Neighborhood Planning Council 4 - Northeast

NPC 4 MINUTES 2.19.2020 7:00 members: Brice Kerschen, David Salerno, Deondra Ramsey, Mary Lusk, JP Wilson, Mary Conklin, Kelly Dillman, Kim Yarger, Chuck Yarger guests: Brad Gentry, Roger Koning, Amanda Wilson, Joe Hooper, Quincy Jones, Brian Sturdivant, Theresa Yeck, Terris Todd, BCFD: Fire chief Sturdivant and fire marshal Quincy Jones distributed handout and gave a presentation on arson and suspicious fire. There have been four incidents in npc 4 over the past two years, compared with 11 in npc 2 and 12 in npc 3 mainly with vacant and abandoned homes. It is an effort by the fire dept to get neighbors to communicate with them if they have information that could help solve and stop this emerging problem. Kim mentioned mail carriers as sources of information on housing conditions. Claude Evans Park splash pad: Kelly Dillman distributed handout and along with pastor Hooper and officer Gentry. made the case to build a splash pad at CEP. They are trying to raise $50,000 to receive a matching grant. Total fund goal is $150,000 raised in a time frame of March to mid May, with construction and completion by June 19, 2020 in time for the Juneteenth family day celebration. Nov minutes approved. BCPD: Brice went over last month's crime report; car accidents and domestic assaults up. Discussed pending law where a prosecutor can make a case without a complaint (domestic assault) if they feel the need. Related thwarting an arson attempt on Merritt St. by distinguishing the fire and following tracks to the suspect who confessed. Quincy added that these fires have the potential for injury to firefighters plus reducing neighboring property values. This will be Brice's last meeting as our npc officer as he is transferring to the gang suppression unit. BCPS: Theresa talked up Fremont Academy and the stem center( 6-7-8) in the HS. WK prep HS (alternative 9-12) focus on the core curriculum and summer school for students needing credit for graduation. Deondra discussed the summer school program schedule, elementary 8:30-4:30, HS 7:30- 12:00, middle school 7:30-3:00 to help retain knowledge and for HS credit recovery. Chuck was disappointed with the quality of the BCC follies this year and argued for an instrumental music program like they had in the past. Theresa responded they are developing a partnership with the BCBB to work with the kids. Historic commission: Binder Building demolition delayed in hope of preservation. JP felt his vote of approval led to his dismissal as a member. Quincy commented on the historic quality of fire stations and their importance to a neighborhood. next door ap: Residents voiced disappointment with the city's lack of communication concerning the water main break and boil water advisory. Could've posted something cautionary earlier than they eventually did. comments: Kim explained their absence on health issues. Would like a card of appreciation for Brice from our npc. Mary Conklin found the meeting interesting and informative. Kelly is not at BCPD since Oct. Plans on staying active with prep for splash pad. Mary Lusk looking forward to the First Presbyterian Church's rib fest and summer programs returning. Pastor Hooper encouraged us to share info on the splash pad with neighbors. Todd gave handout on Community Action programs. Would like to make a presentation in the future. adjourn 8:45 next meeting 3.18.2020