Table of Contents
LWVM OBSERVER: Cathy Marie Michael
Members in attendance: All board members, Executive Director Cathy Sheehan, ED and two maintenance men
Public Comment
A tenant from Roads School stated, "I have not received a ROBO call 3 months in a row for this meeting." The tenant said one person in the audience did receive a call, but it came in at noon for the 4 p.m. meeting. The tenant also stated, "What I said last month was not reflected correctly in the minutes."
A tenant from Farrell Court reported a dangerous hill walking up to the community room and said people fall, including herself. She said she had surgery due to falling on the hill. In response, it was stated that signage will be installed warning people not to walk that way and maintenance will add plantings so it no longer looks like a pathway.
A tenant from Farrell Court stated that smoking is still a problem and said it is illegal yet month after month smokers remain with no boundaries set upon them, including one smoker reported in May 2024 who is still there and still smoking. In response, Kuker asked that she put her comment in writing. She said she has many times but never received a response. Another tenant agreed that smoking is still happening.
Executive director report
Sheehan reported that an $80,000 grant was received for a designer to create shade areas at three developments, including Green Street and Farrell Court. Residents were met with and feedback was received.
Sheehan reported that SPUR volunteers are repairing planters and doing other outdoor work and will return this summer to paint murals.
Sheehan reported that April 13 was Advocacy Day at the State House and Residency Coordinator Laura spoke on their role and importance.
Sheehan reported that a 250th celebration is being planned for June and will be funded by EOHLC.
Sheehan reported a plant swap at Roads School.
Sheehan reported 232 maintenance work orders.
Sheehan reported that Gary, the main maintenance worker who attends board meetings, has been promoted to Director of Operations and the person moving into his position was present at the meeting.
Sheehan reported that the Future Forward program will start this fall on Zoom and will help people set goals, repair credit and plan for retirement.
Commissioner items
Kristin stated it is important to follow up on public comments from the prior month and brought up several items from last month that have not been responded to, including smoking and noisy tenants.
Kristin stated there have been many complaints about smoking and asked whether support could be obtained from organizations to help people stop smoking. Sheehan responded that strict steps must be followed and that it is a very long process to evict someone. Terri stated that help is offered to stop smoking and that the person who is complaining can also be moved.
Kristin raised complaints about dog waste and urination. Sheehan stated that this cannot be enforced and that the community has many dogs.
Terri proposed setting office hours for two board members to meet with tenants and listen to their concerns. It was decided that on Monday, April 27 at 4 p.m. at Farrell Court, Terri and Kristin will meet with residents. It was not decided how residents would be informed. For May, it was discussed that the listening session would be a meeting with families, possibly at Star of the Sea, where activities for children could be provided.
Kuker stated, "I have a lot of disagreement with the Broughton Road project." Jen responded that there is not yet a final agreement with Winn and that the board is waiting for a response, after which the board will meet in executive session because it includes a contract. Sheehan stated that some terms have already been agreed upon.
