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HomeMy WebLinkAboutMinutes 1999�r Draft -not aporoved Ladd Arboretum Committee Monday, December 6, 1999 7:00 PM Board Members Present: Matt Frazel Irene Gregory Gordon Guth Myra Janus Charles Smith Board Members Absent: Marti Bjornson Staff Members Present: Linda Lutz Karen Taira Others Present: At Jackson, Independence Knoll Committee Ch8i71nan, 4'" of July Association Msx Rubin, 4th of July Association Jeff Lomax, webmaster, consultant Independence Knoll Mr. Rubin explained that he had been working with the Parks/Forestry Division regarding an Independence Knoll project. Mr. Jackson noted that the Knoll was initially funded by the North Evanston 4"` of July Association, now 77 years old. They built up the mound, put up the flag and flag pole and dedicated the area in 1960. Until a few years ago the 4 h of July Association has had no other involvement with the Ladd Arboretum. Now the 41' of July Association would like to put lighting on the flag, a new flagpole, and add benches to the Knoll. Mr. Rubin passed out plans for the area. The group would like to be able to put the flag at half-mast when necessary (the pole will tip down the proposed stairway), something that they cannot do now; they also need to illuminate the flag, as it is not taken down every day. Basically the 4 h of July Association would like to do the following: • Build a decorative paver patio • Lighting to illuminate the flag �F • New flag pole that can be tipped to place the flag at half most • Benches to honor some 4"h of July Association trustees and members The group received help from Paul D'Agostino for the design. 2 benches are already in, the lights are ordered and installation should take place in the spring, and the pole is being researched. Mr. Rubin indicated that there is a problem with adults riding their bikes down the 4'" of July hill. The group is proposing a rock stairway up to the Knoll, which would start at the end of the Rotary Friendship Garden area. The stairway would allow people to sit, ponder, and relax. A path from the back of the Knoll would be ADA accessible and compliant. Mr. Rubin noted that there is an ADA committee for the City of Evanston and the plans would need to go before them. He also said that no ADA survey has been done for the Ladd Arboretum To date, the 0' of July Association has given $16,000 so far and perhaps another $8,000 is coming in this year's budget. The cost of the entire project as they see it, is $75,000. The Association does not plan to do any fundraising for the project this year. Mr. Rubin was very conciliatory and noted that plans can to changed. So far this is mainly just a design. However, they would like to replace the lighting and the flag pole spring 2000. The project cost to date is $8,700 for the benches, foundation, and installation. The Facilities Management Department will do electrical work, as it is a small job. Mr. Smith thanked Mr. Jackson and Mr. Rubin for sharing the 4 h of July Association's plans with the Ladd Arboretum Committee. Mr. Smith indicated that the LAC strongly supports a master plan for the Arboretum to maintain the integrity of the original design as well as plan for the future of the mature arboretum. The LAC will take a look at the plans in depth and continue to dialogue with the Association. Ladd Arboretum Master Plan Mr. Guth moved, seconded by Mr. Frazel to develop a master plan for the Ladd Arboretum. In order to preserve the Arboretum a strategic plan that takes into account the age and maturity of the arboretum, such things as soil conditions, maintenance practices, and available funding must be developed. The Board approved the motion and added that it is important to understand the dynamics of the tree population, accommodate changes that have occurred, and plan for future changes. The Board will investigate how to pay for the master plan. Perhaps a cooperative arrangement can be made with the City of Evanston. • Ms. Lutz will look for existing maps, soil conditions, plantings, trees. underground cablesipipes. and aerial photographs to compile for the Board Mr. Smith mentioned that the Board might want to take field trips to other Arboretums. Perhaps former City of Evanston employees Dennis Cepbcha and Fred Gullen could come to a Board meeting and provide background information. The Board approved the motion to develop a master plan for the Ladd Arboretum Ladd Arboretum Web Site Mr. Lomax updated the Board on the website and showed the Board what had been constructed to date. The web site can be viewed through AOL. Payment to the North Suburban Library system will register the site. The Board thanked Mr. Lomax for his work, they are very pleased with the results. Building Renovation Ms. Lutz reported that 90% plans were to be delivered 12120199. Several drawings will be available for the EEA annual meeting showing the changes the Board wanted including a fireplace. As drawings come in they will be distributed to the Facilities Management Department and perhaps the Building Inspection Division so any changes required by the City of Evanston can be incorporated prior to the final drawings. The completed plans will need to go to: • The Human Services Committee • Site Plan Review • Metropolitan Water Reclamation District • Facilities Management Department Ecology Center Budget Ms. Lutz reported that the City of Evanston budget process is very tight and the Ecology Center has had to cut bits and pieces from different line items. As a result the Secretary position vacated by Elaine Ferris will not be replaced in the near future; the position has been down graded to a Clerk 11 position. Additional cuts may need to be made so no plans are definite now. Currently the City of Evanston provides about $95,000 of the Ecology Center's $302,000 operating budget. Community Garden Program k The Board discussed -the yearly renewal contract of participants in the community garden program. This past summer there was no waiting list for garden plots so some gardeners were able to "annex' a second plot for the remainder of the growing season. It is the Board's goal to have the community garden program create a unique community spirit, develop relationships among gardeners as well as with City of Evanston staff. Educational tours of the gardens could be available to schools. Ms. Gregory will investigate further soil analysis opportunities. Ms. Gregory will get a copy of what a finished soil analysis looks like. Ms. Gregory would like to see an offer made to all gardeners for the soil analysis and have the program run through the Ecology Center. The Board was intrigued by a proposal from the Douglas Hoerr Landscape Architecture firm to garden an.area in the James Park Community Garden. Ms. Lutz will discuss with Ryan Kedefcamp and invite him to attend a Board meeting to discuss the proposal. Next meeting The next meeting of the LAC will be Monday, January 3, 2000, at 7:00 PM at the Ecology Center. Respectfully submitted, Linda Lutz Ecology Center Coordinator x Draft -not aooroved Ladd Arboretum Committee Monday, November 1, 1999 6:30 PM Board Members Present: Marti Bjornson Gordon Guth Myra Janus Charles Smith Board Members Absent: Matt Fraze! Irene GnegM Staff Members Present: Linda Lutz Karen Taira - Others Present: Jeff Lomax, computer consultant Lisa, Meditl Journalism student Ladd Arboretum Web Site The Board talked with Jeff Lomax regarding the creation of a web site for the Ecology Center, Ladd Arboretum and Evanston Environmental Association. Several different sites were viewed. Mr. Lomax has volunteered his services to - create a web site for the Ecology Center. " The Board determined that the web site should include information on the Ladd Arboretum, Ecology Center, Ladd Arboretum Committee, and the Evanston Environmental Association. Several domain names were checked. ecology center.org was taken by the Ann Arbor Michigan Ecology Center. Mr. Smith moved, seconded by Mr. Guth to use Ladd Arboreum.org as the domain name. Mr. Lomax said that the web site framework falls into two phases; the first phase establishes who we are, and the second phase is interactive. Mr. Lomax will work with Mr. Smith should questions arise_ The web site will be configured so that Ecology Center staff can actively maintain the site. - !' , The Board thanked Mr. Lomax for his willingness to provide the development of ' { the Ecology Center web site. = Building Renovation The Board reviewed a letter from the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District regarding the notation that the MWRD can reclaim the land on which the Ecology Center is located at 60-day notice. Ms. Lutz will check vAth Janice Hill of the MWRD real estate division to see if the M% VRD has any plans for the area or if the language in the letter received is standard language for all leased land. Questions were also raised about the Army Corps of Engineers and the possibility of moving the locks at Wilmette_ The implication is that a marina could be built along the canal. The Board discussed the issue of the large program area planned for Ecology. - - a Center classes and public rental space. The Board decided that one large room was preferable to the room with a large divider. The project schedule for the renovation involves having information to the City Council for their December meeting. The bad packages would go out mid - January and selection of a contractor would be approved by City Council during February. Construction will hopefully begin in March or April depending on the weather. Ladd Arboretum Master Plan The Board had a brief discussion on developing a master plan for the Ladd -= Arboretum. Currently there is no plan that takes into consideration the growth and aging of the Arboretum. In order to maintain the Ladd Arboretum for its established purpose, a place where a variety of woody plants are grown that can be used for educational, recreational, and aesthetic purposes, a plan should be developed that maintains the resource of the arboretum as it ages. The master plan would include the east end of the Arboretum where the deep tunnel project is being expanded over the next 2 years. The LAC would like to actively participate in the development of the master plan. and will consider the proposal in detail at a Later date. Possible funding for the master plan could come from the City of Evanston and/or the Evanston Environmental Association. Ecology Center Budget Ms. Lutz explained to the Board that the 2000-2001 budget for the Ecology Center has been submitted to the City. The budget is a continuation budget with - the City providing the same level of funding as in the past year, generally 1/3 of the operating budget, or approximately $100.000, City staff review budget submissions and the budget may receive additional funding (highly unlikely) or have budget coats taken away from the submitted budget. The budget that the Ecology Center submitted is what will cover the costs of having the same programs and services continue for 2000 —2001. Final deliberations on the budget occur in February 2000. Staff Resignation Elaine Ferns will be leaving to move back to Michigan where she has purchased a house. Ms. Ferris has been with the Parks/Forestry and Recreation Department for 13 years. the last year of which was spent at the Ecology Center. Meeting Schedule for 2000 The Board agreed to continue to meet on the first Monday of the month at 7:00 PM for the year 2000. Program Update Ms. Lutz reported that the Dried Flower Sale grossed approximately $4,000. The Halloween program, Animal Architects, was successful with approximately 300 people attending over 2 nights. Cold weather may have been a factor. The winter program schedule is out. Community Garden Representatives will be meeting on November 9t'. Next meeting The next meeting of the LAC will be Monday, December 6t', at 7:00 PM at the Ecology Center. Respectively submitted, Linda Lutz Ecology Center Coordinator Draft- Not Approved Ladd Arboretum Committee Monday, October 4, 1999 7:00 PM Board Members Present Pat Frank Irene Gregory Gordon Guth Myra Janus Charles Smith Board Members Absent Staff Members Present: Ecology Center Programs Marti Bjornson Matt Frazel Linda Lutz, Ecology Center Coordinator Ms. Lutz reviewed upcoming programs including the Dried Flower Sale as well as the Halloween program. Most programs are being held off site as building construction was anticipated when programs were planned. Community Gardens Ms. Gregory noted several issues with the community garden at .fames Park. Ms. Lutz will have the Community Garden Coordinator set up a meeting with garden representatives to discuss issues and will report back to the Board. Ms. Gregory also suggested a perennial divide where people could donate divided perennials. She will research further. Board resignation Ms. Frank announced that she will be resigning from the Board and that this would be her last meeting. The Board thanked Ms. Frank for her service and wished her well. u � Budget Ms. Lutz has submitted the Ecology Center budget to the Parks/Forestry and Recreation Department. The Director will review and revisions are anticipated. The City requires a zero increase budget that does not leave room for major changes. Next Meeting The next meeting of the Ladd Arboretum Committee will be Monday, November 1, 1999 at 7:00 PM at the Evanston Ecology Center. Respectfully submitted, Linda Lutz Ecology Center Coordinator P$AFT - not Ivaroved LADD ARBORETUM COMMITTEE MINUTES Board Meeting August Z, 1999 7:30 PM BOARD MEMBERS Marti Bjornson BOARD MEMBERS Gordon Guth PRESENT: Irene Gregory ABSENT: Matthew Franell Myra Janus Pat Frank Charles Smith STAFF PRESENT: Elaine Ferns, Board Secretary Programs at the Ecology Center include summer camps and sign up for the Friends of the Park (new park carelpark watch) program There was discussion on the feasibility of effort in a park watch program with only four signed up to date and construction also scheduled this fall. Some discussion ensued on targeting neighborhood groups for publicity and demonstrating positive ways local people can make a connection as a model. New Business The fence at James Park is complete. Some work remains on locking mechanisms and water pressure. Mr. Smith moved to adjourn the meeting, Ms. Janus seconded, the meeting was adjourned at 9:07 p.m. The next meeting is on Monday, August 30,19" at 7:00 p.m. Note the change in date. Respectfully submitted, Elaine Ferris Ecology Center Secretary L ADD ARBORETUM COMMI TEE MIIYUTES Board Meeting July 12, 1999 7:00 PM BOARD MEMBERS Marti Bjornson BOARD MEMBERS Pat Frank PRESENT: Irene Gregory ABSENT: Myra Janus Gordon Guth Charles Smith STAFF PRESENT: Linda Lutz, Ecology Center Coordinator Elaine Ferris, Board Secretary Ms. Lutz welcomed new Board member Myra Janus, who is involved in INVEST and in Leadership Evanston. Current programs at the Ecology Center include summer camps and sign up for the Friends of the Park (new park care/park watch) program. New Business Mr. Smith announced the Lighthouse celebration of National Landmark Status on July 18. Ms. Bjornson asked to add "members absent" to the monthly minutes. Minutes were approved. Ms. Bjornson moved to adjourn the meeting, Mr. Smith seconded, the meeting was adjourned at 7:32 p.m. The next meeting is on Monday, August 6, 1999 at 7:00 p.m. Respectfully submitted, Elaine Ferris Ecology Center Secretary 103 A.1 X ,� 1LADD ARBORETUM COMMITTEE MINUTES Board Meeting June 7, 1999 7:30 PM BOARD MEMBERS PRESENT: STAFF PRESENT: Marti Bjornson Irene Gregory Charles Smith Gordon Guth Matthew Frazel Linda Lutz, Ecology Center Coordinator Elaine Ferris, Board Secretary Deep Tunnel Project Harza has started construction on the deep tunnel project in the Arboretum. The proles is expected to be completed in two years. No calls have been received on the trees removed for this project. Community Garden Update The garden fence at James Park is up, gates are expected in about two weeks. The landscape architect is in contact with the contractor throughout the project. Park Watch Staff has been requested to initiate a park watch program. Flyers will be distributed at the park dedications. Citizens would respond to park conditions, report damage or unsafe conditions etc. and may receive some training as the program evolves. Ms. Bjornson suggested this may have ramifications for the arboretum as well. Bathroom renovations are complete. The summer camp starts the second week in June, Wildflower (34 year olds) Camp is at Ecology. New this year is "Kinglet" camp for five -year - olds at Lovelace Park. City Council approved the installation of a traffic signal at the Bridge Street/ McCormick intersection. Mr. Guth moved to adjourn, Ms. Bjornson seconded. Meeting was adjourned at 9:00 pm. Naa meeting is 7:00 p.m. on Monday, July 12 at the Ecology Center, 2024 McCormick. Note the change in date due to the holiday. Respectfully submitted, Elaine Ferris Ecology Center Secretary DRAFT - not aooroved LADD ARBORETUM COMMITTEE Board Meeting May 3, 1999 BOARD MEMBERS PRESENT: BOARD MEMBERS ABSENT: STAFF MEMBERS PRESENT: Marti Bjomson Pat Frank Matt Frazel Irene Gregory Gordon Guth Charles Smith None Linda Lutz, Ecology Center Coordinator Board Vacancies There is still a vacancy on the Ladd Arboretum Committee. The vacancy should be filled soon; especially in light of the upcoming Ecology Center renovation project. Loyola Crew Ms. Lutz noted that she had received several complaints regarding the Loyola Crew team that practices in the canal launching from the Skokie dock site. Ms. Bjornson noted that the herons and ducks are 'gone' when she has walked along the canal. The Loyola Crew team used a megaphone as well as a motorized boat in which the coach rides. The Board agreed that Loyola Academy should be approached regarding the importance of maintaining the canal ecosystem. Community Gardena Ms. Gregory noted that her compost area had been cleaned up as requested and told the Board of incidents with her garden. Ms. Lutz noted that she and Mr. D'Agostino had met with James Park community gardeners earlier this evening regarding the fence and water line work that will be done as part of the James Paris redevelopment project Summer Camp Programs Planning is well underway for the summer camp programs. Due to the long waiting list for Terminal Buds, the end of summer Ecology Camp, a second camp will be run from the Ecology Center. Friends of the Park Ms. Lutz discussed with the Board a new pilot program that will be run through the Ecology Center called the Friends of the Park program. Department Director Doug Gaynor is interested in having citizens more involved in reporting vandalism in the parks, park clean-ups, social and educational activities. Ecology Center Sculpture Ms. Lutz noted that the Ecology Center entrance circle will house a bird -like sculpture "Wings' through October. The artist is Ruth Ann Frazier. Ladd Arboretum The Board noted that the Ladd Arboretum continues to be a priority. Several areas such as the Bird Sanctuary and wildflowers beds in particular need more care. The Committee's goal is to have a mature arboretum with a nice understory. Next Meeting The next regular meeting of the LAC will be Monday, June 7, 1999 at 7:00 PM at the Evanston Ecology Center. Respectfully submitted, Linda Lutz Ecology Center Coordinator DRAFT - not approved LADD ARBORETUM COMMITTEE Board Meeting April 5, 1999 9:06 PM BOARD MEMBERS PRESENT: Marti Bjornson Charles Smith Pat Frank STAFF PRESENT: Linda Lutz, Ecology Center Coordinator Elaine Ferris, Board Secretary A quorum was not present. Staff advised the Green Bay road Deep Tunnel project is scheduled to commence May 1 st. It was requested that the Community Garden reports be considered quarterly instead of each meeting. The Board agreed. Garden Reports will follow meetings of the Garden Advisory Committee. Construction will be beginning in James Park in late April or early May and will include fencing around the garden and new water pipes and hose bibs. Bathrooms in the Ecology Center are being upgraded for AAA accessibility. Staff made special tiles with different leaf pattems to be included in the new construction. The men's bathroom is complete. Construction upgrade of the bathrooms at Lovelace Paris should be complete by June 30. There will be a school day on June 14, the first day of camp. It will be one hour. District 65 has agreed to let camps in the school auditoriums or gyms This will work except for Lincolnwood, which has a non -City recreational camp already in the gym. Staff is working on alternatives. All other Ecology camps are at non -school sites and are not affected. Registration is going very well. Final payments are due May 10, the parent information packet will be out in late April. There is still room for some counselors at camp. Possibilities for traveling classes to emphasis the Ecology Center in the community were discussed. Topics might be neighborhood "nature", compost, or a 15 minute slide show with accompanying animal for a "close up" touch of nature. A walk in the woods "Arboretum in the City" or the "Canal/North Shore Channel' could be other ideas for programs that would bring ecological programming, and the Ecology Center, to the forefront of people's minds. Cross generational activities with the Presbyterian Home was another suggestion, as was an 'alternate energy -a -thou" following the new bike path in Skokie just south of the Arboretum. The meeting was adjourned at 9:20 p.m. Respectfully submitted Elaine Ferris DRAFT - not sooroved LADD ARBORETUM CON1141ITTEE MINUTES Board Meeting March I, 1999 7:00 PAt BOARD MEMBERS PRESENT: Marti Bjornson Irene Gregory Jeff Singleton Charles Smith Pat Frank Alatthew Frazel STAFF PRESENT: Linda Lutz, Ecology Center Coordinator Elaine Ferris, Board Secretary Board Vacancies Current Board vacancies include one vacancy and Jets' SingletoWs resignation (who is moving). Ms. Bjornson will call one person and ask if they are interested in serving. Ms. Gregory will call on fundraisers. Ms. Bjornson extended the Board's appreciation to Mr. Lomax, a volunteer who vastly improved the membership computer entry format. She noted particularly that there are no aldermen who are EEA members. Ms. Bjornson and Mr. Smith will work on selecting members to contact about serving on the Board. FY 1999-2000 Budget Ecology Center budget was approved by City Council at S302,000 for FY 1999-2000. Classes, programs and special activities raise about 65% of revenues, which is in fine with other Recreation centers in the City. The year end bill for services for EEA was presented and approved, with the deduction of S 1725 credited to the Ecology Center from credit card memberships. Summer Camp Report Registration is going very well. This year revenue is deferred to match the budget year of camp, which will cause an apparent deficit in the current year (FY 1998-99). Registration is about S37,000 currently. Ms. Taira proposed and designed a new camp for five year olds called Kinglet Camp (named for a bird which is constantly active). It will be held at Lovelace Park and proved very popular - all morning sessions were filled in the first day of registration. New Business Ms. Frank suggested banners on the poles along the arboretum to make it more visible. Volunteers (time and/or money) are needed to help with the fundraising for the new addition. Ms. Gregory stated the presence of rodents in her garden at James Park. Staff suggested this could better be referred to the Evanston Environment Board. Ms. Gregory moved to adjourn, Ms. Frank seconded. Meeting was adjourned at 9:27 pm. Next meeting is 7:00 p.m. on Monday, April 5 at the Ecology Center, 2024 McCormick. Reaf 'tted, orris Ecology Center Secretary DRAFT - not aaaroved LADD ARBORETUM COMMITTEE Board Meeting February 1, 1999 BOARD MEMBERS PRESENT: BOARD MEMBERS ABSENT: STAFF MEMBERS PRESENT: Marti Bjornson Pat Frank Matt Fraze! Irene Gregory Charles Smith Jeff Singleton Linda Lutz, Ecology Center Coordinator January Minutes The Board approved the minutes of the January 11, 1999 meeting with the following addition: Under the Community Garden section, the last sentence of the first paragraph should read: Twiggs and McCormick gardens. Ecology Center Budget Ms. Lutz reviewed the Ecology Center budget. She noted that this year the Ecology Center budget will not achieve the projected revenues. The major reason for this is that all money received for the summer camp program registration will be put in an escrow account that will be credited to the Ecology Center March 1 st. This is the way the Recreation Division processes their revenues. The change is being made to be consistent with the Recreation Division. Board Vacancies The Board discussed the vacancy issue. After discussion the Board agreed to forward names of people possibly interested in the Board position to Ms. Lutz. Ms. Lutz will send out information to each person on the EEA and Ecology Center. The Board will review potential members at the March 1 meeting. Ms. Lutz will give a membership list to Ms. Bjornson and Mr. Smith; they will review and see if potential Board members could be solicited from the membership. LI Community Garden Ms. Gregory reviewed the break down of fees for the cost of the community garden program. She pointed out the difference in water costs for the gardens. James Paris seems to be very high compared to the other gardens. Ms, Lutz will investigate; figures for water were received from the water department. The Board had some discussion of the size of gardens, re -,assignment of plots, and potential dean up of the entire garden area through plot reconfiguration and assignments. Ms. Gregory indicated that she would We to attend meetings of the Garden representatives of James Park; these have been meetings with only garden representatives invited. Ms. Gregory additionally requested a report on the National Community Garden conference attended by Ms. Bjornson. Lighthouse Landmark Status The Board requested information on the status of the lighthouse and the lighthouse park district Ms. Lutz will inquire. Next Meeting The next regular meeting of the LAC will be Monday, March 1, 1999 at 7:00 PM at the Evanston Ecology Center. Respectfully submitted, Linda Lutz Ecology Center Coordinator 02/17/99 DRAFT - not approved LADD ARBORETUM COMMITTEE Board Meeting January 11, 1999 BOARD MEMBERS PRESENT: BOARD MEMBERS ABSENT: STAFF MEMBERS PRESENT: Marti Bjornson Matt Frazel Irene Gregory John Singleton Charles Smith Pat Frank Linda Lutz, Ecology Center Coordinator Election of Officers Mr. Singleton opened discussion of officers for the LAC. After discussion Mr. Frazel moved the following slate of officers: President: Vice -President: Treasurer, Secretary: Charles Smith Marti Bjornson Matt Frazel Irene Gregory Mr. Singleton seconded the proposed slate of officers and the Board voted to approve the proposed slate of officers. Officers terms will coincide with the calendar year. Board Vacancies The Board discussed vacancies. Currently there is one vacancy with another anticipated. The Board analyzed their strengths and what characteristics are missing on the Board. Several ideas were: fundraising experience, someone with children in the Evanston school system, and diversity of interests and connections throughout the community. The Board discussed various names and decided that current Board members would contact prospective candidates and report back at the February meeting. The Board indicated that the next year will be a particularly critical one for the LAC and EEA with both the Ecology Center renovation and deep tunnel project. Additional help for Board work can come from ad hoc members appointed by the LAC: the EFA can appoint additional Board members through the organization's by-laws. kl Deep Tunnel Project Ms. Lutz reported that 17 trees at the Green Bay end of the Arboretum were relocated to City green space on the other side of McCormick Boulevard The largest tree, a nice sized ginkgo, was a major production. Trees were transplanted and watered in mid - December. When funding is confirmed this spring the project will continue. The next phase will be to remove trees from the proposed work area; after tree removal the digging will begin. City Budget Ms. Lutz described the the Cdy's current budget crisis. All departments are being asked to cut expenses and increase their revenues. The issue came up about the difference in fees for EEA members and non-members. The EEA will be concentrating their resources on the Ecology Center renovation project. Community Garden Ms. Bjornson reviewed the Community garden representative meeting. A major issue was the importance of enforcing the date by which the garden plots must be planted. Representatives felt it would be good to have a full time person as community garden coordinator for immediate access to gardeners calls and questions. Representatives look forward to being more actively involved in the LAC and EEA. Some representatives offered to help with school programs such as the Fleetwood Jourdain program, Over the Rainbow, and with senior citizens. Ms. Bjornson reported on the ETHS group that has been doing community service at Twiggs garden. The Board discussed the cost of the community garden program. Currently the cost for providing the community garden service is approximately $54 per plot. Gardeners are charged $30 per plot. The Board agreed that gardeners should pay the cost of the service and approved the garden fee of $48 per plot for the 1999 gardening season. Gardeners will receive an explanation of the fee increase when the garden contracts are sent out in several days. Public Relations The Board discussed developing a publicity campaign to increase the community's awareness of the Ecology Center renovation and programs. Several sources to use would be the Evanston Roundtable, the two school districts, and our own publicity. The Board considered the public meeting schedule for the Ecology Center renovation. They agreed that the public meeting phase should take place in the month of March. Another idea is to have a small sign at the Ecology Center which highlights the project and schedule. Ms. Lutz will work with Ms. Muller, of Muller and Muller, to set up a time line for the renovation, set up the community meeting schedule, etc. The idea of developing a bookmark with the programmatic schedule may be effective in getting out the word about the Ecology Center. We need to develop reasons why Evanstonians should care about the Ecology Center. Next Meeting The next regular meeting of the LAC will be Monday, February 1, 1999 at 7:00 PM at the Evanston Ecology Center. Respectfully submitted, Linda Lutz Ecology Center Coordinator 01/28/99