Bates Area Civic Association

Bates Area Civic Association

Meeting Minutes

July 10, 2017

Convened 7:02 PM

Updates from the President

• BACA is working with the church to host a community breakfast at the church in September.

MPD Update

• No arrests made in the shooting from Memorial Day Weekend.
• Since the shooting occurred, there have been at least 5 officers on surrounding blocks 7 days a week; 24 hours a day.  Car/bike patrol will also continue.
• The Co-Op selected a security company — Capital Security Partners — began work July 10. The cars will be marked as “Special Police.” MPD is working with the CO-Op and the security company to address goals. Some will be armed. The SPO will have power of arrest. They can bar people from the premise. The SPO will be responsible for the CO-Op property, but not necessarily off the property.
• Crime stats have not increased, but package thefts still taking place.
• Co-Op will be organizing a community walk and will be inviting MPD and area residents to participate in the walk with SPO.

Updates from CM McDuffie’s Office

• The CM will be hosting a roundtable in Ward 5 to discuss DDOT issues on Thursday at Catholic University. Thursday July 13 at 6:30 PM.
• The CM recently released a report detailing his accomplishments over his past 5 years.
• There was a conversation about surplus property and working to release the Langdon School. DGS would need to deem it as surplus property. Commitment from the Council Member to take a resolution from the ANC if this is what the community would like.
• Some interest in securing a long-term lease in Slater School — may be coming before the community soon.

Development of 319 R Street NW

• The developers plan to create two units on the property.
• They presented two options for the development of the property to BACA and requested feedback and support:
  • Add a story to the home — to secure ANC support before BZA or
  • Build a new building within the zoning regulations on the site.
• The developers presented these options to the neighbors of the property, as well, who expressed a strong interest in preserving the building and recreating the turret on the top of the building.
• Question about possible parking and questioning if there would be possible space for two cars. The developers said there would not be.
• Comment about the importance of addressing blighted property in the neighborhood as a consistent theme from the neighborhood.

BACA voted to support the variance on lot on lot occupancy and deconstruction/reconstruction of the turret. 

Updates/Awards from Flower Power

• Flower power this year was a great success, resulting in $300 for BACA to engage in community activities and events.
• Awards were given out to the winners for best yards/tree boxes!

Meeting adjourned 8:30 PM.

BACA Meeting Minutes July 10 2017