SHNA Executive Committee Meeting
Wednesday, August 27, 2025, 6:30 pm
Via Zoom
Draft Meeting Minutes
I. Members in attendance via Zoom: Jon Dunham, James Jordan, Rusty Monhollon, David Mucci, Mariana Nieto, Betsy Ostrander, Matthew Paul, Meleah Perez (guest), Joan Stone, and Gary Webber.
II. Minutes of the spring meeting, May 7, 2025, accepted and approved by acclamation.
III. Treasurer’s Report, presented by James Jordan, new balance of $1,250.00. We have a large percentage of new members. Jordan sent thank you notes for renewals. The report was approved by acclamation.
IV. Old Business
1. LAN update was given by Gary Webber. Gary Webber and Sherry Ellenbecker attended the August meeting. LAN is an unincorporated association of Neighborhood Associations, founded in the 90’s over various crises in Lawrence neighborhoods. It’s an umbrella association to help neighborhood associations solve problems and deal effectively with the city. Annual dues are $25.00. LAN was Opposed to recent changes to the development codes and has complained to the City Commission, but it had no effect. They would like to know what they could do to better lobby for homeowners regarding taxes and costs of homes along with other topics. They would like to be more effective and are open to suggestions. Perez had a question regarding LAN attendance. Webber explained that all are welcome to attend but only 1 vote by a designated representative is allowed per neighborhood. SHNA would welcome any member to attend.
2. Matthew Paul would like members of the executive committee to please check their emails: exec@sunsethillna.org is the preferred avenue for email communication.
3. Matthew Paul asked for a discussion regarding development of neighborhood signs that would provide information about our neighborhood association and our boundaries. These signs could be placed in various places throughout our neighborhood like Centennial Park. Webber suggested forming a committee, and volunteered to coordinate with the City, contact Parks and Rec, and identify required sign information. Nieto likes QR codes. Approved by acclamation.
4. Matthew Paul motioned that it would be appropriate to remove the previous SHNA President, Jeannie Pease, from the SHNA Executive Committee distribution list. It has been years since she was President, and she has not been active on the Executive Committee. Webber seconded this motion, approved.
5. First Baptist Church sent the committee an email asking if we would include information regarding their Fall Festival in out next newsletter. It was determined that existing protocol for the SHNA newsletter is to not promote any businesses in the newsletter. Churches would be considered businesses regarding SHNA membership. Business promotion is permitted solely for newly admitted members. Business memberships are $10.00 and a general article regarding that business is included in the newsletter when they first join.
V. New Business
1. Matthew Paul welcomed a guest to the meeting, Meleah Perez. Perez is new to the neighborhood and lives near Centennial Park. Paul welcomed her and briefly explained how SHNA works. Perez introduced herself and expressed interest in becoming involved in SHNA and the EC.
2. The next meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, November 19, 2025, at 6:30 PM on Zoom.
Meeting adjourned.