LINCOLN PARK HISTORIC DISTRICT NEIGHBORHOOD ASSOCIATION MEETING

APRIL 17, 2008--7:00 p.m.

The meeting was called to order by the Vice President, Joyce Melton, at the FRIENDLY TOWN Traffic Education Center in the park. After welcoming those in attendance, many for the first time, she introduced Sue Richter, Director of the Vermilion County Museum. Sue talked about the upcoming Lincoln Bicentennial Celebration in Illinois next summer, the Museum's planned participation, and other Danville activities which could be related to it. Scheduling another Lincoln Park Historic District Garden Walk during this time period was discussed, and a committee will be formed to explore the possibilities. September 2008 is the deadline for inclusion in the local celebration plan. The minutes of the August 16, 2007 meeting were read and approved. Report of the Treasurer: Balance on hand; $1179.70.

Old Business:

>A "Leaf a Legacy" tree, sponsored by LPHDNA, has been planted on the east side of Lincoln Park. (The previous tree is on the west side.)

>Alderman Jerry Askren's remarks:

The derelict house at 1218 Sherman has been posted as a public nuisance, and will be demolished after April 26. (Cheers!)

The winter weather has had an especially harsh effect on city streets, and the city budget is receiving less tax money every year. The increased gasoline tax is an attempt by the City to defray some of the street repair costs. Money will be in short supply for the foreseeable future.

The alderman was asked about the derelict house at 1109 Grant, the cutting down of the tree in the parkway on Sheridan, and other concerns about streets and alleys and the city in general.

>The bikeway path is still planned to include the park.

New Business:

>The Association voted to award the Neighborhood Improvement sign to Lisa & Scott Burgess.

>Nancy Bates reported on the annual Neighborhood Association Workshop held on March 15. Attendance was good, and there were many common concerns addressed by city and county officials, who also showcased their local agencies and services available. The Associations also had an opportunity to share ideas and common concerns with each other.

>Joyce Melton announced that there is $500 in grant money available from Keep Vermilion County Beautiful. Suggested projects were restoring the decorative lights at the park entrances and more flower planters in the park.

>"Arts in the Park" has contributed 4 banners and a "Leaf a Legacy" tree to the park.

>Park cleanup will be April 26 at 9:00 a.m. It was requested to have trash receptacles closer to the sidewalk on the West side of the park, as well as signs urging owners to clean up after pets.

>Express appreciation to Schultz Nursery for their donation of flowering crab trees for the park.

>Nomination and Election of Officers will be held at the next meeting.

There being no further business, the meeting was adjourned at 8:30 p.m.

Nancy Bates, Recording Secretary