Welcome, Peter Golemme, DHA President.  41 persons in attendance. Guest attendees included members of the Andrew Square Civic Association among others.

Police Update Officer Rich Doherty & Sgt. Bill Meade reported a relatively quiet month, but encouraged residents to leave no valuables or possessions in vehicles to prevent break ins.  

Parks Update: Ranger John Manson -Preparing for June 21s DHA cook out on the Heights. Visitations, open houses and special events discussed.  

Boston Shines, Joe Rull our liaison with the Mayor's Office described this Citywide cleanup project taking place May 6-7.  16 DHA members volunteered to participate in the Southie cleanup, which will take place on Saturday May 7 from 8:30-2:30 PM.  We are meeting at the High School at 8:30 but you’re welcome to join work groups in progress throughout the day.

Featured topic: Zoning and development.  Special Guest:  City Councilor James M. Kelly

Councilor Kelly introduced the discussion of zoning and development.  He stressed the importance of involvement and communication among neighborhood organizations and residents.  Darryl Smith, Assistant to the Commissioner of Inspectional Services and Elizabeth Leary, neighborhood liaison were present.  Mr. Smith addressed the following topics:. 

§         What are the roles of various agencies (ISD, ZBA, BRA, Landmarks Commission, etc.)?

·         How does one find out about proposed projects?

·         How does one find out the zoning and other rules applicable to a specific address or site?

·         What is the process of obtaining permits and zoning variances for projects?

·         What are the rights of abutters and neighborhood residents to participate in the process?

·         What is a developer entitled to do without a variance?

·         Who can appeal a decision before the Zoning Board of Appeals?

A 20 minutes question and answer period followed.  There were several informative handouts with information about the laws, process and resources, which include a Zoning Clinic, on-line information and various modes of notifications about specific projects.  Members expressed interest in forming a DHA committee to utilize these resources and help keep the neighborhood informed.  Peter will solicit volunteers for this committee via email.

Treasurer's Report B Pat Teague, DHA Treasurer -$368.00 current bank balance.  Biggest upcoming expense is the barbecue in June. 

Announcements & General business

·         May meeting:  Focus will be on Trash, litter, environmental concerns and City Services

·         June 21, 2005 BARBECUE AT THE HEIGHTS in lieu of June meeting

·         Career Day at SBHS planned for the fall –people with careers needed!

·         Poll of members regarding interest in neighborhood-wide Yard Sale in Aug./Sept.

·         Dues Reminder $5 per year, $10/household, payable in June

·         Still seeking monthly Web site sponsors $35/ month gets your name/link on the Web site

·         Crime Watch Meeting, 7 PM, May 3, at the Seapoint, Past President and current Webmaster Bill Kenneway encouraged all to attend.

Adjourn 8:35PM