Port Allen Community Development Corporation

Meeting Minutes
Port Allen CDC Board of Directors Meeting

Date: Monday, March 10, 2008
Time: 6:02 PM – 7:55 PM
Place: Port Allen City Hall
Port Allen, Louisiana

Board Members Present: Reynard Douglas, Tabitha Gray, Julie Harris, Liz Holmes, Gary Hubble, George Jenne, Izetta McDowell, and Tammy Seneca

Board Members Absent: Lynn Bradley

Guests Present: Kathryn Perry, Garland Pennison

Type of Meeting: Regular monthly meeting of the Port Allen CDC Board of Directors

I. CALL TO ORDER
Liz Holmes called the meeting to order at 6:02 p.m. with a quorum present.

II. READING AND ACCEPTANCE OF MINUTES
Minutes for the February 11, 2008, meeting were approved (Gray/Hubble).

III. OLD BUSINESS
A. Election of New Chairman/Secretary/Treasurer
A motion was made (Gray/Hubble) and approved 8-0 to nominate and elect Reynard Douglas as Chairperson of the CDC Board. The meeting was then handed over to Douglas. A motion was made (Hubble/Douglas) and approved 8-0 to nominate and elect George Jenne as Treasurer.

B. Act 18 Line Appropriation Funds
1. Port Allen Elementary Outdoor Classroom
Ms. Holmes has received calls from 100 Black Men regarding computers for Cohn Elementary School 2nd grade classrooms. The Board discussed using Act 18 funds for computers for a targeted math tutoring program at Cohn at the December 10, 2007, meeting. Tammy Seneca noted that Cohn Elementary received computers from Title I funds for the math tutoring program and will confirm the status of the computers with the principal Ms. French. Douglas stated that future proposals must be submitted in writing to the CDC Board.
2. Bank Account
The $10,000 line appropriation check was received from the Treasury Department on March 10, 2008. A motion was made (Gray/Seneca) and approved to allow Douglas and Jenne to open an account with either American Gateway Bank or Iberville Bank. CDC by-laws state that an operating account and a project account should be set up and funds deposited under the name of the Port Allen Community Development Corporation. Signatures of both the Chairperson and Treasurer are required for checks.

C. Planning and Zoning Advisory Committee—TND and Mixed Use Ordinance
Shaw explained the concept of the Traditional Neighborhood Development (TND) and Mixed Use Ordinances. Shaw will work with the Planning and Zoning Commission at the P&Z monthly meetings to draft both ordinances for Port Allen. The P&Z Committee would like for CDC board members to attend the meetings if possible.

D. Potential Land Banking Initiatives
Land banking was discussed as on option for the CDC including acquiring lots, obtaining grants and donated property, starting business incubators and collecting rent for income generation. The CDC may be eligible for U.S. Department of Transportatiaon ISTEA funds and programs. Action item for Shaw to call the IRS about the CDC’s 501(c)(3) status as activities are starting up.

E. Clean Up
1. Photos of Abandoned Cars
Involving the community in the overall community and encouraging people to donate cars or receive money for their cars was discussed.
2. Photos of Abandoned Cars in Rest of City
It was suggested that the CDC accomplish getting rid of abandoned cars in the Ferry area first before moving on to the rest of the city.
3. Photos of Deteriorated Housing
This item was not discussed.
4. Other
The City Council may be initiating a clean up effort. A clean-up day (city and/or CDC) could be advertised on the Neighborhood Watch website.

IV. THE FERRY
It was reported that an update was given by Terry Pennson at the last City Council meeting on street improvements and ditch closings. Monies left over will be used to close some ditches in the Ferry area.

V. NEW BUSINESS

VI. TENTATIVE AGENDA FOR NEXT MEETING W BUSINESS
The next meeting date is Monday, April 14, 2008, at 6 p.m. at the Port Allen City Hall. Tentative agenda items are listed below.
o Election of Secretary
o Port Allen Elementary School Project
o Planning and Zoning Advisory Committee—TND and Mixed Use Ordinances
o Clean-Up Projects
o One Year Plan of Action

VII. ADJOURNMENT
The meeting adjourned at 7:55 PM (Gray/Holmes).

Meeting Minutes
Port Allen CDC Board of Directors Meeting

Date: Monday, February 11, 2008
Time: 6:02 PM – 7:15 PM
Place: Port Allen City Hall
Port Allen, Louisiana

Board Members Present: Reynard Douglas, Tabitha Gray, Liz Holmes, Gary Hubble, and Izetta McDowell

Board Members Absent: Lynn Bradley, George Jenne, and Tammy Seneca

Guests Present: Kathryn Perry, Lucien Cutrera, Julie Harris

Type of Meeting: Regular monthly meeting of the Port Allen CDC Board of Directors

I. CALL TO ORDER
Liz Holmes called the meeting to order at 6:05 p.m. A quorum was present at 6:20p.m.

II. READING AND ACCEPTANCE OF MINUTES
Minutes for the January 14, 2008, meeting were approved (Hubble / Gray).

III. OLD BUSINESS
A. Election of New Chairman/Secretary/Treasurer
Board discussed nomination of chairperson, secretary, & treasurer; no new nominations offered. A motion was made (Gray/Hubble) and approved 5-0 to accept Julie Harris, Port Allen resident, as a member of the CDC Board.

B. Act 18 Line Appropriation Funds
1. Port Allen Elementary- Shaw presented an update
2. Bank-
• City uses American Gateway
• Iberville: free checking for businesses
• Set up trust?
Motion to allow Liz to sign for checking account (Hubble/Gray)

C. Planning and Zoning Advisory Committee—TND and Mixed Use Ordinance
Shaw made a presentation to the planning and zoning commission on traditional neighborhood development (TND) and mixed use ordinance concepts at the January 30, 2008, P&Z meeting. Liz Holmes invited CDC Board to work with Planning and Zoning and Shaw to help adopt traditional neighborhood development (TND) ordinance. Liz wants CDC to attend Planning and Zoning Meetings (last Wed of month).

D. Land Banking
Reynard would like to meet with Lu Cutrera and George Jenne.

IV. THE FERRY
A. Abandoned Cars/Clean-up Sites
Send letter to mayor with photos, but also ask for entire city. Put items on council agenda & bring residents to council meeting. Enforcement officer works Tuesday & Thursday.

V. TENTATIVE AGENDA FOR NEXT MEETING W BUSINESS
The next meeting date is Monday, March 10, 2008, at 6 p.m. at the Port Allen City Hall. Tentative agenda items are listed below.

o Election of New Chairman/Secretary/Treasurer
o Act 18 Line Appropriation Funds
o Planning and Zoning Advisory Committee—TND and Mixed Use Ordinances
o Ferry Clean-Up
o Land Banking Proposal

VII. ADJOURNMENT
The meeting adjourned at 7:30 PM (Douglas / Hubble)

Meeting Minutes
Port Allen CDC Board of Directors Meeting

Date: Monday, January 14, 2008
Time: 6:05 PM – 7:15 PM
Place: Port Allen City Hall
Port Allen, Louisiana

Board Members Present: Lynn Bradley, Reynard Douglas, Liz Holmes, Izetta McDowell, and Tammy Seneca

Board Members Absent: Tabitha Gray, Gary Hubble, and L. Terrell Joseph

Guests Present: Kathryn Perry, Lucien Cutrera

Type of Meeting: Regular monthly meeting of the Port Allen CDC Board of Directors

I. CALL TO ORDER
Liz Holmes called the meeting to order at 6:05 p.m. A quorum was present at 6:35p.m.

II. READING AND ACCEPTANCE OF MINUTES
Minutes for the December 10, 2007, meeting was approved (Seneca/Bradley).

III. OLD BUSINESS
A. Election of New Chairman/Secretary
No action taken.

B. New Members
Motion was made (Holmes/Bradley) with no objections to accept George Jenne as a new member. The Board will send a letter to Terrell Joseph advising him that, per by-law provisions, his membership will be dropped due to three consecutive absences and missing more than six meetings in the last 12-months. The letter will invite him to apply for re-appointment if he desires.

C. Education Program
The schools are preparing for standardized testing.

D. Act 18 Line Appropriation Funds—Vote on Proposals
Motion was made and seconded (Bradley/Seneca) to authorize Liz Holmes to sign a resolution for the Board to enter into a cooperative endeavor agreement with the state to administer the Act 18 Line Appropriation funds. Shaw will submit the application for an art education and construction project at Port Allen Elementary School.

E. Planning and Zoning Advisory Committee—TND and Mixed Use Ordinance
Shaw will make a presentation to the planning and zoning commission at its January 30, 2008, meeting to explain Traditional Neighborhood Development (TND) and mixed use ordinance concepts.

F. Commercial Update
Telo molecular is currently working on an initial public offering (IPO). Telo is considering offering loan packages to downtown Port Allen residents and/or obtaining a purchase agreement from a block of property owners.

IV. THE FERRY
A. Identify Fix-Up/Clean-Up Projects
Shaw will photograph abandoned cars in the Ferry. The Board will send a letter to the mayor requesting removal and then follow up as needed.

V. NEW BUSINESS
A. Land Banking Proposal
A motion was made and seconded (McDowell/Bradley) for Shaw to investigate land banking as a concept for the Ferry area.

VI. TENTATIVE AGENDA FOR NEXT MEETING
The next meeting date is Monday, February 11, 2008, at 6 p.m. at the Port Allen City Hall. Tentative agenda items are listed below.

o Election of New Chairman/Secretary/Treasurer
o Education Program
o Act 18 Line Appropriation Funds
o Planning and Zoning Advisory Committee—TND and Mixed Use Ordinances
o Commercial Update
o Ferry Clean-Up
o Land Banking Proposal

VII. ADJOURNMENT
The meeting adjourned at 7:15 PM (Seneca/McDowell)

Meeting Minutes
Port Allen CDC Board of Directors Meeting

Date: Monday, December 10, 2007
Time: 6:05 PM – 7:00 PM
Place: Port Allen City Hall
Port Allen, Louisiana

Board Members Present: Lynn Bradley, Liz Holmes, Gary Hubble, Tabitha Gray, and Tammy Seneca

Board Members Absent: Reynard Douglas, Izetta McDowell, and L. Terrell Joseph

Guests Present: Kathryn Perry, Jamie Bartel, Lucien Cutrera

Type of Meeting: Regular monthly meeting of the Port Allen CDC Board of Directors

I. CALL TO ORDER
Liz Holmes called the meeting to order at 6:05 pm with a quorum present; guests introduced themselves.

II. READING AND ACCEPTANCE OF MINUTES
Minutes for the October 8, 2007, and November 12, 2007, meetings were approved (Gray/Hubble).

III. OLD BUSINESS
A. Election of New Chairman/Secretary
No action taken.

B. Education Program
This item was not discussed.

C. Act 18 Line Appropriation Funds—Vote on Proposals
The Board discussed proposals for a community art project and additional computers at Port Allen Elementary and Cohn Elementary, respectively. Cohn Elementary will most likely be able to purchase computers for a math intervention program using Title I funds. CDC members will visit the Principal of Port Allen Elementary to discuss the proposed art project in more detail.

D. Capital Outlay Request
Shaw confirmed that Senator Marrionneaux sent a letter of support for the CDC capital outlay request. Shaw will contact Representative Regina Barrow for a letter of support. Shaw will also track the capital outlay request during the legislative session next spring.

E. Planning and Zoning Advisory Committee—TND and Mixed Use Ordinance
Ms. Holmes will put an item on the January 30, 2008, Planning and Zoning Commission Meeting to address adoption of Traditional Neighborhood Development and Mixed Use ordinances.

IV. THE FERRY
A. Identify Fix-Up/Clean-Up Projects
Shaw will photograph and inventory areas for clean-up in the Ferry. The Board will identify the top five priorities to be addressed and send a letter to the mayor.

V. NEW BUSINESS
A. New Members
George Jenne is interested in becoming a member and will be invited to the next Board meeting.

B. Commercial Update
Telomolecular is still interested in locating a new facility in the Port Allen area. They are working on a package to present to the community regarding potential programs and benefits for residents.

VI. TENTATIVE AGENDA FOR NEXT MEETING
The next meeting date is Monday, January 14, 2008, at 6 p.m. at the Port Allen City Hall. Tentative agenda items are listed below.

o Election of New Chairman/Secretary
o New Members
o Education Program
o Act 18 Line Appropriation Funds
o Planning and Zoning Advisory Committee—TND and Mixed Use Ordinances
o Commercial Update

VII. ADJOURNMENT
The meeting adjourned at 7:00 PM (Bradley/Hubble).

Meeting Minutes
Port Allen CDC Board of Directors Meeting

Date: Monday, November 12, 2007
Time: 6:05 PM – 7:35 PM
Place: PortAllenCity Hall
PortAllen, Louisiana

Board Members Present: Reynard Douglas, Liz Holmes, Izetta McDowell, and Tammy Seneca

Board Members Absent: Lynn Bradley, Gary Hubble, Tabitha Gray, and L. Terrell Joseph

Guests Present: Kathryn Perry, Aharon Varady, Kevin Durbin, Kaye French, Michelle Kauffman, Darrell Moore, and Arthell Brown

Type of Meeting: Regular monthly meeting of the Port Allen CDC Board of Directors

I. CALL TO ORDER
Liz Holmes called the meeting to order and guests introduced themselves.

II. READING AND ACCEPTANCE OF MINUTES
No quorum to approve minutes.

III. OLD BUSINESS
A. Planning and Zoning Advisory Committee—TND and Mixed Use Ordinance
Kevin Durbin, Director, WBR Planning and Zoning, gave a brief overview of the Parish’s Traditional Neighborhood Zoning ordinance (handout). Aharon Varady handed out a model mixed use ordinance and explained that mixed use zoning generally covers a smaller area and scope than a TND.

B. Act 18 Line Appropriation Funds
Michelle Kauffman, Principal, Port Allen Elementary, presented a proposal to incorporate art into the curriculum by creating a mosaic wall and sitting area in front of the school. Students, staff, parents, and volunteers would help to create the project and the school will seek the assistance of the Baton Rouge Arts Council for design, budget, and planning phases. CDC funds would be used to purchase materials. Kaye French, Principal, Cohn Elementary, presented a proposal to purchase computers for a math intervention program to bring student scores up to basic, mastery, and advanced. The newly hired teacher for the program has no computers in his classroom and the school’s request for computers was turned down by LSU. Both schools will provide a preliminary budget which will be distributed to CDC Board members before the next Board meeting.

C. Capital Outlay Request Submission
Shaw submitted a $1 million Capital Outlay Request by the CDC for infrastructure improvements in the Ferry. Shaw will follow-up on letters of support from Representative Cazayoux and Senator Marrionneaux.

D. IRS 501 (c) (3) Status
A letter to the IRS describing CDC’s community and economic development activities was given to Ms. Holmes for review and signature by November 15.

E. Election of New Chairman/Secretary
No action taken.

F. Education Program
Ms. Seneca reported that staff members are currently analyzing test score data to determine which skill areas need improvement so teaching can be geared towards school accountability requirements. WBR Parish schools will participate in a drop-out academy pilot program to reduce drop-out rates.

IV. THE FERRY
A. Identify Fix-Up/Clean-Up Projects
Ms. McDowell said the Mayor is considering doing a spring clean-up either by district or city-wide. The CDC suggested that the Image Improvement Committee do a survey of the Ferry and recommend areas for clean-up.

V. NEW BUSINESS
Ms. Holmes and Arthell Brown asked about Telemolecular’s plans for locating in WBR Parish. They will follow up with Deborah Biggs (WBR Chamber of Commerce) and Mayor Derek Lewis, respectively.

VI. TENTATIVE AGENDA FOR NEXT MEETING
The next meeting date is Monday, December 10, 2007 at 6 p.m. at the PortAllenCity Hall. Tentative agenda items are listed below.

o Election of New Chairman/Secretary
o Education Program
o Capital Outlay Request—Follow-up
o Act 18 Line Appropriation Funds
o Planning and Zoning Advisory Committee—TND Adoption

VII. ADJOURNMENT
The meeting adjourned at 7:35 PM (Douglas/Seneca).

Meeting Minutes
Port Allen CDC Board of Directors Meeting

Date: Monday, October 8, 2007
Time: 6:00 PM - 7:55 PM
Place: Port Allen City Hall
Port Allen, Louisiana

Board Members Present: Lynn Bradley, Reynard Douglas, Liz Holmes, Gary Hubble, and Izetta McDowell

Board Members Absent: Tabitha Gray, L. Terrell Joseph, and Tammy Seneca

Guests Present: Kathryn Perry, Lucien Cutrera, and Arthell Brown

Type of Meeting: Regular monthly meeting of the Port Allen CDC Board of Directors

I. CALL TO ORDER
Liz Holmes called the meeting to order and introduced members and guests. A quorum was present at 6:20 pm.

II. READING AND ACCEPTANCE OF MINUTES
The CDC Board approved the August 13, 2007, meeting minutes (Hubble/McDowell).

III. OLD BUSINESS
A. Election of New Chairman/Secretary
Shaw asked if CDC would be interested in contacting Mr. George Jenne about becoming CDC member. Gary Hubble will contact Mr. Jenne.

B. Nominating Committee
Lynn Bradley was appointed to the nominating committee.

C. Education Program
No report.

D. IRS 501 (c) (3) Status
Kathryn Perry gave update on status.

IV. OLD BUSINESS
A. Identify Fix-Up/Clean-Up Projects
Shaw presented 2006-2007 (Nov. 2005) capital Outlay Request. Current application (2008-2009) should be for infrastructure only (rather than housing and infrastructure). Improvements can include drainage, lighting, some land acquisition for ROW. Ms. Holmes will ask the mayor for PEC contact information. Lu or Lynn will call PEC for engineering estimates and copy of drainage study.

B. Phased Improvement Strategy
Phase I would include Kentucky and Atchafalaya. Projects are tied in with Capital Outlay Request

V. NEW BUSINESS
A. Planning and Zoning Advisory Committee-Initiate Zoning Ordinance Assessment
The planning and zoning commission would like to look into a mixed use ordinance as it does not want to do spot zoning.

B. Traditional Neighborhood Development (TND) Ordinance
This item was not discussed.

C. Act 18 Line Appropriation Funds
Possible projects for the $10,000 appropriation include those listed in III.C above and educational grants such as a $100 match program to provide laptop computers for students.

VI. TENTATIVE AGENDA FOR NEXT MEETING
The next meeting date is Monday, October 8, 2007 at 6 p.m. at the Port Allen City Hall. Tentative agenda items are listed below.
o Election of New Chairman
o Act 18 Line Appropriation
o Capital Outlay Request
o Planning and Zoning Advisory Committee-TND and mixed use
o Image Improvement Committee

VII. ADJOURNMENT
The meeting adjourned at 7:15 PM (McDowell/Douglas).

Meeting Minutes
Port Allen CDC Board of Directors Meeting

Date: Monday, September 10, 2007
Time: 6:00 PM - 7:55 PM
Place: Port Allen City Hall
Port Allen, Louisiana

Board Members Present: Reynard Douglas, Tabitha Gray, Liz Holmes, L. Terrell Joseph, Tammy Seneca, and Izetta McDowell

Board Members Absent: Lynn Bradley and Gary Hubble

Guests Present: Kathryn Perry, Carol Fitch, and Deborah Biggs

Type of Meeting: Regular monthly meeting of the Port Allen CDC Board of Directors

I. CALL TO ORDER
Liz Holmes called the meeting to order and introduced members and guests. A quorum was present at 6:07 pm.

II. READING AND ACCEPTANCE OF MINUTES
The CDC Board approved the August 13, 2007, meeting minutes (Douglas/Gray).

III. THE FERRY
A. Capital Outlay Request-Carol Fitch
The City of Port Allen is in the state budget for this year for Ave. D and water well improvements. Capital outlay requests are due by Nov. 1. The Legislative Session will start April 2008. The approval process follows the steps listed below:
o Application reviewed in Facility Planning
o House Bill No. 2 introduced by Division of Administration
o Current projects put in by amendment
o Appropriated but not funded
o Work with senator to get before Senate Commission
o Need cooperative endeavor agreement between entity and state

Priority 1-Money from previous year line of credit-bonds not sold. This is a holding place until bonds are sold and is only good for one year.
Priority 2-Current year funding. This is the best category as it represents a cash line of credit. Multi-year project will have planning as Priority 2.
Priorities 3 & 4-Place holders until all projects in Priorities 1 and 2 have been funded. On Capital outlay application, put Priority 2 funds (planning) in year 1 and Priority 5 funds in year 2.
Priority 5-Non cash line of credit.

B. WBR Chamber of Commerce-Deborah Biggs
Ms. Biggs mentioned that an out-of-state company wants to locate in the south, specifically Louisiana. It is a research and development company engaged in anti-aging and Alzheimer’s research. Mr. Brown and contingent with company’s office of Government Affairs in D.C. will be here entire last week of September. Company is working with Advantus Consulting which specializes in tax credits.

C. Identify Fix-up/Clean-up Projects
The Board identified possible projects listed below:
o Close in ditches, put in curbs, and gutter
o Clean up effort: involve neighborhood and city wide clean-up
o Buy culverts. City will install them and provide dirt
o Street lights for one main area
o Obtain estimates for improvements from PEC and city engineer.
It was noted that the City has been doing drainage improvements since January.

IV. OLD BUSINESS
A. Election of New Chairman
This item remains open.

B. Nominating Committee
Appoint temporary nominating committee at the next board meeting.

C. Education Program
School performance scores just released. Brusly schools all made yearly progress, while three parish schools went down over a 5 point drop. Ten schools are under a new scoring system and most school performances were flat.
D. IRS 501 (c) (3) status
Shaw will write a detailed plan of CDC activities for the IRS.

E. 2006 Forms
IRS Tax
Ms Holmes signed the 2006 IRS tax forms (990-EZ) on behalf of the CDC.

V. NEW BUSINESS
A. Planning and Zoning Advisory Committee-Initiate Zoning Ordinance Assessment
The planning and zoning commission would like to look into a mixed use ordinance as it does not want to do spot zoning.

B. Traditional Neighborhood Development (TND) Ordinance
This item was not discussed.

C. Act 18 Line Appropriation Funds
Possible projects for the $10,000 appropriation include those listed in III.C above and educational grants such as a $100 match program to provide laptop computers for students.

VI. TENTATIVE AGENDA FOR NEXT MEETING
The next meeting date is Monday, October 8, 2007 at 6 p.m. at the Port Allen City Hall. Tentative agenda items are listed below.
o Election of New Chairman
o Act 18 Line Appropriation
o Capital Outlay Request
o Planning and Zoning Advisory Committee-TND and mixed use
o Image Improvement Committee

VII. ADJOURNMENT
The meeting adjourned at 7:55 PM (Terrell/Gray).

Meeting Minutes
Port Allen CDC Board of Directors Meeting

Date: Monday, August 13, 2007
Time: 6:15 PM - 7:55 PM
Place: Port Allen City Hall
Port Allen, Louisiana

Board Members Present: Lynn Bradley, Reynard Douglas, Tabitha Gray, Liz Holmes, Gary Hubble, and Izetta McDowell

Board Members Absent: Frances Alexander, Terrell Joseph, and Tammy Seneca

Guests Present: Kathryn Perry, Lu Cutrera

Type of Meeting: Regular monthly meeting of the Port Allen CDC Board of Directors

I. CALL TO ORDER
Liz Holmes called the meeting to order and introduced members and guests. A quorum was present at 6:22 pm.

II. READING AND ACCEPTANCE OF MINUTES
The CDC Board approved the July 9, 2007, meeting minutes (Bradley/Hubble).

III. OLD BUSINESS

A. Election of New Chairman
This item remains open.

B. Nominating Committee
This item was not discussed.

C. Education Program
No report was presented.

IV. THE FERRY

A. Ferry Areas Identified
Preceding the business meeting, the CDC board members did a walk-through of the Ferry neighborhood to identify problem areas. A number of vacant and/or dilapidated properties were noted. The CDC could identify a signature home to fix up or have numerous houses on the list so no one house is singled out.

It was suggested that the CDC take photos of abandoned cars and structurally unsound properties and bring them to the City Council for possible condemnation action. Shaw offered to take photos identifying addresses and property owners and bring them to the next CDC meeting.

B. Strategy for Phasing Improvements
The CDC requested that Shaw provide estimates per linear foot for sidewalks, underground utilities, and subsurface drainage improvements along Atchafalaya and Kentucky Streets.

C. Capital Outlay Request
A motion was made and seconded (Gray/Hubble) to discuss having the CDC apply for capital outlay funds as an entity rather than going through the city. A unanimous vote (6-0) was made to apply for a capital outlay request as the CDC.

Shaw will contact Ashley Albritton to set up a number for the CDC and begin to draft a capital outlay request application. Gary and Tabitha will invite Carol Finch to the September CDC meeting to discuss the capital outlay process.

V. NEW BUSINESS
A. Planning and Zoning Advisory Committee
Shaw will bring an example of a mixed use ordinance to review for applicability to the Ferry area. Shaw will also obtain a copy of West Baton Rouge Parish’s latest Traditional Neighborhood Development (TND) ordinance.

B. Image Improvement Program
No specific items discussed here.

C. Change 501(c)(3) Status
Shaw will draft a letter to the IRS detailing CDC’s planned activities. This is to inform the IRS that the CDC will be changing from engaging solely in educational activities and to starting up economic and community development activities.

VI. OTHER BUSINESS
The CDC received a notice from the La. Treasury Department that it was awarded a $10,000 Act 18 Line Appropriation from the 2007 state budget. Shaw will download the necessary forms to request the monies from the state. Shaw will also draft a letter to Sen. Marrionneaux thanking him for his assistance. The CDC received its annual report from the La. Secretary of State’s office which was updated and will be mailed with the $5.00 annual fee. Shaw received a call from Ms. Frances Alexander saying that she has moved out of state and will thus be resigning from the CDC board.

VII. TENTATIVE AGENDA FOR NEXT MEETING
The next meeting date is Monday, September 10, 2007 at 6 p.m. at the Port Allen City Hall. Tentative agenda items are listed below.
o Election of New Chairman
o Act 18 Line Appropriation
o Capital Outlay Request
o Planning and Zoning Advisory Committee-TND and mixed use
o Image Improvement Committee

VIII. ADJOURNMENT
The meeting adjourned at 7:55 PM (Bradley/Gray).

Meeting Minutes
Port Allen CDC Board of Directors Meeting

Date: Monday, July 9, 2007
Time: 6:15 PM - 8:30 PM
Place: Port Allen City Hall
Port Allen, Louisiana

Board Members Present: Lynn Bradley, Reynard Douglas, Tabitha Gray, Liz Holmes, Gary Hubble, and Izetta McDowell

Board Members Absent: Frances Alexander, Terrell Joseph, and Tammy Seneca

Guests Present: Julie Rose (WBR Museum), Barry Brewer, Claire Sarradet, Kathryn Perry

Type of Meeting: Regular monthly meeting of the Port Allen CDC Board of Directors

I. CALL TO ORDER
Liz Holmes called the meeting to order and introduced members and guests. A quorum was present at 6:15 pm.

II. READING AND ACCEPTANCE OF MINUTES
The CDC Board approved the June 11, 2007, meeting minutes (Hubble/Reynard).

III. OLD BUSINESS

A. Election of New Chairman

This item remains open.

B. Nominating Committee
This item was not discussed.

C. Education Program
No report was presented.

IV. THE FERRY

A. Capital Outlay Request

Claire Sarradet provided a copy of the capital outlay application for fiscal 06-07. Shaw provided copies of the cover letter and fax transmittal for the capital outlay 05-06 application to Tabitha Gray. Ms. Sarradet stated that another source of infrastructure improvement funds is line item grants from the Division of Administration (Governor’s Office). Port Allen received grants to cover drainage ditches along Avenues A and B and a portion of Avenue C west of LA 1. The City also received grant funding for the south side of Rosedale Road west of LA 1, but problems still exist on the north side.

The CDC would like to start outlining specific steps to begin Phase I of the Ferry Redevelopment Plan. The August 13, 2007, monthly meeting will begin at 5 pm with a walking tour of the Ferry area. Members will bring maps from the Plan to note drainage problems, and areas needing improvements. Shaw will email the CDC to notify members of the earlier meeting time. PEC engineers will be asked to accompany the group to ensure coordination of drainage and street improvements. A motion was made (Bradley/McDowell) and approved to allow Ms. Holmes to approve the PEC invoice. The CDC will outline a plan of action, meet with the city, and invite Carol Finch to discuss the capital outlay application process.
B. Historical Significance
This item was not discussed.

V. NEW BUSINESS

A. Planning and Zoning Advisory Committee
Ms. Holmes invited CDC board members to attend the next upcoming Planning and Zoning Commission meeting on Wednesday, July 25, 6 pm, so the Commission could meet the CDC as the Planning Advisory Committee.

B. Image Improvement Program
The Image Improvement Committee (Bradley, Hubble, and McDowell) reported on its meeting with Samuel Sanders, Executive Director, MidCity Redevelopment Alliance, on June 19, 2007. The committee provided a draft timeline for starting a fix-up/clean-up program for the Ferry area. Items included getting CDC’s approval, meeting with the mayor, and developing an application form for interested homeowners. Shaw will email the timeline to the CDC membership for their approval at the next meeting and call the Mayor to set up a meeting.

Ms. Sarradet said the city received Community Development Block Grants in 1978 and 1980 from the state Division of Administration, but it was a very tedious process.

C. 501(c)(3) Status
Shaw is contacting the IRS to notify the agency of the CDC’s planned activities and determine what other steps are needed to change CDC’s educational organization status. Ms. Holmes gave the 2006 Income Tax return forms (Form 990-EZ) that had been sent to past Chairman Chris Guerin to Shaw.

D. Tree City USA
Barry Brewer noted that Port Allen applied for and received Tree City USA designation and has an urban forestry ordinance in place. The designation has lapsed and the city is not interested in pursuing the matter further at this time.

VI. OTHER BUSINESS
Barry Brewer discussed the lot of record issue. A lot of record is a lot which is part of a subdivision recorded in the WBR clerk of court office, or a parcel of land legally established and defined by deed or act of sale on or before February 8, 1989. One can build or modify a building on a lot of record that is smaller than defined in the zoning ordinance as long as setback requirements are followed. If the original lot is changed by subdividing or combining with other lots, then a variance may be required from the Board of Adjustment. Any non-conforming use on a lot of record is considered grandfathered unless the property is unoccupied for six months or more, in which case it would convert to the current zoning designation.

VII. TENTATIVE AGENDA FOR NEXT MEETING
The next meeting date is Monday, August 13, 2007 at 5 p.m. at the Port Allen City Hall. Tentative agenda items are listed below.
o Walking Tour of Ferry
o Election of New Chairman
o Capital Outlay Request
o Planning and Zoning Advisory Committee
o Image Improvement Committee

VIII. ADJOURNMENT
The meeting adjourned at 8:30 PM (Gray/Hubble).

Meeting Minutes
Port Allen CDC Board of Directors Meeting

Date: Monday, June 11, 2007
Time: 6:05 PM - 7:50 PM
Place: Port Allen City Hall
Port Allen, Louisiana

Board Members Present: Frances Alexander, Lynn Bradley, Reynard Douglas, Virginia Gough, Liz Holmes, Gary Hubble, and Izetta McDowell

Board Members Absent: Tabitha Gray, Joyce Jenne, and Terrell Joseph

Guests Present: Rev. William Laws (Scott United Methodist Church), Tammy Seneca (WBR School Board), Kathryn Perry

Type of Meeting: Regular monthly meeting of the Port Allen CDC Board of Directors

I. CALL TO ORDER
Liz Holmes called the meeting to order and introduced members and guests. A quorum was present at 6:06 pm.

II. READING AND ACCEPTANCE OF MINUTES
The CDC Board approved the May 14, 2007, meeting minutes (Gough/Hubble).

III. OLD BUSINESS

A. Election of New Chairman
No one approached by the Nominating Committee accepted nomination for chairman. This item will continue to be open.

B. Membership Drive
The Membership Committee will contact Ms. Murray about becoming a CDC member. Kathryn Perry informed the Board that Joyce Jenne will not be extending her current term past June 30, 2007. The position of Secretary will need to be filled. Virginia Gough is not extending her term and will need to be replaced on the Nominating Committee

C. Education Program
Frances Alexander reported that the school scoring configuration has changed. Port Allen Elementary is now only scored using the 3rd grade ILEAP. This hurt the school’s scores as 3rd grade scores were lower than last year. Cohn Elementary’s 4th grade LEAP scores were good and may or may not improve next year. The Cohn Skill Center is being used for state-of-the-art technology training for staff. Tammy Seneca noted that Port Allen High drop-out rates are going down and the school is starting a pre-GED program which will further improve drop-out rates. Port Allen Middle is still a struggle. The district received a grant to push literacy for pre-K through 12th grades. Ms. Holmes suggested they create a Power Point on the positive points of Port Allen schools.

IV. THE FERRY

A. Capital Outlay Request

1. Town of West Baton Rouge boundaries
The WBR Assessor’s Office was contacted for a map of the original subdivision. The map from the assessor shows an area bounded by Roosevelt Street, Kentucky Ave., Alabama Street, and Court Street.

2. Lot of record
“Lot of record” is defined in Appendix B of Port Allen’s zoning ordinance as “…a parcel of land which became legally established and defined by deed or act of sale on or before the date of adoption of the ordinance from which this appendix is derived (1989).” The current interpretation is that an owner can build on a lot of record if the appropriate setbacks are used. The CDC will contact Barry Brewer to further clarify this issue.

B. Capital Outlay Request
The CDC will discuss the capital outlay plan of action at the July meeting and invite Senator Marrionneaux and Representatives Cazayouz and Barrow to CDC’s August meeting. Shaw will look through the corporate files for the original capital outlay application. Gary Hubble will invite Ms. Carol Finch to the July meeting as she is familiar with the capital outlay process.

V. NEW BUSINESS

A. Planning and Zoning Advisory Committee
Ms. Holmes invited CDC board members to attend the upcoming Planning and Zoning Commission meeting on Wednesday, June 27, 6 pm, so the Commission could meet the members as the Planning Advisory Committee.

B. Image Improvement Program
The Board discussed putting the Image Improvement Committee on the back burner until more new members came on board. Gary Hubble asked how the image improvement program will fit into the Ferry redevelopment plan and if the Ferry area could qualify for any historical grants. Scott United Methodist Church is about 135 years old and Rev. Laws used to do title searches. Izetta McDowell, Lynn Bradley, and Mr. Hubble expressed interest in meeting with Mid City Redevelopment Alliance to get information on its clean-up and fix-up programs and Ms. Perry agreed to set up a meeting. It was noted that the CDC should coordinate with the mayor about the city’s clean-up efforts and ongoing drainage work.

VI. OTHER BUSINESS
The Board discussed distributing an updated contact list, changing its 501(c)(3) status, and preparing a plan for the next 12 months. Shaw will follow-up on the first two items and the Board will discuss the third at its next meeting.

Ms. Gough made a motion (seconded by Reynard Douglas) to nominate Tammy Seneca for membership. The Board voted unanimously to accept Ms. Seneca as a member.

VII. TENTATIVE AGENDA FOR NEXT MEETING
The next meeting date is Monday, July 9, 2007 at 6 p.m. at the Port Allen City Hall. Tentative agenda items are listed below.
o Election of New Chairman
o Membership
o Education Program
o Capital Outlay Request
o Planning and Zoning Advisory Committee
o Image Improvement Committee
o CDC’s 12-month plan

V. ADJOURNMENT
The meeting adjourned at 7:50 PM (Holmes/Gough).