Present: George Jones, Kim Jayne, Bob Babione, Connie Bedwell, Joan Botwinick, David Love, Joe Roddy Sr., Ann Thompson, Roni Galas, Sr. Leah, Pam Talley and Kellie Shelton.

   George spoke about the death of 18-year-old Juwan Hayes who was fatally shot in the chest at the 12xx block of Norfolk. There was a moment of silence for Juwan.

   The minutes were approved subject to Mr. Roddy submitting statement regarding Alderman Roddy and eminent domain. (Joe Sr. talked about: the good job the alderman had done on Cadet, with the committee being a reasonable way to deal with the matter and insure fair treatment for property owners; the Mr. Roddy had further objections to the minutes and agreed to submit them in writing for inclusion with the record.) There was a correction in the list of people present: add Eunice Bedwell.

   Joan Botwinick announced that the Fixxup Fund has received a grant of $5,000 from Annie E. Casey foundation. Residents may call Joan at 727-6237 to discuss home repair needs. Verna Epperson suggested we raise further funds. Suggestions included a yard sale.

   Kim Jayne announced that the same funder has supported a Faith Connections project to hire 4 13-15 year olds to work at each of the Faith Connection sites.

   Brian Wilson announced that Brightside will be held Saturday, April 26. He sent friendly letters out to remind people of property owners' responsibilities. The response was not very positive. He suggested we adjust our plans to build block units based on security and build them on trash cleanup -- that a series of mini-Brightdides might be good.

   A discussion took place about a Community Court being developed. A meeting is scheduled for May. Brian will post details on fpsetalk.

   Brian informed us that he has bids for cleanup of several vacant lots; first getting the city to clean up its lots and then writing to all the owners. So far the response is disappointing. There was also a discussion about the lot at Leon Uniform, "Teddy Bear" park.

   Bob Babione explained the incorporation of the Community Council. Among other things, an annual meeting is required. The Articles of Incorporation provide for membership and for election of the Board by the members. Questions of membership and elections need to be settled. George is in contact with St. Louis University about assisting us through the federal process. A consensus was reached around membership: "anyone can be a member who lives, works, or volunteers in the neighborhood; property owners and business are included. Some discussion included types of activities to attract members - equality in voting.

   Kellie Shelton suggested a committee to draft bylaws but not to be intimidating.

   Connie observed that some Council members would not show up unless they thought something important was on the agenda; she thought all present at a meeting could vote.

   Joe reiterated that the reopening of Adams School was a great thing, as was the assisted living center on Cadet. He asked about the purpose of the corporation.

   Kellie's view is that it is to build back up what fell apart, to have residents stay involved, stay informed. We have the foundation.

   Joe R. asked if the purpose was to redevelop the redevelopment; if it was to direct where development would be going. George said the Council was to be a community voice. Joan felt it should continue in a positive direction with residents who want to be a part, add more and have more democratic involvement.

   David Love talked about his purchases of property and plans. Verna wanted to insure residents are not excluded from making decisions about the future; she said that if residents are not organized, they will be excluded. George said it was to say "ouch" if toes get stepped on; and be there for each other; the council will advocate for what residents want. Joe had a story about the condemnation for Highway 40.

   Announcements included:

• Planning meeting May 1 for organizational issues. (agreeing to attend: Joe Roddy, Kellie Shelton, Verna Epperson, Joan Botwinick, Connie Bedwell, Kim Jayne).
• Sunday, April 29 from 3-5, a Spring Social sponsored by the FPSE Neighborhood Coordinating Team at NHS on Manchester.
• Breaking the Silence Series at Agape House on Sundays 2-3:30 about addressing the addiction problem here.
• Joan is continuing to try to set up a system of tracking residents who move.

   Verna suggested we bring food or snacks to the next meeting.

   The meeting adjourned at approximately 8:00 p.m.

   The next meeting will be May 22th at 6:30 p.m.