Author Archives: Center Hill Neighborhood Association

1. Meeting Called to Order by Vice President, Ms. Addie Calhoun at 6:35 PM. 
2. Agenda approved by majority vote. 
3. Minutes approved as read by Consultant Chris Bartlett. 
4. Consultant Chris Bartlett oversaw report of committees:
   1. Beautifcation: Discussion was held around the aims of the beautification committee. Tre’Chic Graham volunteered to oversee this committee and will begin soliciting support of neighbors to join her already established neighborhood clean-up efforts. During discussion, Ms. Graham also made note of safety concerns due to increased gunshots in our area. NPU J President Keona Jones advised residents of the new major at APD and suggested each neighborhood send a representative to meet with him and discuss their specific concerns.
   2. Communication: Communications Chair, Jason Davis, shared updates on website progress. Jason requested participation from neighbors by providing history/stories of their Center Hill experience. Jason also plans to update the website to include info regarding strategic partners and things to do. The goal is to have the website up and running within 1-2 months.
   3. Vacant Committees: Chris Bartlett provided general overview of the education, entertainment/events, environmental and public safety committees and asked all neighbors in attendance to consider volunteering their time to lead a committee.
   4. Zoning: Chris Bartlett provided update on the importance of active participation in the zoning committee. As it relates, Chris shared updates on the development of Bankhead Seafood which includes plans to include patio seating and the need for a zoning variance to address parking concerns. To reintroduce Bankhead Seafood to the community, a food truck event is planned for next month. Chris also shared info regarding the “Old Citgo” located at the Hollywood/DLH split. This property has changed hands recently, and the new ownership has signed the “Community Benefits Business Agreement’ with NPU J- committing them to becoming involved in the respective neighborhood associations, PTAs, etc and proactively hire/train from within.
   5. Misc: Residents expressed concern over blight/old food at the corner store located at DLH and James Jackson. Residents were encouraged to document obvious hazards with the appropriate regulatory agencies (Code Enforecement, Dept. of Health)
5. New Business: 
   1. Allen Holmes, of Councilman Dustin Hillis’ office, was in attendance and shared information regarding the DEV (Disabled, elderly, veterans) Legislation program aimed at stopping predatory reporting of homes that seniors refuse to sell for code violations. Their office is aiming to connect residents with resources to assist with lawn care, painting, etc via a grant of $250K. Allen Holmes shared info regarding the Georgia HOPE grant which enables non-degree holders to get a free certification in skilled trades (HVAC, plumbing, computer programming) via training at Atlanta Technical College. Residents encouraged the office to be conscious of barriers residents may find to completing the application (internet access, computer literacy, etc.) and asked their office to consider hosting computer literacy classes for seniors as well. Regarding Code Enforcement, Councillman Hillis’ office is pushing for an increase in pay for building inspectors. Demolition of blighted properties can’t begin without a proper inspection, but the city of Atlanta is losing qualified inspectors for higher paying markets. 
   2. Treasurer, Erin Nickson, provided an overview of the account to date. The balance in the CHNA treasury was $379, which included $34 collected at the February meeting.  
   3. Voting was held for all officers within CHNA. Results: Rolanda Powell (President), Addie Calhoun (Vice President), Erin Nickson (Treasurer), Secretary (VACANT), Historian (VACANT), Consultant (Chris Bartlett). 
   4. Chris Bartlett introduced the CHNA volunteer form once again. This form is to be used when identifying neighbors interested in serving in some capacity without chairing an committee. Chris Bartlett provided detailed review of the CHNA neighborhood development plan. This report included detailed information regarding parcels of land that should be of interest to CHNA as they are ripe for development, as well as information regarding our major revenue producers located with CHNA boundaries. Mr. Bartlett will continue to fine tune this plan and keep members of CHNA apprised of his findings and solicit feedback when needed. Thomas Nickson volunteered to work alongside Chris on this project.
   5. Misc: Residents expressed concern over blight/old food at the corner store located at DLH and James Jackson. Residents were encouraged to document obvious hazards with the appropriate regulatory agencies (Code Enforecement, Dept. of Health)
6. New Business: 
   1. Allen Holmes, of Councilman Dustin Hillis’ office, was in attendance and shared information regarding the DEV (Disabled, elderly, veterans) Legislation program aimed at stopping predatory reporting of homes that seniors refuse to sell for code violations. Their office is aiming to connect residents with resources to assist with lawn care, painting, etc via a grant of $250K. Allen Holmes shared info regarding the Georgia HOPE grant which enables non-degree holders to get a free certification in skilled trades (HVAC, plumbing, computer programming) via training at Atlanta Technical College. Residents encouraged the office to be conscious of barriers residents may find to completing the application (internet access, computer literacy, etc.) and asked their office to consider hosting computer literacy classes for seniors as well. Regarding Code Enforcement, Councillman Hillis’ office is pushing for an increase in pay for building inspectors. Demolition of blighted properties can’t begin without a proper inspection, but the city of Atlanta is losing qualified inspectors for higher paying markets. 
   2. Treasurer, Erin Nickson, provided an overview of the account to date. The balance in the CHNA treasury was $379, which included $34 collected at the February meeting.  
   3. Voting was held for all officers within CHNA. Results: Rolanda Powell (President), Addie Calhoun (Vice President), Erin Nickson (Treasurer), Secretary (VACANT), Historian (VACANT), Consultant (Chris Bartlett). 
   4. Chris Bartlett introduced the CHNA volunteer form once again. This form is to be used when identifying neighbors interested in serving in some capacity without chairing an committee. Chris Bartlett provided detailed review of the CHNA neighborhood development plan. This report included detailed information regarding parcels of land that should be of interest to CHNA as they are ripe for development, as well as information regarding our major revenue producers located with CHNA boundaries. Mr. Bartlett will continue to fine tune this plan and keep members of CHNA apprised of his findings and solicit feedback when needed. Thomas Nickson volunteered to work alongside Chris on this project.
7. Announcements: 
   1. Rhoda Brawner shared info regarding available grants to fund various initiatives. Rhoda shared this information with the respective members of the CHNA executive board for review/consideration.

Adjournment: 7:35 PM

Submitted by Erin Nickson
Treasurer

1. Meeting Called to Order by President, Ms. Rolanda Powell at 6:38 PM. 
2. Purpose and mission statement read by President Powell
3. Reading of October meeting minutes by President Powell
4. Minutes approved as read by President. 
5. President’s Report was given by Ms. Powell 
   1. President Powell shared info about the “Fireside Chat” with Clifford “T.I.” Harris at Georgia Tech. Questions from the general audience were not allowed, as they were predetermined from APS school students. CHNA membership will continue exploring alternative ways to engage Mr. Harris in the development of Center Hill.
   2. President Powell shared an update to the October 15^th meeting focused on addressing the DLH corridor and safety concerns as they relate to all communities along the route in advance of the November 19^th meeting. The DLH Transportation Safety Pre-Community meeting was attended by residents from 6 NPU’s, Andre Dickinson, Sheila Jones and Senator Horacina Tate among others. A request was made during this meeting to have access to the data/reports in advance of GDOT/MARTA townhall scheduled for Nov 19th. During this update, several JBM Tower residents stated that Ms. Williams confirmed for them that a request for a traffic calming light had been approved, but the date of installation was unknown. CHNA leadership will work to get additional information regarding GDOT timeline and official results of pedestrian study.
6. Report of the Committees:
   At this time, we are still in need of leadership for various committees. President Powell provided an overview of the committees as well as which ones have a vacant chair position.
   1. Zoning Committee
   2. Communications Committee
      1. The Center Hill Neighborhood Association logo, designed by our communications committee chair, was revealed to the general body. A brief explanation of the characteristics in the design were provided as context as well as news regarding the creation of a CHNA website.
   3. Education Committee
   4. Environmental Committee
   5. Public Safety Committee
   6. Finance Committee
      1. Treasurer, Erin Nickson, shared the status of the CHNA bank account. Balance to date after funds collected during November meeting is $345.
   7. Entertainment/Events Committee
   8. Beautification Committee
   9. New Business: 
      1. Due to the attendance at the November meeting, a motion was made and carried to postpone election of officers until the next general body meeting.
      2. Rolanda provided an introduction of the volunteer form as well as well as voting ballot  and how it will be used when appointing committee chairs.   
7. Announcements: 
   1. President Powell made a plea for CHNA members to begin attending the NPU-J meetings. NPU-J Meeting: Fourth Tuesday of each month- 7:00 PM at Frederick Douglas High School
   2. Consultant, Chris Bartlett provided extensive information regarding the work he’s conducting on developing the CHNA business plan. This report included detailed information regarding parcels of land that should be of interest to CHNA as they are ripe for development, as well as information regarding our major revenue producers located with CHNA boundaries. Mr. Bartlett will continue to fine tune this plan and keep members of CHNA apprised of his findings and solicit feedback when needed.

Adjournment: 7:35 PM

Submitted by Erin Nickson
Treasurer

1. Meeting Called to Order by President, Ms. Rolanda Powell at 6:33 PM. 
2. Purpose and mission statement read by President Powell
3. Reading of September meeting minutes by President Powell
4. Minutes approved as read by President. 
5. President’s Report was given by Ms. Powell 
   1. Public Safety: Discussion was had regarding the participation of Ms. Powell in a meeting with Atlanta Bicycle Coalition Executive Director, Rebecca Sema regarding mirroring their Memorial Drive efforts to spur change along DLH. Rolanda attempted to play video from the meeting, but due to sound distortion, a link will be shared on CHNA social media outlets. Rolanda, as a representative for CHNA, will continue engaging other community partners to find viable solutions for DLH.
   2. Upcoming meeting with key community stake-holders on October 15^th to address the DLH corridor and safety concerns as they relate to all communities along the route in advance of a November meeting.
   3. President Powell shared info about the upcoming “Fireside Chat” with Clifford “T.I.” Harris at Georgia Tech and her interest in speaking with him about future involvement in CHNA activities/discussion.
6. Report of the Committees:
   As no committees have been formalized at this time, no official reports have been submitted for the record. Miscellaneous items were addressed in the President’s report in the interim.
   1. Zoning Committee
   2. Communications Committee
      1. Rolanda introduced newly appointed Communications Committee chair, Jason Davis, to the general body. Jason brings a wealth of experience in web design and will continue work to build a CHNA website as well as craft an official logo. Jason also volunteered to cover the website domain hosting fees for two years via a donation of $150 to the CHNA treasury. Due to the amount, a vote was required to accept the donation. By vote, the donation was accepted.
   3. Education Committee
   4. Environmental Committee
   5. Public Safety Committee
      1. Update provided regarding the efforts made on behalf of Councilman Dustin Hillis in partnership with GDOT to track pedestrian traffic on DLH this morning in front of Johnnie B Moore Tower. Preliminary reports were that the outing was effective in arguing our case for increased traffic calming measures.
      2. Continued discussions were had around how neighbors can become active in reporting illegal dumping and other nuisance activities within CHNA boundaries.
7. Finance Committee
   1. Treasurer, Erin Nickson, shared the status of the CHNA bank account. Balance to date after funds collected during October meeting is $339.
8. Entertainment/Events Committee
   1. Erin Nickson shared a neighborhood Halloween activity in efforts to engage the adult residents during this season. Discussion was also had around compiling addresses of attendees who planned to participate in trick or treating. Suggestions were made to update home information on Nextdoor to indicate this in order for non-attendees to be kept in the loop as well.
9. Beautification Committee
   1. New Business: 
      1. Elections for CHNA executive board positions will take place at the next general body meeting (Thursday, November 7^th). All interested individuals are encouraged to review the bylaws for detailed explanation of duties and responsibilities.
      2. Rolanda provided an introduction of the volunteer form and how it will be used when appointing committee chairs.   
10. Announcements: 
    1. October Neighborhood Canvassing: Saturday, October 26^th. All interested neighbors should plan to meet at Johnnie B Moore tower at 10:00 AM. 
    2. NPU-J Meeting: Fourth Tuesday of each month- 7:00 PM at Frederick Douglas High School
    3. One-Corridor D.L. Hollowell Community Open House- Tuesday, November 18^th from 6-9. Location TBD

Adjournment: 7:38 PM

Submitted by Erin Nickson
Treasurer

1. Meeting Called to Order by President, Ms. Rolanda Powell at 6:33 PM. 
2. Purpose and mission statement read by President Powell
3. Reading of August meeting minutes by President Powell
4. Minutes approved as read by President. (Motion: Ms. Gwen Lee  Second: Mr. Chris Bartlett)
5. President’s Report was given by Ms. Powell 
   1. Public Safety: Discussion was had regarding a desire to identify vacant/unkept lots near Johnnie B. Moore Tower
   2. President Powell shared info about 311, planned code enforcement ride-along, how to report illegal dumping and loitering concerns near the pawn shop located within CHNA boundaries.
   3. Brief discussion surrounding the desire to create a unified Center Hill brand
   4. President Powell asked Treasurer Erin Nickson to provide a financial overview of the CHNA bank account. An online savings account has been established at Ally Bank. The total available balance (prior to the meeting) was $136. A total of $20 was collected by the conclusion of the meeting, bringing the total to $156.
6. Report of the Committees:
   As no committees have been formalized at this time, no official reports have been submitted for the record. Miscellaneous items were addressed in the President’s report in the interim.
   1. Zoning Committee
   2. Communications Committee
   3. Education Committee
   4. Environmental Committee
   5. Public Safety Committee
      1. Residents expressed concerns about the requests for traffic calming measures and seemingly “getting the run-around.” Rhoda Brawner planning a silent protest at corner in question on Monday, September 9^th. President Powell reminded residents that the association is still working behind the scenes to garner support from public officials and asked to be kept in the loop with any planned activities.
   6. Finance Committee
   7. Entertainment/Events Committee
   8. Beautification Committee
   9. New Business: 
      1. Consultant, Chris Bartlett shared details surrounding the importance of a Neighborhood Development Plan. It is imperative that CHNA be proactive and included in discussions surrounding how the neighborhood gets developed.
7. Announcements: 
   1. Carter Coleman of APD Urban Planning & Management, LLC attended the meeting. Despite not being on the schedule to present, President Powell allowed Mr. Coleman the chance to address the members. Latest developments in planning have the firm requesting a variance from NPU-J due to the City of Atlanta’s request for increased density. Although the entirety of the project now lies within Grove Park, APD and others are still committed to open communication with CHNA. APD is still planning to incorporate an urban garden with a designated unit for the garden overseer as well as space for a small grocer. The plan is to break ground Feb/March of 2020. The building will be four stories along Donald Lee Hollowell and increase to five as you move away from the street.

Adjournment: 7:38 PM

Submitted by Erin Nickson
Treasurer

1. Meeting Called to Order by President, Ms. Rolanda Powell at 6:33 PM. 
2. Reflection read by consultant, Chris Bartlett
3. Agenda Approved
4. Minutes approved as read by President
5. President’s Report was given by Ms. Powell 
   1. Ms. Powell provided an update to new attendees regarding the executive board membership, her personal background and investment in Center Hill as well as current membership recruitment efforts.
   2. Overview of the first Movies in the Park, which included a video montage and highlights of the activities.
6. Report of the Committees:
   As no committees have been formalized at this time, no official reports have been submitted for the record. Miscellaneous items were addressed in the President’s report in the interim.
   1. Zoning Committee
   2. Communications Committee
   3. Education Committee
   4. Environmental Committee
   5. Public Safety Committee
   6. Finance Committee
   7. Entertainment/Events Committee
   8. Beautification Committee
7. New Business: 
   1. Vecino Group presentation: A presentation regarding the proposed development at 2174 Donald Lee Hollowell was given by Mr. Jesse Wiles and Paul Robinson. The focus of the project is to be the economic catalyst for reinvestment in the community. The parcel of land in question was purchased by entertainer, Clifford “T.I” Harris and is slated to be an affordable housing mixed use community with a small grocery service and on-site gardening. The 150-165 unit development is slated to break ground the first quarter of 2020. The plan calls for 25 units to be reserved for children aging out of foster care. All units will be built to meet “market rate” standards of quality. Other services being considered are partnering with Federally Qualified Health Centers to increase access to care as well as the addition of an arts/cultural/recording studio and financial banking institution. Representatives promised the residents of CHNA that there will be ongoing community engagement as the development continues. At the end of the presentation, Mr. Wiles and Robinson promised to make themselves available after the meeting for additional questions.
   2. A presentation on the proposed by-laws was given by Consultant, Chris Bartlett. Mr. Bartlett provided a high-level overview which included discussion around the following topics: Center Hill neighborhood boundary lines, membership and dues, voting policies and elected officer. The by-laws, a 30 page governance document, were voted in as read after a motion from Chris Bartlett.  
8. Announcements: 
   1. Per Ms. Powell, discussions are underway with Salem Baptist Church secretary, Lillian Wilison, regarding future CHNA meetings being held at their place of worship. Pending confirmation, the meeting in August, and all subsequent meetings, will be held at Salem Baptist Church.
   2. Per Ms. Powell, CHNA member Lorenzo Powell has pitched the traffic light concern to three different media outlets (Veronica Waters from WSB Radio, Kiss 104 FM and Condance Presley at WSB TV community affairs) to highlight the urgent need. NPU-J Chair Keona Jones encouraged CHNA to speak with City Council President Felicia Moore and/or City Council member Dustin Hillis.
   3. Bulk trash pick-up has to be scheduled by calling 311. If you don’t call, you will be in violation as of July 1.  

Adjournment: 7:39 PM

Submitted by Erin Nickson
Treasurer