Forest Park Civic Association Meeting Minutes

Date: 14 Nov 2023

The meeting attendance report, meeting minutes, and 2024 Slate of Candidates can be found by following this link — CLICK HERE

Forest Park Civic Association Meeting

Date: 10 October 2023

Location: Epworth United Methodist Church

Meeting called to order @ 8:01 PM by Ed Vanasdale 

The Pledge of Allegiance was recited.

Attendance was taken via role call.

OFFICER REPORTS

President Ed Vanasdale – ed1vanasdale@gmail.com

Budget Meeting Report (see the Budget Meeting Minutes in this Forester or at the end of these minutes-online only).

Guest Speaker: Gifting Youth Joy (non-profit organization)

Ziggy Cicchella (Secretary) (who lives in Forest Park) and their social work colleagues, Eryca Rivera (Treasurer), and Ellie Church (President) have started a non-profit organization called “Gifting Youth Joy.” Teens are often passed over in gift and toy drives, and they want to bring attention to the large number of teens in our community who are without during the holidays. Most toy drives stop gifting to kids when they reach 12 yrs old. They are hoping to fill that gap and give teens the wonderful holiday they deserve. They are accepting donations at giftingyouthjoy.org

Vice President Trevor Secord – tsecord@une.edu   NCC Report in this issue of the Forester.

Secretary Lou Bernard – loubernard3@gmail.com

1. Attendance: 

• Officers/Committee Chairs Present: EV, TS, LB, CL, MS, RW, MB, SL, SB, AP, KG, DP
• Officers/Committee Chairs Absent: DVM, KVM, LH
• Area Reps in Attendance: 2, 5, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 
• Area Reps Absent: 1, 3, 4, 6, 14 (Area 14 remains vacant )
• Total meeting attendance: 35
• Attendance Record Sheet Thru October

2. Review minutes from September, no changes were made. Minutes approved.

Treasurer Cheryl Lutman – cllutman17@gmail.com

1. 13 new household memberships – one person noted they moved to the neighborhood 8/2023!
2. Advertising revenue of $1,145. Note that we have billed an additional $1,380 in advertising that has not been paid yet. In addition, we have $200 “on account” from those who have prepaid their ads for the year. Plus we deposited the rest of the Welcome Committee funds, including the match. We raised $505 for that effort – well done, all!
3. Expenses are in line. The August Forester printing was $985, we had bags for $91.38 and security was $675. We also paid for the garage sale ad of $51.96

Public Relations Mary Sguerra –  marysguerra@howardhanna.com

We had a garage sale in the fall with 21 participants. We made $51 after all advertising bills were paid (i.e. The Columbus Dispatch ads)

Forester Editor Rita Woeste – forester_ed@fpcivic.org

1. Nov/Dec. Forester will be combined into one issue. This helps with cost, but also with deliverers.
2. Articles for Nov/Dec are due by Nov. 3. Delivery around Nov. 12th and beyond.
3. We are still looking for delivery help. If you are interested in becoming an active part of your community, please contact Rita.

Supplemental Security Daryl Van Mercetta – dvanmercetta@gmail.com, Katie Van Mercetta – kvanmercetta@gmail.com, Dan Yandrich (CPD Liaison Officer) – dyandrich@columbuspolice.org 614.645.1418 Absent – No Report

Business Representative Marty Biggs – Marlynabiggs@yahoo.com,  Sheridan Landon – slandon52@gmail.com  – No Report

COMMITTEE REPORTS

Welcome Committee Chair Laura Hayes – hayeslaura2@gmail.com

Welcome folders are almost ready to be sent out.

Volunteer Coordinator Scott Biggs – volunteerfpca@gmail.com   

1. We are creating the slate of volunteers for positions for the 2024 FPCA year. We are always looking for new members and people interested in serving their community. Please contact Scott if you are interested in helping.
2. We are also creating a new “Membership Coordinator” position and are looking for a motivated volunteer who loves working with people and is comfortable working with a database or spreadsheet.

Social Activities Andrea Philipsen – andrea@yellowumbrellahomes.com

1. Dirty Frank’s Hot Dog Food Truck 5 pm Monday 10/16 at the YMCA.
2. TRUNK OR TREAT! I am using budget money to buy some extra candy, so I simply need extra volunteers! Trunks and kids needed too! 🙂 Trunk or Treat at the YMCA on 10/30 – Monday 6-8 pm. Please contact Andrea if you are willing to open your trunk for kids!
3. More info forthcoming on Veterans Day ceremony at the YMCA in November and Breakfast with Santa on December 2nd.
4. No pressure to have an FPCA table set up at events – it’s merely an opportunity to bring in more revenue for our organization. Andrea is unable to host and monitor a table simultaneously. She gets that volunteering is becoming more and more “a lost art” these days, but as leaders of our neighborhood, everyone should make an appearance at these organized events from time to time, show your support and interact with our Forest Park neighbors!
5. New postcards were made and put in the Welcome Folders to describe the FPCA and what we do.

NCC Representatives Ken Gilbert – kgilbert78@att.net, Trevor Secord – tsecord@une.edu

See NCC Report in this issue.

NCC Development Representative Ed Vanasdale – ed1vanasdale@gmail.com

2 cases were brought before the committee, only one pertained to FP. 

• Application to permit use for window tinting and car rental services; concurrent Council variance to add storage uses – 2050 E Dublin Granville Rd, 43229. The Committee approved (13-0) a motion to TABLE the application, as requested by the applicant.

Website Administrators Scott Biggs – volunteerfpca@gmail.com, Dave Paul – dwpaul@fpcivic.org  

Our website and Facebook pages are always being updated with new and upcoming info! Please check them out!!

OLD BUSINESS

None

NEW BUSINESS/ANNOUNCEMENTS/IDEAS

None

Meeting adjourned at 7:59 PM

Meeting minutes submitted by Lou Bernard, Secretary, FPCA

(Budget meeting minutes follow.)

_____________________________________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________________________

Budget Meeting

Date: 5 Oct 2023

Epworth United Methodist Church

Meeting called to order by Ed Vanasdale @ 7:00 PM

The following Executive Board Members, Officers, and Committee Chairs were in attendance: 

Ed Vanasdale (Pres), Trevor Secord (VP), Cheryl Lutman (Treas), Lou Bernard (Sec), Mary Squerra (Pub. Relations), Rita Woeste (Forester Editor), Daryl Vanmercetta (Security), Marty Biggs (Business), Laura Hayes (Welcome), Scott Biggs (Volunteer), and Dave Paul (Website)

The meeting was called to make sure the budget is balanced now that most of the memberships have been collected. As of 10/5/2023, we had 387 paid memberships since the beginning of the budget cycle (April 1). Last year we collected 480 paid memberships. Last year, items were cut from the budget (i.e. the number of Supplemental Security patrol hours) in order to balance the budget. This meeting was scheduled knowing that we are almost 100 memberships down from last year.

Items that were discussed, voted on, and passed are as follows:

1. The budget was reviewed and it was decided that we could not cut the Forester or Supplemental Security since those were promised through this budget cycle. A motion was made and passed to supply any budget shortfall (approximately $895) with money from the reserves in the savings account. Noting that if membership does not increase next year, Supplemental Security may take a major hit.
2. In order to save money, the November and December Forester will be combined into a single issue. January and February issues will be online like they have been since Covid. 
3. The membership drive mailing will be moved to March instead of May to correspond with the beginning of the budget cycle, April 1st. If any money is needed to make this happen, because technically it was not budgeted for in the 23-24 budget, the money will be borrowed from the reserves.
4. A letter will be included in the March/Membership newsletter explaining budget cuts to the 24-25 year if the membership count does not increase.
5. $500 was reallocated to the Social Committee to help Andrea continue to plan, promote, and expand the many activities she is coordinating.
6. We are in GREAT need of a Membership Drive Committee Chair, the Volunteer Coordinator will be looking to fill this role.
7. Welcome Committee and Volunteer Committee chairs will be working to contact Area Reps to deliver the new Welcome Folders. 
8. The December meeting, to follow tradition, will be held at a local restaurant for the Officers, Committee Chairs, Area Reps and their families. Restaurants were discussed and a meeting place will be announced shortly. (Note: None of this meeting is paid with FPCA funds, each person/family is responsible for their own bill.)

Meeting adjourned 8:36 PM.

Budget Meeting Minutes submitted by Lou Bernard, Secretary, FPCA

Forest Park Civic Association Meeting

Forest Park Civic Association Meeting

Date: 12 Sep 2023

Location: Epworth United Methodist Church

Meeting called to order @ 7:02PM by Ed Vanasdale 

The Pledge of Allegiance was recited.

Attendance was taken via role call.

OFFICER REPORTS

President Ed Vanasdale – ed1vanasdale@gmail.com No Report

Guest Speaker:  Devin Deal : Neighborhood Liaison DDDeal@columbus.gov  (614) 645-7964

Devin was hired 2 months ago replacing Alfred Akainyah.

1. Goal is to support the area civic associations, and escalate the concerns that people have. He will help us find the right people in order to solve local problems.
2. A neighbor had a concern about the excessive speed on Sandalwood Ave. He wanted info about how to get speed bumps installed. Devin’s suggestion is first we need to submit 311 about speeding on Sandalwood, Satinwood, etc. Start taking note of time when speeding is most prevalent. A traffic calming committee will be established to draft a letter and get signatures to petition the city.
3. A neighbor had a concern about the area surrounding the old pool behind Sequoia Bowl. Devin will drive by and take a look at the property. He will see if there is a possibility to get the organization who owns the property connected with organizations for cleaning up the property.
4. A neighbor was concerned about the amount of vandalism happening in FP. Devin will be coming back with people from the City of Columbus to hear concerns.
5. A neighbor had a concern about the lack of green space that has been removed due to the roundabout project along Rt. 161. Devin will follow up with the neighbor.

Vice President Trevor Secord – tsecord@une.edu Absent  No Report

Secretary Lou Bernard – loubernard3@gmail.com

1. Attendance:

• Officers/Committee Chairs Present: EV, LB, CL, MS, RW, DVM, KVM, SL, LH, AP, KG, DP
• Officers/Committee Chairs Absent: TS, MB, SB
• Area Reps in Attendance: 1, 2, 4, 7, 11, 12, 13
• Area Reps Absent: 3, 5, 6, 8, 9, 10, 14 (Area 14 remains vacant)
• Total meeting attendance: 23

1. Reviewed minutes from July, no changes or corrections needed, minutes have been approved and were entered into the official records.

Treasurer Cheryl Lutman – cllutman17@gmail.com

1. 24 new household memberships, 1 new business membership.  It came in through Hadler Companies.  They also requested we continue their ad with no changes. We continue to receive contributions toward our other function areas.
2. Primary expenses were the Forester printing, security patrols and the cost of mowing the islands.
3. Cheryl is working with the advertising chair to provide an update on outstanding advertising invoices. She will amend this report with that detail later this week. 

Public Relations Mary Sguerra –  marysguerra@howardhanna.com

We have the Fall Garage Sale this Saturday and the Bowling Outing on Sunday.

Forester Editor Rita Woeste – forester_ed@fpcivic.org

1. Needed money to buy bags for the Forester. Money was approved.
2. Articles by this Friday, Sept. 15th. 
3. We need one extra delivery person for 3 months. Please contact Rita.

Supplemental Security Daryl Van Mercetta – dvanmercetta@gmail.com, 

Katie Van Mercetta – kvanmercetta@gmail.com, 

Dan Yandrich (CPD Liaison Officer) – dyandrich@columbuspolice.org 614.645.1418

See report in the Forester.

Business Representative Marty Biggs – Marlynabiggs@yahoo.com  Absent,  Sheridan Landon – slandon52@gmail.com  No Report

COMMITTEE REPORTS

Welcome Committee Chair Laura Hayes – hayeslaura2@gmail.com

1. Hello! I am excited to be the newest member of the Forest Park Civic Association! I want to thank the previous chair – Ellin Ray – for all of her hard work and many years of support to the community. 
2. This month we stuffed 50 welcome folders! They should be ready to get delivered by all area reps in the very near future. Thanks to everyone who made this possible. 

Volunteer Coordinator Scott Biggs – volunteerfpca@gmail.com Absent

1. I staffed the FPCA table at the YMCA Food Truck in August with Andrea Philipsen. No new memberships, but we spoke to several people who were already members and handed out info on home property valuations and the 311 service.
2. I delivered extra Foresters to businesses (Donato’s, Gabby’s, Library, YMCA, Sequoia Pro Bowl, Epworth United, etc.) and have started dropping off newsletters to Prince Pizza in Tamarack Circle for their customers. The Manager was very friendly and receptive to future advertising in the Forester. All businesses are always happy to get the newsletters and have remarked often about how people ask for them.
3. I have started promoting a new FPCA Membership campaign called “Be a Part of the Park!” to run from September through December to increase memberships and volunteers. The campaign features photos of diverse people to show that everyone is welcome. Andrea has shared some good photos of residents at events that I will work into the campaign. Samples are on the fpcivic.org website and our Facebook page and on the vinyl membership sign with a QR code to our website (color version will replace the black and white poster soon). I also submitted a half page ad to Rita for the next Forester if she has space.
4. Website and Facebook updates continue weekly with upcoming events. Andrea Philipsen has joined the Facebook team and has added upcoming events as Facebook events so residents can save the events as reminders. We will promote this weekend’s Garage Sale and Bowling events. 
5. Questions and comments on Facebook about street lights continue to appear. I replied with an explanation and invited all interested parties to attend meetings for more info on this topic, especially tonight’s meeting with Devin. We may want to print an article/update about this in the next Forester from Ed or someone who knows more details.
6. I printed 200 Membership/Volunteer sheets for the new Welcome packets and delivered them to Laura. Many thanks to Laura and the volunteers who initiated and facilitated the new Welcome Packets!

Social Activities Andrea Philipsen – andrea@yellowumbrellahomes.com

Planning lots of events. Look for an infographic in this month’s Forester.

NCC Representatives Ken Gilbert – kgilbert78@att.net  Trevor Secord – tsecord@une.edu Absent

See report in the Forester.

NCC Development Representative Ed Vanasdale – ed1vanasdale@gmail.com

3 cases were heard. None were in the immediate Forest Park neighborhood and were of little concern for its residents.

Website Administrators Scott Biggs – volunteerfpca@gmail.com Absent, Dave Paul – dwpaul@fpcivic.org  

Our website is always – always being updated with new and upcoming info! Please check it out!!

OLD BUSINESS

Mark Bell (Area 13 Rep) offered to match any collected funds to help restart the Welcome Folders. $250 was collected from members, and matching funds were met. Some Welcome Folders were found, more will be purchased with these new funds. The money collected will also be used to cover printing costs for the items in the folder. Thank you Mr. Bell!

NEW BUSINESS/ANNOUNCEMENTS/IDEAS

We are looking for 3 or 4 people to form a committee concerning having speed bumps installed on the streets of Forest Park. If you are interested, submit your name to the secretary, Lou Bernard, loubernard3@gmail.com, and he will get your info to the appropriate people.

Meeting adjourned at 8:10 PM

Meeting minutes submitted by Lou Bernard, Secretary, FPCA

Forest Park Civic Association Meeting

Date: 11 July 2023

Location: Epworth United Methodist Church

Meeting called to order @ 7:03 PM by Ed Vanasdale 

The Pledge of Allegiance was recited.

Attendance was taken via role call.

OFFICER REPORTS

President Ed Vanasdale  ed1vanasdale@gmail.com

1. Discussed the parade and the great time that was had. The Bikes-n-Trikes event was very successful. Thank you to all those that helped or participated. Thanked Catharine Gilbert for helping to organize all the cheerleading groups!
2. Block Watch and Code Issues meetings are now at new times. Please be aware.
3. Thanks to Andrea for the great job organizing the Dirty Frank’s Hotdog food truck on Monday.
4. There will be no August FPCA meetings (Block Watch, Code, and Civic Assoc.). In August, we will attend the NCC Picnic. (See the NCC report below)

Guest Speaker: none

Vice President Trevor Secord  tsecord@une.edu

1. National Night Out event at the North YMCA on Tues., August 1st for the Forest Park Civic Association. The event will be from 5-8pm. There will be food, inflatables and games.
2. See 11 July NCC meeting report in the Forester. 

Secretary Lou Bernard –  loubernard3@gmail.com

1. Attendance:

• Officers/Committee Chairs Present: EV, LB, CL, DVM, SL, SB, AP, RW 
• At the NCC Meeting: TS, KG, DP
• Officers/Committee Chairs Absent: MS, MB, AR, ER, KVM
• Area Reps in Attendance: 2, 5, 6, 7, 9, 12, 13
• Area Reps Absent: 1, 3, 4, 8, 10, 11, 14 (Area 14 remains vacant )
• Total meeting attendance: 23

1. Reviewed minutes from June, there were a few email errors and typos. They were all corrected on the online version and official record of the minutes.
2. Attendance Sheet thru July: https://www.fpcivic.org/wordpress/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/2023-FPCA-Attendance-Thru-July.pdf

Treasurer Cheryl Lutman – cllutman17@gmail.com

1. 109 new household memberships – thank you! Of the 21 coming through PayPal, 17 elected to also pay the fee – thank you!
2. Additional sums were donated to our functional areas of security, beautification and the Forester – thank you as well!
3. Advertising revenue for the month was $645.00 – covering approximately 65% of the cost of printing.
4. Major expenses include US Protection for our security patrols, our annual membership in NCC, the garage sale ad, and the maintenance of the islands. We also paid to print the Forester and Rita ordered bags.
5. The other major item is the bank assessed a fee of $45.50. It was found out that 5th/3rd is now charging a fee on all checks processed. We are looking for a new bank with lower or no fees.

Public Relations Mary Sguerra –  marysguerra@howardhanna.com  Absent  – no report

Forester Editor Rita Woeste – forester_ed@fpcivic.org

1. Next Thursday, July 20, is the deadline for the August Forester, the first week in August will be the delivery date.
2. Blue Ash still needs to be covered. Lou Bernard and Laura Hayes are now covering routes on the Forester delivery squad. 
3. Lowell Lutman has been doing a great job getting ads for the Forester.

Supplemental Security Daryl Van Mercetta – dvanmercetta@gmail.com, Katie Van Mercetta – kvanmercetta@gmail.com  Absent, Dan Yandrich (CPD Liaison Officer) –  dyandrich@columbuspolice.org 614.645.1418

Don’t forget about the Block Watch meeting at 6:00-6:30 pm before the Civic Association meetings except in Aug. See the complete report in the Forester.

Business Representative Marty Biggs – Marlynabiggs@yahoo.com  Absent Sheridan Landon – slandon52@gmail.com  Alan Ray – aray.bergahorn@gmail.com  Absent

1. Reached out to Hadler Companies once again and spoke with Mindy. She said she would forward emailed information to the president and expressed interest in a business card size ad, as well. We will follow up again via email next week.
2. Does anyone know any local business owners that might be interested in a business membership? Or are YOU a local business owner who would like a reasonable place to advertise? Contact Marty Biggs at the above email address.

COMMITTEE REPORTS

Welcome Committee Chair Ellin Ray – eclaire1226@gmail.com Absent

Report by Lou Bernard

1. We are in the process of bringing back the Welcome Folders for new homeowners. I have been running around this week gathering materials and finding them online to put into the folders. The plan will be that when everything is gathered and ready to go, that we will do a folder stuffing. We will stuff approximately 200+ folders (enough) for the whole year. The committee chair only needs to find the names and addresses of the new homeowners and bring the folders to the meeting or get them to the area reps for delivery. We are hoping to get these back by September at the latest. We feel some of the lack of membership has been because of lag in getting new homeowners to join right away.
2. We will need 2 things: 1) about 4 or 5 volunteers to help stuff the folders and 2) approximately $300-500 to cover the cost of the printing of the folders and any copies that will go into the folder. There was a discussion about the need for folders. Some members were worried about the cost, then Area 13 Rep, Mark Bell, stepped up and made an offer to match dollar for dollar the amount raised to cover the cost of the supplies and the printing. We collected $165 at the meeting! Thank you to Mark and all those who have donated!!! If you are interested in donating, contact Lou Bernard, Secretary, or Cheryl Lutman, Treasurer. Their emails are in the minutes.

Volunteer Coordinator Scott Biggs – volunteerfpca@gmail.com

1. Thanks to everyone who was in attendance at the meeting and those who marched in the parade, helped with the parade, and judged the Bikes-n-Trikes.
2. We received 5 new memberships from members at the Dirty Franks event. We are looking for people to volunteer to sit at the Forest Park Membership table at the Buckeye Shaved Ice event at the YMCA this Friday, July 14.
3. Prince Pizza is taking over the old Dairy Queen Spot in Tamarack Circle.

Social Activities Andrea Philipsen andrea@yellowumbrellahomes.com

1. Thanked everyone for their support at the Dirty Frank’s event. We need to continue to have a table at all upcoming events. Dirty Frank’s was a success. 60+ people attended. Lou B. & Scott B. had a FP table collecting memberships. Thanks to all who came out!
2. Upcoming Events:
   • THIS Friday, July 14, 4-6pm Buckeye Shaved Ice at the YMCA
   • Aug 11th (Friday) 8pm: Karaoke at Sequoia Bowl
   • Aug. 21st (Monday) 5-8 pm: Tortilla Mexican Street Food Truck at the YMCA 
   • Aug. 26th (Saturday) 7-8:30 pm: Concert on the Driveway at the Dove Household (5785 Lindenwood Rd). For more info, see “The Forest Park Gardener’s” article in this month’s Forester.
   • Aug. 28th (Monday) 8-10 am: Bushel and Bean Coffee Truck at the YMCA
3. Check Facebook and Forester for upcoming events.

NCC Representatives Ken Gilbert – kgilbert78@att.net Trevor Secord – tsecord@une.edu

1. Catherine Gilbert attended the Stakeholder Open House for the 161 Roundabout Project. She passed out packets from the meeting to those in attendance at the civic association meeting.
2. NCC Picnic Info: From the Northland Community Council:  Instead of our usual meeting in August, we will be hosting our annual NCC Picnic on August 8th at Blendon Woods Park, Dogwood Area. We have the pavilion for the entire day so feel free to come out early and enjoy all that the park has to offer. Dinner will be served at 6:30. NCC will provide hamburgers, hot dogs and brats, please bring a dish to share. At 7pm we will have a very brief meeting and please be sure that your community is represented as it does count towards attendance. We encourage you to invite your communities to join us for a day of fun and camaraderie. I have attached a flyer for the picnic for your convenience.

See 11 July NCC meeting report in the Forester.

NCC Development Representative Ed Vanasdale – ed1vanasdale@gmail.com

1. The old “Olive Garden” or “Buckeye Crazy” has been razed by the owner to sell as land only.
2. 4 cases were heard, only 1 case pertains to our area: Application to use variance to permit four 40′ x 8′ permanent storage containers to be installed and maintained on the site (it was tabled March 2023). The NCC Committee recommended disapproval.
3. The old China Dynasty (next to the Chipotle on Rt. 161) is being renovated into a Mexican restaurant. 
4. Don’t forget about the Development/311 Meeting at 6:30-7:00 pm before the Civic Association meetings. No meetings in August–the next meetings will be held on Tuesday, September 12th. 

Website Administrators Scott Biggs – volunteerfpca@gmail.com Dave Paul – dwpaul@fpcivic.org  

Our website and Facebook pages are always – always being updated with new and upcoming info! Please check them out!!

OLD BUSINESS   None

NEW BUSINESS/ANNOUNCEMENTS/IDEAS   None

Meeting adjourned at 8:05 PM

Meeting minutes submitted by Lou Bernard, Secretary, FPCA

Forest Park Civic Association Meeting

Date: 13 June 2023

Location: Epworth United Methodist Church

Meeting called to order @7:01PM by Ed Vanasdale 

The Pledge of Allegiance was recited.

Attendance was taken via role call.

OFFICER REPORTS

President Ed Vanasdale  ed1vanasdale@gmail.com

There is a new format for the FPCA meetings see article in this month’s Forester.

• 6:00-6:30 Block Watch Meeting/Supplemental Security Report (CPD Liaison Officer Dan Yandrich and our Sup. Sec. chairpersons will be in attendance to answer your questions). Police issues will NOT be discussed at the regular FPCA  meeting.
• 6:30-7:00 Code Enforcement Issues Discussion/NCC Development Report – If you have any questions regarding code issues, i.e. semi-trucks or cars parked on street, neighbor’s grass is uncut, etc., this will be the time to come and talk with the FPCA President and officers concerning those issues. Code issues will NOT be discussed at the regular FPCA meeting.
• 7:00-8:00 FPCA Meeting The monthly meeting will take place as usual, but the above two items will not be discussed, leaving time for guest speakers and other committee reports, AND ending the meeting at 8:00 pm.

Guest Speaker: Nicole Sochacki nsochacki@columbuslibrary.org

1. Nicole (Youth Services manager). Keith (head manager) has moved to Canal Winchester branch. He was here for about 10 years.
2. Summer Reading Challenge has begun. Read and get rewarded. Sign up in person or online. Rewards for adults and for kids.
3. Music, arts, science, and lots of animals to visit over the summer for the kids.
4. The New Culture Pass Program. Come and visit the library and get tickets for lots of museums and attractions in the area like the Zoo, Veterans Museum, and Art Museum.
5. 150th Year Anniversary: Come to the library and get a passport of activities to do – complete the activities for lots of prizes.
6. There are lots of classes being offered at the library: https://www.columbuslibrary.org/adult-education
7. If you are interested in mentoring and volunteering, please come and stop by the branch. There are lots of opportunities to volunteer helping people of all ages from kindergarten on up!!

Vice President Trevor Secord  tsecord@une.edu

National Night out will be at the North YMCA on August 1st (the first Tues.), more information will be presented at the July meeting and through social media sources.

Secretary Lou Bernard –  loubernard3@gmail.com

1. Attendance:

• Officers/Committee Chairs Present: EV, TS, LB, CL, MS, DVM, MB, SL, SB, AP, KG, DP
• Officers/Committee Chairs Absent: RW, AR, ER, KVM 
• Area Reps in Attendance: 1, 2, 5, 6, 11, 12
• Area Reps Absent: 3, 4, 7, 8, 9, 10, 13, 14 (Area 14 remain vacant )
• Total meeting attendance: 28

2. Reviewed minutes from May, no changes or corrections needed, minutes have been approved and were entered into the official records.
3. Attendance Sheet thru June: https://www.fpcivic.org/wordpress/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/2023-FPCA-Attendance-Thru-June.pdf

Treasurer Cheryl Lutman – cllutman17@gmail.com

1. We have received 54 household memberships through PayPal with about 3/4 of those paying that way also covering their fees – thank you!! The biggest chunk has been in the mail. We’ve received 160 through the post office, and have a stack of about 25 to process, with more coming in, though they have definitely slowed down.
2. The biggest expense was the purchase of the mulch ($3700, we had a profit of $1200), followed by the funds on our bulk mail permit.
3. Advertising revenue this month almost completely covered the cost to print the Forester, so thank you to our advertisers – and to Lowell and Rita for making all the changes to the ads as they’ve happened!
4. Total income last month:$13,020.17; expenses last month: $6863.98; Net gain: $6156.19
5. See the financial breakdown spreadsheet in the Forester.

Public Relations Mary Sguerra –  marysguerra@howardhanna.com

1. Nice turnout for bowling. Another bowling event will be on: Sept.17th, Sunday
2. The next community garage sale will be: Sept. 16th, Saturday
3. We are looking for someone to take over the 4th of July float for the FPCA. She will help, but needs someone to take the lead. Please contact Mary.
4. The last Thursday of each month, come meet us “Gather at Gabby’s” on Tamarack Circle; 6:30-8:30 pm.

Forester Editor Rita Woeste – forester_ed@fpcivic.org

Needs articles by Friday, June 16th.

Supplemental Security Daryl Van Mercetta – dvanmercetta@gmail.com, 

Katie Van Mercetta – kvanmercetta@gmail.com – Absent

Dan Yandrich (CPD Liaison Officer) –  dyandrich@columbuspolice.org 614.645.1418

See report in the Forester.

Business Representative Marty Biggs – Marlynabiggs@yahoo.com  Sheridan Landon – sheridanlandon@yahoo.com  Alan Ray – aray.bergahorn@gmail.com  – Absent

Business members have been updated in the Forester. If you see any mistakes, please contact Marty.

COMMITTEE REPORTS

Welcome Committee Chair Ellin Ray – eclaire1226@gmail.com – Absent

This committee has been temporarily put on hold in order to study the best way to fulfill this need.

Volunteer Coordinator Scott Biggs – volunteerfpca@gmail.com

1. Welcomed new neighbors and members from Sharon Woods Civic Association to our meeting.
2. Scott will make sure to get the word out about our new meeting format on social media and the website.
3. Scott purchased “Slow Down” yard signs for your yard. If you are interested, contact him directly.
4. Still looking for a volunteer to head up the Bikes-n-Trikes.
5. People from outside FP wanting to join. There is an Associate Membership level: 

• In the Constitution: Article III: Section B: Associate Member. Subsequent to full payment of dues in accordance with Article VI, any resident of Forest Park or, at the discretion of the Board, any resident of the Community may become an Associate Member of the FPCA upon agreeing to be bound by its Constitution and Bylaws. Associate Members shall be entitled to all rights of membership in the FPCA, except the right to vote or to become elected or appointed to the Board. 
• At this time, Associate Members do not get the Forester delivered to them.

Social Activities Andrea Philipsen andrea@yellowumbrellahomes.com

1. July 10th (Monday): 5-8pm: Dirty Franks Hotdog Food Truck – coming to the North YMCA parking lot. Please come hang out and meet your neighbors.
2. July 14th (Friday) 4-6pm: Shaved Ice Food Truck at the YMCA
3. Aug 11th (Friday) 8pm: Karaoke at Sequoia Bowl
4. Aug. 21st (Monday) 5-8 pm: Tortilla Mexican Street Food Truck at the YMCA 
5. Aug. 26th (Saturday) 7-8:30 pm: Concert on the Driveway at the Dove Household (5785 Lindenwood Rd). For more info, see “The Forest Park Gardener’s” article in this month’s Forester.
6. Aug. 28th (Monday) 8-10 am: Bushel and Bean Coffee Truck at the YMCA

NCC Representative Ken Gilbert – kgilbert78@att.net Trevor Secord – tsecord@une.edu

See column in this month’s Forester.

NCC Development Representative Ed Vanasdale – ed1vanasdale@gmail.com

Presented by Dave Paul. The city is now having open house discussions about the rest of the Route 161 Roundabout program: they are planning more roundabouts around the 161 access roads. The Open House date is June 29th (Thursday) Karl Library 11-1 and 4:30-6:30. The city website says the completion date for the Maple Canyon portion to be Fall ‘23.

Link to the official letter (online link): https://www.fpcivic.org/wordpress/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/Notification-Letter.pdf

Link to the Comment Form (online link): https://www.fpcivic.org/wordpress/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/Comment-Form.pdf

Website Administrator Scott Biggs – volunteerfpca@gmail.com Dave Paul – dwpaul@fpcivic.org  

Our website is always – always being updated with new and upcoming info! Please check it out!!

OLD BUSINESS

None

NEW BUSINESS/ANNOUNCEMENTS/IDEAS

Lots of questions about speeding/speed bumps and street lights. Those neighbors were invited to come and discuss the issue, but none showed up. If it is important to you, you need to come an make your voice/opinion known.

Meeting adjourned at 8:13 PM

Meeting minutes submitted by Lou Bernard, Secretary, FPCA

Forest Park Civic Association Meeting

Date: 09 May 2023

Location: Epworth United Methodist Church

Meeting called to order @ 7:00 PM by Ed Vanasdale 

The Pledge of Allegiance was recited.

Attendance was taken via role call.

OFFICER REPORTS

President Ed Vanasdale evanasdale@insight.rr.com

1. Guest Speaker: Ray Leard “The Compost Guy”:

• They operate a curbside or drop off compost for the last 10 years.
• Drop off at farmer’s markets around neighborhoods.
• 6 weeks free promo offer. They are looking for a Northland captain/s – there are benefits
• When you renew your membership, you get a free 7# bucket of compost. 740-249-5427
• https://www.thecompostexchange.com/

2. Reminder: Do not use the blue boxes outside the post offices. Many checks have been stolen, please use the boxes inside to be safe.
3. The idea of street lights has been brought to our attention. If you are interested please contact Ed. He is trying to ascertain if there is enough interest in them.
4. There is interest brewing about starting walking, running, and biking groups. Please check the Facebook page and the Forester for more info.
5. “Forest Park Night at Gabby’s” every last Thursday of the month. Please join us!
6. There is interest in the Block Watch–but we are in need of someone who is willing to head up the Block Watch. Please contact Ed if you are interested

Vice President Trevor Secord tsecord@une.edu Absent

1. Trevor apologizes for not being able to make tonight‘s meeting in person. He has connected with local PD and confirmed our participation in the National Night Out. YMCA will partner with us again and host a block party on that evening. He will be filling out the Grant application for funding that is due this week as well.
2. He was glad to help out on Saturday with the mulch delivery. Thank you Scott so much for putting that together.

Secretary Lou Bernard – loubernard3@gmail.com

1. Attendance:

• Officers/Committee Chairs Present: EV, LB, MS, RW, DVM, KVM, SL, SB, AP, KG, 
• Officers/Committee Chairs Absent: TS, CL, MB, AR, ER, DP 
• Area Reps in Attendance: 1, 2, 5, 7, 9, 10, 12, 13
• Area Reps Absent: 3, 4, 6, 8, 11, 14 (Area 14 remains vacant )
• Total meeting attendance: 30

2. Reviewed minutes from April, no changes or corrections were needed. A vote was taken to approve minutes. Minutes passed and are entered into the official record.

Treasurer Cheryl Lutman – cllutman17@gmail.com

1. In March, we received $385, and in April $3,210 through PayPal for the mulch sale, and on May 1st, deposited an additional $2205. That’s a gross of $5800! The mulch cost us $3767.40. Most everyone paid their PayPal fees, but there was $47.39 not covered. Before any additional expenses we made $1985.21!
2. Outside of mulch sales, we received 7 household memberships (one person paid both this year and last, so thank you!) Gabby’s Tavern renewed their business membership and we also received business memberships from Yellow Umbrella Real Estate and Sherrie Johnson-Dantz (no business name listed).
3. Our only expenses were Forester Printing and the printing of the household data sheets.
4. There will be a mailing expense coming up this week.

Public Relations Mary Sguerra – marysguerra@howardhanna.com

We have a couple events this month – 

1. FPCA Community Garage Sale is Saturday, May 20th – Maps with listings of those participating will be available at the FP Entrances on Karl Rd. from 9 – 10:30 a.m. An ad was placed in the Dispatch to run a few days ahead of the event. We are looking for volunteers to hand out the fliers.
2. FPCA Bowling Day is Saturday, May 20th from Noon – 3pm For $15/person the Forest Park price includes shoes rental & 2 hours of bowling fun! We’d like to have a few door prizes to give away – Please contact me if you know anyone who would like to donate an item, gift card, etc.
3. Forest Park Night at Gabby’s – Please bring a side dish/dessert to share. They will be supplying the meat then stay and enjoy the music by the Alexander Band – May 27th (6 pm). 
4. We are still looking for someone to head-up the volunteers for the upcoming 4th of July float.

Forester Editor’s Rita Woeste – forester_ed@fpcivic.org

1. June Forester will be delivered. Still looking for someone to cover East Karl Rd.
2. May 19th is the deadline for articles and ads for the June edition.
3. Vote was taken to buy more bags for the Forester.
4. We are looking for a volunteer to help judge the Bikes-n-Trikes competition on the morning of the July 4th parade. Please contact Rita.
5. We are looking for volunteers to help run the Beautification Competition of Forest Park. Please contact Rita.

Supplemental Security Daryl Van Mercetta – dvanmercetta@gmail.com, 

 Katie Van Mercetta – kvanmercetta@gmail.com

Dan Yandrich (CPD Liaison Officer) dyandrich@columbuspolice.org 614.645.1418

1. From Officer D. Yandrich – CPD is still not towing for parking infractions. Semi parking complaints still coming in, he has  been monitoring Tamarack circle and in front of 1700 Morse Rd. for them. Tickets are typically written if still there after an hour. Concerns about speeding have been raised along Karl Rd. typically third shift hours. This information was passed onto the third shift supervisor. Still seeing a large amount of stolen cars coming from the apartments along Red Robin east of Karl Rd. Officer Yandrich attended a career day at 2100 Morse Rd., Columbus Bilingual Academy North. If residents have houses that back up to Woodward Park and observe vehicles in the park after hours, the park closes at 11pm please call that into CPD. We are getting some after hours activity that needs to be stopped, drinking shots fired, etc.
2. Officer Mills of Security Company: Reported about 20 kids were fighting near Forest Park Nature Preserve May 4th around 5:30 pm. The police were called and the kids dispersed.
3. If you notice any groups of cars/motorcycles gathering that may lead to street racing, please call the police immediately 614.645.4545. They are trying to stop the street racing before they get started.

Business Representative Marty Biggs – Marlynabiggs@yahoo.com Absent  

Sheridan Landin – sheridanlandon@yahoo.com Alan Ray – aray.bergahorn@gmail.com Absent

1. Gabby’s Tavern renewed their business membership and we also received business memberships from Yellow Umbrella Real Estate and Sherrie Johnson-Dantz (no business name listed). 
2. We presented 2 companies with honorary business memberships due to their assistance with deliveries for the mulch sale: Martins Dumpster Hauling Services and Moegling Home Remodeling

COMMITTEE REPORTS

Welcome Committee Chair Ellin Ray – eclaire1226@gmail.com Absent

This committee has been temporarily put on hold in order to study the best way to fulfill this need.

Volunteer Coordinator Scott Biggs – volunteerfpca@gmail.com

1. Thank you to our Membership Packet volunteers.

• A small group of volunteers gathered April 23 to prepare 2,870 membership envelopes for our 2023 FPCA Membership Drive. Each household in Forest Park received a Membership Form, mailing envelope and the May Forester Newsletter in their mailbox. The FPCA is entirely run by volunteers, but we do have many expenses. Memberships are our primary revenue source and allow us to provide services, pay for administrative costs, and plan events for the community. This makes the membership package preparation and mailing our single most important service of the year. Thank you to Schoedinger Funeral Services on Karl Rd. for providing its large reception room and providing snacks for the group.
• We extend our gratitude to the following volunteers who devoted their Saturday to serving our community: Saundra K. Abrams, Scott Biggs, Andy Hunt, Patty Hunt, Eileen Kunkler, Dave Paul, Linda Ridenour, Mary Sguerra, Mike Stone, Randy Via, and Diane Wagner. Special thanks to Dave Paul, Mary Sguerra, and Rita Woeste for their extensive preparation of materials. And thanks to Andy Hunt, Cheryl Lutman, Mike Stone and Scott Biggs for delivering the many bags of envelopes to the USPS bulk mail facility.

2. Thank you to Candy Jordan, our very first member of 2023-24! Candy joined online immediately after she received her membership package in the mail. Many more people have joined or renewed their memberships already by mail or online at fpcivic.org.
3. Thank you to our Mulch Sale volunteers! 

• Our first FPCA Mulch Sale was a big success. Thank you to the 80+ households that ordered mulch. And thanks to the volunteers who donated a Saturday to deliver more than 2,200 bags of mulch across Forest Park East and West. The sale was a good source of revenue and will help us plan and host many community events and programs this year.
• Sandra Santos and Homer Muniz of Martin’s Dumpster Hauling Services brought their big trailer and the Forest Park East residents worked all day to serve their community. Contact Martin’s Dumpster Hauling Services at 614-600-9426
• Justin Moegling of Forest Park West and Mike Bey of Moegling Home Remodeling brought a large trailer and delivered mulch to homes across the neighborhood. Contact Moegling Home Remodeling at justin.moegling@gmail.com for your remodeling needs.
• Mary Sguerra of Howard Hanna Real Estate Services worked all day and also donated $200 in mulch for the landscaping islands at Sandalwood Blvd. and Karl Rd.
• Special thanks to the following volunteers who donated their muscles and vehicles and loaded and delivered mulch for many hours: Scott Biggs, Marty Biggs, Pam Curry, Cheryl Lutman, Trevor Secord, Rita Woeste, Darryl Van Mercetta, Ed Uppenkamp, Pat Kelly, Dan Purdy, Tyler Miller, Mike Stone and Andy Hunt. 

Social Activities Coordinator Andrea Philipsen andrea@yellowumbrellahomes.com

1. Andrea just took over the Social Activities Coordinator position. She has a meeting with Sherrie from YMCA on May 10th to discuss upcoming programming. 
2. She presented lots of tentative ideas. Will come back next month with more definite plans.

NCC Representative Ken Gilbert – kgilbert78@att.net Trevor Secord – tsecord@une.edu

Please read the NCC Report in the month’s Forester.

NCC Development Representative Ed Vanasdale – evanasdale@insight.rr.com 

They heard 3 cases, but only 2 are in our area:

• Case #1 Application for special permit to allow the installation and maintenance of a portable building on the northwest corner of the site, in the form of a self-contained “mobile pop-up store” to accept and process DHL shipments from customers; permit for a period not to exceed 2 years) DHL Express US, 5700 Columbus Square, 43231 • The Committee approved (14-1 w/ 1 abstention) a motion (by SWCA, second by KWPCA) to RECOMMEND APPROVAL of the application.
• Case #2 Application to rezone the use of the site for a used motor vehicle dealership; (TABLED in February 2023) 5357 Cleveland Ave, 43229. • The Committee approved (15-0 w/ 1 abstention) a motion (by FPCA, second by PCHA) to RECOMMEND DISAPPROVAL of the application. 

Website Administrator Scott Biggs – volunteerfpca@gmail.com Dave Paul – dwpaul@fpcivic.org 

Please check it out! Lots of good info. We are continuing to promote ourselves and our activities on Facebook, Nextdoor, and the website. Check us out, stay informed!!

OLD BUSINESS  – None

NEW BUSINESS/ANNOUNCEMENTS/IDEAS

Meeting adjourned at 8:33 PM

Meeting minutes submitted by Lou Bernard, Secretary, FPCA

Forest Park Civic Association Meeting

Date: 09 Apr 2023

OFFICER REPORTS

President’s Report  Ed Vanasdale ed1vanasdale@gmail.com

Call to Order

Pledge of Allegiance

Attendance by Roll Call

Discussed the NCC Banquet, which will be held on April 20, 2023 to honor the volunteers of Forest Park and the surrounding neighborhoods.

 Stuffing of the May Forester will be held on April 22, 2023 at 1:30pm at Schoedinger Funeral Home. They have updated their hours so they are no longer open on Saturday but are opening specifically for the Civic Association. As usual, they will provide soft drinks, water, and cookies. The Civic Association will provide pizza for all the volunteers.

Beginning April 17, 2023, the north side of Karl Road at 161 will be closed for 90 days while the city does construction and installs a mini roundabout. 

Vice President’s Report Trevor Secord tsecord@une.edu – Absent

Secretary’s Report  Lou Bernard loubernard3@gmail.com – Absent

Katie Van Mercetta filled in and took attendance:

1. Officers/Committee Chairs Present: EV, RW, MS, DVM, KVM, SL, SB, KG, DP
2. Officers/Committee Chairs Absent: TS, CL, LB, SP (deceased), MB, AR, ER
3. Area Reps in Attendance: 2, 3, 4, 5, 9, 11, 12, 13
4. Area Reps Absent: 1, 6, 7, 8, 10, 14 (area 14 remains vacant)
5. We had two new area rep volunteers: 
   1. Suzanne Conway for Area 4
   2. Mark Bell for Area 13 

Total people in attendance: 28

Minutes from March were reviewed, approved, and voted into the official record.

Treasurer’s Report  Cheryl Lutman cllutman17@gmail.com – Absent

1) Income for the month: $1,560.17

2) Expenses for the month:  $3,776.30

3) Above or below budget for the year:

4) Number of new members (households and businesses) for the month: 4 new household membership and 3 new business memberships

5) Any other notes of interest (i.e. committee chairs need to let you know about budget amounts needed):

Please see the Treasurer’s Report in the Forester. 

1)    It’s the year-end report.  We ended the year in the black, in terms of income vs expenses, but that was because we trimmed expenses.  The good news:

       4 new household memberships

       3 new business memberships – Circle Smoke Shop, Circle Drive Thru and Sequoia Pro-Bowl.

       The only unanticipated expense was the printing of the envelopes for the annual mailing.  That added $965 to our expenses for this year that should have been on next year.

       People are buying mulch!! 

2)  A Chart!!  I did a pie chart that showed what our expenses were – the largest expense is the Forester.  Followed by Security, then Membership and Beautification.  The “Other” category includes Office Expenses, Committees and the Garage Sale.  I hope this helps our members visualize where the money goes.  Having figured out how to do them in Office365 online (so I don’t have my full desktop Excel with all the fun options you get), I’m happy to create others, if you feel they’d be beneficial.  Let me know what you’d like to see!

Public Relations Report  Mary Sguerra Mary.Sguerra@HERrealtors.com

1. Garage Sale: May 20, 2023
2. Bowling Party at Sequoia Lanes: May 20, 2023 from 12pm – 3pm. 
3. Gabby’s Night is Saturday, May 27, 2023 at 6:30pm
4. Ads continue to come in so let us know if you or anyone you know wants a business membership.

We hope to see you at all the upcoming events!

Forester Editor’s Report  Rita Woeste forester_ed@fpcivic.org

1. Articles are due Friday, April 14, 2023.
2. We have extra Foresters from April’s delivery so if there are any local businesses who want to showcase them, please let us know. 
3. Columbus Square dropped their ad in the Forester so we have a spot to fill.
4. The person who covers the east side of Karl is no longer available to deliver so volunteers are needed for about 40 in that area and area 13 still does not have a deliverer. Please reach out if interested.
5. Someone claimed the lucky ticket in Forester Park East so they will be receiving a gift card. No one has come forward from Forest Park West yet.
6. If any changes are needed to the contacts listed in the Forester, please email forester_ed@fpcivic.org.

Supplemental Security Report  Daryl Van Mercetta dvanmercetta@gmail.com, Katie Van Mercetta kvanmercetta@gmail.com Dan Yandrich (CPD Liaison Officer) dyandrich@columbuspolice.org

1. There have been no house checks in the past month but they’re expected to pick up next month.
2. We are researching security companies to shop around for pricing and coverage and more information will be forthcoming. 
3. No report from Officer Yandrich

Business Representative Marty Biggs Marlynabiggs@yahoo.com – Absent; Sheridan Landin sheridanlandon@yahoo.com; Alan Ray  aray.bergahorn@gmail.com  – Absent

1. Our business reps have been talking to CalFit, the YMCA, and 20th Century Care Center as potential new business members.

COMMITTEE REPORTS

Welcome Committee Chair  Ellin Ray  eclaire1226@gmail.com – Absent

No report

Volunteer Coordinator  Scott Biggs  volunteerfpca@gmail.com

1. The Mulch Sale is going well with 176 total orders to date totaling $2,245.00 worth of mulch sold and $898 revenue for the Civic Association. We still have 2 weeks left to order; April 23rd is the last day.
2. We are looking for volunteers for the mulch delivery on May 6, 2023 from 9am – noon. 
3. Welcome to our new volunteers!

1. Suzanne Conway is volunteering for Area 4 in Forest Park West
2. Mark Bell is volunteering for Area 13 in Forest Park East
3. Andrea Philipsen is volunteering to be our new Social Committee Chair

Social Activities Report  

1. Andrea Philipsen volunteered and was voted in as our new Committee Chair.
2. She is a Columbus native and is moving from Westerville to Forest Park next month. She was a social chair for her neighborhood and organized social events for her neighborhood and friend group totaling 40+ per year and about 8-10 for her old neighborhood. She looks forward to bringing her connections, experience, and enthusiasm to Forest Park and is open to any ideas or feedback from the neighborhood. 

Welcome to the Forest Park Civic Association!

NCC Representative  Ken Gilbert kgilbert78@att.net

1. We have several liaisons moving on, including our liaison Alfred.
2. There is an upcoming NCC banquet on April 20, 2023 and more information can be found on the NCC’s website.
3. The NCC is looking for a Parade Committee from each neighborhood to help organize.
4. The next meeting is going to be held April 15, 2023 at Epworth Church and will be available remotely via Zoom. More information can be found on NCC’s website.

Please see the article from Ken Gilbert for more information.

NCC Development Representative Ed Vanasdale ed1vanasdale@gmail.com

The co-chairs are Dave Paul and Bill Logan (from Woodland Park Civic Association). They discussed five cases:

1. Hamilton Road – there is a laser tag facility that they are wanting to turn into a basketball and pickleball court.
2. 1289 East Dublin-Granville Road: aka the old Red Carpet Inn – they asked for a counsel variance to operate as a residential care facility under the conditions that they have to meet the building codes and they are the only company allowed to operate as such in this location (so the zoning will remain as a hotel/motel and cannot be converted to residential living).
3. Caprese Bowling Alley – the National Church Residence purchased it and wants to create a 5 story building housing 145 units. This was approved but cannot exceed 145 units.
4. An Automobile Repair shop on Karl: located at Morse and Karl – requested the ability to add storage containers. The matter was tabled for future discussion as the shop had been written up for several violations, including too many unregistered vehicles, too much debris, and not maintaining a 20 foot clearance around the property.
5. 2400 East Dublin-Granville Road – it’s a hookah bar that requested to classify a food truck as a “portable shed” so it could remain in front of the establishment. The board recommended disapproval.

Website Administrator  Scott Biggs  volunteerfpca@gmail.com  Dave Paul dwpaul@fpcivic.org  

Please check it out! Lots of good info.

1. Forms have been added and updated so they can be easily exported for various needs.
2. Events have been updated – check out the site for more information!

New Business/Announcements/Ideas  

1. The City is currently under a court order to replace handicap ramps because the ramps they installed a few years ago are not up to code so construction will be occurring in our neighborhood.
2. The YMCA purchased the neighboring Karl Road Christian Church property. The intentions behind the acquisition are unknown and no zoning actions have been taken.
3. Laura proposed a running/walking club and will provide more information for the Forester.
4. Ed discussed having the following guests attend a future meeting:
   1. AEP: recent power outages
   2. Department of Public Service: recent removal/addition to trees in the hellstrip
   3. Department of Forestry
   4. Food Waste Recycling Program Representative

Meeting adjourned at 8:00pm.

Minutes submitted by Katie VanMercetta (a big thank you from Lou Bernard)

Forest Park Civic Association Meeting

Date: 14 Mar 2023

Location: Epworth United Methodist Church

Meeting called to order @ 7:05 PM by Ed Vanasdale 

The Pledge of Allegiance was recited.

Attendance was taken via role call.

OFFICER REPORTS

President Ed Vanasdale evanasdale@insight.rr.com

1. Discussed power outage last week. A large oak tree took out a major power line, 6 poles, and the back of a home. There was discussion about having AEP come to discuss general things to do in case of a power outage and other preventative measures. Ed will make calls to get a rep here as a guest speaker.
2. Cheryl Lutman discussed budget short falls and ways to address them. We are currently $2300 in the hole. 2800 homes in FP, only 480 joined. We are going to run with the budget having a slight deficit, and hoping to get more households. A motion was put forth, voted on, and passed that the membership fee will be raised to $30 for this year forward.
3. The question about continuing to allow Areas 13 & 14 to participate in the FPCA. They have not had a rep since anyone can remember. This will be discussed at the next meeting when membership numbers and cost involved in keeping them on, will be presented.
4. Due to budget and delivery concerns, the Welcome Folder will be put on hiatus. There will soon be a meeting to discuss the future upgrade of the Welcome Folder.

Vice President Trevor Secord  tsecord@une.edu      See NCC Rep Report

Secretary Lou Bernard –  loubernard3@gmail.com

1. Attendance:

• Officers/Committee Chairs Present: EV, TS, LB, CL, MS, RW, DVM, KVM, MB, SB, KG, DP
• Officers/Committee Chairs Absent: FQ, AR, SL, ER (Social Activities remains vacant)
• Area Reps in Attendance: 1, 2, 5, 6, 7, 9, 11
• Area Reps Absent: 3, 4, 8, 10, 12, 13, 14 (Areas 4, 13 and 14 remain vacant )

2. Minutes from February were reviewed, approved, and voted into the official record.

Treasurer Cheryl Lutman – cllutman17@gmail.com

1. Please see the Treasurer’s report in this month’s Forester.  We received 6 household memberships and 4 business memberships – Schoedinger Funeral Home, Massey’s Pizza, Karl Road Christian Church and Cindy Fenstermaker.
2. Expenses were limited to our security patrols.
3. Right now, we have a surplus.  We have the check written to Insley Printing for $985 for the March Forester clearing in early March, plus just paid for three more security patrols – $562.  We also need to renew our PO Box later this month, and that is $248
4. So far in March, we have one household membership and Mary S. renewed her business membership.  Plus, we have advertisers checks of $770 to deposit.
5. Cheryl has prepared and filed our 990-PF last week.  No taxes were due.
6. Our new advertising manager, Lowell Lutman, went through all the advertising information received, and is reaching out to the advertisers to find out about the next issue.  We will be emailing the invoices and his email for this purpose is fpca.newsletter.ad.manager@gmail.com.  Please direct anyone making inquiries there.  All payments should be sent to:

Forest Park Civic Association

Attn:  Advertising Manager

PO Box 29160

Columbus, OH  43229

Public Relations Mary Sguerra –  marysguerra@howardhanna.com

1. May 20th FP Garage Sale.
2. May 20th FP Bowling Party from 12-3 pm, $15/person to bowl, free shoes, 3 hours of bowling at Sequoia Lanes. There will be another day for a bowling party on September 17th.
3. 3 new business memberships! Sequoia is one of them!! Circle Drive Thru and Circle SMoke Shop and Gabby’s are now business members.

Forester Editor’s Rita Woeste – forester_ed@fpcivic.org

1. Articles are due by Friday the 17th.
2. There is a lucky ticket in one bag for FP East and FP West. The ticket entitles you to a gift card, please contact Rita.
3. Membership Month in May. April 22nd, Saturday will be the stuffing day for this year’s membership drive.
4. Looking for people to help deliver Foresters.

Supplemental Security Daryl Van Mercetta – dvanmercetta@gmail.com, 

  Katie Van Mercetta – kvanmercetta@gmail.com Dan Yandrich (CPD Liaison Officer)   

     dyandrich@columbuspolice.org 614.645.1418

1. Supplemental Security continues to operate in the neighborhood. 2 house checks this month. 
2. Stay vigilant and stay in contact with your neighbors.
3. No report from Officer Yandrich.

Business Representative Marty Biggs – Marlynabiggs@yahoo.com  Sheridan Landin – sheridanlandon@yahoo.com– Absent    Alan Ray – aray.bergahorn@gmail.com– Absent  

No Report

COMMITTEE REPORTS

Welcome Committee Chair Ellin Ray – eclaire1226@gmail.com – Absent

There are welcome folders to pass out. Area reps need to attend meetings to get the folders to pass out to our new neighbors.

Volunteer Coordinator Scott Biggs – volunteerfpca@gmail.com

1. The Library and Rec Center have been contacted about becoming regular contributors to the Forester. No word back from them.
2. Working with Dave Paul to update our FP database of members and households.
3. Mulch Sale/Fundraiser: Ohio Mulch will sell us mulch at a discounted price and then we sell it to residents for a fundraiser. A vote was taken and there will be the first annual FP Mulch Sale.
4. Thanks to all those residents helping to maintain the flower boxes at the entrances to the neighborhood.
5. We have a potential member to become Area 4 Rep. That will be confirmed by next week.
6. Thanks to all volunteers and reps you are doing great.

Social Activities Vacant – No Report

NCC Representative Ken Gilbert – kgilbert78@att.net Trevor Secord – tsecord@une.edu

See separate article in the Forester

NCC Development Representative Ed Vanasdale – evanasdale@insight.rr.com 

4 cases were heard. But only one near or concerning Forest Park:

Application to reduce the building setback from 110 feet from R/W to 12 feet from the future right of way 

Horizon Science Academy Inc., 2350 Morse Rd, 43229

• The Committee approved (16-0) a motion (by FPCA/BCCA) to RECOMMEND APPROVAL WITH ONE (1) CONDITION:

• That the text of the Statement of Support and the site plan be revised to reflect that the variance requested is modified, from 12′ from the future R/W, to 70′ from the existing R/W with approval of a waiver of Right of Way Dedication recommended by the Division of Traffic Management.

Website Administrator Scott Biggs – volunteerfpca@gmail.com Dave Paul – dwpaul@fpcivic.org  

The website has been updated, and old links have been fixed. If you have any problems using or accessing anything on the website, please let us know.

OLD BUSINESS

The last Thursday of every month, various FPCA officers, committee chairs, and reps will be meeting at Gabby’s at Tamarack Circle for conversation and cheer. Come and meet the FPCA leadership and share your good ideas and some goodwill. We will meet from around 6:30-8:30. We are hoping to make this a regular happening, and we look forward to seeing you. 

NEW BUSINESS/ANNOUNCEMENTS/IDEAS

Meeting adjourned at 8:13 PM

Meeting minutes submitted by Lou Bernard, Secretary, FPCA

Forest Park Civic Association Meeting

Date: 14 Feb 2023

Location: Epworth United Methodist Church

Meeting called to order @ 7:02PM by Ed Vanasdale 

The Pledge of Allegiance was recited.

Attendance was taken via role call.

OFFICER REPORTS

President’s Report   Ed Vanasdale evanasdale@insight.rr.com

1. Elections were held for the positions of President, Vice President, Secretary, and Treasurer. The slate of candidates included Ed Vanasdale (P), Trevor Secord (VP), Lou Bernard (S), and Cheryl Lutman (T). All ran unopposed, and were reelected. Assistant City Attorney, Sarah Pomeroy, joined the meeting via Zoom and swore in all officers, committee chairs, and area reps who were present.
2. Ed thanked all who attended the different meetings about the hotel issue. They went down to the meeting of the Development Commission of the City of Columbus. The committee suggested the Shelter Bd. table the issue until they can come back with a new proposal that will answer the serious concerns the commission had. The FPCA and NCC reps will be back at the future meetings to stand up for our neighborhood!! Your membership dollars at work!

Vice President’s Report  Trevor Secord  tsecord@une.edu

Gave NCC Report

Secretary’s Report Lou Bernard –  loubernard3@gmail.com

1. Attendance:

• Officers/Committee Chairs Present: EV, TS, LB, CL, MS, RW, DVM, MB, SL, SB, DP
• Officers/Committee Chairs Absent: FQ, AR, ER, KG, KVM 
• Area Reps in Attendance: 1, 2, 5, 6, 7, 9, 11
• Area Reps Absent: 3, 4, 8, 10, 12, 13, 14 (Areas 4, 13 and 14 remain vacant )
• 23 people in attendance/Guest Speaker: City Attorney Sarah Pomeroy

2. Reviewed and approved minutes from the January meeting.

Treasurer’s Report  Cheryl Lutman – cllutman17@gmail.com

1. 3 new household memberships
2. Shout out to the FP Business Reps–2 new business memberships – Forest Park Christian School and Krieger Ford. Good work to our business membership team! And, to give a quick update, in February, we received business memberships from Cindy Fenstermaker, Massey’s Pizza and Karl Road Christian Church.
3. At the end of January, we were $250 over budget from what was projected for business memberships. With the three new ones, we are $475 over! That definitely helps with our household membership shortfall of $900.
4. Expenses are greatly reduced, with the final security patrols being paid and no payments for Forester Printing. We are currently positive cash flow to the tune of $3,705.78. Remaining expenses that I am aware of for fiscal 2023 (ends March 31st), are the renewal of our post office box for approximately $232. April Forester will be a hard copy and delivered. We probably want to carry over about $2,800 into the next budget year (April 1st) as we’ll need to renew our bulk mail permit and pay for the printing of the household data sheets before the membership income starts rolling.
5. As a final note, Cheryl’s husband is standing by to take over the advertising job. We haven’t heard anything from anyone (though Massey’s did pay $40 for an ad).

Public Relations Report Mary Sguerra – Mary.Sguerra@HERrealtors.com  

1. The FP Spring Garage Sale date is being finalized and will be released soon.
2. There are not many concerns coming in from area residents, so that is good.
3. Long time resident and FPCA Volunteer Frank Tolbard passed away earlier this month. See the article in this Forester.

Forester Editor’s Report  Rita Woeste – forester_ed@fpcivic.org

1. DUE date for March Forester items is Friday February 17. Can’t stress enough need for articles/ads/photos/news  in a timely manner.
2. Could we find a volunteer who might want to contact either local schools or churches for local news from them (I don’t have time to do it)?  
3. Flyer/PDF of 2023 Meeting & Due dates concerning the Forester were emailed to the FPCA list.
4. NEED a decision this week on whether we will print the April Forester so that the printer has time to order paper, etc…
5. Paul, our Printer is requesting: if they are planning on printing the envelopes , for membership drive, I will need some advanced notice to insure I have the envelopes – still hard to get.
6. Need substitute delivery person to handle FPWest, Ironwood Drive for the month of March 56 homes total
7. Looking for NEW delivery person to handle 12 homes FPEast, on Rolling Rock Court, Area 13
8. Looking for NEW delivery person to handle FPEast, Northcliff Loop East, West & North, 37 homes, Area 10
9. And possibly, NEW delivery person needed in FPWest, for Pegwood Court & Drive, 38 homes, Area 2

Supplemental Security Report  Daryl Van Mercetta – dvanmercetta@gmail.com, 

  Katie Van Mercetta – kvanmercetta@gmail.com Dan Yandrich (CPD Liaison Officer)   

     dyandrich@columbuspolice.org 614.645.1418     See Officer Dandrich’s Report in this issue.

Business Representative  Marty Biggs – Marlynabiggs@yahoo.com  Sheridan Landin – sheridanlandon@yahoo.com  Alan Ray – aray.bergahorn@gmail.com  

1. Massey’s Pizza is now a business member and donated gift cards to be used as awards by the FPCA.
2. Cal-Fit Center is seriously considering becoming a member.
3. Krieger Ford has become a member, as well.

COMMITTEE REPORTS

Welcome Committee Chair Ellin Ray – eclaire1226@gmail.com 

Welcome folders were passed out to the Reps present.

Volunteer Coordinator Scott Biggs – volunteerfpca@gmail.com

1. Thank you to Rev. Jennifer Kimball Casto of Epworth UMC for their membership and the use of the church as our meeting space.
2. We have a new official FPCA Facebook page, Twitter, and Instagram accounts. Check us out on social media.

Social Activities Report Vacant

NCC Representative  Ken Gilbert – kgilbert78@att.net

See the report in article in this Forester.

NCC Development Representative Ed Vanasdale – evanasdale@insight.rr.com 

There were 2 cases heard this month, but only one (1) case pertains to FP:

Application to permit the use of a former hotel property containing 82 units for long-term, permanent supportive housing under lease to Homefull; concurrent variances to maintain an existing vehicular easement across the property, and to maintain the existing billboard on the site; and to reduce required parking spaces to the existing 106 from the 123 required without variance for this use. Address: 1289 E Dublin-Granville Rd, 43229 • The Committee approved (15-0) RECOMMEND DISAPPROVAL of the applications.

Website Administrator Scott Biggs – volunteerfpca@gmail.com Dave Paul – dwpaul@fpcivic.org  

OLD BUSINESS   No Report

NEW BUSINESS/ANNOUNCEMENTS/IDEAS

The idea was discussed to have a monthly informal get together at Gabby’s. It would give residents a chance to meet and talk with the FPCA officers, committee chairs, and reps. Possible dates are being discussed. Look for more in the future.

Meeting adjourned at 8:14 PM

Meeting minutes submitted by Lou Bernard, Secretary, FPCA

Forest Park Civic Association Meeting

January 10, 2023 (condensed notes, secretary not present)

Pledge allegiance 7:32pm 

Roll call Not here – secretary, past president, welcome committee chair, forest park east Reps 6,8,10 

NOTE: At this meeting, the Community Shelter Board presented its ideas on taking over the old hotel on 1289 E Dublin Granville Rd. location. More info on page 1 of this edition.

1. President made the group aware that the presentation today is special and there is a joint meeting. Questions will be after the presentation and normal business will be after presentation 
2. Lianna Carter director at Community shelter board Partner agencies are present as well. Conversation is about 1289 E Dublin Granville rd. Location. Presentation is provided and will be attached. 
3. Discussion was had from 8pm -9pm 
4. Normal business of the FPCA was tabled to the next meeting. 

Motion To adjourn by Ken Gilbert, seconded by Cheryl Lutman at 9:06pm