A Community Garden – an idea that is taking root
On Oct 19th, a small group of Heron Parkers met to discuss the possibility of organizing a community garden right here in our neighbourhood. We reviewed some of the steps involved in figuring out what makes a good garden site, securing permission to use the land, getting financial support, etc. We also talked about possible garden sites, and identified a few parcels of vacant land within the neighbourhood that were worth investigating. We then did a walkabout of the potential garden sites to get a sense of which one might best suit our needs. The results will be discussed at our next meeting on Wednesday Nov 18th at 7PM. Also at that meeting, the staff coordinator from the Community Garden Network will ‘show us the ropes’, and explain how to apply for funding for start-up costs.
If you are interested in helping launch a community garden, please contact Connie for more information: connie.berry AT sympatico.ca
HPCA Response to Lansdowne Live Proposal
The current proposal of Lansdowne Live presents Ottawa citizens and taxpayers with one vision, and only one vision, to develop a prime and central piece of City property, Lansdowne Park. The Heron Park Community Association has serious concerns about both the process used in choosing this proposal, and about the merits of the proposal itself.
Regarding the process, we object to the abandonment of a competitive process. Concern over such disregard for standard professional purchasing practices has already been voiced by many others; suffice it to say that we echo and share those concerns.
Regarding the merits of the Lansdowne Live proposal, our concerns include the following:
- Redevelopment of the stadium for a new football franchise is a questionable decision given that many major cities are unable to support a football team and Ottawa has a history of failure on this front twice already.
- Furthermore, the scope of the project, particularly the retail aspects, would burden congested Bank Street and surrounding roads with greater traffic congestion and rely on public transit on the same roads to transport large numbers to/from the complex. The City would be responsible for about $130 million in costs but not see any returns on their investment until the private developers had recouped their investment with an 8% interest rate.
- Other than some increased densification, the concept of Lansdowne Live appears contrary to the City’s Smart Growth plan. From an environmental viewpoint, the proposal adds only limited green space (not to be confused with “green areas”) and would operate under a “municipal services corporation” that could lease the land for up to 70 years. This is a long time to live with a mistake and a long time to pay for it.
Notwithstanding the design, function, traffic, retail issues, the City needs to make every effort to demonstrate to its citizens that this is a fiscally sound proposal and one that will benefit the City and its residents for many years to come. We are not persuaded that this is the case.
On this basis, the Heron Park Community Association actively opposes the Lansdowne Live proposal.
October 2009 HPCA Meeting Minutes
HPCA Monthly Meeting MINUTES – DRAFT
October 5, 2009
Heron Park CAC
Present: Kelly Thomas, Rosella Mac Neil, Eileen McGurrin (minutes), Connie Berry, Derek Gour, Colin MacLean, Maritala Robinson, Judy Mordy, Gloria Williams, Rosella Mac Neil
Regrets: Angie Kelm, Clive Doucet, Leo Derome, James McLaren, Hijal de Sarkar, Donna Silver
- Opening remarks (President, Kelly Thomas) and approval of September minutes (soft copies sent to Directors earlier in September)
Eileen reviewed September minutes “Action” items. Some still outstanding but soon to be addressed. Motion for approval of minutes (as is): Rosella Second: Derek
Approved: All
2. AGM Planning and Board positions for coming year (Kelly Thomas and all)
AGM will take place on Monday, November 16th at Billingswood Manor. Executive positions are two year. Since this is the “odd” year, the Executive positions are not up for re-election if current members stay on in their positions. Directors are one year only and are therefore to renew their commitment and stand for re-election. New Directors could also be elected.
New HPCA Constitution to be approved at AGM. Should be noted in the Herald (with link to website page) and also that this is the “in-between year”. (Executive positions are not renewed.) Angie also to send notice for AGM with link to our website. (Determined not to note the new Constitution in the Herald until it was finalized, circulated and voted in by the Directors, prior to the AGM. A notice will be circulated on the Broadcast email list once that has been done.)
It was suggested that perhaps a new communications link be added to our list (HPCAcommunications.ca) to allow folks to email responses to broadcast emails that wouldn’t be sent to Angie’s home email (the sender). Perhaps one also for HPCARink.ca to go to Colin. Derek could do this.
Need someone to check CAC phone messages. May do so using remote access password. Eileen to do so now until rink season – ACTION
Colin will handle it during rink season. – ACTION
In discussing HPCA Board roles and renewal of commitment to HPCA activities, Eileen stated that she would like to hand off the Advertising duties (for the Herald) to someone else. As no one is currently ready, willing or able to take them on she agreed to continue in the role in the interest of providing some revenue and at least covering the printing costs of the Herald. However, she made clear that she would no longer actively canvass for new advertisers and that several would not be renewing their ads as of the Dec. issue, therefore ad revenues would decrease. The assistance of Directors in promoting ads to the businesses they favour might be the best means of promoting Herald advertising to new area clients.
Maritala noted that Stuart (neighbour beside Angie) might be interested in advertising and might be a great addition to the HPCA team.
ACTION – Eileen to follow up.
Derek suggested including a “Box ad” to promote advertising – “This space for sale” ACTION - Eileen to send text to Derek.
Maritala said she would also place an ad.
In an aside, Maritala noted Volvo cars racing around the neighbourhood, particularly close to kids’ school bus stops. She is sure they originate from the Volvo dealership.
Colin will let Community police know about Maritala’s concerns. (ACTION)
3. Herald update (Derek)
Derek indicated that only a few articles were still outstanding but that most were in and he would complete the paper within a few days.
Maritala promoting two fundraisers for Play Structure: Christmas Bazaar (Nov 14) and Bottle Drive (date changed to Oct. 17).
Flyers to be distributed (hopefully) with the Herald deliveries prior to Oct. 17th. Sandwich boards will be set out in prominent locations 2 or 3 days before. Idea to start paying kids small amount of $ for flyer distribution? Idea to be discussed further.
Rink volunteers article? ACTION – Colin to provide notice
Tree Planting article – ACTION - Rosella
Paper delivery – Judy agreed to have Bottle Drive flyers handed out with papers to promote HPCA events (date of paper delivery permitting). Rosella agreed to take 600 papers and distribute to delivery people on South side. Ruth takes the other 200.
4. Treasurer’s Report (Rosella)
Colin has been reimbursed for expenses for WNP (half the funds from City have been used) but some funds are still outstanding (reimbursement upon receipts).
The majority of tree planters from the Oct. 3 tree planting at Sawmill Creek were treated at O’Brien’s as a thank you from HPCA. (Cost $145)
Johanne is still getting bank statements; this should be changed.
Need financial reports from Treasurer Rosella at AGM including Carnival finances, play structure account, positive news reinforces positive contributions from the community.
(Maritala will bring flyers/posters to promote Play Structure at AGM.)
5. Lansdowne Live and HPCA response (Eileen and all)
Eileen drafted an HPCA position and response to the Lansdowne Live proposal listing some of the outstanding issues yet to be resolved, namely: traffic and transit issues to and from the site, and the inordinate amount of new commercial space being added. Connie added that the sole source aspect of the proposal is unfair and undemocratic. There was some discussion on fine tuning the paper however a vote was passed as follows:
Is anyone here present in favour of Lansdowne Live as it currently stands? None
Opposition to Lansdowne Live as it currently stands? All
ACTION – Eileen to email draft to all. Connie to send edits. We’ll post a notice in Herald on same page as City Beat indicating we’re opposed to LL (to check our detailed position on website.) ACTION – due to timelines and conflicting priorities the draft was not circulated or edited in time to appear in Herald. It will be available at the AGM and posted on the website.
6. Rink Planning (Colin)
Leo indicated he would commit to same as last year.
Colin will be actively seeking volunteers as last year.
ACTION: Rachelle to get rink contract to Eileen and follow up on insurance.
ACTION: Eileen to ask Johanne about storing snowblower in shed.
(This was done and Johanne will be happy to have it on site as per her agreement and understanding with Leo last year.)
Colin sent out email to Kelly and Rosella regarding rink planning for 2010.
7. Neighbourhood Watch (Colin)
Raphael is working Heron Park South. He can’t attend North mtg on Oct. 16. Colin will let Raphael handle other side. Suggested we subdivide North into smaller portions to make it more manageable.
Locations to be sorted out for NW signage. Some concern about not having them on major thoroughfares (visibility).
8. Play Structure Fundraising Update (Maritala)
Including $7,500 from City we have $10,000 amount. So we’ve raised $2,500 in this community. àACTION: Eileen needs to change the text in Herald. (Post-meeting it was determined that the amount of funds raised in community is significantly higher. This will be presented at the AGM in November.)
$400 amount from Convergys who held a car wash fundraiser (at Heron Gate). They’re holding the funds until we get official City receipt (awaiting some paperwork from Maritala).
More fundraiser ideas: Cdn Tire – another raffle? Maritala thinks a snowblower would be a timely item to raffle …
Maritala has $65 petty cash to cover small expenses: posters, flyers to promote upcoming fundraising activities.
Maritala determined that the play group will start Oct. 16th. Issues to be resolved with the caregivers and parents pertaining to cleaning/sanitizing children’s toys, particularly in light of H1N1 concerns.
9. Other Business
HPCA November meeting will be amalgamated into the November AGM. This to be noted in the October issue of the Herald.
Next issue Herald – Dec. 4th deadline for submissions to ensure pre-Christmas delivery.
Carnival date? The end of January (Jan. 30th) worked well last year. Bring this item forward at our Dec. meeting. (ACTION – Eileen)
The meeting adjourned at 8:45 p.m.
September 2009 HPCA Meeting Minutes
MINUTES
HPCA Monthly Meeting
September 14, 2009
Heron Park CAC
Present: Kelly Thomas, Rosella
Mac Neil, Eileen McGurrin (minutes), Connie Berry, Derek Gour,
Colin MacLean, Donna Silver
Regrets: Angie Kelm, Clive Doucet,
Maritala Robinson, Leo Derome, James McLaren, Hijal de Sarkar
- Opening remarks (President,
Kelly Thomas) and Approval of June Minutes (a few hard copies available
– soft copies sent to Directors in June)
Motion for approval of minutes: Derek
Second: Rosella
Approved: All
- Play Structure Update (Maritala
sent notes ahead of meeting as she couldn’t attend).
Maritala has not been to the bank and
is unsure of exact balance. (Rosella
said at least $3,450 but transfer from main account pending. Rosella
will email amount post-meeting.)
Urgent item to be done. Maritala
needs to send a letter to the City as they have approved a grant of
up to $7,500, pending a formal written request. Donna added that
it means matching funds also so we need to have equal amount in account.
Advise Maritala, although she is no doubt aware of this condition.
Next fundraiser: planning another
bottle drive for the last Saturday of September….(and a tulip bulb
sale following that, added Rosella). Colin suggested another bottle
drive after Thanksgiving also as the final one of the season.
The July bottle drive collected over $600.00 in 3 hours of pouring rain!
Maritala extends her thanks to those who were not afraid of a little
water for that event and overall to Peter and his daughter Kelly as
well as Rosella and Colin and the other involved families for the extra
support.
Play Group Update
Maritala sent an article to Derek to
include in the Herald regarding the dates for Play Group: Fridays starting
October 16th. Asked that all interested contact her by phone or
email. Maritala also raised concerns about the question of H1N1
and the risks of spread of the virus at the Play Group. She asks HPCA
to discuss the question and get back to her with a vote or recommendations.
Donna suggested adding a caveat to
dates noting that Play Group may take a hiatus if required based on
Ottawa flu outbreaks and following recommendations from the city’s
Public Health Dept. regarding H1N1 and cancellation/postponement of
community events/gatherings.
- City of Ottawa Tree Program
– call for volunteers (Kelly)
Kelly said we are receiving 150 trees
as part of the Sawmill Creek local rehabilitation project in coordination
with the University of Ottawa, City of Ottawa, and HPCA. Need
volunteers (from HPCA and/or cmnty members). Will be held October
3 from 9 a.m. onwards. Planting will be on a steep slope. Ropes
will be provided as the terrain is quite steep and muddy. Lunch will
be provided to all volunteers afterwards.
Broadcast email to go out also to rally
the cmnty.
In an aside, Colin spoke about the
city workers preparing stream bed for barbs. They have a rope
to help going down. They are also removing garbage of stream
bed (and beaver dam too) that was too big and/or heavy for volunteers
during litter clean up in the Spring.
- Heron Park Herald &
Advertising – September issue (Derek/Eileen)
Kelly thanked Derek for agreeing to
work on Herald (and work on website too). Volunteer spoke with
Kelly about help editing Herald. He didn’t attend mtg but Kelly
will contact him to determine interest. Derek confirmed that he’s
doing layout only and is not responsible for chasing articles, etc.
Kelly concurred. Rosella will help with editing still. Eileen
also.
Eileen provided draft list of ad/ad
space to Derek.
Discussion about deadlines and circulating
new materials/articles to Kelly, Eileen and Rosella for review/editorial
decisions prior to Derek beginning the layout.
Colin suggested that we post a notice
in Herald that HPCA website will endeavour to follow update/ current
guidelines of City of Ottawa/ Public Health regarding H1N1. Derek will
add this to the content.
- Neighbourhood Watch (Rosella/
Colin)
Development in NW in summer.
Colin met with Raphael Ready (Chair of NW South) 613-521-3333.
Thought we’d want to break NW into Heron Park North and South sides.
He will help facilitate South side. Checking for signage locations.
Probably not on major roads. Raphael may come through with signs
for us.
WNP – (Colin,
I may have missed something here as I was still catching up with notes
above during meeting. Let me know)
Despite “summer lull” the WNP still a good gathering except August
when John and Colin away. Colin needs to ramp up promo to increase
numbers this Fall. Purchased a net for Badminton/volleyball combo.
Constable Walter Duhme is our new neighbourhood
liaison -cmnty police. duhmew@ottawapolice.ca
Apolydor Annual Street Party this Saturday
- Sept 19th. Colin provided notice to folks. Encouraged
board members to attend and to promote membership, NW, involvement
in HP cmnty. Donna said it’s not that difficult to get City
approval for block party and they provide barriers, etc.
Colin wants letter on HPCA letterhead
to promote Block Party and get donations.
- Clive’s Report (
Donna Silver)
Clive’s mother passed away Saturday.
Funeral Wednesday.
Demolition of house on Clementine (sent
info to Colin and Kelly) done because it was extremely vandalized after
it was vacated by tenants. Fast tracked through City Hall to get
it taken down. House was across from the grocery store.
Trees torn down on empty lot on Clementine
but may be promising as it may mean townhouse project will go fwd sometime
soon.
McGuinty Practice on Rockingham is
an improvement for neighbourhood.
Asked about strangling dogvine weed
along Sawmill Creek.
Housing proposal – social housing for
seniors – where Brown’s Cleaners and gas station was before.
Billings Bridge (the bridge not the
shopping centre) still looking at feedback and proposals. Very prelim.
stage but Donna
would like us to look at Ottawa South proposal and come up with HPCA
support or our own viewpoint.
Lansdowne Live – Check Clive’s website
for alternative proposal and for updates on what’s been happening
on this front at the City Council meetings.
Meeting this Thursday at Glebe Cmnty
Ctr to stop the Lansdowne Live Sole Sourcing project. Donna to
send email notice to us to send out broadcast email notice. Clive’s
website has all details too.
Trying to get from City Staff – top
10 questions answered including where is the proof that Live Lansdowne
has a deadline – what is it? been saying this for a year that
it’s a time sensitive proposal but where is the agenda?
Data Centre Road sidewalk will happen
once feds give us promised money. Construction is slated for spring
2010.
No updates on bus route 112 going to
Data Centre road.
- Finance Update (Rosella)
Action: Rosella to
get main account money (owed) to be transferred to Play Structure Fund.
Balances on both accounts for next meeting.
Action: Colin noted
he needs to see Rosella about WNP finances. Kelly asked if
Rosella and Colin can meet on the WNP finances and have preliminary
report for October meeting. They agreed to meet on 28th.
- Other
Garbage at CAC – inside and outside
AGM in November – selected date Monday,
November 16th.
Action: Rosella will
call Billings Lodge to book space within week (to meet Herald
deadline)
Broadcast email to be sent also.
Eileen will draft note once location is confirmed. Should check
that Clive can attend also.
Herald notice also.
Expansion of Billings Lodge (into parking
area) is on the radar.
Action: Rachelle
Bertrand at City to be advised by Colin about broken benches, and garbage
cans needed at Heron Park.
Indoor garbage – New policy.
For groups or individuals using the CAC they need to be responsible
for their garbage. Either take it home or make arrangements
to come Tues. and put it out themselves. Becomes an issue in January
when rink opens but we’ll handle it at that time in the interim….
To advise Gabriel (card players)
and Maritala (play group) of above. (Maritala
will be updated via these Minutes 
Can someone else speak with Gabriel?)
- Adjournment
The meeting adjourned at 8:25 pm.
Crime Prevention Week (Nov 1-7)
Crime Prevention Week is celebrated provincially in November across Ontario. Declared by the province in partnership with the Ontario Association of Chiefs of Police, Crime Prevention Week traditionally takes place during the first full week of November. This year, November 1–7 has been designated Crime Prevention Week in Ontario.
This year’s theme is “Prevention Pays – Get Involved. It’s your Community. It’s Your Future”. This is very fitting given that the Let’s Chat About 2012 Coffee Shops are another way for community members to contribute to the future of policing and the safety of our neighbourhoods!
Plant Your Own Tree
Trees for Tomorrow Distribution
Get it, plant it, grow it.
Register today!
Take part in planting 100,000 trees in the City of Ottawa by 2010 through the Trees, Reforestation and Environmental Enhancement (TREE) Program. Ottawa residents are eligible to register for a tree to plant on their property and have it delivered it right to your door at no charge.
We are now accepting registrations for the spring 2010 TREE delivery.
New!
To celebrate the final year of the TREE program, residents who have previously received a tree through the Trees for Tomorrow initiative will now be eligible to receive a second tree! One potted tree per year will be delivered to Ottawa residents on a first-come, first serve basis while quantities last.
Registration
Trees will be available for delivery in the Spring (May/June) and Fall (September/October); the number of trees provided each season will be based on availability. Once each season’s available trees are reserved, registrations will be held for the next available month. The online registration form indicates when your tree will be delivered. There is no fee for delivery. Please note that pick up option is no longer available.
Following registration, you will be sent a delivery notification letter in the mail in the month prior to your delivery. This letter will indicate the approximate delivery week.
A potted tree requires care following delivery. If you will not be home during the delivery period, a neighbour or friend will be required to water the tree until your return.
Trees will not be left at a vacant lot, on the sidewalk or in locations that may impede circulation or pose a hazard to the public. It is at the discretion of the delivery person to leave the tree; if for any reason, the tree cannot be delivered, a delivery notification will be left or you may be contacted to make alternate arrangements.
Types of Trees Available
A variety of species and sizes of trees will be provided based on availability from our suppliers. Trees will be in pots and will arrive with planting instructions, a rodent guard, and a small bag of compost and mulch. It is the responsibility of the recipient to obtain underground utility locates prior to planting the tree.
To receive a tree to plant on your property, register online or call 3-1-1.
Fall 2009 President’s Report
President’s Report
Fall 2009
I hope all Heron Park residents and their families had a restful summer break. As we begin Fall, members of HPCA are diligently continuing their activities and we hope to once again meet new and interested people who would like to participate in the events in and around our community.
Over the summer months, our Play Structure Committee, led by Committee Co-Chair Maritala Robinson, successfully gathered additional support and a mountain of donations for a new play structure in Heron Park. Through successful bottle drives, picnics, a garage sale, a street party, and a raffle at Canadian Tire for a new barbeque, we are that much closer to our goal, although we still have a lot to accomplish in the coming year. A note of thanks goes out to the Canadian Tire store at Heron and Bank streets for their donation of a new barbeque. In addition, many thanks to all those residents who willingly bought numerous tickets in support of this worthwhile endeavour and to those who took time out of their summer vacations to spend many days selling raffle tickets in front of the Canadian Tire store.
As we move into cooler weather, I bring to your attention the HPCA Annual General Meeting , scheduled for Monday, November 16th at 7:00 p.m. at the Billingswood Manor at the corner of Ohio and Bank Streets. I encourage those in Heron Park who would like to get involved to come out and see what we have accomplished over the past year and to apply for upcoming positions on our board. We understand your time is limited and want to stress this is not a large commitment with one HPCA meeting a month and participation in activities that are of interest to you whenever you are available. We’d also appreciate hearing from Heron Park residents who can lend a hand occasionally at community events and activities.
Examples of our activities include helping to organize a Christmas Craft Sale, participating in our annual winter carnival, joining as a block captain as part of Neighbourhood Watch, writing articles for the Heron Park Herald, tree planting, gardening, park cleanups, helping out at a the youth Wednesday Night Program … and much more!
As always, please refer to our website for the latest information as to what is going on in our neighbourhood at www.heronpark.ca. And, please send an email to President@heronpark.ca should you have any questions or concerns.
Kelly Thomas
HPCA President
June 2009 HPCA Meeting Minutes
HPCA Monthly Meeting
June 1, 2009
Heron Park CAC
Present: Kelly Thomas, Rosella Mac Neil, Eileen McGurrin (minutes), James McLaren, Connie Berry, Leo Derome, Colin MacLean, Clive Doucet, Laura Bonnett, Ruth, Donna Silver, Maritala Robinson
Regrets: Johanne Berube, Angie Kelm, Hijal de Sarkar
1. Opening remarks (President Kelly Thomas), Approval of minutes
A backlog of HPCA Meeting Minutes were approved (Feb., March, April and May)
Motion:Rosella
Second: Colin
Approved: All
Treasurer’s report: HPCA Finances and Program funds(Treasurer, Rosella Mac Neil) /
3. HPCA Revenues and Program Funding (HPCA Directors)
Rosella circulated a few hard copies of Interim Financial Report (see attachment – soft copy fwded to Eileen post-meeting) and outlined regular expenses (rink, Herald printing, insurance, domain name registration) , extraordinary expenses (unusual year, improvements, snowblower), and revenues.
A few questions:
Ice rink maintenance: Leo’s fees quite low for his hours Colin noted.
Eileen asked about Herald revenues: low-balled due to future uncertainty for upcoming issues (however costs were still estimated at same value and should have be reduced accordingly also).
WNP account: items to be resolved still between Rosella, Colin and Kelly. Therefore this is not outlined in detail in report.
Playground fundraising revenue amount is not in the report either, however the Garage Sale revenues are (but not dispersed between different programs)
Rosella also outlined the options for different bank accounts to allow for the tracking of various programs. (See addendum attached). Maritala would find this helpful (as her program would not need to pay banking fees based on balance amount). Colin stated that a separate account would not benefit WNP as the fees would be problematic once City funding for WNP is depleted.
James and Colin both recommended that each program have its own statement of expenses and revenues and Colin added that we should have standardized budget line items. As HPCA has expanded its scope with new projects and programs, the finances have become more complicated and require more detailed monitoring. Donna added that the City will expect very detailed financial records for the funds provided the WNP based on the agreement signed by HPCA.
Rosella noted a second set of eyes reviewing HPCA finances (a kind of informal audit) would be helpful once or twice a year. Colin suggested a Finance Committee could serve this purpose and could also assist in establishing new guidelines or formats for monitoring HPCA revenues and expenses. (This was not fully resolved, nor was any “Action” suggested to further this proposal.)
Maritala offered that once the play structure if fully funded that the new account could serve as a stream for future special fundraising projects in the community.
Those present agreed that we should establish new account under the HPCA umbrella at TD Bank for specific program (2 signatories required) that would serve specifically for the Play Structure Fund at this time.
Motion: Maritala
Second: Leo
All in agreement.
ACTION: Maritala and Leo would have to accompany either Rosella or Kelly. Maritala will follow up to establish time to do this.
Maritala summarized Garage Sale revenue outcome and briefly related some of the misunderstandings over the division of revenues. Play Structure Fundraising Ctee met and determined that any “questioned” funds be used towards promotional vehicle (re-usable sandwich boards) to benefit both HPCA and specific programs.
Colin asked about colours but no one objected to the suggestion that Colin determine best colours independently.
Change in Board membership/ Vacancies (HPCA Directors)
Kelly noted that after 3 years, Johanne is doing her last edition as layout editor of the Herald (June ’09 issue) and is withdrawing as a Director also. Kelly had mentioned that Derek was approached but has not responded to date.
Kelly knows of someone who could do it but doesn’t live in the community (wouldn’t charge). Donna knows someone who could do it but would charge for it (has a team). Mary Ann Thompson is the person (does OSCA) and has an ad person who gets a commission (25%). Rosella suggested getting an estimate from this person as well as following up with Derek.
Connie has hesitation about a student regarding continuity… thought it would be good to have a cmnty person to coordinate/editor.
Action: Kelly will follow up with Derek. (Mid-June addendum: According to Johanne, Derek has agreed to take on the role of layout editor for Sept. ’09 and possibly beyond.)
Action: Eileen to look into a gift certificate for Johanne as appreciation. Colin recommended a $50 amount and all agreed.
Eileen noted her keen desire to hand off the advertising duties but will commit to doing another issue (early Fall) if Derek agrees.
Play Structure Fundraising Ctee – Events (Maritala/Leo)
Many events planned over the coming weeks and early summer weeks. Difficulty getting volunteers. Kelly commiserated but noted that the HPCA team is already stretched pretty thin. Leo noted that the Canadian Tire fundraising (BBQ Raffle) event evolved before they had time to determine volunteer availability.
Peter Fourney is on the Play Structure Fundraising Ctee and has agreed to work with Maritala, ensuring that, as the Co-Chair, Maritala is brought on board before additional fund raising event commitments are undertaken.
Maritala reminded the Board that the next event: the Family BBQ picnic is Friday, June 12 (if weather is good). Colin might do BBQ’ing. Leo getting city equipment for games. They will raffle tickets for the Cdn Tire BBQ.
HP Herald Report: deadlines, articles for next issue. (Kelly)
Kelly reminded folks to get their articles asap /now to Johanne.
Councillor Doucet’s Report (Clive Doucet)
Deferred to later in the meeting as Clive arrived later.
Environment Ctee Update (Connie/Donna)
Connie sent Derek a Press Release on the Sawmill Creek Cleanup for the HPCA website. Donna felt it looked great. Connie suggested posting a notice on a sandwich board for June 12th Family Picnic. Areas requiring most cleanup (here and behind South Keys Plaza) are noted on the website.
Action:Colin said he would post info on sandwich board if Connie got it to him in time.
Action: Donna said to get measurements of sandwich boards to her and she can note it for posters for future events. (Colin forwarded dimensions of boards to Eileen for future reference, post-meeting). Colin noted that signage regarding the installation of stream barbs was quickly destroyed..
Donna added that there has been some damage to trees – natural damage/erosion – and that City staff will remove dead trees. She would like the HPCA cmnty to apply for 4 trees to plant to replace dead ones. (Action: who/what/how and when not determined on this item during the meeting.)
Local resident Laura Bonnett had asked about this before – along the path from Brookfield leading to Bank St. – stuff dumped there has not removed yet. Whose land is it? Paved path belongs to city. Between fences (Brookfield and Bank) is city property. Tires dumped there, garbage, etc. Donna said to call 311 and get reference # for the request to clean it up so we can track follow up later if needed.
Traffic Ctee Update – no parking signs at entrance to Sawmill Private (corner of Brookfield); Status of changing bus route 112 (James McLaren)
James sent email about Route 112 survey. Bruce recommended 112 just continue down Heron to Data Centre Road (nothing else from Bank and Heron to Billings via Heron). Majority of respondents said yes to extending route and to adding full sidewalk along Data Centre Road. There’s a link on HP website to review this item in greater detail.
As a sidebar and based on his survey-producing abilibites, James was asked if he’d be willing to prepare a survey regarding the HP Herald readership. He agreed to give it a try. (Is this correct? If so, Herald editing team – Kelly, Eileen and Rosella – should see it first please)
Action: Survey of Herald community paper – James to do one up and forward to Derek to post on HPCA website.
Maritala asked about the possibility of adding speed bumps on Clementine between Heron and Aldea. Cars racing along there -safety issues. James unsure of the likelihood of City doing this but said he’d look into it. He added that if everyone who is concerned sends a letter to him then he could pursue it more effectively.
“No parking” signs – Sawmill Private wants no parking at corner near their entrance, folks are parking too close.
Sidewalk along Data Centre to be extended if Stephen Harper approves city plan (federal property). However, it’s number 1 on the wish list so it seems likely to go through.
Related to safety issues, a discussion arose on whether the new HPCA mailbox (door no longer has mail slot) should be a secured/padlocked one. Some felt it would increase vandalism, others that it would dissuade it. Since members could not agree, Donna suggested that we determine our preference and get back to her on this so she can move ahead.
Action: Advise Donna of decision.
WNP Ctee – Year end report (Colin MacLean)
Article for Herald sent out by email and will be on website. Colin’s ESL students have helped out. The numbers are posted in article. WNP attendance will pick up (with weather and BBQ) for numbers. Kids well-behaved when supervised.
Constitution – deferred to September (Kelly Thomas)
Other -
Neighbourhood Watch – Colin set a date for Thursday, June 18 (7:30 – 8:30 p.m.) for a meeting and will work to get community police, block captains, members, coordinators together for information and next steps.
Social club at Bank near Walkley seeking application for cash in lieu of parking. Want to ensure the HPCA does not oppose this.
Donna circulated map of Bank/Walkley area – application is from Lebanese Men’s Social Club – don’t have required parking spaces for this kind of business/club – but they can use the parking lot adjacent so parking is not an issue. What does South Keys Landing think of it? Board in transition says Donna so they didn’t respond to her attempt to get their input.
No objection from HPCA to go fwd with this. However it was noted that if they prove to be “poor neighbours” for the folks in South Keys Landing that HPCA will be supportive of any efforts to curb or tailor their activities.
Application for trees – to be resolved later.
Meeting concluded with Clive’s Report
Military Show at Lansdowne brought a protest of 60 people.
Councillor Doucet expressed great frustration with the sole sourcing of Lansdowne Park renewal project to land procurement agents. They control the vision and direct the contract on our dime, then they get to manage it. It’s a triple-whammy. Colin says City is providing the consortium in question with deadline extensions and enabling them to circumvent the rules on this and facilitating their chance to secure the project.
City wide petition initiated by Clive and other councillors to slow /stop this (2000 signatures to date). Speakers will address ethics of this sole-sourcing procurement (Allan Cutler will speak). June 8th at City Hall. Check clivedoucet.com to see details.
Adjournment
Kelly thanked the board members and guests for attending and noted that we are adjourned for the summer. Next meeting resumes the first Monday in September.
The meeting adjourned at 8:55 p.m.
ADDENDUM
Interim Financial Report – 2009 06 01
Revenue:
$4450 Rink – City of Ottawa (no increase since 2006)
$ 515 Revenue events & programs (festivals, plant exchange)
$ 275 Memberships (2008-09)
$2200 Ads in HP Herald (estimate for 2009)
$ 115 Carnival (check total)
$ 360 Garage sale
$7915 Total annual revenues (includes some estimates)
Expenses: $7311 ($5505 in 2007; $7760 in 2006)
Regular expenses – annual total
$2593 Ice rink maintenance (wages)
$ 200 Snow clearing ($0 in 08-09, included in rink mtce)
$2140 HP Herald printing (4 issues)
$ 978 Programs, events, admin cost & snow clearing
$ 151 Domain Name Registration & Webpage
$ 150 Playgroup material
$ 54 Insurance for snowblower; contents of CAC
$ 55 Repairs to snowblower (estimate)
$ 25 Pizza after park clean-up (estimate)
$6431
Extraordinary expenses (new programs, ad hoc events, community improvements)
$674 Furniture & Field house upgrade in 2008
$137 Snowblower locks, chain, tarp
$16.50 CAC replacement screen
$226 Rink-shovels, rubber mats ($158.10+67.80 to Colin)
$ 73 Billingswood Manor One time thank-you for use of room
$ 90 Soil, compost for garden
$1216
$7647 Total annual expenses (actual & estimate costs)
$268 Net profit 2009-10
Internet costs $236.36
Website licence $66.72+19.08=$85.80 reimbursed to Derek
Domain name reg’n $0 for next 3 years (5 years paid in 07)
E-mail accounts Primus Canada $37.64/3 mos x 4 = $150.56/year
UPS $226
Flyers, other promo $56.50 for 1000 copies x 4
For AGM, garage sale ($42), carnival, park clean-up, plant exchange, etc.
Herald $ (printing $535.14/issue x 4 issues)
Additional Financial Information
•Status as of Nov 1 ‘07: $3950 (cash) +1450 (mutual fund) = $5400
Revenue: $7629 ($7475 in 2007; $6495 in 2006)
•$4450 From the City of Ottawa for Rink Maintenance (no increase since 2006)
•$ 515 Revenue events & programs (festivals, plant exchange)
•$ 355 Membership
•$2309 Ads in HP Herald
Expenses: $7311 ($5505 in 2007; $7760 in 2006)
•$3923 Ice rink maintenance
•$1737 HP Herald publication (4 releases)
•$ 978 Programs, events, admin cost & snow clearing
•$ 151 Domain Name Registration & Webpage
•$ 674 Furniture & Field house upgrade
•$ 148 Playgroup material
Donations
•$130 (in produce) Independent and Artistic Landscape Design
Status as of Nov 1 ‘08: $3969 (cash) + $1500 (mutual fund) = $5469
Status as of April 30/09: $7487 (cash) + $1525 (mutual fund) = $9012
Adding an extra HPCA account
TD bank plans for Community or Not-for-profit groups
Plan Type Monthly # Transactions # Items Monthly
fee /month deposited/mo cash deposited
Community Plan $1.95 5* 15* $2500
Community Plan Plus $4.95 30* 30* $5600
Monthly fee rebated if minimum balance is $5,000 (regular) or $10,000 (plus)/mo.
*Additional fee of $1/transaction if monthly limit is exceeded.
*Additional fee of $0.18/deposit item if monthly limit is exceeded.
*Additional fee of $2.15/$1000 deposited if monthly limit is exceeded.
Clarifications:
One visit to the bank to deposit 5 cheques counts as 1 deposit, 5 items deposited.
Our existing account is a Community Plan Plus account.
3rd Annual Apolydor Avenue Family Fun Fest
Saturday, September 19 was the 3rd annual Apolydor Avenue Family Fun Fest. More than 5o people from the neighbourhood were in attendance. Fine food and beverages were shared. Games were played. Neighbours enjoyed each others’ company. Close to $40 was raised by Martina’s Lemonade Stand and donated to the Wednesday Night Program. The weather was very cooperative. Overall, it was a great success.
3rd Annual Apolydor Avenue Family Fun Fest.
Heron Park Hackers place 3rd in Wheelchair Relay
On Saturday, September 19, John MacFarlane’s entry in the Canadian Paraplegic Association Ontario Wheelchair Relay Challenge fundraiser garnered 3rd place. We actually placed 4th out of four teams in the final race, but a team ahead of us was aided by motorized wheelchairs.
Canadian Paraplegic Association Ontario Wheelchair Relay Challenge
John was anchor and captain of the team. We won our first two heats. In each race, Erich Kerckhoff led off, followed by Ashley, Colin MacLean, Diane MacFarlane and finally John. This is the second consecutive year the Hackers have reached the final. We hope to improve on our results next year.
