Dearborn Federation of Neighborhood Associations

Dearborn Federation of Neighborhood Associations

Meeting Minutes for June 03, 2009

1.               Call to order:

Terry Pulido: Called the meeting to order at 7:32 pm.

Members in Attendance:

            Guests:

2.               Approval of the April minutes.

Mark Lipischak motioned to approve the minutes, Ann Basse seconded. Minutes were approved.

3.               Treasurer’s Report:                                                                                                                                                                                                                                

 Ned Nikodem Presented the treasurer’s report:

                    Beginning  balance                       $899.43
                    Income (Dues)                               + $45.00
                    Expense                                             -0.00
                    Balance as of 06/03/2009                $944.43

 Ned reminded the associations that dues were late and encouraged payment.

4.               Guest Speaker:  Michael Kirk

spoke and gave a slideshow  presentation on “Neighborhoods by Design”.  This presentation is the product  of a design charette conducted by students and professors associated with the American Institute of Architects for their recent convention. The presentation highlighted what makes a good urban living environment, items such as green spaces, mobility, recreation, infrastructure, organization, choice and identity. It was noted that Dearborn ranked highly by having  most of these attributes.

 Mr. Kirk also informed us that he has been working with the City of Dearborn to catalogue architectural elements of each of the city’s unique neighborhoods to be used as a guide for future development. This cataloging has assisted the city in establishing “compatibility” with new construction projects in our neighborhoods. Mike is currently working with the city to help educate residents and developers when compatibility issues arise, and also being proactive in assisting with options before blueprints are drawn and submitted. These “sketch sessions” provide options which saves time, money, frustration and allows for a better fitting structure  for its area.

John Cascardo: John reminded us that the city is still looking for volunteers  for  neighborhood representatives to submit their e-mail or other contact information to allow the police department to notify the responsible person to disseminate information to their neighbors, regarding local crime.

The city is also looking to fill 8 east end commission slots for City Beautiful commission.

John was informed that there is a problem with feline population near Ford Woods.

Dustin Campbell:  Representing Senator Irma Clark-Coleman.    Mr. Campbell provided us with a Guide to Elected officials, state road construction maps and a free discount prescription drug card. The cards allow persons not covered by insurance, prescription drugs at a discount.  Additional information and cards may be obtained at: http://retailers.com/memberservices/rxcard_form.html or call Michigan Retailers Association at 1 800 366 3699.

5.               New Business:

·        June 25 at 10:00am there will be a Blue Star memorial service at the Bryant Library.

·        Dearborn Farm Market Fridays also at the Bryant Library

·        Smooth Jazz concerts at City Hall Park are planned for Wednesday evenings July 22 & 29 and August 12, 19,& 26. Check the city and the East Dearborn
Downtown Development web sites for information. www.cityofdearborn.org  Or  www.eastdowntowndearborn.com

·        “Cruisin Michigan Ave.” second cruise is planned for July 11^th.  The cruise starts in Dearborn and goes to Wayne, MI. This is a charity event and many functions are planned for Dearborn, such as the kick off charity event at the Dearborn Glass Academy on the 10^th. See www.cruisinmichigan.com for more information.

·        Nominate properties for City Beautiful awards at 313 943 2415

·        The 14th Annual Dearborn Arab International Festival is planned for the weekend of the 19^th. see  www.americanarab.com for details.

·        Congratulations to Ann Basse on the rededication of Arthur Basse Park. Arthur Basse was a huge influence on Dearborn , its surrounding residents and many communities in the United States. Mr. Basse was instrumental in establishing The University of  Michigan, Dearborn, & Henry Ford Community College on their present locations. He was a past president of the DFNA, and numerous other civic associations, Mr. Basse used his position at Ford Motor Company, in land development, to establish educational facilities across the nation.  Ann had a role in securing  the property and equipping the playground that honors his name, it is this type of involvement that makes Dearborn a great place to live.

6.               Adjournment:

With there being no further business Rick Fletke motioned for adjournment, Mary Pletchlikoff seconded. Meeting was adjourned at 9:08 PM.

7.               Associations in attendance:

The next meeting will be held in the Mayor's conference room 09/02/2009 @ 7:30 pm. These minutes have been compiled and submitted by Dave Tillman, Secretary DFNA.

http://www.dfna.org