HomeMy WebLinkAbout03-24-08 PARC CommitteePARC COMMITTEE
The March 24, 2008 meeting of the PARC Committee of the South Bend Common Council was
called to order by its Chairperson, Council Member Ann Puzzello at 4:05 p.m. in the Council's
.Informal Meeting Room.
Persons in attendance included Council Members Henry Davis, Karen White, Kathleen Cekanski-
Farrand, Council Attorney, John Voorde, City Clerk
Committee Members present, Derek D. Dieter, Vice-Chairperson, Oliver Davis, Member, Martha
Lewis, Citizen Member.
Chairperson Puzzello stated that an update on the progress at the Greenhouse & Conservatory
will be given by Martha Lewis who serves as both Citizen Member on the PARC Committee and
Treasurer of the Botanical Society. Chairperson Puzzello also introduced Terry DeRosa,
Director, Potowatomi Zoo, who has formed a working relationship with the Botanical Society and
who has the responsibility to oversee the facilities. Martha retraced the history of the
Greenhouses and Conservatory since the announced intention to close by the City for financial
reasons in late 2006. She then proceeded to detail the great progress made thru the efforts of
the many volunteers, the Botanical Society, the City, and other benefactors who have worked
toward along-term solution to maintaining & restoring and developing through endowment a solid
future for the facilities. The progress report of '07 and '08's focus is outlined in a M. Lewis
handout which is attached. In response to a question by Council Member Karen White's
questions, Terry DeRosa spoke to the formalizing of a memo of understanding as to how to best
utilize the many volunteers. Catherine Hostetler of Historic Preservation spoke to the efforts to
create and fund a permanent position of horticulturist. She said the Botanical Society was
applying for a grant; but said the ability to raise funds was hurt by the absence of a firm statement
of support form the city to keep the facilities open.
In closing, Council Member Puzzello said she wanted the Council to consider changing the name
of her PARC Committee back to the Park Committee. There being no further business to come
before the Committee, Council Member Puzzello adjourned the meeting at 4:22 p.m.
Re ectfully su fitted,
ci~ An a o, Chairperson
Attachments