ADVISORY NEIGHBORHOOD COMMISSION 1B

Government of the District of Columbia

MINUTES

 

2 March 2006, True Reformer Building, 1200 U Street NW

 

Attending: Commissioners Moss, Spalding, Hammonds, Hunter, M. Smith, Stephens, Akinmboni,

                                            T. Smith, Mathews

Absent: Commissioners Z. Wright, R. Wright

 

Quorum was achieved just after 7PM.  Noting the presence of a large contingent interested in the possible sale of the Source Theatre, Chairman Hunter stated that we would consider that issue early in tonight’s meeting.  Treasurer Stephens presented the revised December report showing an initial balance of $79,718.50, expenditures of $3,707.03, and a final check book balance of $76,011.47.  December Treasurer’s Report was moved, seconded and adopted 9-0.  The January Treasurer’s report showed an initial balance of $76.011.47, expenditures of $4,015.00 (CK1594 to MLK Celebration Committee for $2,000, bank charges of $15, CK1595 to Roots Inc. for $2,000), and a resulting check book balance of $71,996.47.  January Treasurer’s report was moved, seconded and adopted 9-0.  Treasurer moved Secretarial expenses for February totaling $49.10, and reimbursement was moved, seconded and adopted 9-0.  Secretary Spalding moved adoption of the February minutes, and it was seconded and adopted 9-0. 

 

In Community Events and Announcements the Commission moved to discussion regarding the sale of the Source Theater.  Chairman Hunter stated that the Commission had heard at our February meeting from Bedrock Management about their intentions, but the Commission did not take any action on their request for support of a liquor license since they had not placarded to give the community notice.  John McGaw from the Deputy Mayor for Planning and Economic Development presented the District’s response to the possible sale of 1835 14th Street.  Mr. McGaw stated that the District government has invested almost a million dollars in Source Theater Company with the public intention of maintaining the space as an incubator theater in the Arts District.  The Deputy Mayor’s Office has been trying to work with Source Theater’s management to address issues which have resulted in the Source’s management choosing to sell the building.  The District’s participation in supporting the theater, however, does not prevent the ownership from selling the building.  Mr. McGaw stated that in his opinion the Source did not take reasonable and prudent action to save the theater prior to entering into the sales contract.  Source has responded by stating that their own studies show the theater is not financially viable.  The Deputy Mayor’s Office has asked Source management and Bedrock to allow a second feasibility study with the possible conclusion that the space be retained for theater use, and that Bedrock seek alternative commercial space in the neighborhood.  Chairman Hunter asked if the Deputy Mayor’s Office had consulted with the Attorney General, and Mr. McGaw responded that they have spoken with staff attorneys in the AG’s office.  A formal response has not been issued by the AG’s office, and Mr. McGaw stated that the attorneys consulted agreed that there is no leverage available for the District to intervene in the sale.  Commissioner Stephens asked for more background on the dispute over the viability of the operation, and Mr. McGaw stated that he has been unable to get Source management to share their documentation.  The historical model for Source involved both producing productions and maintaining the space, and I believe that their studies show this model to not be economically viable.  Due to financial pressures the theater has gone dark for the past two years, and has primarily been used as a rental facility by other performing groups.  Commissioner Stephens asked why Mr. McGaw was not proceeding with their own study, and Mr. McGaw stated that they are waiting for Source and Bedrock to agree to the process, and they do not want to appear to be interfering with the contract, which could result in a lawsuit that no one wants.  Commissioner Stephens reiterated his comment from the last meeting that provisioning of more bars, and only new bars in our neighborhood, does not necessarily serve the community all that well.  Chairman Hunter stated that a facility that size is absolutely inappropriate for a liquor establishment in that particular neighborhood.  Chairman Hunter indicated that he disagreed with the opinion that taking legal action should not be considered.  Commissioner T. Smith noted that with the current PUD’s in the community, that perhaps these might offer space appropriate for Bedrock’s use.  Commissioner Akinmboni asked if Source had offered the sale to current tenants, and Mr. McGaw responded that they had not.  Scott Bolden asked if anyone knows what Bedrock’s position is, and the fact that it appears that there is community opposition to the location might make them more approachable.  Matty Griffiths, managing director of Actor’s Theater of Washington, stated that it’s important for citizens to rise up and say that this is not sensible.  When Source went dark they notified other users of their intentions, but it has been nearly impossible to work with any of the members of their Board.  Mr. Griffiths stated that the companies that have been using the space are attempting to form a collaborative, which might ensure viability of the space.  Our business plan involves having a manager beholden to the building.  A number of our companies are growing, and this space can help others grow.  When I talked to one of the Commissioners about this problem he said that the space looked like it had been shut down, and it was a stealthy move on the part of Source, but with the current show there is a new marquee up.  We are planning an open house to show the community the space, and offering Ward 1 residents free passes to the current performance.  We want to show you that this can be a viable space.  Chairman Hunter sympathized with the concerns, but stated that the question is now one of process.  The ANC has a very limited role with only advisory powers.  Chairman Hunter stated that filing a lawsuit would give the city leverage to request the contract be reviewed and delay the sale.  Chairman Hunter asked Mr. Griffiths if they had retained an attorney, and Mr. Griffiths responded that they have approached some firms to see if they would accept the case pro bono, but have not had anyone accept it so far.  Jay Marks, an actor and Ward 2 resident, stated that the community needs more active theatre space, and that he was excited to see the space come to life recently.  Mr. Marks suggested that the power of the ANC might lie in the approval of the liquor license, and that if the Commission were to indicate to Bedrock that this might be actively opposed, then perhaps that would lead them to reconsider the purchase.  Jennifer Diehl spoke to the character of the neighborhood.  Noting the shooting around the corner a few nights ago, Ms. Diehl stated that theaters bring in a very broad range of patrons.  Please keep in mind the recent history of this neighborhood and the inclusion of an incubator.  Where does the new history come from?  Chairman Hunter stated that airing this before the ANC has been productive, but the real powers to approach are the Mayor and the City Council members.  Chairman Hunter moved that ANC1B go on record as opposed to the sale of the Source Theater to Bedrock, and that we request that the Mayor and Councilmember Jim Graham urge the Attorney General to take action to stop the sale, and it was seconded.  Chairman Hunter urged the legal action to delay the sale and to make available documents that have not been available so far.  Commissioner Mathews requested that we contact Bedrock and urge them to find an alternative space.  Motion passed (8-0-1) with Commissioner Spalding abstaining.  Commissioner Stephens moved that the ANC look at the character of the neighborhood, the mixture of businesses in the neighborhood, and that with the number of liquor licenses already existing, that we are in favor of a diverse mixture of businesses in the neighborhood.  Motion was seconded and adopted 9-0.

 

Chairman Hunter introduced review of the benefits package associated with the Broadway Atlantic PUD in Zoning Case 05-17.  This is a substantial new development planned for Commissioner Moss’ SMD that includes 650 to 700 units, and this Commission initially had problems with the number of affordable units included in the design.  We have met with the developer and now consider the fifteen percent affordable unit composition acceptable.  Additionally this developer has agreed to giving some $100,000 in cash for various community organizations and programs.  Over the course of the last two months members of the Commission, the Executive Committee and others, has worked diligently to come up with some recommendations that we could submit to Zoning to detail this expenditure.  Chairman Hunter read into the record the list:

 

1) $20,000 to Housing Counseling Services, Inc. for the creation and representation of tenant associations in apartment buildings converting to condominiums in the ANC1B area.

 

2) $15,000 for the purchase of historic street signs, call boxes, and history plaques in LeDroit Park.

 

3) $5,000 for the Mary Terrell house restoration project in LeDroit Park.

 

4) $10,000 for the 1400 block of W Street—pilot public safety camera project and the contribution to a police workstation.

 

5) $10,000 to the Boys and Girls Club and Anthony Bowen YMCA for the development of a first tee program.

 

6) $10,000 to the Casey Tree Foundation for the planting of trees in areas of ANC1B with the greatest need

 

7) $10,000 for the development of a career exploration program for children in public housing developments in ANC1B

 

8) $5,000 to the Hospitality Review Panel for a pilot project involving business, residential and governmental stakeholders in the 1900 block of 9th Street

 

9) $10,000 to the MidCity Business Association for funding for the Green Team

 

10) $5,000 to the Westminster Neighborhood Association for the installation of a playground sprinkler system.

 

Commissioner Mathews noted that some of the choices are specific organizations, but that others are just general projects.  Speaking from the official position I think I need to see the specific organizations that these monies are going to go to prior to giving my approval.  Are there budgets submitted that we can review?  We need to have more information to review to make sure that this money doesn’t just get thrown out there.  Chairman Hunter responded that some of the choices to go to very specific organizations and projects, and that there are some that will require some more work.  The problem is that we had to give this list to Zoning, therefore if we did not specify the list then we’d have lost the chance to include them at any time.  The intention of the Commission is to continue to work through the details with the developer.  The Commission is not getting a check, and the developer is not writing a check either until the specifics are acceptable to both of us.  Commissioner Mathews asked what we will be approving this evening.  Chairman Hunter responded that we’d be approving this plan to spend the $100,000 according to the guidance of the list that I just read into the record.  Commissioner Mathews asked that if we approve this, then is this binding and what will be the effect on the items that are not fully detailed, and Chairman Hunter responded that in the agreement with the developer is to follow the list as submitted at this time.  In the event that one of these project does not come to fruition, that we then have the ability to find another use consistent with that purpose.  Commissioner Mathews stated, then that means that this is not legally binding, and Chairman Hunter responded that it is legally binding in that we have entered into this agreement with the developer, and are representing to the Board of Zoning that that is our intention.  If it becomes impractical to do something that we’ve stated here, then we would ask to redirect those funds for something else.  Commissioner Akinmboni asked if there would be an RFP issued, since there are other housing counseling services out there working with our community.  Chairman Hunter responded that no the monies to the Housing Counseling Services would not be subject to an RFP, however, on items where specific organizations have not been specified we could use an RFP process to make the awards, but we are not required to do that.  We don’t have to specify the organizations at this time.  We had a specific deadline to meet with Zoning, but we have some leeway to revisit the specifics.  Commissioner T. Smith asked about the deadline, and Chairman Hunter stated that the deadline has already passed.  Commissioner Mathews asked if we could return to the Zoning Commission and ask for an additional month to provide specific organizations and have an RFP process so that the spending of these monies could have some more specific systemization.  Chairman Hunter responded that no monies are being spent without systemization; these are just recommendations on how we recommend this money be spent.  The Commission has done a lot of work to generate this list, and no it is not feasible for us to ask Zoning for another month.  Commissioner Akinmboni stated that there are a lot of organizations working with children in ANC1B, so if we are going to give the money to anybody, it would only be fair for this organization to issue RFP’s and then vote on it.  Commissioner Stephens suggested that we should clarify our role in the middle of a process that represents a donation from the developer to the community, and for us to assume that we should have fiscal oversight over the process is beyond our practical capabilities and also our authority.  Question was called be Commissioner Moss.  In a roll call vote Commissioners Moss, Spalding, Hammonds, Hunter, Stephens voted Yea.  Commissioners M. Smith, Akinmboni, T. Smith, Mathews voting Nay.  Motion to call the question passed (5-4).  In a roll call on the motion to approve the suggested list of public benefits Commissioners Moss, Spalding, Hammonds, Hunter, M. Smith, Stephens, Akinmboni voted Yea.  Commissioners T. Smith and Mathews voted Nay, and the motion passed (7-2). 

 

Commissioner Stephens introduced consideration of BZA 17460, variances to allow a new apartment building to be located at 1412 Chapin Street.  This is a currently vacant lot near the end of Chapin Street.  They have presented to the Meridian Hill Neighborhood Association.  The applicant’s representative stated that the historic apartment building on this site was severely damaged in August 2000, and the city consequently ordered that the building be razed.  Applicant then applied for and received a variance from BZA in March of 2001.  The owner has now found a developer and is seeking identical relief from BZA as that issued in 2001.  Steve Schwatt, developer who will purchase and redevelop the property contingent on BZA approval of the variances, we are planning on building to the original design.  Applicant stated that Councilmember Graham is in full support of the project.  Commissioner Moss asked if the local neighborhood association was in support of their project, and whether they were supported by neighbors.  Applicant noted that the surrounding buildings were either vacant or the Nehemiah shopping center.  Commissioner Stephens asked applicant to supply specifics on the variances requested.  Applicant stated that the variances would allow them to replace the original building prior to its being razed.  We are asking for lot occupancy at 100% as opposed to the R5B allowed 60%, but the footprint of the preexisting building was at 100%.  We are going from a 1.8 FAR to a 4.8 FAR.  We are asking for 59’ in height as opposed to the allowed 50’, and the original building was at 59’.  Commissioner Stephens added that the preexisting building had an FAR of 5.25.  Applicant noted that the building would be at the bottom of the grade on Chapin Street, and that the extra nine feet of height would be inconsequential in the streetscape.  Commissioner Spalding mentioned that the project would include on site parking that was not a part of the original structure, and applicant responded that the parking would be at grade and almost at a 1/1 ratio.  Chairman Hunter asked if they could add parking to achieve the 1/1 ratio, and applicant stated that in order to do so they would have to go below grade, and that that would increase the cost the project passed along to purchasers.  We are committed to providing as much parking as practical.  Commissioner Moss asked again if they had the support of the neighborhood association, and applicant responded that they have met with the MHNA and have responded to their requests.  Commissioner Stephens moved support of the application before BZA, and that the applicant provide copies of the designs to the apartment buildings across the street from the site, and Commissioner Spalding asked that Commissioners Stephens and Spalding be designated to represent the application, and it was seconded.  Motion passed (9-0).

 

Commissioner Spalding introduced consideration of HPRB 06-178, which is redevelopment of the surface parking lot at the corner of Vermont and T Streets.  This is the result of a very long case before BZA that resulted in an agreement by the Prince Hall Mason’s to redevelop the site according to a specific schedule, and both Westminster Neighborhood Association and ANC1B are signatories to the BZA approved agreement.  Part of the agreement requires ANC1B to support the Lodge through the process of redevelopment, and architect Greg Zahn is here to present some initial considerations on massing and subdivision that will be before HPRB.  Mr. Zahn indicated that the Mason’s have entered into an agreement to sell the property to Macy Development to develop the property, and this is projected to be a matter of right zoning project.  What we are presenting is a subdivision into seven conforming R4 lots with a private alley to service parking and trash.  The parking will be at a 1/1 ratio for the fourteen units in the seven flats.  We are respecting the forty foot height restriction in R4, and we have met with WNA and are in talks with CSNA.  Commissioner Spalding asked if this would be before HPRB, and Mr. Zahn stated that they would be presenting in March on the massing and subdivision, and Commissioner Spalding stated that he would like a vote to allow him to support and represent these issues.  Wendy Carter Smith stated some reservations on Mr. Zahn’s ability to stick with promised design elements, and Mr. Zahn disagreed.  Commissioner Spalding moved that ANC1B support the conceptual massing and subdivision before HPRB, and designate himself to represent the Commission on this application, and it was seconded and adopted (9-0). 

 

HPRB 06-041 was tabled with applicant not present.

 

Commissioner Hunter introduced review of a request from DCRA regarding the placement of a food kiosk in the gas station in the 1400 block of W Street.  This is the corner where we have had ongoing drug activity and homicides, and I told DCRA that I thought it inappropriate.  Chairman Hunter moved that ANC1B write to the Zoning Administrator expressing our opposition to a fast food kiosk in this parking lot, and it was seconded and adopted (9-0).

 

Traffic Control Plan (TCP) for redevelopment of 1307 Clifton Street was introduced by Commissioner Hammonds.  Applicant stated that this is the TCP for a matter of right redevelopment of a fourteen unit condominium project.  This project will block the sidewalk and curb lane on the north side of the 1300 block of Clifton St. for ten to twelve months.  Commissioner M. Smith asked if they would be using Jersey barriers, and applicant said that they would.  Commissioner M. Smith responded that he was looking for a passage on the north side, and applicant stated that due to the excavation and the narrowness of the sidewalk they would have to block pedestrian traffic on the north side.  Commissioner T. Smith asked about setbacks, and applicant responded that they would be following all guidelines on setbacks.  Commissioner Stephens asked if they had spoken with the school, and applicant stated that he has not yet spoken with the school.  Chairman Hunter stated that it would be critical to inform the school about the disruption to traffic to the school, and that he should meet with the school as soon as possible.  Commissioner Hammonds stated that the building to be redeveloped has been a source of problems for the neighborhood, and that the renovation was welcomed by the neighbors.  Ernest Springs asked that the TCP take into consideration the school traffic, and noted that there are still people hanging out in the vicinity of the site and suggested that the site be lighted to discourage loitering.  Scott Pomeroy asked that the signage in front of the school be the professional plastic rather than the wood designs.  Commissioner T. Smith suggested that keeping the flag men available during the morning rush would be helpful.  Commissioner Stephens also asked the developer to ask DDOT if temporary traffic calming devices might also be considered due to the proximity of the school.  Commissioner Hammonds moved support of the Traffic Control Plan for 1307 Clifton Street, and it was seconded and adopted (9-0).

 

Commissioner Spalding introduced review of Duffy’s Irish Restaurant.  The voluntary agreement has been submitted to ABRA, and they should approve it next Wednesday.  Applicant has requested a stipulated license allowing him to sell alcohol once he is open for business.  Chairman Hunter reviewed the history of this contentious application.  We have worked hard to finally reach an agreement that the protesting parties have signed off on.  Commissioner Spalding moved that Duffy’s Irish Restaurant be allowed a stipulated license, and it was seconded.  Commissioner Mathews found it interesting that we have gone now four or five meetings in negotiations with Duffy’s, and in that time we have denied countless numbers of businesses liquor licenses for similar things, and we speak about how we don’t want to bring liquor establishments into our communities, but yet we negotiate new voluntary agreements and bend over backwards.  This is an outrage, and I want the record to reflect that this is an outrage.  Chairman Hunter responded that the protestants themselves signed off on this agreement, so there’s not one person still protesting this establishment.  We have spent a lot of work getting to this agreement.  In a roll call vote to approve a stipulated license for Duffy’s Irish Restaurant Commissioners Moss, Spalding, Hammonds, Hunter, M. Smith, Stephens, Akinmboni voted Yea.  Commissioners T. Smith and Mathews voted Nay.  Motion passed (7-2).

 

Commissioner Spalding introduced consideration of an entertainment endorsement for Café St. Ex.  This is a new licensing mechanism for ABRA, and the Commission should treat it like an application for a substantial change.  When licensees who are providing entertainment have not so specified in their original application or any substantial change applications add this feature, we are going to be reviewing the applications.  Café St. Ex is a popular restaurant on 14th Street that features dj’s and podcasting in their basement room, and John Snellgrove is here to represent the application. Mr. Snellgrove stated that they’ve been open for three years, and ABRA has in the new regulations decided that dj’s are a type of entertainment that requires the entertainment endorsement.  Chairman Hunter asked if this had been placarded, and Mr. Snellgrove responded that they have been placarded for about a month.  Commissioner Moss asked if they would have live bands, and Mr. Snellgrove responded that you must specify that in the application if you want to have that type of entertainment.  Commissioner Stephens asked why we weren’t podcasting our ANC meetings.  Commissioner Spalding moved that ANC1B support the application for an entertainment endorsement for Café St. Ex, and it was seconded and adopted (9-0).

 

Commissioner Spalding read through a long list of current protests and current standing of ABRA licenses.

 

Chairman Hunter introduced a grant application for $1,000 to Children’s Studio School to provide a gardening activities area.  Mr. Ed Bruske was present to represent the parents and teachers.  Chairman Hunter explained that the school had been using an empty lot, but the owner is no longer allowing them to use the lot.  Chairman Hunter asked if this grant was being sponsored by the school or a friends of the school, and Mr. Bruske responded that he is a parent of a student at the school.  There is no separate organization, just the parents working with the school.  Mr. Bruske added that there is a parent support organization, but this was not prepared through them.  Commissioner Mathews asked where the funding beyond the $1,000 was coming from, and Mr. Bruske responded that it’s coming out of his credit card at this point.  Treasurer Stephens reminded Mr. Bruske not to buy equipment with the ANC funds since that would mean ANC ownership of the tools.  Commissioner Moss reminded applicant of the reporting requirements of the ANC, and Mr. Bruske stated that he’s already started a receipt book.  Commissioner Mathews mentioned that he may know of other funding sources.  Chairman Hunter moved support of a grant of $1,000 to Children’s Studio School, and it was seconded and adopted (8-1) with Commissioner Spalding opposing.

 

Commissioner T. Smith introduced a grant application to DC Greenworks for $1,000 for traffic calming and beautification along Sherman Avenue.  This would involve raising the median in Sherman Avenue from Euclid north to Girard Street, and planting the new median with trees and perennials.  This group has been before us with plans for this work at previous meetings.  Commissioner Spalding asked if this project was working with a local neighborhood association, and John Bailey stated that he lives on the 700 block of Girard, and this is an effort that has been the effort of a collection of neighbors and we are routing the grant through DC Greenworks.  Commissioner Spalding noted that it would be advantageous to align with one of the organized neighborhood association like Pleasant Plains Civic Association, and Commissioner T. Smith responded that this has been presented and approved at meetings of the PPCA.  Mr. Bailey also mentioned that they have approached and presented to ANC1A as well, since this will eventually expand up into their territory.  Commissioner T. Smith moved support, and it was seconded and adopted (9-0).

 

Chairman Hunter discussed hiring Scott Pomeroy to help pull the forum on PUD’s together.  In order to organize these forums we need consulting and organizing help.  I move that we authorize the expenditure of $2,000 to Mr. Pomeroy to organize and promote the forum on PUD’s, and it was seconded.  Commissioner T. Smith asked for a description of the duties involved, and Commissioner Moss explained that it would entail securing a site, finding presenters, and promoting the forum.  Chairman Hunter added that it would entail historical research into benefit agreements and how they have worked.  Commissioner T. Smith asked about the hours of the commitment, and Chairman Hunter responded that the work would take as long as it takes to get the job done.  Commissioner Stephens added that we have budgeted for this type of assistance.  Commissioner Stephens suggested that he is familiar with drafting consulting contracts, and would be willing to put together a consulting contract for the Commissioner’s benefit.  Commissioner T. Smith responded that he would really like to have the contract to review before voting to expend the funds.  In a roll call Commissioners Moss, Spalding, Hammonds, Hunter, M. Smith, Stephens, and Akinmboni voting Yea.  Commissioners T. Smith and Mathews voting Nay.  Motion passed (7-2).

 

Scott Pomeroy introduced consideration of a new street banner program for 14th Street and U Street.  The MidCity Business Association in association with the African American Civil War Memorial are attempting to build a self sustaining program to provide street banners on the corridor.  Examples of the new banners were shown with the sponsor space in the lower 20% of the banner.  Fifteen to twenty percent of the banners would be reserved for local cultural attractions.  DDOT has required that since the sponsor lines are included, the ANC has to approve the project.  We hope to have the banners up by Jazz Appreciation month in April.  Commissioner Stephens asked for the locations, and Mr. Pomeroy stated that it would use existing infrastructure and there are limits to the number of banners per block.  Commissioner T. Smith asked the size of the banners, and Mr. Pomeroy responded that they will be 30” by 60”.  Commissioner M. Smith asked how far up 14th the program would run, and Mr. Pomeroy stated that it would only be going up to Florida Avenue at present, and we will come back on the area north of Florida Ave.  Chairman Hunter asked about spreading this type of program to Georgia Avenue, and Commissioner T. Smith responded that there are already banners on Georgia Avenue.  Mr. Pomeroy stated that this program is replicable in other areas once the demonstration is done.  There is also a problem with running north into Columbia Heights where they may want other banners.  Commissioner Moss moved support of the street banner program, and it was seconded and adopted (9-0).

 

Commissioner Spalding spoke to a motion passed by the Adams Morgan ANC in support of the reappointment of Maria Delaney as Director of ABRA.  I suggest that ANC1B adapt this resolution to support the reappointment of Ms. Delaney, and it was seconded and adopted (9-0).

 

Commissioner Mathews introduced Othniel Alphonse, one of the founding members of Basics Youth Learning Program.  This is a program with participation from Howard University and the businesses surrounding Howard University to run this mentorship program.  These programs work on Saturdays with participation from students across the city.  The students are required to find funding for their participation.  We have support from neighborhood businesses on Georgia Avenue.  We are hoping to get the program going this spring, and expect to come back to your April meeting with a grant application.  Chairman Hunter asked Mr. Alphonse to meet with him prior to the next meeting.  Commissioner T. Smith also asked Mr. Alphonse to meet with him. 

 

Commissioner Spalding presented a flyer produced by the Cleveland Park Civic Association regarding work on properties in the historic districts.  We have had a regular parade of illegal work being done, then stopped at a serious cost to the home owners.  I am planning on trying to get this flyer adapted to fit the Greater U St. and LeDroit Park historic districts.  I expect the cost involved only to involve paper and ink, but wanted to let the Commission know that I would be working on this.  Once the flyers have been produced in electronic and paper they would be passed along to the LPCA and CSNA for distribution.  Chairman Hunter added that this should be up on our web site, and in future newsletters.  Chairman Hunter asked if this needed financial support, and Commissioner Spalding responded that he only expected this to cost in terms of Commission paper and ink.  Commissioner Stephens asked who this would be distributed to, and Commissioner Spalding responded that the idea was to develop the flyer and then make it available to both the LPCA and CSNA in both electronic and paper formats for their use.  Chairman Hunter stated that he hopes this could be included in any ANC mailings.

 

Commissioner Spalding noted that today we heard from DDOT that 9 ½ Street is in actuality an alley.  So this is in truth 9 ½ Street Alley, and this may dispossess current constituents from their currently available parking.  I ask the Commission to encourage DDOT to find a way to allow these residents to continue to park in front of their homes, and this was taken a motion and seconded.  Commissioner Stephens asked what this entails, and whether this would have wider effects.  Commissioner Stephens stated that it would be more appropriate to suggest that the residents with permits be allowed to park there, and Commissioner Spalding responded that the difficulty is that the underlying zoning is industrial and these residents are not allowed RPP permits.  The Commission has asked that this zoning be changed, but with the current zoning and the change to alley status, these constituents are not going to be allowed to park anywhere.   Chairman Hunter offered a substitute motion that DDOT continue to allow people to park in this location, and additionally to request that the alley be rezoned for residential parking, and that if that requires changing the zoning map that we request that this be requested of Councilmember Graham.  Chairman Hunter offered a substitute motion that ANC1B support the provision of residential parking in the 9 ½ Street Alley, and it was seconded and adopted (9-0).

 

Commissioner Akinmboni spoke to the problems with after school programs and regulations.   Chairman Hunter responded that he is working on this with Councilmember Catania, and that he can work with Commissioner Akinmboni on this issue.   Commissioner Akinmboni also announced that they would be cleaning the Girard Playground on the 18th, and that everyone should come and help clean.

 

Meeting adjourned at approximately 9:30.