June 2006 Minutes

The meeting was called to order at 7:00 PM.

The floor was passed to Officer Mitchell. He stated he came to introduce himself and listen to neighborhood concerns. Some problem areas were discussed, e.g. vacant homes, prostitute hangouts, children on the streets at 10-11 PM, suspected drug houses.
Officer Mitchell took notes of addresses and suspected problems. He stated he would drive by the homes discussed and evaluate the locations visually.

OLD BUSINESS
It was reported that SAND passed the condo construction at the corner of Benteen Way and Boulevard, but with restrictions.
It was stated that we, as the Benteen Park Neighborhood, need to hold the builder accountable for all conditions.
This complex will next go to NPU-W Land Use Committee for a vote. NPU-W meets every 4th Wednesday at 7:30 PM at the East Atlanta Library (located on Flat Shoals Road in the East Atlanta Village).

The principal of Benteen Elementary said the Benteen Park Neighborhood Association could have our neighborhood meetings at the school. However, the school is closed during the summer.
A motion was made to continue meeting at the Church of Atlanta Lighthouse and dismiss the proposal to move the meeting location. The motion was seconded and passed.

Reported: The letter about installing traffic calming devices on neighborhood streets was mailed to Carla Smith.

501-C Status
Our treasurer reported the cost of attaining 501-C status would be $250 with possible additional charges. The treasurer also stated he would continue his research. The Secretary of State will be contacted to request application forms. Application for non-profit incorporation status will be revisited during our next meeting when more information is gathered.
It was suggested the new 2006 board of officers make achieving 501-C status a goal.

NEW BUSINESS
Katie Kaiser is researching ways to incorporate East Village Park and connecting streets (Park and Elleby) into Benteen Park. Currently, East Village Park is split in two – half in Benteen Park and half in McDonough-Guice. Correspondence from Wendy Scruggs-Murray to Katie Kaiser states any neighborhoods involved in changes to boundary lines must be in agreement with the changes. Wendy Scruggs-Murray stated the NPU-W might require making a presentation to the neighborhood association before the proposal goes before the entire NPU for support.

Around mid-August, the Bureau of Planning will ask NPUs to vote on all proposed changes. There must be a consensus on all changes before the NPU forwards proposed changes to the Bureau of Planning. Once changes are received and verification of no boundary conflicts is proved, the Bureau will write legislation for City Council for approval and, if approved, will allow changes to the “official” neighborhood map.

NOMINATION OF NEW OFFICERS
Verbal notification will be given announcing the nomination and election of new officers during the August 2006 meeting. The new board of officers will begin their term in September 2006.

GAY PRIDE SAND BOOTH VOLUNTEERS NEEDED
SAND will have a beer booth at Gay Pride on June 23, 24, and 25. SAND needs volunteers for the booth. Some Benteen Park residents have volunteered.

A motion was made to adjourn. The motion was seconded and passed.
The meeting was adjourned at 8:11 PM.