Ward 8 NPA

Ward 8 Neighborhood Planning Assembly (NPA): Minutes Thursday, April 24, 2025 Location: Sharon Bushor Conference Room, City Hall Link to Watch Meeting Recording: https://www.youtube.com/live/5V5IhwYa3dw Facilitator: Ryan Nick Others in Attendance: Marek Broderick, Tom Carroll, Maddie Posig, Melo Grant, Anne Brenya, Christa, Amy Molinowski, Steven, Allie Schacter Adopting the Agenda: The motion to adopt the agenda passed. Public Forum: • Christa shared concerns about safety and mobility • Allie Schacter introduced herself as new East District city councilor • Amy is excited about reviving the Ward 8 NPA with others • Maddie likes how other NPAs post their agendas on FPF and have community dinner – they are more robust than ward 8 – we need to do a better job of letting people know about the NPA • Ryan shared that the steering committee is always looking for more help, and thanked outgoing member Stella for her work • Tom discussed the process for NPA agenda setting and how to get more input in the future • Melo shared more about how Ward 2 NPA & community dinner operates, and shared how people can stay updated with the Mayor’s office and community safety forums City Councilor Introductions, Updates, & Feedback: • Allie Schacter is newly elected city councilor – reach out any time. Top priorities are tackling affordability and housing. Feeling optimistic that better days are ahead. • Marek Broderick – 2nd year of term as ward 8 councilor. Wants to improve communication with constituents. • Council updates: o Plan to contract out city recycling service which is terribly understaffed; working with DPW to develop alternate public/private hauling plans and costs. o Update on overdose prevention center – vote on Monday council meeting to approve implementation proposal – slides are available online. Vermonters for Criminal Justice Reform will operate the site Ward 8 NPA Budget Discussion: • Request from Ward 5 for extra budget - $460. Ward 8 has $2500 left over.  • Idea to create a flyer for new residents of ward 8 following redistricting; neighbors can do doorknocking and outreach in those areas • Money does not carry over to the new fiscal year • In the past money has been used for an outreach mailer, materials for the meetings • Motion to send $460 to Ward 5 passes • Marek recommends circulating proposals for spending the budget ahead of the May meeting due to time concerns • Idea to print more NPA zines/posters Community Engagement and May Meeting Preparation: • Agreement to hold meetings over the summer and keep momentum going • Next meeting is May 22 Adjournment: The meeting was adjourned.