Fulton Safety committee report:  June, 2013

(Submitted by Dave Delvoye)

Fulton neighborhood crime reports

May 6  Between 8:00 and 9:25 p.m., an unknown suspect used an unknown object to break out the passenger side window of a vehicle which was parked in the lot at 4955 Xerxes Ave (behind the commercial buildings on the northeast corner of 50th & Xerxes) and took a bag containing a cell phone valued at $700. 
May 7  At about 1:30 p.m., officers stopped four young people who were walking on the sidewalk at 48th & France. Two 17-year-old females were cited for truancy after officers confirmed with staff at their school that they were absent without permission. The two juveniles were transported back to school.

May 13  Between 9:20 and 9:50 a.m., a suspect forced entry through a door to a home on the 4900 block of Zenith. A witness saw the suspect in the backyard of the home and took photos of the suspect leaving the property via the alley. The witness gave the photos to police investigators who arrived at the scene. 
May 13  At about 11:05 a.m., a male suspect entered an occupied home on the 5300 block of Xerxes through an unlocked side door. The suspect turned toward the kitchen, where he encountered two residents who do not know the suspect. One of the residents confronted the suspect, who left the home and met up outside with a female suspect. Together, the suspects walked northbound on Xerxes Ave. Police apprehended the suspects a few blocks away. 22-year-old Martin William Danielson, who gave no permanent address but listed Willmar and Morris as places of residence, was arrested for burglary of dwelling and is currently in custody on a Department of Corrections felony hold. On May 20, Danielson pled guilty to misdemeanor trespassing for this incident and was sentenced to 90 days, stayed for one year, with conditions of release including no same or similar offenses and stay away from the victims’ residence. A $50 fine was waived in lieu of credit for one day served. Danielson had been released from prison on May 6, 2013, where he was serving a 16-month sentence for failure to register as a predatory offender, and is on parole until October 11, 2013. Danielson has prior convictions in Kandiyohi County for conspiracy/kidnapping to commit great bodily harm/terrorize, conspiracy/1st degree aggravated robbery, 5th degree felony possession of drugs, failure to register as a predatory offender, driving while intoxicated, and giving police a false name. 22-year-old Macy Elinor McCormick, no permanent address, was arrested for a misdemeanor warrant out of Stearns County and a Department of Corrections felony warrant. McCormick was released from prison on June 26, 2012, where she was serving a 41-month sentence for criminal vehicular homicide – operating a motor vehicle with blood alcohol concentration of .08 or more and is on parole until September 3, 2013. McCormick was released to Stearns County authorities where she pled guilty on May 14 to misdemeanor theft from March 12, 2013, and was sentenced to 90 days, 88 days stayed for one year, with credit for two days served, with conditions of release including no theft. A $1,000 fine was imposed, with $900 stayed for one year.
May 17  Between 7:30 a.m. and midnight, unknown suspect(s) stole items from the back yard, near the alley, of a home on the 5300 block of Drew. Items taken include a small bird bath, three lengths of metal fence, and a five-gallon bucket containing a sumac plant. The victim stated that more police patrol is needed in the neighborhood.

May 25  Between May 18 and 25, an unknown suspect entered a home on the 4800 block of Ewing which is being remodeled and took unlisted items. The resident found the rear door unlocked.

May 31  Between 11 p.m. and 5 a.m., an unknown suspect took a hammock from the back yard of a home on the 4900 block of York.

June 3  Between 4:45 and 7:45 p.m., an unknown suspect entered an unlocked vehicle which was parked in the rear driveway of a home on the 5200 block of Ewing and took a black portfolio containing personal information from the backseat.

June 7  During the night, an unknown suspect climbed onto the roofs of two commercial buildings which house Pure Health Wellness Coaching, 5004 Xerxes Ave, and Piccadilly Prairie, 5014 Xerxes Ave, and put up graffiti.  It appeared that the suspect pushed a recycling bin up to the wall to gain access to the roofs.  The bin was damaged.

Other crime reports: Linden Hills, Armatage, Kenny, Lynnhurst

Forced entry property crimes

May 14  Between 6:30 a.m. and 4:45 p.m., an unknown suspect kicked in the front door of a home on the 4800 block of Colfax in Lynnhurst and took jewelry items.

May 17  Between 10 a.m. and 5 p.m., an unknown suspect entered a home on the 6100 block of Queen in Armatage and took unlisted items.

May 24  Between midnight and 6:30 a.m., an unknown suspect took two bikes from a garage on the 5800 block of Girard Court in Kenny.

May 25  Between May 23 and 25, an unknown suspect took unlisted items including a handicap placard from a vehicle which was parked in the rear driveway of a home on the 5200 block of Knox in Lynnhurst.

May 26  Between 9:35 a.m. and 1 p.m., an unknown suspect entered a home on the 4000 block of Upton in Linden Hills through a window and took unlisted item(s).

May 30  Between 4:00 and 4:45 a.m., an unknown suspect broke out a window of a vehicle which was parked in a lot behind an address on the 4300 block of Upton in Linden Hills and took unlisted item(s) from the backseat.

June 3  Between 10 p.m. and 6 a.m., an unknown suspect entered a vehicle which was parked in front of a home on the 5400 block of Washburn in Armatage, rummaged through it, and took a GPS unit.

June 4  Between 11:30 p.m. and 4:30 a.m., unknown suspect(s) stole plants from the yard of a home on the 4200 block of Drew in Linden Hills.

June 4  Between midnight and 5 a.m., unknown suspect(s) stole flowers from pots on the front steps of a home on the 4100 block of Chowen in Linden Hills.

June 5  Between 2:00 and 4:30 a.m., unknown suspect(s) stole bushes from the yard of a home on the 4100 block of Chowen in Linden Hills.  The victim told police that this also happened in 2012.

June 5  Between June 5 and 7, unknown suspect(s) stole flowering plants from the yard of a home on the 4400 block of Abbott in Linden Hills.  The victim told police that this also happened in 2012.

June 7  Between 10 a.m. and 12:45 p.m., an unknown suspect kicked in a door of a home on the 4000 block of Abbott in Linden Hills and took unlisted item(s).

Unsecured property

May 14  Between 11 p.m. and 9:30 a.m., an unknown suspect entered a garage on the 3900 block of Vincent in Linden Hills through an unlocked side door, entered a vehicle which was parked inside, and took a wallet containing a Visa credit card, $14 cash, a driver’s license, bank card, and health club card.  By the time the victim discovered the theft, $1,500 of merchandise had been charged on the Visa card at Target and Walmart.

May 16  Between 5:30 p.m. and 6 a.m., an unknown suspect entered a garage on the 3900 block of Chowen in Linden Hills through a side door which may have been unlocked and took an unlisted item.  There was no sign of forced entry.

May 21  Between 7 p.m. and 7:30 a.m., an unknown suspect entered a garage on the 5100 block of Newton in Lynnhurst and took a bike and helmet.  The suspect left another bike behind in the garage.  The overhead door had been left open.

June 2  Between 11 p.m. and 8 a.m., an unknown suspect entered a vehicle which was parked on the street on the 5700 block of Upton in Armatage, rummaged through it, and took two pairs of sunglasses.  There was no sign of forced entry and the vehicle was possibly unlocked.

June 2  Between 5 p.m. and 8 a.m., an unknown suspect entered an unlocked vehicle which was parked behind a home on the 6000 block of James in Kenny.  The loss was not listed.

June 2  Between 7 p.m. and 7 a.m., an unknown suspect rummaged through an unlocked vehicle which was parked at an address on the 5900 block of Grass Lake Terrace in Kenny and took a GPS unit from the glovebox.  The victim found a bag in the back yard of the home containing numerous pairs of sunglasses, coins, several GPS units, and other items.

June 2  Between 10 p.m. and 8 a.m., an unknown suspect entered a vehicle which was parked in front of a home on the 5700 block of Upton in Armatage, rummaged through it, and took a wallet containing a gift card, health insurance card, and photos.  The vehicle was possibly left unlocked.  There was no sign of forced entry.

June 3  Between midnight and 4 a.m., an unknown suspect entered an unlocked truck which was parked in front of a home on the 5800 block of Upton in Armatage, rummaged through it, and took a set of keys.

Other incidents

May 14  At about 2:05 p.m., officers at Thomas Beach, 3700 Thomas Ave in Linden Hills, cited 18-year-old Liban Abdinashid Mahamoud of 3425 2^nd Ave South for consumption of liquor by a minor.  The suspect was in possession of a backpack full of alcohol.

May 14  At about 7:35 p.m., police at an address on the 3800 block of Upton in Linden Hills cited 19-year-old Rashod Shakuiel Portis of 1526 Dupont Ave South for a petty misdemeanor narcotics violation.

May 16  At about 8:25 a.m., officers responded to a road rage incident at 55^th & Girard in Kenny.  62-year-old Stephen Oliver Jensen of Aitkin was cited for reckless driving and 5^th degree assault.  The suspect had driven his car at a city worker.

May 16  At about 6:05 p.m., officers at Thomas Beach, 3700 Thomas Ave in Linden Hills, cited 21-year-old Marcos Eugeni Menco Carvalho of 4604 Pillsbury Ave for possession of liquor in a park.

May 23  At about 5:25 p.m., officers responded to a report of a person slumped in a motor vehicle on the 2800 block of West 42^nd St in Linden Hills.  The suspect was in possession and under the influence of narcotics.  24-year-old Andre Paul Brown of Prior Lake was arrested for driving while intoxicated with a drug involved, driving with a revoked license, and a felony narcotics violation.  The vehicle was towed to the impound lot.  Brown has prior convictions in Minnesota for trespassing, fleeing police in a motor vehicle, theft, disorderly conduct, fleeing police on foot, driving while intoxicated under the influence of drugs, theft (2), and a number of driver’s license violations including driving without a valid license (3), driving with a revoked license (2), and driving with a suspended license (4).

June 3  At about 4:15 a.m., police were dispatched regarding a prowler.  Officers found 20-year-old Desmond William McCloud of Eden Prairie at Grass Lake Terrace & Girard Court in Kenny and cited him for lurking with intent to commit a crime and giving police false information.  McCloud has prior convictions in Hennepin County for 2^nd degree burglary of dwelling, trespassing (2), tampering with a motor vehicle, and theft.

June 5  At about 10:20 p.m., police at an address on the 4500 block of Upton in Linden Hills cited 18-year-old Aaron Wayne Brown of 5144 18^th Ave South for a petty misdemeanor narcotics violation for being in possession of a small amount of marijuana.  A 17-year-old female was cited for the same offense plus possession of drug paraphernalia and consumption of liquor by a minor and released to a parent.

Minutes of May 8, 2013

FNA Board Meeting

Board Members Present:  Jeff Alden, Ellen Berner, John Finlayson, Steve Haslach,  Ryan Kelley, Jane Kohnen, Brad Orschel, Jim Tincher, Lynn Steele and Steve Young

Guests:   Ruth Olson, Nikki Friederich, Jennifer Swanson, Dave Delvoye, Ryan Lamberty, Blaire Hartley, Kathy Horner and Chris Gegax.

Meeting called to order at 7:05 p.m.

Minutes:  Minutes from the April 10, 2013 FNA meeting were reviewed.  John moved to approve the Minutes as presented; Steve Y. seconded the motion.  Motion carried by unanimous vote.

Treasurer’s Report: The Treasurer’s Report was reviewed. There was a misunderstanding with a Silent Auction donation to the 2012 Festival.  FNA will reimburse the auction winner for the price paid.

City Council Ward 13 Update:  Jennifer Swanson, aide to Councilmember Betsy Hodges, reported:

• The one-sort recycling bins will be delivered to the rest of Fulton neighborhood by 6/5.  The old bins can be recycled.
• There is no new information available on the attempted kidnapping on 5/5.
• Street sweeping continues.
• The Twin Cities Bike & Walk to Work Week will be held 6/9-6/15.  They are looking for volunteers to staff pit stop stations with giveaways.
• The City is still looking at the feasibility and costs of expanding the organics recycling program.

Turn on the Lights Project Update: 

Southwest High School Athletic Director Ryan Lamberty presented a tentative schedule of events for the fall 2013 sporting events at the stadium.  Tentatively, there will be 8 evening events, with the possibility of 2-3 additional events once the schedule is finalized.  He also presented more detailed information regarding staffing levels at general stadium events with additional staff for soccer games, football games and larger events.  They are still hoping to have the lights installed by the beginning of the football/soccer season this fall.  Surveying work is continuing.  Because of the high peat content of the soil, wider and deeper footings will be required.  Fundraising continues and they are trying to maximize the $300,000 matching donation that has been committed.  Litter removal will be handled by District crews the day after an event (other than weekends).  At larger events, parent volunteers typically go through the stadium and pick up litter.  The student-led Green Team is trying to develop a recycling program.  They are considering a grant proposal to obtain recycling containers.

Farmers Market Support: 

The CPP contract has been approved.  The yard sign art project is ready to go and will begin on 5/25.  The artist, Gail Katz-James, will staff 5 markets and an assistant will staff another 4 markets.  The banners on 50^th & Xerxes have been slow to move forward, but it appears things are now moving along.  A compromise has been reached wherein the Farmers Market logo will be on one side of the sign, and the business node logo will be on the other.  Both groups will get exposure going both directions on both streets.  The contract with FNA, NEHBA and Urban Works is being finalized.

Minnehaha Creek Corridor:  Jane reported that a prototype structure is being built to begin gathering feedback to find out what neighbors want regarding access to Minnehaha Creek.  The prototype board will be used at the first Farmers Market.  If it is user-friendly, three additional boards will be built and placed right on the Creek.  More focused feedback will be requested in the fall.  A specific survey will be conducted in winter 2013/2014.  All of this feedback will be used to guide the 2018 planning process for Creek upgrades.  Jane moved to use $250 of CPP funds to help purchase supplies for the boards; John seconded the motion. Motion carried by unanimous vote.

Raingarden Update:  Steve H. reported that Minnehaha Creek Watershed District is still reviewing our grant request.  They are picking and choosing elements in the plan that they will/will not consider funding.  Steve is still hoping for at least a 50% funding level.

Pershing Park Director’s Report:  Nikki Friederich reported on current Park issues:

• The Linden Hills Festival will be held on 5/19.
• The Linden Hills tennis courts Grand Opening will be next week.  They are still waiting on warmer weather to seal the courts.
• SWAC is sponsoring 9 baseball teams.  There are 70 kids on the SWAC Track Team.
• The Pershing Park Ice Cream Social will be held on 6/26 from 6-8 p.m.
• Further discussion was held regarding shade structures in the pool area of the park.  The two structures at Linden Hills cost approximately $11K to install two years ago.  Prices are expected to 10-15% higher now.  Nikki will inquire if MPRB is willing to partner in funding structures for Pershing.  Consider raising additional funds through the Silent Auction at the Fall Festival.
  

Coordinator’s Update:  Ruth Olson reported:

• The 2012 MPRB Annual Report was circulated for review.
• The liquor license variance request at Bread & Pickle has cleared all committees and will be considered by the City Council on 5/10.
• The volunteer Delivery Coordinator for the Fulton newsletter and her delivery boys are retiring.  Ruth will contact her to get more information about the process and routes.  Lynn will find new delivery kids.  A Coordinator will still need to be found.

Committee Reports:

• Safety:  Dave Delvoye reported the 5^th Precinct Open House will be on 5/14. There were 3 burglaries and a stolen vehicle in the neighborhood in the past month.
• Art:  The Utility Box Wrap project is moving forward.  Artist designs have been submitted and initial voting is complete.  Twelve designs will be chosen; no cost estimates, yet.
• Zoning:  There is a variance request for a front yard setback for a new front porch at 5021 Ewing.  The public hearing will be on 5/23; the zoning committee will review the request next week.  There are several teardowns beginning throughout the neighborhood.

New Business:

Jeff announced a Creative Writing Workshop to be held this summer.

Ryan moved to adjourn the meeting; Steve H. seconded the motion.  Motion carried by unanimous vote.

Meeting Adjourned at 8:10 p.m.       

Minutes prepared by Ruth Olson, Neighborhood Coordinator

Approved by FNA Board:  _______________________

Signed: _____________________________________

                       Jeff Alden, Secretary

Notes from the Fulton NRP meeting of May 1, 2013

Present

Jim Tincher, John Finlayson, Ruth Olson, Dave Delvoye

Minutes

The committee approved the minutes of the 4/3/13 meeting. 

Fulton Neighborhood News

The new issue of FNN went to the printer today and will be delivered soon in order to promote the opening day of the Fulton Farmers Market on 5/18.

Rain garden at Lake Harriet United Methodist Church

The rain garden project is stalled, waiting for a response from the Minnehaha Creek Watershed Districut regarding the grant application.

Safety committee

A number of residents are using the Nextdoor Fulton web site to share information about crime in the neighborhood.  The annual 5^th Precinct Open House is set for 5/14 from 5 to 7 p.m. at 3101 Nicollet Ave.

Environment committee

The annual neighborhood plant sale is scheduled for 5/31 through 6/2.

Minnehaha Creek corridor

The group from Fulton and Lynnhurst working on this project might meet on 5/4 to come up with an alternative plan to build three or four signs designed to elicit the community’s ideas for improvements to the creek corridor.

 Notes prepared by Dave Delvoye.

One-Sort Recycling Program

And Other Solid Waste Issues

Summer Forum

Sat., June 22

9:15 a.m. – 11 a.m.

Lynnhurst Community Center

Everyone Welcome!

·         Now that nearly all Southwest residents have their new “one-sort” recycling carts, we want to make sure that everyone is putting the correct materials into their cart.

·         Do you know all of the plastics that can be included, or whether to include bottle caps or jar lids? How about paper? Do you know the difference between recyclable and non-recyclable (maybe compostable) paper?

Please join us to hear from the experts about the new Minneapolis One-Sort Recycling Program and other sold waste disposal issues involving Hennepin County drop-off facilities.

Bring examples of materials you are wondering about, and get your answers NOW, while the program is still young!

Also, hear about the success of the program to date and what happens to all of the materilas that are collected.

Speakers:  Kellie Kish, Recycling Coordinator, Division of Solid Waste & Recycling, City of Minneapolis

                     Jeremy Jones, Waste Reduction Specialist, Hennepin County Environmental Services

9:15 – 9:30            Sign-in, coffee and rolls

9:30 – 10:15         Presentations

10:15 – 11:00      Follow-up questions and discussion

Forum co-sponsored by the Lynnhurst Environmental Committee and Lynnhurst Neighborhood Association

The FNA meeting will be held on Wed., June 12 at 7 p.m. at Pershing Park.

Click here for a project Fact Sheet.

Fulton Safety committee report:  May, 2013

(Submitted by Dave Delvoye)

The 5^th Precinct Open House is set for Tuesday, May 14, from 5 to 7 p.m. at 3101 Nicollet Ave.  The event features information displays and demonstrations from the Bomb Squad, K-9, SWAT, 311, Horse Patrol, Police Activities League, Park Police, and a performance by the Police Band.  Free refreshments will be available.

Attempted Kidnapping

Facts:

On May 5, 2013 at around 2:25 p.m., an attempted kidnapping occurred near 36^th St W/Zenith Av S. A 13yo female was riding her bike when she was approached from the front by three males. One of the suspects grabbed her by the wrist and said they would hurt her if she made any noise. The victim screamed and at that time the suspects looked at one another and fled northbound from the area on foot. It’s unknown if there was a vehicle parked nearby. There have been no similar incidents reported.

Suspect description:

#1 White male, 30-45yo, unknown length brown hair, very muscular build described as similar to a wrestler

#2 White male, 30-45yo, blond hair in a “buzz” cut

#3 White male, 30-45yo, no further description

There is no clothing description available.

Things You Can Do:

If you see anyone matching these descriptions or any other suspicious activity, please call 911.

If you have any further information about this incident, please contact Sgt. Wallerich at (612)673-2864.

Please see below for tips to keep your children safe.

Fulton neighborhood crime reports

April 13  Between 9 p.m. and 8 a.m., a victim’s vehicle was stolen at an address on the 5300 block of Chowen. The police report was made on April 25. 

April 18  An officer took a report of a burglary of dwelling which occurred at an address on the 4900 block of Ewing between 11 p.m. April 18 and 11 a.m. April 19.

April 19  Between April 19 and 22, an unknown suspect stole a bike from a garage on the 5100 block of Upton. A resident stated that the garage might have been unlocked. The garage door was found halfway open. 
April 22  Between 7:45 and 8:55 a.m., an unknown suspect cut a telephone wire to a home on the 5200 block ofChowen and a cable TV wire to a neighbor’s home. The wires were cut at the wooden power pole along the alley. 
April 24  Between April 24 and 26, an unknown suspect stole a bike from a garage on the 4800 block of Drew. There was no forced entry.

Other crime reports: Linden Hills, Armatage, Kenny, Lynnhurst

Forced entry property crimes

April 9  Between 10:30 p.m. and 7:45 a.m., a garage on the 4900 block of Penn in Lynnhurst was burglarized.

April 12  Between 11 a.m. and 1:30 p.m., an unknown suspect broke into a vehicle which was parked at an address on the 5400 block of Penn in Armatage and took unlisted items.

April 17  Between 8:30 a.m. and 5:45 p.m., an unknown suspect broke into a home on the 5800 block of Sheridan Ave in Armatage and took unlisted items.

April 24  Between 8 p.m. and 7 a.m., a theft from motor vehicle and garage burglary occurred at an address on the 3800 block of Washburn in Linden Hills.

April 26  Between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m., an unknown suspect kicked in the front door of a home on the 4100 block of Sheridan in Linden Hills and took sterling silverware from a china cabinet in the dining/living room.

April 27  Between 1 p.m. April 27 and 10 a.m. April 28, an unknown suspect broke into a garage and vehicle at an address on the 4100 block of France in Linden Hills and took unlisted item(s).

April 28  Between midnight and 8 a.m., an unknown suspect broke the driver’s side rear window of a vehicle which was parked in the rear driveway of a home on the 4300 block of Ewing in Linden Hills and took a computer bag containing unlisted item(s).

April 30  At about 12:30 p.m., police responded to a burglary at an address on the 5600 block of Humboldt in Kenny.  The suspect(s) were gone when officers arrived.

May 1  Between 1 and 5 a.m., an unknown suspect jimmied open the driver’s door lock of a vehicle which was parked on the street on the 4000 block of Upton in Linden Hills, rummaged through it, and took earbuds and a work planner.

May 2  Between 12:30 and 8:05 p.m., an unknown suspect forced entry through the front door to a home on the 4300 block of Zenith in Linden Hills and took unlisted items.

May 4  Between 8:05 and 9:35 a.m., an unknown suspect broke out the front passenger side window of a vehicle which was parked on the 4000 block of West Lake Harriet Parkway in Linden Hills and took a purse.

Unsecured property

April 26  Between 8 p.m. April 26 and 7:30 p.m. April 27, an unknown suspect entered a garage on the 3800 block of Chowen in Linden Hills through an open overhead door and took a bike.

April 27  Between 11 p.m. April 27 and 10 p.m. April 28, an unknown suspect entered an unlocked vehicle which was parked in front of a home on the 4200 block of Ewing in Linden Hills, rummaged through it, and took a computer bag and laptop computer.

April 29  Between 11 p.m. and 7 a.m., an unknown suspect entered a garage on the 4200 block of Drew in Linden Hills through an unlocked door.  No loss was reported.

Other incidents

April 15  At about 11:45 a.m., a resident of a home on the 5700 block of Dupont in Kenny confronted two suspects who were trying to steal a custom-made gas grill from the rear driveway.  The suspects pushed the grill out of the rear of their pickup truck, drove through a neighbor’s yard, and fled from the area.  The resident tried to follow the suspects, but lost them at 57^th & Penn.  The resident gave the license plate number of the truck to police.

April 21  At about 11:30 p.m., officers responded to a report of a burglary in progress at an address on the 4300 block of Upton in Linden Hills.  The report proved to be unfounded.  A 17-year-old male was cited for curfew violation and transported home.

April 26  At about 10:20 p.m., officers responded to a report of verbal domestic abuse at an address on the 5500 block of Penn in Armatage.  The report proved to be unfounded.  22-year-old Travis Riley Hale of 5510 Penn Ave South was arrested for a misdemeanor warrant out of Ramsey County for 5^th degree assault.  Hale has prior convictions in Hennepin County for disorderly conduct (2) and burglary of a government, religious, historic, or school building.

Tips to Keep Your Children Safe

1. Teach your child(ren) your address and phone number, including the area code. Instruct your child(ren) on how to use the telephone to call home, and in an emergency, 911.

2. Keep an updated file on your child, including a photograph and physical description. If your child is under two years of age, you should update the information at least four times each year.

3. Pay close attention to the clothing your child is wearing each day and never display your child’s name on his/or clothes or books. Children will often respond to strangers who call them by name.

4. Make sure your child knows what to do should you become separated in a public place. Your child should immediately make a report to a facility employee and should not attempt to search for you.

5. Select a secret code word that only you and your child know. Tell your child never to go with anyone who does not know this code.

6. Keep a set of your child’s footprints, fingerprints and dental records.

7. Leave instructions with your child’s school to notify you immediately if he/she is absent and provide them with written information on which people are authorized to pick your child up after school.

8. Educate your children on the many tactics used by abductors to lure them away. Teach them to immediately leave the area if a stranger is present. If your child is grabbed, instruct your child to yell “fire” (or “stranger”) People are more likely to respond to those shouts than to cries of “help.”

9. Survey the recreation and school routes your child uses. Point out any dangerous areas such as vacant lots, alleyways, busy streets, etc. Teach your child what to do should he/she be followed.

10. Join or organize a “safe home” program with your neighbors to establish secure homes where your children can go for help.

Minutes of April 10, 2013

FNA Board Meeting

Board Members Present:  Ellen Berner, John Finlayson, Steve Haslach,  Jane Kohnen, Brad Orschel, Jim Tincher, Lynn Steele and Steve Young

Guests:   Ruth Olson, Nikki Friederich, and approximately 12 other neighbors and community representatives.

Meeting called to order at 7:03 p.m.

Minutes:  Minutes from the March13, 2013 FNA meeting were reviewed.  John moved to approve the Minutes as presented; Steve Y. seconded the motion.  Motion carried by unanimous vote.

Treasurer’s Report: The Treasurer’s Report was reviewed.

Turn on the Lights Project Update: 

See attached notes.

Crime and Safety Update:  Crime Prevention Specialist Amy Lavender reported:

Amy attends the monthly Fulton Safety Committee meetings held on the last Tuesday of each month at Good Shepherd Church.

• Overall, Fulton remains a low crime neighborhood.  We have seen a reduction in Burglaries this year.  There have been 2 robberies, 1 aggravated assault (domestic related), 4 burglaries (2 business, 2 residential), 18 thefts (9 from auto, 9 misc.) and 1 auto theft.
• A suspect for the robbery at 53^rd and Xerxes has been charged with another crime; investigation continues.
• A lot of vehicles have been rifled through, but no reports are taken if there is not a loss.  It is important to let Amy know about these so she can watch for developing patterns.

Minnehaha Creek Corridor:  Jim reported that the plan is to spend the next year finding out what neighbors want regarding access to Minnehaha Creek.  Feedback boards will be built that will be placed right on the Creek and can be used at the Farmers Market and neighborhood festivals throughout the summer.  More focused feedback will be requested in the fall.  A specific survey will be conducted in winter 2013/2014.  All of this feedback will be used to guide the 2018 planning process for Creek upgrades.

Pershing Park Director’s Report:  Nikki Friederich reported on current Park issues:

• The park has received new recycling containers.  The dumpster in the parking lot will be removed and some other container for recycling will be put in its place.
• The Summer Program registration begins on 4/13.
• Earth Day is 4/20; check the MPRB website to find participating park locations.  Fulton Neighborhood residents can participate at Southwest High School
• Barre Boot Camp exercise class begins on 4/17.

Ward 13 City Council Report:  Ruth Olson presented the report:

• One-Sort Recycling bins will be delivered to the rest of Fulton Neighborhood by early June.
• Street sweeping will start next week.  Watch for the temporary “no parking” signs.
• Tree Trust has only a few trees left.  Trees are $25.
• The City of Minneapolis Boards and Commissions has 47 openings on 10 Boards and Commissions.  Applications will be reviewed starting on 4/26.  Check the City website for specific details.

Coordinator’s Update:  Ruth Olson reported:

• A 2012 Annual Report was reviewed.  John moved to approve the report as written; Jane seconded the motion.  Motion carried by unanimous vote.
• The Neighborhood Priority Plan for support for the Farmers Market was presented to the NRP Policy Board on 3/19 and received approval.  The City Council will review and approve the project at its next meeting.  The yard sign campaign can begin as the Farmers Market re-opens.  Further coordination between the Farmers Market and Business Node is needed for the banners project.

Committee Reports:

• Safety:  Dave Delvoye reported the 5^th Precinct Open House will be on 5/14.
• Streetscape:  There will be a meeting on 4/11 with the businesses, Farmers Market and FNA to discuss the banners.  The businesses would like permanent, year-round banners.  NEHBA has agreed to be the permit holder.
• Zoning:  The BLEND committee has recruited some new members and will try to find business sponsorships.  They hope to hold their ceremony at the Fulton Brewing Company Taste House.  There is a Conditional Use Permit Variance Request at 75 Forestdale Rd.  There will be a large house built on the vacant lot at 48^th & Russell.
• Art:  The Utility Box Wrap project looks like it will finally move forward; a meeting is scheduled next week.

Cam Winton, City of Minneapolis Mayoral Candidate:

Mr. Winton introduced himself and spoke about his vision for the City of Minneapolis.

Ellen moved to adjourn the meeting; Steve H. seconded the motion.  Motion carried by unanimous vote.

Meeting Adjourned at 8:30 p.m.            

Minutes prepared by Ruth Olson, Neighborhood Coordinator

Approved by FNA Board:  _______________________

Signed: _____________________________________

                       Jeff Alden, Secretary

4/10/2013

Fulton Neighborhood Association

Turn on the Lights Project Update

Representatives of the Turn on the Lights Committee, Ryan Lamberty (SWHS Athletic Director), Jason Matlock (Director of Emergency Management and Safety, MPS), Crime Prevention Specialist Amy Lavender (MPD) and Sgt. McAnn (MPD) were all present to respond to issues and questions.

A resident expressed general concern regarding litter, parking, etc. with increased attendance at stadium events.  Mr. Matlock tried to compare similar situations at Washburn and larger events at Southwest.  Since lights were installed at Washburn, they have seen attendance at evening events range from 400-1,000 people.  The largest event was 3,000 people at the football game versus Southwest.  Current attendance at Southwest stadium events ranges from 100-500 people.  This is about the same attendance as the Spring Musical.  The school plans to put an announcement in the program at each event and make Public Announcements reminding patrons that they are in a neighborhood and need to clean up after themselves, etc.

On a typical game day for football, set up will begin at 4-5 p.m.  By 6 p.m., teams will begin warm-ups and ticket takers, concessions workers, and 2-3 officers inside the stadium will be in place.  The lights will be turned off approximately 30 minutes after completion of the game.  MPS has authority over the students during the game (or any school sponsored event), but that authority wanes after the game is over and it is important to partner with the MPD to maintain the authority.

Amy Lavender addressed the issue of security concerns outside the stadium.  The MPD is always made aware of games or special events going on at the school and officers are advised of such during the evening roll call.  When they have the time, officers will do extra patrols in the area.  However, this is based on other activities and needs in the 5^th Precinct and the availability of squads.  Last year during the game with temporary lights there were no incidents reported.  The following day, there was one bike theft reported.  In comparison, during a smaller play at the school (75 attendees) there was one theft from vehicle report.  During the large musical there were no reports.  It is important to let MPD know of any issues or concerns- they will respond.  Call 911 with any immediate concerns.  Call 311 for other nuisance complaints.

Sergeant McAnn has worked numerous night games at Washburn and has never had any major problems or arrests in 5 years.  There have been a couple of fights reported on nearby streets.  At Southwest, since it is next to Pershing Park, the Minneapolis Park Police will also be available to respond to concerns.  Residents can call Parking Enforcement if there is a problem and they will come out to write tickets.  Calls can also be made to the School Resource Officer for issues during the day or during an event.  Although response is not guaranteed, there is a 99% chance that a squad will be available to patrol the area if one of the off-duty officers requests it.  Sergeant McAnn stressed the importance of calling 911 for any concerns after the game.  It is important to report concerns so the Amy knows what is going on in the area.

Residents stated several concerns/questions:

Q: Will the facility be available for rent? 

A:  There are no plans to rent out the stadium because the grass can’t tolerate too much wear and tear.  Although the school would like artificial turf, there are no funds available. 

Q:  How many evening events in total per year?

A:  It is estimated that there will be a total of 10-12 evening games in 2013 over a 6 week period.

Q:  Will a second entrance to the stadium be opened up?

A:  The school will consider a second entrance if attendance warrants it, but really is not interested in this option if they don’t have to.

Q:  A resident recounted incidents of vandalism to her home (a tree and a fence) after football games.

A:  Report these incidents to 911 or 311.  MPD is statistics driven.  Consistent calls regarding vandalism is what will generate extra patrols.  “See something, say something.”

Q:  Residents just don’t believe that the lights won’t shine into their homes.

A:  The lamps are designed to be directed downward.  Someone will be able to see the light from a distance (like a street light), but they won’t be shining outward.  The contractor will measure the lumens and refocus the lamps if the “spill” is above the minimum level.

Q:  What about student and adults not from Southwest?  They don’t have ownership of this community.

Q:  Will MPD really be available?  Past history says they will not be consistent.

A:  It cannot be guaranteed, but MPD will make their best effort to provide extra patrols.

Q:  What about litter?

A:  The Southwest Green Team is working on a plan.  Sergeant McAnn suggested that game attendees not be allowed to leave with anything.  That means that they will be asked to throw away any bottles, wrappers, programs, etc., before they leave.

Foundation representatives will come back to the FNA meeting on May 8 to address any further questions or concerns.  Specifically, they have been asked to provide a tentative schedule for fall 2013.

Notes from the Fulton NRP meeting of April 3, 2013

Present

Jim Tincher, John Finlayson, Jeff Alden, Ruth Olson, Dave Delvoye

Minutes

The committee approved the minutes of the 3/6/13 meeting. 

Rain garden at Lake Harriet United Methodist Church

The rain garden project is stalled, waiting for a response from the Minnehaha Creek Watershed Districut regarding the grant application.

Fulton Farmers Market

Jeff led a discussion about the proposal to install Fulton Farmers Market signage on eleven light poles in the 50^th & Xerxes commercial district.  Two questions need to be resolved before this project can move ahead:

 1)      Will the City approve the installation of two signs on each pole, one to publicize the farmers market which begins in May, the other to promote the businesses at that node?  The farmers market sign project is ready to go, but it may take a while for the business sign project to move forward.  If the City does not approve two signs, then the farmers market and the busninesses would have to reach an agreement about sharing a single sign at each pole.  Ruth suggested that, since FNA would likely be funding all of the costs for the business project and a majority of the costs for the market project, FNA should be able to dictate the terms of use and avoid drawn-out negotiations between the market and the businesses if only one sign is allowed per pole.  FNA’s funding would only cover the production and initial installation of the signs.

 2)      Which organization should take out and control the City permit needed to install the signs on the light poles:  FNA, Fulton Farmers Market, or the Nicollet East Harriet Business Association (NEHBA) which represents the businesses at 50^th & Xerxes?  The permit holder has to have insurance coverage and would pay an initial and annual $55 fee.  The committee identified drawbacks and advantages to having each of these organizations in charge of the permit.  Jim argued that FNA has no ownership of the project, but is merely providing initial funding to make it happen and therefore should not be involved with the permit.  The farmers market and NEHBA will need to work this out between themselves.

There was a brief discussion about whether the FNA sign at 50^th & Washburn should be used to help promote the business district.  The issue was tabled until the next meeting.

Safety committee

The 5^th Precinct Crime Prevention Specialists are planning to organize a precinct-wide burglary prevention workshop at the 5^th Precinct, 3101 Nicollet Ave.  The Safety committee will publicize this event once the details are in place.

Minnehaha Creek corridor

The group from Fulton and Lynnhurst working on this project will meet on 4/9 to discuss ways to collect ideas and opinions from community members.

Annual report

The committee reviewed and approved, after a couple of clarifications, Ruth’s draft of FNA’s annual report to the Community Participation Program.  The report will be presented to the FNA Board on 4/10 for approval.

Environment committee

The Environment committee was approached by the Lynnhurst Environment committee and invited to join its yard sign campaign to promote keeping debris out of storm water drains.  There were questions about the cost, quantity, and source of funds for the yard signs.  The committee liked the concept and asked for details and information about the scale of the project.

Notes prepared by Dave Delvoye.

It has been a few months since we got the MAC to vote for partial implementation of the RNAV technology. Since this vote, many of us have been busy behind the scenes setting up a new community group and website to organize for the long term. This group, called MSP FairSkies Coalition, is comprised of neighbors from the area looking to better understand the issues facing us and while continuing to put pressure on those officials who can impact change.

Check us out at www.mspfairskies.org. Tell you friends.

The website is a good resource for our campaign, including a great refresher video on the issues, compiled by one of our dedicated residents who spent hundreds of hours analyzing the issues from all angles.

Access this video directly at: www.mspfairskies.org/learn

The FAA and MAC have been busy too, voting to expand the airport terminals to accommodate higher capacity and working to establish a communications/PR plan to convince us that the RNAV implementation is good for our neighborhoods.

So, it is time to get all of you involved again.

We have compiled an announcement email that is designed to go to all the key representatives from Federal, state, and local offices. The goal of this announcement is to get the word out that we are all still here and we want a long a long term solution to this airport situation, not a short term Band-Aid. Every time someone signs the announcement, the representatives get an email. Our goal is to flood the in-boxes, just as we did for the November vote.

Sign the “announcement” at: www.mspfairskies.org/make-your-voice-heard.

Unfortunately, this will not be the last time we ask for your help. This issue will continue for the next couple of years, and we will need for all of you to find some time to get involved at key points – a small price to pay for being able to live in our neighborhoods. By signing the announcement, you will also be added to our mailing list so we can keep you informed.

Thanks for your support and we hope you join us for the next chapter.

Best.

Steve Kittleson
Fulton resident/MSP FairSkies Coalition
www.mspfairskies.org
steve@mspfairskies.org