Robson Neighborhood

Community Conversation II Draws More Residents

Nov 02, 1999

Robson neighbor participants gathered at Robson School on September 9 for a follow-up Community Conversation, drawing even more neighbors than the first meeting. Fifty-eight residents were welcomed by Jean Clough of the City's Neighborhood and Community Assistance Office. Following individual introductions, the group reviewed the events of the first Community Conversation and re-examined the assets of the neighborhood. Of particular note was the appreciation expressed for the increased police patrol and Operation Clean Sweep. Additionally, neighbors' respect for one another's privacy was mentioned.

A re-examination of the concerns in the Action Plan led to the bundling of the previous categories into these three: Crime Prevention/Safety/Crime, Traffic Control/Road Conditions, and Community Appearance. Under these headings, participants added additional particular concerns.

Team Leaders reported on the meetings of the several Action Teams formed at the first meeting. The consensus was that meetings were productive, that a good deal of research and learning had taken place on the part of the resident participants, and that "stuff was really happening!" Many people expressed appreciation of the additional police presence and even more of the Clean Sweep dumpsters, adding only that more notification of dates and locations would have been better.

Much of the Conversation centered around City Code requirements. Code Compliance Officer Jay Close fielded questions and addressed the issues raised. Compliance Officers, in the interim between meetings, had visited the neighborhood and issued 250 warnings for observed violations. Following Clean Sweep, only 30 violations remained, so 88 percent of those warned had complied voluntarily. Copies of City Code Compliance brochures were distributed.

Also during the month of August, work continued on the installation of speed humps. Sgt. Kirby addressed questions relating to speeding and other crime questions.

The group agreed that they would like a third Community Conversation, in January of 2000. Jean said she would arrange it and notify us of the time and date.

The complete package of information relating to Conversations I and II may be requested from the City for those not in attendance who would like the minutes of the meetings and a record of the activities, including the many resource persons listed and contact numbers.