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March 2016 General Meeting Minutes

March 2016 SRG GENERAL MEMBERSHIP MEETING

March 2, 2016

Location: Sts. Peter and Paul Catholic Church, 1919 S. 7th St.

President-Elect Bill Clendenin called the meeting to order at 7:04 p.m. 

Board members in attendance: Beth Bennett, Bill Clendenin, Sean Cochran, Jeremy Mehrle, Jackie Parker, Steve Parker

Board members absent: Luann Denten, Alicia Stellhorn, Gary Toribio, Mike Ziemann

Elected officials in attendance: Alderman Jack Coatar and Alderman Ken Ortmann

Guests: Todd Waelterman, St. Louis City Director of Operations

New members: None 

Candidates: Patrick Hamacher, a candidate for St. Louis Circuit Attorney, and Marty Murray Jr., a candidate for 7th Ward Committeeman, introduced themselves during the new members part of the meeting.

Secretary’s Minutes: Minutes from the Feb. 3 General Membership Meeting and the Feb. 24 Board Meeting were approved.

Treasurer’s Report: Treasurer’s Report was approved.

Post-Meeting Social: At Soulard Station, 1911 S. 12 St.

City Earnings Tax Presentation: Todd Waelterman, St. Louis City Director of Operations, made a presentation on behalf of renewing the City Earnings Tax, which is on the April 5 ballot. Waelterman, former Streets Director, stated:

 St. Louis’ 1 percent Earnings Tax has existed since 1959.

 Because of a statewide vote in 2010, it faces a renewal vote of city voters every five years. 

 In 2011, its renewal was approved by 88 percent of voters.

 The tax generates about $164 million a year, about one-third of the city’s revenues. 

 55 percent of the Earning Tax revenue is generated by non-residents.

 If the tax isn’t renewed, sales taxes and property taxes would greatly increase.

In response to a question, Waelterman agreed that replacement sources of revenue need to be found in case renewal is ever denied.

He also fielded a question about parking tickets and street cleaning, and said that the Citizens Service Bureau (314-622-4800) is the office to call if a scheduled street cleaning is missed.

Police Report: Officer Brian Min reported these crime statistics for February:

 Three assaults, all Mardi Gras-related 

 Seven stolen autos, two of which had the keys inside 

 One burglary of a garage 

 One robbery (Two people were robbed separately by the same suspect. The suspect stole a woman’s purse off a patio table at the Bastille, 1027 Russell Blvd., and then robbed the second victim of a cellphone and wallet at gunpoint while fleeing.)

 18 larcenies, including 13 car break-ins. One arrest was made.

 Four instances of property damage, three related to Mardi Gras 

Officer Min said there were 43 crimes related to Mardi Gras. Police wrote 19 summonses, 18 of them for underage drinking. There were 15 lost articles. A gun was recovered after it was dropped by someone who had been involved in a streetfight fleeing the scene. All in all, he said, it was “a pretty quiet Mardi Gras.”

Officer Min noted the neighborhood’s representation at a sentencing hearing for a parolee who had been released after serving 17 years of a 20-year term for a murder conviction and was sentenced Feb. 19 to a four-year term in an air-conditioning theft.  

Old Business:

Board Elections: Clendenin read the names of four people who have been nominated for Board positions to be voted on at the April 6 SRG General Membership Meeting. Three Board offices (President-Elect, Treasurer and Secretary) and two Directors seats are up for election. 

Jim Price and Wade Weistreich have been nominated for President-Elect, a three-year term. 

Chris Schwarz has been nominated for Treasurer, a one-year term. Venessa Kobrin has been nominated for Secretary, a one-year term. 

New Business: None

American Legion Post 422 Report: Mr. Bill Wirtel reported that:

 The date of the Mouse Races fundraiser in 2017 has moved from January to March so that attendance is less dependent on the weather. The Mouse Races will now be held on the first Saturday in March, which will be March 4, 2017.

 A Fifth Friday Bingo and Buffet was held Jan. 29 for 17 new rehabbing veterans at Jefferson Barracks Medical Center. All of the rehabbing veterans who were at the October 2015 Fifth Friday had been discharged.

 Post 422 has collected $3,000 in its effort to provide a flag for McKinley Public Classical Leadership Academy High School, 2156 Russell Blvd., which doesn’t have a flag or flag pole in front of the school. Mr. Bill again thanked the SRG for its $500 donation. Principal Steve Warmack is planning a special ceremony.

 The Legion was busy on Mardi Gras Grand Parade Day, once again serving biscuits and gravy.

 The first Lenten Cod Fish Fry this year Feb. 2 was a huge success. Others are scheduled March 4 and March 25.  Doors open at 5 p.m. 

 Legion Post 422 participated in the ceremony Feb. 28 marking the temporary closing of the Soldier Memorial Military Museum, 1315 Chestnut St.  The facility is undergoing a two-year, $30 million renovation. Some events that would have been held there will now take place at City Hall, 1200 Market St.

 Seven Third Friday Family Happy Hours are booked for 2016, starting April 15 through October 21. 

Soulard Business Association Report: No report.

Mardi Gras Inc. Report: The post-Mardi Gras public forum is scheduled for 6 p.m. March 3 at the MGI building, 2200 Dolman St.

Beautification Report: After the April 6 SRG General Membership Meeting, the Beautification Committee will host the social at the bandstand in Soulard Market Park.  The committee would appreciate help on April 2 as it cleans up in preparation.

At 9 a.m. on Saturday, April 23, the Weed Warriors will be joined by 20 to 30 volunteers from Saint Louis University sororities and fraternities for work at Pontiac Square Park. If enough people are present, a crew might break off and do work at Aboussie Park on South 13th Street near Sidney Street.  Three dying or dead trees were removed from Pontiac Square Park.

Cleanup work took place March 2 in the small triangle park at South 9th and Sidney streets. A car accident there left debris and caused damage. 

Communications Report: No report.

Code and Zoning Report: Jay Gibbs reminded residents to call the Citizens Service Bureau (622-4800) if they see something amiss.  His committee advises the city but doesn’t enforce.

He gave updates on several projects:

Lafayette School Apartments:  The renovation with 36 units will have two , a small sign by the door and a larger one on the east side on South 7th Street. He said a proposal to backlight the larger sign had been dropped and the sign has been approved by Cultural Resources. A proposal for two paneled garage doors was tabled.

109-13 Allen Avenue: UIC, a design and building firm, bought the historic house and lot next to it and proposed a front house and alley house, both new construction with what Gibbs termed “strikingly contemporary” design. The proposal was made to the committee, which signaled its disapproval, to the apparent surprise of the builder. A follow-up email explaining the committee’s reasoning has been sent.

Polar Wave Construction: At the meeting Feb. 29, a proposal for a large infill was presented. Polar Wave wants to buy Victor Ironworks and demolish the Industrial Steel Corp. building.  A drawing was shown of a five-story building with 115 units, with 86 parking spaces off-street behind it. The committee thought it was too contemporary, but was told that the drawing had been speedily prepared just to have something to show. Committee members questioned the density, noting the 115 units would be in addition to the 43 at Polar Wave. A five-story building also might not fit in with what code suggests for the site.  

Gibbs was asked about the corrugated paneling on the Polar Wave building, and he replied that it has been approved by the city and was not brought before the SRG.

Apartments at 2330 S. 12th St.: Gibbs reminded that Alex Oliver bought the old “Soulard Hilton,” which has operated as a boarding house since it was built in the 1890s.  Gibbs noted that it has been low-income rental property with 24 units. The plan called for 13 apartments, four each on the first, second and third floors and one basement unit. Oliver is seeking state and federal tax credits. Gibbs said the Code and Zoning Committee toured the building early-on and gave its preliminary okay for the project. The plan now calls for 14 apartments, including two ADA units in the basement. At a Plan Review Team meeting, Alderman Coatar called for as much parking as possible.  The plan called for six spaces behind the building, including one ADA spot. A variance hearing at City Hall is scheduled for March 30. 

Some neighbors, Gibbs said, are upset about the density of units and lack of parking. Gibbs said the Plan Review Team reviewed the question of density and thought it was big enough for 14 units. He said the team also thought the proposal for parking was acceptable. Gibbs said he personally visited the site one afternoon and evening and found ample street parking available.

Joy Christensen, who lives immediately north of the proposed project, said that she feared a parking overflow would lower property values. She said that in the previous boarding house setting, only about three residents had owned cars. She also said that she feared that the units might not rent for $900, but might only draw $500. Gibbs replied that the rental market in Soulard is strong. Christensen said that lofts would be a better use of the location.

Gibbs said that if someone doesn’t like a decision of the Plan and Zoning Committee, the SRG bylaws allow for the membership to ask the SRG Board to overturn the decision. Beth Bennett, an SRG Board member and Plan and Zoning Committee member, said that the “Soulard Hilton was a dump” and that she found the rehab proposal exciting.

Paul Kjorlie said that fewer young people own cars than in years past, perhaps lessening concerns over street parking.

Alderman Coatar thanked the Plan Review Team for the time it puts into reviewing proposals and said he greatly appreciates the help they provide him.

Fundraising Report: Smarty Gras Trivia Night Feb. 20 raised more than $6,000.

A cheer station will again be staged at 7:30 a.m. April 10 at South 9th and Victor streets for the GO! Marathon and half-marathon runners.  Canned goods will be collected to benefit the food pantry at Trinity Lutheran Church in Soulard. 

Membership Report: The next Membership Committee meeting is at 7 p.m. March 3 at Soulard Station. 

Residential Promotion Report: The next meeting will be March 7 at Luann Denten’s home.

Safety Report: Scott Plackemeier stressed the importance of signing neighborhood impact petitions. The Spring Safety Walk will follow the April 6 SRG General Membership Meeting. The committee meets on the last Monday of every month at Soulard Station.

Adjournment: The meeting adjourned at 8:13 p.m.

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February 2016 Board Meeting Minutes

SRG Board Meeting Minutes

Wednesday, Feb. 24, 2016 at Soulard Station, 1911 S. 12th St.

The meeting was called to order at 7:06 p.m. by President Mike Ziemann.

Members present: Mike Ziemann, Beth Bennett, Sean Cochran, Bill Clendenin, Luann Denten, Jeremy Mehrle, Jackie Parker, Steve Parker, Gary Toribio

Members absent: Alicia Stellhorn

Guests: Author Jim Merkel and Sue Jackson of the German-American Heritage Society of St. Louis.
Proposal for honorary renaming of a block of South 7th Street as Bismarck Street:
Jim Merkel (author of “Scrubby Dutch” and “Beer, Brats and Baseball”) and Sue Jackson made a presentation on behalf of an honorary renaming of a block of South 7th Street between Lami and Barton Streets as Bismarck Street. The German-American Heritage Society is seeking honorary street status for six St. Louis City streets that had their original German names changed during World War I. The city has granted honorary designations for three streets: Knapstein Place (Providence Place), Habsburger Avenue (Cecil Place) and Kaiser Street (Gresham Avenue). The original Bismarck Street, created in 1881 and 1882, no longer exists, but was close to the 7th Street location. Merkel provided copies of City Ordinance 68937, which provides for designating honorary street names. He said that 60 percent of registered voters or business owners in the affected area would have to approve of the proposal, and that the German-American Heritage Society of St. Louis would pay the cost of the signs and installation by the city Streets Department.
Luann Denten noted that because Soulard is a Historic District, the plan would need review by the city’s Cultural Resource office. She also noted that when the Soulard entry markers were installed recently, proof of liability insurance was required. Merkel said that the city ordinance did not mention those areas. 
After making the presentation, Merkel and Jackson departed and the SRG Board discussed the proposal. 
President Ziemann noted that as a courtesy, Alderman Jack Coatar had asked the Society to make sure the SRG didn’t object to the proposal. Bill Clendenin suggested that the SRG Board contact Jay Gibbs to determine if this issue has come up before and if the Code and Zoning Committee has adopted any policies regarding such signs.
Luann Denten cautioned that a wave of requests for honorary street names could result, and Ziemann added that future SRG Boards should not regard approval of this one request as a precedent.
The Board voted to approve a motion stating that it doesn’t oppose the proposal for the honorary Bismarck Street designation provided that the German-American Heritage Society of St. Louis seek approval from the Cultural Resources office, and that there’s no history of any previous street renaming effort that was rejected, and that the SRG would in no way be liable for any insurance required. 

Treasurer’s Report: 
The Treasurer’s Report was reviewed.

Old Business:Improvements at Soulard Station:Vicki and Jay Morris made a presentation on behalf of two proposed improvements at Soulard Station: the extension of the concrete sidewalk around the rear of the building and a single-zone HVAC system to improve cooling in the main room of the building. Three bids were presented for the sidewalk extension and four bids were presented for the air-conditioning proposal. The Morrises answered some logistical questions posed by the Board. The Board approved a bid of $1,650 for the sidewalk project and a bid of $3,800 for the HVAC work, which includes the unit, installation, running electric, finishing and drywall repair and upgrading existing ductwork.

Board Elections:
The Board went into executive session to discuss nominations and prospective candidates for the April 6 Board Election. A President-Elect, Treasurer, Secretary and two Directors are to be chosen.

Spending Projects Update:
Three Board members provided updates on proposals for spending surplus SRG funds.
Historic street lights: Beth Bennett said it would cost about $200,000 per block to convert to historic street lights. While that would make the project cost-prohibitive, she said grants for such projects are available.

Historic markers: Luann Denten said she had received two bids and was awaiting three others for signage to mark historic sites in Soulard for a walking tour. Board members discussed possible sizes for the signs and the merits of cast lettering vs. lasered lettering. It was suggested that any walking tour and signs might include some newer structures as examples of new construction that can be done in a historic context.Security cameras: Clendenin gave an update on the new security cameras to be installed in Soulard. He said that the new cameras that are up now are temporary and were placed there for Mardi Gras. 

A contractor for installing the new cameras has been selected, a walk-through will be conducted and a meeting with city officials will be held, after which the proposal will be refined. The goal is to finalize a contract in March and then commence installation as soon as possible.

New Business:

Mardi Gras Debriefing:Board members said some traffic stops by security personnel in the Yellow Zone were conducted in a lax manner. Overall, behavior in the Red Zone was civil. Board members said they had heard concerns about the logistics of the Grand Parade. Gary Toribio said Mardi Gras Inc. Board members would be discussing a proposal for more marching groups in the parade, the timing of floats, and replacing the volunteer coordinator who left.

MGI’s public forum on this year’s Mardi Gras will be March 3 at the Mardi Gras Inc. building, 2200 Dolman St.

March Board Meeting:

President Ziemann said he remains uncertain whether work commitments might prevent him from attending the March 16 SRG Board meeting, or whether they might block alternate dates in March as well. President-Elect Bill Clendenin will run the meeting if Ziemann is unable to  attend.

Committee Reports:

Beautification: The Art in the Garden tour is scheduled for June 25. Amy Grove is in training to chair the event next year. 

Communication: No report.

Code and Zoning: A sign on the front of the renovated Lafayette School apartments will be smaller than what was originally proposed. A larger sign will be on the garage but it will not be backlit as originally proposed.  The garage will have two vehicle openings, including an entrance on the front of the building to make traffic flow more efficient.

Fundraising: Smarty Gras Trivia Night on Feb. 20 grossed about $5,800. Attendance was down to 15 tables of 10 players each, but revenue generated through raffle tickets, balloon pop and the silent auction all increased.
A cheer station is again planned for the GO! Marathon on Sunday April 10.

Membership: The committee hopes to increase the number of events it holds this year. A field trip to the Fox Theatre is being planned for a Saturday in July and will include a visit backstage.  A terrarium-building workshop is under consideration.  The committee also may hold a wrestling night event at the Broadway Athletic Club, 2301 S. 7th St. A lunch may be held at the Fountain on Locust, 3037 Locust St.

Residential Promotion: Soulard flags were reordered and are available for purchase. Sales of the Soulard Star sterling silver earrings and necklaces have been good. With the restaurant Franco out of business, the fashion show during Bastille Days will have to relocate. One possibility is the South Broadway Athletic Club, 2301 S. 7th St. In addition to the fashion show, Bastille Days events may include a Run for Your Cake, and a dance with a DJ. A bicycle race, as was done years ago, is also a possibility.

Safety: Clendenin said committee members gained some insight at a sentencing hearing Friday, Feb. 19, for a parole being sentenced for stealing an air-conditioning unit. The judge noted that while signatures on neighborhood impact statements are useful to the court, residents don’t have the right to speak at sentencings. Victims do have the right to speak and it’s important for them to show up to demonstrate the impact of crime on their lives, the judge advised.

Mardi Gras Inc.: No formal meeting was held in February.

It is expected that the Executive Director’s contract will be resolved by April. The post-Mardi Gras public forum is Thursday, March 3, at the MGI building, 2200 Dolman St.

Renaissance: The deadline for the next edition, the Garden Tour edition, is May 13.

Soulard Station: Nothing besides the sidewalk and air-conditioning projects approved earlier in the meeting. It was noted that some events at Soulard Station are booked more than a year in advance. In the interest of ensuring that the neighborhood has first rights to the building, it was suggested that bookings for more than a year out not be allowed. 

Adjournment: The meeting adjourned at 9:47 p.m.

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February 2016 General Meeting Minutes

February 2016 SRG GENERAL MEMBERSHIP MEETING

Feb. 3, 2016

Location: Sts. Peter and Paul Catholic Church, 1919 S. 7th St.

President Mike Ziemann called the meeting to order at 7:08 p.m.

Board members in attendance: Mike Ziemann, Beth Bennett, Bill Clendenin, Sean Cochran, Luann Denten, Jeremy Mehrle, Jackie Parker, Steve Parker, Gary Toribio

Board members absent: Alicia Stellhorn

Elected officials in attendance: Alderman Jack Coatar and Alderman Ken Ortmann

Secretary’s Minutes:
Minutes from the Jan. 13 General Membership Meeting and the Jan. 27 Board Meeting were approved.

Treasurer’s Report:
The Treasurer’s Report was approved. President Ziemann highlighted a statement by Treasurer Stellhorn that was reported in the Jan. 27 Board Meeting minutes: “She said that misleading information was being circulated about the SRG’s total assets. The total assets figure of $212,349.93 that shows on the Balance Sheet would only apply if the SRG were to sell Soulard Station and the property it sits upon, fixed assets of about $152,000.”
Ziemann noted that the SRG is about halfway through the year in terms of spending but already two-thirds done with fundraising.

New Members:
Two new members introduced themselves.

Post-Meeting Social:
At the home of Beth Bennett, 2624 S. 12th St.

Police and Safety Committee Report:
President Ziemann introduced Officer Brian Min and Sgt. Kimberly Haley.

Safety Committee Co-Chairman Jim Rick presented the report. He said that January had been a relatively quiet month, with no bad assaults. He said there was one robbery, still unsolved; one carjacking; and a burglary in which entry was made via a forced front window. He said one victim reported a stolen firearm but didn’t know if the weapon was taken from the house or car. GCI issued a summons for panhandling.

Officer Min reported that a suspect was arrested Feb. 1 and charged after a house burglary in Benton Park, and he also has been charged with an October burglary in Soulard. The suspect had been sentenced to seven years in prison after a prior burglary conviction but the sentence was suspended after 120 days of shock time. 

A brief discussion was held on when to call police and when to call Mardi Gras Inc. to report crimes and problems during Mardi Gras. Guidelines are on Page 2 of the Soulard Renaissance and also in the Jan. 13 SRG General Membership Meeting minutes.

Old Business:

SRG Board Positions:
The President-Elect, Treasurer, Secretary and two Director positions are up for election. The Secretary and two Directors currently in office have indicated that they will not seek re-election. Anyone with questions about serving on the Board can contact any Board member. Ziemann asked members at the meeting to encourage their friends to serve. People who have served previously are allowed to run again. Preferably, nominations will be made by the March meeting, although they will be taken up until the ballot is printed for the election in April.

New Business:

No Mardi Gras Event at Soulard Station
No beer fundraiser or party will be held this year at Soulard Station on Grand Parade Day. Because beer sales are so dependent on weather, such an event might only break even or could lose money. Ziemann said that anyone who is upset at the lack of an event there should talk to him or any Board member.

Judith Howard said Howards in Soulard, 2732 S. 13th St., would be open on Grand Parade Day for a neighborhood party. Half of the revenue generated will be donated to the SRG.

Mayor Slay at March General Membership Meeting:
Mayor Francis Slay will appear at the March 2 General Membership Meeting to speak on behalf of renewing the City Earnings Tax.

February Board Meeting on Feb. 24:
The next Board Meeting will be Feb. 24 instead of the regular date of Feb. 17.

American Legion Post 422 Report:
Mr. Bill Wirtel reported that:

·         A Fifth Friday Bingo and Buffet was held Jan. 29 for 22 rehabbing veterans at Jefferson Barracks Medical Center. The next one will be April 29.

·         Third Friday Family Happy Hours will resume April 15. Musicians and guest bartenders are being recruited.

·         Despite a threatening weather forecast, a record crowd of 222 people turned out for Mouse Races No. 3 at St. Vincent’s De Paul, 1408 S. 10th St., on Jan. 9.

·         Three Lenten Cod Fish Fries are scheduled: Feb. 12, March 4 and March 25.

·         Post 422 will be serving biscuits and gravy starting at 7:30 a.m. on Grand Parade Day. Brats have been added to the menu. Bloody Marys and coffee also are available. 

Soulard Business Association Report:
No report was given in the absence of SBA President Dan Shields.

Mardi Gras Inc. Report:
Gary Toribio said that parking passes for Mardi Gras are available at the Mardi Gras Inc. building, 2200 Dolman St., for those who didn’t get them in the mail. Free 12-packs of Bud Light and Monster Energy drinks are available at the MGI building for neighborhood residents willing to display a small Mardi Gras poster. A post-Mardi Gras forum is set for March 3 at the MGI building.

Committee Reports:

Residential Promotion Report:
Soulard Star jewelry is now available for purchase: earrings are $10, necklaces are $8.

A Second Line Parade is planned on Fat Tuesday, beginning at 5 p.m. at D’s Place, 900 Barton St.

Reserve the date: Garden Tour on June 25.

Beautification Report:
No report.

Communications Report:
Deadline for the next Renaissance is May 13.

Code and Zoning Report:
A developer has bought the property at 1009-11-13 Allen Street.

A question was raised about temporary tents at several bars and restaurants. Alderman Coatar said the Building Division had been in the neighborhood today to determine whether tents were in compliance with city codes. He said tents generally don’t require a permit if they aren’t connected to a building and are under a certain square footage.

A request for two signs at the Lafayette School Apartments is under review. One sign would be by the front door, the other would be on the east side of the structure on South 7th Street. Dave Perry asked if the developer plans to clean two statues of children that are on top of the old school. Chairman Jay Gibbs said he would ask.

Fundraising Report:
Smarty Gras Trivia Night is Saturday Feb. 20 at the Franklin Room, 816 Allen Ave. Volunteers are sought. Tables are available for $225 at Soulard.org.

Membership Report:
Contact information is being verified prior to the printing of the next membership roster. The next Membership Committee meeting is at 7 p.m. Feb. 11 at Soulard Station, 1911 S. 12th St.

Adjournment:
The meeting adjourned at 7:54 p.m.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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January 2016 Board Meeting Minutes

SRG Board Meeting Minutes

Wednesday, Jan. 27, 2016 at Soulard Station, 1911 S. 12th St.

The meeting was called to order at 7:07 p.m. by President Mike Ziemann.

Members present: Mike Ziemann, Beth Bennett, Sean Cochran, Bill Clendenin, Luann Denten, Jeremy Mehrle, Jackie Parker, Steve Parker, Alicia Stellhorn, Gary Toribio

Members absent: None

Guests: None

Treasurer’s Report: 

Treasurer Stellhorn reported that revenue figures were in for the Hot Chocolate 15K/5K fundraiser ($1,500) and the Q in the Lou fundraiser ($1,677). She said that misleading information was being circulated about the SRG’s total assets. The total assets figure of $212,349.93 that shows on the Balance Sheet would only apply if the SRG were to sell Soulard Station and the property it sits upon, fixed assets of about $152,000. 

Luann Denten read a letter from Beautification Committee Chairman Richard Eaton in which he expressed concern that a payment of $1,045 to Gateway Greening for plaques on planters had been taken from the committee’s budget. Eaton noted that the Board had indicated at its December meeting that the expense would not be charged to Beautification.  Treasurer Stellhorn explained that the expense had been put in Quickbooks for accounting purposes only, and that the Beautification budget had not actually been charged.  However, to avoid the confusion that this created she reappropriated the cost as a Station expense.

Old Business:

Spending Priorities:

The Board decided to wait until its February meeting to further discuss proposals for spending surplus SRG funds.

New Business:

Board Elections:

Two director positions and three Board officer (president-elect, treasurer and secretary) need to be filled in the April election. Those openings will again be announced at the Feb. 3 General Membership Meeting, and Jackie Parker said she would include the information in the weekly Blaster and on Nextdoor Soulard. Nominations will be accepted at the March General Membership Meeting and can be made until the ballot is printed for the April meeting.

Luann Denten noted that the SRG bylaws speak of a nominating committee. Board members agreed that the entire Board actually serves as a de facto nominating committee, Mardi Gras at Soulard Station:

No SRG event will be held at the station on Grand Parade Day. After new Board members are seated, the new Board can discuss whether to hold a fundraiser or SRG party for Mardi Gras next year.

Mayor Francis Slay Appearance at the February General Membership Meeting: 

Mayor Slay has asked to address the General Membership about retaining the City Earnings Tax. (*Note: Mayor Slay will attend the March 3 meeting.)

Sts. Peter and Paul Reimbursement:
The Board agreed to budget $600 annually as payment to Sts. Peter and Paul Catholic Church, 1919 S. 7th St., for use of its hall for monthly SRG General Membership Meetings.

Nonprofit Donation Requests:
The Board agreed that as a rule, it prefers that requests for donations to nonprofits come directly from the nonprofits and be made to the nonprofits rather than from an umbrella group soliciting on behalf of nonprofits.

February and March Board Meetings:

The February Board Meeting will be held Feb. 24 because of a conflict on the Feb. 17 regular meeting date. The March Board Meeting date may also need to be changed.

German Heritage Street Signs
The German American Heritage Society of St. Louis is seeking to erect an honorary sign “renaming” a block of South 7th Street in Soulard (between Barton and Lami streets) as Bismarck Street. Alderman Jack Coatar forwarded the request to the SRG Board. The Board tabled discussion to allow a presentation from the Heritage Society.

Committee Reports:

Beautification:
Nothing beyond Richard Eaton’s letter, which was read during the Treasurer’s Report.

Communication:
No report.

Code and Zoning:
The committee will hear a request for two signs at the Lafayette School apartments. One would be on the South 7th Street side and the other would be on the door.

Fundraising:
Smarty Gras Trivia Night will be Feb. 20. Volunteers are needed and tables are available.

Membership:                                                                                                                                                  The committee hopes to increase the number of events it holds this year. Another paint party is planned and a terrarium-building workshop is under consideration.  The committee also may hold a wrestling night event at the Broadway Athletic Club, 2301 S. 7th St. Emails will be sent to people who haven’t already renewed their memberships prior to the Membership Meeting event in May.

Residential Promotion:                                                                                                                               New Soulard Star sterling silver earrings and necklaces have arrived and will be available for purchase. Prices were discussed. A new order for Soulard flags has been placed. 

Luann Denten said she had been asked whether bicycle races that once were part of the Bastille Days celebration might return.  It was suggested she speak with Matt LaBerta of LaBerta and Sons Cycles, 1007 Russell Blvd., and Ann Chance, St. Louis Special Events Program Executive, about the logistics and history of such an event.

Some neighborhood parties are being planned for Fat Tuesday. Mardi Gras Inc. will not hold a downtown parade on Fat Tuesday this year. One event will start about 5 p.m. at D’s Place, 900 Barton St.; another will start at 6:30 p.m. at the Soulard Art Gallery, 2028 S. 12th St.; another will start at 7 p.m. at Nadine’s Gin Joint, 1931 S. 12th St. 

Safety:

Three proposals for installing the first security cameras are being reviewed.  It is expected that a contractor will be selected in February.  After the selection of the contractor, it is anticipated that camera committee members will meet again with representatives of the Street Department and the Real Time Crime Center. The plans for the first security cameras will be refined, and actual installation could begin as soon as late February/early March.

Mardi Gras Inc.

No Fat Tuesday parade this year. The number of Krewes in the Grand Parade is down from last year, with 66 having registered as of December compared to 81 the previous December.

Soulard Social House, 1551 S. 7th St., will have a party station next to its property after it was denied permission to use the lot by Soulard Coffee Garden, 910 Geyer Ave.

Ten percent of net profits from all MGI events will be set aside for neighborhood causes.

Renaissance:

The current edition is already available online and should be distributed by Friday. The deadline for the Garden Tour edition is May 13.

Gary Toribio noted that STL Programs had donated the Parlour Tour programs in appreciation of our having the firm print the Renaissance. Treasurer Stellhorn added that the Parlour Tour cleared $11,896 this year.

Soulard Station:

No report.

Adjournment:

The meeting adjourned at 9:33 p.m.

Comment

Comment

January 2016 General Meeting Minutes

January 2016 SRG GENERAL MEMBERSHIP MEETING

Jan. 13, 2016 

Location: Sts. Peter and Paul Catholic Church, 1919 S. 7th St.

President Mike Ziemann called the meeting to order at 7:08 p.m. 

Board members in attendance: Mike Ziemann, Beth Bennett, Bill Clendenin, Luann Denten, Steve Parker, Gary Toribio

Board members absent: Sean Cochran, Jeremy Mehrle, Jackie Parker, Alicia Stellhorn

Elected officials in attendance: Alderman Jack Coatar 

Secretary’s Minutes:

Minutes from the Dec. 2 General Membership Meeting and the Dec. 16 Board Meeting were approved.

Treasurer’s Report: 

Treasurer’s Report was approved.

New Members:

Ten new members introduced themselves.

Post-Meeting Social:

At Soulard Station, 1911 S. 12 St.

Police Report:

Safety Committee Co-Chairman Scott Plackemeier presented the report in the absence of Officer Brian Min.  He reported: 

On Christmas Day, two men armed with pistols and wearing facemasks robbed someone leaving a garage in the 700 block of Soulard Street, taking an iPod and $100. No arrests have been made.)

Items were recovered Dec. 17 from a suspected meth lab in a vacant building in the 700 block of Allen Avenue.

Bud Weisser was arrested Dec. 3 on a trespassing charge at the Anheuser-Busch brewery.

On Jan. 8 there was an attempted holdup at gunpoint in the 1000 block of Allen Avenue. Two victims got out of their vehicles when two men pulled up in a gray car. One suspect told one of the victims to go with him but the victim refused and kicked the suspect several times. The suspects got in their car and fled.

Bids are being sought for the installation of the new security cameras. It is hoped that a contractor will be selected by the end of January and installation of cameras will begin in February.

Mardi Gras Inc. Executive Director Tim Lorson:

Lorson said this will be his 13th Mardi Gras season as executive director. He noted that fliers listing the 2016 Mardi Gras events were available. He said a 12-pack of Bud Light or Monster Energy drinks will be available for free at the MGI office, 2200 Dolman St., for people who are willing to display a poster.

He said no vehicles will be allowed to move in the Red Zone because that area has the highest concentration of revelers and it’s simply unsafe for cars to move. There will be two Yellow Zones, one in the LaSalle Park neighborhood and one on the south side of Soulard. Cars displaying parking passes can park in the Yellow Zone. Parking passes are being mailed to residents. If you don’t receive your two passes, visit the MGI office. If you have more than two cars, visit the office with proof of ownership to get additional passes.

If you park where there’s a White No Parking sign, you will be towed. If you park where there’s a Yellow No Parking sign and don’t display a parking pass, you will be towed. You can park where there’s a Yellow No Parking sign if you display a parking pass. The Yellow No Parking zone will be in effect from 3 a.m. to 9 p.m. on Grand Parade Day. The Red No Parking zone will be in effect from 3 a.m. Grand Parade Day through 2 a.m. Sunday morning to allow more time for trash cleanup there. No golf carts are allowed in the Red Zone. 

If your car is towed, call the MGI office at 771-5110 to learn where it is. Don’t call 911 to report illegally parked cars … call the MGI office, which will then alert police. 

The duration of trash cleanup is uncertain but it will continue until it’s completed. By 2 p.m. Sunday, if you still see trash, call the MGI office at 771-5110. Your call will be added to a list. 

Trash cleanup will proceed according to that list … first-reported, first-cleaned. Be patient.

MGI has ordered more than 1,000 port-a-potties. Bar owners will provide about 300 more. If you don’t like the placement of a port-a-potty, call the MGI office. Port-a-potties will start being installed the week before Pet Parade weekend, Jan. 30-31.  

Call 911 only if you feel threatened or have a medical emergency. Call the MGI office if you see crimes like public urination or an illegally parked car. 

No cans, coolers, bottles or backpacks are allowed in the Red Zone. This will be enforced with zero tolerance. If you have guests visiting, they need to pour alcoholic drinks into cups when leaving your home. If they are staying with you, make them aware they cannot bring suitcases or backpacks into the Red Zone on Grand Parade Day. In response to a question, Lorson said it is illegal for residents to sell drinks or other items from their homes. 

The police staging area for Mardi Gras will be at Gene Slay’s Boys’ Club of St. Louis, 2524 S. 11th St. The block in front of the club will be closed to traffic.

A neighborhood forum to review this year’s Mardi Gras will be held at 6 p.m. March 3 at the MGI office. Lorson said he can be reached at 771-5110 or at director@mardigrasinc.com.

President Ziemann asked people at the SRG meeting to share the information provided by Lorson with their neighbors who weren’t in attendance or anyone who seems confused by the Mardi Gras rules. He also reminded people with parking passes that they shouldn’t try to sell them because it causes problems for the whole neighborhood. 

Old Business:

Holiday Parlour Tour and Hot Chocolate 15K/5K:

Ziemann thanked those who volunteered at these fundraising events. Parlour Tour revenues are still being tallied, but it’s estimated the event raised $13,500 to $15,000.  Jim Price said he is retiring as volunteer coordinator for Parlour Tour so someone is needed to handle those duties.

Vice and Virtues Ball Update:

After-dinner tickets are still available. All 22 tables for dinner (10 people at a table) are sold out. Second-tier admission will be capped at 50 people.

New Business:

Soulard Station Commemorative Bricks:

Kristin Kopp is now coordinating the Soulard Station Commemorative Bricks project. Bricks cost $75 for individuals and $100 for businesses. For an additional $25, the Soulard Star logo can be added to a brick. Kopp said orders are placed in bunches and she is close to placing an order. 

SRG Board Positions:

Ziemann said that anyone interested in running for a position on the SRG Board should start thinking about it. The terms of two Board members and the secretary and treasurer will be up. In addition, a President-elect is needed. 

American Legion Post 422 Report:

Mr. Bill Wirtel reported that: 

 Unit 422 Auxiliary raised their total of military wish list boxes to 424, with the last shipment of 28 going to Marybeth Wallace’s son, Army pilot Pate Butler, to distribute to troops in Afghanistan. 

 A Fifth Friday Bingo and Buffet was held Jan. 29 for rehabbing veterans at Jefferson Barracks Medical Center. 

 For the first time, Third Friday Family Happy Hours continued through December last year, two months longer than usual. Another first at the Family Happy Hours were guest bartenders.

 222 people braved a threatening weather forecast Jan. 9 to attend Mouse Races No. 3 at St. Vincent’s De Paul, 1408 S. 10th St.  One of the races took eight minutes to complete. 

An Ambucs tryke for disabled veterans was on display. 

 Three Lenten Cod Fish Fries are scheduled: Feb. 2, March 4 and March 25. 

 Since 1996, Post 422 has been serving biscuits and gravy starting at 7:30 a.m. on Grand Parade Day. This year, brats have been added to the menu. Bloody Marys and coffee also are available. Last year, Mardi Gras security crews ate at the Legion so food quantities have been increased this year.   

 Flag Day is June 14. Save your tattered and worn flags so they can be disposed of properly at the Legion. Patriotic boxes are available at BKZ for businesses and high-traffic locations that want to collect flags for proper disposal.

 Post 422 has collected $500 in its effort to provide a flag for McKinley Public Classical Leadership Academy High School, which doesn’t have a flag or flag pole in front of the school. The estimated cost for the flag, pole and concrete base is $2,000.  President Ziemann presented Mr. Bill with a $500 check from the SRG, bringing the total raised to $1,000. Mr. Bill called the donation a “complete and happy surprise.”

Soulard Business Association Report:

SBA President Dan Shields said businesses are busy preparing for Mardi Gras season.

Mardi Gras Inc. Report:

Nothing beyond Lorson’s earlier report.

Beautification Report:

Next spring, the Beautification Committee will help plant three round planters that the Union Barbershop put in to protect its building at 1264 Gravois Ave.

Communications Report:

Please send photos from the Vices and Virtues Ball to editor@soulard.org and Jackie Parker will try to get them in the next Renaissance.

Fundraising Report:

Smarty Gras Trivia Night is Saturday Feb. 20 at the Franklin Room, 816 Allen Ave. People interested in volunteering should contact Jackie Parker.

Code and Zoning Report:

No report.

Membership Report:

The next Membership Committee meeting is at 7 p.m. Jan. 14 at Soulard Station. 

Residential Promotion Report:

Luann Denten reported that nine entry markers are now up. Four are on existing light poles and five are on their own posts.  Julie Price said that John Daus of Johnny’s was instrumental in getting Anheuser-Busch to donate the money that paid for the entry markers. Ziemann noted that when Anheuser-Busch made that donation, it freed up money that the Mardi Gras Foundation had granted for the project that the foundation then allowed to be used for the new security cameras.

Safety Report:

Nothing beyond what was said during the Police Report. Ziemann noted that Scott Plackemeier and Jim Rick are serving as co-chairmen of the committee.

Adjournment:

The meeting adjourned at 8:05 p.m.

Comment

Comment

December 2015 Board Meeting Minutes

SRG Board Meeting Minutes

Wednesday, Dec. 16, 2015 at Soulard Station, 1911 S. 12th St.

The meeting was called to order at 7:09 p.m. by President Mike Ziemann.

Members present: Mike Ziemann, Beth Bennett, Sean Cochran, Bill Clendenin, Luann Denten, Jeremy Mehrle, Jackie Parker, Steve Parker, Gary Toribio

Members absent: Alicia Stellhorn

Guests: None

Treasurer’s Report: 

Ziemann presented the report in the absence of Treasurer Alicia Stellhorn. He noted that the Tap ‘N’ Run check had finally arrived and revenue of $3,974 for the event is reflected in the report. 

He asked that a formal agreement with Mad Art Gallery be drawn up outlining services that will be provided for the upcoming Vice and Virtues Ball.

Ziemann said he would notify Treasurer Stellhorn that several Board members had expressed frustration about her accessibility and the system of making deposits. As part of this conversation, it was agreed that all SRG Committee chairmen should have a code giving them access to Soulard Station.

Old Business:

Hot Chocolate 15K/5K Cheer Station:

President Ziemann thanked those who volunteered at the cheer station and handed out water. He said about 23 people took part and that the race organizer was impressed by the neighborhood’s showing. 

Plaques for Planters:

Ziemann reported that he had some answers to questions previously raised by Board members about payment for plaques to go on sidewalk planters. He said that Gateway Greening had required the plaques as a condition of donating the planters to the neighborhood. That requirement wasn’t conveyed when a request for payment was made in June. Ziemann said he would move forward with payment of $1,045 from the SRG General Funds account. 

New Business:

Dates for January SRG General Membership Meeting and SRG Board Meeting: 

The January SRG General Membership Meeting date already was rescheduled for Jan. 13 from Jan. 6 to avoid a conflict with the 12th Night Mardi Gras celebration. At Ziemann’s request, the SRG Board Meeting was rescheduled to Jan. 27 from Jan. 20. 

3rd District Police Officers Christmas Party:

SRG will make a $500 donation.

Legion Flagpole Fundraiser:

SRG will donate $500 to American Legion Post 422’s effort to raise funds for a flag and flag pole at McKinley Public Classical Leadership Academy High School. Mr. Bill Wirtel, an alumnus and member of the school’s Executive Board, learned from Principal Steve Warmack that the school doesn’t have a flag or flag pole in front of the school. Legion Post 422 has started a fundraising effort to pay for a concrete base, 30-foot pole and 5-foot-by-8-foot flag. The estimated cost is $2,000. 

Thank You Cards:

Luann Denten asked if the SRG routinely sends out Thank You cards to people who take part in the Holiday Parlour Tour or host socials after General Membership meetings or volunteer or donate in other ways. Sean Cochran replied that the SRG historically had done so but might currently be remiss. New stationary and cards will be purchased so that this courtesy can resume.

This conversation led to a question about whether proper appreciation had been expressed to Parlour Tour participants. Two Board members conveyed complaints about lack of house sitters. 

Jackie Parker suggested that anyone with complaints should bring them to the entire Board. She noted, though, that the Parlour Tour had been a huge success with few glitches. Others said that anyone is always welcome to bring problems to the attention of the SRG Board. It was suggested that the Parlour Tour Committee have a post-tour meeting with the homeowners who participated.

Spending Priorities:

At the November SRG Board Meeting, President Ziemann had asked members to come to the December meeting with suggestions on how surplus SRG funds might be spent. At that time, the surplus was about $71,000. It is now about $90,000. Board members briefly discussed how much of the surplus funds should be kept as a reserve. Establishing a reserve figure of about $20,000, plus or minus $10,000, Board members then presented ideas

Holiday Banners:

The Board first discussed a proposal made on Nextdoor Soulard that funds be used to buy and display holiday banners, like some other neighborhoods have done. Board members expressed appreciation for the suggestion but decided not to act on it because banners would be a complicated undertaking. City permits would be required, and costs for purchasing banners, labor and storage would be substantial, members agreed. 

Soulardwide Wifi:

This idea suggested on Nextdoor Soulard was deemed too expensive and not widely needed.

Security Cameras:

To this point, SRG has committed $10,000 to the Soulard camera system and has participated in other fundraising efforts for the system. There was general agreement that the SRG could commit more money for additional cameras but that the SRG should have a clearer picture of the costs of such additional cameras before committing. Ziemann said that in addition to the money previously raised, a couple business owners have pledged money to pay for cameras that would be located near their properties. In response to a question about license plate recognition (LPR) cameras, Bill Clendenin said that the first cameras that will be installed are not LPR cameras, If such LPR cameras are desired, such cameras would be donated to the existing city system and wouldn’t be operated as part of the Soulard camera system. The initial seven cameras will include one camera on the south side of Soulard. Ziemann said he is committed to seeing that additional cameras be placed on the south side of Soulard.

Historical Plaques/Markers:

Luann Denten suggested having plaques labeling historic sites in Soulard, such as Pontiac Square Park. She said these could be used as a walking tour taking people through the entire neighborhood. She said that the city’s Cultural Resources office liked the idea. Steve Parker said that historical markers also were his top suggestion, along the lines of what one would see at a Civil War battlefield. He said businesses could have pamphlets describing stops on the walking tour, and that eventually it might grow into something like a Soulard Visitors Center. He said that Vincent’s Market, 2400 S. 12th St., a former movie house, might have a marker. 

Tree Planting:

Beth Bennett suggested spending $5,000 for tree planting. She said we could plant about 50 trees a year.

Street Lighting: 

Beth Bennett suggested that funds might be used for historic streetlights, like those on Cherokee Street. Sean Cochran said that expenses would be lower if the historic lights were attached to the current utility poles, but Bennett urged replacing them with historic poles. Jeremy Mehrle said he also favored spending for historic streetlights. 

Trash Cans:

There was discussion of increasing the number of sidewalk trash cans. 

Sidewalk Improvements:

There was discussion of improving sidewalks. It was noted that’s really the responsibility of the city or homeowner. There was brief talk of having homeowners match money from the surplus for sidewalks work. The question of getting grants arose but Ziemann asked that the current conversation focus on using surplus funds, not seeking new sources of revenue. 

Student Scholarships:

Jackie Parker suggested establishing a Soulard scholarship to be awarded annually to a student. She said requirements for applicants need to be determined. She said that one requirement might be volunteering with the SRG. 

Summary:

President Ziemann summarized the conversation and made some suggestions for next steps. 

More specifics are needed before more money is allocated for the security cameras. Historical markers are a great idea and Luann Denten will get costs estimates. Planting trees is a good idea, though $5,000 might be high. Beth Bennett will do more research on the cost of historic streetlights. A Soulard scholarship is a great idea. 

Committee Reports:

Beautification:

The city has given approval for the the Terra Madonna sculpture by Ureil Starbuck to move to Pontiac Square Park. (The sculpture currently is located at Unity Christ Church, 33 N. Skinker Blvd. The property where it is now may be sold and the artist wants to find a new home before the sale. The cost to transport and erect the 11-foot-tall and 5-foot-wide sculpture is estimated at $1,500. Durnell said that the funds would come from the Beautification Committee budget. 

Starbuck, the artist, wants a plaque saying that the artwork is sponsored by someone to be determined.)

Three diseased trees will be removed from Pontiac Square Park. 

The social after the April SRG General Membership Meeting will be held at the bandstand in Soulard Market Park to raise awareness about the bandstand and about the Beautification Committee prior to the committee’s fundraiser at Molly’s, 816 Geyer Ave.

Communication:

The old Soulard Hotline phone number has been disabled.

Renaissance:

The deadline for the next edition is Jan. 12.

Code and Zoning:

Beth Bennett says she submitted an inquiry to the city about whether the Polar Wave apartment project has installed metallic siding that doesn’t meet code. But she said the city canceled the work order because it didn’t contain a specific address. She has resubmitted it. She reported that the siding has been painted and isn’t unattractive. She said residents had told her the old building had metal siding.

Fundraising:

Smarty Gras Trivia Night will be Feb. 20. 

Membership:

The social after the Jan. 13 SRG General Membership Meeting will be held at Soulard Station.

A Yoga get together is being discussed.

Residential Promotion:

Julie Price has resigned from the committee.

Santa Comes to Soulard is Friday, Dec. 18, at Soulard Station.

Soulard Star magnets are in. 

Our inventory of Soulard flags sold out. 

$700 in merchandise was sold during the Holiday Parlour Tour.

Safety:

Bill Clendenin, the SRG President-Elect, noted that he is in his last month as Safety Committee Chairman. He said Jim Rick and Scott Plackemeier will serve as co-chairmen.

Mardi Gras Inc.

Four to six volunteers are needed to work from noon to 4 p.m. at the family Winter Carnival on Saturday, Jan. 9 at Soulard Market Park.

The number of Krewes for the Mardi Gras Grand Parade currently is down about 20 percent.

MGI agreed to purchase a table at the Vices and Virtues Mardi Gras Ball. 

A request for a Social House tent near the Soulard Coffee Garden was denied.  

The MGI Board reapproved the formula for staff bonuses for outside events. 10 percent of all profits from outside events will be dedicated for community projects. Such funding was about $6,000 last year. 

Luann Denten said she appreciated the improved communication between MGI and SRG.

Soulard Station:

No report.

Adjournment:

The meeting adjourned at 9:46 p.m.

Comment

Comment

December 2015 General Meeting Minutes

December 2015 SRG GENERAL MEMBERSHIP MEETING

Dec. 2, 2015 

Location: Sts. Peter and Paul Catholic Church, 1919 S. 7th St.

The meeting was called to order at 7:07 p.m. by President Mike Ziemann.

Board members in attendance: Mike Ziemann, Beth Bennett, Sean Cochran, Luann Denten, Jeremy Mehrle, Jackie Parker, Steve Parker

Board members absent: Bill Clendenin, Alicia Stellhorn, Gary Toribio 

Elected officials in attendance: Alderman Ken Ortmann. 

Secretary’s Minutes:

Minutes from the Nov. 4 General Membership Meeting and the Nov. 18 Board Meeting were approved.

Treasurer’s Report: 

Treasurer’s Report was approved.

New Members:

One new member introduced herself and two workers at Getaway Carts in Benton Park introduced themselves.

Post-Meeting Social:

Hosted by Luann and Joe Denten at their home at 2622 S. 11th St.

Police Report:

Sgt. David Bonenberger, who has returned to the 3rd District,  and Officer Daphne Allen, 3rd District Problem Problem Officer, were introduced.

Officer Brian Min said November crimes included:

 Three assaults (One was a domestic.)

 Two stolen autos (Car left running in one case.)

 Four burglaries 

 One robbery (The man walking his dog on the sidewalk by Pontiac Square Park who was accosted by a group of young people.)

 50 larcenies (12 were car break-ins, two attempted car break-ins, five cases of property damage.)

Officer Min said he had discussed the robbery on the sidewalk by Pontiac Square Park with Detective Tom Mayer and they thought that “the media blew it all out of proportion.” Officer Min said the youths had struck a “glancing blow” and that the victim had not been knocked down. He said the kids ran off after the victim “snarled at them.” He said the youths had surrounded the man and demanded his property, so it was a robbery, even though the man said he had nothing and the suspects ran off.

Officer Min said he and Detective Mayer noted that robberies and assaults are down. He said they attributed that to “the word has gotten out that Soulard is not a good place to commit crimes.”

Officer Min asked Officer Allen for an update on problems near Trops, 1800 S. 10th St. She said a group of concerned neighbors had met with her to discuss the situation. She said 7th Ward Alderman Jack Coatar had asked for a year-over-year crime analysis of the area surrounding Trops. Jeremy Mehrle said he had filed a petition Oct. 28 on behalf of a majority of Trops neighbors asking the city to revoke Trops’ liquor license. He said he hadn’t heard anything yet from the city. Officer Allen said she would make inquiries.

Officer Min said that one of the burglaries occurred in the 2300 block of South 12th Street.  Burglars broke into the home and stole some copper lines but were interrupted by an alarm. They dropped the copper lines in the yard while fleeing. He introduced homeowners Joy Grdnic and Ron Stevens so they could offer some thoughts on home security. Stevens noted that good security technology can be obtained for a relatively low cost.  He said security cameras can be tied to a smart phone via free apps.  He said a motion detector can be set up to send an alert to a phone and the user can then view video of what’s taking place.

Officer Min said a burglary in the 2200 block of South 11th Street had been cleared.

Paul Kjorlie asked if traffic officers drive around looking for traffic violations. Sgt. Bonenberger said that they do, but that only about 10 officers are assigned to the Traffic Division and that they might be called off patrols to handle other cases.

Old Business and New Business:

Parlour Tour Update:

Julie and Jim Price provided an update on the 40th Soulard Parlour Tour on Saturday, Dec. 5. About 100 volunteers are needed overall. Jim Price distributed a signup sheet. There will be a party for volunteers and tour homeowners at 7 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 6 at the Franklin Room, 816 Allen Ave.

Ziemann said the event is a chance to show off the neighborhood. He called for volunteers.  

Volunteerism overall is down, he said. He noted that people attending the General Membership Meeting were likely to have already volunteered, but he asked them to prod others to volunteer. 

Hot Chocolate 15K/5K:

Head cheerleader Billy Tomber said if we get 40 volunteers for our cheer station, SRG will receive $1,000 or more from the event’s organizers. Volunteers will hand out chocolate marshmallows and water to runners. The race starts and ends downtown and only touches Soulard along South 7th Street. He said the exact location of the cheer station is still being determined but that it’s likely to be at South 7th Street and Geyer Avenue. The race starts at 7:30 a.m. and we expect runners to reach the station about 8:15 a.m. Volunteers will get hot chocolate.  He said PJs are proper attire but cautioned everyone to dress for the weather. 

New Business:

SRG Liquor License:

President Ziemann clarified the SRG policy on obtaining a liquor license from the city for events: Only SRG Board members can pull a license. He said there’s a possibility that the city may allow a pre-approved list of names to be filed, in which case someone on that list could pull a license.

SRG Spending:

President Ziemann clarified the SRG policy on spending by SRG committees. Any spending done on behalf of an SRG committee needs prior approval of the committee chairman. Any expense of $500 or more, unless already allocated in the SRG budget, needs Board approval.

Ziemann said that the SRG currently has a surplus of funds and that he has asked SRG Board members to suggest ways it might be spent to help the community. He said SRG members should share ideas with Board members.

Date of Next General Membership Meeting:

The next SRG General Membership Meeting will be Wednesday, Jan. 13, 2016, a week later than originally scheduled. The date was shifted so that SRG members can participate in Twelfth Night activities on Jan. 6.

Committee Reports:

Residential Promotion Report:

Luan Denten thanked those who attended the Local Hour will Nov. 19 at Shelly’s, 2001 Menard 

St. 

Santa comes to Soulard will begin at 6 p.m. Friday, Dec. 18, at Soulard Station, 1911 S. 12th St. 

Cookies and candies (and adult beverages) will be available. Kids can do crafts. A bake sale will be held.

The permit has been granted for the entry marker project and Tarlton Corp. will begin work on the project.

American Legion Post 422 Report:

Mr. Bill Wirtel reported that:

 The Auxiliary Unit packed and shipped 28 “wish list” boxes to our soldiers in Afghanistan, bringing the total number of boxes shipped to 432. Mary Beth Wallace provided the name of an Army pilot who is on his fifth tour of duty as a contact person who would help distribute the boxes to the troops. It was her son, Chief Warrant Officer 4 Pate Butler. 

 Post 422 members distributed flags Nov. 7 at Soulard Market Park for Veterans Day. Post 

422 also had a big role in the ceremony at Soldiers Memorial Military Museum, 1315 

Chestnut St. 

 Ambucs trykes were presented to five more disabled veterans, bringing the total to 21 with three more on order. Each veteran getting a tryke spoke at the ceremony. Rosemary and Michael Pastore sponsored a tryke and met the veteran who received it.

 Guest bartenders for the next Third Friday Family Happy Hour Social on Nov. 20 will be Joanie Thomas Spurgeon, Nadine Soaib and Patti Thomas of Patti and the Hitmen. Music will be supplied by Judith Howard. 

 This year’s final Third Friday Family Happy Hour Social will be Dec. 18. Music will be provided by Air Force veteran Chic Lisitano, who will be in town from Florida for the release party for her third CD. 

 McKinley Public Classical Leadership Academy High School was one of the city’s public schools recently earning Accreditation with Distinction from the state. Mr. Bill, an alumnus and member of the school’s Executive Board, learned from Principal Steve Warmack that the school doesn’t have a flag or flag pole in front of the school. Legion Post 422 has started a fundraising effort to pay for a concrete base, 30-foot pole and 5-foot-by-8-foot flag. The estimated cost is $2,000. 

 Larry Liszenski, former program director at Gene Slay’s Boys’ Club of St. Louis, 2524 S. 11th St., is ailing and could not attend tonight’s meeting. But he asked Mr. Bill to report that Boys’ Club carolers will be out again this year raising money for the club and other children’s organizations. Liszenski hopes to attend January’s SRG meeting.

 Mouse Racing will be 7 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 9 at St. Vincent’s De Paul, 1408 S. 10th St. The family friendly event will benefit veterans. The cost is $25 for adults in advance and $30 at the door. Kids’ admission is half-price, free for those under age 12. For more information, call Mona Parsley at 314-220-3786 or Kathleen Lee at 314-369-6292.

Soulard Business Association Report:

SBA President Dan Shields was absent. 

Julie Price encouraged the SRG and SRG members to become members of the Central Patrol Business Association, whose mission is to provide support to police officers in the Central Patrol Division. 

Mardi Gras Inc. Report:

Twelfth Night is Jan. 6 with the festivities starting at Johnny’s, 1017 Russell Blvd.

Billy Tomber reported that members of the MGI Board of Directors had weeded the small triangle garden at S. 9th and Sidney streets on Oct. 18.

Beautification Report:

Approval has been given for signage at Soulard Market Park about neighborhood participation in the city’s Milkweeds for Monarchs project. 

Brightside St. Louis is encouraging residents to report graffiti when they see it. 

Young Friends of Brightside will hold a social from 6 to 8 p.m. Dec. 3 at McGurk’s, 1200 

Russell Blvd. 

Communications Report:

The hotline phone number will no longer function after the Parlour Tour. 

Thanks to Linda Kurdi and her delivery team, the Soulard Star directory and the Renaissance are being delivered. The deadline for the Mardi Gras edition of the Renaissance is Jan. 12.

Code and Zoning Report:

Paul Kajorlie asked about a discussion in the SRG Board Nov. 18 meeting minutes about the siding on the Polar Wave Apartments project. Jay Gibbs responded that Code and Zoning member Beth Bennett had contacted the city to see if the siding is shown on the original plans. 

Gibbs said he needed to see the siding before he could offer an opinion whether it meets historic code. In any event, he said, the city would make any determination.

In response to a question, Gibbs said he didn’t know why work is progressing so slowly on the BP gas station at 701 Russell Blvd.

Fundraising report:

Rick Dungey thanked Christopher Schwarz, Venessa Kobrin, Julie Dinkelman, Scott Voellinger, Beth Bennett, Brett and Kathleen Pont, Richard Eaton and John Durnell for helping distribute wreaths in the holiday wreaths fundraiser. He said about $1,300 was netted through the sale of 88 small wreaths and 44 large ones. 10 wreaths still need to be picked up and are at The Porch, 1700 S. 9th St. 

Smarty Gras Trivia Night is Saturday, Feb. 20. Tables of 10 are $225.

Membership Report:

The Sunday Funday Paint Brunch party Nov. 15 at Soulard Station was a success and will be repeated next year. 

The next Membership Committee meeting is Dec. 3 at 7 p.m. at Soulard Station. 

Safety Report:

Jim Rick said neighborhood impact statements were being written. 

He reported that committee Chairman Bill Clendenin was helping draft agreements and bid specs for the new security cameras. He said that there was funding for four or five initial cameras. 

Ziemann said more funds would allow more cameras to be added. 

There was discussion about whether it’s more important for the cameras to show identifiable faces or clear license plate numbers. Sgt. Bonenberry said the city doesn’t have facial recognition technology as depicted on TV crime shows. He noted that license plate numbers aren’t always useful as evidence in court cases because vehicles used in crimes are often stolen. He said plate numbers are valuable when a crime is taking place. 

Adjournment:

The meeting adjourned at 8:16 p.m.

Comment

Comment

November 2015 Board Meeting Minutes

SRG Board Meeting Minutes

Wednesday, Nov. 18, 2015 at Soulard Station, 1911 S. 12th St.

The meeting was called to order at 7:10 p.m. by President Mike Ziemann.

Members present: Mike Ziemann, Beth Bennett, Sean Cochran, Luann Denten, Jeremy Mehrle, 

Jackie Parker, Steve Parker, Alicia Stellhorn, Gary Toribio

Members absent: Bill Clendenin 

Guests: 

Dan Shields, owner of D’s Place, 900 Barton St., and president of the Soulard Business 

Association.

Tom Schmidt, owner of Franco’s, 1535 S. 8th St., and past president of Mardi Gras Inc.

Dan Shields outlined plans for rehab work at D’s Place, which he purchased eight years ago. He plans to rehab four apartment units above the tavern. Six apartments in an adjacent structure will be rehabbed as four units. Because D’s Place will become a non-smoking establishment Jan. 1, Shields wants to have a patio behind the building on the south side to accommodate smokers. 

Otherwise, he said, smokers would go outside the front of D’s Place. The patio requires a variance from residential zoning to mixed use, and Shields asked the SRG Board for a letter of support for his Dec. 9 appearance before the Rezoning Board. (Later in the meeting, the Board voted to write a letter of support for the rezoning request.)

Tom Schmidt, whose term on the Mardi Gras Inc. Board ended three months ago, appeared to explain the relationship and roles of Mardi Gras Inc. and the Mardi Gras Foundation.

Treasurer’s Report: 

Treasurer Alicia Stellhorn reported that the Tap ‘N’ Run revenue did not yet reflect a check that the organization mistakenly sent to the Soulard Preservation Hall, 1921 S. 9th St., an error that has occurred in previous years. 

The Board discussed ways of spending what is now a $71,000 surplus in the SRG budget. 

Several Board members expressed sentiment for allocating more funds for new security cameras. 

President Ziemann asked Board members to bring ideas to the next SRG Board Meeting, Dec. 

16. 

The Treasurer’s Report was accepted.

Old Business:

Security Cameras Working Group:

The Board authorized President Ziemann to act on behalf of the SRG in matters dealing with the security cameras working group. Board members also discussed possible qualifications and requirements of an SRG representative if an official security cameras group is formed.

Trops Neighborhood Impact Statement:

Jeremy Mehrle reported that he had filed a petition Nov. 18 at City Hall requesting the revocation of the liquor license for Trops, 1800 S. 10th St. He said that 51 percent of the homeowners had already signed the petition. He also noted that police have characterized Trops as a problem property. The SRG Board unanimously voted to provide a letter supporting the effort being made by a majority of neighbors affected by Trops to revoke its liquor license.

New Business:

January SRG General Membership Meeting: 

The January SRG General Membership Meeting date was moved to Jan. 13 from Jan. 6 to avoid a conflict with the 12th Night Mardi Gras celebration.

Entry Marker Representative:

Luann Denten will be the SRG Board’s contact person in matters dealing with the new entry markers. Denten said that the city’s Board of Public Service had granted permission for the markers project to proceed, with the requirement that a banner permit be obtained. She said an issue concerning identifying an insurance carrier for the markers had been resolved.

Liquor License Approval:

The Board unanimously voted to require that any entity seeking a liquor license in the name of the SRG either be on an approved list or appear before the Board to request a license. Alicia Stellhorn will inquire if the SRG can have on file with the city a list of people who are officially authorized to request a liquor license on behalf of SRG.  

Hot Chocolate 15K/5K Cheer Station:

Jackie Parker discussed this fundraiser. On Sunday, Dec. 13, the SRG will have a cheer station at the Hot Chocolate 15K/5 and will hand out chocolate marshmallows and water. The station will be between mile points 7 and 8, at Lafayette Avenue and Tucker Boulevard. The race will start downtown at 7:30 a.m. We expect runners to reach our station about 8:15 a.m. For more information, contact Billy Tomber at 314-374-4653.  Ziemann urged the Fundraising Committee to “talk up” this event at the Dec. 9 SRG General Membership Meeting.

Committee Reports:

Beautification:

Weed Warriors finished clearing out plants from street pots on Nov. 14, except for those belonging to bars. 

Communication:

Jeremy Mehrle says he is talking with Vicki Morris on ways to get dependable internet service at Soulard Station.

Code and Zoning:

Beth Bennett says she will check on a report that the Polar Wave apartment project has installed metallic siding that doesn’t meet code.

Star Awards for outstanding rehab work or new construction will be awarded in the spring.

Fundraising:

Wreaths sold for the fundraiser can be picked up from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 28, in the plaza of Soulard Farmers Market.

Luann Denten said “second tier” tickets to the Jan. 16 Vices & Virtues Mardi Gras Ball are being sold. Tables are sold out. Second tier admission will start at 9 a.m. and include open bar, costume contest, silent auction, live band and dancing.

Membership:

The Sunday Funday Paint Brunch Nov. 15 was a success, with 27 painters attending, including some non-SRG members. Some memberships were sold that day. More such events are planned.

Residential Promotion:

Local Hour will be held at Thursday Nov. 19 at Shelley’s in Soulard, 2001 Menard St.

Luann Denten requested opinions on several design options for the Soulard Star magnets that will produced and given away. She also said she has received an offer for a company to produce Soulard-themed jewelry.

Safety:

Nothing to report other than the safety cameras discussion earlier in the meeting. 

Mardi Gras Inc.

The route for the 12th Night Mardi Gras event is not yet set.

The police staging area for Mardi Gras will be at Gene Slay’s Boys Club of St. Louis,

2524 S. 11th St.

No further discussion on Mardi Gras Inc. Director Tim Lorson’s contract will be held until after 

Mardi Gras season. 

The St. Louis Blues will have a Mardi Gras section and the Blues will have a Mardi Gras 

sweater. 

Mardi Gras Inc. is seeking a part-time bookkeeper.

Next MGI Board meeting is Dec. 3.

Renaissance:

The Parlour Tour edition went to the printer today and should be available for distribution 

Friday.

Soulard Station:

No report.

Parlour Tour Committee:

The committee will meet with tour homeowners Nov. 19 at the MGI building to discuss 

decorating.

Adjournment:

The meeting adjourned at 8:52 p.m.

Comment

Comment

November 2015 General Meeting Minutes

November 2015 SRG GENERAL MEMBERSHIP MEETING

Nov. 4, 2015

Location: Sts. Peter and Paul Catholic Church, 1919 S. 7th St.

The meeting was called to order at 7:06 p.m. by President Mike Ziemann.

Board members in attendance: Mike Ziemann, Beth Bennett, Bill Clendenin, Sean Cochran, Luann Denten, Jeremy Mehrle, Jackie Parker, Steve Parker, Gary Toribio

Board members absent: Alicia Stellhorn

Elected officials in attendance: Alderman Jack Coatar, Alderman Ken Ortmann.

Secretary’s Minutes:

Minutes from the Sept. 2 General Membership Meeting, the Sept. 16 Board Meeting, the Oct. 7 General Membership Meeting and the Oct. 20 Board Meeting were approved.

Treasurer’s Report:

Treasurer’s Report was approved.

New Members:

One new member introduced himself

Guests:

Eagle Scout Luke Dibler. Circuit Judge Thomas Frawley and Circuit Judge David Mason of the 22nd Judicial Circuit (St. Louis City).

Post-Meeting Social:

Hosted by Ryan Carter, owner of STL Party Bus at 2207 S. 12th St.

Special Presentations:

Check presentation to Soulard Safety Program:

A check for $3,500 representing proceeds from the 1860’s Charity Golf Tournament 2015 on Monday, Oct. 19, was presented to the Soulard Safety Program. Presenting the check was Cecil Adams, manager of the 1860’s Saloon, 1860 S. 9th St., and director of the charity tournament. Receiving the check on behalf of the Soulard Safety Program (standing in for Joanie Thomas Spurgeon) was Max Burton of MADCO Printing & Advertising, 1715 S. 11th St.

 

Plaque presentation to Eagle Scout Luke Dibler:

Eagle Scout Luke Dibler, accompanied by his mother Lisa Dibler and Scoutmaster Paul Deal, was honored for his Eagle Scout project that resulted in the new gazebo in Aboussie Park, located west of South 13th Street between Lynch and Sidney streets. Luke Dibler was presented a plaque by Richard Eaton and John Durnell. They commended the Ladue Horton Watkins High School senior for devising the project, raising the money to carry it out and supervising the crew that built it.

Address by Circuit Judges:

Judges Thomas Frawley and David Mason of the 22nd Judicial Circuit, accompanied by Public Information Officer Thom Gross, introduced themselves and talked about their roles as judges. Frawley said both joined the court in 1991, after being appointed by then-Gov. John Ashcroft.

Paul Kjorlie asked them about comments by Police Chief Sam Dotson in which Dotson criticized judges for lenient sentences of armed criminals and called for a “gun docket.” Judge Mason noted that the Circuit Attorney’s Office recently received a federal grant to develop a diversionary program for first-time gun offenders. He said that the circuit attorney, the police chief and judges would be in an ongoing conversation on how to deal with gun violence.

Judge Frawley noted that the Board of Probation and Parole, not judges, determines releases of prisoners.

Kjorlie asked the judges about public perception that city judges are liberal. Judge Mason replied that the 22nd Judicial Circuit has a wide spectrum of judges, but that no one would accuse him or Judge Frawley of being liberal. Both judges stressed that they considered the merits of each individual case in determining sentences.

Gross cited a 2014 report on sentencing that said felons sentenced in St. Louis were more likely to do prison time than in any other judicial circuit in Missouri, and that bail bonds were set higher than in other circuits.

Judge Frawley said that he has been asked how residents could help judges carry out their duties more effectively. He suggested three things:

1.      When called for jury duty, don’t try to figure out how to get out of it. Instead, strive to be selected for a jury.

2.      Form a group to watch the courts, if we don’t already have one. Judges often allow representatives of these groups to speak in the courtroom. At the least, people can see how the system works.

3.      Establish a neighborhood accountability board. This would help youths understand there’s a victim for every crime, that there are consequences to misdeeds.

Safety Committee Chairman Bill Clendenin asked if neighborhood impact statements are helpful to judges. Judge Frawley responded “absolutely,” but noted that they need to be followed up by having representatives come to court. He said that shows the importance of the incident to the community, allows judges to ask questions and shows the defendant there are consequences to crime.

Judge Frawley said that young offenders ages 17 to 25 know no boundaries. “They don’t think like we do because most don’t think they’re going to live past 25.”

In response to a question, Judge Frawley said that an offender’s parents might be responsible for paying restitution but aren’t accountable for the actual crime.

Judge Frawley ended his presentation by thanking Alderman Ortmann for having been a longtime friend of the juvenile court system.

Neighborhood impact statements:

Safety Committee Chairman Bill Clendenin circulated two impact statements for signatures. The cases involved two defendants in armed robberies that occurred in August.

Police Report:

Officer Brian Min said October crimes included:

·         Four assaults (One involved a runner being punched by three individuals at 5:47 a.m. Another involved an intoxicated female who said she was assaulted at three different locations, one of which was at S. 9th Street and Geyer Avenue. Another involved a suspect who confronted and kicked someone urinating in an alley.)

·         Five stolen autos (A .22 caliber rifle was in one of the vehicles.)

·         Two burglaries

·         Two robberies (Two suspects grabbed the purse of an intoxicated woman, who fought back and was knocked to the ground and kicked. Another involved a victim who reportedly met someone at a restaurant in DeSoto, accepted a ride to Soulard and was robbed at gunpoint in the 2000 block of Menard Street.)

·         27 thefts (12 were car break-ins, six were stolen bicycles and two were stolen golf carts. Among items stolen were a guitar, designer sunglasses and an alley motion detector.)

Officer Min said that so far in November, there had been one assault and one larceny.

Paul Kjorlie asked if citizens should be patrolling and looking for criminal activity. Officer Min responded that it is okay to watch for crimes but not to confront suspects. Officer Min said that GCI security supplemented police patrols of the neighborhood and that GCI wrote four summonses in October.

Officer Min said that most of the people who commit crimes in Soulard aren’t from the neighborhood. “They come here shopping.”  Alderman Jack Coatar noted that Soulard is located at the crossroads of major highways, which is why security cameras will be so important.

Old Business and New Business:

Parlour Tour Update:

President Ziemann called for volunteers for the neighborhood’s largest fundraiser, and he noted that this event offers volunteers the opportunity to do many more things than pour beer.

Julie Price of the Parlour Tour Committee displayed the poster for the 40th anniversary event. The photograph on the poster was taken by Linda Kurdi, and the poster was designed by Neal Thompson. Julie Price said that craft tables will again be located at the tour’s starting point, Gene Slay’s Boys’ Club of St. Louis, 2524 S. 11th St., at no charge to vendors. Six houses and one business are on this year’s tour. Committee members will meet with the homeowners Nov. 19 at the Mardi Gras Inc. building, 2200 Dolman St. About 100 volunteers are needed. A signup list was circulated and is accessible online via Google docs. A Facebook event page has been created. Wreaths from the wreath fundraiser were purchased for each of the tour stops. Tour scripts will be mailed in advance to guides. Businesses are still needed to sponsor tour stops. Tour tickets are $22 in advance and $25 at the door. Volunteers may take the tour for free. A thank you party for volunteers and homeowners will again conclude the event.

SLACO Regional Neighborhood Conference:

Ziemann reported that Lewis Reed, president of the city’s Board of Aldermen, had posted a notice on Next Door Soulard about an upcoming Regional Neighborhood Conference (Nov. 14) being held by the St. Louis Association of Community Organizations.

(Here is the text of Reed’s post on Next Door:  The SLACO Regional Neighborhood Conference Nov. 14 features a spectacular lineup of speakers designed to shed light on the topics of greatest relevance to neighborhood work in the St. Louis area. The 28 member neighborhood associations of SLACO have decided to focus this conference, which is open to everyone, on effective neighborhood associations and local government, vacant land and buildings, youth, education and neighborhoods, "Ferguson" lessons learned, and the role of community development corporations in neighborhoods. Rev. Starsky Wilson, President and CEO of the Deaconess Foundation and Co-Chair of the Ferguson Commission, will keynote. The entire program and a registration link are available online. Abundant opportunities for networking and meeting interesting people in the hallways have been planned into the conference. The day-long event will be held at Harris-Stowe State University. Regular registration at $25 closes Nov. 9, with late registration at $35 starting Nov. 10. Neighbors who are not online can call the SLACO office (314-361-9406) to arrange registration. More at http://www.slaco-mo.org/conference.html)

Committee Reports:

American Legion Post 422 Report:

Mr. Bill Wirtel reported that:

·         John Durnell, LeRoy Fitzwater and Alan Ziegler were the guest bartenders at the Oct. 16 Third Friday Family Happy Hour Social.

·         Guest bartenders for the next Third Friday Family Happy Hour Social on Nov. 20 will be Joanie Thomas Spurgeon, Nadine Soaib and Patti Thomas of Patti and the Hitmen. Music will be supplied by Judith Howard.

·         Guest bartenders for the Dec. 18 Third Friday Family Happy Hour Social are still be to determined. Music will be provided by Air Force veteran Chic Lisitano, who will be in town from Florida for her CD release party.

·         Post 422 will play a big role in the Veterans Day parade that starts at 10:55 a.m. Wednesday, Nov. 11, at Soldiers Memorial Military Museum, 1315 Chestnut St.

·         The Legion distributed flags on Nov. 7 at Soulard Market Park.

·         The Legion collects tattered and worn flags year round so that they can be properly disposed of. Mr. Bill displayed a box in which flags can be deposited and said boxes are available for businesses and public places, such as churches, hair salons, hardware stores, restaurants, etc. One is currently in the Ameren UE lobby.

·         Mouse Racing will be 7 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 9 at St. Vincent’s De Paul, 1408 S. 10th St. The family friendly event will benefit veterans. The cost is $25 for adults in advance and $30 at the door. Kids’ admission is half-price, free for those under age 12. For more information, call Mona Parsley at 314-220-3786 or Kathleen Lee at 314-369-6292.

Soulard Business Association Report:

SBA President Dan Shields said that the Mardi Gras theme is “All Things Sports.” He said Mardi Gras shirts would be available in mid- to late-November.

Mardi Gras Inc. Report:

Billy Tomber said Mardi Gras season kicks off in two months and two days with Twelfth Night on Wednesday, Jan. 6.  Ziemann noted that the SRG General Membership Meeting scheduled for that night will need to be adjusted.

Beautification Report:

Weed Warriors will have their final workday of the season at Pontiac Square Park from 9 to 11 a.m. Nov. 7 cleaning out plants from the SRG Beautification containers.

Ash trees in Soulard Market Park are being removed because of the presence of the ash bore beetle, which destroys ash trees. Three trees in Pontiac Square Park will be removed.

Communications Report:

The deadline for the Parlour Tour edition of the Renaissance is Nov. 5.

Code and Zoning Report:

Jay Gibbs reported there aren’t a lot of new projects coming in right now.

Membership Report:

The next meeting is Nov. 6 at 7 p.m. at Soulard Station. Coming up with new membership events is on the agenda.

A Sunday Funday Paint Brunch party will be held Sunday, Nov. 15, from 11:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Soulard Station. The cost is $10 for SRG members.

Residential Promotion Report:

Luann Denten thanked those who participated in the Creepy Cart Crawl golf cart and walking parade and trunk or treat on Friday, Oct. 30.

 

The next Local Hour will be at 5 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 19, at Shelly’s, 2001 Menard St.

 

The entry marker project has been delayed so that responsibility for insurance can be determined.

People who attended last year’s Vices & Virtues Mardi Gras Ball need to act quickly to reserve spots for this year’s ball Jan. 16 or they will be released for others to purchase. A lottery system was used to choose the royalty for the 2016 ball. Out of more than 50 entries, Alan Ziegler was selected. The other member of the royal court will be LeRoy Fitzwater.

 

Fundraising report:

Rick Dungey thanked volunteers who worked at Oktoberfest Oct. 9-11. The net was $7,600, with $1,000 appearing in the tip jar on Saturday alone. 53 kegs of beer were sold.  

Dungey said 132 holiday wreaths had been ordered for that fundraiser. He said some extras were ordered and are available for purchase. The fundraiser has netted $1,300. Volunteers are needed to help pick them up in Maplewood before Thanksgiving. Help is also needed to distribute them  Saturday, Nov. 28.

Smarty Gras Trivia Night will be Saturday, Feb. 20 at the Franklin Room.

Safety Report:

Bill Clendenin thanked those who took part in the Fall Safety Walk Oct. 7.

The next Safety Committee Meeting will be at 7 p.m. Nov. 30 at Soulard Station.

Adjournment:

The meeting adjourned at 8:27 p.m.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Comment

Comment

October 2015 Board Meeting Minutes

SRG Board Meeting Minutes

Tuesday Oct. 20, 2015 at Soulard Station, 1911 S. 12th St.

The meeting was called to order at 7:10 p.m. by President Mike Ziemann.

Members present: Mike Ziemann, Beth Bennett, Bill Clendenin, Luann Denten, Jeremy Mehrle, 

Jackie Parker, Steve Parker, Gary Toribio

Members absent: Sean Cochran, Alicia Stellhorn

Guests: Alex Oliver

Alex Oliver outlined plans to renovate the boarding house at 2330 S. 12th St. The building, 

nicknamed “the Soulard Hilton,” has operated as a boarding house since it was built in 1896. 

Oliver intends to convert the 31 units into 13 one-bedroom apartments, each with its own 

bathroom. He hopes for the renovation to begin by the end of 2015 and be completed by mid to 

late summer 2016. He will seek historic tax credits.

Treasurer’s Report: Accepted.

Old Business:

Oktoberfest Oct. 9-11 and Q in the Lou Sept. 25-27:

Ziemann asked Board members to share their thoughts about the two recent volunteer 

fundraising opportunities. Beth Bennett said that parking can be hard to find at downtown events, 

like Q in the Lou. She noted a shortage of volunteers and said that discourages volunteers from 

returning. Board members said both events would have benefitted from an earlier, more intense 

effort to recruit volunteers. Shift captains were needed. Jeremy Mehrle wondered if our volunteer 

corps is aging out and if an effort needs to be made to find more young volunteers. Luann 

Denten suggested the Fundraising Committee hold a ‘learn to pour beer” recruitment party. The 

location of the SRG booth at Oktoberfest was good.

Upgrades at Soulard Station:

Vicki and Jay Morris had another commitment and couldn’t be present to discuss bids for 

improvements at Soulard Station. The matter was tabled.

Holiday Parlour Tour:

Six houses and the Mad Art Gallery will be on the 2015 tour. Holiday wreaths from the wreath 

fundraiser will be purchased for each location. 

New Business:

None

Committee Reports:

Beautification:

 The art auction raised $2,300.

 The gazebo at Aboussie Park has been stained. The top still needs to be painted and steps 

still need to be installed.

 On Oct. 18, Mardi Gras Inc. Board members cleared overgrown vegetation and debris 

from the small triangle garden at South 9th and Sidney streets. In the spring, they will 

return to kill off invasive plants that were cut back.

 A gazebo has been suggested for Pontiac Square Park.

Communication:

An iPad has been purchased and is available for SRG events and fundraisers.

Code and Zoning:

Nothing, other than “the Soulard Hilton” renovation presented earlier in the meeting by Alex 

Oliver.

Fundraising:

No report.

Membership:

The Membership Committee will meet Thursday, Oct. 22. A planned Sunday painting party led 

by Linda Kurdi will on Sunday, Nov. 8. (Update: This event will take place on Sunday, Nov. 15. Check the weekly Blaster for more details.)

Residential Promotion:

 The next Local Hour will be held at 5 p.m. Thursday Oct. 22 at Fleur de Lilies, 1031 

Lynch St.

 The Creepy Cart Crawl golf cart and walking parade and trunk or treat will be Friday, 

Oct. 30. It will start at American Legion Post #422, 2601 S. 11th St. Registration begins at 

5 p.m. and the slow-moving parade will begin at 6 p.m. Residents along the parade route 

will be notified and will be encouraged to give candy to children in the parade. 

 Possible designs for Soulard-themed magnets were discussed. Jeremy Mehrle said he 

would mock-up several designs that were proposed. 2,500 magnets would cost $475.

 Mad Art Gallery owner Ron Buechele has offered the SRG use of the building at 2727 S. 

12th St. as the site of future monthly SRG General Membership meetings at no cost. 

Several Board members said that they thought the current meeting location at Sts. Peter 

and Paul Catholic Church, 1919 S. 7th St., is more centrally located. Members’ opinions 

will be sought and the matter will again be discussed at the next Board meeting. 

 Anheuser-Busch, which is paying for the entry marker signs, has asked, for insurance 

purposes, who will legally take ownership of the signs. Our insurance rider will be 

researched. 

Safety:

 The working group on the proposed security cameras will meet Thursday, Oct. 22 to 

discuss what entity will take the lead on matters like contracts.

 A recent purse snatching resulted in serious injuries with the victim being taken to the 

hospital.

Mardi Gras Inc.

MGI is looking for a new police staging area in the Mardi Gras Red Zone because the old 

Lafayette School is being renovated as apartments and won’t be available.

Renaissance:

The deadline for the next issue, the Parlour Tour Edition, is Nov. 5.

Soulard Station:

New commemoration bricks at Soulard Station will be ordered in early November. Anyone 

interested in purchasing a brick should contact Vicki Morris. 

Adjournment:

The meeting adjourned at 9:26 p.m.

Comment

Comment

October 2015 General Meeting Minutes

October 2015 SRG GENERAL MEMBERSHIP MEETING

Oct. 7, 2015 

Location: Sts. Peter and Paul Catholic Church, 1919 S. 7th St.

The meeting was called to order by President-Elect Bill Clendenin at 7 p.m.

Board members in attendance: Bill Clendenin, Sean Cochran, Beth Bennett, Luann Denten, 

Jackie Parker, Steve Parker, Gary Toribio

Board members absent: Jeremy Mehrle, Alicia Stellhorn, Mike Ziemann 

Elected officials in attendance: Alderman Jack Coatar, Alderman Ken Ortmann. 

Secretary’s Minutes:

Printed copies of the minutes from the Sept. 2 General Membership Meeting and the Sept. 16 

Board Meeting were unavailable. Consideration of the minutes was delayed until the Nov. 4 

General Membership Meeting. 

Treasurer’s Report: 

Treasurer’s Report was approved.

New Members

Two new members introduced themselves. 

Police Report:

Capt. Shawn Dace and Maj. Michael Sack introduced themselves. Capt. Dace was assigned as 

Third District commander on Oct. 5. He previously was commander of the Public Housing Unit. 

Maj. Sack is the new commander of the Central Patrol Division. He previously headed the 

Crimes Against Persons and Property unit.

Officer Brian Min:

Officer Min said July crimes included:

 Four assaults (but only one was really in the neighborhood.)

 Nine stolen autos (One was a domestic issue. One involved a pizza delivery in which the 

car was left running.)

 Four burglaries (two residential, one business, one garage.)

 One robbery (victim was intoxicated, approached from behind and knocked to the 

ground.) 

 17 larcenies

 17 thefts (one victim had been drinking, passed out on front steps and his wallet and cell 

phone were stolen.)

Officer Min said GCI Security wrote several summonses for quality of life issues, including a 

summons against the Historic Crossroads bar, 2201 S. 7th St., for having no commercial 

dumpster. (A neighbor had complained on Nextdoor Soulard that garbage was being burned in a 

fire pit outside the bar.)

Maj. Sack said there has been an upsurge of tires being stolen off cars since early July. “Please 

call if you see someone changing a tire and not putting one back on.” Maj. Sack also said people 

using Craig’s List had been robbed when meeting prospective “buyers.’ He suggested scheduling 

any transaction in a public place, such as a library or police station. “If they change the location, 

don’t go.”

Paul Kjorlie complained that television stations recently reported some crimes had occurred in 

Soulard when they actually were in neighboring areas. 

Guest speaker: 

Haliday Douglas, director of the St. Louis Public Schools Office of Talent Strategy and 

Management, introduced himself and described his duties, including updating the school 

district’s strategic plan. He noted that teachers have gone seven years without a raise. He brought 

copies of the 2016-17 Magnet School Guide for members to take. Douglas said the district has 

many volunteer opportunities (www.stlvolunteer.org/slps). He welcomed calls on his private cell 

phone, 314-762-8794. Richard Eaton congratulated the school district for Kennard Classical 

Junior Academy, 5031 Potomac St., being honored as a National Blue Ribbon School.

Old Business:

Parlour Tour Update:

Six or seven houses plus the Mad Art Gallery, 2727 S. 12 St., will be on the 2015 tour. The tour 

started in 1976, so this is its 40th year.

Oktoberfest: 

A volunteer sign-up sheet was circulated. About half of the needed 75 slots have been filled. 

Volunteers get free food and beer. The SRG Beer Booth will be in a better location than last year 

for the Oct. 9-11 event.

Soulard Security Cameras:

Bill Clendenin said that the Mardi Gras Foundation had granted $23,000 for the security camera 

system. He thanked those who wrote letters supporting the grant application. Jackie Parker 

thanked Clendenin and Soulard Business Association President Dan Shields for shepherding the 

application to success.

New Business:

Soulard Royalty: 

Luann Denten said that a lottery system was used to choose the royalty for the 2016 Vices & 

Virtues Mardi Gras Ball on Jan. 16. Out of more than 50 entries, Alan Ziegler was selected.

Rescheduled SRG Board Meeting:

The meeting date has been changed to Tuesday, Oct. 20.

Gene Slay’s Boys’ Club:

Lisa Otke noted that Gene Slay’s Boys’ Club, 2524 S. 11th St., has started accepting girls and will 

change its name to reflect that.

Committee Reports:

American Legion Post 422 Report:

Mr. Bill Wirtel reported that:

 Sgt. Ed Bielik, veteran of World War II and Korea, was one of 22 area veterans on the 

Greater St. Louis Honor Flight to Washington on Tuesday, Sept. 29. Upon  his return to 

Lambert International Airport, he was welcomed home by Auxiliary and Legion 

members and his family. His sponsor and escort was former Legion Post Commander 

Erin Slawinski.

 Two female and two male disabled veterans were presented Ambucs trykes on Sept. 26. 

Three more will be presented in October, bringing the total to 16.

 The Third Friday Family Happy Hour Sept. 18 was a success, with music provided by 

Officer Brian Min, retired Officer “Elvis” Ruzika and David Dee.

 Jessica Tipton will provide the music at the Oct. 15 Third Friday Family Happy Hour. 

The event runs from 5 to 8 p.m. and includes a chili cook-off.

 The parking lot paving will be completed on Friday, Oct. 9.

Soulard Business Association Report:

SBA President Dan Shields said SBA Board members would be among those joining Mardi Gras 

Inc. in cleaning the small triangle garden at S. 9th and Sidney streets on Oct. 18.

Julie Price said the SBA would conduct voting on the Mardi Gras poster at its booth at 

Oktoberfest Oct. 9-11. The winning entry gets $1,000. Votes can be cast at the booth or online.

Mardi Gras Inc. Report:

Billy Tomber said the revenue report on Q in the Lou is still to come. Twelfth Night on Jan.6 is 

the next big MGI event. The theme for the upcoming Mardi Gras is “all things sports.” 

Beautification Report:

Richard Eaton said a second coat of stain was applied today to the gazebo in Aboussie Park. He 

thanked those who helped. 

Eaton said $2,300 was raised at the art auction.

He thanked John Durnell for cleaning up the memory garden behind the bandstand at Soulard 

Market Park. 

John Durnell thanked Alderman Jack Coatar and former Alderman Phyllis Young for getting the 

iron fence installed at the Soulard Market Park bandstand, and said it already has discouraged 

vagrants from gathering there.

Communications Report:

The deadline for the Parlour Tour edition of the Renaissance is Nov. 5.

Code and Zoning Report:

Jay Gibbs reported that the boarding house at 2330 S. 12th St. nicknamed “the Soulard Hilton” 

will be renovated into 13 one-bedroom apartments. The boarding house currently has 31 units. It 

has operated as a boarding house since it was built in 1896. He said he believed it would have 

three off-street parking spaces with the rest on the street.

Fundraising report:

Rick Dungey thanked volunteers who worked at Q in the Lou Sept. 25-27. 

Dungey said that the minimum order  in the holiday wreath fundraising effort is 40. He reminded 

SRG members that many had pledged to order them and said that only 33 orders had been 

placed. (Seven more pledges were made at tonight’s meeting, reaching the minimum of 40.) He 

said the wreaths probably will be distributed Saturday, Nov. 28. Dungey said that someone on 

Nextdoor Soulard had suggested that business owners buy undecorated wreaths and decorate in 

their business’ theme. He challenged business owners to do so. The deadline to order wreaths is 

Oct. 31.

Membership Report:

Tonight’s social is being hosted by Cathy Weldon at The Porch, 1700 S. 9th St.

New membership rosters are available tonight on the back table.

Residential Promotion Report:

The next Local Hour will be held at 5 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 22 at Fleur de Lilies, 1031 Lynch St.

The Creepy Cart Crawl golf cart and walking parade and trunk or treat will be Friday, Oct. 30. It 

will start at American Legion Post #422, 2601 S. 11th St. Registration begins at 5 p.m. and the 

slow-moving parade will begin at 6 p.m. Residents along the parade route will be notified and 

will be encouraged to give candy to children in the parade. 

She said the entry marker sign pole should be shipped by the end of October.

Safety Report:

Bill Clendenin reminded members that the Fall Safety Walk follows tonight’s meeting. He said 

participants should be especially mindful of street lights that are out, alley lights that are out and 

graffiti.

Adjournment:

The meeting adjourned at 8:14 p.m.

Comment

Comment

September 2015 Board Meeting Minutes

SRG Board Meeting Minutes

Wednesday, Sept. 16, 2015 at Soulard Station, 1911 S. 12th St.

The meeting was called to order at 7:11 p.m. by President Mike Ziemann.

Members present: Mike Ziemann, Beth Bennett, Bill Clendenin, Sean Cochran, Luann Denten, Jackie Parker, Steve Parker, Gary Toribio

Members absent: Jeremy Mehrle, Alicia Stellhorn

Guests: None

Old Business:

Oktoberfest Oct. 9-11:

Ziemann reported that Fundraising Committee Chairman Rick Dungey had signed an Oktoberfest contract at the request of organizer John McKinstry. Ziemann said the SRG beer booth will be located in a high-traffic area. He said the vast majority of sales this year should be cash sales. 64 wrist bands have been requested for SRG volunteers. Recruitment of volunteers is running behind schedule.

Q in the Lou Sept. 25-27:

Recruitment of volunteers for this event also is running behind schedule. (In response to an inquiry, Billy Tomber texted during the meeting that signup sheets would be going out Sept. 17.)

Trops:

Trops has hired uniformed security guards for weekend shifts. Ziemann said the owners appeared to be trying to address neighbors’ complaints but that “their learning curve seems to be very steep.”

Jackie Parker relayed that Jeremy Mehrle had said that after 10 p.m. some Trops patrons are looking for a fight. (During the SRG Board Meeting, multiple police cars responded to a fight utside the establishment.)

There was some discussion about whether Trops was in violation of the Occupancy Code and whether its customers are parking illegally. There was also discussion about whether Trops can be held responsible for what its patrons do outside the business. Bill Clendenin noted that the liquor licensing procedure does grant more weight to the concerns of nearby residents. 

Gary Toribio said that people with concerns about Trops should voice them to the alderman and the excise commissioner. Mike Ziemann added that if someone sees a law being violated, they should call the police. Luann Denten noted that no one has come to the SRG Board asking for any action regarding Trops. She said that Board members should individually drop by Trops to let them know we are aware of the establishment and that we are keeping an eye on it.

Offer of Queen of Hearts Statue for Pontiac Square Park:

Luann Denten said she had contacted the City Cultural Resources concerning an offer to donate the Queen of Hearts sculpture to be placed in Pontiac Square Park. (At the August SRG Board Meeting, some members questioned whether the “modern art” statue was appropriate for the park.) Denten produced a letter from Betsy Bradley, director of the City Cultural Resources Office, in which she said that because of the statue’s “sexual nature” she would not approve it at a staff level nor recommend it to the Preservation Board for approval. Denten said that she would send the artist a copy of Bradley’s letter and a letter from the SRG Board thanking the artist for the offer but declining it.

October Meetings:

President-Elect Bill Clendenin will preside at the Oct. 7 SRG General Membership Meeting in the absence of President Mike Ziemann.

The SRG Board Meeting will be held Tuesday, Oct. 20, at Soulard Station, a day earlier than the normal third Wednesday of the month meeting date, because four members have other plans.

New Business:

Parlour Tour Happy Hour: 

Ziemann reminded Board members that they are invited to attend an SRG Holiday Parlour Tour informational happy hour at Fleur de Lilies on Thursday, Sept. 17 from 6 to 8:30 p.m. 

Soulard Station Upgrades:

The Board discussed bids for two Soulard Station improvement projects: an extension of the concrete sidewalk and an improved air-conditioning system. The sidewalk proposal was tabled so that three bids can be sought. The air-conditioning proposal was tabled so that Jay Morris can answer Board questions about its capacity, duct work and any additional work that the installation might cause (i.e. painting.) Board members are to be provided copies of bids before the next Board meeting.

Committee Reports:

Beautification:

Work should begin soon on gates and fences at the Soulard Market Park bandstand, intended to discourage homeless people from gathering there.

All ash trees in Soulard Market Park will be removed in the next few weeks because of the presence of the ash bore beetle, which destroys ash trees. The trees will be replaced with other varieties. The City Parks Department has asked for help in making the public aware of why the trees are being removed. A notice went out in the Blaster Sept. 16. 

Dirt and mulch supplied by the Parks Department was spread around the base of the gazebo in Aboussie Park to hide its footings. 

An auction of art produced during the Soulard Garden Tour will be held Oct. 2 at Soulard Station. Doors open at 6 p.m. and the auction starts at 7 p.m. Sean Cochran will be the 

auctioneer.

Communication:

No report.

Code and Zoning:

Renovations are taking place at an apartment building at Russell Boulevard and S. 9th Street.

Rehab work is planned for the building that houses D’s Place, 900 Barton Street, and an adjacent building. The project, which will result in six one-bedroom units and two three-bedroom units, is asking for tax abatement, which the Code and Zoning Committee opposes. D’s Place plans to put a patio behind the building.

The apartment building nicknamed “Soulard Hilton” at South 12th and Lami streets has been sold and will be renovated. A resident reportedly was told they have 10 days to move out.

Bill Clendenin asked for an explanation of the Code and Zoning Committee’s opposition to tax abatements in general. Beth Bennett responded that the committee doesn’t make the decision on abatements, that its opinion is merely advisory. She said the committee follows the thinking model established by former Alderman Phyllis Young. Mike Ziemann said that tax abatement for homeowners is generally OK, but that abatement for commercial rehab project isn’t. Tax credits, he said, are fair game for commercial projects.

Fundraising:

Holiday wreaths can now be ordered online at soulard.org. A minimum of 40 wreaths must be ordered for the fundraiser to take place.

Volunteers are needed for the SRG beer booths at Oktoberfest and Q in the Lou.

Luann Denten noted the Renaissance article about the next Vices & Virtues Mardi Gras Ball and said that tickets will be offered first to those who attended the inaugural event.

Membership:

An art class is being planned, perhaps for a Sunday evening. A membership drive is being planned, perhaps at Vincent’s Market, 2400 S. 12th Street.

Residential Promotion:

The next Local Hour will be held at 5 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 24 at Twisted RAnCH, 1730 S. 8th St.

The new Soulard flags are available for purchase. They are $40.

New Soulard T-shirts are being ordered and offered to guests at the Holiday Parlour Tour.  

Stone-washed T-shirts will be added to the inventory. A small advance order of stone-washed shirts, pictured in one of the Off the Island photos in the current Renaissance, sold out.

Soulard stickers or magnets might be purchased so they can be given to SRG members.

14-foot poles for the entry marker signs have arrived and installation will begin so that the signs can be posted as they arrive. The first signs should arrive in about five weeks. An entry marker sign will be pictured on the updated Soulard brochure.

Police Officer Brian Min will provide the music at the Sept. 18 American Legion Post 422 

Happy Hour.

Safety:

The Fall Safety Walk will be immediately after the Oct. 7 SRG General Membership Meeting. 

We are awaiting word on the grant application for funding from Mardi Gras Foundation for security cameras in Soulard. 

The 1860’s Saloon, 1860 S. 9th St., will hold a golf tournament on Monday Oct. 19 to raise funds for the security camera project. The golf tournament will be in Forest Park, with registration through 11 a.m. and a noon shotgun start. 

Mardi Gras Inc.

Jackie Parker passed around a copy of the minutes from the MGI August meeting. She said that MGI Director Tim Lorson reported that the Aug. 29 Taste of Lumiere event was lightly attended.  

Record attendance is expected at LouFest Sept. 12-13 in Forest Park. MGI made about $11,000 last year and is hoping to make that again. The Balloon Glow and Race in Forest Park is Sept. 18-19. MGI raised about $10,000 last year.

The Q in the Lou event Sept. 25-26 is being produced by Eximius Productions, the company headed by Lorson and Brian Wahby. It’s estimated that it will cost $250,000 to produce. MGI is to receive 15 percent of all sales. The SRG will receive 15 percent of sales at its beer booth, which is the same percentage we used to receive at Taste of St. Louis when it was downtown. 

Joe Ambrose, First Bank’s Midwest regional president, will be Rex, king of Carnival, at Soulard Mardi Gras 2015. “All things sports” is the theme of this year’s Mardi Gras.

Luann Denten suggested a get-acquainted gathering Monday, Nov. 9, of members of SRG, MGI, Mardi Gras Foundation, Soulard Business Association. Soulard Special Business District and the Soulard Market Vendors Association. Denten said she would extend the invitations.

Safety:

It was suggested that we ask Officer Brian Min to reach out to the Darkness Haunted House to request that their private security monitor parked cars in the immediate vicinity of the building.  In both 2013 and 2014, Soulard experienced increases in larcenies in October, some of which may be attributable to increased Halloween-related activity.

Renaissance:

The current issue came out Sept. 16. The deadline for the next issue, the Parlour Tour Edition, is Nov. 5.

Adjournment:

The meeting adjourned at 9:49 p.m.

Comment

Comment

September 2015 General Meeting Minutes

SEPTEMBER 2015 SRG GENERAL MEMBERSHIP MEETING

Sept. 2, 2015

Location: Sts. Peter and Paul Catholic Church, 1919 S. 7th St.

Meeting was called to order by President Mike Ziemann at 7:09 p.m.

Board members in attendance: Mike Ziemann, Beth Bennett, Bill Clendenin, Luann Denten, Jeremy Mehrle, Jackie Parker, Steve Parker, Gary Toribio

Board members absent: Sean Cochran, Alicia Stellhorn

Elected officials in attendance: Alderman Jack Coatar

SRG Board resignation:

Ziemann announced that Past President Nancy Kelly had resigned from the Board, citing inflexible vacation, family and travel commitments through December.

Tonight’s Social:

The social after tonight’s meeting will be at American Legion Post 422, 2601 S. 11th St.

New Members:

Four new members introduced themselves. 

Chad Allen and Jim Hayden, owners of Twisted RAnCh restaurant, 1730 S. 8th St., introduced themselves and said they were excited to be part of the neighborhood. Local Hour on Thursday, 

Sept. 24 will be at Twisted RAnCH.

Secretary’s Minutes:

Minutes from the Aug. 5 SRG General Membership Meeting and the Aug. 12 SRG Board Meeting were submitted and approved by the membership.

Treasurer’s Report:

Treasurer’s Report was approved.

Police Report:

Safety Committee Chairman Bill Clendenin presented the police report in the absence of officer Brian Min, who is vacationing. 

Clendenin said August crimes included:  

 Six armed robberies

 Four burglaries

 Six auto thefts

 11 larcenies

(A report giving a monthly crime statistics breakdown dating back to 2009 was placed on each table before the meeting started.) 

Clendenin noted that the six armed robberies in August were more than the total for the first seven months of 2015 combined. He said police had cleared at least four of the cases. Ziemann asked Clendenin to give the Safety Committee report while he had the floor.

Safety Committee Report:

Clendenin circulated a victim impact statement in the case against the defendant in several business burglaries, including Riley’s Florist, 1705 S. 7th St. Clendenin explained that residents’ signatures shouldn’t include names or specific addresses but should be general. For example: A resident of the Hundred block of Street Name.

The Fall Safety Walk will follow the Oct. 7 General Membership Meeting.

Star Awards Presentation:

Beautification Committee members Richard Eaton, Luann Denten, John Durnell, Luke Reynolds, 

Leah Sutphen and Mary Beth Wallace were summoned to the front of the room by Membership Committee Chairman Jill Weissgerber. 

Luke Reynolds was then presented a Star Award, with Eaton noting that Reynolds had made a complete donation of bar sales, plus provided free food and music and the venue for the annual Beautification Committee Fundraiser at Molly’s, 816 Geyer Ave. Durnell said that more than $45,000 had been raised in the five fundraisers held there. 

Joe Denten was presented a Star Award by Wade Weistreich, who said it had been difficult to keep Denten’s award a secret because “the person who is receiving the award also makes the awards.” Weistreich noted that Denten also made the medallions for the Vices and Virtues Mardi Gras Ball and did the engravings on the Soulard wine glasses that are sold by the Residential Promotion Committee.

Wade Weistreich was then presented a Star Award by Luann Denten, who called him a “consummate volunteer.” She noted his work on the Vices and Virtues Mardi Gras Ball, including wearing a costume for a television appearance, and on the Soulard Garden Tour.

Jill Weissgerber was presented a Star Award by Luann Denten, who said the nomination had been made by the entire SRG Board. She noted Weissgerber had made a three-year commitment to being on the SRG Board when she served as president (including being president-elect and past president). Before that, Weissgerber had been chairman of the Membership Committee and resumed that position after her presidency. Denten said that Weissgerber had been the youngest SRG president ever. “Jill volunteers for everything and does it with a smile on her face,” Denten said.

Old Business:

None

New Business:

The 1860’s Saloon, 1860 S. 9th St., will hold a fundraising golf tournament on Saturday Oct. 19, with all proceeds going to the Soulard Safety Committee.

The Hot Chocolate 15k/5k on Sunday Dec. 13 will have minimal impact on the neighborhood, President Ziemann said, noting that it will be held in the early morning (the race starts at 7:30 a.m.) and involve few neighborhood streets (the race route goes south on South Broadway, south on South 7th Street to Dorcas Street, then back north on South 7th to Lafayette Avenue, where it heads west to South Tucker Boulevard.) He said the SRG would have a cheer station and pass out hot chocolate. 

Alderman Jack Coatar said he had written a letter to the city Excise Division calling for Cuz’ Bar and Grill, 1530 S. 7th Street, to not be allowed to renew its 3 a.m. liquor license. He said that Cuz’ had inadvertently allowed the license to expire. Coatar and Ziemann both noted that a fatal shooting occurred outside Cuz’ in July after an altercation inside. Coatar said that Cuz’ would still have a 1:30 a.m. liquor license. He said that most severe crimes at liquor establishments occur after 2 a.m.  He added, “Frankly, I am interested in seeing that bar go away.” He cited homicides there and called it a “nuisance to the community.”

Ziemann said that residents should call the Citizens Service Bureau if they are in need of spraying for mosquito control. Paul Kjorlie disagreed, but Ziemann said he had made inquiries and that’s what he was told.

Legion Report by Mr. Bill Wirtel:

Ed Bielik, a World World II Marine and member of American Legion Post 422 will be among 25 area veterans taking part in the Greater St. Louis Honor Flight on Tuesday, Sept. 29. Bielik’s sponsor and escort will be Erin Slawinski, past post commander. Mr. Bill invited the membership to be present at Lambert International Airport when Bielik returns from a busy day in Washington, including viewing the Changing of the Guard at Arlington National Cemetery. 

They are scheduled to return just before 8 p.m. Sept. 29 at the East Terminal aboard Southwest Airlines Flight 3125.

Four more Ambucs tricycles have been given to disabled veterans.

Officer Brian Min will provide the music at the Third Friday of the Month Happy Hour on Sept. 18.

Work outside the Legion Post continues: The sidewalk is finished, concrete is poured but the asphalt work still needs to be done.

SBA Report:

Dan Shields, SBA president and owner of D’s Place, 900 Barton St., said the .10k Challenge and Pub Crawl (which was held Sept. 5) would involve closing part of Geyer Avenue for a half hour to an hour. He said the event would benefit Gene Slay’s Boys’ Club of St. Louis, 2524 S. 11th St. 

Shields said Alderman Coatar has the full support of the SBA regarding the Cuz’ Bar & Grill situation.

Mardi Gras Inc. Report: 

Mardi Gras Fat Tuesday falls on Tuesday, Feb. 9, 2016.

Billy Tomber outlined the makeup of the Mardi Gras Inc. Board.

Tomber said that volunteer opportunities at the “Q in the Lou” BBQ festival being produced by MGI would be discussed during the Fundraising Committee report.

Soulard Parlour Tour Report:

Miriam Press gave an update on this year’s Soulard Parlour Tour, the 40th, which will be held Dec. 5-6. She invited people who are interested in being part of the tour (not necessarily this year’s) to contact a committee member. She said the committee’s goal in selecting stops is to have a mix of old and new structures with both the north and south sides of the neighborhood represented.

Beautification Report:

Richard Eaton said the Weed Warriors will be working in Aboussie Park (on south 13th Street between Sidney and Lynch Streets) from 9 to 11 a.m. on Saturday Sept. 12. The city Parks Department is being asked to truck in soil to be spread around the gazebo that’s being built there as an Eagle Scout project.

Paul Kjorlie noted that the Aug. 12 SRG Board Meeting Minutes reported a proposal to relocate the Terra Madonna sculpture to Pontiac Square Park. He asked if the name implied a religious connection and was told no.

An auction of art that was produced during “Art in the Garden” June 27, 2015, will be held from 5 to 9 p.m. Oct. 2 at Soulard Station. Proceeds will go to the Beautification Committee. Artists will be present and light refreshments will be available.

Communications Committee: 

The Renaissance deadline is 5 p.m. Sept. 4. Delivery is scheduled for the week of September 

15th.

The Soulard Directory is being updated and current information is welcomed.

Code and Zoning Committee:

The committee voted against supporting a tax abatement request for a proposed renovation of a 16-unit rental property around the corner from Hammerstone’s. Committee Chairman Jay Gibbs said the committee is fine with granting tax credits but generally is opposed to abatements.

Plans have been submitted for renovation of a single-family home, the lone house on the block in the 2700 block of South 9th Street near the Anheuser-Busch Brewery.

Gibbs said he has received reports of work being done without proper permits near Gravois Avenue, Allen Avenue and Allen Market Lane, where vacant church buildings and the Old Lucas School House are located.  He reminded members to call the city Citizen’s Bureau or the police if they see work being done without proper permits on display; do not call him.

Dave Perry asked about a garage being torn down at Henry’s Bar, 1916 S. 9th St. Gibbs said he wasn’t certain but speculated that it was part of an expansion. Gibbs noted that the business’ name had been painted on a fence and that an iron fence was put up and wondered if permits had been pulled.

Nominations are being sought for Star Awards to be given in the spring for new construction and significant renovation work.

Membership Committee: 

Jill Weissgerber said an updated membership roster should be ready by the Oct. 7 SRG General Membership Meeting. 

The Membership Committee will meet at 7 p.m. Sept. 10 at Soulard Station.

Residential Promotion:

Luann Denten showed a photo of the entry marker signs and said that the 14-foot poles to hold them reportedly have arrived. She said there would be a reception so that people can view a full-scale model.

Denten displayed the new Soulard flag, which was delivered today (Sept. 2).  It is two-sided and being sold for $40. 

She said there would be a decorated golf cart parade on Friday, Oct. 30, with prizes for the best carts. 

Soulard merchandise will soon be available online.

Fundraising Committee:

Rick Dungey outlined the SRG 2015 Christmas Wreath Fundraiser. He said the supplier, Korson’s Tree Farms in Sidney, Michigan, has won Reserve Grand Champion in the National Christmas Tree Association contest and would be providing a tree for the vice president’s residence in Washington. He said this fundraiser gives people a chance to say that their wreath came from the same company that supplied the vice president’s tree. Two sizes will be available: 24-inch for $20 and 28-inch for $30. The wreaths may be ordered bare or decorated, but the cost is the same either way. All sales will be made online through the SRG website, soulard.org. Orders probably will be distributed starting Nov. 27, the day after Thanksgiving. For any wreaths to be sold, at least 40 wreaths overall must be ordered. Deadline for sales is Oct. 31. 

Dungey asked for volunteers for the downtown “Q in the Lou” BBQ festival Sept. 25-27. SRG will have a fundraising beer booth and volunteers are being sought for four-hour shifts. He encouraged people to work multiple shifts.

Volunteers are also being sought for Oktoberfest, which is Oct. 9-11.  Paul Kjorlie asked if there was a contractual problem between the SRG and Oktoberfest organizers. Dungey said there had been some confusion last year about reimbursement for beer sales to those with VIP tickets but that the issue has been resolved.

Adjournment:

The meeting adjourned at 8:23 p.m.

Comment

Comment

August 2015 Board Meeting Minutes

SRG Board Meeting Minutes

Wednesday, Aug. 12, 2015 at Soulard Station, 1911 S. 12th St.

Meeting started at 7:10 p.m.

The meeting was called to order by President-Elect Bill Clendenin because President Mike Ziemann was delayed by traffic. Ziemann arrived a few minutes later.

Members present: Mike Ziemann, Beth Bennett, Bill Clendenin, Luann Denten, Jeremy Mehrle, Jackie Parker, Steve Parker, Alicia Stellhorn

Members absent: Sean Cochran, Gary Toribio

Board member resignation:

Past President Nancy Kelly notified the Board President and Board members by letter dated Aug. 12 that she was resigning effective immediately due to inflexible vacation, family and travel commitments through December. She said that she believed her absence from a majority of monthly meetings, Board meetings and fund-raising events while continuing to serve would be a disservice to herself and the Board.  

(Note: According to SRG Bylaws, Section 9: Resignation, Article D: If the Immediate Past President resigns from the Board, that position on the Board shall remain vacant until the term expires.)

Guests: Richard Eaton and John Durnell regarding Terra Madonna sculpture:

Richard Eaton and John Durnell presented a proposal to move the Terra Madonna sculpture by Ureil Starbuck to Pontiac Square Park to be located in one of the raised bed areas. The sculpture currently is located at Unity Christ Church, 33 N. Skinker Blvd. The property where it is now may be sold and the artist wants to find a new home before the sale. The cost to transport and erect the 11-foot-tall and 5-foot-wide sculpture is estimated at $1,500. Durnell said that the funds would come from the Beautification Committee budget. Starbuck, the artist, wants a plaque saying that the artwork is sponsored by someone to be determined.

The Board unanimously approved sending a letter of support for relocating the sculpture to Pontiac Square Park to the City Parks Department and Alderman Jack Coatar.

Budget:

There were some questions about income from the Tap ‘N’ Run event coming in $1,800 under budget. Treasurer Alicia Stellhorn said she would contact the organizers to determine the whereabouts of a check representing the shortfall, a check that has been sent to the wrong address in previous years.

Old Business:

Hot Chocolate Run Volunteer Opportunity

Luann Denten and Jackie Parker both attended a planning meeting for the Hot Chocolate 15k-5k, which will be the morning of Dec. 13.  Denten talked with the event’s volunteer coordinator, who outlined a plan for paying $10 per volunteer for 50 volunteers per shift, with up to five shifts. Jackie Parker said that at the same meeting, she and Billy Tomber had talked with Kyle Cameron of RAM Racing, who is heading the local Hot Chocolate event. Cameron, Tomber and Parker came up with the idea that SRG provide one cheer station and pass out chocolates at a location to be determined. Jackie Parker said that they had agreed that the payment-per-volunteer idea would be too taxing for the SRG membership coming so quickly after the Holiday Parlour Tour. Parker said she and Tomber told Cameron that the SRG receives $1,000 for the cheer station for Tap ‘N’ Run.

The SRG Board indicated its support for having a cheer station at the Hot Chocolate run.

Star Awards:

Star Awards will be given at the Sept. 2 SRG General Membership Meeting.

Oktoberfest:

Satisfactory contract revisions have been made and the SRG’s booth location looks good.

New Business:

SBA:

The Soulard Business Association wants to make the Soulard Alliance a branch of the SBA and use it as a public relations and marketing tool. The SBA wants a consolidated calendar of neighborhood events that would include some of the SRG’s big events, but they are not seeking to replace the Blaster or Soulard.org. The SBA is paying for the production of updated Soulard brochures that would include information for a walking tour of the neighborhood.

The .10K Challenge and Pub Crawl will be Sept. 5, covering roughly two blocks from the Great Grizzly Bear, 1027 Geyer Ave., to Molly’s 816 Geyer Ave.

The 1860’s Saloon, 1860 S.9th St., will sponsor at golf tournament Monday, Oct. 19, with proceeds going to the Soulard Safety Committee.

The SBA is against having fund-raising booths at Ballpark Village events.

Trops Concerns:

Concerns were expressed about trash resulting from patrons of Trops, 1800 S. 10th St. Jeremy Mehrle said that neighbors have talked to the owners of Trops about the situation and that they indicated improvements would be forthcoming. Mike Ziemann said he also would talk to the owners and that SRG Board members should continue to monitor the situation. The Board would write a warning letter if necessary.

Another sculpture offer for Pontiac Square Park:

Luann Denten said that an artist had offered a sculpture for Pontiac Square Park as a gift, if the SRG would pay about $300 for the footings. The sculpture would go at the west entrance on the 10th Street side. She said the sculpture is complete and at the artist’s studio. She distributed a rendering of the sculpture.

Mike Ziemann asked if it meets historic code and whether it fits the feel of Pontiac Square Park. Ziemann said he anticipates that some people will say that they “aren’t sure this modern art fits what was envisioned for this park.” 

It was noted that John Durnell, during his presentation earlier in the meeting, had said that he wants Pontiac Square Park to house multiple sculptures. Steve Parker wondered whether sculptures in the park would subtract from the amount of green space and restrict recreational activities. Luann Denten said that sculptures would be located so that no open space would be lost.

Mike Ziemann said that at the Sept. 2 General Membership Meeting he would show a photo of the Terra Madonna sculpture and say that the Board had given its approval for it to be in Pontiac Square Park. He said he would ask someone from the Beautification Committee to present the second proposal. He said he would ask for SRG members’ thoughts.

Luann Denten said that she would ask the city’s Cultural Resources Office if the second sculpture is appropriate for the park.

Committee Reports:

Communications:

iPad being purchased to serve as Square at fund-raising events. Sept. 4 is the next deadline for the Oktoberfest edition of the Renaissance.

Code and Zoning:

Ryan Brockschmitt posted on his ILoveSoulard.com site that JDS Properties had recently uploaded a video tour of the vacant building at South 9th and Lami streets. The video discusses what would be required to rehab the building. It’s unclear what is happening at the site.

 

Fundraising:

No report beyond the Hot Chocolate 15k/5k event on Dec. 13 discussed earlier.

Membership:

Meeting is tomorrow (Thursday, Aug. 13.)

Residential Promotion:

The Soulard flags have been sent back to the manufacturer to correct a design defect. Soulard magnets, perhaps in the shape of the Soulard Star with the Soulard.org web address, will be offered for sale.

Safety:

There were more National Night Out parties in the neighborhood this year, increasing to about five from two last year. One or two more might be added next year.

Bill Clendenin said the application for the Soulard Community Improvement Grant for the Soulard Security Camera System was still subject to review. Locations for the cameras are still subject to discussion. He distributed copies of the application to Board members.

MGI:

No report. 

Soulard Station:

Luann Denten said that Vicki Morris has requested committee chairs to send her dates of next year’s meetings that would be in the Station. Mike Ziemann reminded committee chairs to notify Vicki Morris whenever a meeting at the Station is canceled so that the venue might be used for another booking.

Adjournment:

The meeting adjourned at 9:41 p.m.

Comment

Comment

August 2015 General Meeting Minutes

August 2015 SRG GENERAL MEMBERSHIP MEETING

Aug. 5, 2015

Location: Sts. Peter and Paul Catholic Church, 1919 S. 7th St.

Meeting was called to order by president-elect Bill Clendenin at 7 p.m.

Board members in attendance: Bill Clendenin, Beth Bennett, Luann Denten, Jeremy Mehrle, Jackie Parker, Steve Parker, Gary Toribio

Board members absent: Sean Cochran, Nancy Kelly, Alicia Stellhorn, Mike Ziemann

Elected officials in attendance: State Sen. Jamilah Nasheed, Alderman Jack Coatar, Alderman Ken Ortmann.

Secretary’s Minutes:

Minutes from the June 3 General Meeting, the June 19 Board Meeting, the July 1 General Meeting and July 29 Board Meeting were submitted and approved by the membership.

Treasurer’s Report:

Treasurer’s Report was approved.

New Members

Three new members introduced themselves.

Police Report:

Officer Brian Min:

Officer Min said July crimes included:

·         Four assaults

·         One rape

·         Nine stolen auto

·         10 burglaries

·         One robbery

·         Nine larcenies, including four car break-ins

·         Four instances of property damage

Officer Min said a suspect was in custody in the burglary of Riley’s Florist, 1705 S. 7th St. That person is believed responsible for other burglaries. In several cases, burglaries occurred at unlocked garages; among items taken were a lawn mower, bicycle and lumber.

Officer Min said there’s already been a rash of holdups in August, including armed robberies in the 900 block of Geyer Avenue, 2300 block of South 12th Street, 2000 block of Menard Street and 2900 block of Menard Street.

Paul Kjorlie asked if recent TV reports about crime in Soulard were examples of “sensational reporting.” Officer Min responded that between July 21-30, there were eight car thefts, which he said could be characterized as a spree.

Detective Tom Mayer:

Det. Mayer said that despite what has recently occurred, police have been very successful in clearing up cases in Soulard.

He noted the capture of the two juveniles in the carjacking case and said that authorities were attempting to connect them to three other cases. Four other youths, one who was just 6 years old, were referred to the St. Louis Juvenile Court. Three parents were charged with contributing to the delinquency of a minor.

Kjorlie asked if police were using bait cars in an effort to catch auto thieves. Det. Mayer responded yes but noted that the program relies on stealth and said he was reluctant to share much information about it publicly.

Det. Mayer praised the SRG Safety Committee for its efforts to get security cameras in the neighborhood and called for more of them. He said that Central West End has a phenomenal camera system and that robberies were way down as a result.

Bill Clendenin said the goal is to get five or six cameras operating this year, and grow to perhaps nine by next year. Clendenin said the primary purpose of the cameras is to allow police to review video immediately after a crime, which is particularly useful in armed robberies, burglaries and auto thefts. He noted that the cameras will have software compatible with the Real Time Crime Center so that they can be monitored live during emergencies.

A grant for security cameras is being sought from the Mardi Gras Foundation. In addition, the Soulard Restoration Group and Soulard Business Association have pledged funds for cameras and the Soulard Special Business District will help pay for ongoing operations. 

Det. Mayer called Soulard a safe neighborhood when compared to most others in the city. He credited the help of residents in cleaning up cases, noting that in some neighborhoods residents are unwilling to acknowledge that they had witnessed a crime. Det. Mayer said that “pass-through crime” can occur in any neighborhood.

He was asked whether the “club” helps thwart car theft. He responded that thieves now use hacksaws, in some instances cutting through the steering wheel, and steal the car anyway.

Rick Dungey asked if many of the auto thefts involved stick shifts. “Not many,” Det. Mayer replied. In one case, he said, a manual car was abandoned a half block away from the site of the theft. But police were able to gather DNA evidence.

Det. Mayer noted the presence of elected officials State Sen. Jamilah Nasheed, Alderman Jack Coatar and Alderman Ken Ortmann. He said it reflected well on Soulard that so many officials were concerned about the neighborhood. He said Coatar is frequently very helpful to police in expediting cases with the Circuit Attorney’s Office.

Det. Mayer said “the squeaky wheel gets the grease and you’ve got a state senator who’s not afraid to speak her mind.” Sen. Nasheed said she was working with others to draft legislation requiring mandatory sentences for offenses involving gun violence.

Paul Kjorlie asked Det. Mayer if he shared concerns about judges expressed by Police Chief Sam Dotson and Mayor Francis Slay. He replied that he did and that Chief Dotson has asked officers to tell him about unsatisfactory judicial performances in courtrooms. Det. Mayer added that there are lots of good judges.

Det. Mayer concluded by saying that “arrests don’t make news … violent crime makes news. Soulard’s a great neighborhood. Don’t let the bad guys take it from you.”

Guest speaker:

Maribeth Fresta, director of marketing at Catering St. Louis, asked for neighborhood support of their application for a new liquor license for Soulard Preservation Hall, 1911 S. 9th St.

American Legion Post 422 Report:

Mr. Bill Wirtel reported that:

·         Four Ambucs tricycles had been given to disabled veterans on March 21 and that five more were distributed July 18. Five more are being assembled and will be here soon. One cost $1,700. He asked for support of that program.

·         Small American flags were distributed at Soulard Market Park for the Fourth of July.

·         The Legion’s Happy Hour is held the third Friday of the month.

·         The sidewalk improvements have been made at the Legion Post.

·         On months with a fifth Friday, members of the Post visit veterans undergoing rehab at the Jefferson Barrack Veterans Hospital, and they did so on Friday July 31.

 

Soulard Business Association Report:

Dan Shield, SBA president and owner of D’s Place, 900 Barton St., said that the SBA appreciated the SRG’s push for more security cameras and that the SBA would match the SRG’s contributions for the cameras.

Soulard Market:

Free watermelon slices will be distributed Aug. 8 at Soulard Market Park to commemorate Julia Soulard’s birthday.

Mardi Gras Inc. Report:

Billy Tomber said that the next MGI event would be the “Q in the Lou” BBQ festival Sept. 25-27 in a downtown area that will have roughly the same footprint as the old Taste of St. Louis when it was downtown. SRG has been invited to have a beer booth as a fundraiser.

The MGI Board meeting is Aug. 6.

Beautification Report:

Richard Eaton said there would be no Weed Warriors this weekend because work will start on the gazebo in Aboussie Park.

Approval has been granted for a sculpture in Pontiac Square Park. The sculpture of a grouping of trees will be a walk-through experience. The fundraising goal is $80,000 to $100,000.

Volunteers from Anheuser-Busch will help Monday with gardening in Soulard Market Park and the small triangle at Ninth and Sidney streets.

Communications Report:

An iPad has been purchased that can serve as a Square Card reader at SRG fundraising events.

The deadline for the next issue of the Renaissance is Sept. 4.

Code and Zoning Report:

Jay Gibbs reported:

·         The original design of Aboussie Park, done by Paul Kjorlie, called for a gazebo.

·         City Hall has given the OK for a curb cut at 1021 Shenandoah Ave. to allow for a driveway.

·         Approval was given for a kitchen addition on the north side of the house at 2322 S. 12th Street.

·         The number of apartment units in the Lafayette School renovation has been reduced by the builder to 36 instead of the 48 to 52 originally envisioned.

·         Both the Code and Zoning Committee and the SRG Board had refused a request by the owner of Shelly’s, 2001 Menard St., for a letter requesting that the restaurant be allowed to have windows that don’t meet historic code.  The windows that were installed will have to be replaced.

·         The committee will take nominations for Star Awards for new construction and significant renovation work.

Gibbs said he was unsure about the status of the building on the southeast corner of 9th and Lami streets. Several people at the meeting offered conflicting theories.

Fundraising report:

Rick Dungey called for volunteers to work four-hour shifts at the Q in the Lou event. He said between $2,000 and $8,000 has been raised at similar events in the past.

He asked for volunteers to work four-hour shifts at Oktoberfest Oct. 9-11.

Dungey said he had learned of a fundraising opportunity that involves selling Christmas wreaths. A Christmas tree farm in Michigan specializes in doing fundraisers for non-profits. He asked residents at the SRG meeting if they would be willing to purchase a wreath and there was a significant show of hands.  He said he would prepare a proposal to present to the SRG Board.

Membership Report:

A reminder was given about SRG Night at the Gateway Grizzlies on Aug. 8.

Tonight’s Social will be at the home of Veronica and Neal Putz, 805 Allen Ave.

Residential Promotion Report:

An order for Soulard flags will have to be redone because the sleeves on the flags produced were too small for the poles. Luann Denten said she hopes to have the new flags by the next General Membership Meeting.

She thanked those who attended the Gathering of the Mob parade on July 10, saying that more than 300 people were there at one point.

She said the entry marker signs are delayed because there’s a back order on 14-foot street poles.

Safety Report:

Bill Clendenin thanked those who participated in National Night Out events Aug. 4 and said he thought there had been at least five street parties. He noted that police officers had visited several parties to become better acquainted with residents.

The next Safety Committee Meeting is 7 p.m. Aug. 31 at Soulard Station, 1911 S. 12th St.

Adjournment:

The meeting adjourned at 8:08 p.m.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Comment

Comment

July 2015 Board Meeting Minutes

Wednesday, July 15, 2015 at Soulard Station, 1911 S. 12th St.

Meeting started at 7:04 p.m.

Members present: Mike Ziemann, Beth Bennett, Bill Clendenin, Sean Cochran, Luann Denten, Jeremy Mehrle, Jackie Parker, Steve Parker, Alicia Stellhorn, Gary Toribio

Members absent: Nancy Kelly

Budget:

Treasurer Alicia Stellhorn presented the proposed Fiscal Year 2015-16 Budget. Bill Clendenin presented the Safety Committee Video Camera Proposal and Vicki Morris was present for the Soulard Station budget discussion.

Safety Committee Video Camera Proposal:

Bill Clendenin said the deadline for applying for the Mardi Gras Foundation Grant is July 30. He said an application would be made for $20,000, of which $10,000 would be this year’s grant and $10,000 would be the unused money from the entry marker project. (MGF’s previous grant wasn’t spent after Anheuser-Busch offered to pay for the entry markers.)

He said the Soulard Business Association had indicated it would pay $10,000 for buying cameras if the SRG also paid $10,000.

The total of $40,000 would pay for the purchase and installation of six cameras. Luann Denten expressed concern that the probable locations for the first six cameras didn’t include locations on the south side of the neighborhood.

The Soulard Special Business District (SSBD) has indicated it would pay up to 4 percent of its budget per year to cover $10,000 in long-term operating costs. Clendenin said that operating costs would be $1,200 to $1,800 a year per camera. SRG Board members acknowledged that the SRG might have to help pay operating costs if cameras are located outside of the SSBD boundaries. 

The security cameras would be positioned at entry points. They would be compatible with the Real Time Crime Center.

Sean Cochran asked if the cameras would have License Plate Reader (LPR) capability. Clendenin said probably not initially because of the expense. Jackie Parker noted that the Central West End’s Neighborhood Security Initiative has an elaborate system of some 75 security cameras and many of the cameras were paid for through a grant from Washington University School of Medicine.

The Board voted to spend $10,000 for the purchase of security cameras on the condition that the program be for the entire neighborhood, with locations to be determined.

Soulard Station Budget:

Vicki Morris and Alicia Stellhorn presented the Soulard Station budget request, and presented three “wish list” items: An additional air-conditioning unit in the pavilion, an extension of the aggregate sidewalk and a storage building addition. In addition, a request was made for a camera security system.

The Board indicated it would include $5,000 in capital expenditures to allow for the camera system and probably the air-conditioner.

Fiscal Year 2015-2016 Budget:

The Board unanimously approved the Fiscal Year 2015-2016 Budget.

Old Business:

Slide the City Observations:

Mike Ziemann presented photos from the Slide the City event held downtown July 11-12. Sean Cochran said that Joannie’s Pizzeria had reported making very little money from its booth at the event, saying that many people brought their own coolers with food and drinks. Cochran asked if the event would benefit the neighborhood if it were to be held in Soulard next year. Ziemann speculated that people would stick around and eat.

Gravois Road Closures Update:

The latest plan calls for updating Gravois Road but not making the side street closures that previously were envisioned.

Star Award Nominations:

Two nominations have been made and at least two more are expected. The deadline is Aug. 1.  Nominations will be presented at the September meeting.

Oktoberfest Contract:

Mike Ziemann reported that Billy Tomber and Rick Dungey had told Oktoberfest organizer John McKinstry that the SRG would participate in Oktoberfest on the condition that payment methods are revised, specifically reimbursements for Groupon tickets. SRG participants last year felt that a loophole in the agreement had deprived SRG of money it earned. That loophole has been closed, Ziemann reported.

New Business:

Shelly’s Windows:

Beth Bennett said that Shelly’s, 2001 Menard St., had windows on the north side of its building that violate code. The Cultural Resources Office told them to replace the windows.  

Mike Ziemann noted that the windows look the same as when Clementine’s was in the building. He said that only an expert on windows would detect anything amiss. He questioned whether owner Mark Packer, who is struggling with finances while trying to open the business, should be asked to pay tens of thousands of dollars more because one person had called the Citizens Service Bureau to complain.

Sean Cochran asked if Packer had pulled permits. Beth Bennett said he had not, so Cultural Resources didn’t get a say initially. Luann Denten wondered if they should be allowed to open with the condition that they come into compliance later. Beth Bennett said that CRO has the final say.

Bennett said that CRO had told Packer to replace the windows, prompting him to ask the SRG Board to write a letter on Shelly’s behalf. The SRG Board decided not to write a letter.

SBA Communication:

It was suggested that the SBA be added to the reports part of the SRG General Membership Meeting agenda, similar to the monthly American Legion Post 422 report. Dan Shields, SBA president and owner of D’s Place, 900 Barton St., will be offered the opportunity to make a monthly SBA report.

Hot Chocolate Race:

A planning meeting will be held July 23 at Baileys’ Chocolate Bar, 1915 Park Ave. in Lafayette Square, to discuss the race. Ziemann said the race would have a minimal effect on Soulard.

Change of Date for August Board Meeting:

The August Board Meeting will be held Wednesday, Aug. 12. President-elect Bill Clendenin will run the Aug. 5 General Membership Meeting because Mike Ziemann will be out of town.

Homeless in Soulard Market:

Alicia Stellhorn reported increasing concerns about problems caused by homeless people in Soulard Market Park. A homeless person was involved in a fight at the July 11 concert. A suspect was pinned down and it took 12 minutes for police to respond, after a GCI security officer allegedly chose not to act because he was alone. There were also concerns about an influx of homeless because of the newly opened shelter at 800 N. Tucker Blvd.

Committee Reports:

Communications:

The committee budgeted money to purchase an iPad Square to facilitate sales at various SRG events. Board members noted that the expense should be assigned to the SRG Board Budget because the square can be used at all fundraisers.

Beautification:

The Art in the Garden Tour June 29 was a huge success, with 300 people taking part, up from 130 last year. There was music in every garden. The auction of art from the tour will be Oct. 2.

Beth Bennett noted that the location of the gazebo that had been planned for Soulard Station has been shifted to Aboussie Park, on the west side of South 13th Street between Sidney and Lynch streets.

Code and Zoning:

Beth Bennett referred to the earlier discussion on the windows at Shelly’s.

Fundraising:

No report.

Safety:

National Night Out is Tuesday, Aug. 4. Sites mentioned were Pontiac Square Park, Aboussie Park and the 2600 block of S. 11th Street. Jackie Parker asked that street closings be submitted for publication in the Blaster.

Membership:

SRG Night at the Gateway Grizzlies game will be Aug. 8. Tickets are $35 a person and includes shuttle rides to and from the game, a ticket to the game, beer at the ballpark and free admission to SRG’s own private after-party at the OZ nightclub prior to its regular nightly opening. Bill Clendenin will throw out the first pitch in Mike Ziemann’s absence.

A Membership Paint Night is being planned. Admission charges will pay for the cost of the events. Details to come.

Residential Promotion:

Soulard flags are on order. Attendance at Bastille en Vogue July 12 at Franco, 1535 S. 8th St., was down from 2014 but it raised more money than last year’s inaugural event.

Luann Denten characterized the Gathering of the Mob parade July 10 as phenomenal.

MGI:

MGI approved its budget.

Adjournment:

The meeting adjourned at 10:12 p.m.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Comment

Comment

July 2015 General Meeting Minutes

July 1, 2015 

Location: Sts. Peter and Paul Catholic Church, 1919 S. 7th St.

Meeting started at 7:05 p.m.

Board members in attendance: Mike Ziemann, Beth Bennett, Sean Cochran, Luann Denten, Bill Clendenin, Jeremy Mehrle, Gary Toribio

Board members absent: Alicia Stellhorn, Jackie Parker, Steve Parker, Nancy Kelly

Aldermen in attendance: Jack Coatar, Ken Ortmann

State Senator Jamiliah Nasheed (District 5) did not attend the meeting although she had previously asked President, Mike Ziemann, to be placed on the meeting agenda as a guest speaker.

Secretary’s minutes
Although minutes from the June 3, 2015 General Meeting and June 23 Board Meeting were prepared and electronic copies were on the SRG Website, paper copies were not available at this July 1st  meeting. Therefore Mike Ziemann delayed approval of these minutes until the next general membership meeting in August.

Treasurer’s report
Treasurer’s Report was not provided but will be presented at the next general membership meeting in August.

New members
Three new members introduced themselves. Chris Conrad and Karl & Bridget Zimmerman.

Police report
Officer Min was on vacation, therefore there was no police report. 
Bill Clendenin explained that he was circulating a Neighborhood Impact Statement petition for residents to sign during the meeting. The NIS addresses the impact of crime to our neighborhood and will hopefully be given consideration during the sentencing of several criminals found guilty in the May 2015 timeframe.

Old business
Tap ‘N’ Run 
Mike Ziemann reported that the run was successful with 1,698 participants on June 6, and SRG received $4,000 for our volunteers that helped staff the event.  Mike asked members to email him at president@soulard.org with any constructive criticism, comments or recommendations for next year’s event.

Soulard Mardi Gras Foundation Grant - Video cameras proposal
SRG, Soulard Business Association and Soulard Special Business District have been working on the initiation of a video camera surveillance program for the Soulard neighborhood. SRG Board was to visit the St Louis Metropolitan Police Dept. Real Time Crime Center to get a better understanding about the proposed surveillance program. The SRG Board intends to submit the first phase of the surveillance program for this year’s MGF grant.

New business
Gravois Road discussion
Mike Ziemann reported that MODOT is having a public meeting to discuss proposed improvements to the Gravois Road Corridor on Tuesday, July 14, starting at 6 p.m. in the 5 Star Senior Center. Everyone is welcome to attend. 

Parking rates and meter feedback
Mike Ziemann explained that the city is raising parking rates slightly on July 2, 2015; and has been installing automated meters.  This may affect some parking in Soulard.  He also mentioned that the city is soliciting feedback on the meters.

St. Louis City Treasurer Tishaura Jones is responsible for managing the city's parking enforcement, including parking meters.  Comments and feedback on parking meters can be made on the Treasurer's Office website: 
https://www.stlouis-mo.gov/government/departments/treasurer/parking-technology-survey.cfm
Or Twitter account (@stltreasurer [twitter.com], #stlparkingmeters [twitter.com]), and Facebook page (StlTreasurer [www.facebook.com]).

Soulard Star mominations
The Blaster noted that nominations are being accepted for the coveted Soulard Star Award that recognizes outstanding SRG volunteers. The deadline for nominations is Aug. 1 and winners will be announced at the September general membership meeting on Sept. 2. Follow the nomination process in the Blaster to fill out and submit the online application for the Soulard Star Award at: http://www.soulard.org/star-award

American Legion Post 422 report
Mr. Bill Wirtel said the contractor has begun concrete work.  The asphalt parking lot will repaved, and then the sidewalks will be repaired.
The 3rd Friday Family Happy Hour will be July 17 from 5 to 8 p.m.  It will have a Hawaiian theme along with live music.
Flag Day was June 14 and the Legion Post had collected 200 American flags from Soulard that were in the ceremonies and properly destroyed.

MGI report
Gary Toribio mentioned that there will be a Halfway to Mardi Gras Pub Crawl in Soulard on Saturday, Aug. 23 from noon to 5 p.m. Free trolleys will also be in operation. MGI is not involved in any other halfway to Mardi Gras events.
The next MGI board meeting is Thursday, July 9.
He reminded the membership that Mardi Gras Foundation is separate from Mardi Gras Inc. and has a totally different board of directors none of whom are appointed by SRG.  
MGF decides on the awarding of the grant money from the Mayor’s Ball. Lisa Otke and Jay 
Dinklemann are on the MGF board and are also SRG members. They can be asked to support 
our upcoming grant request for the video camera surveillance program.

Committee reports

Beautification
Richard Eaton reported that the committee has done a cleanup of the South 9th & Sidney streets median as well as the Soulard Market. There was also a good turnout of the Weed Warriors at Pontiac Square Park.
The next Weed Warrior day is July 11 starting at 9 a.m. at Pontiac Square Park and will include work at Aboussie Park on South 13th Street and getting the large flower pots set at intersections. There will also be volunteer assistance from outside Soulard.
Richard also said that the Art in the Garden Tour on June 27 was very successful with good interest. Luann Denten said the tour was amazing. The 10 major SRG volunteers that were instrumental to the success of the tour were asked to stand and be recognized. There were 300 people at this year’s tour in comparison to 147 in 2014. It also had coverage by Fox 2, Channel 5, the Post-Dispatch and the Riverfront Times. There were seven pieces of art sold during the tour. The remainder of the artwork will be sold at the auction on Oct. 2 at Soulard Station.
Paul Kjorlie pointed out that the city will no longer automatically spray for mosquitoes unless the neighborhood requests it.

Communications
Jeremy Mehrle reminded the membership that the deadline for the Oktoberfest edition of the Renaissance is Sept. 4 by 5 p.m. Articles can be sent to editor@soulard.org.
Also, the watch party for the World Naked Bike Ride on Saturday, July 18 will be at South 12th & Sidney streets. More details will be announced in the Blaster.

Code and Zoning
Jay Gibbs gave an update that there is construction going on in Soulard but there aren’t currently many controversial issues associated with it.
Rick Dungey pointed out that Phase 1 of restoration of the house at South 10th Street & Allen Avenue is completed and looks spectacular. Jay explained that there is to be an addition on the south end of the house, and it will become two houses with one garage.

Fundraising
Rick Dungey reported that he received the most recent vendor contract for Soulard Oktoberfest 2015. The commission rates that were in the 2014 contract were not as favorable to SRG as it was previously. So he and Billy Tomber are trying to make proposed edits to the contract. Oktoberfest 2015 will once again be the second weekend of October, on Oct. 9-11, and at the same location as last year on the parking lots east of South Seventh Street across from Soulard Market and Riley's Florist.

Membership
The committee reminded everyone that SRG Night at the Gateway Grizzlies game will be Aug. 8. Tickets are $35 a person and includes Molly’s shuttle van rides to and from the game, a ticket to the game, beer at the ballpark and free admission to SRG’s own private after-party at the OZ nightclub (including benefits) prior to its regular nightly opening. If interested in attending, email membership@soulard.org .
Information on the Star Awards and nominations are in the Blaster and on the website.

Residential promotion
Luann Denten said there will once again be a Halloween decorated Golf Card Parade on Friday, Oct. 30. There were 32 carts that participated in 2014 and hopes are to have more this year.
Luann Denten said she placed the order for flags with the SRG logo. The flags will be green with gold lettering, two-sided and measure 3-feet by 5-feet.
The Bastille Days Celebration will begin at 5 p.m. Friday, July 10, with the Gathering of the Mob at Howards, South 13th and Lynch streets and proceed through the neighborhood.
On Saturday, July 11, Liquid Gold will play at 6 p.m. as part of the Soulard Free Concert Series in Soulard Market Park.  
Bastille en Vogue will again be at Franco on Sunday July 12 at 6 p.m. Tickets are $25 per person and available at eventbrite.com. All information is in the Blaster.

Safety
Bill Clendenin thanked the residents that attended the last five sentencing hearings and support of the victims. There will be more hearings later in the summer.
National Night Out is Tuesday Aug. 4. Anyone wanting to participate with their own block party needs to go through their Neighborhood Stabilization Officer. The deadline for registering your block is July 22.

Announcements
Tonight’s Social was to be in the backyard of Andy Friederich’s home but due to the forecast for severe thunderstorms, it was hosted by Andy at Henry’s Bar at 1916 South 9th Street.

Adjournment
A motion to adjourn was made by Julie Dinkelmann and seconded by Richard Eaton; all voted in favor of the motion.

The meeting adjourned at 7:45 p.m.

Comment

Comment

June 2015 Board Meeting Minutes

SRG Board Meeting Minutes

Wednesday, June 13, 2015 at American Legion Post 422 at 2601 S. 11th St.

Meeting started at 9 a.m.

Members present: Mike Ziemann, Beth Bennett, Bill Clendenin, Sean Cochran, Luann Denten, Nancy Kelly, Jackie Parker, Steve Parker, Gary Toribio

Members absent: Jeremy Mehrle, Alicia Stellhorn

Budget:

The Board voted to finalize the Fiscal Year 2015-2016 Budget at its July 15 Board Meeting and to have it ready for distribution to SRG membership at the Aug. 5 SRG General Membership Meeting.

Old Business:

Tap ‘N’ Run Review:

Mike Ziemann said that Matt Roberts, executive director at JAM Active, wanted feedback on the Tap ‘N’ Run event in Soulard on June 6, 2015.

Ziemann said fliers informing residents were distributed too late and should have gone to more people. Beth Bennett suggested fliers go to the whole neighborhood.

Ziemann said that many of the designated pass-through points for traffic were not staffed. Jackie Parker said SRG’s Tap ‘N’ Run coordinator Billy Tomber had told her that there weren’t enough volunteers to have someone at all of the pass-through points.

Beth Bennett reported that volunteers at the starting line beer station where she worked were told not to drink Tap ‘N’ Run beer until the event was over, although two JAM Active workers drank beer. Board members noted that a large amount of beer was poured out at event’s end. Members agreed to tell JAM Active that volunteers should be allowed to drink beer as a benefit of working the event.

All in all, the event went relatively well, Ziemann said. Sean Cochran added that the event route was spotless afterward.

Parlour Tour Committee Report:

Beth Bennett asked for a short follow-up discussion of the Parlour Tour Committee’s appearance at the May 20 SRG Board Meeting. She noted Frank Reynolds’ posting on NextDoor Soulard in which he criticized Parlour Tour Committee Chairman Jeanne Kirby for a comment to the SRG Board. Kirby had said that it was unfortunate that some homeowners’ feelings were hurt but that the 2014 event was a huge financial success. Bennett said that the Parlour Tour Committee had alienated some people.

Steve Parker said that John Wallace had seemed sincere when he told the SRG Board that he regretted the way some communications were handled and had apologized to the homeowners who were upset. Bennett and Luann Denten said that the Parlour Tour Committee leadership’s version of events didn’t match reality.

Denten said that Frank Reynolds wasn’t the only person upset with the Parlour Tour Committee. She said three sets of homes had been recruited by SRG Board members after the Parlour Tour Committee said more homes were needed, only to reverse that later.

Nancy Kelly said that Neal Thompson of the Parlour Tour Committee had told her that he too felt bad about hurting the feelings of some homeowners. Kelly suggested the SRG have a liaison on the Parlour Tour Committee.

Mike Ziemann agreed to serve as the SRG Board liaison. He said Jeanne Kirby is the Parlour Tour Committee contact for the SRG.

There was mention that St. Louis Tours might be interested in including a house in Soulard on its holiday tour.

Mardi Gras Inc., Mardi Gras Foundation, Safety Cameras:

Gary Toribio said that the Mardi Gras Inc. Board knows nothing about how the Mardi Gras Foundation Board operates.

Mike Ziemann noted that with Anheuser-Busch InBev’s donation of funds to pay for the new entry markers, the grant from MGF to pay for that project might be taken back. It’s possible the money could go back into the pool for next year, he said. “For all the neighborhood goes through with Mardi Gras, we struggle to get a dime back.”

Jackie Parker suggested that either Jay Dinkelmann or Lisa Otke (Soulard residents on the MGF Board) come to the next SRG Board Meeting.

The SRG will submit a grant to MGF asking that the money appropriated for the entry marker project instead be used for security cameras in the neighborhood. Toribio said he thought the grant application deadline is mid-July.

As part of the MGF grant application, Sean Cochran suggested that the SRG could offer to allocate funds for cameras to partially match any funds granted by MGF. He said the SRG could also open a bank account with funds held in reserve to pay for a portion of the recurring maintenance and operation costs of the cameras.

Bill Clendenin said representatives of the SBA, SRG and Soulard Special Business District (SSBD) had met May 26 to discuss joint efforts to develop the security camera system. It’s expected that the SBA and SRG will be the primary applicants for the MGF grant. Clendenin circulated a draft resolution for the grant application.  He said another meeting will be held June 23.

Clendenin noted that the cost of cameras involves a capital expense for their purchase and installation, and a recurring cost for maintaining and operating them.

He said those at the camera meeting had expressed enthusiasm about the camera project in general and about applying for the MGF funds.  He said SBA President Dan Shields is supportive of the camera project.

Nancy Kelly suggested the grant application be accompanied by letters of support from the Aldermen, the Police Department, the Public Safety Office, the Gene Slay’s Boys’ Club, and others.

Kelly urged Mike Ziemann to meet regularly, perhaps quarterly, with leaders of SBA and SBD. Ziemann said it was a good idea.

Sean Cochran said the broader mystery of how MGF money is allocated is a conversation the SRG Board seems to have every year. Gary Toribio said the only money that MGF has to distribute is half the proceeds from the Mayor’s Ball during Mardi Gras. All other funds from Mardi Gras go into paying for MGI operations, including the event itself.

Ziemann said the relationship between SRG and MGI is one in which “the tail is wagging the dog.” He said SRG needs to hold MGI more accountable. With a budget of about $1.2 million, MGI provides only a few thousand dollars to the SRG, including sponsoring a stop on the Parlour Tour, beer booths at events and tickets to the Mayor’s Ball.

A suggestion was made that Tim Lorson and/or Mack Bradley be invited to a meeting of the SRG Board.

Mike Ziemann said that the conservation was becoming disjointed, bouncing back and forth between MGI, MGF and the cameras. He asked that we move on to the cameras proposal.

Bill Clendenin said that some residents are likely to be concerned that the cameras are an invasion of privacy and that effort will be made to limit the impact on the privacy of residents, both in terms of locating the cameras and limiting who can access video footage.

He said the Commissioners of the SSBD are generally supportive. Some Commissioners have expressed that they do not want the costs of the camera system to significantly impact private security patrols.  

Clendenin said there has been discussion on the camera locations, which would be at key neighborhood access points and hot spots. 

State Sen. Jamilah Nasheed:

Mike Ziemann said that 5th District State Sen. Jamilah Nasheed has asked to address the SRG General membership so that she can give an update on her work on behalf of the neighborhood. Board members cited the SRG’s policy of not allowing meetings to become a forum for politicians. (Candidate forums usually are held after the SRG General Membership Meeting ends.) Others noted that Sen. Nasheed is the elected representative of our neighborhood in the State Senate.

The Board voted 7-1 to allow Sen. Nasheed to attend the July 1 SRG General Membership Meeting and to speak for no more than five minutes, with no question-and-answer session during the meeting.  If any members do have questions, Sen. Nasheed can answer them after the meeting or at the Social. Mike Ziemann will inform Sen. Nasheed that the SRG is a hyper-local organization. As such, we expect her to focus on matters dealing with our neighborhood

Adjournment:

The meeting adjourned at 11:55 a.m.

 

 

 

 

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June 2015 General Meeting Minutes

JUNE 2015 SRG GENERAL MEMBERSHIP MEETING

June 3, 2015

Location: Sts. Peter and Paul Catholic Church, 1919 S. 7th St.

Meeting started at 7:09 p.m.

Board members in attendance: Mike Ziemann, Beth Bennett , Sean Cochran, Luann Denten, Nancy Kelly, Jeremy Mehrle, Jackie Parker, Steve Parker

Board members absent: Bill Clendenin, Alicia Stellhorn

Aldermen in attendance: Jack Coatar, Ken Ortmann

Secretary’s Minutes:

Minutes from the April 2, 2015 General Meeting and April 21, 2015 and May 31, 2015 Board Meetings were approved after a correction was made on the date (Tuesday, Aug. 4) of National Night Out in the May Board Meeting minutes. 

The SRG Annual Membership Party was held May 6, 2015 at the Great Grizzly Bear, 1027 Geyer Ave. and no minutes were taken.

Mike Ziemann delayed approval of the minutes until later in the meeting so that members had an opportunity to read them. Actual approval took place after the police report ended.

Treasurer’s Report:

Treasurer’s Report was approved.

New Members

Nine new members introduced themselves.

Police report by Officer Brian Min:

Officer Min gave a crime report for both April and May since no SRG General Meeting was held May 6.

April crime included:

·        Four stolen autos

·        Four burglaries

·        Five robberies, including two purse-snatchings

·        Eight larcenies, including five car break-ins

May crime included:

·        One assault, near Soulard Market

·        Three stolen autos

·        Three burglaries

·        Four robberies. One involved a juvenile who stole a cellphone from a woman. One was an attempted carjacking, foiled when a panic alarm was pushed. One was a carjacking in which the victim was texting; the car was recovered and an arrest was made of the same suspect involved in the foiled carjacking. One was a robbery in the drive-thru at Jack in the Box, 1807 Gravois Ave.

·        Nine larcenies, including seven car break-ins. In several instances, beer was stolen.

Kathy Barkey asked Officer Min if children age 8 to 10 can legally drive golf carts. She was told no and advised to call police if she sees such activity.

Julie Price reported that she had seen graffiti at four or five places and wondered if there was any significance. Ann Chance, the city’s Special Events coordinator, said that the graffiti was “just tagging” and not a sign of gang activity. She said the graffiti markings in Price’s neighborhood were red while those closer to Soulard Market tended to be blue.

A somewhat light-hearted discussion was held about drones, the subject of several recent posts on NextDoor Soulard. Jack Coatar said that he had placed a call to the Justice Department to see whether it’s legal to operate drones in a residential neighborhood. New member Melissa Corsaut, employed by the National Park Service, said that it is illegal to fly drones in certain areas, such as near the Arch. Drones are allowed elsewhere for private use only. Mike Ziemann light-heartedly said: “If it’s you (flying the drone over a neighbor’s yard), stop it. You are being a bad neighbor.”

Minutes:

All three sets were approved at this point after the correction was made on the date of National Night Out (Tuesday Aug. 4) in the May Board Meeting minutes.

Julie Price noted that the minutes mentioned the “Good Neighbor Agreement.” She suggested it might be a good idea for businesses to sign one biannually. Jim Price asked for a copy of the agreement so that he could take it to the Soulard Business Association. Jackie Parker said he could get a copy off the SRG website. (Click here for copy of agreement.)

Old Business:

Entry Markers:

Mike Ziemann said that Anheuser-Busch InBev has donated the money to pay for the nine new entry markers. He said the company had done so as “good neighbors of Soulard” and asked for nothing in return.

Bids were awarded and fabrication has started on the markers. An example should be ready for approval in a week.

Sentencing Hearings:

Mike Ziemann said he had attended a sentencing hearing at which the defendant received a 12-year sentence. At a previous sentencing hearing, he said, the judge noted the presence of Soulard residents and said that the defendant’s crimes had an effect on their lives.

Residents were urged to attend the sentencing hearing for Anthony Swift, convicted in the mugging of the visiting sister of a Soulard resident. (Subsequently, he was sentenced to 13 years.)

Ziemann thanked Bill Clendenin and the Safety Committee for spearheading the effort to get residents to attend sentencing hearings. He said would-be criminals are learning that they should avoid Soulard.

New Business

Tap ‘N’ Run (Neighborhood impact/Volunteers still needed)

Billy Tomber said this would be the fourth year for Tap ‘N’ Run in Soulard. He said the first year was pretty much a “disaster,” with problems with communication. The SRG received about $6,000 two years ago, and $4,000 last year. This year, the communications effort is much-improved, he said, with fliers distributed in the neighborhood. About 1,600 runners have signed up. He circulated a volunteer sign-up sheet, and said that the SRG would receive an $800 bonus by bringing 50 people.

Tomber said that between 1:45 p.m. and 3 p.m. there would be three “hard closures of streets.” Paul Kjorlie noted that earlier SRG minutes had mentioned the possibility of closing just one lane. Mike Ziemann said that idea was discussed early but dismissed because it didn’t make sense to have one lane open on smaller streets.  Ziemann explained that cars wouldn’t be towed from closed streets, but that people parking on those streets wouldn’t be able to drive during the closures.

MGI Report:

Mike Ziemann appointed Jackie Parker to a three-year term as one of three SRG representatives on the MGI Board. She succeeds Michael Pastore, whose last meeting is June 4. Ziemann said that a frequent complaint about MGI is that people don’t know how it works. He asked for more information about MGI and a better flow of communication.

Pastore said that the MGI Board would be discussing the MGI budget at its June 4 meeting and hearing information from Director Tim Lorson about his proposal for a side business. He said that volunteers were still being sought for the St. Louis Uncorked event at Soldiers Memorial, 13th and Chestnut Streets, downtown June 5-6.

American Legion Post 422 Report:

The SRG Board approved $500 for the purchase of planters as part of the parking lot improvements at the Legion, 2601 S. 11th St.

Mr. Bill Wirtel said the Traveling Vietnam Wall exhibit would make its third visit to St. Louis the weekend of June 4-7, at Eternal Flame Park at Soldiers Memorial.

Judith Howard will perform during the Legion’s Happy Hour on Friday June 19 from 5 to 8 p.m.

Committee Reports:

Beautification:

$9,300 was raised at the fundraiser May 19 at Molly’s, with Molly’s owner Luke Reynolds contributing $1,900.

Richard Eaton explained the Weed Warriors operation to new members, saying that people can earn a Weed Warriors T-shirt by working just three times. Weed Warriors will be in Pontiac Square Park from 9 a.m. to noon on June 20.

The Art in the Garden Tour will be June 27, with nine artists and eight sets of live music. Luann Denten called it a “total sensory experience.”

Communications:

Jackie Parker thanked Beth Bennett, Linda Kurdi, Richard Eaton, Luann Denten and Margaret Schroeder for delivering the Renaissance. The deadline for the Oktoberfest edition of the Renaissance is Sept. 4.

She said that the soulard.org calendar has been updated.

Code and Zoning:

Jay Gibbs gave an update on the development at 9th and Soulard Streets. The new owners want to use plans for developing the property that had been drawn up by previous owners before the recession. It calls for four attached townhouses priced from $499,000 to $590,000.

Gibbs also said there’s a request to turn the two-family structure at 2100 S. 11th Street into a single-family unit.

Residential Promotion:

Luann Denten said she was about to place an order for flags with the SRG logo. The flags will be green with gold lettering, two-sided and measure 3-feet by 5-feet.

She said our inventory of merchandise includes tapestries, hoodies, T-shirts, hats, wine glasses. She said an online sales system is being developed.

A potluck will be held at Pontiac Square Park June 7. Bring a side dish and games to play.

The Bastille Days Celebration will begin at 5 p.m. Friday July 10 with the Gathering of the Mob at Howards, 13th and Lynch Streets. Denten said Soulard hasn’t had a complete Bastille Days celebration in many years. Residential Promotion will provide “surprises” for attendees. A guillotine will be available as a photo opportunity. Bastille en Vogue will again be at Franco on Sunday July 12.

On Saturday July 11, Liquid Gold will play at 6 p.m. as part of the Soulard Concert Series in Soulard Market Park. 

Membership:

Jill Weissgerber thanked the Great Grizzly Bear, 1027 Geyer Ave.,, for providing the venue for the SRG Annual Membership Meeting on May 6. She said the New Member Social would be 6 p.m. June 11 at the Soulard Station, 1911 S. 12th St.

SRG Night at the Gateway Grizzlies game will be Aug. 8. Tickets are $35 a person and includes shuttle rides to and from the game, a ticket to the game, beer at the ballpark and free admission to SRG’s own private after-party at the OZ nightclub prior to its regular nightly opening.

Safety:

Scott Plackemeier echoed Mike Ziemann’s earlier comments about the importance of residents attending sentencing hearings. The next Safety Committee meeting is 7 p.m. June 29 at Soulard Station.  Plackemeier thanked those who participated in the April Safety Walk.

Fundraising:

Rick Dungey repeated Billy Tomber’s earlier calls for volunteers to work Tap ‘N’ Run. Mike Ziemann gave a shout-out to iTap for dedicating its April 21 Kegs for a Cause fundraiser to the SRG. $275 was raised.

Announcements:

Julie Price asked to make a few announcements on behalf of the SBA. She said that Liquid Gold would be playing at 6 p.m. as part of the Soulard Concert Series in Soulard Market Park. 

She said SBA would have a couple food tents and beer tents at Slide the City July 11-12 downtown on Market Street.

Mike Ziemann said that while the SRG traditionally doesn’t hold a General Membership meeting in July, one will be held at 7 p.m. July 1 at Sts. Peter and Paul Catholic Church.

Richard Eaton said that plants to attract monarch butterflies are being planted on two sides of Soulard Market Park, with help from volunteers from Nestle Purina and Operation Brightside.

Tonight’s Social is at the home of Eric and Leah Sutphen, 2336 Menard Street.

Adjournment:

The meeting adjourned at 8:12 p.m.

 

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May 2015 Board Meeting Minutes

SRG Board Meeting Minutes

Wednesday, May 20, 2015 at Soulard Station

Meeting started at 7:04 p.m.

Members present: Mike Ziemann, Beth Bennett, Bill Clendenin, Sean Cochran, Luann Denten, Nancy Kelly, Jackie Parker, Steve Parker, Alicia Stellhorn

Members absent: Jeremy Mehrle, Gary Toribio

Guests:

·         Parlour Tour Committee chairman Jeanne Kirby and members Leah Sutphen, Miriam Press, Jim Price, Julie Price, Billy Tomber, John Wallace

·         Beautification Committee chairman Richard Eaton

Parlour Tour Committee Presentation:

Members gave a PowerPoint presentation to explain their roles and procedures, compare the performances of recent years and share what they have learned from past tours.

SRG President Mike Ziemann asked about the timing of selecting and announcing homes for the tour. He said that this past year the tour roster was full early, then in need of homes, then too full, causing confusion on the SRG Board about the true picture. He said the SRG Board and Parlour Tour Committee need clearer lines of communication. Committee members agreed.

Luann Denten and Beth Bennett expressed concerns over the handling of two homes that were recruited for the tour.

Denten said that one household had been the first to sign up but was later told they were no longer needed. John Wallace said that the homeowners had expressed to him that they hadn’t really wanted to be on the tour. When others stepped forward, the first homeowners were told they didn’t need to be on the tour, he said. Wallace said he had apologized to the homeowners after he learned they were upset.

Beth Bennett said that she had talked another homeowner into being on the tour and that she had asked that the homeowner not be asked to withdraw but that occurred anyway. John Wallace said he apologized for that situation as well.

Mike Ziemann said that one member of the Parlour Tour Committee needs to be the person who speaks for the committee in regards to who is on the tour and who isn’t. John Wallace said that the committee president is the person who decides what homes are on the tour, and manages the list of homes that might be on future tours.

Jeanne Kirby said that once the roster of homes is set, homeowner liaisons John Wallace and Neal Thompson take over communications with homes on the tour.

Kirby said that it was unfortunate that some homeowners’ feelings were hurt but she noted that the 2014 event was a huge success.  

Jackie Parker said the deadline for the Parlour Tour Committee edition of the Renaissance is Nov. 5, and that the paper would be out before Thanksgiving, when ticket sales begin in earnest.

Beautification Committee:

Richard Eaton presented the committee’s proposed budget.

Alicia Stellhorn informed Eaton that the city Forestry Division will be talking to the Beautification Committee about the threat of emerald ash borers to trees in Soulard Market Park.

Eaton said the Beautification fundraiser on May 19 at Molly’s was a financial success, with income of $9,200 to $9,400. He said Marybeth Wallace and Molly’s owner Luke Reynolds said they would pitch in to ensure $10,000 was raised.

2016 Fiscal Year Budget:

The SRG Board reviewed proposed expense and income for the various committees. As we near the end of the 2015 Fiscal Year, more actual figures will be known and slight adjustments will be made in the proposed budget. A vote on the budget is scheduled for June 13.

Mike Ziemann said that because of the unpredictability of Mardi Gras, the Board might want to view the SRG’s booth as a small neighborhood party rather than a fundraiser. If we make money, fine, but if we don’t, it’s not a setback.

Ziemann questioned whether the budget should continue to include $100 for the purchase of food and beverages for SRG Board members during their monthly Board meeting. He said the money could be used for a wider community purpose. SRG president-elect Bill Clendenin said he objected to alcoholic beverages being purchased with the money. Sean Cochran said that when he “hosts” the meal, he purchases food with the $100 and buys any alcoholic beverages with his own money. Several Board members said they didn’t consider it extravagant to have an allowance of $100 for Board members’ dinner at a 7 p.m. meeting that lasts several hours. Several Board members come straight from work. A motion to continue spending $100 for food and beverages at the monthly Board meeting was approved 7-1.

Treasurer’s Report:  Alicia Stellhorn presented the report.

 

Old Business:

Soulard School Soiree:

The Board voted 8-0 to officially approve the donation of $500 and a free rental of Soulard Station for the Soulard School Soirée, which was held May 17 at the Boo Cat Club, 812 Union Blvd., 63108.

Membership Drive:

40 new members were recruited at the SRG Membership Social on May 6 at the Great Grizzly Bear, 1027 Geyer Ave.

The New Member Social will be at 6 p.m. June 11 at Soulard Station, 1911 S. 12th St. The social is in place of the regular monthly Membership Committee meeting. In past years, committee members brought home-prepared food, but because of the smaller size of the committee, food will be ordered this time. Members of other SRG committees are encouraged to be present to greet the new members and explain the various committee roles.

Tap ‘N’ Run:

Mike Ziemann said that having the run pass by Howards in Soulard at 2732 S. 13th St. – as some had desired – would have caused “choke points” and disrupted traffic on South 12th Street. He said the course as designed is logical. (See course map)

Jackie Parker said efforts are underway to secure picnic licenses for the beer stations. Alicia Stellhorn said that she could help in getting Forestry Division approval.

Volunteers are being sought and can sign up online.

Mike Ziemann said he had not seen any mailings to residents informing them of Tap ‘N’ Run, as race organizers had promised. (The week of May 25, 1,000 letters were subsequently distributed along the race route and to all those within the route’s footprint by Big River Race Management.)

Sentencings:

Bill Clendenin noted that community presence at the sentencing hearing of S.J. had led to him receiving an actual sentence. Clendenin thanked those who attended and encouraged people to attend a sentencing hearing June 5 involving a 2013 armed robbery.

Luann Denten thanked Clendenin for “bringing this program to the forefront and leading our community.” Mike Ziemann said Clendenin and the neighborhood residents who attended the sentencing hearing had “almost singlehandedly contributed to these guys not being on the streets.”

MGI Board Candidates:

Mike Ziemann encouraged SRG Board members to talk to candidates Sean Cochran and Jackie Parker and to then share their input with him. Ziemann said he would also be talking to the two candidates and would use then Board’s input before appointing one to the MGI Board.

Board Retreat:

The Board retreat will be held from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. June 13, with the first hour devoted to the 2016 FY Budget. The retreat location is to be determined.

Flags:

Luann Denten said a first order of Soulard flags would have to be for at least 25. She’ll get an image of one of the 3-foot-by-5-foot double-sided flags with Mardi Gras colors.

Mardi Gras Foundation Grant/Video Cameras/Proposals

Since Anheuser-Busch InBev has said it will pay for the installation of the entry markers, Alicia Stellhorn will approach the Mardi Gras Foundation to see if it will reallocate the money it had set aside for the entry marker project.

Bill Clendenin said that, subject to approval, he will become a commissioner on the Soulard Special Business District. That group will work with the Soulard Business Association and SRG to come up with a plan for cameras. Clendenin said that one or two other people from the SRG should be on the working group. A meeting will be held Tuesday, May 26, at Molly’s.

The application process has not yet begun for the next round of MGF grants. Nancy Kelly will ask the Gene Slay’s Boys’ Club of St. Louis to write a letter of support of our MGF application, since the Boys’ Club was a successful recipient last year.

New Business

Website Updates:

Mike Ziemann noted that information on the website calendar is not always current. (The Soulard.org website calendar has subsequently been updated by Jackie Parker beginning with June 2015 click here.)

STL Youth Jobs Partnership:

Ziemann circulated a letter from Rebecca Ritter of the SLATE Missouri Career Center outlining a program in which the city and state pay wages for young adults ages 16 to 24 to work summer jobs. Board members did not see an immediate fit with SRG needs.

Tools:

Mike Ziemann noted that Officer Joseph Calabro recently had a posting on NextDoor seeking the donation of tools. Luann Denten said that the American Legion’s request for donated flower pots for its parking lot had no results. The SRG Board voted unanimously to donate $500 so that the Legion can purchase pots.

 

1216 Sidney Street Zoning Hearing:

Mike Ziemann informed the Board that the CC Abundant Life Church at 1216 Sidney St. had successfully appealed a city zoning ruling and was given permission to have a gravel parking lot for five years rather than a paved lot. Steve Parker said that he and Jackie live next door to the church, and that considerable landscaping and maintenance improvements were made immediately after the congregation’s recent purchase of the building.

Board Reports:

Residential Promotion:

The Soulard Garden Tour is being sponsored by St. Louis Homes Magazine.

The second annual Bastille en Vogue fashion show begins at 6 p.m. Sunday July 12 at Franco, 1535 S. 8th St. Tickets are $25 per person and may be purchased at Eventbrite.com.

Membership:

The New Member Social will be held at 6 p.m. Thursday, June 11, at Soulard Station, 1911 S. 12th St. Forty new members joined May 6 at the SRG Membership Social at the Great Grizzly Bear.

SRG Night at the Gateway Grizzlies Game is Saturday, Aug. 8. Tickets are $35 a person and includes shuttle ride to and from game, ticket to game, beer at the ballpark and free admission to SRG’s own private after-party at the OZ nightclub prior to its regular nightly opening.

Planning:

Plans call for four attached townhouses to be erected on the empty lot at South 9th Street and Soulard Street. The units are to have three to five bedrooms and start at $499,999.

The old, marble-faced Clark Rowley house at South 12th  and Lami streets has been sold.

Construction on the Lafayette School site apartment project is scheduled to begin in mid-July. Plans now show the parking entrance will be off Ann Avenue. See plans

Soulard Station:

The Board expressed its strong support for Vicki Morris and her performance in running the station.  

Communications Committee:

The Renaissance should be out for delivery on Friday May 22. (The Renaissance has subsequently been delivered to area businesses.)

Safety:

National Night Out is Tuesday Aug. 4. A case of beer will be donated for blocks holding National Night Out parties. In past years, four or five blocks held parties. Last year, it was down to one or two.

New Business:

The opening of Henry’s restaurant and bar, 825 Geyer Ave., has revived the idea of having new business sign a "good neighbor agreement." Board members discussed the history of the agreement and the general idea of using it again. Click here to see good neighbor agreement

Luann Denten said the SBA and MGI boards had met and are discussing concerns about the spinoff business being run by Tim Lorson and Brian Wahby. They want to ensure there are no conflicts of interest in that work and what is done on behalf of MGI.  Lorson is to respond to the concerns at the next MGI meeting.

Meeting adjourned at 10:50 p.m.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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