When past Northwood Neighborhood Vice President Jeannie Beckham posted in the Facebook group that, without new leadership, they would take action to officially dissolve the association, I made the decision to consider running for the board. And, I was heartened by the standing-room only gathering of residents who attended the meeting on October 13th. I was further heartened by other residents stepping up to run as officers.
Past President Leanna Lang and Jeannie lead two key discussions. First, they discussed the role of the neighborhood association. Then, they outlined the duties of officers. Before concluding, I would like to provide a quick overview about the role of the association and why we decided to continue:
Represent the interests of Northwood. As exemplified by the re-zoning of the Elysium property, the association provided an official conduit for authorities and the developer to discuss the interests of this neighborhood. This is an important function, and frequently, takes an official role in the zoning process. In the short-term, the association will seek to provide input on the “pocket park” on Silver Creek being planned by the City, near the intersection of Oak Creek and Silver Creek. In the long-term, the association can play a role in the planning of Robinson Ranch and in citywide upzoning plans.
Communication. Along the lines of zoning, the association will seek to be an official conduit for residents, businesses, other neighborhoods, and governmental entities to reach out on issues impacting our neighborhood. Both keeping neighbors and outside entities informed with relevant information and concerns is a key objective of the association. This would include environmental impact, as well as health and safety information. To accomplish this, we will rebuild our official website and provide relevant communication on a variety of channels to reach neighbors.
Connection. Organically, neighbors connect with neighbors in-person, online, and at social events. The association has helped facilitate social events in the past, and we plan on working with neighbors to renew this tradition and to promote “an atmosphere of goodwill,” as per our by-laws.
Other benefits. Years ago, a neighbor donated funds to help fellow neighbors treat oak wilt. This is a disease that can spread and impact other trees. A benefit of being a dues-paying member was a partial reimbursement for oak wilt treatment. And based on conversations and needs of residents, the board will consider other activities that benefit and engage neighbors.
This is a voluntary neighborhood association, which in many ways, is beneficial and makes our neighborhood a better place to reside. Still, we will need your help to build on the tradition of the Northwood Neighborhood Association. It is our goal to work with neighbors to contribute to our quality of life here.
Signed with regards,
Tom Greer ‘06, President
Co-Signed,
Mary Ann Thomas ‘80, Vice President Marilyn Galvan ‘00, Secretary
Mike Conwell ‘05, Treasurer
p.s. On behalf of the new officers of the Northwood Neighborhood Association, let me express my sincerest thanks.
We are thankful to the residents who attended the meeting and supported our decision to volunteer for the board. And, we’re thankful to past officers like Leanna Lang and Jeannie Beckham for their hard work.
Leanna and Jeannie have spent years volunteering on our behalf, notably spending a great deal of effort on zoning issues. They also were part of past and present boards who made responsible decisions and have kept the association running. Most recently, they paused dues collection during COVID and had to overcome more than many of us could ever know, including the passing of two board members - Donna Blumberg and Nancy Lemmons-Grijalva.
Thank you all!
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