02-27-96 Residential Neighborhoods

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r---- Commfttitu Upor t: Residential Neighborhoods Committee 'Co the Common QCoututi of tbt QCftp of §outb Iatttb: . The February 27, 1996, Residential Neighborhoods Committee was called to order by its Chairperson, Council Member, Council Member Charlotte Pfeifer at 4:30 P.M. in the Council informal meeting room. Persons in attendance included Council Members Luecke,Pfeifer,Kelly and Broden; Pam Meyer, Beth Leonard, Mary Helen Tipps, Todd Zeiger, Ted Zakowski, Jennifer Sakowski, Cheryl Ashe,Pat Borham, and Kathleen Cekanski-Farrand. Council Member Pfeifer noted that she had called the meeting to receive information and have discussion on the various Partnership Centers operating throughout the city. She noted that Ann Mannix, from South Bend Heritage will be rescheduled. An introduction of all individuals present then took place. Mr. Todd Zeiger then gave an update on the Near Northwest Partnership Center which is located at 1215 Lincolnway West. He noted that a residential unit of approximately 2,500 square feet was purchased in December of 1994 and opened in January of 1995.He noted that the youth are involved primarily Junior High ages or younger. He described it as a "Learning Center"with some of the projects focusing on how to rehabilitate homes.Deloris Harrison is the Center Coordinator. Some of the activities which are drawing neighborhood youth to the center include having games and computers available.He also noted that fifth and sixth graders are involved in conflict resolution skills where they accumulate points which are earned to go on various field trips.He stated that the Partnership Center operates as a hub for outreach workers and emphasizes door-to-door contact. In response to a question raised by Council Member Luecke, it was noted that Memorial Community Health Partnership provides health care services where individuals who live within a six block area (District#12) are assisted. Approximately 30 individuals receive such services. They also have services from Legal Services, Code Enforcement, etc. He noted that there are positive benefits of using the existing NNN, Inc. which has been in existence for over 20 years.He also noted that the area appreciates the public works dollars spent in the area. Council Member Pfeifer noted that she has spoken with Pat Cressy. The Chamber of Commerce is having a Youth Leadership Program for high school students and are recruiting students now. She also noted that referrals of students of color are especially encouraged to be referred. Jennifer Sakowski then described some of the activities taking place at the River Park Partnership Center. She noted that it is affiliated with the River Park Neighborhood Association. She stated that the University of Notre Dame did a study from which that benefited. The River Park area has a high number of people who are gone from 9:00 A.M. to 5:00 P.M. Their Center is currently located in a basement which limits activity for the elderly. It opened in April of 1995. One of their more successful programs was an alley lighting program where 168 lights were installed. Installation with one full year of service was paid by the Center, and if individuals did not want the alley light left on often the first year and making the payments, it was then turned off. The cost per light per month is $6.50. They have also shown interest in a basketball league and are discussing a fun fair. Council Member Kelly suggested that sports activity also be encouraged and utilized in order to attract more youth to the Center.