BHIA Meeting Minutes (January 22, 2008) 
 

1. Markley Hotel Update:  It is believed that JBL has put in an offer to purchase the Dott property and possibly the lot across from Safeway.  While JBL reports that it is their intention to stabilize the property for a number of years to determine what the community needs, BHIA worries about the possibility for high density housing/rentals or “big” stores (i.e. Pet Smart, etc.).  There is the possibility for landmarking or entering into a covenant with the Dotts.  However, the Dotts will have to agree to these options and it appears that no one has spoken to the Dotts about these options.  Kurt/Atlantic Catering reported that JBL approached him about purchasing Atlantic Catering’s property and then renting the property back to the business.  However, Atlantic Catering is not interested in this offer.  BHIA will continue to explore this situation. 
2. Councilman Curran:  The Main Street application (Councilman Curran would like to see NOGLI & Hamilton’s application combined/conjoined), Baltimore City recycling program (neighbors can use bins other than those for sale by the city), MEAP and zoning for group homes/nursing facilities/emergency shelters were discussed.  The bill regarding the zoning for group homes has not yet been scheduled for hearing; this bill will have to be passed per a pending law suit within the judicial system.  Councilman Curran explained that he is attempting to amend this bill to require that any group home in NOGLI must consist of individuals who have resided in the NOGLI area for at least one year.  BH’s transportation issues/concerns were also discussed; Councilman Curran asked that any transportation issues within BH be emailed to the BHIA board; Councilman Curran asked the BHIA board to then forward on concerns re: sidewalks, signage, etc. to his attention.  Councilman Curran also reminded BHIA residents about the smoking ban going into effect as of 2/1/2008.
3. HARBEL:  Mike Hilliard discussed recent car thefts in BH.  The thefts have mainly occurred while people are leaving their cars unattended while warming up.  Mike reminded neighbors that leaving a car unattended while warming up is against the law.  Mike promoted the use of the club device to deter car theft.  He also reminded neighbors to make sure car keys are kept out of the line of sight (open windows, glass doors, etc.) in your home. 
4. COP:  BHIA needs more residents to participate in the Citizens on Patrol program!  If you are interested, please speak to Ned Worth/BHIA President.  As a volunteer with the COP, you are required to work one 3 hour shift per month.  It is BHIA’s intention to have more COP signage posted through the neighborhood.  The next COP workshop will be held on 2/2/2008 at 10:30am at HARBEL. 
5. Main Street Application:  Lorrie/NOGLI has requested participation from all of NOGLI (each neighborhood).  BHIA will need to submit a letter of support for this program/application.  Anthony will submit a letter of support as a Board Member. Anthony will also forward a sample letter to Ginger/BHIA Secretary; Ginger will then forward a letter of support from BHIA to Lorrie/NOGLI. 
6. BHIA Website:  Shan has worked very hard to get our website up and running.  It is BHIA’s intention to also get a newsletter up and running in conjunction with the website – in an effort to get information out to all BHIA neighbors.  It was mentioned again that Leslie Miller has offered her assistance (on more than one occasion) to help with the newsletter.  Mary Crocker has also offered to coordinate block captains for BHIA. 
7. BHIA Sign:  BHIA thanked Steve for his hard work with our sign.  Steve spoke in detail about the sign, the “Adopt an Island” program (volunteers needed!) and also passed out information on tree planting. 
8. Treasury Report:  David reminded neighbors that annual dues are being collected again – BHIA did not increase dues per household.  BHIA continues to request $10.00 per household per year.  Dues can be forwarded to David’s attention.  BHIA current treasury balance is:  $1936.02.
9. Business Association Liaison:  Kurt/Atlantic Catering is willing to assist to build a relationship between BHIA and local businesses.  
10. Social Gathering/BHIA Pot Luck:  BHIA is working to plan a gathering for all neighbors.  Kurt/Atlantic Catering is willing to sponsor this event.  More details to follow……