Oct. 7, 2006 6:30 PM
Called to order by President Harold Cline
Discussed speeding/traffic concerns as related to Coney and other streets in the historic neighborhood.
Discussed situation at Duncan and Highland:
Members reported that 2 different towing trucks (Speedy & Elite) are using Coney St. as access to the Duncan property. It was also reported that the property may be slated as a bail bandsman�s office when completed. The Zoning Board and Building Inspector is aware of the issue and is taking initiative to curb development.
Crime:
Members voiced concern over criminals being present in the future as well as current problems with fleeing criminals hiding in yards as they attempt to evade police. Members want the property to be monitored closely to prevent future problems.
Zoning:
Melanie Gunn reported that City officials admitted that many properties that have been conditionally rezoned should be reverted to residential, but the city has no system in place to track these properties.
Loud Music:
Much concern was expressed about loud music being played by passing cars. Rick Gunn stated that the city simply needs to enforce the laws already on the books. Jody Fulgum recommended that residents make a concerted effort to report both speeders and loud music to the police so that they will be made aware of just how bad the situation is. He said that the �squeaky wheel gets the greasel.� Harold Cline pointed out that city police cars must be visible for at least 500 feet when cheecking for speeders.
Closing Coney St. Access:
Members were agreeable to closing the street at Academy. Melanie Gunn reported that there are many safety considerations that must be addressed when deciding to close a street. She has been in contact w/the city manager and others about the issue and they are concerned about access for emergency services. Others suggested simply adding 4-way stops at all intersections in the district so that we didn�t have to close a street. However, they were not convinced that this would solve the current problems. Harold Cline recommended a six month trial period for closing the street using movable barricades. This was well received by those present. Some suggested that a radio controlled gate could be installed so that emergency traffic could access Coney prior to arriving at the gate. Questions arose about the vacant bus lot being used for access b/c it was thought to belong to the city. Mr. Arnold reported that it is a privately owned property. M. Gunn said that she had been told there was a possibility of S.P.L.O.S.T. money paying for a new road that would incorporate �soft turns� to discourage traffic.
