Minutes from May 7, 2013 PSCA General Meeting @ St. John the Baptist Church

Meeting began at 6:38 pm, ended at 8:04 pm. Attendance: Approximately 26.

Board Members Present: Zenzola, Morris, DiCapua, Geary, Knapp, Wilder, Knox.

Absent (excused): D’Ippolito, Anton, Emma, Fioretti.

Welcome and Introductions: Pam Zenzola welcomed guests and reported that the unrepresented civic association gap in our neighborhood was being discussed at another meeting at the same time as our Board meeting, thus why some Board members were absent. The gap in civic representation is Tasker to Snyder, 8th to 6^th; Mifflin to Snyder, 6th to 4^th; and Snyder to Oregon, 8th to 6^th. EPX is expanding from Tasker to Snyder 8th to 6^th; Pennsport will cover Mifflin to Snyder, 6th to 4^th; and LoMo and Dickinson Square West were still in discussion regarding the other gaps. PSCA supports these expansions.

Committee Reports:

Trash and Recycling: Pam Zenzola announced that PSCA will host another e-waste (electronics, anything with a plug) recycling event on May 11 from 10am-2pm in the Acme parking lot. PSCA held a very successful neighborhood cleanup on April 13.

Neighborhood Ambassador Program (NAP): Pam Zenzola announced that the next NAP meeting will be May 8 at 7pm at 1326 S. 9^th Street. BJ Phillips, our new Police Advisory Council liaison, spoke about planning for this year’s National Night Out on August 6. She is looking for ideas for entertainment and contacts for elder services and medical screenings. She is also working with the police to do a map of crime hot spots in our neighborhood, to then do targeted flashlight parades and leafleting in those areas. She also encouraged residents who have home security cameras to register them with the police.

Education: Christine Knapp reported that PSCA donated breakfast at Kirkbride and plants to Jackson School for Teacher Appreciation Day (today, May 7). Knapp encouraged residents to donate to our schools’ projects through www.donorschoose.org (one project at Eliza Kirkbride School, school code 90773), specifically through May 10, as your gift will be matched/doubled. 

Jackson has a new school website at www.philasd.org/schools/jackson. Jackson will hold a Community Unity Day and Flea Market on May 18. Kirkbride had a library installed two years ago but has no books or librarian, so they are looking for books. Knapp is asking the school what types of books they need and how to get books approved for donation. The Passyunk Post blog is looking for writers to contribute pieces about education. Open Enrollment/Tours of local schools are May 13-16. The Education Committee is encouraging residents to contact City Council to urge them to make up for the budget shortfall for the public schools.

Parks: Chris DiCapua reported that all three parks will participate in Love Your Park Day on May 11 and are looking for volunteers to help with cleanup/park projects on that day. Columbus Square will host a flea market on June 1. Columbus Square is working with the Community Design Collaborative on an overall plan for the park, and 60 residents have offered input so far by emailing columbussquarepark@gmail.com. The next meeting for the park plan is June 17.

Columbus Square Advisory Council meets the 3^rd Thursday of every month, while Capitolo Advisory Council meets the 1^st Wednesday of every month.

Planning: Karin Morris reported that PSCA is interested in nominating properties to the Philadelphia Register of Historic Places, and is looking for volunteers to assist in the process, along with ideas on what buildings you would like to see nominated. Send ideas and volunteer inquiries to planning@passyunk.org. Listing in the register protects the property from significant alteration and/or demolition. Possible candidates include schools, churches, cemeteries, or sites with social significance, as the building itself does not need to be architecturally significant if something important occurred there.

Zoning: Tina Geary reported that the Zoning Committee will hear three cases on May 14 at 7pm (at St. John The Baptist Church at 1234 Tasker Street): 617 Dickinson Street is an application is for three (3) family dwelling in an existing structure (use prohibited); 1430 South 7^th Street is an application for a two (2) family dwelling in an existing structure (use prohibited); 642 Washington Avenue is an application is for the retail sale of consumer goods on the first and second floors in the same building with an existing single family dwelling on the third floor (retail is prohibited use). The Zoning Committee is also looking for a few new volunteers for their important committee work, and you do not need to be a lawyer or architect to be on the committee.

Fundraising and Events: Ilene Wilder noted the plant sale was a great success, the busiest one yet at Urban Jungle. The Fall House Tour will be October 12, and Ilene is looking for volunteers.

Beautification: Pam Zenzola announced that Passyunk Gardens is now open and hours are Sundays 4-6, Wednesday 9-11:30, and 4:30-7:00.  Also, a palette gardening workshop will take place June 1 at South Philly HS.

Presentations:

South Philly High School Principal Otis Hackney spoke about their work with the LoMo Civic Association and local firm Roofmeadow to create a rooftop farm at the school. They need to raise $27,000 to complete a planning study and cost estimates, and are raising funds at https://projexity.com/projects/view/South-Philly-High-Schools-Greening-Plan/3. They hope to make this very large space into a community space open to all, as well as a resource for teaching environmental science, agriculture, and green technology to the students. Anyone can email him with ideas for the space at ohackney@philasd.org.

SEAMAAC’s Director of Health and Social Services Amy Jones spoke about the nonprofit’s work with local immigrants and refugees, particularly Asian immigrants. SEAMAAC (Southeast Asian Mutual Assistance Associations Coalition) is located at Broad and Castle, and was established in 1984, and has two broad program areas—health and social services and education. They provide numerous programs to elders such as weekly breakfast meetings, healthy living workshops, workshops on voting and access to language resources, case management, and an elders council. In addition, not just for elders, they offer an Asian women’s health program, citizenship-focused English classes, healthcare navigation, a continuum of care program for refugees six months to five years post-resettlement, and a safe families program to teach about domestic violence. They also work with Southwest Philly schools on truancy, and have a Hip Hop Heritage work-ready summer program that teaches kids dance, dj-ing, graffiti arts, etc. A large part of what they do is also to bridge their work with other organizations, so PSCA will be seeking their assistance and leads on how to translate our communications into multiple Asian languages. More information about their services can be found at www.seamaac.org.

–Submitted by Karin Morris, PSCA Secretary, May 8, 2013.

Minutes from April 2, 2013 PSCA General Meeting @ St. John the Baptist Church

Meeting began at 6:40 pm, ended at 8:00 pm. Attendance: Approximately 28.

Board Members Present: Zenzola, D’Ippolito, DiCapua, Anton, Emma, Fioretti, Geary, Knapp, Wilder, Knox. Absent (excused): Morris

Welcome and Introductions: Pam Zenzola spoke about the EPABID Shopping survey placed on each seat, which is also available online at EPABID’s Facebook page. One lucky person won two tickets to Flavors of the Avenue. Sarah Anton encouraged folks to attend Theatre Exile’s Fergie Fest on April 4, and their upcoming play North of the Boulevard.

Committee Reports:

Trash and Recycling: Carmela Fioretti announced that the Spring Clean Up is April 13 from 9am-2pm, focusing on 9^th street from Reed to Ellsworth Streets. Volunteers should sign up at  www.philadelphiastreets.com/Project_Register.aspx?code=20Q8D15N52.  After-party will take place at Underdogs. Gold Star Park will also be hosting a cleanup on Sat. April 13. PSCA will host another e-waste (electronics, anything with a plug) recycling event on May 11 from 10am-2pm in the Acme parking lot. The Trash and Recycling Committee is engaging the Jackson School in creating an Eco Club to foster environmental awareness.

Education: Christine Knapp reported that Open Enrollment/Tours of local schools are May 13-16.  The Education Committee (20 people) met on April 1 and discussed the following: crafting an engagement strategy for Kirkbride School; Jackson School Musical Spring Show is  April 19 5:30 to 7:30pm; Jackson School Career Day is May 3, and  Community Unity Day and Flea Market is May 18. Teacher appreciation day is May 7. Capitolo Park will host a Bilingual Playdate on April 13 from 3-5pm.

Beautification: Andrew Emma and Sarah Anton announced that the Spring tree planting is April 20 at 9am at Capitolo. Volunteers are needed to plant 40 trees and can sign up by emailing beautification@passyunk.org. Form submission deadline for the Fall planting is April 5.   There will be a yard tree giveaway on April 13 from 10am-noon at Capitolo through the City’s Parks and Recreation Department, where anyone with yard space can pick up a container tree (which are 5-6 feet tall). Passyunk Gardens will open April 21 and is always looking for volunteers to assist with the garden. PSCA continues to work on bringing more public art to the neighborhood, and ideas for locations can be sent to beautification@passyunk.org.

Parks: Chris DiCapua reported that Gold Star Park has new co-chairs: Regan Cooper, Kath Howarth and Tina. Columbus Square will host their flea market on April 27, and spaces are still available. Columbus has received a grant from the Community Design Collaborative to work on an overall plan for the park, and residents are encouraged to offer input on what you would like to see in the park by emailing columbussquarepark@gmail.com. Columbus Square Advisory Council meets the 3^rd Thursday of every month, while Capitolo Advisory Council meets the 1^st Wednesday of every month.

Neighborhood Ambassador Program (NAP): Angel D’Ippolito welcomed BJ Phillips as our new Police Advisory Council liaison. The next NAP meeting will be announced next week. NAP hopes to incorporate Town Watch into their program, and is looking for more volunteers. Angel reminded residents to use the city’s 311 service to report graffiti and other nuisances.

Actual Value Initiative: Angel D’Ippolito reported that the AVI public meeting on March 26 with Councilman Squilla, OPA, BRT and the City Finance department was very well-attended. The Councilman is looking into ‘smoothing’ options to make it less burdensome for residents. Homestead exemption is still up for debate, and may be $30,000 or $15,000. First level appeals were due April 1, 2013, but you can still appeal to the BRT by October.

Zoning: Tina Geary reported that the Zoning Committee will hear one case on April 9^th at 7pm (at St. John The Baptist Church at 1234 Tasker Street), which is 735 Reed Street. It is an application for contractor’s storage (equipment and materials storage building) on the first floor and for a two (2) family dwelling on the second floor of an existing two (2) story attached structure.  Both uses are prohibited in the RSA-5 zoning district.

Fundraising and Events: Ilene Wilder noted the silent art auction on March 22 was a great success. The annual plant sale is May 4 from 10am-2pm at Urban Jungle.

Presentations:

Police Officer Ace Delgado reported that there were 3 people shot last week—one male shot by police at 10^th and Mifflin as he was seen stabbing someone, and two people were shot at 7^th and McKean. There was also a break-in through a rear window at a residence on the 1400 block of S. 6^th Street, where the homeowner shot one of the intruders. Residents should report neighbor situations to Officer Delgado and to the Human Relations Commission. Residents should try to stay involved with cases through prosecution by the DA’s Office, as criminals are being released too easily. National Night Out will be the first Tuesday in August, and Peace Day will be celebrated on Sept. 23.

Tanya Morris from EnergyWorks spoke about a program sponsored by the Department of Energy and the local Energy Coordinating Agency to offer discounted home energy assessments to PSCA homeowners. Normally such a building assessment would cost $400, but with group purchasing we would get a discount to $150 per assessment. EnergyWorks also offers low-cost financing to do the improvements and referrals to licensed contractors, though one is under no obligation to get any work done after the assessment. Low cost financing (0.99%) is available, with the first six months free right now. For more information, see www.EnergyWorksNow.com or call 215-609-1052.

Curtis Alexander from Urban Jungle (PSCA Sponsor) announced they are coming up on their 4^th year in business! He spoke about new hires and new products, such as a sedum mat that can be hung on a wall or used as decoration (table runner), which can also be rented for events, as well as a “plant pie” that can create an instant window box mix of plants. Urban Jungle is overhauling the garden at Le Virtu and hopes to make it the best outdoor eating space in the city.

–Submitted by Karin Morris, PSCA Secretary, April 9, 2013.

Minutes from March 5, 2013 PSCA General Meeting @ St. John the Baptist Church

Meeting began at 6:40 pm, ended at 7:47 pm. Attendance: Approximately 35.

Board Members Present: Zenzola, D’Ippolito, Anton, Morris, Emma, Fioretti, Knapp, Wilder, Knox. Board Members Absent (excused): Geary, DiCapua

Welcome and Introductions: Pam Zenzola had attendees introduce themselves to new neighbors. She thanked Underdogs for donating the hot dogs and soda for the meeting.

Committee Reports:

Events: Ilene Wilder reminded attendees that PSCA will host a silent art auction on March 22 at Theatre Exile, chaired by volunteer Aubin Clever, from 7-10pm. Please let us know if you would like to volunteer or if you know of artists we should contact for donations of artwork. Tickets are $5 in advance/$10 at the door. Our neighborhood theatre company Theatre Exile is also hosting a roast of Fergus Carey called Fergie Fest on April 4, 2013 at the Ruba Club.

Trash and Recycling: Carmela Fioretti announced that PARC’s cleaning contract will resume March 12 (after a brief hiatus for late January and February). Look for the cleaners on Tuesdays and Thursdays. The Spring Clean Up is April 13 from 9am-2pm, and volunteers may sign up by sending an email to trash@passyunk.org. PSCA will host another e-waste (electronics) recycling event on May 11 from 10am-2pm at the Acme.

Education: Christine Knapp reported on a few items: PSCA expresses sympathy for the recent passing of a Jackson kindergarten student; Jackson now has three classes of kindergarten and three classes of 1^st graders, which allows small class sizes and accommodates growing enrollment; Jackson still has a DonorsChoose.org website for those who wish to donate money for school projects and supplies; Jackson facilities have seen improvements recently, including a renovated science lab, fully stocked library with active library volunteers, and curriculum improvements with all kids now being able to take music and the arts. Jackson will also soon expand the mural on the outside of their building. Christine is meeting with a teacher from Kirkbride soon to try to work with our other neighborhood public school.

Planning: Karin Morris reported that the Philadelphia City Planning Commission’s Washington Avenue Roadway Design Study is beginning soon. It will investigate bicycle and pedestrian safety and a new roadway design for Washington Avenue from Broad Street to Christopher Columbus Boulevard. Another study will look at Washington Avenue from Broad to Grays Ferry Avenue, mostly focusing on parking and loading issues. There will be opportunity for the neighborhood to offer input, and we will invite PCPC to make a presentation at a future general meeting once the study is underway.

Beautification: Andrew Emma and Sarah Anton announced that the Spring tree planting is April 20 at 9am at Capitolo. Volunteers are needed and can sign up by emailing beautification@passyunk.org. Form submission deadline for the Fall planting is April 5.   There will be a yard tree giveaway on April 13 from 10am-noon at Capitolo through the City’s Parks and Recreation Department, where anyone with yard space can pick up a container tree (which are 5-6 feet tall). Passyunk Gardens will open April 21 and is always looking for volunteers to assist with the garden. PSCA continues to work on bringing more public art to the neighborhood, and ideas for locations can be sent to beautification@passyunk.org.

Parks: Ilene Wilder mentioned that Gold Star Park still needs a volunteer leader. Columbus Square will host their flea market on April 27, and spaces are still available. Columbus has received a grant from the Community Design Collaborative to work on an overall plan for the park. Capitolo will host an Easter egg hunt on March 23 from 11am-2pm. Columbus Square Advisory Council meets the 3^rd Thursday of every month, while Capitolo Advisory Council meets the 1^st Wednesday of every month.

Neighborhood Ambassador Program (NAP):  Angel D’Ippolito reported that the next NAP meeting is March 14 at 7pm at 1326 S. 9^th Street. NAP hopes to incorporate Town Watch into their program, and is looking for more volunteers. Angel reminded residents to use the city’s 311 service to report graffiti, zoning violations, and other nuisances.

Actual Value Initiative: Angel D’Ippolito encouraged residents to fill out our new survey about AVI available on our website, as PSCA would like community feedback. The survey will close March 25. On March 26, the public is invited to a meeting of the combined South Philly civic associations about AVI, with Councilman Squilla, at 7pm in the Neumann-Goretti HS Auditorium. Similar meetings are being held in other neighborhoods if you cannot make this one, see www.phila.gov/OPA/AboutUs/Pages/News.aspx for more details. If you plan to appeal your new assessment value, the form is due to OPA by March 31, 2013.

Zoning: Pam Zenzola reported there are no active zoning cases to be heard in March, so there will be no zoning committee meeting next week. South Broad Street Neighbors Association recently held a meeting to hear more about the Armory project at 1221-23 S. Broad Street, where a developer plans to demolish the building and build a 50-unit apartment building.

Presentations:

Ken Metzner of Kun-Yang Lin Dancers (1316 S. 9^th Street) invited PSCA residents to attend the dance company’s upcoming performances on March 22 and 23 at Drexel University’s Mandel Theatre, and you can receive a discount of $4 per ticket if you use the code PSCA1. Kun-Yang Lin Dancers also hosts a wide variety of movement classes at their studio on S. 9^th. For more info, see www.kunyanglin.org.

Lisa Budnick, owner of the 10^th Street Laundromat (10^th and Ellsworth), and one of our Sponsors, distributed discount coupons and laundry bags, and spoke about her commitment to the neighborhood. She has been in business there for 13 years, the site having been a laundromat since the 1950s. They offer wash, fold, dry services for $1/lb as well, and have large capacity, high efficiency washers and dryers for blankets and other large items. She also supports local artists through art shows at the laundromat, and offers a stipend to the exhibiting artist. For more info, see www.10thstreetlaundromat.com.

Linda Fernandez of the Fleisher Art Memorial, 719 Catherine Street, gave an overview of the classes and programs run by Fleisher, many of which are low-cost or tuition-free, for all age groups. Programs for kids include Saturday classes that bring 500 kids to Fleisher, as well as a Teen Lounge, and partnerships with local schools (Jackson, Kirkbride, Nebinger, and Meredith) to bring art instruction into the curriculum. Fleisher also runs ColorWheels, a mobile art studio that they bring to community events to offer art lessons. They are able to do some ColorWheels visits for free in zip codes 19147 and 19148. In other areas, the fee is generally $250/hour. There are also many classes and workshops for adults at Fleisher, including open studios for artists to use. Upcoming events include: Fleisher at the Kids on 2^nd Street Festival on March 9 in Old City, hosted by the Arden Theatre; Fleisher Student Exhibition on March 22 from 6-8pm, and ARTspiration on June 8, which is their annual block party/open house. For more info, visit www.fleisher.org.

Denny O’Brien, Republican City Council Member At-Large, stopped by to say hello, as a relatively new member of City Council (January 2012). He is visiting civic associations across the city.

 –Submitted by Karin Morris, PSCA Secretary, March 6, 2013.

Minutes from February 5, 2013 PSCA General Meeting @ Columbus Square Rec Center

Meeting began at 6:45 pm, ended at 7:45 pm. Attendance: Approximately 30.

Board Members Present: Zenzola, D’Ippolito, Anton, Morris, Emma, Fioretti, Knapp, DiCapua, Geary, Wilder. Board Members Absent (excused): Knox

 Welcome and Introductions: Pam Zenzola introduced the Board and had attendees introduce themselves to new neighbors. She thanked volunteers who assisted the Jackson School on the MLK Day of Service. She also mentioned the pending sale of Acme on March 31^st. We do not yet know what will happen with the store. EPABID and PARC will soon distribute a survey to residents on what types of retail businesses they would like to see on E. Passyunk Avenue. PSCA will assist with getting the word out. Also, Pam encourages anyone to take down any PSCA flyers you come across, whose date has passed, in order to keep the neighborhood looking good. Thanks also to those who contributed addresses of abandoned properties, as this list has been sent to L & I and Sciolo Turco. Also, PSCA Board will volunteer this Saturday to answer phones for WXPN’s fund drive.

 Committee Reports:

 Events: Ilene Wilder reminded attendees that PSCA will host a networking happy hour Feb. 6 from 6-8pm at Devil’s Den. $10 gets one free drink (draft beer or chardonnay or cabernet wine) and appetizers. Happy hour prices extended until 8pm. PSCA will host an art silent auction on March 22^nd at Theatre Exile, chaired by volunteer Aubin Clever. Please let us know if you would like to volunteer or if you know of artists we should contact. Ilene also thanked everyone who gave a donation to our annual appeal, which is still open and accepting donations.

 Trash and Recycling: Carmela Fioretti announced that PARC’s cleaning contract with us will commence in March (after a brief hiatus for late January and February). The trash and recycling committee will next meet on Feb. 19 to discuss events and initiatives including forming an eco-club at Jackson School, hosting a spring clean-up and another e-waste recycling event (especially since a new state law makes electronics recycling mandatory).

 Education: Christine Knapp reported that the Advocacy Training on January 26 had a very good turnout and the committee will be meeting again sometime this month.

 Planning: Karin Morris reported that the Development Opportunities feature is now complete and soon to be on our website as well as a link to the interactive google map of development sites. This will be updated biannually. Karin thanked Lynn Mandarono, planning volunteer, for her assistance on this project. Two upcoming initiatives that will involve feedback from PSCA include the Philadelphia City Planning Commission (PCPC)’s Washington Avenue Roadway Design Study, investigating bicycle and pedestrian safety and a new roadway design for Washington Avenue from Broad to Christopher Columbus Boulevard, and the newly forming Washington Avenue Renaissance Group looking at ways to improve the Avenue and work with property owners.

 Beautification: Tree plantings: Andrew Emma and Sarah Anton announced that the Spring tree planting will be April 20. Form submission deadline for the Fall planting is April 5.  Andrew mentioned that the Board is looking into whether to continue with Tree Tenders plantings or opt for having Parks and Recreation do the plantings, and spend civic volunteer time canvassing for new trees and doing maintenance and prunings. LoMo has switched to this and other civics are considering it, now that Parks and Recreation is doing so many plantings.  Passyunk Gardens: Sarah Anton announced they are looking for more volunteers to assist with the garden. Camden Children’s Garden has been asked to vacate their space by the end of March.  PSCA does not think this will affect Passyunk Gardens (garden is in partnership with Camden Children’s Garden). Public Art: Anyone that has ideas for good locations for public art in the neighborhood or blank walls for murals should send those ideas to beautification@passyunk.org

 Parks: Chris DiCapua mentioned that park activities, from yoga to kids activities, can be found on their respective websites. The Capitolo Advisory Council will meet Feb. 6 at 7pm, while Columbus Square Advisory Council will meet on Feb. 21 at 7pm. Gold Star Park is looking for new leadership.

 Neighborhood Ambassador Program (NAP):  Angel D’Ippolito reported that the next NAP meeting will be February 18 at 7pm at 1326 S. 9^th Street. NAP hopes to incorporate Town Watch into their program, and is looking for more volunteers. NAP is also planning a diversity festival for this June.

 Zoning: Tina Geary read the cases to be heard by the zoning committee on Feb. 12 at 7pm at SPOAC. These include: 4th and final appearance: 1412-1414 S. 7th St.: Application for a 2nd story rear addition to an existing 2-story structure, 8 off-street parking spaces for use as a 10-family dwelling.  Refused for use, open area, rear yard depth, and # of ADA parking spaces in R10-A zoning district.  Applicant has modified original proposal removing the addition and reducing # of units to 8.  Eight parking spaces are still included in the project.  1204-1210 S. 12^th Street: Application was originally for a single family dwelling on this property but developer/owner is now seeking to erect a detached structure (41’ 2 ½ high) to include a cellar, stair penthouses (8’ high) to access the roof top decks, walkout decks at second floor (w/ 46” high railings) and carports at the first floor, for use as six individual dwelling units with an 18’ common driveway.

 To be heard by SBSNA at their zoning meeting on Feb. 19 at 7pm at Methodist Hospital: 1221-31 S. Broad Street (Armory):  A developer has purchased the property and is planning on converting the property into multi-unit residential housing. 

 To be heard by Dickinson Square West Zoning Committee on Feb 26 at 630pm at Parsons Building at 4th & Morris: 1107 S. 6^th:  Must be demolished due to structural failure. Requesting use variance for a 4-family dwelling in RSA-5 zoning district.  Refused for open space (11%) and total height (41′).

 Other: Andrew Emma mentioned the recent discussions by other civic associations to expand their boundaries so as to not exclude certain blocks in zoning decisions (affected civics: LoMo, DSWCA, EPX, Whitman).

 Michelle Rumbaugh of Relay for Life of South Philadelphia gave a presentation on the Relay, which is an American Cancer Society fundraising event on Saturday May 18 at Marconi Plaza from 10am-10pm. Teams of people camp out around a track and members of each team take turns walking around the track. Food, games and activities provide entertainment and build camaraderie. She encouraged the civic to form teams (or individuals can form their own teams). The goal is to raise money and awareness about preventative care. For more information, go to www.phillyrelay.org.

 Ace Delgado, Community Relations Police Officer, reminded residents to lock their cars and to turn on lights in front and/or back of their houses for safety. The Police Department may also partner with PSCA on a property i.d. program and registering of personal security cameras with the Police Department.

 Presentation of the 2012 Curbed Cup: Pam Zenzola announced that Passyunk Square has won the Curbed Cup Neighborhood of the Year (http://philly.curbed.com/tags/curbed-cup-2012), beating out 15 other contenders, including our noble neighbor East Passyunk Crossing Civic Association in the final round. The consensus was that we are really one neighborhood and we all win. Pam welcomed Darren Fava, Joe Marino, and Dave Goldfarb from EPX, who fulfilled their side of our friendly bet between civics by bringing excellent pizza from Birra and yummy empanadas, ceviche and croquettes from Cantina Los Caballitos for everyone to enjoy.

 –Submitted by Karin Morris, PSCA Secretary, February 6, 2013.

Minutes from January 3, 2013 PSCA General Meeting @ Columbus Square Rec Center

Meeting began at 6:37 pm, ended at 7:33 pm. Attendance: Approximately 32.

Board Members Present: Zenzola, D’Ippolito, Anton, Morris, Emma, Fioretti, Knox, DiCapua, Geary, Wilder. Board Members Absent (excused): Knapp.

Welcome and Introductions: Pam Zenzola introduced the Board and had attendees introduce themselves to new neighbors.

Committee Reports:

Zoning: Tina Geary read the cases to be heard by the zoning committee on Jan. 8 at 7pm at SPOAC. These include:

• 600 Washington Avenue (Pool Hall): 3 year Temporary Permit up for renewal.  Pool and Billiard Room not allowed within 500′ of protected uses.  CA-1 Commercial zoning district.
• 1000 Washington Avenue (Sunoco): Legalization of signage.  Proposed 14 signs at 559sf; ZBA previously approved 12 signs at 577sf.  Refused for number of signs in C-7 district.
• 1212-1216/1218-1220 Alter Street: 5 year Temporary Permit up for renewal.  Application for preparation, cleaning, and storage for vending cart operations with dwelling units above.  Refused for use in CMX-3
• 1235 S. 7th Street: Application for a 3 story structure with cellar and roof deck for use as a single family dwelling.  Refused for open area and rear yard area in RSA-5 zoning district.
• 1537 S 11th St. (Fond Restaurant): Application for outdoor seating.  Requires a letter of support from the councilman who is seeking neighborhood input.
• 1215 Peters St. (2nd appearance):  Application for a 4 story structure with roof deck and garage for use as a single family dwelling.  Refused for open area, rear yard depth, and height.  Off Street Parking requires special exception approval in RSA-5 zoning district.  Changes to be presented based on feedback from the December zoning Meeting.
• 1412-1414 S. 7th St. (3rd appearance):  Application for a 2nd story rear addition to an existing 2 story structure, 8 off street parking spaces for use as a 10 family dwelling.  Refused for use, open area, rear yard depth, and number of ADA parking spaces in R10-A zoning district.  A reduced number of units was presented at the November meeting with immediate neighbor opposition.  Changes to be presented based on feedback from the October and November zoning meetings.
• 1218-20 South Juniper Street (2^nd appearance): Application is for a two-family dwelling in an existing structure, which is not permitted in this zoning district.

Events: Ilene Wilder announced PSCA will try to have monthly happy hours, with one scheduled for late January, date TBD. PSCA will host an art silent auction on March 22^nd at Theatre Exile, chaired by volunteer Aubin Clever. Please let us know if you would like to volunteer or if you know of artists we should contact.

Fundraising: Ilene Wilder reminded attendees of our ongoing annual appeal to raise money for the civic. Appeal letters were mailed in late November and were also available at the meeting.  Also, you can now donate to PSCA through United Way.

Trash and Recycling: Carmela Fioretti announced that treecycling is this Saturday January 5 from 10am-4pm at 13^th and Reed/Columbus Square. Still need one or two volunteers for the 12-2 and 2-4 pm shifts. Also, PARC’s cleaning contract with us will commence in March (after a brief hiatus for late January and February). The trash and recycling committee continues to meet, and is always looking for more volunteers, so contact them at trash@passyunk.org

Education: Pam Zenzola encouraged attendees, whether they are parents or not, to attend our Advocacy Training on January 26 from 10-12 at Circle of Hope on Broad Street.

Planning: Karin Morris reported that the Philadelphia City Planning Commission (PCPC) will soon commence the Washington Avenue Roadway Design Study, investigating bicycle and pedestrian safety and a new roadway design for Washington Avenue from Broad to Christopher Columbus Boulevard (there is a separate Parking and Loading Design Study for the portion of Washington Avenue from Broad to Grays Ferry Avenue happening concurrently). There will be two public meetings where civics and neighbors can provide feedback. PCPC is also willing to give periodic updates on the study as it progresses at our PSCA general meetings.

Beautification: Andrew Emma announced that our next tree planting is in the spring. We are now taking applications for the fall 2013 planting (applications available on our website). Passyunk Gardens is looking for more volunteers. The committee is also interested in small beautification projects, so contact them if interested at beautification@passyunk.org.

Parks: Chris DiCapua mentioned that park activities, from yoga to kids activities, can be found on their respective websites. The Capitolo Advisory Council will meet Feb. 6 at 7pm, while Columbus Square Advisory Council will meet on Feb. 21 at 7pm. Gold Star Park is looking for new leadership. The Park has a master plan, a website, flyer templates, and documentation on past events that can be shared with a new leader. In general, the park does summer concerts, an annual Halloween party, and periodic clean-ups. The new leader can do as little or as much as they have time and inclination to do. Lastly, Columbus Square has received a grant through Councilman Squilla’s office to put in $70,000 of improvements, mostly new sidewalks and lighting, which should happen this spring!

Neighborhood Ambassador Program (NAP):  Angel D’Ippolito reported that 12 volunteers have signed on to be Ambassadors, and their next meeting will be in late January/early February. NAP hopes to incorporate Town Watch into their program, and is looking for more volunteers.

Presentation: Joel Palmer from Scioli-Turco Inc. http://scioliturco.org/cms/ discussed their nonprofit’s (501c4) mission to renovate abandoned properties in numerous city neighborhoods, under the auspices of PA Act 135, to improve neighborhoods while increasing tax revenues to the city. Act 135 is “An Act providing for court-appointed conservators to bring residential, commercial and industrial buildings into municipal code compliance when owners fail to comply.” Act 135 provides an expedited means of alleviating blight and making derelict properties habitable and taxable.

Working with Scioli Turco, neighbors or a non-profit community organization identify nearby properties that are vacant, blighted, and not offered for sale in the 60 days prior to the petition. Scioli Turco will help neighbors and non-profits petition the Court to appoint Sciolo Turco as Conservator to manage and rehab the property. Sciolo Turco will manage the petition process from beginning to end. When the Court appoints Scioli Turco as conservator, they will begin the rehabilitation process, assuming all responsibility for the property including liens, taxes, and mortgages. They will also partner with interested developers.  There are no expenses incurred by the petitioner, and the conservator (Sciolo Turco) advances all funds. Rehabilitation costs can range from $25,000 to more than $150,000, depending on the size of the property and its condition. Scioli Turco is then reimbursed when the property is sold. As conservators, Scioli Turco charges a developer’s fee for its work and expenses. Funds remaining post-sale are  returned to the owner. If the owner cannot be located, the court sends the remainder to the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania as unclaimed property to be held in trust.

The property must meet all of the following four conditions: the building has not been legally occupied for at least the previous 12 months; the building has not been actively marketed during the 60 days prior to the date of the petition; the building is not subject to an existing foreclosure action; the current owner fails to present sufficient evidence that he/she has acquired the property within the preceding six months.

The property must also meet at least three of the following conditions: the building or physical structure is a public nuisance; the building is in need of substantial rehabilitation and no rehabilitation has taken place during the previous 12 months; the building is unfit for human habitation, occupancy or use; the condition and vacancy of the building materially increases the risk of fire to the building and adjacent properties; or the building is subject to unauthorized entry leading to potential health and safety hazards.

Recent rehabs by Sciolo Turco include 753 S. 8^th Street, 744 St. Albans, and they are currently working on 1314 Sigel and 1331 Alder.

PSCA has set up a survey on our website (http://www.passyunksquare.org/townwatch/abandonedproperties/) whereby anyone can nominate abandoned properties for conservatorship, and we will forward those addresses to Sciolo Turco for their review. Interested parties can also contact Sciolo Turco directly.

A question was asked about whether Act 135 applies to abandoned vacant lots. The Act does not cover lots, but may be amended in the near future to include that.

Other: Pam Zenzola announced that PSCA will be partnering with the Fire Department on Martin Luther King Day of Service (Jan. 21) to help clean out/straighten out a room at the Jackson School, and we’ll need 8-9 volunteers willing to give a few hours of their time.

–Submitted by Karin Morris, PSCA Secretary, January 4, 2013.

Minutes from November 5, 2012 PSCA General Meeting @ SPOAC

Meeting began at 6:37 pm, ended at 7:45 pm. Attendance: Approximately 45.

Board Members Present: Zenzola, D’Ippolito, Anton, Morris, Emma, Fioretti, Knox.

Board Members Absent (excused): DiCapua, Geary, Knapp, Wilder.

Welcome and Introductions: Pam Zenzola introduced the Board and had attendees introduce themselves to new neighbors.

Food Sponsors: Thanks to Acme for donating the cookies and water.

Committee Reports:

Zoning: Pam Zenzola read the cases to be heard by the zoning committee next Tuesday Nov. 13 at 7pm at SPOAC. These include:

 1.      Wharton Street Lofts, 12^th and Wharton (2nd appearance): Proposal to turn the former Annunciation BVM School into rental apartments with ground floor use(s) such as retail and/or office space.

1. 2.      1410-12 S. 7th Street (2nd appearance): originally requesting variance for 2nd story addition on existing one-story building for a total of 10 dwelling units with 8 parking spaces, no open space, and no rear yard. Awaiting revisions from architect. Committee requested larger units, fewer total units, more open space for tenants (roof decks), and more sensitive design for neighbors on Beulah St. Located in R10-A zoning district.
2. 3.      614 Annin Street: legalization of existing 2 story rear addition with roof deck. Refused for open area and rear yard min. area in R10-A district.
3. 4.      1216 Reed Street: requesting a variance for a 2 story addition with roof deck and cellar. Extension of an existing variance requires zoning approval. L4 zoning district.
4. 5.      1420 S. 9th Street: requesting a variance for a 3 family dwelling (existing?). Refused for use in R10-A zoning district.
5. 6.      1331 S. Alder Street: Refused for open space.

Events: Pam Zenzola noted the great success of the annual home tour, and thanked all the volunteers, sponsors, and homeowners who made it a great event. Upcoming events include our Xmas Tree Sale at Urban Jungle on December 1, from 2-6pm. Volunteer Gary Tumolo is looking for volunteers to sing carols in a chorus, either from 2-4 or 4-6, or both. Our December general meeting on Dec. 4 will be, as in previous years, a Holiday Potluck, but this year with an emphasis on bite-sized appetizers and hosted at Theatre Exile at 13^th and Reed, as organized by volunteer Michele DiVeterano.

Planning: Karin Morris reported that the 30 “Welcome to Passyunk Square” signs will be installed, weather-permitting, on November 7, 2012!

Trash and Recycling: Carmela Fioretti announced that the last Clean Up Day on Oct. 27 was great, and thanked all the volunteers. The next event is e-waste recycling on Nov. 17 at the Acme from 10-2, followed by treecycling in early January, date TBD. Also, PSCA has now signed a street cleaning contract with ABM to clean those streets not covered by the PARC cleaning crew. More details about this service will be shared on Facebook.

Beautification: Andrew Emma announced that our next tree planting is Nov. 10, in collaboration with PHS, the Phillies, Parks and Recreation, and Aramark, among others. A short program with speakers will begin at 9:30am at Capitolo, followed by tree planting at 10am. Planting volunteers are needed, and should bring gloves and a shovel if you have them. Also, please RSVP to beautification@passyunk.org to let us know you are volunteering. UnderDogs, the new hot dog shop, will offer special deals for volunteers after the planting. Applications for the spring tree planting have already been submitted, but we are now taking applications for next fall’s planting. Love Your Park will take place on Nov. 17, with various activities at our local parks. Sarah Anton reported that Passyunk Gardens will be closing up for winter on Nov. 17 as well.

Parks: Pam Zenzola mentioned that park activities can be found on their respective websites. One to note is Columbus Square’s Holiday Party on Dec. 15. Nicole Hostettler is looking for someone to take over Friends of Gold Star Park, as she will be stepping down at the end of the year after many years. The Park has a master plan, a website, flyer templates, and documentation on past events that Nicole can share with a new leader. In general, the park does summer concerts, an annual Halloween party, and clean-ups. The new leader can do as little or as much as they have time and inclination to do.

Communications: Cassie Knox had two announcements: 1) our texting service for PSCA announcements is currently down, as the website that hosts this is currently down; 2) to receive all of the PSCA’s Facebook posts in your newsfeed, hover over the “liked” button and add the page to your interest list.

Neighborhood Ambassador Program (NAP):  Angel D’Ippolito reported that 15 volunteers have signed on to be Ambassadors, and their next meeting is Nov. 14 at 7pm at Columbus Square recreation center. Their pilot task is to knock on doors on their block and invite neighbors to our Holiday Potluck, and distribute packets about PSCA. NAP is in need of volunteers who speak Taiwanese, Vietnamese, and Chinese, in particular (Spanish being covered).

Fundraising: Pam Zenzola mentioned that our annual appeal letter will be mailed near the end of November. Also, you can now donate to PSCA through United Way.

Presentation: Four representatives from Philly’s Office of Property Assessment (OPA)—Richie McKeithen, Anna Adams, Marissa Waxman, and Jay Devine—spoke about the city’s Actual Value Initiative (AVI), to take effect in tax year 2014. The city will be moving to a new formula for calculating property taxes, based on the actual assessed value of your home (what it would sell for in the open real estate market), not the current system that applies the tax rate to 32% of the assessed value of one’s home. At the same time, the current tax rate of 9.771% will decrease to account for this change to actual value assessments. This new formula is mandated by law and is the industry standard for calculating property taxes.

OPA has been collecting data for the reassessment process, and has 579,000 properties to re-assess. They will be analyzing data by neighborhood and by similar home sales data, for approximately the last 5 years. This market data will take into account the flattening of the market over the last few years. They also look at permits for work done on homes recently to assist them in assessing value. The point of AVI is to make property tax assessments equitable and understandable, which they have not been up to this point. It is a revenue-neutral initiative, meaning OPA has not been asked to bring in more revenue for the city. Rather, they are leveling the process and correcting inequities in the way some properties are over-assessed and some have historically been under-assessed.

Homeowners will be receiving their new assessed value information in February 2013, to take effect in tax year 2014. These statements will be mailed by February 15, 2013. If you have applied for the Homestead Exemption (flat amount of $30,000 deducted from your new assessed value) that should appear on your statement in February 2013. If it does not, you have until July 2013 to file another application for the exemption. Applications are still being accepted right now, until November 15, 2012 and can be found online at www.phila.gov or by calling 215-686-9200.

Once you receive your new assessed value statement in late February 2013, you have the option to appeal the actual assessment value through a first level review through OPA, by returning the first level review form by March 31, 2013. (This is new for OPA to hear appeals, previously it was only the Bureau of Revision of Taxes (BRT) that heard appeals.) 

The tax rate (by which your new assessed value will be multiplied to get your annual tax bill) is set by City Council and the Mayor, and that new dramatically lower rate for tax year 2014 will be set by May 31, 2013. 

It appears that there is a Formal Appeal with BRT deadline of October 7, 2013, for homeowners to offer last appeals before the tax year 2014 bills are mailed in December 2013.

The speakers mentioned that there are other relief programs besides the Homestead Exemption, such as a senior low-income exemption; a state rebate on rent if eligible; and possibly gentrification relief (though this has not been enacted yet).

In future years, OPA will also be responsible for re-assessments to account for fluctuations in the real estate market, whether up or down.  

Numerous questions were asked by attendees regarding the re-assessment process, the policy effects of moving toward an actual value property tax system, and what effects this might have on neighborhoods that have rapidly risen in value, etc.

A flyer on “Key Dates for Tax Years 2013 and 2014” was distributed, along with a brochure on the Homestead Exemption. For more information on AVI, please visit http://opa.phila.gov/

 –Submitted by Karin Morris, PSCA Secretary, November 6, 2012.

Minutes from October 2, 2012 PSCA General Meeting @ SPOAC

Meeting began at 6:37 pm, ended at 7:45 pm. Attendance: Approximately 50.

Board Members: Anton, DiCapua, D’Ippolito, Emma, Fioretti, Geary, Knapp, Morris, Wilder, Zenzola. Absent: Knox

 1.      Announcements

1. 1. a.       Welcome and Introductions: Pam Zenzola announced that our November general meeting, normally scheduled for Nov. 6, will be moved because the 6^th is election day. May happen on Nov. 5 or 7, depending on availability of meeting space.
   2. b.      Food Sponsors: Thanks to J & J Pizza for donating the pizza.
   3. c.       Appreciation: Pam Zenzola read a thank you letter to our local firefighters and EMS personnel, and presented Fire Captain Kevin Ewing with the commendation letter, a PSCA sweatshirt, and homemade cookies.
2. 2.      Committee Reports
   1. a.       Zoning: Tina Geary discussed the upcoming cases to be heard by the zoning committee next Tuesday Oct. 9 at 7pm at SPOAC. These include:

                               i.      Presentation from new tenants at 1601 S. 10th Space.  Opening Fountain Porter in the defunct 1601 space and asking for modifications to the original provisos including interior distribution of seating, hours of operation 11am-2am, and outdoor seating. 

                               ii.       1216 Reed: construction of a 2 story addition with full cellar and roof decks, removal of existing 2 story addition at rear as part of a single family dwelling in L2 zoning district. (extension of a previously approved zoning variance).

                               iii.      1412-14 S. 7th: construction of a 2nd story rear addition for use as a 10-family dwelling with 8 off street parking spaces in R10A zoning district.  Refused for use,  open area, rear yard depth, and no accessible parking spaces.

                                iv.      Presentation by the developers of the Annunciation School at 12th and Wharton.  Proposing approximately 50 apartments (mix of 1 & 2 bedroom units) with retail or community space on a portion of the Ground Floor, approximately 30 parking spaces, and roof deck(s).  They are looking for feedback on the plan as well as community input regarding the use of the retail/community space on the Ground Floor.

1. b.      Events: Ilene Wilder introduced the volunteers planning our upcoming events:

                                 i.      Home Tour: Trish Kowalski discussed the Oct. 13 home tour, held in conjunction with Design Philly. PSCA is excited to have 11 homes on the tour, and 50 tickets sold. Most ticket sales happen the day-of.  The after-party will take place at South Philly Bar & Grille, with 20% food. Need volunteers to sell tickets for a one-hour shift the day-of.

                                 ii.      Xmas Tree Sale: Gary Tumolo sang his report on the upcoming Dec. 1 Xmas Tree sale at Urban Jungle, to be held from 2-6pm. Gary is looking for volunteers to sing carols in a chorus, either from 2-4 or 4-6, or both.

                                 iii.      December General Meeting: As in previous years, our December meeting will be a Holiday Potluck, organized by Michele DiVeterano.

1. c.       Trash and Recycling: Carmela Fioretti announced that the next Clean Up day is Oct. 27 from 10-2 along 6^th, 7^th, and 8^th Streets. An e-waste recycling event will be Nov. 17 at the Acme from 10-2.  An Xmas tree recycling event will happen soon after the holiday. A member asked about the possibility of holding a hazardous waste haul-away event, for household paint and other items. We have previously thought about this, but it requires specialized training to be able to handle the material. PSCA will look into the training and possibility of holding such an event in the spring.
2. d.      Education: Christine Knapp is looking for a volunteer to lead this committee, as well as more volunteers that are interested in grantwriting or finding grants. Committee met Oct. 1 to discuss these roles. PSCA will host a three-hour advocacy training on Oct. 27 from 9-noon on how to advocate for your child in his or her school and outside of school on a broader policy level. Location TBD. This will be open to everyone. A map of school catchment areas will soon be on our website.
3. e.       Beautification: Sarah Anton discussed some recent initiatives:

                               i.      Pruners Club: The Passyunk Pruners will be working with DNCA on a pruning trees on 6^th Street on Oct 6 10:00-12:30. Meet at Gold Star Park.

                               ii.      Tree Planting: The fall tree planting will be on November 10 at 9am. Deadline to request a tree for the spring planting is end of October.

                               iii.      Passyunk Gardens: Will be holding a fall Halloween party on Oct. 26 from 6-8pm.

1. f.       Parks: Chris DiCapua informed us that Columbus Square has received the “PA Community Greening Award” award from PHS. He also gave an update on activities happening at Columbus Square and he encourages all to visit their website to see the details on yoga, zumba, pottery, and other classes. Columbus Square will be hosting a flea market and Pumpkinfest on Oct. 27. Friends of Gold Star Park is looking for volunteers to lead efforts at that park.
2. g.      Neighborhood Ambassador Program (NAP):  Angel D’Ippolito reported that 15 volunteers have signed on to be Ambassadors, and they will meet on Oct. 22.
3. Town Watch: Kim Davis stated that the next walk is Tuesday Oct. 16 from 6-8pm (since Saturday Oct. 13 is home tour).  Kim gave a brief update about the importance of neighbors communicating with each other when they see something suspicious and reaching out to the Police Department. Ace Delgado, our community relations police officer, recently met with concerned neighbors, offering advice after some recent break-ins. Ace also mentioned a new Police Department initiative to hand out property labeling kits, where you can label valuables, as well as place a sticker in your window indicating you are a member of this program. This will aid police in identifying stolen property. Another potential idea is to mark valuable property with identifying information with a UV pen, that the police can then use a UV light to identify.
4. Planning: Karin Morris reported on two ongoing projects. First, PSCA now has the final permitting from the Streets Department on the 30 “Welcome to Passyunk Square” signs to be installed on key streets in the neighborhood. Ordering of signs can now happen. Second, PSCA is creating a new feature on the PSCA website on available development sites in our neighborhood, to be uploaded in November.
5. 3.      Presentations
   1. a.       Fire Safety: Captain Kevin Ewing (of our local 12^th and Reed Engine 10 fire company) handed out a number of fire safety leaflets, and gave a brief overview of some fire safety tips. He encouraged everyone to have working smoke detectors, and that if you call 311, the fire department will come out and install 10-year lithium batteries for free in your detectors. Most importantly, have an escape plan in place in case of fire, and practice it with your family. Some tips include: Don’t jump out the window unless it’s your very last choice, as the fire department is coming and their mission is to get you out; Don’t use space heaters, but if you have to, keep them three feet away from anything flammable, and don’t have them on carpet; Don’t use candles, even in bathrooms; Sleep with your bedroom door closed, because if a fire starts it cannot spread as quickly through a closed door; Don’t cook in loose clothing; Stop, drop and roll still applies if you are on fire!; Have a plan for how you will evacuate kids, pets, and anyone infirm or with mobility issues; If you live on the 3^rd floor, consider owning a ladder to help with your escape; Have a “Shelter in Place” kit in case of a toxic spill or overturned truck, whereby you can seal your windows with plastic and duct tape, which are good items to have on hand. The local fire department’s phone number is 215-685-1788.

–Submitted by Karin Morris, PSCA Secretary, October 3, 2012.

Minutes from September 4, 2012 PSCA General Meeting @ SPOAC

Meeting began at 6:44 pm, ended at 7:55 pm. Attendance: Approximately 39.

Board Members: Anton, DiCapua, D’Ippolito, Emma, Fioretti, Geary, Knapp, Knox, Morris, Wilder, Zenzola.

1. 1.      Announcements
   1. Welcome and Introductions: Pam Zenzola welcomed the general membership back from the summer break, and gave an overview of what the Board has been working on over the summer hiatus. This included the annual Board retreat, the designation of PSCA as a Registered Community Organization, and the approval of our annual budget, among other initiatives.
   2. New Board Member: Tina Geary has been elected to the Board after serving for eight years on the PSCA Zoning Committee.
   3. Food Sponsors: Thanks to Chickie’s Deli for donating the hoagie tray, and Acme for donating water.
   4. 2.      Committee Reports
      1. Communications: Cassie Knox reported that PSCA is planning a website redesign in early 2013. We continue to grow our Facebook, Twitter, email distribution list, and text message option (send the word “PSCA” to 215-987-5555).
      2. Beautification: Andrew Emma reminded neighbors that Passyunk Gardens is open on Sundays from 4-6pm. Committee is Looking into installing more public art in neighborhood, like the recently completed mural of birds by Eder Muniz at 9^th and Federal, funded by PSCA. The fall tree planting will happen in November.
      3. Trash and Recycling: Carmela Fioretti informed us that the next e-waste recycling event would be in early November at the Acme.  Over the summer, a trash “think tank” formed and these volunteers visited 42 businesses to let them know about compliance with new Streets Department trash can requirements. Of the 42 businesses contacted, 16 already had trash cans, and four have since added them. In addition, volunteers are needed for a new PSCA “Clean and Green” committee. In addition, Dickinson Narrows Civic Association, our neighbor to the east, will be sponsoring, along with Pho Ha, a fall clean-up at 6^th and Washington and will need volunteers.
      4. Education: Christine Knapp is looking for a volunteer to lead this committee, as well as more volunteers to fill around a dozen roles to assist with education. Each volunteer would have a specific and manageable task. Over the summer, a Back to School supply drive was held and was successful. Neighbors can also donate to specific fundraising projects at the Jackson School through the DonorsChoose.org website (www.passyunksquare.org/2012/09/03/donate-to-jackson-classroom-needs/). PSCA will host a three-hour advocacy training on Oct. 27 on how to advocate for your child in his or her school and outside of school on a broader policy level. This will be open to everyone.
      5. Planning: Karin Morris reported on two ongoing projects. First, PSCA is awaiting final permitting from the Streets Department on the 30 “Welcome to Passyunk Square” signs to be installed on key streets in the neighborhood. Second, PSCA is creating a new feature on the PSCA website on available development sites in our neighborhood, working with local volunteer Lynn Mandarano.
      6. Parks: Chris DiCapua gave on update on activities happening at the three parks in our neighborhood. Capitolo is hosting a flea market on Oct. 13 (rain date Oct. 14), as well as a charity baseball game on Sept. 28 (followed by a two hour draft beer and buffet at South Philly Bar & Grille), whereby 20$ of the proceeds will go to Capitolo for the restoration of the playground. Yoga at Columbus Square resumes in the fall. Friends of Gold Star Park is looking for volunteers to lead efforts at that park. PSCA is also working with Play In-Between on the possibility of creating a pop-up park in our neighborhood.
      7. Fundraising: Ilene Wilder gave an update on the business sponsorship program, which has netted several Sustaining Sponsors as well as other levels of support, from large to small. Our newest Sponsor is 10^th Street Laundromat, whose owner, Lisa Budnick, presented her sponsorship check to Ilene. Sponsors will receive window decals that say “Proud Sponsor of PSCA”.
      8. Events: Trish Kowalski promoted the Oct. 13 home tour, in conjunction with Design Philly. PSCA is still interested in additional homes to feature on the tour, so please contact PSCA if you would like to volunteer your home. Tickets are $20, but discounted to $15 if you buy your ticket at the September or October PSCA general meetings. On-site sales will happen at Columbus Square recreation center, and most likely B2s and/or Benna’s. The after-party will take place at South Philly Bar & Grille. Need volunteers to sell tickets or housesit for short two-to-three hour shifts on the day of the event.
      9. Zoning: Tina Geary discussed the role of PSCA as a registered community organization, which is a new designation that will allow for better communication between the city and the civic association, and more advanced notice of zoning cases. Zoning committee meetings are held the second Tuesday of the month. Pending September cases include:

i.      1224 Alter Street- Construction of 4-story single family dwelling with garage, roof deck, and 2nd and 3rd floor balconies at the front and rear.  Located in C-3 Commercial.  Refused for use as a single family dwelling in a commercial district, and open area (required 25%- proposed 9%).  The garage requires a certificate from the ZBA.

ii.      920 Washington Ave- Legalization of existing parking spaces (22+1 HC Accessible space) accessory to one story commercial structure.  Strip Mall located in C7 Commercial district.  Refused for required landscape buffer (none proposed), % of landscaping, and requirement for HC space along Washington Ave.  (none proposed in front parking area)

iii.      1218 Gerritt Street- Construction of 3rd story addition to an existing single family structure.  Located in R-10A district.  Refused for open area (required 30%- proposed 24%).

iv.      1544 S. 13th Street- Construction of a Roof Deck and Pilot House.  Located in R-10A.  Refused for size of pilot house. (max allowable 48sf- proposed 77sf).

v.      Joint Civic case (will be held at the South Broad Street Neighbors zoning meeting on the third Tuesday of September at Methodist Hospital): 1303 S. Broad Street- Construction of decks at 2nd and 3rd Floor Rear.  Construction of additional Roof Deck on 3rd Floor roof for use by 4th Floor apartment.  This building is currently used as a 5-family dwelling and they are requesting an additional apartment in this application for a total of 6 units.  Located in R-10A district.  Refused for use as a 6-family dwelling

1. Town Watch: Next walk is September 8 at 11am at Police Station at 11^th and Wharton. Ace Delgado from the Police Department gave tips on securing one’s home and belongings and mentioned some recent house break-ins where thieves entered through the back of the house. He recommended that homeowners put their address on the back of their house as well, so neighbors in the back know how to identify the house to police if they see a break-in in progress. Ace also recommended more motion-activated lights for the front and back of homes. Ace also said the Police Department is trying to set up more training sessions for town watch volunteers. In addition, the Police will be sponsoring a Peace Day on September 21, look for more information on this soon.
1. 3.      Presentations
   1. Neighborhood Ambassador Program (NAP):  Angel D’Ippolito presented an overview and gave out a brochure regarding the new NAP, which will replace the former Block Liaison program. PSCA is looking for volunteers to become Ambassadors and represent a smaller sub-area within our larger neighborhood. Eight initial sectors/subregions were identified. With Outreach Committee members Sarah Anton, Chris DiCapua, and Ilene Wilder, a discussion was held on the various responsibilities and tasks of the Ambassadors, such as distributing information, encouraging neighbors to attend PSCA meetings, organizing events within your immediate neighborhood, and reporting yearly to the general membership on micro issues within your sector.

–Submitted by Karin Morris, PSCA Secretary, September 5, 2012.

Minutes from June 5, 2012 PSCA General Meeting @ SPOAC

Meeting began at 6:40 pm, ended at 7:50. Attendance: Approximately 32.

Board Members: Knapp, Zenzola, D’Ippolito, Morris, Emma, Pohlig, Anton, Wilder, Fioretti, DiCapua, Knox.

1.      Announcements

1. 1. New Board Officers: New Board Officers announced: Pam Zenzola is President, Angel D’Ippolito is Vice President, Sarah Anton is Treasurer and Karin Morris is Secretary.
   2. Other Board News: Thanks (and flowers) were given to Christine Knapp, immediate past president for her service as a Board Officer, and Dan Pohlig, Communications Committee, who is leaving the Board. Welcome to Cassie Knox who is a new Board member and will take over the Communications role.
   3. Food Sponsors: Thanks to Acme for donating water and cookies.
   4. Next General Meeting: September 4 (board continues to meet over the summer).
   5. 2.      Committee Reports
      1. Zoning: Meetings held second Tuesday of the month. Pending case of 1519 S. 7^th needs a use variance to allow a tutoring service in an R10A zoning district. Pending case of restaurant at 11th and Tasker re: 2^nd floor seating will be reviewed at end of meeting.
      2. Beautification: Pruners Club will take place on June 16. Harry O Gardens open on Sundays from 4-6pm. Looking into installing more Mural Arts murals in neighborhood.
      3. Trash and Recycling: E-waste recycling event will be June 23 from 9am-1pm in the Acme parking lot. Trash “think tank” formed and will be doing outreach to businesses with takeout food regarding city enforcing new trash can requirements.
      4. Communications: PSCA is now able to send text messages to those who send the word “PSCA” to 215-987-5555. This is a free service we are testing out.
      5. Education: We need more volunteers to fill around a dozen roles that have been identified to assist with education. Each volunteer would have a specific and manageable task, for example, organizing a Reading Buddy group at Kirkbride, while another volunteer might do the same task at Jackson.
      6. Planning: PSCA is hoping to install “Welcome to Passyunk Square” signage on key streets in the neighborhood. Last hurdle is Streets Department approval of each sign’s specific location. Bike racks through the city’s adopt-a-rack have been installed recently (exact number TBD). Lynn Mandarano, Temple planning professor, introduced as new Planning volunteer. She will be compiling a list of available development sites in our neighborhood and any previous planning ideas/renderings for them and/or new ideas.
      7. Parks: Capitolo is hosting a flea market June 9 from 9am-2pm and still accepting vendors. Capitolo has open spaces in their summer camp. Columbus Square has three preschool spots open for next year. Their summer camp has a waiting list, while they will also be enrolling kids and adult pottery classes soon. Yoga resumes in the fall on Wednesdays at 6:30pm. Gold Star Park will host a cleanup on June 10 from 11am-12:30pm, and Music in the Park on June 14 at 7pm. Friends of Gold Star Park is looking for two co-chairs to lead the group, with a monthly time commitment of four hours. Tasks could include organizing parents and playgroups, grant writing for playground equipment, organizing events, planning mural projects, and maintaining the website. Any questions on the above, please email parks@passyunk.org.
      8. Outreach: Need volunteers and committee members to assist with outreach to the elderly and non-native language speakers, and to build up the block liaison program.
      9. Events: May Plant Sale was successful. Next event is Oct. 13 home tour, in conjunction with Design Philly. The Food Trust’s Night Market is June 28^th at 9^th and Washington.
      10. Town Watch: Next walk is June 9^th at 11am at Police Station at 11^th and Wharton.
      11. 3.      Presentations
          1. Ace Delgado from the Philadelphia Police gave an update on recent crime concerns in the neighborhood and some safety tips. He said theft from auto is the most common crime in our area. Recommends not leaving cars unlocked, windows open, nor valuables inside. Don’t be unaware of one’s surroundings, don’t talk on cell phones in public, and don’t carry a pocketbook if you don’t have to. If you plan on going on vacation, you can inform the local Police District and they can drive by/check on your house while you are away. Don’t be too obvious with neighbors that are you are going to be away. Call in anything suspicious that you see or any complaints you have on noise, vandalism, etc. to the police so that it appears on their daily roll call.
          2. b.      Kim Davis from PSCA Town Watch discussed using 311, which has been in place since 2008. Seventy percent of all calls to 311 are for information-only, while 30% are for service requests. Not everyone knows that 311 can be used for service requests. She encouraged anyone who calls to get a Service Request number so you can track the progress of your request and escalate it if it hasn’t been resolved. Kim is our new 311 Neighborhood Liaison, which means she can track fulfillment of requests and prioritize complaints (as a civic association) and communicate that to 311. She handed out a list of typical 311 complaints and their corresponding service level turnaround times. Kim feels 311 is valuable because of the service request tracking and ability to escalate unresolved requests, rather than the website SeeClickFix, which does not offer those features. The city is offering one-hour training for others who want to become 311 Neighborhood Liaisons. Email townwatch@passsyunk.org for more info or to give Kim your 311 service requests.
          3. 4.      Other
             1. A question was asked about the Actual Value Initiative and whether we could have someone speak at our next meeting about this. We will find a speaker for our next meeting in September, if not before, given the timeliness of the issue. PSCA has not signed on to the Coalition for Tax Fairness. Homestead tax exemption forms are now available on www.phila.gov and are due July 31.

**A special meeting was held afterwards to discuss the zoning case of the proposed restaurant at 11^th and Tasker.

–Submitted by Karin Morris, PSCA Secretary, June 6, 2012.