Tonight the annual Shepard Neighborhood Association Annual Meeting was held at the UU Church.
Current Chairperson, John Prenger led the meeting (despite his injuries from a bike accident).
Betsy Peterson, Sixth Ward Councilwoman attended and gave an update on the following items:
1. She is currently working with MODOT to address the timing at the lights at Audobon and Stadium to help make it easier and safer to turn left into the neighborhood.
2. Kelly Farms has been approved to be built north of the Stadium and 63 interchange. This apartment complex has the potential to bring more traffic into the area. They will not be marketing to students but to professionals.
3. The work at Stadium and Old 63 will be putting in two left turn lanes as well as pedestrian islands. This work is predicted to be completed before students return in August. Also, the lights at Old 63 will have walk lights coming from all directions.
4. Many concerns were expressed at the number of cars speeding through the neighborhood, specifically on Audobon. Councilwoman Peters agreed to look into how to get speed table on the road. Also, many individuals reported having things being stolen from their cars as well as having cars stolen from their driveways. Officer Ash recommended that all thefts be reported right away. He will also request patrol officers be more present in the neighborhood during arrival for Shepard Elementary as well as over night. Meredith Donaldson also agreed to look into the Neighborhood Watch program as notices have not been going out to the neighborhood.
5. A question was asked of Councilwoman Peters about the building that was previously the Bee Line gas station. A report of vandalism was made and has been cleaned up. Ms. Peters said she would look into it.
Other updates and announcements:
Meredith Donaldson announced that she would be willing to help anyone who would like assistance with getting rid of bush honeysuckle. This plant can be very invasive. Meredith can help residents get in touch with resources in the City to help get rid of the plants as well as recommend plants that can replace the plants.
Cokie Blake would like to remind residents that she and Dr. Blake have a Little Free Library outside of their home on Meadow Lark. The library is meant to encourage reading by allowing people to take a book and read and keep it or return it. Feel free to take any of the books currently there, as well as leave some books that are would like to donate.
Randy Wyatt announced that Boy Scout Troop 706 has committed to help clean up Sterling Wyatt Park on April 8th as part of Clean Up Columbia. All neighbors are invited to help with this project.
Aubrey Ash announced that a Facebook page has been created to help neighbors in the Shepard neighborhood share information. You can find the page on Facebook by searching for Shepard Boulevard Area Neighbors.
Julia Helvey reported that our income last year was $146 collected in dues and our expenses were $164. Our expenses included renting the shelter for the picnic, food and the ad for the annual garage sale.
If you were not able to be at the meeting tonight you can pay your $5 to Julia at the August picnic.
Official Business:
Sherry Wyatt agreed to become the association Chairperson.
Mickie Shank agreed to become the association vice-chair
Aubrey Ash will continue as the secretary and Julia Helvey will continue as the treasurer.
Upcoming Dates:
Annual Garage Sale - June 9th and 10th
Annual picnic - August 12th.
