South Park Neighborhood Association

SPNA Meeting Minutes 4-7-2008

Quincie Douglas Neighborhood Center

The meeting was called to order by Maggie Gerring, Co-Chair. Introductions were made and the dues basket passed. The minutes were read and approved with one correction; the Allen Hall Public Meeting will be April 29 not April 22.

Officer Welding from TPD reported on crime in the neighborhood. Call statistics: 7 burglary, 8 larceny, 13 vehicle theft, 10 assault with injury, 12 criminal damage, 22 narcotics, 11 public hazard, 9
public assistance, 22 suspicious activities, 14 disturbance of the peace, less than 5 liquor violations and/or disorderly. An officer has been assigned to Quincie Douglas Library and there has been less trouble there. Library employees expressed their appreciation. New officers are training so Sector 2 could get more officers. Residents shared various concerns and suspicions with Officer Welding.

Maggie handed out information on the reassignment of the Allen Hall facility on Silverlake from the Army Reserve to a civilian use. The Advisory Committee she serves on is studying proposals for use of the property. The five proposals submitted to the Committee are: A City of Tucson Emergency Management center for offices, equipment, training, temporary shelter and supplies; a Tucson Council for the Prevention of Homelessness (TCPH) Resource Center for health, wellness and economic stability for low-income and homeless people; Pima Community College Training Programs in Public Safety and Emergency Services; City of Tucson Parks and Recreation Department Organizational Maintenance and Support with a neighborhood center providing expanded services for the area; and a RISE Recycling Facility providing employment and employment services for homeless, unemployed and disabled people. Several residents expressed opposition to any service that would attract homeless or transients to the neighborhood. Residents were favorable toward the Emergency Management proposal, or Emergency Management combined with training by PCC.

Bill Seitz, Citizen’s Advisory Committee member, reported on the progress of planning the improvements to 22nd and Kino Parkway. The CAC is preparing to vote on an intersection style for the intersection of Kino and 22nd and are leaning toward a single-point urban interchange. Several adjustments have been made to the plans in response to comments by residents and business owners. Residents expressed frustration that the process takes so long.

Maggie reported that the Bridges Development is experiencing delays due to the slow economy but they are still committed to the project. The first step is flood control grading and they are working through the red tape involved in dealing with several agencies. There is a concrete shortage but 2/3 of the pipes required have already been manufactured.

There were several events and announcements noted on the agenda. The Blanche Johnson Senior Apartments on 36th St. are nearing completion and are accepting applications. SPNA will hold Adopt-A-Park cleanup on April 12 at 8:00 a.m. at Silverlake Park. The Kino Weed & Seed Coalition is looking for youth in the area who deserve recognition; a form is available with more information.

Door prizes were awarded and the meeting adjourned at 8:00 p.m.