2011 Board Minutes
DAVIS ISLAND CIVIC ASSOCIATION MTG—JAN 4, 2011
In attendance: Walter Hill, Denise Cassedy, Patt Fosnaught, JeanneWolfe
Janice Davis, Charner Reese, Bill Kilbourn, Steve Stanley, Christan Fadal,
Lisa DiVitto, Bill Besselieu, Antonio Armadeo,Taylor Ward, Leslie Stein
Guests: Harold Moore, Andrew Ledford, Julie Jenkins Meeting was called to order at the Davis Island Tennis Facility.
No Crime Watch Report from the Police Department. Harold reported that the Neighborhood was quiet
over the holidays. Harold thanked the Board for his award.
Minutes were approved with minor corrections…they will be sent to Ken for “posting.”
We were visited by Julie Jenkins who is running for City Council Dist 4, which includes DI .
Treasurer’s Report–Cristan reported we have $11,937 in the bank. $480 in the Building for Tomorrow designation. We have 233 members. Taylor moved that the Treasurers report be approved, Charner seconded it…the Report was approved.
Election of officers– Lisa moved that we elect the same officers that served last year. Patt seconded that
motion and the motion passed.
THAN—No report, THAN did not meet over the holidays.
Annual Meeting Report-
Thanks to Denise for organizing the meeting and thanks to Janice for managing the polls and counting the votes.
Newsletter–Bill is hoping to have help with the Newsletter this year, he will speak to Mark Paris.
Stewardship–Charner announced that the next meeting will Mon, Jan 25, at 6:30 at the HCC Building.
Membership–Bill Kilbourne is going to work as the head of the Membership Committee.
Discussion was held about the value of e-mail blasts, certainly a valuable tool for communicating with our community. Denise or Walter can preview drafts of “Blasts.”
Charner reminded us of the importance of defining and establishing our goals. We need to remain focused on what we wish to accomplish.
Christan moved that we allocate $400 to help fund the Candidates Meet + Greet Feb 9th; that was passed.
Calendar–We shall continue with meetings on the 1st Tues of the month, 7 pm at the Tennis Courts. In 2011 we shall try to have a Dec. meeting. We shall meet in June, but not July. Karen Palas has allowed us to use 2 drawers in the closet of the Tennis Facility, for storage.
Jessica Perez has advised us that the City shall waive part of the fees for the Ice Cream Social. We need to schedule that for May 1st or May 15th. 90 days ahead?
Committee Heads–It appears that all committees will be covered.
Meeting was adjourned. Jeanne Wolfe
DAVIS ISLAND CIVIC ASSOCIATION MTG—Feb 1, 2011
In attendance: Walter Hill, Denise Cassedy, Patt Fosnaught, JeanneWolfe,Ken Elmore
Janice Davis, Charner Reese, Bill Kilbourn, Steve Stanley, Cristan Fadal, Dottie Womble
Lisa Devitto, Bill Besselieu, David Whigham, Antonio Amadeo,T.J King, Leslie Stein
Guests: Harold Moore, Andrew Ledford Meeting was called to order at the Davis Island Tennis Facility.
Crime Watch Report from the Police Department: Shift Commander, Continuing problem with cars left unlocked and high end bikes stolen out of open garage doors. There was a robbery at the 7- Eleven; thief was caught (unarmed). Board again reiterated to the officer our concerns about the crosswalk at the foot of the bridge. Officer was asked to follow up on possible drug dealing on Danube. For rapid response, District 1 should be contacted.
Minutes were approved with minor corrections…they will be sent to Ken for “posting.”
Treasurer’s Report–Cristan reported we have $12,711.03 in the bank. We took in $773 and we had $135.21 for expenses. We will have expenses for the Feb 16 Candidates Forum. Ken moved that the Treasurers report be approved, Steve seconded it…the Report was approved.
THAN—The neighborhood organization had a representative from the Hillborough County Humane Society come and discuss the challenge of the prolific feral cat population. There are lots of cats dumped and abandoned on Davis Islands.
On Feb. 9 there will be a “Meet and Greet” for mayoral and city council candidates.
Social—Denise has been in contact with the city to obtain confirmation for the date of the Ice Cream Social and our use of the Yacht Basin Facility.
Andrew Ledford proposed “Movies in the Park” perhaps at the Apex. We could sell water and popcorn, it would be a plus for the community. Patt mentioned parking at the apex would be a problem. Another location might be the airport area, or in the city parks. Bill reminded us we would need to see if our liability insurance would cover these events. Perhaps we could sponsor them every two months, other communities have done this type of event successfully.
Newsletter–Bill reminded us of upcoming events: April 9 is Islands Fest. May 1st is the Ice Cream Social. The ads were a successful source of income.
Web Site—Everything is currently updated and we have impressive interest and results:350 page view in January. Perhaps we can use web site as a method of polling residents about various issues. Bill mentioned it might be used to actually “join” the association, we would need a pay pal account.
Stewardship–Charner announced that this committee is working to other associations to achieve its goals. There shall be four quarterly meetings and she seeks to involve other board members, it is a long term commitment.
Zoning—Steve said there is a request for a variance on 171 Barbados to reduce the front setbacks from 25 feet to 10 feet. Lisa suggested it would be appropriate for Andrew Ledford to leave the room since it is his request. Walter was not properly served with a notice for this request; do we wish to waive this requirement? No.
Front yard set-backs are an important issue; historically we have supported the existing laws and requirements.
Walter asked Steve to call tomorrow to check on the review meeting, and attend if necessary. It would be a good idea to see if all the neighbors are supportive of the change. Lisa moved to have Steve call the city and follow up; Cristan seconded it; and it was approved.
Building Tomorrow—Hope to have 2-3 paid events; hoping for one sponsored event. New focus shall be ”Legacy Donors.” Committee meeting to be held in early March (3/7 or 3/8).
Membership–Bill Kilbourne is working on the membership rolls, he plans to approach new island residents to join our organization. It was voted to allocate $300 for supplies to Membership to promote joining.
Green Initiatives—T. J King proposed a “Davis Islands Clean-Up Day.” We need to encourage more walking and he suggested the placement of more bike racks. He plans to “man” a booth at Islands Fest.
Code Enforcement—David explained that Davis Islands is not a Deed Restricted neighborhood; therefore there are not a lot of “Rules.” David felt it would behoove us to get to know our neighbors so if a problem does arise, it can be more easily dealt with. Charner suggested an article to that effect in the Newsletter might be a good idea.
Traffic Calming–Antonio advised us of the upcoming year-long closure of the Platt Street Bridge (that bridge at the end of Bayshore, near Publix). This will cause huge backups, especially when the shifts change at TGH. Antonio is trying to meet with Steve Valdez to see if a plan can be
established to deal with this looming traffic crises.
Antonio is also working on the “cross walk” issue, it is of continued concern.
The Candidate Forum is scheduled for Feb 16 at the Garden Club, we need hosts and food.
Meeting was adjourned. Jeanne Wolfe
DAVIS ISLAND CIVIC ASSOCIATION MTG—MAY 3, 2011
In Attendance: Walter Hill, Cristan Fadal, Denise Cassedy, Jeanne Wolfe,
Charner Reese, Bill Kilbourn, TJ King, Bill Besselieu
Taylor Ward, Leslie Stein, Steve Stanley
Guests: Harold Moore, Andrew Ledford,
Crime Watch Report from Officer Steven Lee from the Tampa Police Department. Andrew Ledford reported that he called several times for the police (Shift Leader) to address the drug sales on Danube….investigation is under way.
Steven asked what is being built south of the bridge. It is a solar warning light. Officer suggested we call “Traffic Engineering” regarding our issues with the bridge crosswalk. Antonio advised him that we are following up with the appropriate city departments.
Minutes from April were approved.
Treasurer’s Report– The Report was approved.
THAN—Patt not at meeting but she submitted a Report on line of the recent THAN Mtg that Bill Buckhorn attended.
Ice Cream Social–Great success, many thanks to Denese for all of her work.
Green Initiatives–The Great American Clean-Up Day is Sat April 16 from 9-12. Davis Islands had 75 volunteers, estimated 1500 lbs of trash removed. Girl Scouts and Cub Scouts helped, maybe next time volunteers can be recruited from Plant HS.
Stewardship–Meeting next Thurs night at HCC to continue working on three projects: (1) Relocation of the dangerous crosswalk (2) Restoring the Roy Jenkins Pool (3) Making the Village more pedestrian friendly, with an overlay plan to facilitate that goal.
Membership–Bill Kilbourne worked at the Ice Crème Social. He has 11 checks from new/renewing members.
Parliamentarian–There was further discussion about the procedure to appeal zoning and variance requests.
Cristan stated that we need notice if someone is going to come before us with a request. Andtrew felt we should have a written procedure on our website. DICA does not usually become involved unless the neighbors complain, or a request overtly challenges the precedents we have established in the past. Andrew again reiterated his feeling that the procedure needs to have “transparency.”
Charner, Leslie, Steve and Jeanne met to work on and finalize the procedure, draft was submitted.
Pool Update—Cristan shared with us some of the items suggested in the $159,000 study that was proposed.
What they want (that we like): One level deck; Elevator where present desk is, this is a handicapped requirement; Moving the actual entrance of the pool
Recommendations (that we do not like):Reduce the length of the lap lanes; Make shallow throughout; Have two pools; Have games and animations
We support a Basic Pool….it will cost less money, and open sooner. Wiring and plumbing will be installed for heating at a later date.
City Council will be shortly evaluating the 2012 Budget….we need to put pressure on the mayor and city council to have the city include our Pool in the budget.
Movies in the Park–The viewing of “Tangled” was a great success, there was an impressive turnout. Kudos to Andrew for all his work. It may be getting too warm for movies until the Fall.
Building Tomorrow–Tampa Bay Magazine will have an article in next issue about the pool. There will be a short 5-23 Meeting. Save the Date: Oct 15 for Blues and Barbeque at the Curtis Hixson Park!
Meeting was adjourned. Jeanne Wolfe
DAVIS ISLAND CIVIC ASSOCIATION MTG—JUNE 7, 2011
In Attendance: Walter Hill, Cristan Fadal, Jeanne Wolfe,
Charner Reese, Bill Kilbourn, TJ King, Lisa DiVitto, Leslie Stein
Taylor Ward, Steve Stanley, Antonio Armadeo
Guests: Harold Moore, Sandra Lake
Holiday Runs–Girls on the Run–A New Balance Event Dec. 10, hope fore 150 to 200 participants.
A discussion followed as to the best route for a “Run.”
Crime Watch Report from Officer from Lt. M. Palmieri of the Tampa Police Department. Several B+E auto thefts (cars are not being locked); some bike thefts; and several domestic disputes.
Minutes from May were approved with changes.
Treasurer’s Report– The Report was approved.
THAN—Not available
Green Initiatives–T. J. will contact the city to obtain more trash cans along the Trail. There is concern that folks are not keeping their dogs on a leash while running on the Trail. Lisa will draft a letter to the Chief of Police, it would fall under her jurisdiction.
Stewardship–Meeting in May. The committee has continued working on several projects. It has recommended that the TPD test to check the volume and speeds at the dangerous crosswalk at the foot of the Bridge. Gary Brown’s letter to the Mayor was sent out to our membership.
Membership–Bill Kilbourne has continued to receive more memberships.
Land Use/Zoning–Steve Stanley the new protocol for appealing to our board for support of variance requests will go on our Web-Site.
Parliamentarian–Not available.
Pool Update—Continue to support a Basic Pool….it will cost less money, and open sooner. Wiring and plumbing could be installed for heating at a later date.
There will be a June 16, 2011… 5:30 to 7:30 Meeting at the Garden Club to gain public input and review the various design concepts
Building Tomorrow—Bill Sharpe has reported excellent interest in our Oct 15 Blues and Barbeque at the Curtis Hixson Park!
Meeting was adjourned. Jeanne Wolfe
DAVIS ISLAND CIVIC ASSOCIATION MEETING 8-2-2011 @ SLICE RESTAURANT
In Attendance: Walter Hill, Cristan Fadal, Jeanne Wolfe, Mark Paris, Lisa DeVitto,Dottie Womble, Janice Davis, Charner Reese, TJ King, Taylor Ward, Leslie Stein, Steve Stanley, Ken Elmore Patt Fosnaught
The Meeting was held at Slice because of the National Night Out, sponsored by the City of Tampa Police Department, as well as The Taste of Davis Islands. This well attended event was held in the DI business district from 5-8 pm. Since the DICA was also a co-sponsor of this event, the meeting was held at Slice. Lisa DeVitto reported that as of 7pm, attendance was excellent….all 250 “Passports” had been distributed.
No Crime Watch Report from the Tampa Police Department.
Minutes from June were approved after adding Dottie Womble and Mark Paris to the list of those in attendance.
Treasurer’s Report– The Report indicated there was $3040.41 in income year to date, the total in the two accounts is currently $11,481.69. Dottie moved that the report be approved, Charner seconded that approval; the Report was approved.
Land Use–It was explained that there has been some controversy in the Blanca neighborhood. There was a petition for a new fence to be built; that petition was withdrawn. The fence was subsequently built: a 6 foot fence with a lattice at the top a total of 7 feet. The fence was approved by the city “Administratively.”
The city feels that this type of fence has been done often enough that it has established a precedent.
The DICA did not receive any notice, because it was not a variance procedure. We would like the City to clarify their policy and position on this type of issue.
THAN–Patt reported that the THAN group was addressed by Ms.Chauncia Willis who is the Emergency Coordinator. Ms Willis stressed that individuals should prepare ahead of time and use the public shelters as a last resort. There will be a Special Needs Shelter available.
Patt attended the City meeting regarding the Platt Street Bridge crossing. It appears the bridge will be closed for a year.
Web Site–Ken asked us to give him as much notice as possible for the posting of articles and stories.
Green Initiatives–T.J. called the City since we have still not received the additional trash cans he has requested along the Trail. The Coastal Clean-Up day is scheduled Sept 17, maybe we can get the Yacht Club involved. It was suggested we post it on our Web site.
Stewardship Team–Charner announced that the next meeting is next Tues night (September 13) at HCC at 6:15 pm to continue working on implementation of the three projects: (1) Complete Streets evaluation for the boulevards, (2)Restoration funding for the Roy Jenkins Pool (3) Creation of a form-based code for the Village/Main Street to protect and enhance the pedestrian friendly environment. .
Membership–Bill Kilbourne out of town.
Parliamentarian–Leslie had nothing to report
Pool Update–Cristan and Charner reported that it appears that there are now four neighborhood pools that are competing for the $6.5 million that should be available through the Community Investment Tax. The Board voted to support funding for restoring the pool without the extras, per the report by the Committee to Save Roy Jenkins Pool. This will result in the pool restoration being far less costly, and hopefully the pool will open sooner. Leslie felt we should try to get repairs to our pool in stages. It appears that $2.5 M would work for a very basic restoration. Lisa felt that the necessary “Operating” Budget is also a factor for consideration for the costs of the various pools.
The Board directed the members of the committee to meet with elected officials before the public budget hearing. The hearing is September 7, at City Hall.
Building Tomorrow–Charner reminded the Board to Save the Date: Oct 15 for Blues and Barbeque at the Curtis Hixson Park! All net excess funds will go to the Pool Restoration Project. We need more volunteers and sponsors for the event. More pertinent information is available at BluzandBBQ.com.
Nominating–Janice suggested we start thinking about friends and neighbors who might want to serve on our Board.
It appears that many employees of TGH use the TGH Park as a Smoking Area not a Green Space. Janice will work on a letter to the Hospital administration.
Davis Islands Sign–Discussion was held and it was considered a prudent decision to relocate the sign. Charner moved that the sign be moved, Patt seconded that resolution. It was passed unanimously. It was also voted to obtain a new more appropriate sign. Ken will work on getting a new “Historic” sign.
Our General Membership meeting will be scheduled for November….2nd Tuesday.
Meeting was adjourned. Jeanne Wolfe
DAVIS ISLAND CIVIC ASSOCIATION MEETING November 1, 2011
In Attendance: Walter Hill, Cristan Fadal, Jeanne Wolfe, Dottie Womble, T. J King, Leslie Stein, Steve Stanley, Bill Besselieu, Bill Killbourn, Denise Cassedy
Guests: Bill Sharpe, Harold Moore
Crime Watch Report from the Tampa Police Department – Officer Turner
There were very few calls in October. Four calls were connected with Tampa General Hospital. There were three calls associated with the condo at 2 Adalia. There were unlocked cars burglarized.
There was an incidence of IRS tax fraud. Two Hudson Manor residents were victimized. Fraudulent tax returns were filed in order to get refund checks.
The officer then discussed a shooting that took place at a bar at 2408 Kennedy.
Treasurers Report-Cristan reports that we are breaking even for the year, all our mailings have gone out within our Budget.
Membership-The membership mailing went out this week. Bill reports that he has had two responses already. He will also have a “Membership Table” at our General Meeting.
General Meeting will be held next Tuesday.
Who has the big banner? Walter will put it up. Do we have a budget for food and refreshments?
Ken will contact the Sweet Bay representative for a possible donation. The bank will probably donate water. We need table cloths, cups and glasses.
Janice shall tabulate the Ballots.
Blues and Barbecue- Bill Sharpe reported the event was a great success: an excellent turnout of approximately 7000 guests. The goal was to raise $20,000 for the pool. Regretfully, this goal was not met. Somewhere between $6000 and $12,000 was raised for the pool. The city was very impressed with our event. The city officials said we may use the park for two more events this upcoming year.(2012).
Pool Report- The pool should be open in early 2013. The city has $1.6 million designated for the pool. The city wishes to include our $500,000 in the $1.6 million. We would like to have $1.6 million in addition to the $500,000.
Remember to show up for the general meeting at 6 PM to help “set up.” The doors will open at 6:30 PM.
Meeting was adjourned. Jeanne Wolfe
DAVIS ISLAND CIVIC ASSOCIATION MEETING December 6, 2011
In Attendance: Walter Hill, Cristan Fadal, Jeanne Wolfe, Dottie Womble, T. J King, Leslie Stein, Steve Stanley, Bill Besselieu, Bill Killbourn, Denise Cassedy, Antonio Amadeo, Taylor Ward, Charner Reese, Jeannine Wish-Yeko, Carol Rubin, Debbie Zomermaand, Janice Davis
Guest: Dan Pepper, William Porth (from City of Tampa)
Meeting was called to order by Pres. Walter Hill. Everyone introduced themselves, and new
Board members were welcomed.
Traffic-Antonio introduced William Porth . Mr. Porth is from the City Transportation Dept. He informed us that the city is finally changing the crosswalk at the south end of the Davis Islands Bridge. It will be done in stages. He left us information on the plan.
Minutes from the Nov 1, 2010 meeting were approved.
Mailings have gone out for Membership, Newsletter, and the Board Nominations.
Treasurers Report-Cristan reports that $5320.38 was brought in thus far as income (dues, ad revenue, and
donations). After $2932.93 in expenses….our net is $2387.45.
Slate of Officers: Walter Hill as President, Denise Cassidy as Vice President, Cristan Fadal, as Treasurer, and Jeanne Wolfe as Secretary. They were unanimously elected.
Our 2012 Goals were Reviewed and need to be approved by the Board. They were read by Charner Reese:
The mission of the Davis Islands Civic Association is to provide effective leadership on issues important to residents in a manner that protects and enhances the quality of life of the Davis Islands community.
Goals:
1. We are visible in our community.
2. We provide valuable information to residents.
3. We work in concert with other community organizations to protect and enhance our community’s quality of life.
4. We are a focus for community social functions and activities.
5. We are a central point of communication for residents through our website and newsletter.
6. We are a unified voice to local government on behalf of the community, including on issues relating to land use policy and governance.
7. We are a unified force for spearheading community improvement projects, identifying and seeking completion of at least one project per year.
8. We are known for our annual fall association meeting, which is both an informative and enjoyable gathering and a celebration of our community’s accomplishments.
9. We promote membership in the organization, seeking a membership of over fifty percent of the community’s residents.
10. We pursue community involvement through such events as workshops, design charettes and town hall meetings on topics of interest to residents
Pool Goal- The pool should be open in early 2013.
Discussion of Goals: Steve questioned the various Code Enforcement points we should be alert for in the future. T.J. inquired about the exact protocol regarding the Board’s role in Zoning and Land use issues.
Should issues be brought to the Board or the committee chairman?
Committee Roles
The committees shall continue with the same leadership. New Board members shall work as assisstants on various committees, ie. Debbie Zomermaand shall help with Land Use/Zoning
Carol Rubin will take over the Web Page; Debbie will also help with Traffic; Jeannine Wish-Yeko will help with the Pool Project. We are hopeful Andrew will lead Code Enforcement.
Movies in the Park-A program we support. Cristan felt it might be a “Social Committee” responsibility.
Could the City forego the Fire marshal and Permit costs?
Next Board Meeting is Jan 3, 2012.
Meeting was adjourned. Jeanne Wolfe
