SPAR Council's Communty Q & A Handout

[sheclown]

SPAR Council Communty Q & A handout


[The numbering is mine.]
-----------------------

1.) What is SPAR doing to improve their relationships with existing business owners in the area?

SPAR features businesses constantly in the weekly update, and in the Newsletter. SPAR belongs to the business association, and makes it a point to encourage business, and to participate and encourage others to do so. A SPAR representative visits every new business that opens in the area, welcomes them, and encourages good stewardship of their business, and of the community. Example: the new Family Dollar Store on Main, and Walgreen's. SPAR supports small business (David/The Ark) to the very largest (Shands).

[sheclown]

2.) How is SPAR reaching out to new and existing businesses in the district? I have noticed the new BP opened up but not heard much (this is a nice, clean gas store with no riff raff hanging out front we should try and encourage this stays that way). I have also noted a new chiropractor on Pearl. What is being done with the current businesses we now have? Are there any grants or tax incentives to help them clean up their store fronts? Is there any type of plan for businesses, clustering? Themes for buildings such as bright colorful paints jobs as seen in other neighborhoods such as Five Points?

The gas station at 8th and Liberty was written up two different times in the weekly update, and SPAR personnel have encouraged residents to go in and try it out, just as they have with many other businesses in the neighborhood.

We meet with anyone who is considering opening a new business in the area and help them understand what opportunities may be available for leasing or for new buildings. We plan to maintain contact with a number of businesses, brokers and developers and support their bringing new businesses to Springfield.

[sheclown]

3.) The LISC grant is a matching fund. How much does SPAR currently need to raise, and by what deadline, to obtain the full grant from LISC?

The grant was for $50,000. The LISC money was not granted until the $50,000 had already been matched. That happened in June, and the money was raised through the efforts of volunteers through the Community Contribution Tax Credit Program.

[sheclown]

4.) It was stated somewhere that LISC moneys will match any donations provide for some sort of development, if so who will audit the transactions, is there an application process where a record will be kept for everyone to see who received or who was denied and why.

LISC will not match any other donations. They have given the grant for the year, which is all they will give. None of us know how much, or if they will continue to give a grant in the future. If they do, they will also specify the use of the grant money. SPAR has an annual audit which ensures sound financial practices, as does LISC and each CDC to which it offers support.

[sheclown]

5.) Will the neighborhood have input as to what and where that money will be utilized?

The neighborhood does have input as to where the money is used through the elected Board members. Before LISC gave the money the past year, a strategic plan had to be approved by LISC and by the Board which stated specifically where the money would be spent. LISC set the guidelines and the Board voted on them.

[sheclown]

6.) How exactly will the LISC grants be used? Will any of the money go to existing business owners to fix or paint their properties? Will any be used as start up grants for new businesses? Please explain how the LISC funds will be used to promote the opening of 10 new businesses as is stated in the goals for next year.

As with any grant, the grantor is very specific as to how grant monies may be used. The LISC grant is specific to commercial corridor revitalization. They designated the money to pay for the revitalization coordinator and for marketing and recruitment of retail for that purpose. They also pay for the revitalization assistant through AmeriCorps. No money is available for specific renovated projects.

The LISC funding promotes new business through the above mentioned personnel whose job it is to bring new businesses to Springfield. This does not mean that SPAR will open business, but will simply help to promote it, through specific activity.

[sheclown]

7.) What is being done with the current businesses we now have?

We expect to do more to support existing businesses in Springfield. We currently support and participate in SAMBA and support their efforts to maintain healthy businesses in Springfield.

[sheclown]

8.) Are there any grants or tax incentives to help them clean up their store fronts?

There is a possibility of some facade fix up money if the business qualifies. We have informed businesses about tax credits that are available for those businesses that donate goods at retail value to SPAR sponsored projects.

[sheclown]

9.) Is there any type of plan for business clustering?

We are developing a leasing and development strategy to encourage clustering of related businesses in targeted areas of Springfield.

[sheclown]

10.) Has SPAR received a map from the workshop with Larissa Ortiz?

Larrissa Ortiz, of LISC, is preparing a summary report of the focus groups and workshop that will be available soon. We will hold a public open house on December 16, from 11 to 2 pm, which will have maps of Springfield and potential themes and business categories for commercial areas in Springfield. Public comments are welcome as we develop a draft commercial leasing and and revitalization strategy.

[sheclown]

11.) Bus Rapid Transit is coming to Boulevard. What is SPAR's position on this proposition by JTA?

SPAR has been in dialogue with JTA for the past two years concerning a variety of transit opportunities, such that residents and business owners. [typed as stated]

SPAR has not indicated its support on BRT on Boulevard, though it has not opposed it either. To be included in the BRT system would make the Springfield area more multi-modal and less car reliant, and would serve not only residents, but employers in the area. During JTA's route planning input sessions, there was no resident opposition to the proposal as it existed. It is estimated that, at most, 4 BRT vehicles in each direction would use Boulevard in a one-hour time period, and no stop locations have been determined at this time. SPAR remains in contact with JTA as system planning continues in the event any plans justify concern.

In fall '07, planning meetings with JTA's service dept., which included providing SPAR's various study results and input from major employers and developers, resulted in an April '08 FDOT grant application for a Downtown/Springfield trolley route. The application was one of 5/6 out of 12 denied by FDOT, but JTA's service dept. is pursuing exchanging with an approved project, borrowing operational funding from another source, or re-submitting the request. SPAR has offered any assistance to JTA and is awaiting further conversation with them re: next steps.

The feasibility study that JTA had undertaken, hoping to ultimately replace the trolley route with a streetcar system is on hold until summer of '09 for funding reasons.

JTA is exploring internally the use of the S-Line, which is City owned right-of-way, as a pilot program for implementation of at-grade light rail in the city of Jacksonville. This pilot program would be based on the O-train system constructed in Ottawa in 1988 at a cost of $24M (current cost estimates are $30-40M)

[sheclown]

12.) What is SPAR's position on public transit in Jacksonville? Does SPAR currently endorse a transit plan (JTA'S BRT, the MetroJacksonville Commuter Rail Plan, etc.)?

See previous answer.

[sheclown]

13.) Has SPAR had a hand in saving any historic structures from demolition in the last 5 years? If yes, where and how was it accomplished?

SPAR has been instrumental in saving many structures in the past five years. Letters have been sent to negligent owners, and follow up has been constant to ensure that every house could be saved if the owner would do so. SPAR has worked consistently with Property Safety to try to encourage, or to force compliance. Unfortunately, if an owner chooses to let a property sit and deteriorate, there is nothing we can do. SPAR does not have the authority to take over a property from an individual who has no concern for their own property or for the community in which it sits.

[sheclown]

14) What is SPAR's plan to save the remaining structures from demolition and neglect?

See above. We will continue to work diligently.

[sheclown]

15.) What is SPAR's plan to ensure racial and socio-economic prejudice will not become prevalent during the Commercial Corridor's Revitalization? The question is not just about racial, but economic prejudice and if there is a plan to avoid it. Unfortunately, in today's world, they both often go hand in hand.

It has been SPAR's policy always to have concern for, and to help all residents. It is spelled out in the Code of Ethics, and equality is posted in the SPAR office. Service has never been refused to anyone who came to seek it out. SPAR is certainly limited in what it is able to do (there is no funding available), but we do offer consultation and commitment to do all that is possible. We offer consultation on a number of issues, from care complaints, crime, help with research of properties, and actual completion of COA forms.

[sheclown]

16.) What is SPAR's plan for walkability of the neighborhood? The new construction on Main does not address walkability or bikeability. Since the neighborhood is touted as a "walking neighborhood" what are the plans to bring walkability back to Main Street?

The construction is not completed on Main Street, and it is not currently walkable. When it is completed though, it will have medians and traffic lights, and be just as walkable as San Marco or Riverside or other neighborhoods.

The plan for Springfield streetscape was laid out years ago, with plans going from 1977 through the eighties and nineties, up to current plans. There have been Springfield residents involved every step of the way. Phil Neary was deeply involved as Director of HSCC, Rita Reagan, Jim Osteen, and many other SPAR Board members and residents were also involved. Residents were given the opportunity to vote on a plan for the medians. The City of Jacksonville has consistently worked with Springfield; the current administration has had a working partnership with us, and our Councilman, Dr. Gaffney has supported the neighborhood in many, many ways.

[sheclown]

17.) What work has been done to research grants/funds for restoration/preservation/revitalization of vacant homes or clusters such as Dancy Terrace or apartment buildings such as the Dozier that was demolished?

The Dozier went through several owners who did nothing to save the structure until it was to the point of "demolition by neglect" and had to be taken down for safety reasons. Safety is ALWAYS a priority with the City, and when an owner will not adhere to Codes, the only option remaining is demolition. SPAR investigates grants ongoingly, and applies for as many as possible. Grants are not easy to get, as they are targeted to specific needs, and hundreds of organizations also make application. If anyone could come up with a grant to fix Dancy Terrace, the whole neighborhood would be grateful.

[sheclown]

18.) What is being done about the parks? I know the dog park is moving along and is fantastic, the skate park seems to be ramping up, but what about all the other green spaces? What about Klutho? ARE there any plans to do anything with these spaces? Is there an opportunity for the neighborhood to purchase and install picnic tables, benches? Landscaping? We have been out to trim and clean the parks, I am wondering if we can install our own landscaping and furniture if enough people are interested?

SPAR has had a parks committee which has worked with the city on clean up and maintenance. That has been in place for many years as is evidenced by the work that has been done.

The Dog Park is moving along thanks to the efforts of SACARC, and the Skateplaza of Springfield group is making great progress on its plans for the Schell Park area at the corner of 5th and Boulevard. SPAR can provide some funding support to these groups, and other groups with approved projects, though the CCTP program (for example plant material and aggregate for the Skateplaza).

SPAR has been coordinating the efforts of volunteers to research the extent of the challenges with the parks. They are copious and range from creek contamination, to soil contamination, to the need for storm water management for the park system AND the commercial corridor, to historical relevance, to connectivity, to safety, beautification and amenity improvement. SPAR has had access to, and made copies of, the ORIGINAL Klutho/Imeson engineering and architectural drawings for the creek/park system, and is working toward having them temporarily displayed at the Karpeles (more volunteer help is needed for this).

Several meetings have been held with the Parks Dept., Public Works/City Engineering, and Waste Management to get any aspect of the park system moving. The city has been trying to tackle parts of the Springfield park system for more than a decade, but has run up against funding roadblocks. COJ is thrilled that SPAR has been approved for, and supports exploring further, alternative funding sources.

The Greenway project, which was scheduled to begin this past summer, was delayed due to JEA withdrawing from its portion of the project. This has resulted in the project having to be rebid by the City to include that section, and elements of the design being modified as a result of the reduced budget.

SPAR has had multiple meetings with our Councilman, Dr. Gaffney, re the importance of the park system to Springfield's revitalization. He has recently agreed to fund master plan development for the system, from 8th to Market, so it can be looked at comprehensively as a Central Park-like public space with a variety of uses, connections and amenities,. Just this week, the Project for Public Spaces out of New York, who has planned successful public spaces internationally, submitted to the city's engineering firm a scope for the master plan.

Once the project is planned, which we hope will be completed in early spring '09, SPAR can assist in pursing ALL possible funding avenues to get the park system completed.

[sheclown]

19.) Whatever happend to the tree canopy study? What is being done to preserve our tree canopy? The recent plantings of small short growing trees do not address this issue. Our older trees are dying (or being butchered beyond belief) and small flowering trees are being planted in their place. It may be pretty in a couple of years, but does not make sense for the long term.

The study was used to determine where trees were, and where trees needed to be replaced. Many trees have been replaced, and many new ones planted. It is true that some flowering trees have been planted; many were requested by residents who live in the area. The bottom line is that trees that have large root systems, and that grow very tall can not be placed in the way of utilities.

[sheclown]

20.) For beautification purposes what is planned? Is there a donation plan for paint or time to paint that could potentially be pulled together for businesses/homes? Trade schools/groups that may be willing to work at a lower cost or donate their time/skills to people in need?

SPAR has been sponsoring cleanups in Springfield for many years, and asking for volunteers to come out and help. Response has been really good, and many positive things are being accomplished. The SPAR Block Captains have been right out in front on this effort, and are to be commended for getting trash out, street lights replaced, broken sidewalks fixed, and many other things. They are always looking for more volunteers. If anyone is ready to help, please call the SPAR office (353-7727) and let us know. We will be happy to pass names along to Matt McVay, the current Block Captain chair.

[sheclown]

22.) Why is SPAR in such financial trouble?

SPAR has had financial difficulty always, however it became worse three years ago when City Grants were cut for us as well as many other deserving organizations. Form that time it became necessary for the neighborhood to support the organization. SPAR, through so many of its' efforts, i.e. supporting zoning and Property Safety Codes, the voluntary security fund, and constant marketing of the neighborhood, has caused an increase of property values for all, however not everyone sees the need to support the organization.

[sheclown]

23.) What is SPAR Council's plan to insure future transparency in its decision making process as well as its dealing with JSO, the developers and the city?

SPAR is as transparent as it can possibly be. Other neighborhoods look to us for answers as to communications through the website, written and verbal communication. There is no other neighborhood that puts out a weekly update to inform residents of activities! We can not make people read, and we cannot force them to attend meetings. We will work harder and smarter in the future though, to get information out. Good and exciting things are happening, and the more people know, the better the community will be.

[sheclown]

24.) Are the minutes to every board meeting, the voting details and even the "minutes" from the special "e-mail" votes going to be readily made public?

The meetings are open, minutes are posted for reading.

[sheclown]

25.) Why is the governance committee made up of only board members?

The governance committee of any organization is made up of those members who are the most knowledgeable relating to the workings of the organization, its mission and purpose. It would make sense therefore to select those members who had been the most active and involved, so that there would not be a cessation of activities while others were being oriented.

[sheclown]

26.) What positions have expired and when?

Some positions expired in October. Some could have been reappointed, but chose to step down for a variety of reasons. No Executive positions have expired, as they are to continue to serve until they have been replaced, or reappointed.

[sheclown]

27.) When and how will those open positions be made public, and how would the governance committee decide who meets the requirements of said open position?

The Board will advertise for specific positions, and those who qualify may apply, or someone may nominate them through the correct nomination process. Some positions will be appointed because those qualified could not, or would not be expected to run in an election. Example: a college president.

[sheclown]

28.) Since "specialized" board positions are given as the reason for not holding elections for board positions, what strides has SPAR taken with finding a structural engineer to join the board or volunteer time to inspect houses up for demolition? Houses have recently come down that have been "questionable" having a structural engineer to inspect and counter city/owner claims seems to make sense.

That position would make sense, do you know of anyone? Remember though, that the owner is not required to give access to any one unless they choose to do so. Also, it is ultimately the City's responsibility to ensure the safety of all residents, and they would be able to overrule any individual engineer.

[sheclown]

29.) Why did the board not notify the community of positions that need to be filled?

There were no positions that specifically had to be filled. However there has been a recognized need for positions such as marketing, communications, and education for quite a long time. The bylaws state that the Board may have between 10 and 15 members. There were currently 12 in October. The Executive positons are filled by the Board which elects its own Officers. This has been in effect for a number of years, and was based on the way the Jacksonville City Council holds elections. The citizens elect the councilpersons to represent them, but the council elects its executive officers. It is done in this manner because the members know those that should be the most qualified to serve.

[sheclown]

30.) Why were there no elections?

There are elections each year because the Board does elect officers, however, there may or may not need to be an election for other Board members depending on the number currently serving. The bylaws do state that current executive Board members will serve until such time as they are replaced. There are no Board members who are not official currently.

[sheclown]

31.) If the changes in the leadership structure were suggested by LISC, what prevented informing the membership of LISC's recommendations, the needed changes, and then calling a special election or having a membership meeting to reorganize the board?

The membership does not act in an official capacity except to elect its directors, who represent the entire community. Otherwise, the Board conducts business which is in the best interest of all. However, information is available in a variety of places. The meetings are open meetings and minutes are made public. It is a very transparent organization, with Board members who live and work all over the community, and are happy to answer any questions they can. Even Board members may need to research answers at times; this is a volunteer organization, and Board members have other obligaitions.

[sheclown]

32.) What are SPAR’s plans to address the By-laws issues. Will SPAR fix the transgressions or change the by-laws? If the by-laws are changed, will a neighborhood vote for ratification be held to gain by-in?

There are no transgressions. Bylaw changes may be suggested. They will be reviewed, and the Board will vote on whether the changes actually happen. The past changes were reviewed several times by all of the Board members, changes were suggested and implemented. The Board voted unanimously to accept the bylaws that are current.

[sheclown]

33.) Why has a group of elected and appointed board members, mostly the executive and Governance Committee, held a hostile take over of SPAR Council?

There is a group of dedicated volunteers, working very hard to do the best they can for the organization, and for the neighborhood which it serves. One has only to look at the accomplishments over the years to understand that SPAR is not only beneficial to the Springfield neighborhood, but is essential to the continued success and revitalization. Other organizations look at us as a model, and ask for help on particular issues.

The present Bylaws were adopted after months of meetings and consultations with a profession board consultant LISC provided free of charge in order to modernize the organization and make its governance more consistent with that of other non-profit community-based organizations. The SPAR Board adopted the bylaws unanimously after much discussion and several amendments suggested by Board members. They were adopted in compliance with State law and the SPAR Articles of Incorporation.

There has not been a takeover, hostile or otherwise; you cannot takeover yourselves. All actions of the Executive and Governance Committees have been consistent with their duties under the Bylaws.

[sheclown]

34.) Why did a non-profit that is supposed to represent this entire community force a particular board member, the only one that seems to 1.) Want to follow the by-laws, 2) listen to the entire community and 3) bring accurate and public information to that community, off of the board? What gives them, in particular, Jack Meeks, the right to do that?

There was no Board action taken related to any Board member. The person chose to resign.

[jbm32206]

:thumbsup: Now that Sheclown's been kind enough (A big thank you) to post all of the printed handout from the question and answer meeting....it's time to take a look and discuss them.

[jbm32206]

24.) Are the minutes to every board meeting, the voting details and even the "minutes" from the special "e-mail" votes going to be readily made public?

The meetings are open, minutes are posted for reading.They have never, to my knowledge...made public how board members voted, even though many of us asked them to do so. If the weekly update is what they refer to as posted...I wouldn't call them minutes of a meeting. 16.) What is SPAR's plan for walkability of the neighborhood? The new construction on Main does not address walkability or bikeability. Since the neighborhood is touted as a "walking neighborhood" what are the plans to bring walkability back to Main Street?

The construction is not completed on Main Street, and it is not currently walkable. When it is completed though, it will have medians and traffic lights, and be just as walkable as San Marco or Riverside or other neighborhoods.

The plan for Springfield streetscape was laid out years ago, with plans going from 1977 through the eighties and nineties, up to current plans. There have been Springfield residents involved every step of the way. Phil Neary was deeply involved as Director of HSCC, Rita Reagan, Jim Osteen, and many other SPAR Board members and residents were also involved. Residents were given the opportunity to vote on a plan for the medians. The City of Jacksonville has consistently worked with Springfield; the current administration has had a working partnership with us, and our Councilman, Dr. Gaffney has supported the neighborhood in many, many ways.Main street will not support walkability...you won't be able to safely walk across at all intersections. Only the even numbered streets will have cross traffic, so that means either having to cross through the medians...which is very unsafe, or you've got to walk an extra block to do so. So much for pedestrian friendly, let alone being handicapped!

[jbm32206]

26.) What positions have expired and when?

Some positions expired in October. Some could have been reappointed, but chose to step down for a variety of reasons. No Executive positions have expired, as they are to continue to serve until they have been replaced, or reappointed.There was not a clear answer given...they should certainly know what positions have expired and what positions are open. 27.) When and how will those open positions be made public, and how would the governance committee decide who meets the requirements of said open position?

The Board will advertise for specific positions, and those who qualify may apply, or someone may nominate them through the correct nomination process. Some positions will be appointed because those qualified could not, or would not be expected to run in an election. Example: a college president.So, if the board feels that even though someone may be qualified or it's someone they want...they don't have to be elected, merely appointed....which once again, opens up the ongoing issue of them appointing and not having real elections. 29.) Why did the board not notify the community of positions that need to be filled?

There were no positions that specifically had to be filled. However there has been a recognized need for positions such as marketing, communications, and education for quite a long time. The bylaws state that the Board may have between 10 and 15 members. There were currently 12 in October. The Executive positions are filled by the Board which elects its own Officers. This has been in effect for a number of years, and was based on the way the Jacksonville City Council holds elections. The citizens elect the councilpersons to represent them, but the council elects its executive officers. It is done in this manner because the members know those that should be the most qualified to serve. They contradict themselves...saying they had enough, yet there were positions that need to be filled. And of course, they do things this way because they have no faith in the membership to select someone qualified...hmmm, I thought that's why there's the governance board, to select only qualified persons to run for positions.30.) Why were there no elections?

There are elections each year because the Board does elect officers, however, there may or may not need to be an election for other Board members depending on the number currently serving. The bylaws do state that current executive Board members will serve until such time as they are replaced. There are no Board members who are not official currently.Something that they simply were going to side step...until some of the members caught on

[jbm32206]

31.) If the changes in the leadership structure were suggested by LISC, what prevented informing the membership of LISC's recommendations, the needed changes, and then calling a special election or having a membership meeting to reorganize the board?

The membership does not act in an official capacity except to elect its directors, who represent the entire community. Otherwise, the Board conducts business which is in the best interest of all. However, information is available in a variety of places. The meetings are open meetings and minutes are made public. It is a very transparent organization, with Board members who live and work all over the community, and are happy to answer any questions they can. Even Board members may need to research answers at times; this is a volunteer organization, and Board members have other obligaitions.Funny thing is....when it was learned that the board wasn't going to hold elections, and several of us started to speak up about it...there were only two board members that made any attempt to discuss this. One agreed that elections should be held, but he had just resigned...the other continued to press on with being open and honest, until a privately held meeting in which he was asked to resign...and he finally did. So where exactly is this transparency and where exactly is this 'working for the community'...:huh:

[Claude91098]

After reading all of that Joan, it seems to me, (an outsider with no dog in this fight), that the SPAR Board is trying very hard to be "politically correct" while talking "around" questions rather than giving a direct, lamen's term answer...to ANY question.

I believe that the "cure" for this is to have/demand an "all hands" meeting of the membership and the Board members in an appropriate forum suitable to seat all attendees with the necessary sound system to ensure all are heard in a clear, orderly manner.
ANY church with a podium should do, or anyother place you may know of that could accomodate such a mass meeting.

Now, if it's allo agreed upon, scheduled etc and THEN few show up...then Springfield will have spoken as to the type of involvement the majority wishes to have representing their community.

Personally, I resigned from our BOD 3 weeks ago. The people, in general, are not appreciative nor co-operative with the CC&R's, the Board or anything that is done to try and enforce the rules to keep our community a nice place to live. They DO NOT DESERVE my "volunteer" services nor my expertise. They are uninvolved and ungrateful.
Screw em'!!

[CS Foltz]

I understand only too well Mr Claude.....never been called a "Nazi" before in my life and don't care.....sticks and stones yada yada yada! I also agree with your feel as to what is taking place.....kinda like the current Administration....lip service only!

[jbm32206]

It was basically a meeting, where they had these city officials, including Gaffney. I thought it odd to have them there while airing our complaints...because there was no doubt that people weren't happy with things.

Anyway, I felt they did their best to make themselves look wonderful...a kind of 'see all that we've done for you' kind of meeting...but when it got to issues that were the reason behind all of this...that's when some of us just shook our heads at their arrogance.

On the way out, the executive director reminded me that I haven't renewed my membership...I told her that I won't until the elections....I think she got my point

[strider]

I personally think that they (the executive committee plus Mr. Meeks) were very surprised at the turn out and the fact that it was pretty much a “hostile” crowd - towards them. I really think they thought that few would show up and so the ones they called out to help them would have out numbered the rest of us.

Even the one audience member who really thought that as most of the attendees had an issue with SPAR Council's actions, then few if any of us would be members, got a surprise. About 80% of the crowd were members or at the very least, recent ex-members waiting to see the who's and what's of this before rejoining.

I fully understand how those who volunteer in organizations such as SPAR Council can get very disillusioned by the experience. In most cases, it would normally be the result of the membership not caring or not showing support. In my past experience with SPAR Council, it is the lack of support and the ridicule you get from the executive board that does in the good, selfless volunteers.

[jbm32206]

I have no doubt that they didn't dream of having the turn out as was there. Especially when it seemed that so many were upset about the elections, or the lack there of. Mouton was very defensive and it showed in his comments. I think we took them by surprise, and I hope it's a wake up call for them, that we're not going to sit by and be ignored.

[CS Foltz]

Ms JBM....SPAR is a mini slice of the current Administration......your so-called Board has its own agenda and that does not appear to involve the residents of your area! From what I see their agenda is strictly "Business oriented" and does nothing to enhace the neighborhood from a resident point of view! I would not pay their membership fee either unless they had "transparency" ....open elections...and a few other quibbles corrected!Financial issue's are of their own doings.....best bet might be to let them sink and then build on the wreckage!

[downtownparks]

CS, putting some of the rhetoric aside, the #1 complaint from most residents is a lack of businesses. SPAR is acting on what has been stated in several studies as being the biggest concern among the residents who responded.

It has long been believed by many Springfielders that the business districts have far lagged behind the residential. Acting on this information isnt what makes SPAR right or wrong, and even though there appears to be a disconnect between the board and its by laws they are not acting in bad faith. They just have not acted in a way that makes the organization seem inclusive.

[jbm32206]

It's kind of a catch 22...the neighborhood wants more businesses and yet it can't really sustain them financially. I for one, don't want to see the smaller ones hurt by it, and it's a struggle to keep them afloat as it is.

I feel that once Main street is completed and the market moves back into a healthy one, that we'll see more in the way of progress in this area. To be honest, I just can't blame spar for this, they may have a minor role in the ongoing lack of new businesses coming to the neighborhood, but they really can't take the brunt of the blame.

[MindingEye]

A personal reality check, Is this missing a smiley face? :biggrin:


"... and even though there appears to be a disconnect between the board and its by laws
they are not acting in bad faith. They just have not acted in a way
that makes the organization seem inclusive."

[sheclown]

Meeting Started at 7:00 and ended at 8:00 pm

In Attendance were: Louise DeSpain, Claude Moulton, Gerry Troy, Judy Connare, Thomas Love, Kharis Quaintance, Barbara Sweet. On the phone from New Jersey was Derek Hudson.

Governance Committee has determined that it has 10 directors and needs 5 more. They intend to fill three by appointment and 2 by election.

The three appointees will be 1.) an educator 2.) a treasurer 3.) a marketing person. Announced and voted on was the educator position. Linda Fife Shannon, of FCCJ will be one of the appointees. No mention was made about particulars of the other two.

The elected positions will be filled by election on January 15th. By Monday Jan 5th, all names for nominees must be submitted to the governance committee. On Monday January 12th board meeting, the governance committee will give a report to the board and the board will vote on nominations. There will be a general election on January 15th.

There will be an open house on December 16th regarding the Revitalization Meeting.

Louise is working on a new hand out -- a policy and procedure handbook to be voted on for adoption at the next meeting.

BRT buses for Boulevard: an email was sent by Karla requesting the board to oppose this. There was discussion with Derek suggesting the board present a preference for light rail. Board members were encouraged to research the BRT issues.

Other talk about Santa and light pole decorating.

The drive by shooting was done by the man who drives the loud purple car. Two men were fighting over a woman.

The pharmacy was done by professionals. It took only 1 minute and though it was filmed, it happened way too quick. No fingerprints. It is thought that this was not done by locals.

Judy Connare brought up drinking at the labor pool on 8th Street. It was suggested that neighbors keep a closer watch for foot traffic because less people are able to find work and this can lead to criminal behavior.

Louise DeSpain discussed the CCTP (Commercial Tax Credit Contributors) and how it works for businesses who contribute. They can receive up to 50% of their donations back if they collect sales tax or pay corp income tax. They can receive up to 100% of their donations if they make in kind donations.

SPAR has three projects approved by the state:

Hogan's creek
Commercial Corridor
Community Initiatives

This is it for my unofficial minutes.

[jbm32206]

I don't understand why they need to appoint anyone, when all they have to do is seek from the community, those that have those qualifications....I know there's educators, and persons that have skills to be treasurer as well as marketing. And of course, by them saying that they'll appoint and not allow those positions to go before the membership to apply...which is shameful.

[CS Foltz]

DTP.....I partially agree....but need to point out if SPAR is business oriented and appears to be failing they are not the orginization to represent the Area.........In fact based on what I have seen not really sure who or what they are representing! Membership Fee allows them to operate but thats it.....there has to be a better way.....don't agree with appointments either....as large as that area is there should be more than enough qualified people who live there now!

[jbm32206]

The appointments are merely a means in which they can assure that certain people are placed onto the board. They can't risk having them running in an election, as it's not certain the members would elect them...which happened before when there was someone in particular the board wanted and that person wasn't elected. It doesn't seem to matter that there are indeed, people within in the community that are more than qualified....but of course, that wouldn't be the person they want.

[jbm32206]

It's to my understanding that the president and secretary's positions have expired, so are they going to be appointed, or are these the two positions that will be up for elections?

[sheclown]

It's to my understanding that the president and secretary's positions have expired, so are they going to be appointed, or are these the two positions that will be up for elections?


No specific skill set was mentioned in regards to the elected positions. Nor were Claude and Barbara mentioned at the meeting. I seriously doubt their positions will even be addressed.

[jbm32206]

I don't expect them to be addressed, which is why I still have issues with the spar board. I'm sure they'll just be quietly appointed, why would they chance losing people they have in their corner? Just as I'm sure a certain other person will be appointed...

[sheclown]

zoo?

[jbm32206]

you know it

[CS Foltz]

Ms JBM.....I see the path to take.....do not pay membership fee....since your not being represented....and let SPAR die a natural death.....when it does sink then rebuild on the ashes and then you can get something to represent both sides!

[strider]

As I see it, the problem with trying to just ignore SPAR Council until it just goes away on it's own is that it very well may not go away. If all of this nonsense has been done as a big stupid mistake by board members who mean well and are just misguided, then it may fade away. But what if something is really up here? What if there is a project or projects coming down the pike that certain developers need this SPAR Council to be here for so they can benefit? It would be worth their while to fund SPAR Council. In some ways, they already have. So we end up with an organization of appointed people doing whatever they want without any checks and balances and presenting themselves as representing all of us. How much damage could they do? I know this is not a popular sediment, but I am not the only one thinking and fearing this outcome.

One of the things I have heard a lot is how much good this organization and even some of the people involved have done in the past. Well, the future is what I am worried about. And we have indeed seen signs that the organization is not going to follow the desires of this community but rather whatever they, or their “favorite sons”, decide is best for us.

[MindingEye]

Looking at this from out of the neighborhood Strider's remark is right on the mark.

This could not be going on without political cover from outside of the neighborhood.
The Citizens only protection is in the Government obedience to the Laws.
We have lost this in Jacksonville.

[sheclown]

It is the formation of the Governance Committee which is so alarming.

The GC makes all of the "important" decisions for SPAR, does it not?

The GC is all appointed.

The GC meetings are held in private and the minutes are only available to board members, should any board member dare ask to see them. (Think what happened to Alex here).

[jbm32206]

I agree, that the GC is one of the most alarming issues. It would be different, had they asked for members to sit on the committee, even with some of their own appointees. That would've been much more fair. It's also alarming that they only report to the board, and there's no minutes for members to review...it's all wrong.

[Claude91098]

I agree, that the GC is one of the most alarming issues. It would be different, had they asked for members to sit on the committee, even with some of their own appointees. That would've been much more fair. It's also alarming that they only report to the board, and there's no minutes for members to review...it's all wrong.

So much for doing business in the Sunshine...eh?
Doesn't that law cover SPAR???
Even so, a committee may be insulated from everyone except the Board, but the Board isn't supposed to be insulated from ANY member.

Seems to me that there are many members that are not happy campers with the SPAR Board or how any of it is administrated. The actions, or not, taken will determine the power struggle that is so obviously going on.

[jbm32206]

I don't believe the sunshine law governs spar, as it's not a government entity. Even though many of us have been asking for transparency, there's a very limited amount given...and this governance committee sure doesn't provide any at all.

[Claude91098]

Check the Florida statute they are operating under. You may be surprised at what you find!

[CS Foltz]

Ms JBM.....Mr Claude does have a point.....especially if they are receiving any Funds for operations...ie local level and up! It looks more and more like an end run with lip service!

[strider]

SPAR Council no longer receives any grant money from the city (state/ federal funds). Often, due to the benifits to the donor, the largest amounts from other sources, like LISC, are given to specific programs so they can not be used for normal operations. Which brings us back to private funding sources, which may or may not want something in return.

[CS Foltz]

No such thing as a free lunch strider......everything has a price! Trick is to find what you want at a price you can afford. Private sources may be the way to go....such as the Weaver Foundation or outright grants.....have not thought about it....but must be some alternative or options available but the SPAR Board needs to address the problems with Board appointments and the operative word is "appointments".....not elective!

[MindingEye]

"Check the Florida statute they are operating under. You may be surprised at what you find!"

Claude what is the section they are regulated by in the FS?

[nightobserver]

It is Ch 617. Seems like we had this discussion some time ago on another thread. No sunshine law, no HOA.

[MindingEye]

Nightobserver thanks for the FS Ch #.


It seems there are alternatives to be found there.

Such as:

617.0304 Ultra vires.--
(1) Except as provided in subsection (2), the validity of corporate action, including, but not limited to, any conveyance, transfer, or encumbrance of real or personal property to or by a corporation, may not be challenged on the ground that the corporation lacks or lacked power to act.
(2) A corporation's power to act may be challenged:
(a) In a proceeding by a member against the corporation to enjoin the act;
(b) In a proceeding by the corporation, directly, derivatively, or through a receiver, trustee, or other legal representative, or through members in a representative suit, against an incumbent or former officer, employee, or agent of the corporation; or
(c) In a proceeding by the Attorney General, as provided in this act, to dissolve the corporation or in a proceeding by the Attorney General to enjoin the corporation from the transaction of unauthorized business.
(3) In a member's proceeding under paragraph (2)(a) to enjoin an unauthorized corporate act, the court may enjoin or set aside the act, if equitable and if all affected persons are parties to the proceeding, and may award damages for loss (other than anticipated profits) suffered by the corporation or another party because of enjoining the unauthorized act.
History.--s. 26, ch. 90-179.

http://www.leg.state.fl.us/Statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&Search_String=&URL=Ch0617/SEC0304.HTM&Title=->2007->Ch0617->Section%200304#0617.0304 (http://www.leg.state.fl.us/Statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&Search_String=&URL=Ch0617/SEC0304.HTM&Title=->2007->Ch0617->Section%200304#0617.0304)

View Entire Chapter (http://www.leg.state.fl.us/Statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&URL=Ch0617/ch0617.htm) http://www.leg.state.fl.us/Statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&URL=Ch0617/ch0617.htm (http://www.leg.state.fl.us/Statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&URL=Ch0617/ch0617.htm)

[sheclown]

So, what does this say?

[CS Foltz]

Says you have options.....(2)says corporation can be challanged......this has to go through the court system though......then goes on to describe the what fores yada yada but Attorney General can take on said corporation....sounds to me like something that Jimmy needs to translate....I do not speak "Lawyer"

[sheclown]

So, members could file a suit against SPAR for violating its bylaws?

[CS Foltz]

From what I gather from what was posted ....yes! But must point out according to what I saw "member" would apply, which I would interpret to mean current member as paid up with dues or fee's already paid for! That may be a sticking point but when your at that point letter of the Law is being applied not the spirit! You may wish to consider PM'ing Jimmy since he is a barrister for confirmation but that's what I interpret that post to say!