HPCC - January 2002 Meeting Minutes

Meeting Minutes by Ollie Rieley

President Brandon Weber called the meeting to order at 7:35 P.M.

C.O.P. Report: Officer Scalise reported that Zone 5 is looking for input to help determine three "burning" issues that should be addressed for correction. Suggestions were: Problem tenants in Section 8 housing, abandoned houses and garages, graffiti, etc. Residents are invited to call Zone 5 and identify issues to be considered for the list. The phone number of Zone 5 is (412) 665- 3605. Officer Scalise provided crime statistics for October and November. There were some complaints about tow trucks recklessly driving in the neighborhood. Councilman Ferlo mentioned that he had proposed a bill requiring tow truck licensing; he requested residents to promote the bill. It was noted that "At The Park" had closed as a bar and that the lottery, also owned by Dino, had moved into the first floor of "At the Park". In addition, there are plans to sell six packs from the second floor of the building. Councilman Ferlo noted that there are administrative changes being considered for the C.O.P. operation; he suggested the club send a representative to a meeting considering changes, if invited.

Community Development Corporation: Dave Hance, President of the CDC, provided a brief update of current activities of the CDC. They currently have several houses to refurbish. They are following and encouraging business development in the community. Refurbishment of the Park entry fountain and gardens is scheduled to start this summer. The proposal to list the community in the National Register of Historic Places is almost ready to submit. And effort on the community plan is ready to begin in earnest. Ed D'Alessandro has been hired as the coordinator for developing the plan. See separate article.

Councilman Ferlo: Councilman Ferlo suggested that the club send a letter to the city administration supporting placing an office for the CDC in the Farmhouse. He is concerned that some city function might get all the space available in the building by default unless people speak up. He also suggests that the club support the removal of the Quonset hut adjacent to the farm house. With the increased playground size he worries that city traffic to and from the Quonset might be a safety hazard to the children in the playground. Councilman Ferlo announced that his office is granting $5,000 in City funds to the club to help defray expenses of community activities such as the Easter Egg Hunt, the Halloween Parade and the Salsa Party.

Pittsburgh Parks Conservancy: Mary Beth Steisslinger presented a brief overview of the Bioblitz, planned to be held in Highland Park May 17 and 18, 2002. A bioblitz is an educational and scientific even that explores the biodiversity of plant and animal life in a park over a 24 hour period. The results of the Bioblitz are used to lobby for funds to conduct more thorough biological assessments and to conduct ecological restoration in the park. Volunteer help is needed. See separate article for details.

Super Playground: It is noted there still is no chair for this important activity of the club. Brandon will set up a meeting of interested persons to try to reinvigorate this committee. Councilman Ferlo noted that he believes the City should perform routine cleanup and maintenance of the Playground, since it is in the City's park. Councilman Ferlo would like to be included in the meeting.

Commercial District: Kathy Ziegler noted that Food, Glorious Food is doing very well. Current classes are full and they are hiring additional personnel!

Public Safety: Mercine Nefores noted that zone 5 is initiating a gang prevention program.

Meeting adjourned at 9:00 P.M.