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August 17, 2007
Associating A Neighborhood, Round 2
The sturdy and growing group that agreed to meet again after last month's impromptu session did indeed follow through and meet last night at a local religious center facility.
After an introduction by the guy who, ironically enough, came to be recognized as the "organizer" after he had mounted an effort to keep too much organizing from happening, several breakout groups were formed to discuss approaches to the association's future structure, the growing (some perceive) crime problem, how to effectively communicate amongst ourselves, and so on.
I tried to float around and hear each of the conversations, but eventually got drawn into the discussion about the structure. I think it's a lost cause for any of us who really would rather live in a laid-back, informal situation, because the consensus is around having a president and other officers, block captains, dues (ugh) and whatnot.
Oh, well. I won't just go sit and pout in my basement and stay out of it, because keeping close is the best way to monitor that these things, that most feel are necessary to promote crime deterrence, don't get out of hand. It's like voting: if you don't, you have no grounds for complaint about the politicians who are ruining your [whatever]. If I continue to go, participate, and speak up, at least I can't ever say that I haven't been heard, even if the group goes in a direction I would rather not.
Everyone came back together, and a spokesperson from each subgroup reported on what had occurred during the sessions. Then the "organizer" handed temporary chairmanship over to a gentleman who seemed acceptable to the vast majority in the room, and who had (as a volunteer) headed the structure committee; and several others volunteered to be temporary officers while the organization continues to solidify. And, as much as I've enjoyed the few years here without a too-formal association, I do see the necessity of having accountable persons when there is money (such as city grants, donations, or the dreaded dues) involved.
Councilwoman Marti Rutherford attended again, true to her word ("I never miss a neighborhood meeting unless I'm sick"), and advised the group on several points.
So, it's on, now. The Hilltop Neighborhood Association is moving steadily toward being a "full-fledged" organization. I still hope that those who originally tried to "get it going" will join the group, because, for one thing, I think they would be pleased to see how structured and organized it's becoming (even if I'm not). Their voices need to be heard just as much as I think mine does. Unfortunately, in one case I can think of, it may have been that there was a desire to be the President embedded in the desire to re-form the association, and now that such is less likely, we may not see this person at all. We'll find out, I guess.
Community | By joe lance | 08:18 PM