Minutes of the Alva, Inc. Board meeting, October 11, 2001
 
Present: John Payne, Maria Pagan, Lynda Kendrick, Steve Brookman, Lynn Fensterer, Sarah Gillim, Rob Andrys, Martin A. Call, Fred Burson.  Guest: Deborah Forester

Meeting opened by Sarah Gillim president. Vice president Rob Andrys asked for patience and understanding from everyone in meeting expectations.  All were encouraged to help those who misunderstand to learn that process of our work includes everyone interested and that we want the input and involvement of all.  Most important, people should not assume decision have been made that are simply being discussed.

Minutes of last board meeting approved as written

Treasurer's report.  Lynn Fensterer.  Balance forward from 9/27/01:  $1951.07.  Deposits of $125 and $80 brought total to $2156.07.  Disbursements including bank fees (check #109) totaled $171.00.  Balance on hand:  $1985.07.  One deposit in transit:  $100.  Report accepted with thanks to the treasurer.
      Sarah Gillim pointed out that when we received funds from County sources, they must be accounted for very carefully and periodic reports filed.  All invoices must be filed for future reference.

Boundary concerns.   
      1.  Debra Forester from Bonita Bay Properties reported the following:  Williams Island in the Caloosahatchee River, east of Hy 31 has been purchased by Bonita Bay Properties, Inc. and they proposed that it be placed in the East Lee Planning District.  Historically Williams Island has been part of Alva, but is logically and geographically tied to the East Lee District.  They asked for all involved to agree to the change.   Rob Andrys pointed out that Alva, Inc. has not yet made firm boundaries and is flexible, and that Williams Island belongs in the East Lee District, especially since Bonita Bay owns adjacent property which is part of  East Lee.
      2.  Proposal to include Alva boundary up to Hickey Creek Road, as some residents who live on that road wish to be part of the Alva, Inc. community.  Rob Andrys observed that from the Lee County perspective there are no set boundaries for Alva.  He suggested that to have substantial discussions and decisions about boundaries at this time is to "put the cart before the horse."  The board asserted that we will make every effort to include all interested within a reasonable border line.  Alva Inc. chooses its own boundaries and negotiations will continue.  Consensus and guided expertise are needed to help with the decision making process.  It is important to identify the stake holders and hear their concerns.  It was determined to leave the boundaries nebulous and  bring all interested parties into the process as it develops.  Sarah Gillim expressed the need for our professional planner to be involved in the process, but that she has expressed a hesitation as this may become a "political issue."
      Concerns stated included the need for careful architectural planning and the "quality" of the community as well as land use limitations in setting up guidelines.

Professional Planner  The need for more professional planning from Carol Cunningham was raised by Sarah Gillim and others.  Rob Andrys will speak personally with Ms Cunningham concerning her involvement in the process.  Agenda for the next town meeting will be set after Rov Andrys consults with Ms. Cunningham.

Review of the Sunshine Laws:  All committee meetings must be planned two months in advance.  Newspaper must be contacted so that timely notices appear.  When two or more directors meet to discuss issues of substance this, too, must be publicized two weeks prior and recorded.

Water Concerns: Sarah Gallium reported that Water Management District water model for our area is broad.  Lava water issues need to be more specifically defined and that we ask the district for details as to the application of the general guidelines to the Lava community.  A need is to gather more data about water planning.  The topic was referred to the Agriculture committee.

Notification of meetings:   Mailing lists need to be created for the entire Alva area.  it was reported by David Lee that to purchase and send notices would cost from .17 - .35 each for bulk and/or nonprofit postage.  It was proposed to mail to entire Alva zip code area, although his includes people outside the Alva area.  Sarah Gillim will consult with the post office to learn what services are available.

Fundraising / Membership Committee  Linda Kendrick and Maria Pagan need workers to help set up for Saturday, Oct. 13 picnic at Alva Community Park.  Board noted how well planned the even is and commended Maria and Lynda.

Planning Committee  Rob Andrys, chair.  David Lee reported that he met with five different persons including a designer and representatives of the Department of Transportation.  Also school board members have been consulted who expressed interest in working with Alva Inc.  Preliminary design work will be completed within the next two months.

Transportation  committee asked if Alva Inc. could accept the part of SR 80 in order to move the property out of Habitat for Humanity into some entity which could hold it until a plan for the future of the park could be completed.  Lee County does not want the property returned to them.  If Alva, Inc. took over the property the liability and indemnity insurance could be from $1,000 t- $2,000 annually depending on the size of the membership of Alva, Inc.  It is hoped that the county would accept liability and include it in their umbrella insurance coverage, but that the goal of the county is to divest itself of all small parks so this may no be possible.  Alva, Inc. may need to take title to help get the process started.  Future of the park is related to issues over the planning for the road intersection from the state/county.  Habitat for Humanity will be contacted by Rob Andrys to determine if they will agree to held the property until plans can be determined.

Next meeting  Board:  November 8, 7 p.m.  Alva Museum-Library.
      Alva Inc. Community town meeting:  November 29, Alva Middle School, 7 p.m.