OLDER MEETING BULLETS:


BULLET POINTS FROM THE 7/2010 MEETING


  • Meeting began at 7:10pm

  • It was noted that the East Point Christian Church would be celebrating its 100th year on October 3rd

  • Representatives from the East Point Fire Department spoke and reminded us that there are fans available for those in need and spoke to Meadow Lark Estates having great water pressure available in our area fire hydrants

  • Capt. Davis from the East Point Police Department spoke and passed out a clean report for crimes in our sub-division.  She also mentioned that crimes at Camp Creek Marketplace were up and were mostly “crimes of opportunity” when criminals can view valuables in a car and they break in and steal them

  • A question was posed to Capt. Davis regarding a scam.  A resident received a check and was asked to deposit it and return a portion of the money to the sender.  The check will turn out to be no good and the person receiving the check is then responsible for the entire amount.  Beware.

  • Capt. Davis also offered suggestions such as not accepting free key chains while shopping because many have gps tracking devices in them and also to use Wasp/Hornet spray as a weapon for anyone trying to forcibly enter your home.

  • The Treasurer reported no change from May as no dues or payable went out in June

  • It was noted that there are still a lot of people walking in the neighborhood, sometimes late, and that residents should keep an open eye.

  • Dr. Robinson noted that Mayor Pittman wants to have some small, informal, in-home meetings with residents so that she may hear their concerns personally.

  • Dr. Robinson also suggested that we take turns attending council meetings and she volunteered to organize the effort.  If you are interested please call her at 404-559-0520

  • A reminder was noted that we should be considering the goals of the organization

  • The election of secretary was tabled until the August meeting.



BULLET POINTS FROM THE 6/2010 MEETING

  • The meeting began at 7:09pm
  • Mr. Bryant asked for a moment of silence in honor of our fallen soldiers since we had just celebrated Memorial Day
  • The Treasury Report was distributed but due to the Treasurer’s absence, it was asked that June’s dues be paid in July
  • A list of homes that were sale in our neighborhood was listed and letters will be sent to those that are not up-keeping the property
  • It was noted that Ms. Callier is dealing with a sink-hole in her yard on Rolling Brook
  • The pothole on the Meadow Lark Drive curve was repaired in a somewhat timely fashion
  • Complaints were voiced about the sewer cover/cap at the corner of Meadow Lark Drive and Rolling Brook. It was stated that Georgia Power blamed a school bus but there are witnesses saying it was the contractors for Georgia Power once more
  • EPFD Firefighter Deutch spoke re: getting ready for summer storm season. Have extra water and food that does not need to be cooked, have pet and child needs ready along with any medicines and a first aid kit. Prepare by selecting a place to meet outside of the community and have an out-of-town person that you and each member of your family can check in with.
  • If a storm in eminent, consider gas and electricity shut-off and where you will move to in your home. Interior room or hall, on the floor against the wall is best. If you need to leave remember important documents –having prepared them before hand.
  • Upon return, wait for “all-clear” to reenter your area and home and when turning water, electricity and gas back on
  • We have seen some rise in crime around our neighborhood and neighbors are asked to be watchful and call 911 with any concerns
  • Police were called back to the same house at the top of Meadow Lark Drive after a previous break-in in April
  • There was a car-fire in Sykes Park the last week of May
  • Complaints were voiced that the language at the basketball courts was getting lewd again
  • A warning about a scheme to get people to pull over to the side of the road for attack / robbery, includes having a baby crib or baby seat on the side of the road with what looks like a baby in it. If you see this, call the Police and do not stop
  • It was noted that now EP Drug Enforcement Task Force is working 9-5 weekdays and further noted that this seemed crazy
  • Maas-Robinson stated that GA-Pwr had removed her fencing at the back of her property and she is now having issues with neighborhood children getting in her pool without notice or permission. They have also been seen throwing rocks into her pool
  • Concerns were voiced about individuals “walking” the pipeline area without knowledge that they were walking across private property
  • A reminder that GA-Pwr will be wrapping the project up soon and it will be more difficult to have issues addressed. We are planning one final meeting with the Project Manager and the MLENA and it was suggested that you keep eyes on your “land manager” to ensure your property is taken back to the agreed up state before the end of the project
  • It was suggested that members of the organization consider what goals we would like to achieve by years end and what goals for the future. We are asking for suggestions in coming meetings.
  • The topic of the cost of floral tributes was raised and it was suggested that we re-consider the amount we spend by only purchasing flowers for a death of a member in the household of a member in good-standing. Illness and death outside of the household would get a card instead.
  • It was stated that although attendance was low at this meeting that the MLENA has one of the strongest membership numbers in the EP area.
  • Officers were voted on for Round One Officers (President, Vice President, Parliamentarian). New By-Laws concerning the voting structure was re-read, then voting was completed by paper ballot and counted by Mr. Davis in front of those attending.
  • Results were: President: William Bryant
  • Vice President: Clayton Cooper
  • Parliamentarian: Mable Holt
  • Officers will assume duties at the July meeting on July 1st


BULLET POINTS FROM THE 5/2010 MEETING

  • The meeting began at 7:08pm

  • New neighbors were welcomed

  • Mr. Bryant thanked Mary Callier for the work at the front entrance sign

  • It was noted that a man was arrested after looking into windows at the first house facing ML Drive from Ben Hill. A few days later the house was broken into.

  • Also, a green BMW, belonging to the Salvo residence (faces Ben Hill Rd) was sitting on ML Drive near the sign and was vandalized in the same time period.

    Mr. Salvo witnessed trash being dumped along side of road, went through the trash and spoke to the owners

  • Mr. Bryant mentioned that we have a number of homes up for rent or in foreclosure that are not being kept up. (lawns, clutter) The Association will be sending letters to these residences.

  • Questions were raised about GA Pwr and when they will complete work.

  • Greg Fann spoke about getting support for an Amnesty Day for large trash items

  • An EP Fire Dept rep spoke about kitchen fires, smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detector, the need for prominent house numbers, keeping a list of medications you take in your wallet, staying hydrated this summer and more.

  • A rep from the EP Police Dept., Capt. Davis spoke about the city being short two code enforcement officers, and restarting the ride-along program. Capt. Davis also noted that EP does not have a major problem with gangs.

  • Mr. Bryant mentioned that there was a possibility of VA Facilities at Fort Mac

  • It was announced that two cars were broken into during services at St. Stephens

  • A reminder was announced that officer elections would be held at the June meeting.


BULLET POINTS FROM THE 4/2010 MEETING


  • The meeting began at 7:08pm
  • A letter will go out to Ms. Farlow of Meadow Lark Drive to thank her for the flowers she donated for the MLE sign
  • It was suggested that the city should clean up the gravel that was put down during the ice/snow storms on the sharp curve on Meadow Lark Drive. They are now a hazard
  • A new meeting will be set-up with Georgia Power over the last stages of clean-up, replanting, etc. from the pipeline project
  • The EP Police department is struggling with Senior officers leaving and dealing with politics of the city
  • It was noted that websites state that Freaknic is returning to the Atlanta area and the City of EP does not yet have a plan in place for the weekend of April 17
  • Mr. Bryant was congratulated for becoming the President of the The President’s Council of Neighborhood Associations
  • Mr. Bryant wants to go door to door in our neighborhood and personally invite everyone to our meetings
  • Representative Joe Heckstall spoke about:
  • Moving to EP in 1972 and being the first African American on City Council
  • His beliefs that bill HV21 will destroy Fulton County by re-creating Milton County
  • How the reformation of Milton County is about race and that Fulton County has a AAA bond rating and is considered one of the most successful counties in the nation
  • He spoke about his support of the new healthcare bill and how the State House has voted to “ignore” the President’s appointed Czars
  • Heckstall urged community involvement and to not openly criticize the City of East Point
  • He provided his contact numbers which are: office: 404-656-0220 and personal: 404-344-2062
  • Representative Vincent Fort returned and spoke about:
  • East Point completing its audit and moving into compliance and he will make the audit available to us soon
  • The redevelopment of Fort McPhearson (500,000 acres) is moving forward and that the people that it will affect are slowly moving away from the focus of the project. He urged that we attend the next meeting on April 13.
  • He noted that although Ft. Mac was wholly in Atlanta that it would effect East Point tremendously due to its proximity
  • Volunteer Coordinator of EP’s Main Street Board, Cybil Robinson spoke about:
  • The upcoming EP Spring Clean Fling on April 10 from 9am – 2pm including Yard Sale Booths for $10 and shredding of documents for attendees
  • She also noted the website www.DowntownEastPoint.com for the newsletter and on-going information
  • She also noted the “Taste Of East Point” event on May 1st and reminded us to complete the EP survey and the US Census
  • Firefighters from EPFD spoke about:
  • The upcoming Main Street Health Fair coming up on April 17th
  • And reminded us that we should keep hydrated to avoid heat exhaustion and that we can “ride” with the EPFD on calls via a request form and approval
  • They suggested that we take this time, after winter to clean out our chimneys
  • That they will provide free fans, smoke and carbon monoxide detectors upon request and will install the detectors free of charge
  • They also reminded us that there is No Burning allowed
  • Finally, a reminder that the association elections would be held in June. The offices that we will vote for are President, Vice President and Parliamentarian.


BULLET POINTS FROM THE 3/2010 MEETING

  • The meeting began at 7:12 pm

  • It was noted that Joe Heckstall would speak at the April meeting and Bill Edwards would speak at the May meeting

  • Guest speakers included Fulton County School Board Member Catherine Maddox and Sen. Vincent Fort

  • It was noted that the McBrady Andrews donation was made to the Mt.VernonChurch

  • Roadwork and Waterline repair that would close
    Dodson Drive
    to through traffic was announced

  • We were told of a burglary on
    Beech Drive
    in February

  • The final amendment to the new By-Laws passed.  They are provided on the website.

Ms. Maddox from the Fulton County School Board spoke about:

  • The “Cheating scandal” going on in a FultonCountySchool

  • Truancy is an issue for our schools and neighborhoods- and asked that if we said school age kids in the neighborhood during the school day to phone police

  • There is a new building being built at Tri-CitiesHigh School for $5m

  • There is a new Abuse and Fraud hotline – dial 770-873-6828

  • 2012 will see a new replacement for the BanikerSchool

  • She also noted that she would vote to end Elementary Band, Music and Orchestra classes to save money and wanted to keep School Nurses

  • She also stated that we could visit www.fultoncountyschools.org for more information

Sen. Vincent Fort spoke about:

  • His service in office for the last 14 years

  • How East Point has not completed an audit since 2004 (at the time of the meeting) and that calls to find out why or to see what could be done about that have gone unanswered and ignored by the city manager.  He has sent his concerns via letter to the city and it had been unanswered as well.

  • He noted that EP lost two “pots” of money from the state and from the DOT for inaction

  • He announced that EP was the largest city in the state that was out of compliance

  • Fort spoke to his beliefs that the two most important schools in Atlanta were on
    Metropolitan Parkway
    and provided technical education

  • He explained how Gov. Perdue has done nothing about transportation and Charlotte is surpassing Atlanta in that arena

  • He also noted that he was against the formation of MiltonCounty and the Mail processing plant moving to GwinnettCounty.

  • He ended giving his cell phone number for contact:  404-287-7116

 

Jackie Slaughter Gibbons spoke momentarily about the city submitting a budget on March 1st and wanting to move forward with road repair.

There were 23 people in attendance


BULLET POINTS FROM THE 2/2010 MEETING

  • Compliments to Benjamin’s of East Point for the great food that we experienced at out annual “All Together” meal for the neighborhood
  • It was noted that Mr. Rice is doing well after surgery.
  • Georgia Power is start patching and repairing the roads in our neighborhood soon.  They will determine what will be repaired.
  • Councilman Mitchell spoke briefly about being diligent with “policing” in East Point.  He noted that many senior or veteran officers have left EPPD and have been replaced with rookies.  He also provided his email address for members to contact him regarding any issues.  It is:  Clyde31260@aol.com.  Councilman Mitchell wrapped up his update by relaying that EP was trying to get grants from the Federal Govt in order to repair roads in the city.
  • It was reported by a neighbor that a member of St. Stephens Church was robbed in the parking lot of the church just after services recently.  It was noted that we should all be aware of our surroundings at all times.
  • Lighting for the neighborhood sign was once again mentioned and it was stated by Mr. Bryant that he has already asked for someone to look into the possibility of lighting the sign since there is already a junction box in place.
  • It was mentioned but not discussed that we should consider reevaluating the dues amount for the association and that the members should think about this and be ready to discuss it in the next couple of meetings.
  • It was noted, that like many neighborhood these days, MLE has many homes for rent.
  • The By-Laws committee submitted their proposal for the updated By-Laws.  All changes were read- through and accepted as presented with one change.  The change concerning the people serving on the By Laws committee will presented in the March meeting and voted on.  The new version of the By-Laws were approved by the members present.
  • It was announced that we would begin working on bringing the “Calling Post” listing up-to-date and work on getting as many homes in the neighborhood as possible on the list even if the residents do not attend the meetings currently.
  • Lights in SykesPark, that were reported to be “out” in the January meeting have now been repaired or replaced.
  • In 2009 neighbor, McBrady Addams, past away.  It was noted at the time that donations were requested in lieu of flowers.  A donation was never sent because of lack of information.  To right that, we voted on sending $50 as a donation to the chaarity of his family’s choice.
  • It was proposed that we set a budget for floral tributes and donations made from the association funds.  We agreed to discuss this issue in upcoming meetings. 
  • It was suggested that announcements regarding the poor health, hospital stays or neighborhood deaths be made via Calling Post and/or the website.  After a short discussion, it was noted that some may not want that information announced so broadly and that too much information may violate someone’s privacy.
  • Mr. Bryant announced that we would have many guests at the March meeting and asked that everyone invite their neighbors to the next meeting to hear Bill Edward, rep of SouthFultonCounty, Sen. Vincent Fort, and Rep. Joe Heckstall speak to the association.
  • There were 18 people in attendance.



BULLET POINTS FROM THE 1/2010 MEETING

  • Signs for the meeting were not put out in January due to Mr. Rice being ill.
  • A special prayer was spoken for the people of Haiti.
  • It was noted that the city was slow to put down salt and gravel or sand during the snow and ice storm.
  • The Neighborhood “Dinner Together” was discussed and it was decided that all attendees would pay for their own meal this year to conserve the association account. The dinner is to be held at Benjamin’s of East Point on Cleveland Ave.
  • The By-Laws update was tabled to the February meeting.
  • Major Boyce from the EPPD spoke about a new way of handling being a Block Captain and described the “house within sight” mode. More information will be discussed as we move forward with the program.
  • It was noted that the lights in Sykes Park are out and Maj. Boyce said she would check on that for us.
  • A heads - up for those with mortgages to be watchful of the City of EP as some tax records are showing as unpaid even though they have been.
  • Ms. Callier was thanked for the work that was done on the sign for Christmas and it was noted that more help was needed to keep that area cleaned up.
  • 18 people were in attendance.



BULLET POINTS FROM THE 12/2009 MEETING

  • The East Point Electric Company was invited to send a representative to the December meeting but no one from the EPEC attended
  • It was mentioned that a few of our street lights go off too often due to bad photo-cells. We will contact the city and ask them to address this issue
  • The Annual Wild Hog Supper was mentioned and anyone that would like to attend should contact Mr. Bryant
  • Mary Callier spoke about the January Neighborhood Dinner at Benjamins. The rate will be $20 per person for the buffet and the date of the dinner is set for January 31st at 1:30pm.
  • The By-Law committee will meet at the Davis’ Home to discuss and update the association By-Laws. The committee shall consist of William Bryant, Clayton Cooper, Nat and Audrey Davis, and Gerald Robinson The meeting is set for 12/17 at 7pm
  • It was noted that the changes in the planning and zoning committee for the City no longer require builders to get approval from the surrounding neighborhoods before creating a development
  • On Thanksgiving night there was a break-in and domestic disturbance in our neighborhood, making two break-ins in the last four months.
  • MLENA will match the 2008 contribution in 2009 for the Pathway Christian Church School.


BULLET POINTS FROM THE 11/2009 MEETING

  • New neighbors were recognized, introduced and welcomed
  • Speakers were asked to speak before the Old Business
  • Sharonda Hubbard, who is running for Ward A Council At Large spoke and asked us to support her in the up-coming election against Greg Fann
  • Council Person Clyde Mitchell spoke about his safety forum and crime in E.P.  He stated that he wants more money to go to the Police to fight crime and that residents should be more watchful through the holidays and call 911 when anything seems amiss
  • Council Person Marcell Reed spoke and stated that the officers of the Police force are doing well but the leadership on the force is lacking.  He stated that each resident in East Point should do their part to keep E.P. safe
  • Code Enforcement Officer Haley spoke and reminded us that leaves must be bagged for pick-up and noted that the city is seeing a rise (like most cities) in homes that are being lived in without electricity or water connected.  These homes are "condemned" by the city and the residents forced to vacate
  • Mr. Hackett was thanked for his work on the Community Forum in October before the elections
  • Georgia Power did the walk through the neighborhood with association reps.  No conclusion was achieved except that GAPwr kept repeating that the roads weren't ever repaired by the city so why should they repair them now.  Another meeting is scheduled
  • A rep from EP's Electric Company will meet with the association in December - so bring any issues you have with your bill to the meeting to discuss with the rep
  • A Christmas Party was suggested for 12/06 and nixed due to the short time frame.  It was decided that the Annual January "New Year" gathering will work better and Mr. Bryant will invite all neighbors to stop by his house on Christmas Eve for some Christmas Cheer
  • A reminder went out to the association that there is a rebate for those that install approved low-water usage toilets.  More information can be found on the EP City website or on the Fulton County website
  • The Block Captains should expect a Calling Post regarding a meeting with Major Boyce of the EPPD on Tuesday the 10th
  • It was suggested that the By-Laws be revisited and updated.  A committee will be formed in the December meeting and changes will be brought to the January meeting to be discussed an voted on
  • There were 27 people in attendance


BULLET POINTS FROM THE 10/2009 MEETING

  • A few homes on Meadow Lark Drive experienced flooding during the heavy rains at the end of Sept.  Some as much as 2 inches of water in basements and crawl spaces.
  • Georgia Power has refused to repair the damages that they caused to the streets in the sub-division but will perform a "walk - through" the neighborhood to see any damages that the trucks and work on the pipeline has caused.  This walk will occur on October 12th at 5pm
  • A rep from Georgia Power has been invited to speak to the association
  • Mr. Bryant will invite Chief Cloud to speak to our association in regards to our adopting the Fire Station on Ben Hill Road.
  • It was noted that there are people walking through the neighborhood late at night - around 2am-4am and it was suggested that anyone that notices this, call the Police to have them check it out.
  • Sharon Swapshire from the DeLowe-Connaly Neighborhood Association spoke and has organized a Community Forum to allow residents to meet and question the candidates for office in the up-coming election.  She asked for volunteers and for a contribution to be a part of the forum.  MLENA agreed to contribute an equal part (the same as other associations) to the event and Mr. Hackett will help organize and hold the forum.
  • Clyde Mitchell and Marcell Reed addressed the association
  • It was suggested that we invite a school board member to speak at an up-coming meeting
  • There were 31 people in attendance


BULLET POINTS FROM THE 09/2009 MEETING

  • The meeting began at 7:10pm with Dr. Robinson presiding in Mr. Bryant’s absence
  • There was a meeting regarding the future of the Ft.McPhearson site.  More community involvement was talked about and it was reported that the total asking price for the property is $750m
  • It was noted that the bottles will be filled with candy for the block captains to use to visit the neighborhood.  A calling post will go out to the block captains soon
  • We are seeing a problem with the wrong mail being delivered to the wrong address.  This issue was reported by a number of neighbors
  • The letter to GA Pwr has two corrections to be made and they will be sent out to GA Pwr, and multiple city and state leaders
  • Photos are being made of the damage to the streets and neighborhood by the GA Pwr / Pipeline Equipment.  This includes pot holes, cracked pavement, storm run-off, and property damage
  • It was announced that EP’s Main Street Board, in preparation for “Destination East Point” was asking neighborhood associations to join in a “Chili Cook-off”
  • It was suggested that each of us or as a community challenge the electronic meter readers that the city uses to read our Electric usage.  Residents have seen the devices dropped and mishandled and when asked about the calibration, the city employee was unable to answer.  There is a good chance that the readers are reading incorrectly
  • The idea of MLENA adopting the local Fire Station was raised.  Discussion of how badly they needed furniture and paint was noted.  It was decided that we would adopt the Fire Station on
  • Ben Hill Rd
  • and help the personnel there to have a better work environment.  We will be speaking with the city to make certain that we approach this in the proper manner
  • Mr. Robinson has been appointed to the Economic Development Board for Environmental Issues
  • Mr. Cooper has been appointed to the Main Street Board
  • On a sad note, one of our members has passed away.  In lieu of flowers, we will make a donation in his name to the charity requested by his family.  Please keep the Andrews family in your thoughts.



BULLET POINTS FROM THE 08/2009 MEETING

  • The meeting began at 7:10pm.
  • The Minutes from the July meeting were read and one correction was made. Block Capt. Name Kalvin Woods was replaced by Bill Collier.
  • There was an update from the EPFD (Ben Hill) and also tips on:
  • How to make sure you are not being followed
  • Shopping Awareness
  • Furnace Check for Winter
  • Gun Security and Safety
  • The Fire Department Rep also noted an increased number of 911 calls due to Heat Illness
  • Code Enforcement Officer Haley spoke and noted that MLE still has some issues with un-kept yards at vacant properties.
  • A letter to Georgia Power was written jointly by Saundra Robinson and Phyllis Jackson-Smith requesting a meeting with our community. A copy of the letter was distributed.
  • Discussion of the use of Dynamite for the bedrock area off Boulder Way by Georgia Power. GP reps spoke with Mr. Bryant and Mr. Robinson and assured them that there would be no damage to structures.
  • There will be a community meeting at Ft. McPherson regarding its status. More info to come.
  • There will be a calling post go out regarding the block captain program.
  • Some activity on the corner of Beech and Pebble has brought up concerns that there may be some drug selling or activity there and in Sykes Park. The police have been notified and asked to step up patrol and also asked to consider posting a car close by the intersection in the park.


BULLET POINTS FROM THE 07/2009 MEETING


  • Meeting began at 7:10pm with a smaller than normal attendance
  • It was noted that it had been too hot and too dry to replant the front sign with flowers but that was still on the "to do" list
  • Mr. Bryant wants the officers to meet with the Mayor and Georgia Power about repairing the roads that the large trucks are damaging once the Pipeline project is complete
  • It was suggested a letter should be sent to GA Pwr before meeting with them regarding the items we would like to see materialize
  • Block Capts were discussed and a listing of the BC's were distributed.  The listing failed to list "Dejarnette" and that Kalvin Woods would be the contact for that street
  • Flyers went out to all of the residents of Meadow Lark Estates announcing the up-coming visits of Block Captains and inviting all of our neighbors to join us at the monthly meetings.  They were also encouraged to check the website occasionally and sign up for the calling posts
  • It was stated that the flyers were costly, even being on plain paper.  The next flyers sent out should be on heavier stock and we will ask members if they can do any color copies at work
  • Mr. Robinson reported that the EPD has not yet announced the fine for EP and the September Water Issue
  • It was also reported that Mayor Macon wants to upgrade the city's Water Treatment Plant
  • Road Trip:  Mayor, some City Council and other guests including Mr. Bryant, MLENA President, visited Smyrna and Suwanee Georgia's new courthouses / city halls.  This trip was an exploratory trip to see if it would be feasible to build a new City Hall in EP.  The current City Hall is grossly in disrepair and not up to codes for the Americans with Disabilities Act.
  • It was mentioned that if Mayor Macon's plans for the new City Hall were to come to pass, that it would be built beside the existing City Hall on top of Cleveland Street, closing that street between Main Street and East Point Street.  It would be next to the current courhouse / police station.  This is estimated to cost $20m.  A developer would be given the land and he would build the new structure.  He would be paid $1m annually for 20 years and then the city would own the property and building.  This is only in proposal stage at this time
  • We were reminded to be mindful of people walking the streets in the sub-division.  There are a lot of new residents and we are seeing an upswing in young guys on the streets at all hours
  • The notice from the city re: the Sewer / Manhole Covers being inspected - was raised.  The letter from the city was poorly written and didnt make much sense except to say that although it asked for your permission via signature to come on your property, that they did not need permission and would be inspecting the portals from ground to underground sewers
  • It was noted that GA Pwr has about 6 more months of work but that we should be seeing the pipeline going through in July
  • A quick report on Wireless Security Systems was made by Clayton Cooper who stated that after contacting a few different companies that wireless systems could be used on most pre-existing security units and monthly rates for the reasonable companies are in the $25 range with nation-wide companies charging closer to $55 per month.  There is a set-up fee that ranged from $250- 400 depending on company - but all in all its worth the added expense for security
  • It was noted that East Point should have a much better reputation that it has.  There is never "good news" or "promotional information" put out about the city and there seems to be a "marketing" person for the city.  Attendees asked Mr. Bryant to invite the city's "marketing" person to see why this is
  • Stas Rusek, a resident of Meadow Lark Estates, spoke and is running for City Council Ward D At Large.  Mr. Rusak stated that he is not running against Slaughter-Gibbons but is running for the seat.  His issues included a better image for EP, better care of the city, wants city fathers to work together more and dream big for the city.  He has invited all to visit his website at http://www.stasrusek.com/index.html
  • Before wrapping up the meeting, it was proposed that we adopt some sort of "cause" and we were asked to think about this for the next meeting


BULLET POINTS FROM THE 06/2009 MEETING


  • Guests included: Mayor Joe Macon, CP Jackie Slaughter-Gibbons, CP Marcel Reed & CP Clyde Mitchell
  • It was reported that the neighborhood yard sales went very well for all involved. The Association paid for the permits, signs and an ad in local media while we were also listed on websites and handouts in other neighborhoods. The city plans to hold another city-wise yard sale in the Fall
  • The new signs for the entrances to the neighborhood, that announce the meeting were presented. Four were purchased, all are heavy duty metal with two being double-sided
  • There are 15 people signed up to be Block Captains. There will be a meeting for those block captains Monday, June 8th at 7pm in the same place we hold our association meetings
  • There seems to be large concentrations of volunteer Block Captains from certain areas and so some may be assigned areas outside of their house area. Block Capts will most likely be changed annually or every other year
  • In an effort to be pro-active in this economy where crime is up, Mr. Bryant suggested that each household consider changing their alarm systems over to a wireless unit so that if phone lines are cut, authorities can still be notified
  • VP, Dr. Saundra Robinson, attended the President’s Council and reported that there is a city-wide push to get more people involved with their neighborhood associations and ask each associations to consider: Do people need rides? Or Are we eligible for a grant?
  • Speaking of Grants, Mr. Bryant is investigating with our State Representative to see if our association is eligible for grants
  • Dr. Robinson also noted that there will be a Meet-n-Greet for association officers at the EPFD #3 at Camp Creek on Sunday, July 26th from 3-6pm
  • A “Walking Trail” was suggested by Dr. Robinson over top of the GA Pwr easement where the pipeline is being placed. As the ground is repaired, this would be a good time to install something walkable. It was suggested we talk to GA Pwr to see if they would be interested in helping make it happen
  • The owner of the tractor truck that is intermittently parked illegally contacted Mr. Bryant due to someone calling about the truck being parked on Meadow Lark Drive. Mr. Bryant explained that he had no control over laws or city codes
  • The large Fox was spotted in the neighborhood again
  • Talk of an Autumn Neighborhood get-together was mentioned
  • Mr. Bryant mentioned that it was time to replant the flowers in the front sign’s planter
  • Police were called to the neighborhood to deal with kids that were riding go-carts extremely fast, in the middle of the roads and some without helmets. Once was seen being almost hit by an on-coming car
  • It was noted that there have been people walking through the easement of the GA Pwr project very close or on resident’s yards. GA Pwr will be called to step up security and this should be handled by Fulton Co. Sheriffs
  • Also noted – there is a house with new residents on Beech Drive that has some loud and rowdy teens living there. Visits to the home has been met with no answer. It was suggested that noise and loitering should be met with a call to the Police
  • Our community is doing very well with the participation in the association and crime rates and as we see more and more houses sold as Foreclosures for lower than market value we are seeing an influx of new residents. We need to invite them to participate in keeping the neighborhood safe and clean
  • We will be seeking to have the city add a “No Parking” sign in the cull-de-sac of Boulder Way
  • Mr. Robinson reported that we are still awaiting the amount of the fine that will be accessed by the EPA for EP’s issue with the drinking water in September 2008. He also noted the country-wide we are seeing more and more prescription drugs winding up in our drinking water and that that is a disturbing trend that needs to be addressed
  • Neighbors have spotted the EP City Debris Pick-Up truck leaving a trail of oil or fluid on the street when it stops
  • As we started to introduce the Mayor and some Council, it was noted that MLENA welcomes all to speak, including those that are running for election, but we do not, as a group or representative of MLE endorse any candidate
  • A suggestion was made that we ask candidates for re-election to bring a copy of their voting record to share with the association
  • CP Clyde Mitchell spoke and noted that the city was “turning around” financially. He is concerned that we need more Green Space and the EP FD and PD have what they need to do their jobs well
  • CP Gibbons reported that she voted for and likes the new City Manager, Jones. She also reported that the city is not yet charging for Sewer Back-flow meters yet and welcomed calls with questions or concerns
  • CP Marcel Reed spoke about his re-election and his dislike for the new City Manager
  • Mayor Joe Macon spoke saying that it had been a strange and interesting four years that mostly dwelt with a lot of harsh realities when it came to the financial state of EP. He reported that the city now has $6M in the bank and we were moving in the right direction
  • Candidate for Mayor, Threet Brown spoke about his years as a EP CM and his successful business in EP. He stated that if elected, he would be a full-time Mayor and that he was part of the group that brought the Camp Creek Marketplace to the city
  • The meeting was adjorned


BULLET POINTS FROM THE 05/2009 MEETING

  • Mr. Bryant began the meeting at 7:08pm by welcoming new neighbors and welcoming back those that we had not seen in a while
  • Dustin Driver - President of the Colonial Hills Neighborhood Association was introduced and spoke about the up-coming City-Wide Yard Sale that we are participating in.  He stated that there will be two City Wide Yard Sales a year.  He also stated that he would place our neighborhood on the map for the yard sale so that others could see we were participating
  • We will place an ad in the AJC regarding the Yard Sale and participate along with Colonial Hills, Frog Hollow and Jefferson Park
  • Master Gardener, BJ, spoke.  She is with the Master Gardners of South Fulton County and invited our attendees to stop in to their offices on Washington Road with questions and for tips on the best gardening techniques.  She mentioned that they could also be a help with gardening issues you may have.  They also sponsor "Plant Sales" where the proceeds go to scholarships
  • The Code Enforcement Officer reminded us that we will need Yard Sale Permits for the City Wide Yard Sale - sidenote:  MLENA will be paying for the permits for members in good standing - Also make certain that you get permits for any work you have done on your home.  This will protect you in the long run from scam contractors and fines for not getting permits
  • CE reminded us that Lawns are to be kept mowed and manicured.  We have a couple of homes in foreclosure in the sub-division and they have un-cared for yards.  Citations are being issued to the property owners
  • CP Ernestine Pittman spoke and stated that the King Bldg on Cleveland Ave has a buyer that wants to convert it to Senior Living Apartments.  She discussed the MEAG Refund which is the overpayment on Utilities but the amount of the refund is unknown. 
  • Ms Pittman discussed that overall in EP that housing values are declining and that would mean that money to run the city is being lessened.  This will be countered by raising the milidge rate. 
  • Ms. Pittman also mentioned that although residents are being charged for back-flow meters for the sewer system that none had been installed
  • The topic was raised of the bumbling the council and Mayor have made in hiring a new City Manager.  They seem to be going after the one person, Crandall O. Jones, that made it clear he had no interest in the position.  It was stated that they have offered him a salary that surpasses the salary for the Mayor of Atlanta.
  • It was again noted that we should be very dilegent when voting so that we get honest people in office that make good decisions for the city.


BULLET POINTS FROM THE 04/2009 MEETING

  • New neighbors to the Association meeting were welcomed
  • Mr. Bryant announced that he has invited all of those individuals running for Mayor of East Point to speak at one of our meetings.
  • It was noted that when we get new signs for the meetings that instead of a date listed on them they should simply say "This Thursday"
  • The motion to change the name of the organization was carried from "Home Owners Association" to "Neighborhood Association".  If there is ill effect on our status with the IRS then we will "dba".  Sidenote- the website graphics will be updated soon
  • We had a reminder not to put or throw food into our yards for pets because we are seeing more wild animals entering the neighborhood
  • Residents are encouraged to be watchful of and/or phone police to follow-up on anyone walking the streets that seem out of place late at night
  • It was noted that the EPA is assessing the fine for East Point for the water contamination issue in October of last year.  It was stated that East Point has been less worried about the fines and does not proactively fix issues.  The new administration in DC is now enabling the EPA to pose steeper fines.  More information to follow when available
  • A reminder to all residents and drivers in the sub-division.  There is a posted speed limit of 25 miles an hour and there are walkers and children about
  • It was also noted that residents that sit with their children in cars waiting on the bus in the mornings at the Ben Hill entrance should park as far over against the right curb as possible.  Also do not park within 50 feet of the stop sign
  • Mr. Bryant will be speaking with GA Power to ask that they make certain they clean up the roadway of debris and mud each day during the construction and digging for the gas pipeline
  • The newsletter that was proposed in the March meeting was passed around for suggestions and ideas.  It should be mailed out to residents in April
  • The date for the neighborhood yard sale was set for May 16.   **LATER information has found that East Point is looking at doing a "city-wide" yard sale the same day.  We will post information on the home page here when more information is known
  • I t was noted that Parliamentarian Phyllis Jackson-Smith had had a death in her family and the Block Captain idea was tabled.  Flowers were sent from the association
  • A mention that one of the ideas for the Ft. McPhearson area has been building the new Atlanta Falcons stadium there.  Other developers are trying for the land as well.  It is important to stay up on these developments.  Also the old Ford factory that sat in Hapeville has been demolished and talk of a small "Atlantic Station" or stadium was mentioned for that location


BULLET POINTS FROM THE 03/2009 MEETING

  • The meeting began at 7:05pm w/ Secretary presiding in the planned absence of VP and President
  • It was decided that the association would write a letter to EP Code Enforcement regarding the parking of the Tractor Truck on Meadow Lark Drive. We will emphasize understanding but push for a resolution
  • A second letter was discussed regarding the reported prostitution seen on Washington Rd but further discussion after the meeting discovered that Mr. Bryant had already spoken to Police and they are now patrolling the area with a more watchful eye
  • We have seen an increase of foot traffic by teens during the day on the streets in the subdivision
  • A calling post message went out regarding a council meeting discussing the hiring of a new City Manager. The issue was not discussed at the meeting and seems to be an issue that will not be presented to residents
  • The extension of a runway at the ATL airport was raised. We decided that we need more information and that it is an issue worthy of discussion at later meetings
  • A multi-home yard sale was suggested for late April or early May. Members were asked to bring available list of dates to the April meeting when a date will be set
  • The Georgia Power Gas Pipeline was asked about and it was stated that digging will begin in our neighborhood in April
  • Through in-direct discussion, the association’s name change was readdressed. A discussion regarding the change from “home owner’s” to “Neighborhood” Association gave the members something to think about. It was suggested that everyone think about the change, the Treasurer will check to see if there is any ill-effects of a name change for the 503-C status or the checking account and report back in April where we will vote again
  • Block Captains were discussed at length and it was suggested that the Block Captain idea be interwoven with the image of Neighborhood Watch. A newsletter will go out that will mention that BC’s will knock on doors to obtain information / submit invitations to attend meetings. Also a call to those who would volunteer went out and a meeting will be organized by Phyllis Jackson-Smith to divide the neighborhood and set-forth guidelines for the block captains
  • Meeting adjourned at 8:30pm


BULLET POINTS FROM THE 02/2009 MEETING

  • Mr. Bryant thanked those members that attended the Wild Hog Supper
  • The committee that put the Feed Store Community / Association Dinner together was officially thanked
  • East Point is seeing a rise in crime, as other cities are, due to the failing economy.  Members were cautioned to be on the lookout for suspicious behavior and to phone 911 when something in our neighborhood seems out of place
  • It was noted that a house on Orr Drive, just outside of our neighborhood had been broken into.  Also a house on Dodson was the scene of storage for stolen cars
  • The question was raised "Should we change the name of the Association to drop the words "home owners".  A discussion noted that we didn't seem to be losing interest from community members because they were renting and the measure was voted down
  • New officers were nominated and voted on.  The list of new officers for the next two years is listed on the tab to the left of this screen under "Officers"
  • Code Enforcement Officer spoke at the meeting and noted that large trucks are not allowed in the subdivision, and business / work vehicles could be parked at a home depending on the size / axels / and placement of the vehicle.  No vehicle is allowed to be parked on the grass / lawn
  • The suggestion of "Block Captains" were readdressed and it was suggested we get a list of the addresses or a map of the neighborhood to portion out to the yet un-named Block Captains
  • It was decided that we deliver a letter to all households in the subdivison to update them on our meetings and invite them to attend and participate.  The secretary will draft a letter for the March meeting for approval from the group

* * * Meeting notes from 12/08 and 01/08 have been lost.


BULLET POINTS FROM THE 10/2008 MEETING

  • Three members of the Frog Hollow Home Owner’s Association attended our meeting .  They were attending to see the presentation regarding the testing of the sewer water and storm water systems. 
  • The PowerPoint presentation of the initial investigation of the East Point sewer system was presented by Project Managers Marceia Barlow and Ricky Adair.The presentation showed photos of andexplained the discovery period of the project and how, once identified, that issues will be resolved.The project is slated to last from August 2008 through August 2009 with the repair work to begin in January
  • Meadow Lark Estates Home Owners will be hosting a dinner during the meeting time for the December meeting.The cost will be subsidized so that the attending members pay a reduced rate.Information on location and other details will be announced in the November meeting
  • There is a new family that has moved into 3086 Meadow Lark Lane
  • Representatives from the EP Police Department phoned Mr. Bryant to state that they would attend the meeting after continuous requests by the organization.They did not show.The notice that was sent out regarding the bad water issue on September 1 was brought up and it was stated that the information provided on the letter was misleading and incorrect that the water was dangerous to consume and that further investigation of the incident will be pushed.
  • Members of the Meadow Lark HOA will attend the council work meeting on Monday evening to try to secure a face to face meeting with the City Manager who seems to be avoiding such contact with HOAs.
  • The Meadow Lark Estates Yahoo! Group was announced and information was distributed on how to set up a Yahoo ID and how to join the group.More information will be posted on this website under “Community News”The move of the Atlanta Christian College was raised and it was suggested that we have a council member discuss with us what the plans are for the land that it currently resides on.The college is located at Dodson Drive and Ben Hill Road and will close next year.
  • The topic of the Planning and Zoning Commission re-working its plan document was raised and it was noted that some very bad decisions were being included.See more under the “Actions Needed” page on this website.It was asked if we should have a newsletter for the neighborhood.More discussion will follow.