Sep 10, 2012 ... John Prine, part Dylan, part lonely cowboy swilling whiskey out on a ...... Fedko-
Nelson, activist and neighbor on the 400 block of Prospect SE ...
Heritage Herald
SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2012
The Newsletter of Heritage Hill
Volume XXXVIII, No. 5
Land Use Issues in Heritage Hill Land Use Changes in Heritage Hill The Heritage Hill Association reviews all land-use proposals for our neighborhood. This review process involves researching 538 Madison SE - (Former Heritage the request through meetings with the applicants, reviewing the application and how it relates to the Master Plan of Heritage Hill, Child Development Center) Submitted and soliciting feedback from neighbors HHA’s zoning committee reviews all this Land Use Issues in Heritage Hill through meetings, emails and conversations. The HHA's position letterdebates per HHA information and recommends positions to the HHA Board of Directors. With this recommendation, the Board andBoard determines its position and presents this stance to the respective body that deciding Heritage the issue. The Heritage Hill is one voice approval voicing noAssociation opposition to the 538City Madison SE is - (Former on all land-use matters but it also crucial for active neighbors to also make their voice 3-unit heard by the City’s decision makers. For more Development Center) Submitted request. At its August 23 Land Use on Issues in Heritage Hill issuesChild information this process and/or land-use in general, please contact your Association, 459-8950;
[email protected].
meeting, the Planning Commission (PC) HHA's position letter per HHA Board approved theDevelopment use as a 3-unit residential approval voicing no opposition the Child 538 Madison SE: (Formerto Heritage Center) HHA's 538 Madison SE - (Former Heritage position letter HHA Board approval submitted that voiced in no a dwelling with a3-unit required landscaping plan. Forwarded PCwas minutes to neighbors request. At itsper August 23 Child Development Center) Submitted opposition to theCommission 3-unit request. The rationale due to the unique 4-lot meeting, the (PC) 3-block area that details thePlanning approval language and explains thewas required landscaping parcel, available parking lotper and the 5,000 plus square foot former school HHA's position letter HHA Board approved thewill use as forthcoming. a 3-unit residential plan approval process that be building. The Planning Commission dwelling with a required landscaping plan. Forwarded(PC) PC approved minutes to neighbors in a approval voicing to the the useno as aopposition 3-unit 3-block area that details the approval explains required landscaping Formerlanguage Crescentand Street Floralthe building -with Diane Griffin, 23 residential dwelling a required 3-unit request. At its August plan approval process that willGriffin be forthcoming. plan.is interested in Properties Reallandscaping Estate group,
meeting, the Planning Commission (PC)
purchasing this building for use asthe herStreet realas estate Former Crescent Floral approved use a 3-unit residential Former Crescent Street Floral office. buildingIt -needs Diane aGriffin, building: Diane zoning variance to Griffin, changeGriffin use from dwelling with a required landscaping plan. Forwarded PC minutes to neighbors in a Griffin Properties Real Estate group, is interested in this building Properties Real Estate group, is interested in purchasing usesecond as her real retail sales to commercial office.for The story will 3-block area that theasapproval language and explains the required purchasing this building for use her estate estate office. It needs adetails zoning variance to real change use from retail to commercial office. landscaping continue as residential use. sales HPC has given an advisory The second story will continue as residential use. HPC has given an advisory regarding a office. It needs a zoning variance to change use from plan approval process thatregarding will be forthcoming. a NE. reconfigured parking lotZoning with egress on reconfigured parking lot with egress on Union The issue is before the Appeals Board retail sales to commercial office. The second story will Union NE. The issue is before the Zoning Appeals on October 18. continue as residential use. HPC has given an advisory Former Crescent Street Floral building - Diane Board on October 18. Griffin, 421-23 Madison SE: The potential buyer contacted regarding a reconfigured parking lot with egressHHA on
Griffin Properties Real Estate group,Appeals isagreement interested in regarding purchase of is this home. HisZoning purchase Union NE. The issue before the for 421 Madison SE was contingent on being granted aestate 3-unit 421-23 Madison SE - Spoke with potential purchasing this building for use as her real Board on October 18. variance of this currently zoned single family home. There buyer regarding purchase of this home. office. It needs a zoning variance to change use from is a finished purchase agreement for 421 Madison 421-23 Madison SE - Spoke with His potential retail sales to commercial office. Theunit second story on the 3rd will SE was contingent on being granted a 3buyer regarding purchase of this home. that continue as residential use. HPC has floor given anhas advisory unit variance of this currently zoned single Hisexterior purchase agreement for 421 Madison regarding a reconfigured parking lot an with egress on entrance but has WYCE Trick Concert family There is a finished unit on SE was contingent on being granted aHat 3-home. Union NE. The issue is before the Zoning Appeals ToHat Benefit Pleasant Park has an exterior entrance not used of this currently WYCEzoned Trick Concert unitbeen variance single the 3rd floor that for a long time. WYCE Hat Trick Board on October 18. November 5 7:30 pm family home. There is a finished unit on not beenConcert but has used for a long time.
To Benefit Pleasant Park
It was explained OneTo Trick Pony Pleasant Park Benefit the 3rd floor entrance that it would be nearly to him that it that has an exteriorExplained Heritage Hill is doing a hat trick concert and all November 5potential -get 7:30 but has not beenMadison used for aSE long time. - Spoke with impossible to apm 3-unit variance due to would be421-23 nearly proceeds will go to building Pleasant Park. WYCE Hat Trick Concert One Trick Pony Explained that it would be nearly The artist is Midwest songwriter, Jeffrey Foucault impossible to and the history of the house current zoning code. A 2-unit may be a slim possibility buyer regarding purchase of this home. To Benefit Pleasant Parkis described as part John Prine, part whose music get a 3-unit to get a 3-unit variance due to impossible Dylan, Another part lonely cowboy swillingawhiskey outconcert on has a but neighbors needed to be polledagreement for their feedback. party Heritage Hillinterested is doing hat trick and all His purchase for 421 Madison November 5 - 7:30 pm variance dueof tothe the house historyand of the house and current zoning moonlit prairie. Do your part for our own 2.5 acre the history current zoning code. A 2-unit may be a slim possibility proceeds will go to building Pleasant Park. submitted a comparable offer for use as a single family home. His grandparents moonlit prairie -Pleasant Park. The concert is free One Trick Pony code. A 2-unit may be a slim possibility buttheir neighbors needed SE was contingent onparty being granted apassed 3The is Midwest songwriter, Jeffrey Foucault but a hat willartist beHill with all donations benefitting but neighbors needed to be polled for feedback. interested Heritage is doing afamily's hat trick and all owned the house fromAnother the 1920's-1973 and hehas wants to live in his former whose music is described as part John Prine,concert part to be polled for their feedback. Another interested party the Park. Be there! unit variance of this currently zoned single Heritage Hill is doing a lonely hat trick concert and all whiskey submitted a comparable offer for use as a single family home. His grandparents http://www.jeffreyfoucault.com Heritage Hill is doing a hat trick concert and Dylan, part cowboy swilling out on a proceeds will go tohome building Pleasant Park. submitted a comparable offer for home. use as aRequested single familyahome. letter stating this interest in proceeds use aswill a single family as this go to prairie. building Pleasant Park. moonlit your part for our own 2.5 acre allThe proceeds will go toDo building Pleasant Park. owned the houseowned from the thehouse 1920's-1973 and he wants to live in his There former is family's family home. a finished unit on His grandparents from the 1920's-1973 and The artist is Midwest songwriter, Jeffrey Foucault artist is Midwest songwriter, Foucau would help to negate any zoning consideration that themoonlit house is not viable asThe it concert is prairie -- Pleasant Park. isJeffrey free whose music is described as part John Prine, part The arti st is Midwest songwriter, Jeff rey home. Requested a letter interest in use as a single family home as this he wants to live in his formerstating family'sthis home. HHA requested a the 3rd floor that has an exterior entrance but a hat will be passed with all donations benefitting whose music described currently zoned. There is no variance request filed atpart this date. lonely cowboyis swilling whiskey outas on apart John Prine, par Foucault music letter this interest in zoning use as aconsideration single family home as this thewhose Park. Be there!is described as part wouldstating help to negate any that the house isbeen not viable asfor it isDylan, moonlit prairie. Do your part for our own 2.5 acre but has not used a long time. http://www.jeffreyfoucault.com Dylan, part lonely cowboy swilling whiskey out o would helpzoned. to negate any is zoning consideration that the at house John Prine, Dylan, lonelyis cowboy moonlit prairie -- part Pleasant Park. part The concert free currently There no variance request filed this date. Explained that it would be nearly but a hat will be passed with all donations benefitting moonlit prairie. your part forDoour own 2.5 acr is not viable as it is currently zoned. There is no variance swilling whiskey out onDo a moonlit prairie. Park. Be there! request filed at this date. impossible http://www.jeffreyfoucault.com to get a 3-unit the variance due moonlit prairie Pleasant Park. The concert is fre your part for our to own--2.5 acre moonlit prairie
November 5 - 7:30 pm One Trick Pony
-- Pleasant concert freewill but abe hatpassed will be passed all the history of theWith house and current zoning mayPark. be The a slim possibility but aishat with with all donations benef Martha's Vineyard: all the approvals in hand, the code. A 2-unit donati ons benefi tti ng the Park. Be there! demolition of the middle Lyon street building and its theparty Park. has Be there! but neighbors needed to be polled for their feedback. Another interested (Cont'd on page 6) http://www.jeffreyfoucault.com submitted a comparable offer for use as a single family home. His grandparents owned the house from the 1920's-1973 and he wants to live in his former family's home. Requested a letter stating this interest in use as a single family home as this
The Heritage Hill Association 126 College S.E. Grand Rapids, MI 49503 616-459-8950 Fax: 616-459-2409 Hours: 9 am - 5 pm, Mon. - Fri.. Answering machine available for after-hours messages. EMAIL:
[email protected] WEBSITE: www.heritagehillweb.org Purpose: The purpose of the Heritage Hill Association is to provide neighbors a way of collectively building a healthy, historically preserved community in which people can live and work in a secure and stable environment. Office Staff: Jan Earl, Executive Director Barb Lester, Crime Prevention Organizer Maria Zache, Administrative Assistant Wilhelmina Daniels, Afternoon Receptionist The Heritage Hill Association Board of Directors President **Jim Payne, 27 College NE, (H) 454-2367 Vice President **Jaime Misner, 303 Madison SE, (H) 454-3309 Treasurer *Jackie Taylor, 5155 N Quail Crest Dr SE, 49546 (C) 446-8060 Secretary *Kate Diedrich, 536 Prospect SE, (H) 451-9211 *Peter Albertini, 540 Prospect SE, (C) 291-3758 *Deb Bryker, 6601 36th Av, Hudsonville 49426, (H) 669-6754 **Mike Clark, 310 Washington SE, (C) 644-6453 *Suzanne DeHaan, 573 Prospect SE, (H) 742-0451 *Stephanie Eckley, 533 Gladstone SE *Tansy Harris, 537 Prospect SE, Apt. 3 **Nikki Hoort, 2062 Anderson SE; EGR 06, (W) 454-8305 *Vicki Hudson, 250 Morris SE, (W) 234-4206 *Mark Hutchison, 38 Prospect SE, (c) 312-502-6300 *Mary Robinson, 220 Union SE, (H) 459-2119 **Steve Yared, 259 Morris SE, (H) 454-2703 * 1st Term ** 2nd Term
The Heritage Hill Association Board of Directors meets at 7 pm the third Wednesday of each month at GRCC East Campus, 415 East Fulton. The meeting is in the Robert Sneden Lecture Hall #1 and is open to the public.
North Heritage Hill
South Heritage Hill
Connected Hope your summer was fun! As we begin the second fall season without the intensity of a Home Tour orchestration (but yes we are in the throws of planning the spring 2013 Tour), it's great to have the time to stroll the amazing ArtPrize. What a gift this exhibition is to our community. Enjoy the show. When that community gift strikes you, think about opening your home for Heritage Hill's own ArtPrize. We call it HOME TOUR. There's not a money prize but your neighborhood association will Prize YOU! If you are a tenant and want to share your home, ask your landlord for approval. Tour promotes the various housing opportunities in Heritage Hill and apartments are a substantial part of our neighborhood. A big, big thank you goes out to Saint Mary's Hospital. They will be hosting a fund development luncheon for your Association that will bring neighboring
institutions and Grand Rapids businesses together to give a plea for contributions to the Heritage Hill Association. As the Association's budget continues to dwindle due to various funding declines, we surely need new contributors. Saint Mary's kicked off the campaign with a generous donation. Thank You! There have been lots of issues of late (when aren’t there?). We try our best to get the word out to neighbors and we would like your feedback. Please realize the frailties of communication – emails sometimes do not get delivered; you’ve changed yours and forgot to tell us; the flyer at your door blew away… Please know that you are invited, we are asking you, we want you to be involved and we want you to be active. Call us, email us if you have questions, concerns and need information. Please connect! See you strolling the street – Jan Earl, Executive Director
Located in Historical Heritage Hill
Heritage Hill Association Committee Chairs Block Rep: Barb Lester, 459-8950 Garden Tour: Jim Payne, (H) 454-2367 Finance: Jackie Taylor, (W) 942-5941 Newsletter: Jan Earl, 459-8950 Pledge Drive: Jackie Taylor, (H) 942-5941 Preservation: Jaime Misner, (H) 454-3309 Traffic and Mike Clark, (C) 644-6453 Parking: Barb Lester, (W) 459-8950 Zoning: Craig Nobbelin, 458-0471 Home Tour: Judy Jorgenson, 454-2583 Staffing: Chris Truesdale, 456-5448 Sue Karsen, 455-1223 Distribution: Don Rietema, 776-1716 Publicity:
Tom Truesdale, 456-5448
The Heritage Herald - Circulation 4,800 The Heritage Herald is published by the Heritage Hill Association Board of Directors six times a year (bi-monthly). The views and opinions expressed are not necessarily those of the Board of Directors. We reserve the right to edit. Address correspondence to The Heritage Herald, 126 College SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49503.
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Typography & Printing: Storr Printing Services, Inc.
PHOTO BY MR. BOB SMITH
The Heritage Hill Foundation Board of Trustees Chairman Barbara L. Roelofs, 227 College SE, 459-0091 James Booth Burr, Jr., 1244 Lake Drive SE, 458-1246 Sam Cummings, 15 Ionia SW, 458-5235 George Dennis, 2685 Cascade Springs Dr., 456-9353 Rebecca Smith Hoffman, 454-5373 Jim James, 3082 Thornapple River Dr. SE, 949-8484 Milt Rohwer, 30 College SE, #64, 235-7528
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Be in the kNOw Serve on your Heritage Hill Association Board of Directors The call is out for candidates to seek election to the HHA Board. Five seats are open for the annual election that takes place at the Holiday Potluck and Annual Meeting on November 29, 2012. (Save that date on your calendar). The Board terms are for 3 years that begin on January 1, 2013 and end December 31, 2015. The absolute deadline for submitting your candidacy is October 28, 2012. This slate will appear along with a brief statement from each candidate in the November/ December Herald. (The HHA Bylaws state that Board candidates need to submit their candidacy to the of�ice 30 days before the annual meeting.) To serve, Board members must be residents of the Heritage Hill neighborhood or be paid non-resident members. It is also helpful to have been somewhat active in Association activities, committees or neighborhood block clubs, but this is not a requirement to serve on the Board. The duties of Association Board members include:
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Monthly Board Meetings - the third Wednesday of the month approximately 2 hours long - 7:00 pm to 9:00 pm. Chairing or active participation on a HHA committee - monthly or quarterly meetings. Some committees such as Tour demand more of a time commitment. Attendance at HHA sponsored events - i.e. Tour, fund-raising, and social events. Actively representing your neighbors to the Board. Actively representing the Board to your neighbors.
The Board wants and needs active leadership in the organization and representation from the entire neighborhood. If that’s not enough, there are treats at all meetings! If you or someone you know wants to serve (please obtain their permission), please call the Association office at 459-8950 or email to
[email protected].
Youth Job Training Building Bridges offers meaningful training and jobs for Grand Rapids youth who, as employees of the program, maintain vacant and foreclosed properties and provide top-notch, affordable landscaping and construction services to the community. Empowering youth and reducing blight, Building Bridges is a partnership between Bethany Christian Services and Urban Family Ministries. For further information contact, Nathan Beene at
[email protected] or call 616-828-6144.
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GARDNER K ENT C OUNTY P ROBATE C OURT V OTE T HE N ON P ARTISAN J UDICIAL BALLOT T UESDAY N OVEMBER 6, 2012 Visit the Judge’s Web Site @ Reelectjudgegardner.com Paid for by Committee to Re-elect Judge Patricia Gardner
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to our recent Heritage Hill Association contributors: Bylsma Painting LLC Mark Dykstra Philip and Linda Nordstrand North College Block Club Saint Mary’s Health Care
New Pay As You Throw Refuse Cart Program The City of Grand will be changing its curbside refuse collection program. The successful single-stream curbside recycling program increased citywide recycling tonnage by 80% and lowered citywide refuse tonnage by 11%. In the second phase of improving waste services, the City will provide a state-of-the-art curbside refuse collection cart program that will charge customers based on the volume of their refuse. The following are a few important details of the new program.
· The City’s new Pay As You Throw model of using refuse carts is exactly the one used by private refuse haulers. The City will offer a better deal unlike the private companies that charge a flat monthly fee. The City will only charge residents when they place their cart at the curb—this is pay-as-youthrow. If a resident is on vacation, they will not pay. If a resident can skip a week and put out their trash after two weeks, they will only pay for one emptying of their cart. Also unlike the private companies, the City will offer three sizes of refuse carts. The combination of selecting the right cart size for your family and having the option of placing the cart at the curb only when it is full, will permit residents to better control their refuse costs. · The City will deliver refuse carts at no charge to any resident wishing to participate in the program.
· Refuse customers currently using a City refuse cart will continue using the same cart should they participate in the new program. You will be charged each time that you place the cart at the curb and the City empties your cart. The charge would be $2 for a 35 gallon, $4 for a 64 gallon and $6 for a 96 gallon cart. You will only be changed when your cart is presented at the curb. · The City will use RFID computer chip technology to track its refuse carts. Without ever leaving the truck, the driver can tell if the cart was stolen or belongs to another address. This should end the City’s problem with stolen refuse tags.
· Customers will manage their own accounts similar to a pre-paid phone card or a childs' school lunch account. Monies can be deposited through the internet, sending a check via mail, in-person to the City's office or through an IVR phone system. This will also be how customers can (Cont'd on page 6)
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Martha's Vineyard: Land Use Changes (cont'd from page 1) With all the approvals in
hand, the demolition of the middle Lyon street
replacement parking lot can proceed. It willand likely pushed to theparking new yearlot as can building itsbereplacement Martha's does not want any disruption throughout the very busy holiday season.
proceed. It will likely be pushed to the new
State Street: A Build a Better Block event is planned for the Saturday of the 2013 Home year Martha's Vineyard: With all the approvals inas Martha's does not want any disruption Tour weekend, May 18. More details of this interactive daybusy will be coming as plans are throughout the very holiday season. hand, the demolition of the middle Lyon street further developed. A Native American Health Center has purchased 311 State Street building and its replacement parking lot can (former Gateway School building). This proceed. It will likely be pushed to the new use is allowed under the current zoning of year as Martha's does not want any disruption Michigan Street Corridor Plan: HHA continues to participate the property. Details of this new business throughout the very busy holiday season. in this 2-year planning process. will be coming in future Herald articles.
Michigan Street State Street: A Build a Better Block event is planned for the MichiganPlan: Street Corridor Plan: HHA continues to participate Corridor in this 2-year planning process. Saturday of the 2013 Home Tour weekend, May 18. More HHA continues to participate details of this interactive day will be coming as plans are for the inState this Street: 2-year A Build a Better Block event is planned further developed. A Native American Center has purchased Saturday of the 2013 Home Tour weekend, May 18. More planning 311 State details of this interactive day will be coming as plans areStreet (former Gateway School building). This use process. is allowed Aunder current zoning of the property. Details of this new business will be further developed. Nativethe American Center has purchased Mary FreeStreet Bed (former Gateway School building). This use 311 State coming in future Herald articles. Hospital willproperty. Details of this new business will be is allowed under the current zoning of the be before the Grand Rapids Planning coming in future Herald articles. Heritage Hill Association’s Land-Use Review process – The Association reviews all landCommission on October 11 seeking approval for their planned addition to proposals neighborhood. Heritage Hill Association’s Land-Use use Review process –for Theour Association reviews allThis land-review process involves researching the the main hospital. The expansion will be through with thethe applicants, reviewing the application and how it use proposals for our neighborhood.request This review processmeetings involves researching to thethrough west side of the current hospital request meetings with the applicants, the application and how itHill, and soliciting feedback from neighbors relates toreviewing the Master Plan of Heritage building and present a more pedestrian relates to the Master Plan of Heritage Hill, and soliciting feedback through meetings, emailsfrom andneighbors conversations. The HHA’s zoning committee reviews all friendly facade along Jefferson. Mary Free The through meetings, emails and conversations. HHA’s zoning committee reviews all this and recommends positions to the HHA Board of Directors. With this hosted a community meeting on information thisBed information and recommends positions to the HHA Board of Directors. With this September 24 and shared their plans. No recommendation, the Board debates recommendation, the Board debates and determines its position and presents thisand determines its position and presents this opposition was voicedCity andbody the Association stance to the City body stance to the respective that is deciding therespective issue. The Heritage Hill that is deciding the issue. The Heritage Hill is currently in its review process. It matters but it also crucial for active neighbors to Association is one voice on all land-use Association is one voice on all land-use matters but it also crucial for active neighbors to appears likely that this project will be also make their voice heard by the City’s makers. For more information on this alsodecision make their voice heard by the City’s decision makers. For more information on this supported. If the Planning Commission process and/or land-use issues in general, please contact your Association, 459-8950; approves the proposed addition, work process and/or land-use issues in general, please contact your Association, 459-8950;
[email protected]. will begin in November.
[email protected].
Refuse Cart Program (cont'd from page 5)
check their balances and tip history should they wish. A method is being evaluating of sending via mail a statement on account balances and tip history - but the regular quarterly invoices will be discontinued. The City will not collect or store bank account information on customers. In addition, the City will be able to push information out about the program through e-mail, text or mailings when necessary. · The City’s neighborhood associations have reported to the City that a significant problem in our neighborhoods are when trash is placed at the curb in a plastic bag, then the bag becomes broken and trash blows around the neighborhood. By providing refuse carts to residents, this should minimize trash blowing around.
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City Charter Amendment - You get to decide our City's future
I want to take this opportunity to tell you about the unique opportunity you have to fundamentally change the City’s financial management structure. On the ballot this November you will find a Charter Amendment that, if passed, will change the selection process of my position, consolidate departments, eliminate inefficiencies, save money, and create a modern day financial management structure. You get to decide our future. As you may know, the Comptroller is the City’s chief accountant keeping track of the money the City spends. Currently, the two qualifications necessary to serve as Comptroller are to live in the City of Grand Rapids and to win an election. As the chief accountant, I recommended a Charter Amendment to the City Commission that would change the selection process of the Comptroller from elected to appointed by the City Manager and confirmed by the City Commission. The City Commission voted unanimously to place the Amendment on the November ballot. If the amendment passes, all the responsibilities, duties, powers, and authorities given currently to the Comptroller in the Charter will remain. But this proposal is much more than a change in the selection process – it’s a consolidation of two positions and two departments. This change would merge the Chief Financial Officer (CFO) with the Comptroller and provide the Comptroller with those responsibilities assigned to the CFO such as budgeting, purchasing, and debt authority. In addition, this change would require the Comptroller have credentials such as being certified by the accounting industry and have years of experience in finance and leadership. These qualifications are not currently required of the City’s chief accountant. This new design best represents a modern day financial structure. Remember, you get decide our future. - Donijo Robbins De Jonge, City Comptroller
Election Day Nov. 6th Remember to Vote! 7
N eighborhood Potpourri CRIME Vehicle Break-ins: There was an increase in the number of vehicle break-ins during August and September but this has seemed to wane starting the week of September 10. Make sure to take everything out of your car. Home Burglary: There has also been a decline in the number of home burglaries after the first week of September. We warned many neighbors through alert
fliers and E-Alerts and the police are working hard to catch suspects in the act. Neighbors have done a good job reporting suspicious persons to the police as well. Keep up the great work. Helpful hint: Keep your exterior lights on all night long. Along with the street lights, your porch light provides a good view of your home and yard. That makes your block and pedestrians less vulnerable to crime.
Straight Talk about Neighborhood Pet Peeves: Loud parties: You are not allowed one loud party a year despite the rumors you may have heard from people who lived here in the 1960’s. Loud parties can draw attention to your house and police may arrive at the most inopportune moment – you know what I am talking about. Court fines and costs can be $295 and if you have another problem like a small amount of pot or there are under-agers drinking, the problems mount. Student loans can be affected for possession of drugs. Lawn Parking: It might seem like a great way to reduce clogged streets but parking on the front, back or side yards is against the law. The owner of your building may be contacted by the city.
Fire in the YARD! Despite what you have heard, the Grand Rapids Fire Department does not allow outdoor fire-pits. You can use a traditional grill for food preparation but firepits draw firefighters and that can cost you.
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HHASavethedateMINE.pdf 1 3/18/2011 10:43:48 AM
by Barb Lester
Roof parties: We get reports of neighbors using upper porches and flat roofs for gatherings of 4, 6 8 and twelve people. The homes are very old and porches are not able to withstand that heavy load on a regular basis. Allowing this use may create liability for the tenant and the owner. Last fall a man leaned against an upper porch rail, it broke and he fell to the ground and injured himself. If a roof is damaged, you could lose your damage deposit.
2013 Weekend Tour of Homes
2013 Weekend Tour of Homes May May 18 18and and1919
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The yard where you rent: Check your lease agreement. If it states you are responsible for mowing and snow shoveling you should find a mower and a shovel. The City requires lawns be mowed and sidewalks shoveled during during the winter. If there is no mention of this in the written lease or rental agreement or addendum, then the owner is likely responsible. In either case the owner will receive a notice from the city if the work is not done. Don’t wait until the last minute. Trash and Recycling Carts: These are not lawn ornaments. The city requires them to be placed next to or in back of your home except on pick-up days which are Tuesday if you live on the south side of Wealthy and Wednesday if you live on the north side of Wealthy.
Weekend Tour of You Homes Your Neighborhood Needs Need (Your House too!)
Your Neighborhood Needs Need You (Your House too!)
Tour is the Association’s biggest fundraiser promotion of Heritage Hill. May 21 & 22, and 2011 You’ve always wanted to open your house. The Home Tour committee is Tour is the Association’s biggest fundraiser and promotion of turn! Heritage currently recruiting for the 2013 Tour and beyond. It is your AndHill. we would be very, very appreciative! Call HHA at 459-8950 for all the details You’ve always wantedwww.heritagehilltours.org to open your house. The Home Tour committee is and how easy it is to be a Tour host!
currently recruiting for the 2013 Tour and beyond. It is your turn! And we would be very, very appreciative! Call HHA at 459-8950 for all the details and how easy it is to be a Tour host!
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ROBERT I. DANIELS P.O. Box 68492 Phone 616.827.8473
Grand Rapids MI 49508 Fax 616.827.8828
Thanks for cooperation on the following issues. State Street: The new Vision of State Street is getting clearer and the final document is in the works. A community vision-sharing session seeking input and support will be held this fall or winter.
Picnic: A great evening of fun for all who attended. Our brats and dogs were so good we served all 200 of them. Wonderful homemade dishes-to-pass brought by neighbors filled the rest of our plates. Recipes have been requested. If you brought a dish, send in your recipe and we will publish it in the next Herald. The Association is so appreciative of the good food that was shared and for the volunteers listed below who helped out. Mark Dykstra, Steph Eckley, Stephanie Gerdis, Tansy Harris, Vicki Hudson, Mark Hutchinson, George Kuiper, Don Rietema, Mary Robinson, Mike Sak, Tom Simmons. Special thanks to Saint Mary’s Health Care for co-sponsoring the Night Out Picnic.
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Board Notes Discussion at the August, 2012 Heritage Hill Association Board Meeting included: Treasurer’s Report – Jan’s overall comment as of the end of July is that the situation is “not rosy and not dire.” The rental service income continues to decline.
Staff Reports – Members were directed to (and there was some discussion pertaining to) Jan and Barb's written reports that were included in the Board packet. Mike Clark commented that the submitted Great Neighborhoods application is GREAT and that we will know the results in October. Jan commented on the continued lack of progress at the former Bethlehem Lutheran Church property. Various developers of the property have backed out of the project due to financial restraints. Barb commented that the Picnic photos are on the Web site and Facebook.
Community Involvement – Steph Eckley Social Media – The committee presented the draft code of conduct. The code will be presented as an Action Item at the September board meeting. Education – Mary reported that the new UPrep building is being built on Division and that the Child Discovery Center is installing playground equipment. Jan commented that GRPS and the City are producing a joint newsletter that is mailed to GR residents - a great partnership. Land Use Issues – Mike Clark Preservation/zoning/State Street – Mike reported that he and Barb had met with Lynee Wells regarding a Build a Better Block event. This event has been staged in cities throughout the country and it is coming to State Street on the Saturday of the 2013 Home Tour. It is an interactive exercise that engages people to build a better State Street. Mike commented that the Corridor Plan for State Street will be ready by then and that he would provide the office a video that describes a Build a Better Block. Housing – Members were directed to Barb’s Staff report.
Administration – Jim Payne Fund Development- Jim reported that the luncheon at Saint Mary’s will be scheduled in November at the Lack’s Cancer Center. A brief presentation will be made by Heritage Hill and Phil McCorkle. 10
SHOP LOCAL The list of invitees is being finalized and sponsorship levels/opportunities will be developed and outlined for potential donors. A suggestion was made that a diverse representation of neighbors and board members be present to represent the diverse neighborhood. Nominating – Jim reported that the committee has been looking for new candidates and will begin solicitation.
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Fundraising – Deb Bryker; Nikki Hoort wine Soirée – Nikki reported that after much discussion, it was clear that many of the committee members could not organize this event this year. It will be tabled for future discussion. It was also agreed that the focus needs to be on Home Tour and the Fund Development campaign, for maximized and sustained revenue.
Home Tour – Jan reported that response from letters sent out has been “no” to date. The Steering Committee is meeting in September to further recruitment efforts for the 2013 tour.
Texas Hold ‘Em – Mary pleaded for all members to commit to a shift for the November event and Vicki suggested that an experienced volunteer be paired with any new volunteers. garden Tour – Jim reported that a wonderful time was had by all, but that attendance was significantly down this year. The Board applauded Jim and Kate for their amazing job organizing the event.
New Business – Jan announced that the November Board Meeting will be 2nd Wednesday of the month, Nov. 14th. GRCC is closed the third Wednesday for the Thanksgiving break.
The HHA Board meets at 7:00 p.m. on the third WEDNESDAY of every month at the GRCC DeVos Campus, 415 East Fulton, at the Robert Sneden Lecture Hall. Neighbors are welcome to attend. If you would like an item placed on the Board agenda, please call the HHA of�ice at 459-8950 before 4:00 p.m. of the second WEDNESDAY of the month. If you would like to address the Board regarding an agenda item, public comment is taken at the beginning of each meeting. For non- agenda items, public comment is taken at the end of each meeting. Typically, Board meetings run from 7:00 p.m. until 8:30 p.m.
Martha's Vineyard: With all the approvals in hand, the demolition of the middle Lyon street building and its replacement parking lot can proceed. It will likely be pushed to the new year as Martha's does not want any disruption throughout the very busy holiday season.
Michigan Street Corridor Plan Community Forum #4 State Street: A Build a Better Block event is planned for the Monday, October 29,May2012 Saturday of the 2013 Home Tour weekend, 18. More Michigan Street Corridor Plan: HHA continues to participate in this 2-year planning process.
Two identical sessions - 4:00 - 6:00 pm. and 7:00 - 9:00 pm.
details of this interactive day will be coming as plans are further developed. A Native American Center has purchased 311 State Street (former Gateway School building). This use is allowed under the current zoning of the property. Details of this new business will be coming in future Herald articles. Heritage Hill Association’s Land-Use Review process – The Association reviews all landuse proposals for our neighborhood. This review process involves researching the
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1) Clean the Garage 2) Rake the Leaves 1) Clean the Garage 3) Donate to HHA 2)As you Rake the Leaves contemplate your annual and year-end charitable As you contemplate your annual and year-end charitable contributions, please remember 3)contributions, to HHA remember yourtoneighborhood association. your neighborhood association. If youDonate have yet to please submit your 2012 Pledge the Heritage
Association, please put us on yourPledge list. We to willthe putHeritage your money to Association, good work rightplease back put us on your If youHill have yet to submit your 2012 Hill neighborhood! Thankand You! Asinto youyour contemplate your annual year-end charitable contributions, please remember list.your We will put your money to good work right back into your neighborhood! Thank You! neighborhood association. If you have yet to submit your 2012 Pledge to the Heritage Hill Association, please put us on your list. We will put your money to good work right back into your neighborhood! Thank You!
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We remember John Briedenfield Our neighbor John Briedenfield passed away in August from ALS, a disease that has afflicted a number of his family members before him. John lived his life knowing he might not have much time. He traveled, snorkeled, bought lots of motorcycles and worked hard until
the end of his life. He lived and loved big. His family meant a lot to him. In the 1980s, “little” Kyle was John’s shadow and came to many of the HHA Block Captain meetings with his dad. Kyle read motorcycle magazines while we talked about prostitutes and drug dealing. Twenty-eight years ago the area near Prospect and Logan SE was loud, dangerous and drug dealers and prostitutes called it home. Michelle Fedko-Nelson, activist and neighbor on the 400 block of Prospect SE remarked recently that if had not been for people like John Briendenfield, the block could have been lost to crime and fear. Instead, homes have been rehabbed, lawns and gardens planted and a vacant lot was turned into a pocket park. Six homes in that area have been opened for Heritage Hill Home Tours over the years.
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Neighbors on the blocks stopped the drug dealing and prostitution that attracted more trouble to the area of Logan and Prospect SE. John moved in during the early 1980’s and joined the fray – with gusto! Michelle remembers “One a sunny Saturday afternoon, right after John bought the crime-infested Croydon Apartments at Logan and Prospect SE, I heard a huge commotion and looked outside to see a bunch of men with chainsaws. They were cutting down dozens of overgrown weed trees and a jungle of weeds and brush behind the Croydon that was used as a spot to hide or as a shortcut by trespassers.” John cleared the area, installed a fence and built a kennel for his very large Rottweiler. The war began. John turned the Croydon Apartments from flophouse to homes in a very public way. One day he pulled all the appliances and radiators out of the building into the parking lot, sprayed them down with the hose and then scrubbed them thoroughly. John’s daughter Sarah said she was about 19 years old at the time and he had her helping. She recalls a rat problem and to her horror she found ratsin the beds that tenants had occupied. Sarah worked all summer, scraping the dirt off tile, painting and cleaning as did her sister and other family members. John moved into the building while working to bring it up to code. He planted the first lawn to be seen there in years and watered it daily. He planted ivy and day lilies on the steep slope. He rented apartments to friends and family members. His energy was matched by other neighbors living in the area. Michelle credits John and other owners like Dan and Kate Diedrich, the Stouts, Joe Hubner and many others with saving the block. The neighbors formed a block club and a Neighborhood Watch and worked with the police. John’s sister, Pam Briedenfield, describes a beautiful memorial after Johns death with many long-time friends who a spoke about their relationships with her brother. John’s son Kyle, offered a beautiful tribute to his father that had those gathered both laughing and crying. The Heritage Hill Association applauds John for his commitment to his neighborhood, for the many bags of coffee he brought us from Central America, for the bullet casings he delivered to our office to prove one of his many “points” and for his riveting perspective on city government. We join many in remembering our friend John Briedenfield. 13
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Remember Heritage Hill Property Owners: There is a City Preservation Ordinance that governs all exterior changes, repairs and/ or additions to Heritage Hill properties. Call the Grand Rapids Historic Preservation Commission at 4563451 for information on approvals. You can access the application form at the City’s website, www. ci.grand-rapids.mi.us at the Planning Department section or at the Heritage Hill Association’s www. heritagehillweb.org. This ordinance applies to all exterior changes, repairs, and/or additions to your h o m e a n d p r o p e r t y. Items such as doors and windows including storms, yard structures, driveway and sidewalk approaches, and fences do need HPC approvals.
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Heritage Hill Association
Non-Profit Org. U.S. Postage PAID Grand Rapids, MI Permit No. 523
126 College SE Grand Rapids, MI 49503
Neighborhood Improvement & Public Safety organizing efforts of the Heritage Hill Association are in part funded by the City of Grand Rapids' Community Development Block Grant Programs.
Classifieds DATES TO REMEMBER
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All Heritage Hill Association Meetings are open to neighbors.
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Wednesday, October 17, 2012 HHA Board Meeting - 7:00 p.m. GRCC DeVos Campus Academic Building - Lecture Hall 415 East Fulton
Please remember us when your apartment needs renters. Your dollars not only find you tenants but also support the programs of the Heritage Hill Association!
Thursday-Saturday, November 1-3, 2012 Texas Hold-em Volunteer to work a shift - it's fun
You can list your apartment right at the website or stop by the HHA office. We welcome you!
Friday, November 2nd November/December Heritage Herald Deadline
RENTHERITAGEHILLWEB.ORG
Monday, November 5, 2012 WYCE Hat Trick concert to benefit Pleasant Park 7:30 pm - One Trick Pony Jeffrey Foucault, blues, country, folk artist Concert is free but bring your wallet for the hat pass!
Heritage Hill Apartment Rental and Home Sales Listings All sizes and prices -- Spread the word!!!
Tuesday, November 6, 2012 Election Day Exercise your right and responsibility - VOTE
If you’re not at your last If you’re not at y If you’re not atIf your not at last your last job, why is your 401(k)? job, why is your you’re not at your last If you’re not at your la *Wednesday, November 14th, 2012* If you’re If you’re not at your last *date change due to the Thanksgiving week*job, why job, is why your is 401(k)? your 401(k)? Scott Pyour McPheeters, AAMS® isisyour Scott401(k)? P McPheeters, AAM job, why your 401(k HHA Board Meeting - 7:00 p.m. If you’rejob, notwhy at last GRCC DeVos Campus Academic Building - Lecture Hall 415 East Fulton
job, why is your 401(k)? Financial Advisor
Financial Advisor
job, why is your 401(k)? .
924 Cherry St S.E. Suite B Scott P McPheeters, ScottAAMS® P McPheeters, AAMS®
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924 Cherry St S.E. Suite924 B Cherry St S.E. Suite B Grand Rapids, MI 49506 Grand Rapids, MI 49506 616-451-8645 616-451-8645
.
924 Cherry St S.E. Suite B
Grand Rapids, MI 49506 Grand Rapids, MI 49506 Scott P McPheeters, AAMS® 616-451-8645 616-451-8645 Scott P McPheeters, AAMS® Financial Advisor Scott P McPheeters, AAMS®
Financial Advisor Financial 924. CherryAdvisor St S.E. Suite B . Grand Rapids, MISt49506 924 Cherry S.E.BSuite B 924 Cherry St S.E. Suite Scott P McPheeters, AAMS® 616-451-8645 Grand Rapids, MI 49506 Grand Rapids, MI 49506 Financial Advisor Thursday, November 29th, 2012 616-451-8645 616-451-8645 Member SIPC Member SIPC . Holiday Potluck and Annual Meeting - 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm 924 Cherry www.edwardjones.com St S.E. Suite B www.edwardjones.com Grand Rapids, MI 49506 Member SIPC Member SIPC Holiday Cheer, Great Food and conversation with Heritage Hill neighbors. 616-451-8645 www.edwardjones.com www.edwardjones.com
Santa comes; you should too! GRCC DeVos Campus Academic Building - Lecture Hall 415 East Fulton
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www.edwardjones.com Member SIPC Member SIPC
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www.edwardjones.com
Member SIPC
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