Meeting Tonight on Neighborhood Communication @ Bloomingfoods

Posted on October 24, 2011 by sarah

I want to invite you to a meeting of the NWSNA Communications Team – a working group that will discuss ways to share information between community members about local news, issues, and events. We’ll be meeting at 5pm at the west Bloomingfoods, at 316 W 6th St, on Monday, October 24.

We’d like to have a robust group that can help with finding relevant information and creating content to share. Do you have a great story of the pet you adopted at the local shelter? Is there an issue at the local elementary school (Fairview) that you’d like more people to know about? Are you performing a local music concert or does your organization need volunteers for a special event? This is a place to share that kind of info!

On the agenda:

  1. Discussion of survey results on how we communicate with the neighborhood, as well as input from attendees.
  2. How can we reach members who are not online? Monthly newsletter?
  3. Who can regularly (once a month) contribute to the blog/newsletter? I think 4 people per month would be a healthy start. VERY open to different topics and ideas. Photos are desired!
  4. Brainstorm ideas of what to share on the website, twitter, email list. Some ideas:

Hope to see you there! Please post a comment or email us if you’re interested and have specific skills or thoughts you’d like to share.

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Updates From Last Night’s October Meeting

Posted on October 19, 2011 by sarah

Thank you to Veda for taking these meeting notes!

We spent most of the meeting time discussing the Habitat Project. There are a variety of opinions about this. There does seem to be a consensus that at least saving a contiguous strip of undisturbed green space would be great. It remains to be seen how infrastructure and the site itself will support construction on the property. Until we have more information about what Habitat is able to do, we will wait and see. There is a contingent of people who still believe that if the site turns out to be undevelopable, the City might yet be pressured into buying the land. Other people feel that the City has no interest in this land, that this development will precede and it would behoove us to cooperate with Habitat and have some input into how the development proceeds. It was a spirited discussion in the democratic tradition of people forcefully sharing their opinions. We are grateful for democracy.

We discussed the need to recruit more participants into the NWNSA. We also need to form a committee to nominate a slate of officers for the spring election. Sophia Hauserman has offered to chair the Nominating Committee (which we hope will also serve as a recruitment tool!) Current officers are not allowed to be on the nominating committee, so we are asking people to volunteer to help Sophia with this task. Please contact Sophia at 332-5556 to support her.

Veda asked people what they thought about amending the NWSNA Constitution to create an executive committee to run the association, instead of the officers that we currently have. Bill Baus made a convincing argument in favor of keeping the current system and there was consensus that Bill was right about this. (The Constitution will be posted on the Near West Side website sometime in the next few days.)

We decided that it would be a good idea to have a party in place of the November meeting. We will post a flyer about this in the next week. All are welcome, regardless of how involved you want to be in the neighborhood – the idea is to build our sense of community and togetherness, and it will be a family-friendly event.

The party will be Monday, November 21st at 7:00 at Bill Baus’ house at the west end of 8th Street. It will be a pitch-in for snacks, with the NWNSA providing drinks. Mark your calendar!

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Updates from Last Night’s August Meeting

Posted on August 23, 2011 by sarah

We had a great meeting last night with a wonderful turnout of new and old members. Thank you to Sandi Clothier for hosting and sharing some delightful strawberries, cookies, and guac! And thanks to everyone who came and shared their thoughts on how to improve our community. Here are the notes from last night, typed up by Veda.

Elder Issues

Sophia Hauserman invited elders to a breakfast meeting at the Kirkwood Café on Wednesday, September 14th  at 8:30am.  She also informed us about an upcoming workshop on Community Development for Enhancing the Lives of Older Hoosiers to be held in Indy on September 6&7.

For more information contact Sophia at sofyhaus@sbcglobal.net.

Yard Sale

The NWSNA yard sale is set for this coming Saturday, August 27 from 8-1.  Brennan, the owner of Time Flies Antique Gallery at 729 W. Kirkwood and Chris and Carol from Sublime Design attended the meeting and they want to participate in the yard sale as well.  We will add them to the 9 homes that will be in the yard sale.  Look for signs and flyers and an ad in the H.T,

Veda will handle the publicity and Steven Janowiecki will help place signs.

Grants Available

Sandi Clothier talked about grants that are available for businesses along the West Kirkwood corridor and the need for our neighborhood to support our local businesses.

Downtown Businesses

Barry Wallock spoke about an opportunity to have Talisha Coppock to attend our next NWSNA meeting to get our ideas about the kinds of businesses our neighborhood would like to see downtown.  Veda will invite reps from both the Prospect Hill NA and Maple Heights NA to attend our next meeting and share in the discussion with Talisha.

 

Welcome New Neighbors

Sophia Hauserman is going to contact Vickie Provine at HAND and order “welcome” magnets for neighbors to give to new people moving into our neighborhood this fall.  Sophie will coordinate with neighbors to deliver the magnets.

Neighborhood Planning

Our Councilman, Chris Sturbaum, attended the meeting and updated us on the EcoVillage.  He also inspired a great discussion about creating a “neighborhood plan” to define our vision for our neighborhood and identify issues to be handled.  This is a lengthy process and we will be meeting in a small group to plan for how to organize the larger process.  Barry, Brennan, Veda and Sandi will meet soon to begin the discussion.

Chris also told us that the Growth Policies Plan will be updated soon and this is an important process that neighborhoods can be involved with.  We will need to make sure to have NWS neighbors in on these discussions about our vision for the growth of our city.

By Law Updates

Bill Baus will head a committee to look at needed by law revisions.  He will convene a committee soon.

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Sustainability News from Jacqui Bauer, Sustainability Coord, City of Bloomington

Posted on July 13, 2011 by sandi

The recent heat means lots of people are running the A/C, which means peak loads for local power plants. You can help reduce peak loads by participating in Duke Energy’s Power Manager program–they pay you a one-time fee of $25-35 for the ability to notch the energy use of your air conditioner down during peak times, and pay you an additional credit every time they do so. I’ve used this service for a couple of years and have never noticed a difference in performance, so it can be done with minimal impact on comfort. See here for more information: http://www.duke-energy.com/indiana/savings/power-manager.asp

Upcoming events

Bloomington Food Policy Council Meeting July 14 – Help finalize the mission of the BFPC and hear what the working groups have been up to. Thursday, July 14th at 6:30 in City Hall’s McCloskey Room.For more information contact Stephanie Solomon at stephanie@mhcfoodpantry.org or Michael Simmons at simmonsm@bloomington.in.gov.

USGBC webinar on energy efficiency July 14 – This webinar series gives an introductory look at LEED and its uses for achieving green buildings and the processes involved. This is for anyone with an interest in the LEED process, wanting to achieve LEED certification, or concerned citizens looking to improve efficiencies globally. For 1.5 GBCI or AIA/CES hours. 4-6pm, at 908 W 8th St, in Bloomington’s only Platinum-certified home! For more info see the calendar here: http://www.gnnbloomington.com/?page_id=82

WIndiana and the Indiana Renewable Energy Conference July 20-21 -This conference will feature workshops on renewable energy possibilities at both small and large scales. See http://www.in.gov/oed/2629.htm for more information.

Bloomington Sierra Club monthly meeting July 25th – The next monthly meeting of the local Sierra Club will take place on Monday July 25 in Monroe County Public Library – Room #1B from 7:00pm to 8:30pm. Contact thomas.mooradian@att.net for more information.

Film screening: Bicycle Dreams, July 31 – Bicycle Dreams, the award-winning film about Race Across America, will be shown at the Buskirk-Chumley theater on Sunday, July 31 at 7 p.m.. The film was recently named by two cycling mags as the greatest cycling film since Breaking Away. http://www.bicycledreamsmovie.com/ for more information.

Hub Ride for the Hungry, August 13 - The Hub Ride for the Hungry is a bike ride you don’t want to miss! Starting in Karst Farm Park the various rides take you through the rolling hills of southern Indiana and offer spectacular views. The event offers rides for bikers of all levels from novice to nuts. All rides start and finish at Karst Farm Park. Proceeds from the ride go to support MHC’s pantry and education programs. 8am – 2pm. For more info, visit http://events.r20.constantcontact.com/register/event?llr=tc4e7sdab&oeidk=a07e3t4c637b1526936

Training

Solar PhotoVoltaic (PV) program at the Brown County Career Resource Center August 8-13, 2011

The Brown County Career Resource Center, located in Nashville, IN is offering a week long solar electric workshop. The course is designed for people looking to gain basic knowledge with solar PV technology and provide participants to sit for the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP) PV Entry Level Exam. Students attending the workshop will learn solar PV electricity basics, solar energy fundamentals, PV module fundamentals, PV site assessment, PV system components, PV system sizing, PV system design, working safely with PV and PV markets and applications. The last day 8/13, will be a 1/2 day review to help students prepare for the exam, then the exam will be administered that afternoon. The workshop is taught by NABCEP certified PV installer, Alex Jarvis, solarindiana@yahoo.com.

2011 Citizens Academy accepting applications until July 18 -This free, nine-week program that gives you the opportunity to learn about the challenges of city government, budget limitations, day-to-day operations and mandates in this fun and educational class. The 2011 Citizens’ Academy will meet weekly from August 18 through October 13. The session will be limited to a total of 30 participants to ensure a quality experience for all participants.The deadline for 2011 Citizens’ Academy applications is Monday, July 18, 2011. For an application and further information about Citizens’ Academy contact Vickie Provine at provinev@bloomington.in.gov or 349-3505.

Other Stuff

Simply Living Fair seeking sponsors – The Center for Sustainable Living is pleased to announce that the 2011 Simply Living Fair will be held on Saturday, September 10th in Third Street Park (also known as the Waldron, Hill, and Buskirk Park). They are seeking sponsors and exhibitors, with a goal of raising $1,500 to cover expenses. This is a great chance to showcase your green business or organization to a crowd of eco-minded folks who are willing to spend their dollars where their values are. Booths are available for $25 for businesses and $15 for non-profits, with sponsorship opportunities starting at $80. Please visit http://www.simplylivingfair.org for more information or contact the Center for Sustainable Living at (812) 332-8796.

Help Indiana get more trees with just a few clicks – It’s quick, easy, and free to help get more trees for Indiana by voting online. Each vote results in a $1 donation from Odwalla to the Indiana DNR for planting trees in Hoosier state parks. Last year around $3,400 was raised through this program. With the Emerald Ash Borer killing trees throughout the state, more trees will be needed this year to offset the damage and grow our forests. Visit http://www.odwalla.com/plantatree/ to vote. More information at the DNR site: http://www.in.gov/dnr/parklake/2923.htm

Show tornadoes that they aren’t welcome here!! Donate to the City of Bloomington Tree Fund - During the storms last month, the campus and community lost an estimated 500-700 trees, some of which were 150 years old or more. Help replace these monuments in our green city! Anything you contribute will help send a signal to tornadoes to dissipate into refreshing spring breezes. http://bloomington.in.gov/parkfoundation

ROOMS AVAILABLE IN NEW BLOOMINGTON ECOVILLAGE beginning August 1. – Walking distance to campus. If you are interested in intentional community and sustainable living you may find this to be a very good fit for you! Contact Doug (hanvey@gmail.com) for info.

The City’s Deer Task Force wants to hear from you! - The Deer Task Force is conducting a survey of the community regarding deer in the city. Visit www.surveymonkey.com/s/CDWLSJS to complete the survey.

To Contact the City’s Sustainability Coordinator, Jacqui Bauer, call 812.349.3418, or email bauerj@bloomington.in.gov

Like the Sustainable Bloomington Facebook page! www.facebook.com/pages/Bloomington-Sustainable-City/145658892126390

Join us for the Hoosier to Hoosier Community Sale and the Bloomington Resale Trail! – August 20, 2011, Gladstein Fieldhouse (next to IU Assembly Hall), http://www.indiana.edu/~h2h

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For Rent in Maple Heights

Posted on July 11, 2011 by sandi

MAPLE HEIGHTS FOR RENT

918NMapleSt    $495 / 1br – Charming 1 BR Cottage – Garden, Bus, B-Line Trail – Avail. Aug 15 (Maple Heights)  This 1-bedroom house is a hidden gem for nature-lovers! Perfect for IU grad student or laid-back B-town resident. There is a HUGE backyard with small porch and garden shed and all four sides of the house are beautifully landscaped. There are literally dozens of species of mostly native flowers that bloom all season – you will be constantly impressed by what comes up. It includes a sour cherry tree in the front yard that produces fruit every year, and apple and mulberry trees in the back. Plenty of room for a herb or veggie garden. Trees cover most of house so house stays cool in summer and A/C is not needed, although a big A/C is included with the house and cools it fast. Yard takes around 30-40 minutes to mow, mower included with house. The pictures don’t do it justice, you really must see this house.

Pets allowed on a case-by-case basis with owner’s approval and for a small extra deposit. House includes washer/dryer, A/C, central heating, hardwood floors, full-size fridge, oven, bath and sink. Neighbors are quiet and friendly.

2-car driveway included, but no car is needed to live here. House is right on the 2-West bus line and bus stops right on the end of the block. Also close enough to ride bike into town. House is 4 blocks from the new B-Line Trail into town!

August 15 move-in. Available for immediate showing. Please only contact if you have EXCELLENT references. References will be contacted. Address: 918 N. Maple St. Contact Nejla Routsong at nejlaroutsong@gmail.com.

 

 

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1002 W. Sixth St.

Posted on July 11, 2011 by sandi

$210,000

Great large house with open design.. mostly remodeled… lots of windows, hardwood floors, 2.5 baths. primer paint on the inside… so you need to choose the colors and paint and do some finish work like toestrips if you want them. the loft could sleep three or four and has lots of space. The yard is two or three lots deep. The front is bamboo for privacy it’s 25 ft high now. This house is not quite finished so a mortgage would not be possible… New furnace… Listing on craigslist.

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801 W. Kirkwood

Posted on July 11, 2011 by sandi

$145,00 | MLS# 20112336

Original hardwood flooring throughout, this two bedroom bungalow features an updated fully equipped kitchen (2004), large dining room, living room, and recently converted backroom space (previously a laundry room; all plumbing remains) that could serve as a closet/workspace/or possible second bath. Enjoy the outdoor space of the stone front porch, and the the cozy, fenced-in backyard. The full basement has been segmented off into two rooms, and could easily work as studio space or additional living/storage area.

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1026 W. Kirkwood

Posted on July 11, 2011 by sandi

$127,900 | MLS# 20112667

This adorable bungalow on Bloomington’s near west side has lots of charm and attractive updates. The large rooms of this home are enhanced by high ceilings, hard woods, a covered front porch, and a spacious 2 car garage with off street parking and alley access. The terraced side walk and sun deck have great views of the landscaped backyard. Tasteful decor and wonderful maintenance add to the appeal. Exterior has been updated partially with cement board. Included with sale are: range, washer and dryer, and refrigerator.

 

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June Meeting Minutes

Posted on July 11, 2011 by sandi

Meeting of the Near West Side Neighborhood Association – June 20, 2011- 7pm

For the summer months, we will be meeting at neighbors’ homes; today we met at Bill Baus’ home on W. 8th St.

Present: Wayne Young, Cheryl Sweeney, Glorianne Leck, Bill Baus, Sandi Clothier

Bill Baus called the meeting to order. There were no minutes from the last meeting to approve, so the meeting went directly to Committee Reports.

Traffic Report

Wayne gave the Traffic Committee Report. The NWS has received approval from the Traffic Commission for alternative parking spaces along 7th Street.  Now the proposal goes before the Common Council for first reading.  This will take place on Wednesday, June 29th, at the City Council Chambers, in City Hall, beginning at 7:30pm.  This is part of the seven page Omnibus Parking Legislation which will be brought to council.  This first reading will be just that, a reading, not a vote.  The Council will vote to approve this legislation at a later date, perhaps the following week.  Both meetings are important to show up for, to voice our support.

Wayne also noted that there has been opposition to this initiative, and that Mr. Bavender has been seeking signatures from neighbors to deny this legislation based upon several issues.  A discussion ensued regarding what neighbors know about this initiative; Glorianne Leck reminded the group that this was begun several years ago when the neighborhood petitioned for traffic islands, going door to door to talk with neighbors about the concerns that prompted their action.  But since then the only notice neighbors have received concerning this new initiative were the signs that were put up by the city prior to the first meeting when this was brought forward to the Common Council, and several conversations that individuals have had with their neighbors.  Sandi recommended that we create a flyer and put the information on our website that would counter the arguments being brought forward, and give some clarity to the reasons for asking for this new parking configuration.  It was also recommended that we send letters of support to the Common Council, and that we go to the meeting in person to make sure our voices are heard.

Garden Tour Committee

Glorianne has been working on a Garden Tour of the neighborhood, and has signed up 8 neighbors.  The date will be Saturday, July 9th, from 1-3pm.  From 3-4 , those with gardens on the tour will have a chance to tour the gardens. Several people from other neighborhoods have expressed interest in joining our garden walk.   A discussion regarding signs for the tour followed, and it was decided that simple plain paper stapled to stakes be used and discarded afterwards.

Trees/ Sustainability Committee

Sandi reported on the Sustainability/ tree committee that a review has begun of all the houses in the neighborhood to determine where new trees could be added.  Christine Glaser, Burhan Elturan and Sandi Clothier met on Saturday, June 4th and walked 6th and 7th Streets, looking at each property to assess the room/ space for additional trees.   When this process is complete, a map showing the location of all new tree sites will be posted.  This doesn’t mean that an owner must add a tree, but only that the tree committee felt there was room.   In addition, it was noted that some trees appeared to be in need of either trimming or possible removal, so the committee will contact Lee Huss, the City Arborist, to get his feedback on several specific sites.
After this information has been posted on the website, neighbors wishing new trees for their tree plot may contact the tree committee, which is in touch with the City for trees for the neighborhood.

Habitat Village

Bill reported that he and Sandi met with Carol and Dave Gulyas regarding the Habitat Village.  After the letter to the Editor which outlined the negative effects of locating a low income neighborhood so near an active rail line, several neighbors expressed this as a new concern.  Bill gave a review of the meeting held the previous night, and a discussion followed.  The NWSNA is not opposed to the development of the Habitat Village, but several concerns have been brought forward that a letter to the Planning Department will highlight.  At this point the Planning Department does not have a plan from Habitat, but the NWSNA feels that it needs to express these concerns now rather than waiting for the plan to be formalized, especially since any plan put forward by architects is expensive, so letting the City know the NWS concerns should help the planning department in their negotiations with Habitat.

The letter to planning from the Vice Chair will include the following concerns:

Issues with the development of this property include:

  • Proximity to active RR tracks- noise, both to development and to the entire area if many trees are removed.
  • Keeping density low, not upping the density beyond the 4.5 units per acre allowed on developable land.
  • Tree buffer between development and Butler Park, south, and Maple Heights, north, should be wide enough to keep noise down, allow for as much green space as possible.  Also trees within the development should be kept to keep the area as green as possible.
  • What part of the area is to be developed, what green space will remain?
  • Rest of the green space between the two track lines, now undeveloped, but if this goes through how can we ensure that the rest is not developed?  Does HfH have rights to the rest of the land?
  • City UDO- preserve green space, go with Leed when new building is done (does this apply to new low income, nonprofit residential?)

The meeting ended at 8pm.

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Neighborhood sign restored!

Posted on July 10, 2011 by sandi

A big thank you to our neighbor, David Ferrand, for restoring our neighborhood sign at 6th and Rogers.  The sign was vandalized and David took it down, restored and repainted it and made new caps for the sign.

It looks great, David!  Thank you.

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