AHNA General Meeting Minutes --- February 5, 2018

Board Members Present: Yvonne Matthews, Paul O’Mara, Carol Padberg, Louisa Barton Duguay, Nancy Rion Jackie McKinney, Ken Johnson, Esther Gonzalez-Torres, Moureen Bish, Dean Amadon, George Annan-Kingsley and Janice Castle Board Members Absent: Michelle McFarland, Chris Montross, Mark McKinney, Nancy Caddigan, AHNA Members & Staff Present: Rich Armstrong, Barbara Morton, Ofc. Sid Palmieri, Sue Carey, Clair Bergin, Lauren Fair, Frank Hagaman, Marian Leist, Jennifer Cassidy, Dulcie Giadone, Mike McGarry, Ted Carroll and Bernie Michel Visitors: Michael Barr, Andrea Barton-Reeves, Diane Cantello, Michael Coulom, Mary Ellen Shuckerow and Vinny Vella.

The meeting was called to order by Yvonne Matthews at 6:15. About 30 participants introduced themselves. Yvonne recognized Carol Padberg as a “breath of fresh air” who has been helping write grants for AHNA and also has a little food pantry in front of her house on Laurel St.

The January minutes were approved.

Police Report: Asylum Hill’s CSO, Sid Palmieri reported in January he continued to issue summons for panhandling. He is working with undercover police and owners of apartment complexes to combat prostitution and narcotics, most recently at 7 Gillette. A resident registered concern about the increased traffic on Woodland St since the Wheeler Clinic opened.

Finance Report: Paul reported: January 1 balance: $ 22,248

Expenses: $ 7,997 (payroll, web host, web designer, LGH) Contributions $ 1,867 (Habitat, HartBeat Ensemble, YWCA,

ConnectiKids January 31 balance: $ 16,118

Yvonne encouraged all residents and stakeholders to become members of AHNA Voices from the Neighborhood:

• Mike McGarry shared a copy of a new 48 page booklet on Greater Hartford • Kathryn Johnson, an architect and urban planner, offered an alternative consideration to the I-

84 plan (she shared her map at the conclusion of the meeting)

Report from the City – Janice Castle: • Bulky Waste Pickup: residents must schedule • There are several city/community positions available, including a Community Liaison

I-84 Update: Michael reported that a public forum will be March 7, 12:30-2PM at Chrysalis to discuss the interchange and the location of the train station. There is a 3D image on their website.

Proposed Strategic Plan for AHNA: Nancy reported that the Board finalized the Mission Vision and Goals that will be shared at AHNA’s 20th Anniversary Event on Feb. 12

Anniversary

Chrysalis Center Clover Gardens: Following the January meeting, Yvonne and Bernie met with Maryellen Shuckerow and Sharon Castelli from Chrysalis. Speaking for AHNA, Yvonne made it clear that the neighborhood would not support additional restricted housing in Asylum Hill. AHNA would like to improve communications and work with Chrysalis in the future. Mary Ellen said she would share AHNA’s concerns and ask Chrysalis to consider increasing the number of larger units.

AHNA’s 20th Anniversary Celebration: The celebration will be February 12, 2018 from 5:30 - 8:30 at The Hartford on the 22nd floor. Over 180 people have reserved tickets. The focus will be on encouraging attendees to recommit to work together to improve the quality of life in Asylum Hill. There will be a program highlighting 20 special Asylum Hill people and organizations, as well as great food and drink.

Upcoming Events: • Feb 12 – AHNA 20th Anniversary Celebration at the Hartford • Feb 7 – George is opening his art show in the connecting corridor of the LOB • The Atheneum offers free admission to Hartford residents with a special time for kids on the 2nd

Saturday of each month • Hartford Blooms will be June 9-17 with the theme, Jazz, Arts and Flowers • The Ct Valley Garden Club has invited AHNA to apply for a grant • CDBG requests for proposals – will be discussed at the March meeting • Jennifer Cassidy shared cards to give to pan handlers indicating shelters and places for food in

down town Hartford

The meeting was adjourned at 7:35.