Citizens' Community Enhancement Commission

Citizens’ Community Enhancement Commission Meeting Notes February 21, 2012 Page 1 of 2 NOTES MEETING OF THE CITIZENS’ COMMUNITY ENHANCEMENT COMMISSION CITY OF DEKALB February 21, 2012 The Citizens’ Community Enhancement Commission of the City of DeKalb, Illinois was unable to arrive at a quorum for their regular meeting on Tuesday, February 21, 2012, so the following notes were taken in lieu of minutes. PRESENT: Commissioners present: Cohen Barnes, Susan Johnson, and Mike Mooney. Commissioners absent: Lisa Small, Camyle Tate, Brad Pietens, Brad Hoey, and Bob Boey. Also present were Rudy Espiritu, Assistant City Manager; and Patti McAdams, Executive Secretary; Mr. Marshall Dirks, Proven Winners Representative; and, Mr. David Barrow. Mr. Espiritu informed the Commission that Mr. Paul Rasmussen had resigned due to health reasons. Chair Johnson declared that a quorum was not present; however, those in attendance agreed that since Mr. Dirks was present they would discuss the “America in Bloom” program. Mr. Marshall Dirks, who is a representative of “Proven Winners,” presented an overview of the “America in Bloom” program. He also shared brochures showing samples and ideas of the beautification program. He explained that this is a national program what rewards and recognizes communities for beautifying their communities. The American in Bloom judging usually takes place in August and it was determined that it would be too late this year to participate. However, this spring and summer would be an ideal time to begin preparations to participate in 2013. Mr. Dirks offered several ideas on how the commissioners could begin the process; and that he would be available to act as a resource for the City’s plan. He provided many suggestions for this year including sprucing up the downtown as well as the entrances into the City. He especially recommended the Annie Glidden Road corridor into the NIU community. Mr. Dirks suggested getting the community interested in the program this year by contacting local banks and other community groups to volunteer to get the project off the ground. He also informed the Commissioners that recent studies have shown that streets with flowering planters and hanging baskets actually slow traffic and create a safer environment. Mr. Barnes and Mr. Espiritu asked “How do we get started and what are the next steps?” Mr. Barnes would like to make this a priority for the Commission.  Citizens’ Community Enhancement Commission Meeting Notes February 21, 2012 Page 2 of 2 Mr. Dirks gave Commission members some suggestions: ► The project needs to have a coordinator or a committee to undertake the effort. The project also needs a name or title. ► Meet with NIU representatives and other local groups to see if they are interested in partnering with the City in this endeavor. ► Seek volunteers to begin planting and spreading the word about the program. ► Begin in a couple of specific areas (Downtown, East Lincoln Highway, NIU/Annie Glidden Road corridor) using large containers so people notice something is being done. ► Set up a few planters this spring and from Mr. Dirks. He can provide fully planted 4’ x 4’ containers for $50.00 each to get started. He suggested 20 planters which would be $1,000. Mr. Espiritu stated the City would most likely be able to secure that amount. ► Use this year as a “kick-off” and officially begin in the spring of 2013. ► Mr. Espiritu and Mr. Barnes will arrange a meeting with NIU representatives the week of March 12, 2012 to share this information and to see if NIU has interest in participating in the program. ► Use the March 19, 2012 meeting to discuss and plan how to move forward with this program. No other items were discussed at this time. Patti McAdams Executive Secretary Recorder