I. Mark Brandon called the meeting to order at 7:05PM. 31 neighbors were in attendance.
II. Justin [last name?] was voted in as the new Treasurer to replace outgoing Treasurer Davis Barry.
III. Joy gave the Treasurer’s report:
- Beginning Balance: $4,527.15 ($704.98 stipend)
- Deposits: $20.00
- Withdrawals: $83.52
- End Balance: $4,463.63 ($705.00 stipend)
IV. Parke Richeson with Maymont advertised the African American experience exhibit. For additional information or to see the flyer, please email info@maymontcivicleague.org or visit Maymont Park.
V. Allison Andrews spoke on behalf of the Monroe Park Conservancy. She spoke about the Friends of Monroe Park organization which is an organization that is fully self-funded and has many projects that they would like to do. She encouraged donations to that group and also encouraged the group to visit the park to see all of the features in it. The Portal will be in Monroe Park through March and hours can be found on sharedstudios.com/Richmond
VI. In honor of Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, Mark read a Martin Luther King, Jr. quote and neighbor Jennifer Edwards said a prayer.
VII. Jennifer Mullins with the Navy Hill Development Team gave an update on the Navy Hill project. Her presentation included the new map of the mixed-use development showing the current plans and potential tenants. There is a bill currently in the House of Delegates involving a proposed sale tax for that area. Currently, City Council has held its last public comment and they have reviewed third party consultant reports. City Council will vote on the project on February 24.
VIII. Neighbor Ida Cheatam is celebrating her 100th birthday and the group voted to donate towards her birthday party on February 1.
IX. Chris Liesfield reported back to the group regarding his property covering parts of Greenville and Carter. He is now going to donate the land to a conservation easement and with the exception of his house which will be built on Carter Street, the rest of the property will not be developed. Former Councilman Parker was there on behalf of the conservatory to answer questions. Chris is planning to purchase parts of the west side Carter Street alleyway from the City so that the entire property can be donated to the conservatory.
X. Neighbor Leslie spoke up against the Navy Hill project and encouraged opposed neighbors to sign her petition.
XI. Stephanie Lynch and Amy Robbins spoke about the Navy Hill project and mentioned the tremendous amount of pressure Councilmen have experienced regarding this proposed project.
XII. Todd Woodson of the Oregon Hill Civic League spoke to the group about his work with the Monroe Park tree ordinance. The canopy of trees is a protected asset and his group is working to have it be restored.
XIII. The meeting adjourned at 9:08PM.