We would love to have you join our neighborhood meetings. We meet at the movement Movement Center from 6:30 - 8:00 every third Tuesday.

Meeting Minutes

June 19, 2018

The meeting was called to order by President Cynthia Harrison. All in attendance were asked to introduce themselves and state the number of years they have lived in Historic Camp Greene. There were neighbors present who have been part of our community for as many as 48 Years! Congratulations!!

Update on Petition for 3-Way Calming Stop Sign

Cynthia Harrison explained that the 3-way calming stop means there will be a stop sign on each of the three streets which intersect at the two recommended locations - Camp Greene Street and Garibaldi, and Camp Greene Street and Royston. This would be in an effort to slow traffic on Camp Greene Street. Speed bumps are not an option as the street is considered a thoroughfare by the fire department. Also, the city will no longer install speed bumps. It now is the communities responsibility at a cost of approximately $3,000 per speed bump.

Member comments included: 1.) It can be good to slow traffic, but it becomes dangerous when people don't stop. 2.) It will make the street safer. 3.) Mr. Herman Witte remarked that he had gotten the speed limit reduced from 35 MPH to 30 MPH. The problem is that people to not obey the speed limit.  4.) Why can't we have the police giving out tickets? That will get the word out to slow down! 5.) Why don't the traffic controllers figure out what's best? 6.) If Columbus Circle and Marlowe have speed bumps, why can't we have them on Camp Greene Street?

CDOT makes a final decision for the installation of the the 3-way calming stop-signs.

Community Officer's Report: Lieutenant Cochran

• There were 4 incidents of car break-ins, mostly on Millerton. Three juveniles have been apprehended.

• A stolen vehicle

• A stolen motorcycle.

• Juveniles broke in to a shed on the property of a vacant house.

• Motorcycle units have been added to our district.

• The shootings on Columbus Circle were not residents but rather persons being dropped off in that neighborhood. They are known to the police and are known in their own neighborhoods as well. One of the challenges facing police is that the persons involved will not give their names to the police. Often police can only obtain their names through the medics.

• If you see suspicious activity or persons being dropped off in the neighborhood, please contact the police or call 911.

• For the kids playig chicken with cars, often 3 to 5 at a time, Lieutenant Cochran suggested talking to their parents or calling the police.

• Additional traffic coverage was requested for speeders on Camp Greene Street. The Lieutenant explained that is not always possible because they are short officers (in the double digit numbers!) and they respond to higher priority situations first.

• For the kids riding their dirt bikes in the streets, he explained how difficult it is to follow them when they are on a bike and the police are in cars!

• The Metro Division is one of the busiest divisions in the city and yet it has one of the shortest response times of all units.

• Our police will be here for our National Night Out Celebration on August 7! Come give them your support!

• There are three interns in the Mayor's Mentoring Program working in our community for the summer. One of their projects will be painting the bridge on 12th Street.

Update From City Council

Councilwoman Dimple Ajmera, chair for the Environmental Committee, said we now have a city planner, a position that had been vacant for 2.5-3 years. The city ordinance rule book needs to be updated. She urged everyone to call 311 with concerns - code violations, unsightly trees and shrubs, sidewalks needing repair. Those calls produce a paper trail which is used for problem-solving. If you do not wish to be identified, you can ask to be an anonymous caller.

The city just passed a $2.6 billion budget. It requires a 1 cent tax increase so, for example, a $250,000 property will see an increase of $25.00. One of the big environmental iniatives is the Circular Environment which is designed to significantly increase recyling, including things such as tires that take 80-90 years to decompose. For further information please access the city's website

HCGNA Business Meeting

• Mtg. Minutes for May meeting approved as published.

• Treasurer's Report - Patsy Locke stated there is nothing new to report.

• Social Media/Website Update - no report given, Kelly Brunk was not in attendance.

• Old Business

  • Adopt-A-Street, Greenland/Arty/ Monument - Clean-up took place on Saturday, June 16th at 8:30 AM - 12 Noon. We met in the parking lot at the Dowd House. Coffee was provided courtesy of CupLux. If we have enough volunteers we will extend our clean-up to other street as well this Saturday.  Camp Greene Street is currently adopted by Daniel Herrara until December of 2018. If he defaults on his commitment, then we may be able to adopt it along with our current streets.

  • Weyland Apartments and Marlborough Woods, formerly owned by Marsh Properties, has been purchased by Gingko Residential. New energy efficient washers, dryers, and refrigerators are being installed. Rent will increase as of July. We are being told that a new clubhouse and swimming pool will also be built.

  • Adopt-A Stream - Avery Braun has set July 21st from 8:30 AM to 12 Noon as the date. He will obtain the needed equipment.  - waders, pickers, trash bags, etc. We will clean Stewart Creek from Camp Greene Street to Morehead. Please meet at Pinky's auxiliary parking lot (second entrance to lot) on Morehead Street. Kids are welcome. All volunteer hours will be logged and we will receive credit for them as a neighborhood association. Anyone who does not already have a Camp Greene t-shirt will receive one there. Please wear your shirt if you already have one. A second clean-up day for the stream will be scheduled in the fall. Once both clean-ups have been successfully completed, the neighborhood will receive new signage recognizing HCGNA Adopt-a-Stream participation. Signage to be place at Freedom and Morehead.

  • National Night Out, Aug 7, 2018: Terry Brown was not in attendance. No update given.

  • Sale of Dowd House - Our board members attended the County Commissioner's meeting this month. Eddie Johnson, Vice President, presented our concerns regarding apparent discussions going on with a private investor without any public notice being given about the possible sale of the Dowd House, the surrounding green space, and the old Firehouse #10. No one to date has informed the HCGNA of this possibility. We would like to be at the table for planning discussions since the property is in our neighborhood and we care what happens to it. LaWana Mayfield, our district City Councilwoman spoke up and said that, in the interest of time, she would send an email with an update on the situation.

  • Use of Dowd House Greenspace - Due to the great interest in a community garden, the board would like to suggest pursuing the use of the Duke Energy Right-of-Way for a Community Garden. It is a wide open space with no trees and lots of sun. Use of the greenspace next to the Dowd House would necessitate the removal of the tree cover in order to have a flourishing vegetable garden. Eddie Johnson has obtained information regarding ownership of that property currently. Further discussion to be held at next month's meeting.

  • The speaker for our July meeting will be Ms. Laurel Holtzapple from Groundworks Studio. She is a landscape designer who incorporates the area's history into her greenspace designs, utilizes native plants along with space usage as requested by the community. She designed Reid Park. She will give us a review of some of her work as well as address ideas for use of the greenspace surrounding the Dowd House. She suggests that members visit Reid Park (3207 Amay James Avenue) before our July meeting.

  • HCGNA Walking Group - Kay Barker informed us that the neighborhood walks are in full swing and lots of fun! We are out meeting our neighbors while learning lots about our neighborhood's history from Eddie and others who have lived here for so long! We walk four different areas of the neighborhood - 1st Sunday leaving from Bryant Park (Suttle Avenue); 2nd Thursday from Camp Greene Neighborhood Park; 3rd Sunday from the Dowd House; and the 4th Sunday from Spaugh Administrative Center Parking Lot. All at 6:30 PM. An email reminder is being sent prior to each walk if you have signed up for that list. Please remember to wear your Camp Greene 100th Anniversary Celebration t-shirt if you have one. Otherwise you will receive one at the walk. Walks are posted on the website calendar.

  • We will be developing a Jane's Walk for our neighborhood for next May. A Jane's Walk is a City Walk, part of a global celebration to honor Jane Jacobs  It is a free citizen-led walking tour inspired by Jane, a famous writer, activist, and urban thinker who championed a community-based approach to neighborhoods. These walks take place around the world during the first weekend in May, but in Charlotte they take place throughout May. Anyone interested in working on the development of the Camp Greene Walk, see either Eddie or Kay.

• New Business (because of time constraints, this will be discussed at the July meeting)

  • Community Meet-Ups: Eddie Johnson

  • Charlotte Museum of History, Nov 10th " The Impact of Camp Greene  on Charlotte" / Camp Greene Exhibit @ The Robinson Spangler Carolina Room (through 11/18), etc.

Meeting was adjourned at 8:10pm.

May 15, 2018

The meeting was called to order by President, Cynthia Harrison. Members and guests were introduced and  welcomed.

Minutes of the February 20, 2018 meeting were read by President, Cynthia Harrison and approved as read. Going forward, meeting minutes will be available on the HistoricCampGreene.com website. There will be two copies available prior to the start of our meetings for those who have not read them. At the request of neighborhood members, minutes of the previous month's meeting will be summarized, not read in entirety, as part of future meetings.

Community Officer's Report

Six auto larcenies reported for month. Officer Pinkney urged all residents to keep their car doors locked and goods out of sight.

One late-night break-in occurred at Camp Greene St. and Marlowe Ave.

Police are working to get an eviction of residents from the Weyland Avenue house with all the drug activity.

Speakers: Ashley Smith, Environmental Specialist with Water Quality Program, Charlotte-Mecklenburg Storm Water Services

The HCGNA has officially adopted the section of Stewart Creek from Camp Greene Street to Morehead Street. We will be responsible for two creek clean-ups each year, usually spring and fall. After the second documented clean-up, the city will post roadside signs announcing our adoptation of that section of the creek. Storm Water Services will provide the needed equipment for the job and will pick up the trash cleaned out of the creek once we are finished. A one time waiver will need to be signed to participate, including all youth. There are no age restrictions for the clean-up but only children 10 yrs and older will be allowed in the creek itself. Neighbors are also urged to notify the city if they see anyone dumping waste into the storm drains and waterways. If you have further questions, please google Adopt-A-Stream Charlotte.

HCGNA Adopt-A-Stream Coordinator, Mr. Avery Braun, will notify us of the Saturday date for our clean-up, pick-up needed equipment, and arrange for trash pick-up.

HCGNA Adopt-A-Street: Our neighborhood has previously adopted Greenland Avenue, Arty Avenue, and Monument Street. Lawana Mayfield, in conjunction with Cynthia Harrison, volunteered to coordinate this year's neighborhood street clean-up activity. Saturday, June 16th beginning at 8:30 AM was selected as the date for the clean-up. 

Please come out, join in these two activities and get to meet your neighbors!! It has always been a fun activitiy! Remember, there are no age restrictions so bring the whole family - and friends too!

National Night Out: Mr. Terry Brown, Coordinator

This year's National Night Out date is Tuesday, August 7 from 5:30 PM to 8 PM. This year marks the 35th anniversary of this national event to bring the community together to celebrate each other and get more connected with law enforcement. Volunteer sign-up sheets were distributed. Currently, Mr. Brown is working on business sponsorships.

Current City Council Activities and Updates: Councilwoman Lawana Mayfield

Councilwoman, Lawana Mayfield was then introduced and asked to speak briefly on current activities of the City Council. Current issue is the city budget. The city manager's recommendation is a $50 million bond for housing which would decrease to $25 million in 2020. This may necessitate a 1 cent tax increase. The police are asking for a 15% increase and the fire fighters are also looking for an increase in wages. Ms. Mayfield questions whether this will actually necessitate a 3 cent increase in taxes rather than just a 1 cent increase. Her concern is city bankruptcy.

She spoke of the initiatives the city has currently with the Realtor's Care Day and the Targeted Rehab Program (TLC for CLT) and the possible expnsion of the latter program. The city has some money available to expand that program perhaps making it a tiered program rather than only available to persons 65 Years of age or older, the disabled, or those earning 80% or below the median income.

The Keith Clinic Chiropractic Health Center is going into the former chinese restaurant on Freedon Dr. Dr. Estramonte is working to create a business investment corridor.

Patsy Locke asked if she knew what was going in on the block of Greenland Avenue across from the greenspace adjacent to the Dowd House. Ms Mayfield explained that council does not get involved with developments unless it reqires a zoning change. This property/development has not come before council. Avery Braun explained that the property is owned by BTX Investments and they will be developing luxury single family homes on the site. Patsy asked if there was anything the city or the neighborhood could do to stop this kind of development. Ms. Mayfield explained that the landowner has the say in what is done with the property, unless of course the owner does not pay their proprty taxes in which case the state will take the property. She said the best things that owners in our neighborhood can do is:

     1.  Don't sell your home

     2.  Keep up with the maintenance on the house and the property

     3  Be sure that you have your will in place so there is no question of ownership.

Eddie Johnson then asked Ms. Mayfield if we can look to the city for help with the pending sale of the Dowd House since the city has first right of refusal should the county want to sell the property. Ms. Mayfield stated she was not aware that the city had first right of refusal on the property. She will call Mr. Robert Hegamann, the city's attorney for clarification on the matter and let us know what he says.  She will also discuss the matter with Commissioners Pat Cotham and Trevor Fuller and get back with us. She asked if we have received a response from our County Commissioner, Ms. Vilma Leake, which we have not. Ms. Mayfield was copied on the original email that Cynthia Harrison, President, had sent to Ms. Vilma Leake.

NEIGHBOR'S WORKING SESSION:

Last month, attendees shared ideas for the use of the Dowd House, the greenspace adjacent to the Dowd House, the old firehouse on Remount Road, and suggestions for the Community Outreach Committee. These ideas were voted on this month and the results follow (# of votes):

The Dowd House:  Event/Meeting Space 13;  Remain Historical 7;  Business Development & Training Center for persons interested in creating a business 7;  Community Center 5;  Study Hall for area students 3;  Bed & Breakfast 3;  Base for Historical Tours of the Neighborhood 2;  Live Theater Venue 2;  a residence, not offices 0;  child development center 0.

The greenspace: Community Garden (1 of 7 original ideas) 7; Park/ manicured greenspace (5 of 7 original ideas) 4; Outdoor Theater & Concert Venue (1 of 7 original ideas) 1.

The old firehouse:  Artist's Space/ Gallery 12; Coffee Shop/Cafe 6; Recreation Center 5: Event Venue 3; retail Space 1; Fitness Center 0; Offices 0.

Community Outreach:  Block Party/ Festival (8 of 13 original ideas) 12; Free Health Screening 6; Neighborhood Clean-Up/ Beautification (2 of 13 original ideas) 4; Monthly Walk Through Neighborhood 4; Neighbor's Gift Basket/Flowers with note introducing HCGNA 2.

HCGNA Business Meeting:

Meeting Minutes: April 17, 2018 -  No additions, corrections or deletions to minutes as posted on the web-site.

• Treasurer's Report

Patsy Locke, Treasurer reported. The choices for a new bank include: First Citizen's Bank, which does not charge a maintenance fee; Charlotte Credit Union, which charges a $5.00 monthly maintenance fee; and, Fifth Third Bank, which charges an $11.00 monthly maintenance fee. Ms. Locke recommended opening the new account at First Citiszen's Bank in light of these charges. Attendees agreed. She will need to coordinate with Mr. Brian Fincher, a prior HCGNA Board President to make the change.

April balance: $744.54

                               14.00 disbursement for bank fees

    May balance: $730.54

• Old Business

• Update on Status of Private Sale of Dowd House, the adjacent greenspace and the old firehouse - We are awaiting return phone calls from our County Commissioner, Ms. Vilma Leake

• Update on Status of Private Sale of Dowd House, the adjacent greenspace and the old firehouse - We are awaiting return phone calls from our County Commissioner, Ms. Vilma Leake and the Central Region Parks & Recreation Commission Representative, Mr. Rick Winiker. No new information.

• No new information concerning the surveyor at the Weyland Properties.

• Community Walking Club - A sign-up sheet was passed for those wanting to be notified of the walking dates.

• New Business - Introduction of new committees and members

  • Three-way stop signs at Camp Greene Street and Garibaldi Street intersection and at Camp Greene Street and Royston Avenue has been proposed in leiu of speed bumps on Camp Greene Street to effect slowing of the traffic on that street. Those neighbors most affected will be getting a letter regarding this . Our June meeting will include a discussion of these proposed changes.

  • The HCGNA is going to submit a matching grant request to obtain city monies for our activities surrounding neighborhood clean-up and beautification and upcoming block parties and festivals. Last year we obtained $5,800 in matching grants to help pay the costs of the 100 Year Anniversary Celebration of Camp Greene. Every volunteer hour of service to the community is paid at $24.14. This pay-out includes hours attending our Historic Camp Greene Neighborhood Meetings!

Meeting was adjourned by the President at 7:56pm.

April 17, 2018

The meeting was called to order by President, Cynthia Harrison. Members and guests were welcomed.

Minutes of the February 20, 2018 meeting were read by President, Cynthia Harrison and approved as read. Going forward, meeting minutes will be available on the HistoricCampGreene.com website. There will be two copies available prior to the start of our meetings for those who have not read them. At the request of neighborhood members, minutes of the previous month's meeting will be summarized, not read in entirety, as part of future meetings.

Officer Prather's Report

Three area drug arrests include Weyland Apartments, a car parked on Garibaldi, and house on Weyland Avenue.

Charlotte's latest traffic challenge is the young adults (early twenty's) shooting paint balls at cars on the expressways and on city streets. There was an incident on Columbus Circle in which a two-year-old and another person were hit.  On Monday, police responded to a call involving 10 kids around 4 PM. One person was arrested. The perpetrators are reported to live either on Columbus Circle or on Marlowe Avenue.

Speed bumps for Camp Greene Street - The fire department objects to speed bumps on streets classified as thoroughfares. Camp Greene Street is classified as a minor thoroughfare on the city's thoroughfare plan.

Our new Code Enforcement Officer is working expeditiously to follow up on code violations in our neighborhood. Officer Prather asked for information on homes where code violations are suspected. Code Enforcement and the police will work together to do sweeps of problem houses in the future, but Officer Prather suggested that we first let the Code Enforcement Officers do what they are able to do.

Speakers: Mr. Ken Joyner & Ms. Christy Lantis, County Assessor's Office

Mr. Joyner's and Ms. Lantis's job is to reappraise all real property at full market value at least once every eight years. Mr. Joyner explained the process they are using to value the properties in Charlotte. They found that residents were unhappy with the lack of communication and response surrounding the last revaluation completed in 2011. Residents also complained that very few properties were actually looked at during the 2011 revaluation. There are 375,000 property parcels they will be revaluing in this assessment. To date they have completed 200,000.  All properties in the neighborhood will be used to establish the new property value but consideration will be given for the disparity between areas, such as Camp Greene homes and those of Bryant Park based on age of home and land value. The new valuation will be used for 2019 taxes, not for 2018 taxes.

Property owners can file an appeal with the County Assessor's Office if they feel their property is either significantly undervalued or overvalued in relation to full fair market value at the revaluation date. Appeals can be filed online, by mail, by telephone, or in person.

The elderly, totally and permanently disabled home owners, and veterans can qualify for property tax homestead exclusions. There are a number of requirements to be met in order to qualify for this tax exemption, including income. The income eligibility is reassigned yearly. For 2018 (2017 taxes), the income limit  is $29,500 or for the step-up program it is $44,400. If you qualify, you may receive an exclusion of either $25,000 or 50% of the taxable value of your residence (whichever is greater).

The County Assessor's Office has a new, more user-friendly website to address questions regarding revaluation: www.MeckReval.com. You can also email your questions to [email protected]; or call 704-336-6348.

Special Guest: Mr. Stephen Smith from Freedom Communities

Mr. Smith  was introduced to the neighbors in attendance by Board President, Cynthia Harrison. He spoke briefly introducing us to his organization, which has just been formed approximately 3-4 months ago. They work to connect the dots between education, employment, health, and housing for community residents.

Neighbors Working Session:

A brainstorming session with member participation was held. Attendees were asked to generate ideas for the use of the Dowd House, greenspace, and the old Firehouse. 

 Dowd House ideas:  prefer use as a residence rather than offices: bed & breakfast; event/meeting space (as proposed by Dowd Foundation & Ranger Cnstruction but under Parks & Recreation); work with schools and Parks & Rec Dept. to use property as a live theater venue for the area - local theater groups & neighborhood kids; base for historic tours of the area; remain historic; use as a study hall for area students; community center; child developent center; business development and training center with classes open to neighbors who are interested in creating a business & coordinate with CPCC, Queens, and other universities.

Greenspace (beside the Dowd House) Ideas:  keep it a park; manicured greenspace; community garden; playground; outdoor theater/concert venue; promote the development of a major park out of Bryant Park

Old Firehouse Ideas:  neighborhood recreation center; meeting space; artist's space/studios; local art gallery and event venue; coffee shop/ cafe;  local retail space (maybe food, coffee, bakery) combined with office space; fitness center

Next, the attendees were asked to generate ideas for Neighborhood Outreach. The following are those ideas:  block parties with food, kid's activities, & music; more neighborhood clean-ups; neighborhood festivals & summer picnic programs; Camp Greene Neighborhood party (like a block party but for the neighborhood); yard beautification contest; walk the neighborhood monthly; have a free health screening; take something small to every house with a note introducing HCGNA ie. small plant or goodie bag; mini neighborhood party for kids in Columbus Circle area; national night out.

Our Community Outreach Committee has already drafted a letter to residents, businesses, and organizations and has looked into the Adopt-A-Stream Program for Stewart Creek. Our speaker next month will be from the Adopt-A-Stream Program. Mr. Terry Brown has already agreed to head up the National Night Out Program for our neighborhood.

HCGNA Business Meeting:

Meeting Minutes: March 20, 2018 -  Secretary, Kay Barker informed the membership that meeting minutes are now available on the HistoricCampGreene.com website. Two copies were available prior to the start of the meeting for those who had not read them. Minutes were approved as posted.

• Treasurer's Report

No report was given due to the absence of treasurer,  Patsy Locke. Status of new bank account was not addressed.

• Old Business

Update on Status of Private Sale of Dowd House, the adjacent greenspace and the old firehouse - We are awaiting return phone calls from our County Commissioner, Ms. Vilma Leake and the Central Region Parks & Recreation Commission Representative, Mr. Rick Winiker. No new information.

• New Business - Introduction of new committees and members

  • Malcolm Garland attended a meeting regarding property tax issues put on by Charlotte Center for Legal Advocacy. They will help persons with questions regarding the available programs and help them fill out needed forms, etc. They also can provide free legal advise. Contact Malcolm for details.

  • Notify Lawana Mayfield's office with suspected Code Enforcement Violations

  • A surveyor was noticed at the Weyland Properties. No one had information as to why.

  • Carol Wood apologized for the church setting the chimes to ring during the night instead of the daytime.

  • The idea of developing a community walking club was birthed. Members were asked about their interest. It was suggested that the Outreach letters could be distributed by the walking club and that the walk should end at the Dairy Queen! Sufficient interest was expressed. Organization of times, location, etc will ensue. Watch for information on our facebook page.

Meeting was adjourned by the President at 8:05 P

March 20, 2018

The meeting was called to order by President, Cynthia Harrison.

Minutes of the February 20, 2018 meeting were read by President, Cynthia Harrison and approved as read. Going forward, meeting minutes will be available on the HistoricCampGreene.com website. There will be two copies available prior to the start of our meetings for those who have not read them. At the request of neighborhood members, minutes of the previous month's meeting will be summarized, not read in entirety, as part of future meetings.

Treasurer's Report, Patsy Locke

The beginning balance was currently $773.54. There were no deposits since the last report. There was a $14 disbursement for bank fees. The current balance is $759.54. A new bank account has not yet been opened.

Officer Prather's Report

There were no breaking and entering or auto larcenies reported this month. There were 13 arrests. There was a street robbery on Greenland Avenue and a car shot into on Columbus Circle. In both cases, the victims reportedly knew the perpetrator

Speed bumps for Camp Greene Street - Fire Department is impeded with speed bumps and will not approve them on major streets. We will need to work with CDOT and the city for a matching grant as the city no longer funds them.

Weyland Apartments works with Urban Ministries to house persons who are homeless. The manager there is also very cooperative with the police.

Our new Code Enforcement Officer is Lori Reece. Code Enforcement and the Police are working together to do sweeps of problem houses.

Pastor Sherrill Amelia Stinson-Wesley of Purcell UMC, 2141 Weyland Avenue, reported that someone dumped apartment debris in their church parking lot. Damage to lights and the security system was also done. She requested that anyone having any information please contact them.

Reggie Cooke from DiVita Dialysis reported observing solicitations going on at the corner store, corner of Greenland and Morehead Avenues. He is concerned because a number of their patrons are elderly.

Old Business

• Police Community Relations Award Submittal was done for both Officer Muhummad and Officer Prather.

• By-Laws: Were read as amended to satisfy the state's requirements for lifting the bank account suspension.

• Dowd House, Fire Station, Park Status Update

Historic Landmarks Commission Mtg Report by Eddie Johnson. The board attended the Historic Landmarks Comission Meeting on Monday, March 12, 2018.  It was learned that the Dowd Foundation was agreeing to give $250,000 and Ranger Construction $350,000 for the purchase of the Dowd House, greenspace and Firehouse properties. Our board requested information about the time frame in which this sale is proposed; whether or not any other options have been considered, and the specific deed restrictions on the property at this time. We stated our knowledge that this property is publicly held and therefore, comes under the North Carolina Law which requires that public properties  must be have a notice of sale publicly posted and then the sale is to be made to the highest bidder. This process appears to be being skirted in this case, since no one has seen such a notice. Mr. Dan Morrill is very interested in preserving the firehouse as it is the only example in Charlotte of a mid-century firehouse designed by its architect. Our board members expressed a desire to be included at the table when things are being determined for the Dowd House properties and that we are interested in preservation also. The Historic Landmarks Commission Members appeared very receptive to our position and asked multiple questions. Our specific questions were not answered at the meeting.

Of note is the fact that Mr. Rick Winiker, Parks and Recreation Commissioner for our district has no knowledge of the sale of the Dowd House, the firehouse, or the greenspace adjacent.

• Board Retreat Update by Cynthia Harrison

The board officers along with Mr. Neal Broome; Malcolm Garland; and Mrs. Elouise Garland attended the Neighborhood Board Retreat sponsored by the city on February 24, 2018. It was decided to keep our vision statement: Preserving Our Past, Protecting Our Future. Three strategic priorities were adopted for the neighborhood:

        1.  Neighborhood Outreach - Develop a communication and outreach project to increase neighborhood involvement

        2.  Long-Range Planning - Develop a neighborhood plan with city support

        3.  City Reporting - Organize monthly speakers/briefs for meetings (zoning, planning, CDOT, etc.)

• New Business - Introduction of new committees and members

  • Community Engagement :  Avery Braun  drafted a letter to be distributed to all persons living in the neighborhood for the purpose of introducing the residents to the HCGNA and inviting their participation. The letter was read and approved by the members. Distribution details need to be determined.

  • City-County Government Developments:   Malcolm Garland reported that he is working on persons from the city and county agencies to report information to the members monthly. Mr. Terry Brown, Zoning Board of Adjustments, will also work on getting someone to attend monthly meetings with updates on zoning.

  • Social Media/ Marketing: Kelly Brunk will be posting information about the community on Facebook and Twitter as well as updating our website.

• Other Business / Announcements

Ian from the CupLux Coffee Shop informed us that he is a Tree Master. Our tree canopy in the city of Charlotte is down 6-8% from it former 47% coverage. He is involved with Tree Charlotte  which is a non-profit that gives away free trees. He also stated that we could do an event specific for the Camp Greene Neighborhood. He had a sign-up sheet for interested persons.

Meeting was adjourned by the President.  

Reported by Eddie Johnson, Vice President and Carol Wood, Member-at-large

February 20, 2018

The meeting was called to order by President, Cynthia Harrison.

Minutes of the January 18, 2018 meeting were read by Secretary, Kay Barker and approved as read. Going forward, meeting minutes will be available on the HistoricCampGreene.com website. There will be two copies available prior to the start of our meetings for those who have not read them. Minutes of the previous month's meeting will no longer be read as part of the meeting.

President's Report, Cynthia Harrison: 

Our neighborhood was awarded the Good Neighbor Leadership Award in 2016-2017 In 2017, we orchestrated a very successful 100th Anniversary Celebration of the establishment of WW I Camp Greene Training Camp, celebrating with both a daytime festival and an evening gala. At the Board Retreat in 2017, Past President Tommy Harris penned the Motto: Preserving Our Past, Protecting Our Future. We are in a time of change, both as a neighborhood and as a city. Our neighborhood is part of the thoroughfare connecting Gastonia and Center City. We need to be sure that our united voice as a neighborhood is heard.  She thanked the board and committee members, announced the board will be meeting monthly prior to the CGNA meetings, and promised to maintain a transparency throughout her presidency.

Treasurer's Report, Patsy Locke: 

Balance in the account of $773.54. There have been no withdrawals. There was a $14.00 bank fee. Patsy will bring a full report to the next meeting as requested from the floor since the numbers are different from last month's balance of $780.00. She reported the following dispersements for December and January: Dec. 30, 2017 $30.00; Dec 29, 2017 $14.00 bank fee; January 16, 2018 $200.99 Christ Presbyterian Church; January 31,2018 $14.00 bank fee.

Officer Prather's Report:

1.)  Officer Muhammad has been promoted to Sgt. and is no longer with us. She again is by herself.

2.)  She will follow-up with CDOT on the request for speed bumps on Camp Greene street. She informed us that it is now up to the neirghborhood to pay for the speed bumps. There are matching grants available from the city but the process is very long as there are so many neighborhoods requesting them.

3.)  Larceny from autos continues all over the city of Charlotte. Two days prior, two young men were arrested in Bryant Park and they admitted to 8 larcenies that day. All of them were from unlocked cars with valuables visable.  Residents are urged to lock their car doors and keep valuables out of sight.

Jason Lawrence, Project Manager, West Corridor Transit Services was our guest speaker. He spoke about the current study being conducted by the Charlotte Area Transit System which will lead to an updated rapid transit vision for the LYNX West Corridor, currently poised for a streetcar system under the 2030 Transit Corridor System Plan. There have been significant changes in this corridor that have made review of the current west corridor plan appropriate. It will be one of three parts of a plan revision for the Transit System - the other two are the North Corridor Rail Alignment to Mooresville and the Uptown rail integration plan for the various rail lines through Center-City Charlotte. 

There was much discussion and many questions asked. Mr. Lawrence will return with updated information at a later meeting. You can learn more at www.ridetransit.org or by calling 704-336-RIDE(7433), stay informed by attending one of the many planned public meetings, or by signing up for NotifyMe at www.ridetransit.org. After registering on the website, select LYNX West Corridor to receive updates. 

New Business: 

Eddie Johnson, Vice President:

  1.) A new pet grooming facility is going in on the corner of Berryhill and Wilkinson.

  2.) Mr. Chris Ogunrinde, Urban Trends Properties met with the board to share development plans and architectural renderings for the hotel/restaurant property at the corner of Wilkinson Blvd. / Berryhill Avenue / Arty Ave. Plans are to build a 7-floor hotel with retail and restaurant space on the first two floors; and  115 small apts in two 5-story buildings bordering Wilkinson Blvd. and Arty Avenue. There will be a parking deck in between the two sets of apartment buildings. Roof top gardens and a pool are also planned. Proposed rental rates are $800 - $850. As plans progress, he will return to speak to the CGNA. 

  3.) Eddie attended a meeting where he obtained a number of copies of North Carolina State Government Resource Guide. Copies were distributed to those interested.

  4.)  Cynthia Harrison and Eddie Johnson attended the Wesley Heights - Historic Preservation & New Workforce Housing Project public forum meeting regarding the request to rezone land to permit construction of a new 4-unit affordable housing unit behind two historic homes in their neighborhood. Meeting hand-out was shared with attendees.

  5.)  Information has surfaced that the county possibly in conjuction with the Historic Landmarks Comission are in the process of selling the Dowd House Property to a prospective buyer. No one has come forward from either the county, the HLC, or the city to discuss the possibility with the neighborhood association. This is publicly held property and therefore should be dealt with publicly. Discussion of the benefit of the Dowd House to the neighborhood ensued.  Some discussion also revolved around what the neighborhood would like to see it's use become.  The major issue seemed to be the concerns that the proceedings regarding the sale of a public property was occurring behind closed doors without any input from the neighborhood or the public. We feel protective covenants regarding preservation of the Dowd House and its historical value need to be insured. A member vote was taken to determine whether or not the CGNA Board should make our voice heard to the government entities involved. Majority voted in favor. 

Cynthia Harrison, President presented information on nominations for the Police Community Relations Award.  Members voted to nominate both Officer Prather and Officer Muhammad for the award. The Board will submit the nominations in behalf of the neighborhood association.

Cynthia Harrison announced the upcoming Board Retreat on Saturday, February 24 at the Goodwill Opportunity Campus from 8 AM to 1:30 PM. There are two registration spots available for anyone interested in attending the training with the Board.

Meeting was adjourned by the President at 8:05 PM.

AUGUST 15, 2017 MEETING:

Cynthia Harrison, Vice President CGNA

·         Received notice in the mail of 12.9 Acre redevelopment project at Camp Greene St. and  Freedom Drive. A public meeting is scheduled for Monday, August 21, 2017 at the Harvest Center at 2225 Freedom Drive from 5:30-7:30 pm. 185 mixed income apartment units are being proposed in 4 buildings.

Officer Mohammad, CMPD

·         Responding to Mr. Wiggins concern about commercial truck traffic on Camp Greene St: CMPD will set up an operation to monitor the street for prohibited traffic. He will also contact companies who’s trucks Mr. Wiggins has documented traveling through the neighborhood.

·         Contact him via email for best response with tips and non emergency issues that you’d like him to be aware of or monitor.

·         CMPD is continuing to monitor Highland St. for the drug and prostitution issues that were brought up at the last meeting.

·         There is not much CMPD can do about boarding houses. Anyone operating one without a permit only has to go pay a small fee to register with the City.

Neil Broome

·         Found that the City of Charlotte offers a 6 week course to create a citizen’s planning committee and encourages neighbors to sign up and get involved

Patsy Locke, Treasurer CGNA

·         Current balance is $3100

·         We have not received full reimbursement from the City yet under the grant we were awaded for the centennial event.

J. Michael Moore, Historian

·         Shared his presentation of Who Owns Camp Greene that was made at the Centennial. His project covered the ownership and use of the lands that made up camp greene from before the Camp’s existence to the present day.

JULY 18th MEETING:

Officer Mohammad, CMPD

·         3 reports of vandalism

·         1 burglary on Camp Greene St. – House had alarm but alarm didn’t go off

·         Questions to officer included reports of drug dealing and prostitution problem at a house in 2000 block of Highland St. and a boarding house at 2049 Highland St.

·         Also, Officer Mohammad was asked what can be done about a landscaping trailer that continually blocks Greenland Ave.

Tommy Harris, President CGNA

·         Next cleanup is Sept. 30th 2017

Cynthia Harrison, Vice President CGNA

·         Gave recap of Centennial including background of General Tucker (keynote speaker at event) who was raised in Camp Greene and details of Ed Dement, the planning committee member who passed away before the event

·         Final event #’s are still being counted but it was successful in generating income for CGNA

·         Made a motion to reimburse Neil Broome for flowers sent to Mr. Dement’s funeral, reimburse Joshua for paying to renew CGNA website hosting and also to pay Dirk Allman for his services at the Centennial (filling in for Mr. Dement). Motion was approved.

·         Unsold Camp Greene t-shirts and reusable shopping bags will be given to neighbors at CGNA meetings

Richard McIlwaine, CGNA Neighbor

·         Reminded the group that Halloween is coming and suggested again looking into doing an event as a fundraiser

·         When he organized his haunted trail, he was made $1600 – CGNA could do at least that well if we are able to organize something.

Kay Barker, CGNA Neighbor

·         Dr. Heather Perry is planning a “History Harvest“ to collect local history stories and document artifacts. If the group is interested in doing a harvest for our area, there is a grant available to help.

·         Michael Moore will be at the August CGNA meeting to repeat the presentation he made at the centennial about the history of the land that made up Camp Greene

Neil Broome

·         Thanked group for embracing the centennial idea & his input

·         Shared souvenir booklets from centennial with Mr. Dements family

Patsy Locke, Treasurer CGNA

·         Food and t-shirt sales at the centennial were $939

·         City grant amount received  = @2,111.09

·         Deposit from sales = $3,159 ($60 still due to be collected)

·         CGNA existing balance prior event = $169.39

·         Current CGNA balance = $3,159.48

Jay Snover, Commercial Realtor

·         Our area is a hot market

·         Don’t sell your property right now. Our homes are about to become a lot more valuable. If you must sell, don’t be lowballed by buyer.

·         90% of growth in commercial development is happening in 10 markets. Charlotte market is 4th on the list.

·         Schools are the key to attracting families (long term residents) and good development

·         New townhouse  development near Bryant Park

·         Will come back and talk in more detail about development (in general) and how to best deal with it

April 18, 2017 meeting:

• Cynthia Harrison called the meeting to order and had everyone introduce themselves. Several new neighbors were in attendance,  including Angela, who just purchased 1504 Camp Greene St. (the house behind Aldi) and plans to open a salon. 

• Lawana Mayfield's assistant, Caleb, attended and took notes to update Lawana

• Cynthia Harrison, Vice President,  gave an update on the Centennial

  • Event dates are July 15th & 16th (2017)

  • Volunteers are sought for the event - much help will be needed

  • There are several sponsors already on board

  • Camp Greene Neighborhood Assoc. selling t-shirts during the festival as a fund raiser was discussed

   

• Officer Prather gave safety update

  • CMPD participated in the Spectrum/Rebuilding together event. Questions were asked the piles of trash at one of the project locations & Carolyn offered to follow up with event organizers about removal. 

  • There was one break in reported on Morton. An arrest was made

  • A bicycle was stolen from a garage in the Bryant Park Development. Carolyn warned against leaving garage or shed doors open. 

  • There was an assault reported on Greenland Ave (near Wal Mart) stemming from a domestic dispute.

  • Neighbors asked about the helicopter and heavy police presence the night before on Highland Ave. Officer Prather did not have details to share about it but mentioned there had been another similar chase in the area that day following an armed robbery. 

  • When asked about the Shooting that was reported by all of the local news outlets at the Airport Inn on Wilkinson, Officer Prather hadn't heard about it. She left the mtg to check her computer and returned to tell us there was no police report of a shooting at that location. She told us she would check on the status of the liquor license application for the proposed sports bar at the hotel. She doesn't expect it to be granted. 

  • She contacted CDOT following our last meeting about the obscured stop sign on Berryhill. CDOT has already relocated it to improve visibility. 

   

• Patsy Locke, group Treasure, gave an update on the status of the bank account change

  • In order to open a new account, we need to show (among other things) a copy of our bylaws. 

  • The draft bylaws that were included with the last meeting reminder were read through in the meeting and amended. 

  • Anyone with concerns or proposed revisions should share them with Patsy via email to [email protected]

  • After discussion, the group voted to approve the bylaws as amended at the meeting in order to keep the process of opening a new account moving. The bylaws can be further ammeded as needed at later meetings. 

   

• Eddie Johnson, Secretary

  • followed up on discussion of the house at 2400 Morton St. that several neighbors brought up preciously and researched the ownership.

  • It is owned by Altisource Res. Corp which is based in the Virgin Islands. A stateside representative was listed, Scott Whaley of 2390 E. Camelback Rd Phoenix, AZ. 

  • Suggested that given some of the concerns given about the house (black mold, overgrown yard, etc) perhaps the Board of the Neighborhood group could fill out a Property Inspection Petition (resulting in a mandatory building inspection). Names on the petition are public record, so the board filing it would prevent retaliation towards neighbors. 

  • No action was taken on whether to file the petition

March 21, 2017 meeting:

Rebuilding Together Update: 

·         Projects for April 8th have been identified

·         3 Homes on Millerton Ave. will repaired

·         Spectrum is sponsoring 250 Healthy Home Kits to be given away April 8th @ Shiloh Baptist Church

·         Rebuilding Together of Greater Charlotte is looking for 7 more projects to do for Fall 2017

Carloyn Prather, CMPD:

• Officers have monitored speed on Camp Greene St a couple of times since the last meeting, between 4 and 6 pm

• Speeds they saw ranged from 28 to 39 mph but they will continue to monitor Camp Greene St. to make sure those observations were accurate

• Metro division now has a couple of radar certified officers

• Officer Prather now has a new partner, Officer Mohammad (who couldn't make the meeting)

• Airport Inn is no longer a halfway house, a new sports bar has applied for a liquor license there.

• Officer Prather will contact CDOT regarding the obscured stop sign at Berryhill Rd

• CMPD has no suspects in the shooting that occured in front of Graybar on March 10th.

Tommy Harris:

• The city is seeking nominations for Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Community Relations Award.

• The group voted unanimously to nominate Officer Prather.

• There is still no word regarding the neighborhood group's stream adoption

• There has also been no news regarding the beautification grant we applied for to update landscaping at the banner poles

• Our next cleanups are May 13th and June 24th, 9am - 12-pm

Terry Bryant: 

• Smallwood and Biddleville have joined the inside out program and will receive replica art pieces for display in their neighborhoods from the Bechtler and Gantt museums (www.insideoutclt.org). Terry wanted to gauge the group's interest in joining the program

• Group voted gave authorization to proceed on our behalf

Thomasina Massey:

• Habitat for Humanity is providing Little Free Libraries to applicants and one would be nice to have in Camp Greene

• Sharelle Blake agreed to follow up with Habitat

Katie Lloyd:

• Katie and Todd are moving out of the neighborhood

• Volunteers were sought to take over Katie's responsibilities with the neighborhood association social media accounts. Logan Bennett volunteered to take over and Sue Colucci will be our backup.

• There is still no word on the grants that Katie has applied for, including the Knight Cities Challenge

Curtis Lawing: 

• Suggested the association volunteer to paint Christ Presbyterian's storage building as a thank you for all they do for the neighborhood.

• Carol Wood will ask the church's maintenance committee about it

02/21/17 meeting

Cynthia Harrison, Vice President CGNA,  gave update on Centennial Event:

• The Committee is partnering with the Mecklenburg County Historical Association

• This will allow us to raise funds under the umbrella of their 501c3 (nonprofit status)

• There will be a Gala Saturday Night as part of the festivities

• The Gala will likely be held at Goodwill's new facility on Wilkinson Blvd

• We have several organizations partnering with us s/a Mecca Properties, Parks and Rec, Ranger Construction and The Freedom Foundation

• Ed Dement of the O'Kaysions will be our DJ

Tommy Harris, President CGNA & Eddie Johnson, Secretary CGNA:

• Parks and Rec has scheduled clean up days at the Dowd House and is requesting communitty support to ready the property for the Centennial on the following dates:

  • Saturday, May 13th 9:00 am - 12:00 pm

  • Saturday, June 24th 9:00 am - 12:00 pm

  • Wednesday, June 28th 9:00 am - 12:00 pm

• May 13th coincides with the city-wide cleanup event

• Camp Greene volunteers will piggyback on the May 13th event and branch out from the Dowd House and clean up high visibility areas in the neighborhood as well

Officer Carolynn Prather gave an update from CMPD:

• There were two break ins recently in the 2400 block of Greenland Ave. There are currently no suspects.

• One house on Marlowe was shot into

• There were no reports of violent crime @ Wal-Mart (it had been previously asked about)

• Wal-Mart is now employing off duty CMPD officers for security

• Hwy Patrol's motorcycle unit and our regular CMPD patrol have been monitoring Camp Greene St. for speeders and stop sign violations.

• The radar trailer was considered but can not be deployed along Camp Greene St. safely due to the lack of shoulder space along the road between Royston and Marlowe.

• Panhandlers are becoming more prevalent. CMPD generally doesn't arrest them unless they are aggressive but they will come out if called. The best advice is DO NOT GIVE THEM MONEY.

• Neighbor reported suspicious activity on Highland and was asked to email the address and info. Officer Prather encouraged the group to email her if they see suspicious activity (that doesn't warrant calling 911).

Lawana Mayfield, City Council - District 3 (& Camp Greene resident):

• Mentioned new development projects in District 3: Holiday Inn Express, Fairfield Mariot @ City Park, Apartment and Townhouse project behind County bldg, etc.

• Car dealership that opened in old Citgo @ Berryhill & Freedom seems to be curbing drug traffic at Sam's Auto Rentals

• Follow up meetings for the City's Targeted Rehab Program are starting

• The program will fund up to $42,000 worth of work per project

• The program covers electrical repairs

• For renters, the qualification is based upon the renter's income but the homeowner must sign a commitment to keep the home affordable.

• Ashley Apartments still have some layout issues being resolved with Planning & City Council.

• Resident asked about being referred by animal control to rent an animal trap from a particular business. Lawana advised that when you speak to someone at the City and get info you think is incorrect, get their name and as much info as you can. It helps if she needs get involved.

• When you call 311, record the reference #. If issues aren't resolved, contact Lawana (with ref. #'s)

• City of Charlotte is not involved in redevelopment of Brookhill Apts site

Beth Morrison, Board President of Rebuilding Together of Greater Charlotte:

• Group a nonprofit that has been active in Charlotte since 2010

• Focusing on Camp Greene for the next two years

• They offer critical home repairs at no cost for qualifying owner-occupied properties

• Income restriction is 80% of area median income

• They are funded by private corporate sponsors

• They currently have pass thru funding from the City of Charlotte for roofing repairs

• They partner with City programs s/a the targeted rehab program to do more (if you qualify, you can use both)

• There is funding for two projects scheduled for April but they have no candidate properties identified yet

• If you'd like to apply, fill out an online application at www.rtcharlotte.org

Elizabeth Lamy, City of Charlotte:

• Regarding Targeted Rehab Survey responses: "Lincoln Heights is smoking y'all"

• Her assistant, Amanda is scheduling meetings with applicants

• Elizabeth is meeting with the homeowners and inspecting the properties

• They will NOT open code enforcement cases as a result of these inspections. They are strictly to see what repairs they can fund or refer to other groups such as Rebuilding Together.

• You can still apply to the program

• The income limit is up to 100% of median income

• Approximate time frame for inspection, testing and write up is two months

01/17/17 meeting

• Tommy had other obligations so Cynthia conducted the meeting

• Patsy Locke was introduced to the group as the new treasurer

  • No decision has been made on new bank

  • Several banks and credit unions were discussed as possibilities for Patsy to investigate

• Cynthia had everyone present introduce themselves

• Katie informed the group about the knight Cities Challenge, in which she is a finalist

  • project will install picnic tables that the community can/will decorate

  • includes one or two events to kick off the project s/a a cookout or picnic

  • more info at knightcities.org

• Katie also gave the group more information on Rebuilding Together

  • rehab program for owner occupied homes

  • they can coordinate efforts with the City rehab program

  • income qualification is 80% of median income (roughly $37k per year for single income)

• Officer Carolynn Prather gave CMPD update

  • Bryant Park seeing more break ins at homes under construction and thefts from vehicles

  • CMPD is encouraging citizens to use the NextDoor website/app and is using that platform to get relevant crime and safety info to communities

  • The Camp Greene Neighborhood is on Next Door as Marsh Estates

  • When told of the increasing problem with speeders on Camp Greene St., Officer Prather said she'd try to coordinate getting the motorcycle detail to schedule a day on Camp Greene

  • Further discussion included requests for more frequent patrols (b/c running radar once won't change drivers' behavior), questions about getting the radar trailer here, questions about why CMPD no longer sets up checkpoints and questions about whose responsibility it is to enforce the no truck traffic signs on Camp Greene St.

  • The group was told that our CMPD division only has one officer certified to run radar and due to court rulings, officers can not set up a license check on the fly any longer (as they formerly did on slow days).

  • CMPD is responsible for citing trucks that travel illegally through the neighborhood but they must see the offense. It was pointed out that if they spent more time in the neighborhood, they'd see them.

  • The shooting at Walmart and the shooting at Camp Greene St and Freedom Dr. Saturday were not considered random violence. No arrested for either shooting.

  • The drug team is focusing on the Columbus Circle area

• Terry Bryant introduced himself

  • New resident in Brant Park

  • he is trying to organize precinct 23 fot the Democrats and is invites anyone interested to participate

• Camp Greene Centennial Celebration update

  • Cynthia to meet with Ed Hardison and MECA Properties Friday

  • Brian Fincher mentioned that the Sunset Div. in Washington State sent a band to play at our last event. Relevant info and contacts are in the previously mentioned binder.

  • Parks and Rec is working to have the Dowd House in good repair for the event and opened to the public

  • Parks and Rec anticipates community help with cleaning up the grounds closer to the event

  • It was also suggested we schedule our neighborhood cleanups to coincide with the event

  • Eddie has contacted a reenactment group that is very excited to potentially do a living history exhibit as well lend artifacts and other exhibits to the celebration

  • The Centennial Committee is still seeking volunteers

  • The next meeting is Feb. 10th at 2229 Weyland Ave.

• Marika Christie

  • Author of the Wilkinson Blvd (digital) Newsletter

  • Highlighted most recent edition and asked for feedback

  • Contact Marika ([email protected]) if you'd like to get on the distribution list for the newsletter

• Alexandria Bell

  • Lawana Mayfield's intern

  • Targeted Rehab program has had less than 50 surveys returned

  • The next phase of the program should start in early spring

  • If you are having trouble with online survey, contact Lawana's office to get a printed copy

  • Lawana will look into calls not being returned from program director

• Other items discussed:

  • Malcolm Garland created a draft copy of by laws. Katie will post them online for everyone to review

    • See here: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1l8QTgpQ2ukhJDY4JZex8QaNKDfIcGDAT9nBfUtgBvlM/edit?usp=sharing

  • Brian Fincher pointed out that bylaws already exist and are documented in the binder that was given to Joshua when he took over as president

  • Brian updated the group on the current bank account and gave the account info and cards to the new Treasurer (Patsy)

  • No word yet on the Keep Charlotte Beautiful grant we applied for to help landscape the banner poles

  • The City's Leadership Program is accepting applications. The 8 week program is free and open to all.

  • Deadlines are approaching to apply to use our $1500 matching grant credit we received for participating in last year's Board retreat. The grant expires in June. Deadlines for applications are March 1 and June 1.

  • Malcolm took issue with the groups holiday gathering and the vote for Treasurer being held as previously announced.

12/20/16 meeting

• Tommy called brief meeting to order

• Tommy summarized meeting with Rebuilding Together (a nonprofit)

• they are teaming with the City to target rehab projects in our area in 2017

• their org. only assists homeowners

• can work in conjunction with the City's rehab program to cover repairs not covered by the City

• Representatives will come to a future mtg to detail their program

• Cynthia gave update on Camp Greene Centennial

• next meeting 6:30 pm 01/10/17 @ 2239 Weyland Ave

• Event will be two days, July 15-16 2017

• Subcomittees have been formed to begin planning tasks

• Still seeking Volunteers - Contact Cynthia Harrison if interested in participating

• Introduced Mr. Broome who updated us on some of the people and groups he has contacted regarding the Centennial Celebration

• Vote for Treasurer position was held

  • Candidates were Patsy Locke and Malcom Garland

  • Patsy received 23 votes, Malcom received 0

11/15/16 meeting

Carol Wood, Christ Presbyterian Church

• Christ Presbyterian Church is hosting a Thanksgiving Day breakfast for first responders. Everyone is invited to volunteer or just drop by and thank the first responders in person

• Breakfast for the congregation and anyone who'd like to join them is at 8:00 am

• Church Service is at 9:00

Cynthia Harrison, Vice President CGNA

• Accepted the Good Neighbor Award on behalf of the neighborhood at the City Council meeting 11/14/16.

• discussed the need to identify a location for the Good Neighbors sign that is part of the award

• After some discussion and a vote, Remount Rd between Wilkinson Blvd and Greenland Ave. was chosen as the location for the sign

• Work is continues on the Centennial Celebration for Camp Greene

• The new date for the event is 07/15/2017

• Volunteers sought for planning and execution of event

• introduced Neil Broome and Ed Hardison (of Charlotte Pipe and Foundry) who each expressed their interest in both the Centennial and the preservation of the Dowd House

Tommy Harris, President CGNA 

• First tree banding session will be Saturday 12/03/16

• Contact Tommy or Katie if you'd like to help or have a tree that needs banding

• We are still working on acquiring 501c3 (nonprofit) designation

• We have donors willing to cover the cost of the 501c3 application

• The process is delayed due to the fact we do not have a treasurer and do not have access to our existing bank account

• The possibility of voting immediately on a new Treasurer was raised but was tabled until the December meeting since that was the previously agreed upon schedule

• Current nominees for Treasurer are Patsy Locke, Anthony Johnson and Malcolm Garland

• Stream Cleanup is in limbo until City of Charlotte gets our paperwork in order

• Camp Greene St (unofficial) cleanup scheduled for Saturday (11/19/16)

• December meeting will be apotluck, a pseudo holiday party. Participation in the potluck is voluntary. Everyone, as always, is welcome.

Roberto, Neighbor from Garibaldi Avenue

• Is having erosion issues due to ditch at the rear of his property

• Was advised to contact the City via 311 for help with the issue

Alexandria Bell, Intern for Councilwoman Mayfield

• Urged neighbors to complete housing survey if they have not already done so

Bennett Simonsen, Humane Society of Charlotte

• Bennett is a Camp Greene resident

• The current shelter is outdated

• They are looking to build a new shelter near Remount and Wilkinson

• The new shelter will have all kennels indoors and offer programs , services and walking trails to the community

• The humane society can help with low cost vaccines, spaying and neutering and works with Unchain Dogs

10/18/16 Meeting

Kristen Davis/Code Enforcement

• Congratulated Group on our Good Neighbor Award

• For fiscal year 71/15-6/31/16, 86% increase in code enforcement complaints, 10% decrease in violations in Camp Greene Area

• Code enforcement is hiring 2 new inspectors (including the empty position in our area)

• Continue to call 311 or use the city's app to report violations.

• City is currently rewriting the code and fine amounts

• Grass at 2400 Wilkinson BV will be cut soon.

• They are still fining for signs (we buy X type) closer than 11 feet from the edge of roadway. Please continue to call and report them

• Political signs are all allowed within 3 feet of the public right-of-way and must be removed within 7 days of the election.

• Code enforcement will do a fall sweep after the election to remove political signs

Lawana Mayfield, District 3 City Council 

• introduced her new intern, Alexandria Bell

• Application deadline for Safe Home/Lead safe program for senior citizens and those making 30% or less of median income ($34,00 for a family of 2) is November 23

• Reminded group of new Targeted Rehabilitation Program in our neighborhood. The first step is to complete the survey, available online buy phone or mail. Contact Neighborhood & Business Services or contact Elizabeth Lamy directly [email protected]

• The Actor's Theatre opening date on Freedom Dr. is 10/22/16.

• The City is investigating options to retain affordable housing at the Brookhill apartments site.

• City Council has pledged to open 5000 units of afffordable housing units in 3 years

• Early voting starts 10/20/2016

• Rezoning meeting to discuss 174+\- unit apartment complex on Ashley Rd is @ Westover Precint on Tuesday 10/25/16

Carolyn Prather, CMPD gave safety update

• No break-ins to report in the neighborhood since last month (1 resident mentioned theft from their vehicle during officer Prather's report)

• Continue to be vigilant about removing valuables from cars to discourage thefts

Tommy Harris, President Camp Greene NA

• Proposed we use monthly meetings to set agendas & goals and assign groups to meet separately to work on details and report back

• Treasurer position to be filled by vote at December meeting

• Charlotte Hornets have adopted Camp Greene Park and will be improving it

• Cleanup for our adopted stretch of stream (parallel to Freedom from Camp Green to Berryhill) will be 11/05 (Saturday)

• Suggested a group meet up soon to clean wooded area adjacent to Spaugh ourselves since City and County are not being responsive.

• Focusing on getting 501c3 (nonprofit) status to aid in getting sponsorship from businesses. Annual cost to maintain is $400/yr.

• We have been awarded a $1300 grant for tree banding. 2 volunteer events will be organized to do the banding once we have the materials.

Marika Christie, Caldwell Banker Commercial

• Works on Wilkinson and has a great interest in the area. She has started a Wilkinson Blvd Newsletter.

• Contact her if you would like to join the email list to receive the newsletter [email protected]

Eddie Johnson, Secretary CGNA reported on recent Camp Greene Centennial Planning mtg

• Eddie and Cynthia Harrison attended a meeting at the Historic Landmarks Commission regarding the Camp Greene Centennial Celebration on 10/07/16.

• Others in attendance were:

  • Dan Morrill, Director HLC

  • Heather Perry, UNCC History Dept.

  • Aaron Shapiro, UNCC History Dept.

  • Jim Johnson, AIA

  • Sheila Bumgarner, Carolina Room at Charmeck Public Library

  • Jack Dillard, Director of Camp Greene Documentary

  • Edward Hardison, Board of Directors Charlotte Pipe & Foundry & Pres. Dowd Foundation

  • Mike Campbell, Mecklenburg County Parks & Rec.

  • Neal Broome, meeting organizer

• Not much was discussed about the centennial event. The topic quickly became the use and future of the Dowd House

• Parks and Rec committed to having the Dowd House ready for the public by the event date (07/17/2017).

• Parks & Rec welcomes volunteer help but will hire an environmental company to clean the house.

• Parks and Rec has 4.1 million in the County's budget for deferred maintenance at Parks & Rec properties and they anticipate spending $25,000 on the Dowd House

• Sheila Bumgarner is working on a project to document who the 300 influenza victims @ Camp Greene were and possibly include the list in the Centennial Celebration while continuing to work on a more permanent monument or exhibit.

• She also mentioned that the library has items relevant to Camp Greene that can be lent to the centennial event

• Heather Perry had suggestions on loan programs s/a research scholar grants or NEH Dialogues on the Experience of War program to fund intern/grad student research projects related to Camp Greene

• She also suggested approaching challenged corporations in need of good PR such as Wells Fargo and Duke Energy for funding.

• Another suggestion was approaching VFW groups about adopting the Dowd House as a project

• Dan Morrill advised the participants that if a sustainable use or program is not developed for the Dowd House within the next 2 years, his recommendation to the County will be to place protective covenants on the deed and sell it.

• Cynthia attempted to redirect the conversation back to planning the Centennial celebration and expressed her interest to be involved in planning the event

9/20/16 Meeting

Aretha Blake, candidate for District Court Judge was present and introduced herself to the group

Phillip Freeman and Cherie Grant addressed the group and explained details of the City matching grants program

• Deadlines to submit applications are March 1, June 1, and September 1

• At least 50% of the community's match must come from volunteer hours

• Camp Greene NHA is tier 1, eligible for a matching grant up to $25,0000

• Festivals can only be funded by matching grants for two years

• Other projects are only eligible for 1 year

• The grants are meant to fund sustainable projects (projects that will eventually not need the grant funding)

• Our group has applied for matching grant funds for tree banding this year

• Approval is required before work starts on grant projects

• Payments are made to the group to reimburse expenditures (City will not pay the bills for us)

• for questions or additional info or contact Cherie at [email protected] or Phillip at [email protected]

Elizabeth Lamy also spoke

• Elizabeth was our former Code Enforcement Officer

• Her replacement in that role has quit already and the position is vacant

• Continue to report Code Enforcement Issues to 311 and they will be dealt with

• She is now Program Coordinator for the City's Targeted Rehabilitation Program

• Camp Greene and Lincoln Heights are the test communities

• Funding comes from the City Housing Trust Fund

• Funds are available to rehab 60-80 homes

• Homeowners earning up to 80% of area's median income are eligible for 100% deferred improvement loans up to $42,000

• Homeowners earning 80%-100% of median income can have $1500/year forgiven for 28 years or $3800/yr if they invest in the renovation as well

• Landlords/investors are eligible for up to $25,000

• Distributed surveys to gauge interest in the program

• Survey is available online @ www.charlottenc.gov/housing and then select Targeted Rehabilitation Survey button

• Survey is also available by phone. Call 704-336-3333 and leave a message with your name and phone number. A staff member will call you back.

• Information is also available in Spanish

• Spread the word

Carolyn gave public safety update

• no big news

• House on Greenland Ave (middle of block, opposite from the Dowd property) that has all the cars traffic was investigated by code enforcement and determined not to be a boarding house. No word on what is really going on there. The case is considered closed by Code Enforcement but neighbors should continue to report suspicious activity.

Cynthia introduced Stephanie Edwards

• Stephanie lives on Morton Street

• She has grand children attending Ashley Park School

• The school has not had an active PTSA group in 10 years

• Stephanie stepped up and got it going again

• Looking for tutors and mentors for the students

• exploring ways we as a neighborhood can contribute

Sue Colucci gave update on City Neighborhood Awards

• She submitted the CGNA for the Good Neighbors Award

• She highlighted our Adopt-a-Street & Stream efforts, community involvement of neighbors and new social media accounts and website

• Awards will be announced at 10/1/16 banquet

• Cynthia and Joshua are planning to attend

Other business

• Tommy Harris was elected president of the group (16 for/1 against)

• Nominations for office of Treasurer were taken

• Patsy Locke, Malcolm and Anthony Johnson all expressed interest in being treasurer

• Richard expressed interest in organizing a haunted trail/house as a fundraiser for the group (2017)

• Dowd house/property was suggested as venue if permission can be obtained from Parks & Rec

8/16/16 Meeting

• Meeting minutes are now available on Historiccampgreene.com

• Financial update

  • $96 in our checking account

  • Account costs $15/month to maintain

  • The account isn’t setup as we were previously told, changes coming …

• Neil presented info on Camp Greene Centennial Celebration

  • Celebration will be July 2017

  • Seeking volunteers for steering committee

  • Signup sheet for volunteers was passed around

• Cynthia gave update on Fall Festival

  • Gloria is donating hairnets and gloves for food area

  • Volunteers are needed for the food area & also floating volunteers to assist wherever needed on day of event

  • Volunteer signup sheets were made available at the meeting and are also available on the website

  • Yard sale participants are not chargedbut a donation to CGNA is suggested

  • Participants must preregister and also provide their own tables

  • Queen City Joy Ride is sponsoring a bike ride and will provide bikes, etc.

  • Children’s area will include a bounce house

  • Businesses that have been contacted:

    • Mecca - confirmed sponsor

    • Blue Blaze Brewing

    • Silver Wolf

    • Harvest Center

    • Rhino Deli - confirmed sponsor

    • Premier Smiles

    • Harrison Family

    • Graybar donating use of parking lot, possibly additional donation

    • 5/3 and Wells Fargo Banks

  • More sponsors are sought. People are encouraged to reach out to businesses or make suggestions of sponsors to festival committee members

  • Event is 9 am to 4 pm 9/17/16, rain or shine. Volunteers need to arrive @ 7 am.

  • Food and activities are free

  • Monitor facebook page for updates

• Tommy updated group on Cleanup Efforts

  • The Adopt-A-Street Cleanup will be 9-11 am 09/10/16 and will include some cleanup around the Dowd House in preparation for the Festival

  • Volunteers will meet @ 2318 Arty Ave @ 9:00 am

  • Warehouse 242 cannot participate in their previously scheduled cleanup along Berryhill this Saturday. Tommy will lead the Cleanup without them.

  • Volunteers for this Saturday’s (08/20/16) clean up will meet at 2318 Arty Ave at 9:00 am

  • Supplies (gloves, grabbers, bags) are provided for the cleanups

  • Christ Presbyterian is seeking volunteers to help move/install mulch starting @ 10:00 am Saturday 10/20/16.

• Lawana Mayfield addressed the group

  • She is still working with code enforcement to clean up overgrown areas in the neighborhood

  • Plans to clear overgrowth on Columbus Circle, esp. around lights are proceeding

  • The homeless housing project at the Park-N-Shop site is unoffially dead

  • She has been working with Neighborhood & Business Services for the past 1.5-2 years on a new program that will be unveiled in our neighborhood at the Fall Festival

• Katie presented info on tree banding

  • She attended the class on the tree banding program

  • Funding is available to band trees on private property

  • Volunteers sought(deadline to sign up is Sept. )

  • Signup sheet was made available at the meeting or volunteer by contacting Katie

  • Circulated comment cards to group to rank/suggest potential projects

• Malcolm shared information on City of Charlotte Matching Grants

  • Malcolm attended a class at the City to learn more about the grants

  • We are eligible for up to $25,000 in matching grants per project

  • We are eligible to submit multiple projects

  • He was told that a something centered around the Dowd House would be a great project and an excellent way to use the grant funds to improve the property

  • In-kind donations of time by volunteers is $23.07 per volunteer per hour

  • Malcom suggested we bring in/hire a consultant to help secure grants

• Josh will schedule a speaker from the City to come address the group about the grant program at a future meeting.

• Michael with Parks and Rec introduced himself and spoke briefly about Parks and Rec and the Dowd House.

7/19/16 Meeting 

• Attendees asked to use new sign in sheets

• Sign in sheets to support matching grants and meeting agenda courtesy of Malcolm

• Lawana Mayfield's intern attended in her place

• Stop signs were approved & should be installed within the next 40 days

• Discussed transparency in organization

  • Group officers/positions are:

    • Joshua Prescott, President

    • Cynthia Harrison, Vice President/Chair or Fall Festival Committee

    • Tommy Harris, Neighborhood cleanup Committee

    • Brian Fincher is still our Treasurer and will start providing financial reports to the group

    • Katie Lloyd - Technology guru/ social media accounts

    • Malcolm will take on overseeing grant applications (needs 2 additional volunteers?)

    • Eddie Johnson, Secretary - meeting minutes, mtg reminder emails, mtg banners

• Katie will add meeting minutes and officers/committee chair contact info to website

• Neighborhood President

  • Joshua will be stepping down as president effective 10/16

  • Cynthia not interested in assuming role, volunteers sought

  • Tommy Harris is interested in taking over role of President

  • Group decided to vote at later date

• Community Clean Up

  • Tommy announced a new Cleanup around the Dowd House the Saturday prior to the Fall Festival, 09/10/16.

  • We have adopted Monument St., Arty Ave, and Greenland Ave and Stewart Creek from Camp Greene St. to Morehead St.

  • Some residents had concerns that Columbus Circle area is being left out. They were invited to lead the effort to include that area.

  • Logan will lead an effort to organize a clean up along Columbus Circle with Help from Ola

  • Tommy will look into the possibility of adopting Columbus Circle and Marlowe Ave as well, but we must adopt a min. 1 mile of roadway

  • Our first Stewart Creek Cleanup will occur sometime after festival

• Organization of meeting was criticized. Robert's Rules of Order suggested

• Group voted to officially oppose Urban Ministry's Shelter project

• Festival update from Cynthia:

  • 09/17 @ the Dowd House - save the date!

  • Festivities will include kids programs, bike rides/tours, vendors, + more to come

  • Group is seeking festival sponsors from local businesses. Camp Greene website now has a "Donate" function

  • The festival is definate (with or without additional donations)

  • Katie will lead a design charrette @ the festival to brainstorm uses for the Dowd House (to be presented to Meck BOCC at a later date)

• Crime & Public Safety update (Carolynn Pierce):

  • one of residents we were told had warrants last month has since been arrested in SC on murder charges.

  • CALL 911!!!!! When in doubt, call and report it

  • Armed Robbery on Millerton (outside Morehead West Apts). One arrest made

  • House "shot up" on Morton St.

  • One person arrested in shooting at Reba's. Two suspects still believed to be at large

  • Boarding House on Remount fined and shut down due to illegal activity. Owner required to convert to single family dwelling.

  • Metro should be back to full staff by Sept although it is a training area so officers don't stay long

  • Reiterated that Metro is smallest and busiest response area (11 square miles)

  • Will give her contact info to Katie to put on website

    • Carolynn Prather, CMPD-Metro Division

    • 704-336-8300

    • [email protected]

• Roger & Pam Walters from Westerly Hills Assoc. addressed the group:

  • Dale Mullenix will attend their 09/26 meeting

  • Camp Greene neighbors are invited to attend

  • Meeting is Tuesday, 09/26 7:00 PM @ CMPD Freedom Division West Service Center on Wilkinson Blvd

  • They were given a tour of Moore Place by Urban Ministries

  • Proposed shelter will be 120 beds for chronically homeless people

  • Facility will follow "Housing First" model; no requirements for employment or treatment of addiction or mental health issues

6/21/16  Meeting

• Meeting was opened with quick agenda overview outlining discussion of stop signs and recent shootings. Discussion of proposed shelter was not on agenda.

• Opposition caused halt to stop sign process

• Open (heated) discussion of stop sign issues; Speakers given 2 minutes each

• John from Columbus Circle asked several times for detail about enforcement of current speed limits and future stop signs. No answer was given.

• A new vote was taken concerning stop signs with (27 in favor of them, 6 against and 2 abstaining)

• Josh announced that the board has decided that terms for group officers will be 2 years. No mention of when this was discussed or what board members were present.

• Shelter issue was addressed.

• Majority of speakers were opposed. No official stance was taken

• Use of group accounts by members to voice personal opinions was addressed

• Concerns with shelter location included: concentration of such services in our area, influence on crime rates, influence on development and property values, misinformation that has been put out about neighbor support, the neighborhood's past and current issues with crime.

• Fall Festival update:

  • No new info

  • 9/17 @ the Dowd House

  • activities will include kids events and a yard sale

• Councilwoman Mayfield addressed group:

  • addressed/encouraged neighbor participation. Reminded us that attending meetings counts towards matching grants ($22.50 per hour per attendee)

  • Addressed questions about speedhump installation and why CDOT won't approve them for Camp Greene St.

  • roundabout coming to Berryhill & Tuckaseegee (5 pts) intersection

  • aware of "Trap House" on Columbus Circle

  • working with CMPD & Code enforcement to address that and other issues

  • City to begin clearing overgrowth and trash in area between Columbus Circle & Berryhill

  • Email Lawana with details of any additional areas that need cleaning/clearing

  • She is opposed to the proposed shelter location at the old Park-N-Shop. The rest of the City Council is supportive.

  • Council was told the surrounding neighborhoods support the shelter

  • Email the entire council (not just her) to share your concerns or support

  • No rezoning is required for a shelter at this location. Urban Ministries needs financial support from City Council so they have a say in the location and our neighborhood has a chance to have influence that say.

  • New farmer's market opening @ Rosa Parks ctr

  • Working on a project to assist homeowners with trees in need of trimming

  • In response to comment about incorporating a job fair into fall festival mentioned that she has organized them in our neighborhood in the past and had no one show up. She does have info on local companies that are hiring and will post them to her Facebook page

  • Median annual income in our neighborhood is $16,000

  • In response to inquiry from Travis Morgan: the neighborhood can draft a letter of resolution in support or opposition of shelter and send it to council

• CMPD update (Officer Carolynn Pierce)

  • 2 armed robberies in last month

  • Officers have been posted on Columbus Circle in anticipation of retaliation

  • latest shooting occured shortly after officers left to respond to a call

  • shootings all stem from the same house on Columbus Circle that has been discussed before

  • CMPD is shortstaffed. No backup was available to officers Saturday evening.

  • Metro is smallest division & has the most calls

  • They have warrants for two individuals from that property

  • Register bicycles to make recovery easier in event of theft. Email your bike VIN to [email protected]

  • Mopeds are now required to be registered in NC

  • Suggested we make use of City matching grants to make improvements that will boost safety such as streetlights in dark areas.

5/17/16 Meeting

• Joshua absent; meeting conducted by Cynthia

• Cynthia introduced herself and had everyone present do the same

• Shannon Farrell/Logan Bennet, both new residents in Bryant park introduced themselves, & are eager to get involved

• Store @ 2210 W. Morehead is officially closed

• Stop sign has been approved but is delayed

• Swingset @ Dowd House has been requested

• Former Urban Restoration Bldg on Remount has been bought by Belmont Community Partnership

• Greg & Eli spoke against stop sign @ Marlowe & Camp Greene

4/19/16 Meeting

• City to demo old firehouse on Remount Rd & add to Greenspace

• Stop sign procedure started to (@ locations previously discussed)

• Sept. 17, 2016 tenative date for Fall Festival

  • Yard sale may be included in festival if there is interest

  • Eddie to find out info on $2500 city grant for festival

  • Bryant Park suggested as alternate location

  • Cynthia reached out to Vilma Leakes Re: Dowd House preservation and got no reply

  • See Cynthia for volunteer opportunities for Fall Festival

  • Katie Lloyd spoke with Rhino Deli owners – they’re interested to be involved in neighborhood

• Group voted to proceed with adopting a street/stream

• Report on items discussed @ board retreat

• Public Safety Report by Carolyn Pierce:

  • Shootings at 2400/2402 Marlowe Ave

  • Suspects have been arrested placed under $350,000 bond

  • CMPD having trouble contacting absentee landlord

  • Boarding House permite issued for 2406 Remount – old tenants and mgr evicted

  • Crack down on speeders along Camp Greene St planned

  • Panhandling is on the rise – report to 911

• There was a heated discussion of friendly approach to problems in neighborhood versus calling authorities as a first approach

• As the meeting was ending, Joshua brought up that Urban ministries is hoping to build Homeless facility on the old Park N Shop property on Wilkinson. He and Amelia have already been discussing the project with Urban Ministries Director Dale Mullenix. Group agreed to at least hear out Mr mullenix and instructed Joshua to schedule him to come address the group.

3/15/16 Meeting

• Art festival has been postponed. New date TBD

• Tommy Harris presented results from the Spring Clean-up. It was a big success with 38 bags of trash collected, 10 bags of recyclables, misc. bulky items

• The group decided to schedule more clean-up efforts per year & continue to discussion of adopting a neighborhood street

• Possibility of a community Yard Sale was discussed – potentially as part of festival

• Possibility of Organizing a voter drive was brought up as potential outreach tool

• Volunteers were sought to attend City Neighborhood Board Retreat

• City is considering sale of Historic Dowd House

• Group was made aware that CGNA does not currently have access to Dowd House due to measures taken by Parks and Rec after the property was Vandalised

• Public Safety update presented by Carolynn Pierce with CMPD

  • CMPD is cracking down on keys being left in vehicles

  • CMPD spending more time on Columbus Circle following latest murder (both victim and suspect live in neighborhood but shooting happened elsewhere)

  • Property crimes are higher around the new construction in Bryant Park