The meeting was called to order by Chair Karen Hiller.
Members present:Members absent: Gene Cain, Potwin; Tom Ellis, Washburn; Danny Felton, Chesney Park; Alvin Georgia, Monroe; Jim Daniel, St. Francis; Clardy Vinson, USD 501; Tom Luellen, Stormont Vail; and Annie Kuether, State; Ted Mize, Old Town; Dale Sandberg, Ward Meade; Reverend Douglas Phenix, Clergy
The February board minutes were distributed and approved with one correction.
Karen spoke of the interview she and David Leamon had done on WIBW radio with Jim Cates and reported that Metro News had called to do an interview after hearing that broadcast.
Karen asked about facilitators for the March general meeting. There was a sense that we had enough volunteers from the Membership meeting to meet the need. There was a suggestion that we video the meeting since Dillon's representatives won't be there. The primary focus of the meeting will be on examining why people believe Dillons is important, examining whether a super store is desired by the group or if there is virtue in a small, more intimate store; and what long- and short-term recommendations the general membership has. Information will be passed on to Mark Galbraith and Pam Mullins who will compile this information for the last scheduled meeting with Dillons.
We will then focus on other businesses we would like to see in the area and land use for vacant areas.
There will be a press release regarding our March meeting and Joyce Ritchey will highlight the agenda when she makes reminder calls.
David Leamon stated that, according to John Dugan, our plans are not officially approved by the city nor in its comprehensive plan. The city wants to work with us to incorporate all of TurnAround Team's components/documents into one instrument which then can be incorporated into the City's Comprehensive Plan. He also stated that anything large is not funded unless it is in the city's Comprehensive Plan. David Leamon moved that we take whatever steps are necessary to assure the Washburn-Lane Parkway Plan is included in the city's Comprehensive Plan. Frank Meadows seconded. An ad hoc Task Force was appointed with David Leamon, chair, Joe Swalwell, David Graverson and Deborah Swank.
Dick May will continue to work with Lardner's Monuments for markers for the Parkway. Frank Meadows recommended an architect who will be willing to work with TAT so that we can provide to Lardner's a drawing to scale of our design for the markers. Dick and Frank with work together with Lardner's.
We need to explore whether we must address the issue of a bikeway in order to qualify for the T-21 Grant. Our original plans included a pedestrian walkway plus a bikeway. The ad hoc committee will research the specifications for this.
Newsletter contributions need to be given to Marsha Brown by Friday. Volunteers are needed to print and fold the newsletter. It was suggested that the hospitals might be willing to help with that.
Deborah Swank, Recognition Secretary, stated that she has begun the process of sending letters of appreciation to those along the Parkway who have made improvements to their properties.
Meeting adjourned.
People who are interested in improving the quality and image of Central Topeka, particularly people who live in or own property in the Central Topeka area from Monroe to MacVicar and 21st to the Kansas River, are particularly encouraged to attend. For further information, call 234-2883.