FOREST PARK CIVIC ASSOCIATION MEETING – October Minutes

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Date: 13 Oct 2026

Location: Epworth United Methodist Church

Meeting called to order @ 7:01 PM by Mark Bell, Vice President

The Pledge of Allegiance was recited.

Attendance was taken via roll call.

OFFICER REPORTS

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

Guest Speaker:  Ambrosia LaMarr, Director of Woodward Park Community Center, spoke at our meeting. She gave an update on senior options, the new Columbus Recreation and Parks fee structure, and many new programs. 

  1. Programming from PreK-older adults. Everything from arts & crafts to volleyball, and everything in-between.
  2. Hygiene or Cleaning Supply gift bags for anyone who is interested. Just come to the front desk and ask.
  3. Senior lunch on Weds. and Fridays from 11 am-1 pm – play bingo and get a free meal!
  4. Trunk or Treat at WWP. Wed., Oct. 28, from 5-7 pm.
  5. Woodward Care – new class. Meeting every Monday in January. A group of people getting together to promote good deeds and service in the community.

WWP is trying very hard to meet the needs of people in the community. If you have any ideas to help them improve, please go and talk with Ambrosia. She is willing to listen!

Vice President  Mark Bell – markbell@fpcivic.org

Mark talked about “Zone In” and its impacts on FPCA. NCC voted to support removing the parcels that contain Kilbourne Run from the new NAC zoning district. He passed out a flyer and urged people to speak out against the plan to change Kilbourne Run (creek) into an apartment complex. The FPCA voted unanimously to also support removing the parcels that the NCC voted on. Mark will write a letter to the City of Columbus on behalf of the FPCA Board, Chairs, and membership stating our position. Lou Bernard will post information on how to submit your criticism of the plan on the FPCA website and on the Facebook groups. Please – EVERYONE – go on to the site and speak in support of keeping this FP greenspace the way it is! 

Secretary Lou Bernard – secretary@fpcivic.org

  1. Attendance: 
  • Officers/Committee Chairs Present: MB, LB, CL, RW, DVM, KVM, EV, LV, MSt, DP
  • Officers/Committee Chairs Absent: AH, QM, MSg, KG
  • Area Reps in Attendance: 2, 3, 4, 7, 9, 11, 12, 13
  • Area Reps Absent: 1, 5, 6, 8, 10, 14
  • Total meeting attendance: 28
  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: Online

Treasurer Cheryl Lutman – cheryllutman@fpcivic.org

  1. September reflects another 13 memberships. This brings us to 401 – just 49 away from our 450 goal. 4 more membership deposits were made on October 1st (including a very generous check for $250!). 
  2. The garage sale grossed $105.
  3. Thanks to Mary’s efforts, the next deposit will show Gabby’s paying their arrears balance for advertising. Lowell confirms that just leaves Columbus Window and Siding ($945) the stucco advertiser ($145).
  4. Expenses are small and are as expected.
  5. We have begun setting up GiveButter to be our new CRM/online payment system. We are in the early stages of understanding how this will all work together, so PayPal will remain our partner for online payments for now.
  6. Cheryl has been in contact with our insurance agent, and having our coverage reviewed to make sure it still fits our needs. It looks like it’s all correct, but waiting on a couple of additional checks to be certain.

Community Concerns/Announcements/Ideas 

Brad Doig, the new Executive Director of YMCA North, attended the meeting and introduced himself and his colleagues. He expressed his enthusiasm for continuing to work with the FPCA and strengthening and expanding the partnership between the two organizations.

Public Relations Officer Mary Sguerra – marysguerra@fpcivic.org

The Fall Forest Park Community Garage Sale on Sept. 12th had 21 participants and unfortunately it was a very rainy morning. Hopefully we will have better weather for the next Community Garage Sale which will be in the Spring of 2027.

Forester Editor Rita Woeste – forester@fpcivic.org

  1. We need articles, pics, etc. for the NOV/DEC issue. The deadline for items is Saturday, Oct 31. The hope is to have this issue out to home before Thanksgiving so everyone can enjoy the holiday season. If you think of anything going on in December get that to Rita as well. Thanks!
  2. Rita has receipts to give the Treasurer for clear bags bought that should last us at least till May.
  3. She is still working on a new format to create the newsletter, following up on some leads and will let folks know how it goes.

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

It has been confirmed that we will be having a new Columbus Police Liaison Officer for our precinct soon!

See report in the Forester.

Past President Ed Vanasdale – edvanasdale@fpcivic.org

  1.  Our 2026 membership cycle ended last month. We need to confirm the total number of current memberships and assess how closely we are meeting our budget goals. A mid-cycle Board meeting needs to be scheduled to review our financial status and address any budgetary concerns. 
  2. Lou Bernard will send out a meeting poll to all board members to get a date scheduled before the November meeting.

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

COMMITTEE REPORTS

Business Representative VACANT

Welcome Committee Chair VACANT

Volunteer Coordinator VACANT

Membership Coordinator  Mike Stone – mikestone@fpcivic.org

We have documented 401 households we have collected this cycle. We have sent electronic thank you’s/ acknowledgements to those on record with email addresses and will deliver the remaining thank you’s to their door over this upcoming week.  

Social Activities Francine Dillard – fdillard@fpcivic.org

  1. Francine met with the director and assistant director of the Woodward Park Community Center to discuss what events we could partner on. Discussed doing a Breakfast with Santa including it with their Annual Christmas celebration. Other ideas were Forest Park Civic Association sponsoring one of their Family Friday Night gatherings, having a family card tournament as the theme. FPCA could provide a Kroger gift card to the family who wins. They have several families who attend the Friday night events. Hopefully we can increase awareness of the Civic Association. We may do a joint community bowling party or skating party. The center has a 15 passenger van that they would be willing to use to transport people to these events who had no transportation.
  2. A survey has been completed and has been sent to Forest Park households to see what events they might be interested in doing.
  3. Francine will finalize the Friday night plans and breakfast with Santa in November after receiving approval at the October meeting. 
  4. Plans to schedule meeting with YMCA leadership to explore partnerships 

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

Ken Gilbert – kengilbert@fpcivic.org

See report online and in the Forester

NCC Development Representative Ed Vanasdale – edvanasdale@fpcivic.org

Ed discussed the cases that affect our FP area, see the full report on a link on the website home page.

Grant Writing Committee Chair  Quentin Monden – quentinmonden@fpcivic.org

Outreach Committee Chair  Michael Cote – michaelcote@fpcivic.org

See report online and in the Forester

Website Administrators 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  

Open Positions:

  • Delivery Positions (multiple routes)
  • Area Reps: FPW: 5; FPE: 6, 8, 14
  • Committee Chairs: Business Membership Chair, Volunteer Coordinator, Welcome Committee Chair Social Media (Facebook, Website)

NEW BUSINESS/ANNOUNCEMENTS/IDEAS

Next Meeting:

  • 10 November 2026
  • Epworth United Methodist Church
  • 5100 Karl Rd, Columbus, OH 43229
  • 7:00-8:00 PM

Meeting adjourned at 8:12 PM

Meeting minutes submitted by Lou Bernard, Secretary, FPCA

October 2026 NCC Report

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Submitted by Latia VanDyke –  latiavandyke@fpcivic.org

Columbus Police Department:

  • 18th precinct (us), they are hoping to fill the liaison spot this month. 
  • Woodward Parks request for cameras has been approved and should be delivered sometime this week.

Columbus City Attorney: 

  • Walford Strip Mall has had a lot of police activity. Looking to up security measures to make it safer. Lights, cameras, security, etc.
  • Norwood Inn – court date Oct 15. Suggestion was to close until code violations are fixed (primarily mold)

Zone In Columbus:

  • October 24th community comment period ends
    • Residents of FP are encouraged to review as there are suggested zoning changes for areas off Karl and Cleveland that would have a big impact on our neighborhood. We’ve been encouraged to have as many people submit suggestions or comments if they would like a change to the currently proposed plan as they cannot make changes if there are only a few people requesting them. 
    • https://share.google/WugnFIWrCpekTrX4X
  • NCC voted to write a letter to support suggested changes to the current Zone In plans for parts of FP (FP East along Cleveland) and Salem.
    • All NCC members are encouraged to submit suggested changes as well. 

North YMCA:

  • New Executive Director – Brad Doig
  • Wednesday, 10/28 6-8pm Trunk or Treat
    • Can sign up at the Y if you would like to reserve a car spot.

311 has an app. Go to the App Store/Google Play and search CBUS 311.

NCC is planning to write a letter in support of the Linden Green Line grant application.

October 2026 Outreach Report

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Submitted by Michael Cote

Michael attended the following past events for the community in the past month. Details and photos will follow for the next issue of the Forester.

  • Brain Health Fair at Gillie Recreation Center
  • Listening session hosted by Council President Shannon Hardin at Afra Grill
  • Northland Unity Festival at North YMCA
  • The Big Table at YMCA and at Elevate Northland
  • Northland High School (NHS) Homecoming with members of the Community Campus School
  • Nutrition Workshop at New American Garden and Farmstand
  • Walk With A Doc at Woodward Park 

Upcoming events

Planting of trees and pollinator plants with Friends of Woodward Park and the Department of Parks and Recreation at the Nature Preserve, Wednesday, October 21, 9am – 12pm.

Meeting of the Community Campus School Steering Committee at NHS, October 14, 2:45 – 3:45pm.

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🌳 HELP US SAVE OUR FOREST PARK GREEN SPACE! 🌳

Forest Park neighbors, we need your help! Please take a few minutes to speak up and let the City of Columbus know that we want to PRESERVE our wooded green space and protect Kilbourne Run — not allow it to be destroyed for new development!

The City’s proposed Zone In zoning changes could allow tall apartment buildings on the wooded parcels near the Jesus Power Assembly of God Church at 5215 Cleveland Avenue, south of the church and near Kilbourne Run. This proposal threatens the trees, natural habitat, and stream that make this area special.

🌲 This is more than a patch of trees. The area includes Kilbourne Run, a stream that feeds into Alum Creek, and land protected by a conservation easement negotiated in 1995. We believe this natural space should be preserved for our neighborhood and future generations.

📢 HERE’S HOW YOU CAN HELP:

✅ Use the City’s link below to make your voice heard!

👉 https://zone-in-columbus.hub.arcgis.com/pages/current-proposal

  1. Open the link and click the “Map Survey” button.
  2. Find the wooded parcels on the map near Cleveland Avenue, south of the church. It is labeled as “Northland”.
  3. Submit your comments opposing the proposed rezoning of these parcels.

Please tell the City clearly:

  • Keep this wooded green space and Kilbourne Run protected.
  • Do not allow development that destroys the trees and stream.
  • Honor the existing conservation easement.
  • Preserve this natural area for our community and future generations.

📅 The survey closes October 24! Please don’t wait. Every comment helps demonstrate that our community cares about protecting this land.

📣 PLEASE SHARE THIS POST with your neighbors, friends, and family. The more people who speak up, the stronger our message will be.

🌳 Let’s stand together and tell the City of Columbus: KEEP OUR GREEN SPACE GREEN! 🌳

Zone-In Flyer

FOREST PARK CIVIC ASSOCIATION MEETING September Meeting

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Date: 8 September 2026

Location: Epworth United Methodist Church

Meeting called to order @ 8:03 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

Guest Speaker: Eugene Rutigliano, Columbus Metropolitan Library (CML) librarian and Digital Collections Director, explained how the FPCA’s historic materials were preserved and digitized. He also gave us an online tour of the new FPCA Digital Collection. He also discussed Forest Park History Day coming up in March.Everyone was delighted and impressed with the work that the CML did for us! Thank you to Eugene and the loads of volunteers at the downtown branch; Local History and Genealogy Department.

To see the the collection look here: https://digital-collections.columbuslibrary.org/digital/collection/forestpark

Vice President  Mark Bell – markbell@fpcivic.org

NCC has been invited to the gallery of new Zone In 2 on 9/16 from 5-7 pm @ 141 N. Front St. (By the time the minutes were published, this event will have already happened.)

Secretary Lou Bernard – secretary@fpcivic.org

  1. Attendance:
  • Officers/Committee Chairs Present: AH, QM, MB, LB, CL, MSg, RW, DVM, KVM, LV, MSt, DP
  • Officers/Committee Chairs Absent: EV, SL, KG
  • Area Reps in Attendance: 2, 4, 7, 8, 9, 11, 12, 13
  • Area Reps Absent: 1, 3, 5, 6, 10, 14
  • Total meeting attendance: 29
  1. Reviewed minutes from August, no changes or corrections needed, minutes have been approved and were entered into the official records.
  2. Attendance Sheet thru September: Online

Treasurer Cheryl Lutman – cheryllutman@fpcivic.org

  1. It was a quiet month! Expenses were minimal – security and PayPal fees.
  2. Cheryl is requesting that the FPCA moves to a new system of collecting payment. Members of the Board have been looking toward doing this. They have been evaluating different systems, and will be meeting to make a final decision soon.

Community Concerns/Announcements/Ideas None

Public Relations Officer Mary Sguerra – marysguerra@fpcivic.org

Reminder- that this Saturday, Sept. 12th is the Forest Park Community Garage Sale. Please turn in your entry forms by Wednesday to be listed on the flier that is handed out at the Sandalwood & Karl Rd entrances.

Also we are looking for 2 people to hand out the fliers on Saturday from 9 – 10:30 a.m. (By the time the minutes were published, this event will have already happened.)

Forester Editor Rita Woeste – forester@fpcivic.org

  1. More bags have been purchased. Still trying to find the best one.
  2. Sept. 18th deadline for articles. 
  3. Oct. 30th deadline for November/December combined issue.
  4. Still working on learning Canva – if you are an expert contact Rita. A discussion followed about the future of MS Publisher and its use.

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

We have no community liaison officer and none for the foreseeable future. See full report in the Forester.

Past President Ed Vanasdale – edvanasdale@fpcivic.org ABSENT

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

COMMITTEE REPORTS

Business Representative VACANT

This position is currently vacant because of Sheridan’s health concerns. If you would like to help out, we would greatly appreciate it.

Welcome Committee Chair VACANT

Latia resigned at the meeting.

Volunteer Coordinator VACANT

Membership Coordinator  Mike Stone – mikestone@fpcivic.org

  1. 388 households have renewed their FPCA membership.
  2. 200 households from last year have not yet renewed. It is very likely that some of those 200 households have moved or otherwise moved on from the neighborhood. However, there is no doubt that a considerable number simply have not yet returned their membership.
  3. Our Strategy for the Remaining Weeks
    1. Mike will continue to specifically target households that have an email address on record. 
    2. For the area reps, please review your area and concentrate your efforts on those households who do not have an email. They’re likely older residents who could use a visit.  
  4. What Happens Next
    1. The September Forester will contain our final public appeal for membership. After that, we will no longer make a public push, although behind the scenes we will continue trying to reach those households we believe we may still be able to secure.
    2. In the October Forester:
      1. We will publish one final listing thanking the members who have joined and have given us permission to print their names.
      2. Mike will also prepare printed thank-you letters for members for whom we do not have an email address.
      3. Members for whom we do have an email address will receive an electronic thank-you from me.
  5. Mike will need the help of our area representatives in distributing those printed thank-you notes. We can talk more about that as we get closer to October.
  6. Thank you again for all of the time and effort you have put into this year’s drive. 387 households renewed is a very good start, and your continued help over these final weeks will be important as we work to bring that number as high as we can.

Social Activities Francine Dillard

Francine is stepping up from her position as asst Area 7 Representative to take on this role. We are excited to have her and can’t wait to see what she brings forward.

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

Ken Gilbert – kengilbert@fpcivic.org Absent

  1. New curfew laws for the city: Under 13 – in before 9 pm; 14-17 in before 10 pm
  2. FP does not have a current police liaison.
  3. Transitional Housing Update on Rt. 161 – the Shelter Board has increased security, enacted new and stricter lease agreements, and increased the number of trash/bulk pick ups at the location.
  4. YMCA Trunk or Treat – 10/28  6-8 pm, they are looking for volunteers.
  5. July 4th Parade next year will be on Saturday July 3, 2027 (Karl Rd. is not allowed to be closed on a Sunday.)
  6. Zone in 2 Update (see report in Forester)

NCC Development Representative Ed Vanasdale – edvanasdale@fpcivic.org

See report online.

Grant Writing Committee Chair  Quentin Monden – quentinmonden@fpcivic.org No Report

Outreach Committee Chair  Michael Cote – michaelcote@fpcivic.org

See Michael’s report online and in the Forester.

Website Administrators 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

Open Positions:

  • Delivery Positions (multiple routes)
  • Area Reps: FPW: 5; FPE: 6, 8, 14
  • Committee Chairs: Business Membership Chair, Volunteer Coordinator, Welcome Committee Chair Social Media (Facebook, Website)

NEW BUSINESS/ANNOUNCEMENTS/IDEAS

  • Our next FPCA meeting will be
    • October 13, 2026
    • 7-8 pm
    • Epworth United Methodist Church, 5100 Karl Rd, Columbus, OH 43229

Meeting adjourned at 8:08 PM

Meeting minutes submitted by Lou Bernard, Secretary, FPCA

September 2026 Outreach Report

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Submitted by Michael Cote, Outreach Chair

North YMCA Community Center has announced in the YMCA September 2026 Newsletter that Sherrie Johnson, Executive Director of the North YMCA, will be retiring after 19 years at the Y effective September 30, 2026.  Sherrie has truly been a good friend and partner with the Forest Park Community and Civic Association and will be missed.

Northland High School has appointed Jennifer Edgington, as full-time Coordinator of the Community Campus School Program. We look forward to future collaboration, especially with the Northland Market! 

Columbus Recreation and Parks Department has announced that beginning Sept. 1, residents age 60 and older can purchase a $60 for 60+ Pass, which provides access to most senior programming at community centers for $60 per year.

Upcoming events:

The Big Table Event, sponsored by the Columbus Foundation will be held at North YMCA, Sept 29, 2026, 8:00 – 10:00 am. Topic: Building Community in Northland 

Northland Unity Festival will be returning in less than two weeks to the North YMCA on Saturday, September 19, 2026, 3-7 pm. The festival is free and open to everyone and is hosted by Elevate Northland and the North YMCA. 

The 2026 Unity Festival, now in its ninth year, is Northland’s premier community event. Northland is home to one of the most diverse areas in Columbus, where peoples of different cultures, customs, and languages live in the same neighborhood. The Unity Festival brings neighbors and communities together to celebrate the rich diversity of their food, music, and dance. This year’s festival will feature over 40 exhibitors including local homecrafters, businesses, nonprofit organizations, and food vendors. New this year is an indoor Kid’s Market where young entrepreneurs will sell their creations from their own booths. 

Green Columbus is back with their annual free tree giveaway! Every spring Green Columbus plants 3,000+ trees at their nursery before giving them away in the fall as 4-6 foot trees to community residents to plant. If you’re interested in planting a tree on your property, you can reserve your free tree now by signing up at greencbus.org/freetrees where you can select from different tree species as well as schedule where to pick up your free tree at one of three different sites and dates this fall. (South Side – 9/27; Franklinton – 10/4; Linden – 10/11)

The New Americans Garden and Farm Stand is located at the North YMCA and continues to host well attended farm markets in our neighborhood. The OSU Outreach Center for The James Cancer Hospital held a nutrition Workshop at the Farm Stand last Friday. The New American Garden and Farm Stand is managed by the Bhutanese Community of Central Ohio (BCCO) and will be open every Friday, 10 am – Noon, throughout the growing season. BCCO is applying for grant funding for the 2027 growing season.

August 2026 Outreach Report

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Submitted by Michael Cote, Outreach Chair    michaelcote@fpcivic.org

The North YMCA hosted a fantastic National Night Out on August 4, 2026! Several hundred people attended and many families received free backpacks and school supplies for kids going back to school. There were plenty of children’s games, free haircuts, free food (Steve Jennings grilled over 180 lbs of hotdogs!), music, door prizes, and appearances by Spiderman, Sheriff deputies, and CPD officers! The Forest Park community is very fortunate to have a caring and active partner like the North YMCA centered in the very heart of our neighborhood. The Forest Park Civic Association staffed a table at the event and we enjoyed friendly conversations with residents as well as law enforcement. Furthermore we established contacts with several organizations and members of local government including the Columbus City Council, SWACO, and CRIS, and we will be exploring further collaboration with them in the near future.

The New Americans Garden and Farm Stand hosted several well attended farm markets in July. Many residents from the Forest Park community had the chance to buy fresh cucumbers, green beans, and leafy greens like jamma-jamma and amaranth from local New American gardeners. The Farm Stand is managed by the Bhutanese Community of Central Ohio (BCCO) and will be open every Friday, 10 am – Noon, throughout the growing season. The Nutrition Workshop that the OSU Community Outreach Center of the James Comprehensive Cancer Hospital had scheduled for August 7 was postponed due to rain, but it is expected to be rescheduled soon. Pl;ease check our Facebook page for the new date.  All are welcome to attend the workshop, and buy fresh produce from local gardeners. You are cordially invited to come and meet your neighbors and visit the local gardeners from the New Americans community as well as members of the BCCO staff. The Farm Stand is located in the heart of Forest Park at the intersection Karl Rd and Sandalwood Place in front of the North YMCA,1640 Sandalwood Pl. 

Green Columbus is back with their annual free tree giveaway! Every spring Green Columbus plants 3,000+ trees at their nursery before giving them away as 4-6 foot trees in the fall to community residents to plant at home. Reserve your free tree now by signing up at greencbus.org/freetrees where you can select from different tree species as well as schedule where to pick up your free tree from among three different sites and dates this fall. You can be a nature-friendly resident in our community and help our Forest Park tree canopy grow by planting a free tree from Green Columbus!

The Northland Unity Festival will be returning to the North YMCA (1640 Sandalwood Pl) this year. The Unity Festival is Northland’s premier community event and will feature music, dance, food vendors, local crafts, and informational resources from local businesses and nonprofit organizations working in Northland.  Come and enjoy Northland’s free festival of unity on September 19, 2026, 3-7 pm and celebrate being a part of a multicultural community that gives Northland its reputation as the international gateway to Columbus.

FOREST PARK CIVIC ASSOCIATION MEETING August Meeting

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NCC Picnic

Date: 11 Aug 2026

Location: Warner Woods Pavilion, 4747 Central College Road, Columbus, OH 43081

There was no meeting or NCC updates.

Attendance was taken via roll call.

OFFICER REPORTS

President Quentin Monden – quentinmonden@fpcivic.org, Ashley Howard – ashleyhoward@fpcivic.org No Report

Guest Speaker: None

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

Secretary Lou Bernard – secretary@fpcivic.org

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

Treasurer Cheryl Lutman – cheryllutman@fpcivic.org ABSENT

  1. We received two business memberships — one from AquaPure and one from the YMCA — bringing total paid business memberships to 5.
  2. Expenses were noted as self-explanatory.

Community Concerns/Announcements/Ideas 

Paul Ball from Blue Ash Place came to the picnic to discuss the new Columbus City grant called “Our Voice, Our Choice”. He is interested in obtaining street lights for Blue Ash Place. L. Bernard agreed to help him write the online proposal at https://common.oneproject.org/en/decisions/columbus/

Public Relations Officer Mary Sguerra – marysguerra@fpcivic.org

Reminder that the Fall Community Garage Sale is Saturday, Sept.12th  Please turn in your entry form by Wednesday, Sept 9th. She is looking for 2 volunteers to help pass out the fliers at the Karl Rd. & Sandalwood entrance. If you are interested in helping, please contact Mary.

Forester Editor Rita Woeste – forester@fpcivic.org ABSENT

  1. All articles, photos, ads, and other submissions for the newsletter are due by Tuesday, August 18th. It was noted that this issue will have fewer minutes than usual, leaving additional space to fill.
  2. Regarding newsletter delivery bags, supplies are running low, with only a few hundred remaining. Rita  is still researching the best bag option and price, factoring in shipping costs, and plans to purchase only enough to cover the next three newsletters (September, October, and November/December), with the decision to be revisited in early 2027.
  3. Concerns were raised about using Canva for the print version of the Forester newsletter. When an issue was uploaded to Canva, it broke the content into numerous separate text boxes — for example, one ad alone was split into approximately 50 text boxes — making the process impractical. Rita is continuing to investigate whether this can be resolved and would welcome any tutorials or insight from members familiar with Canva, noting that any new tool used should not add extra time to producing the newsletter.
  4. Finally, thanks were extended to Ashley and everyone who helped count, bag, and deliver the August issue of the Forester, which allowed Rita to enjoy her vacation.

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

See report in the Forester.

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

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

COMMITTEE REPORTS

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

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

Volunteer Coordinator VACANT

Membership Coordinator  Mike Stone – mikestone@fpcivic.org  ABSENT

An additional 82 household memberships processed in July, bringing total paid memberships through July 31st to 366, with 84 remaining. 11 more had been received so far in August, bringing the remaining total to 73.

Social Activities VACANT No Report

NCC Representatives Mark Bell – markbell@fpcivic.org  ABSENT,  Latia VanDyke – latiavandyke@fpcivic.org  ABSENT  Ken Gilbert – kengilbert@fpcivic.org  No Report

NCC Development Representative Ed Vanasdale – edvanasdale@fpcivic.org ABSENT

See report on our website.

Grant Writing Committee Chair  Quentin Monden – quentinmonden@fpcivic.org  No Report

Outreach Committee Chair  Michael Cote – michaelcote@fpcivic.org ABSENT 

See report in the Forester

Website Administrators Dave Paul – dwpaul@fpcivic.org (Website) ABSENT

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

Open Positions:

  • Delivery Positions (multiple routes)
  • Area Reps: FPW: 5; FPE: 6, 8, 14
  • Committee Chairs: Volunteer Coordinator, Social Activities Chair, Social Media (Facebook, Website)

NEW BUSINESS/ANNOUNCEMENTS/IDEAS   NONE

  • Our next FPCA meeting will be
    • September 8, 2026
    • 7-8 pm
    • Epworth United Methodist Church, 5100 Karl Rd, Columbus, OH 43229
    • Eugene Rutigliano from the Columbus Metropolitan Library will be our guest speaker to explain and give us a walk through of the new Forest Park Civic Association digital collection on the library’s website.

Picnic adjourned around 7:30 PM

Meeting minutes submitted by Lou Bernard, Secretary, FPCA

FOREST PARK CIVIC ASSOCIATION MEETING July Meeting

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Date: 14 July 2026

Location: Epworth United Methodist Church

Meeting called to order @ 7:05 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

No Report

Guest Speakers:

Hugo Barragan – Franklin County Auditor’s Office – to discuss the new Property Value Updates. He had a  slideshow and handouts about the 2026 Property Value Update. He answered many questions about how to dispute your home value in order to lower your property taxes. Go to this website to check out the process: https://audr-kyhv.franklincountyohio.gov/ 

Sherrie Johnson Dantzler– YMCA Director

  1. Campfires across America at the North YMCA. This event will be held Wednesday, July 22, 2026, 6-8 pm. More than 1200 YMCAs in all 50 states will host a campfire–real or symbolic–bringing people together in a shared moment of connection, reflection, and belonging.
  2. The North YMCA is hosting its National Night Out event on Tuesday, August 4th, from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM. This free community event features family fun, games, activities, food, and opportunities to connect with local first responders and community partners

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, EV, SL, MSt, KG, DP
  • Officers/Committee Chairs Absent: KVM, LV
  • Area Reps in Attendance: 1, 2, 3, 4, 7, 9, 11, 13
  • Area Reps Absent: 5, 6, 8, 10, 12, 14
  • Total meeting attendance: 29
  1. Reviewed minutes from June, no changes or corrections needed, minutes have been approved and were entered into the official records.
  2. Attendance Sheet thru July: Online

Treasurer Cheryl Lutman – cheryllutman@fpcivic.org

  1. See the spreadsheet/budget in the Forester.
  2. We’re excited to welcome a new business member in June and it looks like we have a new one in July as well! That brings our total paid business members to 4. We do need 10, but whatever folks are doing seems to be working.
  3. Expenses include printing the Forester, buying bags, paying our annual NCC dues, security patrols and the garage sale advertising.

Community Concerns/Announcements/Ideas 

  1. Beautification Committee – Eileen Kunkler – kunkler85@gmail.com
    • Need more nominations, only 1 received so far. August 1st deadline. Also looking for at least one other person to serve as judge.
  2. No August FPCA Meeting. We all go to the NCC Picnic -Tuesday August 11, 2026, 6pm – 8pm. NEW LOCATION: Warner Woods Pavilion, 4747 Central College Road, Columbus, OH 43081. NCC will provide: Protein options, buns and beverages. Please bring a dish to share.
  3. Gather at Gabby’s – 30 July 2026 – 6:30 pm – 8:30 pm. The last Thursday of each month is “Gather at Gabby’s”. Come and hang out with your friends, FPCA officers, and committee chairs and chat about what is going on in FP.

Public Relations Officer Mary Sguerra – marysguerra@fpcivic.org

  1. Congratulations! Our Forest Park 4th of July Parade Float won the Grand Marshal Award. Thank you to everyone who helped out and volunteered to walk & pass out candy and assisted Rita Woeste with the Bikes & Trikes part of it.  
  2. A Big THANK YOU goes to:
    • Pat Kelly for driving his pick-up truck, pulling the float and letting us decorate it.
    • Katrina at the Dairy Queen at Schrock Rd. for donating free cone coupons for the Bikes & Trikes event.
    • Kenny Wiseman for letting us borrow his trailer AGAIN to be used for the 4th of July float. 🙂
  3. Save the Date  – September 12th will be the Fall Forest Park Community Garage Sale  9-3 p.m.
    • Please let Mary know if you could help pass out the fliers on that day from 9 a.m. to 10:30 a.m.

Forester Editor Rita Woeste – forester@fpcivic.org

  1. The deadline for August Forester is Thursday July 16. Please submit photos/ads/articles ASAP and we are looking for photos from the parade, summaries from any other events in the neighborhood. Planning on one last form for membership in the August issue and that’s it for the year. 
  2. Rita will be out of town starting July 24th, and if Foresters are not printed in time, will need someone to help collect, count, bag and distribute Foresters around Sat. July 25 to Tues July 28th otherwise they will sit until August to be distributed. If there are any volunteers that could help do this, then we don’t have to worry. 
  3. We need a volunteer delivery person for Blue Ash Rd in FPE for the month of August. Still looking for 2 other volunteers for 2 areas in FPE as posted in the past.  
  4. Thanks to Matt Stone, Kate Stone and their friends for judging and assisting with Bikes and Trikes. The hot weather did not help us this year, and a small turnout of kids. For those who attended, great job.  

Supplemental Security Officer Daryl Van Mercetta – darylvanmercetta@fpcivic.org, Katie Van Mercetta – kvanmercetta@fpcivic.org      See report in the Forester.

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

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

Ed clarified questions people had concerning 311 issues. There were many questions about cars parking on the street-abandoned or not being moved, blocking sidewalks, or parking the wrong way. 

COMMITTEE REPORTS

Business Representative Sheridan Landon – sheridanlandon@fpcivic.org 

Has made calls, and is still waiting to hear back from some folks.

Welcome Committee Chair Latia VanDyke – latiavandyke@fpcivic.org

Latia is behind on the Welcome folders. Updating some outdated information on documents. Laura is going to assist catching up

Volunteer Coordinator VACANT

Membership Coordinator  Mike Stone – mikestone@fpcivic.org

  1. Thank you to our outstanding Area Representatives for the time and effort you have dedicated to securing memberships from our longtime FPCA supporters. Your commitment is truly appreciated.
  2. Adding those in, we are now at 353. Our budget is based on 450, so we need another 97. We have an additional 46 new members not from the past two years. We also have 255 FPCA-friendly households from the past two membership cycles that have not yet been renewed. Our membership drive continues through Labor Day weekend, so please keep reaching out to the residents in your area.
  3. At the June meeting, Mike provided each Area Representative with a folder containing a list of households that have traditionally supported the FPCA. Mike asked for Area Reps to please review the info he gave you to see which memberships have been received since you were given the printed copy.
  4. If you were unable to attend the June meeting, you can pick up your folder at the July 14 meeting. Mike will also have blank household information sheets available to make it easier to sign up new and renewing residents. Mike apologized for not including those forms in the June packets.

Social Activities VACANT

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

Ken Gilbert – kengilbert@fpcivic.org     See the full report online and in the Forester.

NCC Development Representative Ed Vanasdale – edvanasdale@fpcivic.org

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

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 the full report online and in the Forester.

Website Administrators 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

The Sign Team: We were hoping to have the city install 4 more signs at entrances to FP. The city refused our request. The 4 locations are: 1) Boxwood/Redwood, 2) Green Apple/Cleveland, 3) Tamarack/Sharbot, and 4) Tamarack/Rocky Pine Loop N. Last time (we replaced them, it cost $355/sign. DVM will call the local company we used in the past to get a quote.

NEW BUSINESS/ANNOUNCEMENTS/IDEAS

The Board expressed its sincere appreciation to Scott Biggs for his dedicated service to the Forest Park Civic Association. Scott is resigning from his positions as Area 5 Representative, Facebook Updates Coordinator, and Website Updates Coordinator. His time, effort, and commitment to keeping residents informed and supporting the Association are greatly appreciated, and we thank him for all he has done for our community.

With Scott’s resignation, these volunteer positions are now vacant. We encourage anyone who is interested in serving the neighborhood to consider stepping into one or more of these roles. If you are able to help, please contact the FPCA. Your involvement makes a difference and helps keep our Association strong.

Meeting adjourned at 8:13 PM

Meeting minutes submitted by Lou Bernard, Secretary, FPCA

NCC Report for June 2026

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Submitted by Ken Gilbert

  1. NCC Picnic Tuesday, August 11th 6-8pm Warner Woods Pavilion
  2. NABA Golf Outing Thursday, August 27th Delaware Golf Club
  3. Columbus Public Health providing free back to school vaccine clinics
    • Wednesday, August 12th 12pm- 6pm Woodward Park Middle School, 5152 Karl Rd.
      • Call 614-645-6881 with questions or to register
  4. CPD
    • Our liaison Officer Hicks will be retiring in a month. 
    • Popeyes owners/managers meeting with CPD and City Council members later this month
    • Having problems with vagrants, excessive panhandling, indecent exposure, etc.
  5. The Bridge Ministry
    • Christian nonprofit helping those who struggle with homelessness, addiction, and long-term unemployment to rebuild. All are welcome regardless of religious beliefs.
    • Find more information at www.thebrige-ministry.com or calling 614-500-0656