FOREST PARK CIVIC ASSOCIATION FEBRUARY MEETING

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Date: 10 Feb 2026

Location: Epworth United Methodist Church

Meeting called to order @ 7:04 PM by Ashley Howard, Quentin Monden

The Pledge of Allegiance was recited.

Attendance was taken via roll call.

OFFICER REPORTS

President Quentin Monden – quentinmonden@fpcivic.org, Ashley Howard – ashleyhoward@fpcivic.org

See report in Forester

Guest Speaker: Hugo Barragan, Community Outreach Coordinator for the Franklin County Auditor.

A surprise guest speaker. If you’re looking for property tax relief, you have until March 31st to file an appeal regarding your current property valuation. No appointments are necessary, so you can simply walk in to start the process; just be sure to bring supporting evidence like photos of needed repairs, recent sales data from your neighborhood, or a professional appraisal. It’s a great opportunity to ensure your tax bill accurately reflects your home’s true condition and value.

You can reach Hugo at (c) 614.499.3570 or email him at hugo.barragan1@franklincountyohio.gov

Vice President  Mark Bell – markbell@fpcivic.org 

Please shovel your sidewalks in front of your house and help out our neighbors who are walking. A FP neighbor was hit by a car walking in the street because the sidewalks were covered. Also, shovel out in front of our storm drains on the street.

Secretary Lou Bernard – secretary@fpcivic.org

  1. Attendance:
  • Officers/Committee Chairs Present: AH, QM, MB, LB, CL, MSg, RW, DVM, EV, SL, MSt, KG, SB
  • Officers/Committee Chairs Absent: KVM, DP, LV
  • Area Reps in Attendance: 1, 2, 4, 5, 7, 9, 11, 13
  • Area Reps Absent: 3, 6, 8, 10, 12, 14 (6, 8, and 14 are VACANT)
  • Total meeting attendance: 34
  1. Reviewed minutes from Jan., no changes or corrections needed, minutes have been approved and were entered into the official records.
  2. Attendance Sheet thru Feb.: Online
  3. A new email listserve/Google Group address for area reps has been created to be used by officers and committee chairs.

Treasurer Cheryl Lutman – cheryllutman@fpcivic.org

  1. We are 7 memberships short of our goal for the fiscal year ending March 31st.  
  2. We are off our budgeted income by $3,680. However, we have kept expenses in line, and are under by about $8,200.  
  3. There will be a few expenses for the membership mailing that will come through in March, plus we will have our normal expenses for the Forester and the security patrols.
  4. 2026 Budget Meeting will be held on Saturday, February 28, 2026 at 10:00 AM at COhatch Worthington – 752 High St, Columbus, OH 43085.

Public Relations Officer Mary Sguerra – marysguerra@fpcivic.org

Looking ahead for our Forest Park Spring Community Garage Sale – Please save the date May 16th.

ForesterEditor Rita Woeste – forester@fpcivic.org

  1. Hoping for the best weather for safer delivery of the Forester. 
  2. The March deadline for Forester entries is Wednesday, Feb 18th. We can get it to the printer and back to stuffers by Feb 27th. The plan is to have Foresters in homes by Sunday March 8th. We are looking for articles.
  3. We should review the suggestions provided by neighbors during the December information meeting to identify new topics for our upcoming articles. 
  4. The April issue will go out with a membership form, but Easter is April 5th, the first weekend of April. The plan is to have the deadline for articles on March 25th. 
  5. Membership stuffing with membership form will take place Saturday April 11th, at Schoedinger. 

Supplemental Security Officer Daryl Van Mercetta – darylvanmercetta@fpcivic.org, Katie Van Mercetta – kvanmercetta@fpcivic.org

  1. Relatively quiet from a supplemental security stand point. 
  2. Officer Yandrich also confirmed crime is down this time of the year. 
  3. One of the most common complaints in the city is that people are parking in the street beyond the snowbanks, causing significant frustration for residents. 
  4. Do not leave your car running unattended to warm up in cold weather.
  5. Officer Yandrich is stepping down, and Officer Duane Hicks (DHicks@columbuspolice.org) is taking over the position. The contact phone number remains the same: (614) 645-1418

Past President Ed Vanasdale – edvanasdale@fpcivic.org  No Report

Business Representative Sheridan Landon – sheridanlandon@fpcivic.org  No Report

If you are interested in becoming a business member, please contact Sheridan or our Treasurer, Cheryl Lutman.

Civic Action/311 Officer  Ed Vanasdale – edvanasdale@fpcivic.org  

If you have any 311/code enforcement issues or questions, feel free to contact Ed at his email address or cell listed in the Forester.

COMMITTEE REPORTS

Welcome Committee Chair Latia VanDyke – latiavandyke@fpcivic.org  No Report

Volunteer Coordinator VACANT

If you are interested in volunteering in this position, please contact one of the presidents or the secretary.

Membership Coordinator  Mike Stone – mikestone@fpcivic.org

  1. Envelope Stuffing Day will be April 11th at Schoedingers. Stuffing time begins at 1:00 p.m.
  2. March 5th Meeting @ Donato’s for Area Reps and others interested in helping Mike with membership.

Social Activities VACANT

If you are interested in volunteering in this position, please contact one of the presidents or the secretary.

NCC Representatives Mark Bell – markbell@fpcivic.org, Latia VanDyke – latiavandyke@fpcivic.org, Ken Gilbert – kengilbert@fpcivic.org

See report in the Forester.

NCC Development Representative Ed Vanasdale – edvanasdale@fpcivic.org

  1. The church who came last month that will be taking over the old Red Lobster building on Rt. 161, did not do the prescribed mailings to the NCC Dev Board, so their case was tabled.
  2. See meeting minutes on the FPCA website.

Grant Writing Committee Chair  Quentin Monden – quentinmonden@fpcivic.org, Laura Hayes – laurahayes@fpcivic.org  No Report

Outreach Committee Chair  Michael Cote – michaelcote@fpcivic.org

See report in the Forester.

Website Administrators Scott Biggs – scottbiggs@fpcivic.org (Website/Facebook)   Dave Paul – dwpaul@fpcivic.org (Website)  Ashley Howard – ashleyhoward@fpcivic.org (Instagram/Facebook)  

Our website/Facebook page is always – always being updated with new and upcoming info! Please check it out!! Please subscribe/follow us.

OLD BUSINESS

  1. Community members have requested that FPCA general meetings be streamed and made available online. The Board and members present at the January meeting discussed the requirements necessary to implement this, including staffing, equipment, and funding to purchase the necessary equipment. It was determined that, at this time, the association does not have sufficient personnel or equipment to effectively support live streaming or online access.
  2. The Sign Team submitted 311s to replace the missing signs around the entrances to FP, but we were asked to resubmit in the spring when it is more feasible to put them up; this way the 311s won’t stay on their books as being unfulfilled. We will take care of this later.

NEW BUSINESS/ANNOUNCEMENTS/IDEAS  None

Meeting adjourned at 8:17 PM

Meeting minutes submitted by Lou Bernard, Secretary, FPCA

FOREST PARK CIVIC ASSOCIATION MEETING MINUTES

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Date: 13 Jan 2026

Location: Epworth United Methodist Church

Meeting called to order @ 7:04 PM by Ashley Howard, Quentin Monden

The Pledge of Allegiance was recited.

Attendance was taken via roll call.

OFFICER REPORTS

  1. Secretary Lou Bernard read the Slate of Candidates running for positions in the FPCA for 2026. Copies of the “Slate” were made available. Also copies of the FPCA Constitution & Bylaws, and Volunteer Code of Conduct were made available.
  2. Representative Munira Abdullahi swore in all Board of Trustees, Committee Chairs, and Area Representatives. Rep. Abdullahi is our representative for Ohio House District 9.

President Quentin Monden – quentinmonden@fpcivic.org, Ashley Howard – ashleyhoward@fpcivic.org

  1. Scott Biggs and Lou Bernard presented Ed Vanasdale with a plaque thanking him for his years of service and dedication to the FPCA.
  2. We had the Open Forum meeting on 12/9/2025. Additionally, we have shared a link to a Google Form survey to solicit feedback from the Forest Park Community. Thank you to everyone who attended the Open Forum and those of you who have completed the survey. We will have more details to share from the survey and open forum at our next meeting when we have more time. 

Guest Speakers:

  1. Representative Munira Abdullahi gave an update on things she is working on.
  • Her main focus is on affordable healthcare including controlling the cost of insulin and other needed medications. Her other main focus areas are in consumer protection and affordable housing.
  • She was able to secure $500k to Elevate Northland, and another $500k to help repair the lakes in Minerva Park. She is working hard to improve and bring money in and to improve the Northland area.
  • Rep. Abdullahi grew up and lives in the Forest Park neighborhood. She is passionate about helping our area and is always willing to listen to your concerns. Feel free to call or text – 614.500.0103 
  1. A lawyer representing the church that purchased the former Red Lobster building on Route 161 attended the meeting to discuss the proposed plans for the site and the variances required to move forward. Pastor Singh of Zomi Christian Church provided a brief overview of the church and explained the reasons for the relocation. General counsel for the church, along with a representative from the construction company, then outlined the requested variances, which include: (1) allowing the church to not sit within 25 feet of the service road and to use the existing Red Lobster footprint; (2) permitting parking in front of the building rather than exclusively behind it; and (3) reducing the requirement for a significant number of windows facing Route 161, as such a design is not conducive to the functional needs of a church. The speakers were asked by the City to come and present to the community that will be impacted. They were not seeking permission, just information – for us and for them. They are still in the process of planning, and do not expect to start construction for awhile.

Vice President  Mark Bell – markbell@fpcivic.org   No Report

Secretary Lou Bernard – secretary@fpcivic.org

  1. Attendance:
  • Officers/Committee Chairs Present: AH, QM, MB, LB, CL, MSg, RW, DVM, KVM, EV, SL, LV, MSt, KG, DP, SB – 100% in Attendance!
  • Officers/Committee Chairs Absent: none
  • Area Reps in Attendance: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 9, 11, 12, 13
  • Area Reps Absent: 6, 8, 10, 14 (Areas 6, 8,& 14 are all Vacant)
  • Total meeting attendance: 43
  1. Reviewed minutes from both Dec. 2025 meetings, no changes or corrections needed, minutes have been approved and were entered into the official records.
  2. Attendance Sheet thru Jan: online

Treasurer Cheryl Lutman – cheryllutman@fpcivic.org   No Report

  1. December was an extremely quiet month. Nothing was received in December.
  2. Our goal is 450 household memberships (that’s just 16% of the total residents!) to cover our minimum operating expenses. Imagine what we could do if we had more resources – more security patrols, more events, more opportunities to meet and get to know your neighbors. I encourage everyone who hasn’t joined yet to visit our website (fpcivic.org) and join!  It’s just $30/year per household.  Do you rent?  We welcome you to join as well!
  3. We did meet our income goal to balance the budget for 2025.
  4. Other income was advertising revenue.
  5. Our only expenses were the security patrols and supplies for our Welcome Committee.

Public Relations Officer Mary Sguerra – marysguerra@fpcivic.org   No Report

ForesterEditor Rita Woeste – forester@fpcivic.org

  1. All stories, ads, photos, and articles must be to Rita by Jan. 27th, Tuesday.
  2. The February Forester will be ONLINE ONLY!

Supplemental Security Officer Daryl Van Mercetta – darylvanmercetta@fpcivic.org, Katie Van Mercetta – kvanmercetta@fpcivic.org, Dan Yandrich (CPD Liaison Officer) – dyandrich@columbuspolice.org 614.645.1418

  1. The Supplemental Security Team put up the “Package Theft is a Felony” signs around the entrances to the neighborhood.
  2. See full report in the Forester.

Past President Ed Vanasdale – edvanasdale@fpcivic.org   No Report

Business Representative Sheridan Landon – sheridanlandon@fpcivic.org   No Report

Civic Action/311 Officer  Ed Vanasdale – edvanasdale@fpcivic.org   No Report

COMMITTEE REPORTS

Welcome Committee Chair Latia VanDyke – latiavandyke@fpcivic.org

Latia brought Welcome folders for Area Reps present. She will continue dropping off folders to areas without reps.

Volunteer Coordinator VACANT

Membership Coordinator  Mike Stone – mikestone@fpcivic.org

  1. We demonstrated our membership ceiling during the last cycle when leveraging mail-ins and digital reminders. To build on this success, we require a stronger, sustained activity.
  2. Area reps: We need all area representatives to actively engage with and cultivate membership within their specific neighborhoods.
  3. Extended membership committee: Expanding this committee is crucial for driving progress and managing growth.
  4. To coordinate these efforts, Mike is inviting all members and area reps to a planning meeting.
    1. Date: Wednesday, February 4 at 7:00 pm over at Donatos Pizza.   
  5. Ahead of our meeting, a preparatory questionnaire will be circulated to gather input and help us define a clear path forward. By February, we expect to establish key dates for critical activities, including the envelope stuffing day and other important benchmark periods.

Social Activities VACANT

NCC Representatives Mark Bell – markbell@fpcivic.org,  Latia VanDyke – latiavandyke@fpcivic.org, Ken Gilbert – kengilbert@fpcivic.org

  1. Due to an urgency regarding the date, Ken presented that the Woodward Park Community Center Open House was Jan. 14, 5:30 – 7:30. Columbus Recreation and Parks is seeking community input regarding the development of the new linear park, Linden Green Line. Refreshments will be provided.
  2. His full report will be in the Forester.

NCC Development Representative Ed Vanasdale – edvanasdale@fpcivic.org   No Report

Grant Writing Committee Chair  Quentin Monden – quentinmonden@fpcivic.org, Laura Hayes – laurahayes@fpcivic.org   No Report

Outreach Committee Chair  Michael Cote – michaelcote@fpcivic.org

See full report in the Forester.

Website Administrators Scott Biggs – scottbiggs@fpcivic.org (Website/Facebook)   Dave Paul – dwpaul@fpcivic.org (Website)  Ashley Howard – ashleyhoward@fpcivic.org  (Instagram/Facebook)  

Our website/Facebook page is always – always being updated with new and upcoming info! Please check it out!! Please subscribe/follow us.

OLD BUSINESS  None

NEW BUSINESS/ANNOUNCEMENTS/IDEAS

Community members have requested that FPCA general meetings be streamed and made available online. The Board and members present discussed the requirements necessary to implement this, including staffing, equipment, and funding to purchase the necessary equipment. It was determined that, at this time, the association does not have sufficient personnel or equipment to effectively support live streaming or online access.

Meeting adjourned at 8:20 PM

Meeting minutes submitted by Lou Bernard, Secretary, FPCA

FOREST PARK CIVIC ASSOCIATION DECEMBER MEETINGS

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  1. OPEN FORUM Meeting Minutes – 9 Dec 2025
  2. FPCA General Meeting Minutes – 17 Dec 2025

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  1. OPEN FORUM Meeting Minutes

Date: 9 Dec 2025

Location: YMCA North, Karl Rd.

Meeting called to order @ 7:00 PM by Ashley Howard and Quentin Monden 

Attendance: 51 people

The Forest Park Civic Association held this special meeting to address urgent concerns about the future of the organization and its ability to serve the neighborhood. Residents were invited to participate in an open forum to share their expectations, discuss what is working, and identify what needs to change as FPCA faces a critical shortage of volunteers. The discussion focused on the importance of community involvement in maintaining neighborhood representation, communication, and services.

  1. The meeting began with Neil Johnson from the Northland Alumni Association explaining their role in the community and their interest in expanding future events to include the FPCA.
  2. Lou Bernard, Secretary of the FPCA, provided a brief history of the association.
  3. Ashley Howard and Quentin Monden introduced themselves as the meeting moderators and future co-presidents of the FPCA. Ashley also gave an overview of the meeting and shared data from the recent survey sent to area residents.
  4. By an overwhelming majority, those present voted to continue the FPCA.
  5. Many ideas and concerns were brought forward by attendees and are listed below in no particular order:
    • Identifying funding to establish a food drive or use the FPCA as a collection point. INPREM Food Pantry has proxy forms available for neighbors.
    • Live-streaming the monthly meetings.
    • Recognizing and welcoming new attendees at meetings.
    • Determining the percentage of neighbors who are immigrants and identifying countries of origin.
    • Addressing questions about code enforcement. Some attendees were unaware of the 311/Block Watch meetings that have been held for the past two years. Ed Vanasdale explained that he will serve as the 311/Civic Action Officer in 2026 and can be contacted directly.
    • Determining the percentage of owner-occupied versus rental properties and their addresses
    •  Increasing marketing and advertising for the FPCA beyond The Forester. It was noted that the FPCA has both a Facebook page and an Instagram account; no additional marketing ideas were presented.
    • Establishing FPCA suggestion boxes at key locations such as the library and YMCA.
    • Encouraging apartment complexes to donate or become business members.
    • Rotating monthly meeting locations among venues such as the YMCA, area churches, mosques, and other community spaces.
    • Encouraging food trucks and more local businesses to become FPCA members.
    • Identifying local community groups, including youth groups, to assist with The Forester delivery and other volunteer opportunities.
    • Printing The Forester or other FPCA informational materials in multiple languages.
  6. After the meeting, many attendees approached Board members to share their contact information and express interest in future volunteer opportunities.
  7. The Board will review and process the information gathered, with future actions to be discussed at upcoming meetings.

Meeting adjourned at 8:45 PM

Meeting minutes submitted by Lou Bernard, Secretary, FPCA

II. Forest Park Civic Association Meeting

Date: 17 Dec 2025

Location: Fiesta Jalisco

Meeting called to order @ 6:45 PM by Ed Vanasdale 

The Pledge of Allegiance was recited.

Attendance was taken via roll call. 23 people were present

OFFICER REPORTS

President Ed Vanasdale – edvanasdale@fpcivic.org

  1. Thanked everyone present for their support and service throughout the 2025 year.
  2. January Meeting is the swearing in ceremony for all officers, committee chairs, and area reps. We are still trying to secure a city official for the swearing in ceremony.
  3. Guest Speaker: A lawyer representing the organization that purchased the former Red Lobster building on Route 161 will attend the meeting to discuss their proposed plans and the variances required to move forward.
  4. The attendance record for 2025 will be available online.

Meeting adjourned at 7:00 PM                         

Meeting minutes recorded by Catherine Gilbert and submitted by Lou Bernard, Secretary, FPCA

FPCA Open Forum

We want YOUR opinions at the FPCA OPEN FORUM

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FOREST PARK RESIDENTS — WE NEED YOUR VOICE!

The Forest Park Civic Association is hosting an Open Forum on Tuesday, December 9 at 7:00 PM at the North YMCA (Studio A), 1640 Sandalwood Pl. (at Karl Rd.).

Whether you’re a long-time member or brand-new to the neighborhood, everyone is invited. We want to hear from members and non-members. This is your chance to tell us what’s working, what’s not, and what you’d like to see from the FPCA moving forward.

What matters to you?

• How should we communicate with residents?
• What information do you want more of?
• What issues are most important to Forest Park right now?
• What would make you attend more meetings or events?
• What do you love most about living here?

To help guide the conversation, we emailed a short Community Survey to all members — but everyone is welcome to fill it out. It only takes a few minutes, and two respondents will win a $25 Kroger gift card!

Take the survey here
Let’s shape the future of Forest Park—together. See you on December 9!

 

Forest Park Civic Association Meeting Minutes: November 11, 2025

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FOREST PARK CIVIC ASSOCIATION MEETING

Date: 11 Nov 2025

Location: Epworth United Methodist Church

Meeting called to order @ 7:10 PM by Ed Vanasdale 

The Pledge of Allegiance was recited.

Attendance was taken via roll call.

NOTE: Before the meeting, we had a special display of Forest Park history. Those who attended were able to view past photographs from FPCA events, historic Forester newsletters dating back to 1963, and other memorable items from our community’s past. These items will be delivered to the Main Library downtown to begin our archival project with them.

OFFICER REPORTS

President Ed Vanasdale – edvanasdale@fpcivic.org

  1. Open Forum at the North YMCA (on Karl Rd.) in Studio A on Tuesday, December 9th at 7:00 PM. Tell us what you expect from the FPCA, what’s working, and what needs to change. A “Forest Park Civic Association Community Survey” has been emailed to all members, and a link with a QR code has been added in the Forester. Please take a few minutes to give us your thoughts so that you can have a say in how we move forward. Link to survey.
  2. Holiday gathering date and place announcement: Fiesta Jalisco, Dec. 17th, Wednesday @ 6:30 pm. This is for Board members, Committee Chairs, and Area Reps. Lou will send an Evite to your email.
  3. Block Watch and 311 meetings have been put on hold/canceled until further notice. Changes will be taking place in the new year, you will be updated as those changes are being implemented.

Guest Speaker: None

Vice President  Mark Bell – markbell@fpcivic.org  

The homeless issue from the Cleveland Ave./Minerva area was cleared out, they moved, and now they are back. We will continue to work on this issue.

Secretary Lou Bernard – secretary@fpcivic.org

  1. Attendance:
  • Officers/Committee Chairs Present: EV, MB, LB, CL, MSg, RW, DVM, KVM, SL, LV, EM, MSt, TS, KG, QM, DP, SB, AH
  • Officers/Committee Chairs Absent: 100% in Attendance
  • Area Reps in Attendance: 2, 3, 4, 5, 11, 13
  • Area Reps Absent: 1, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 12, 14 (Areas 6, 8,14 are ALL vacant – if interested in helping your area out, please contact Erin @ erinmateru@fpcivic.org
  • Total meeting attendance: 24
  1. Reviewed minutes from October, no changes or corrections needed, minutes have been approved and were entered into the official records.
  2. Attendance Sheet thru November: Online

Treasurer Cheryl Lutman – cheryllutman@fpcivic.org

  1. We received 9 more household memberships.
  2. See spreadsheet in Forester for all expenses and income for the month.

Public Relations Mary Sguerra – marysguerra@fpcivic.org  No Report

Forester Editor Rita Woeste – forester@fpcivic.org

  1. The Jan./Feb. issue of the Forester will be ONLINE ONLY.
  2. We still need people to deliver the Forester. It is an easy way to volunteer – you would deliver between 25-75 Foresters to households in FP. It takes about 30 mins of your time. Please contact Rita W. if you are interested.

Supplemental Security Daryl Van Mercetta – darylvanmercetta@fpcivic.org, Katie Van Mercetta – kvanmercetta@fpcivic.org, Dan Yandrich (CPD Liaison Officer) – dyandrich@columbuspolice.org 614.645.1418

  1. Since there will no longer be a separate 311 or Block Watch meeting. Officer Yandrich will now be coming to the general meeting at 7:00 pm for a brief report. 
  2. See full report in the Forester.

Business Representative Sheridan Landon – sheridanlandon@fpcivic.org  

Sheridan has made phone calls to past business members. Many are interested in renewing their membership. He needs a “Business Welcome Packet” to present to them.

Civic Action Officer  Vacant

In January, Ed Vanasdale will take over this position once his term as president ends.

COMMITTEE REPORTS

Welcome Committee Chair Latia VanDyke – latiavandyke@fpcivic.org

We continue to provide Welcome Folders to new residents, and using the Area Representatives to deliver them.

Volunteer Coordinator Erin Materu – erinmateru@fpcivic.org

  1. The slate of candidates for the upcoming year will be posted online as well as in the Forester. If you are interested in running for one of these positions, please contact Erin or Lou.
  2. Vacant positions: Business Representative, NCC Representative, Area Representatives for Areas: 6, 8, and 14
  3. Ken Gilbert has offered to continue to be one of the NCC Reps and mentor Latia VanDyke
  4. During the discussion of open positions, Quentin Monden and Ashley Howard volunteered to be Co-Presidents for the upcoming year. Congratulations and thank you for stepping up to the challenge!!

Membership Coordinator  Mike Stone – mikestone@fpcivic.org

  1. Mike has hand delivered thank you notes to all FPCA members with whom we do not have email addresses (90). The only ones remaining to get such considerations are to follow up on any remaining memberships that came through the mail. 
  2. Again, thank you to the area reps who made visits to the regular joiners who had not yet joined this cycle. 

Social Activities Tiffany Smith – tsmith1599@yahoo.com

We had a successful Trunk or Treat Event with the YMCA. The event was held inside the Y instead of outside due to the weather.

NCC Representatives Ken Gilbert – kengilbert@fpcivic.org, Mark Bell – markbell@fpcivic.org

See report in the Forester.

NCC Development Representative Ed Vanasdale – edvanasdale@fpcivic.org

See report on the website: https://www.fpcivic.org/development-reports/

Grant Writing Committee Chair  Quentin Monden – quentinmonden@fpcivic.org, Laura Hayes – laurahayes@fpcivic.org

Thanking everyone who helped with the tree planting. The city wants to do a final inspection; the city arborist will be going around with the Grant Writing Committee on Saturday, Nov. 15th to complete this process. 

Outreach Committee Chair  Michael Cote – michaelcote@fpcivic.org

  1.  Meeting with teachers at NHS (10/15) to prepare for The Big Table event with the Superintendent.
  2.  Attended a meeting of the Columbus Tree Coalition (10/15) led by Julie Smiley and Shelley Douglas of Green Columbus. Green Columbus and FLOW will inform FPCA about future tree planting events at Woodward Park.
  3.  Meeting with Alex Abrokwa, Director of INPREM (10/18) to discuss volunteer recruitment for the Food Pantry
  4.  Attended The Big Table Event (10/21) at Karl Road Library with Alex Abrokwa, Director of INPREM.
  5.  Attended The Big Table Event (10/21) at NHS to learn more about the District’s support of the Community Campus School initiative.
  6.  Attended The Big Table Event (10/21) at Focus Learning Academy, a Somali-led Charter School. Meeting with Abdi Soofe and Lindora Howard-Diawara of the Department of Neighborhoods. Both complemented the FPCA for the grant that we received to host the New Americans Party hosted at Woodward Park Community Center (6/28). They both stated that they are looking forward to receiving a report and evaluation about our use of the grant.
  7.  Meeting with Katy Spittell-Jaime, Youth Experience Director at the YMCA (10/23) to discuss future development of the garden.
  8.  Attended the NHS Marching Band Concert (10/28) and met the Music Director, Danny Gleich and the Principal, Dr. J. Johnson.
  9.  Attended Trunk or Treat at the YMCA (10/29).
  10.  Attended the Fall Festival at Woodward Park Community Center (10/29).
  11.  Attended the Walk With A Doc End of Season Celebration with the Woodward Park Walking Club at SFranklin Park (11/1).
  12.  Meeting with Alejandra Rodriquez, Director of the YMCA New Americans Service Center (11/6).
  13.  Attended the Veterans’ Day Celebration at Gillie Senior Recreation Center (11/6).
  14.  Meeting with Sherrie Johnson, Director of North YMCA (11/7) to discuss upcoming events and future opportunities for collaboration. 

Website Administrators Scott Biggs – scottbiggs@fpcivic.org (Website/Facebook)   Dave Paul – dwpaul@fpcivic.org (Website)  Ashley Howard – ashleyhoward@fpcivic.org  (Instagram/Facebook)  

Our website/Facebook page is always – always being updated with new and upcoming info! Please check it out!! Please subscribe/follow us.

OLD BUSINESS   None

NEW BUSINESS/ANNOUNCEMENTS/IDEAS

There are Thanksgiving volunteer opportunities available at area food pantries:

Meeting adjourned at 8:17 PM

Meeting minutes submitted by Lou Bernard, Secretary, FPCA

Security patrol cars

Meet our neighborhood’s Supplemental Security Staff at the November Block Watch.

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Meet our neighborhood’s Supplemental Security Staff at the November Block Watch.

On behalf of all residents, the FPCA has a contract with a private security firm that drives through our streets. FPCA members can request the security patrol check on their homes when they are away. This is a free service available through The Forester Newsletter and online.

Many people have requested to meet with our security patrol staff so our volunteer Supplementary Security Chairs have arranged for a representative from the supplemental security company, US Protection Services, to attend the November Block Watch meeting on Nov. 11 at 6 p.m.

The Block Watch precedes each monthly FPCA General Meeting on the second Tuesday of each month at 7 p.m. at Epworth United Methodist Church.

November 11 FPCA Meetings

6:00 – 6:30 p.m. Block Watch Meeting/Supplemental Security Report
Columbus Police Liaison Officer Dan Yandrich and our Supplemental Security chairpersons provide police and security updates and answer your questions.

6:30 – 7:00 p.m. 311/Code Enforcement Issues Discussion/NCC Development Report
Learn about the latest development plans and requests, new businesses, updates from the Northland Community Council, and ask about code enforcement issues.

7:00 – 8:00 FPCA General Meeting
Updates from our many committees, upcoming plans, and other discussion about Forest Park issues and events.

Meeting Location: Epworth United Methodist Church, 5100 Karl Rd., Columbus, OH 43229
(At the intersection of Karl Road and Penworth Drive)

Everyone in Forest Park is always invited!

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Forest Park Civic Association Meeting Minutes: October 14, 2025

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FOREST PARK CIVIC ASSOCIATION MEETING

Date: 14 Oct 2025

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 roll call.

OFFICER REPORTS

President Ed Vanasdale – edvanasdale@fpcivic.org

Officer, committee chairs, and area representative elections are fast approaching. If you are interested in holding or running for a position, please contact Erin (Volunteer Coordinator) or Lou Bernard (Secretary) and they will get your name on the slate of candidates. Elections will take place in January.

Guest Speaker: None

Vice President  Mark Bell – markbell@fpcivic.org  No Report

Secretary Lou Bernard – secretary@fpcivic.org

  1. Attendance:
  • Officers/Committee Chairs Present: EV, MB, LB, MSg, RW, DVM, KVM, LV, EM, MSt, TS, KG, SB
  • Officers/Committee Chairs Absent: CL, SL, QM, DP, AH
  • Area Reps in Attendance: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 9, 11, 12, 13, 14
  • Area Reps Absent: 6, 8, 10
  • Total meeting attendance: 30
  1. Reviewed minutes from September, no changes or corrections needed, minutes have been approved and were entered into the official records.
  2. Attendance Sheet thru October

Treasurer Cheryl Lutman – cheryllutman@fpcivic.org

  • 30 new household memberships! We are now only 27 away from meeting our goal.
  • We also received a $500 grant/donation Laura Hayes got from her previous employer.

Public Relations Mary Sguerra – marysguerra@fpcivic.org  No Report

Forester Editor Rita Woeste – forester@fpcivic.org

  • NOV/DEC is a combined issue. The deadline for articles/photos/ads/etc. is October 31. The plan is to get it to the printer early in November and back to the stuffers and delivery folks by 2nd week of November so folks have leisure to deliver up until December 1st.  
  • We still need a delivery person for Rockwood Ave in FP West and 2 other areas in FP East. Thanks to those folks who have stepped up and are covering things to lighten Rita’s load a bit. 
  • January and February will both be online issues.  
  • We have enough clear bags to get us thru this year, will have to purchase more bags for delivery in March 

Supplemental Security Daryl Van Mercetta – darylvanmercetta@fpcivic.org, Katie Van Mercetta – kvanmercetta@fpcivic.org, Dan Yandrich (CPD Liaison Officer) – dyandrich@columbuspolice.org 614.645.1418

  • IMPORTANT: Many people have requested to meet with our security patrol people. So we have arranged for a representative from the supplemental security company, US Protection Services, at the November Block Watch meeting – Nov. 11, 6:00 PM. 
  • See report in the Forester.

Business Representative Sheridan Landon – sheridanlandon@fpcivic.org  No Report

Civic Action Officer  Vacant

COMMITTEE REPORTS

Welcome Committee Chair Latia VanDyke – latiavandyke@fpcivic.org

  • Area 6 Rep Cindy F. said she is no longer able to deliver welcome folders. She does not know anyone that can fill her space. Area 8 Rep Frances L. never responded to Latia when contacted about giving her the new residents welcome folders. Latia has started delivering the folders for both areas, but we will need to find new reps for these areas. 
  • We need some of the Forester bags so if residents are not home we can hang the folders on their door.
  • Thoughts on a small postcard asking for volunteers from the areas needed for Forester and welcome folders deliveries? This will be discussed in the next meeting.

Volunteer Coordinator Erin Materu – erinmateru@fpcivic.org

Positions that need to be filled in the new year:

  • President: Ed Vanasdale is stepping down after a 3 year, 2nd term.
  • Civic Action/311 Officer: Vacant
  • Business Members Representative: Vacant (We need 2 reps)
  • NCC Representative: Ken Gilbert is stepping down.
  • Area 6: Cindy Fenstemaker is stepping down from her position.
  • Area 8: Is being removed from their position for lack of attendance per our bylaws.
  • Area 14: Vacant
  • We are also in need of volunteers for weeding and decorating the corner located at Sandalwood at Yellowwood.

Membership Coordinator  Mike Stone – mikestone@fpcivic.org

Thank you to everyone who assisted with this year’s membership drive. Results were mixed—some encouraging, some less so—but teamwork during the April drive made the process smoother than ever. Initial returns were lower than in previous years, possibly due to changes in how the mulch sale form was distributed. A key improvement this year was the timeliness of updates, which allowed quicker thank-you notes, more accurate reports to area representatives, and more frequent neighborhood updates. Looking ahead, greater direct contact with households—particularly those without email—and earlier, ongoing involvement from area representatives will be important for growth. Encouragingly, many new or returning members joined who had not participated last cycle, though some non-renewals were due to residents moving away or concerns about association effectiveness. Overall, we made progress operationally and identified clear steps to strengthen membership efforts in the year ahead.

Social Activities Tiffany Smith – tiffanysmith@fpcivic.org

October 29, 2025 from 5:00 – 8:00 p.m. is the “Trunk or Treat” event at the North YMCA. Participants are required to register their cars if you are handing out candy. We have flyers that can be distributed to the community.

NCC Representatives Ken Gilbert – kengilbert@fpcivic.org, Mark Bell – markbell@fpcivic.org

See Report in the Forester

NCC Development Representative Ed Vanasdale – edvanasdale@fpcivic.org

The next and final meeting in 2025 of the NCC Development Committee will be on December 3, 2025.  The first meeting of 2026 will be on January 28, 2026.

See Report on the website: https://www.fpcivic.org/development-reports/

Grant Writing Committee Chair  Quentin Monden – quentinmonden@fpcivic.org, Laura Hayes – laurahayes@fpcivic.org

The tree grant update – we know that 21 of the 22 total trees we distributed are planted. Thanks everyone for your help. Don’t forget to water your tree! 

Outreach Committee Chair  Michael Cote – michaelcote@fpcivic.org

In our ongoing efforts to maintain and develop relations with other organizations in our community, several conversations have been initiated with the following: North YMCA, Bhutanese Community of Central Ohio, Elevate Northland, Karl Road Library, Woodward Park Community Center, Northland High School, and INPREM Food Pantry. We have agreed to meet regularly to exchange information, share news of interest and of concern to residents of Forest Park, and mutually support our organizations through cooperation and publicity of community events.   

Website Administrators Scott Biggs – scottbiggs@fpcivic.org (Website/Facebook)   Dave Paul – dwpaul@fpcivic.org (Website)  Ashley Howard – ashleyhoward@fpcivic.org  (Instagram/Facebook)  

In October, we have been featuring our advertisers and business members on social media to thank them for their support and invite new businesses to partner with us. We invite everyone to follow the official FPCA social media accounts on Facebook and Instagram for neighborhood information from FPCA, The City of Columbus, Franklin County, and Northland area organizations.

OLD BUSINESS

In September, Google Workspace for Nonprofits training was conducted by Laura Hayes and Lou Bernard for members of the Board and Committee Chairs. All members have a new email address where they can be contacted using the @fpcivic.org domain. All Board members and chairs will use the organizational domain for enhanced security, more professional presence, and centralized administration.

NEW BUSINESS/ANNOUNCEMENTS/IDEAS  

  • We’re excited to share that the Forest Park Civic Association will be partnering with the Columbus Metropolitan Library to preserve our 63 years of history. Lou reached out to Eugene Rutigliano at CML, and together they are establishing a special FPCA collection to archive all of our historical materials. CML will digitize, catalog, and securely store everything, creating an online, publicly accessible, and fully searchable collection for future generations to explore. At the November meeting, there will be a display for attendees to browse through old Foresters and photographs before they are transferred downtown. After the meeting, Lou and Rita will deliver the materials to the library. (This partnership was approved by the membership at the September meeting.)
  • Rita wanted to have a Forester drawing for Kroger gift cards like we did earlier in the year. One of our past winners became a volunteer for us! The motion was passed.

Meeting adjourned at 8:04 PM

Meeting minutes submitted by Lou Bernard, Secretary, FPCA