The monthly meeting of the Walnut Beach Association was called to order by President Richard Coda at 7:10pm. Since we had two guest speakers present it was agreed to delay the regular business meeting until the conclusion of their presentations.

Bob Gregory, Community Development Director:

§ The developers of the new condominiums on Naugatuck Avenue have pledged $200,000 towards storefront improvements through low interest loans. This would include streetscape improvements such as sidewalks, plantings, trash receptacles, etc.

§ Bob stated that block grant money is not constant or guaranteed

§ Bob and Tom Ivers are trying to identify other sources of money i.e.: Long Island Sound Fund

§ The project at the end of Naugatuck Avenue, under the guidance of Malone and McBroom, is intended to more clearly identify the gazebo as a public place rather than the private property of the condominiums it sits adjacent to. Bob said it should happen by the end of this summer. This would improve beach access and would involve a general clean up, possibly a fence and archway. It was suggested the design team should be invited to speak at an upcoming meeting.

§ Bob revisited the issue of the Stowe Farm, reminding us the City purchased it to stop over development. The Fine Arts Council has offered to work with the City to develop it for multiple uses such as classrooms for art instruction, studio space for music instruction and other endeavors of a similar nature. Bob also said he is working on suitable signage.

§ There is also the possibility that office space for the Fine Arts Council may be created there to free up space in their current location.

§ We have the necessary money for planning but more is needed for the actual work. It is hoped work can begin by 2007.

§ When questioned about economic incentives for artists Bob said there is currently nothing concrete in the works. There is lots of discussion but money and structure is required.

§ Suzanne Urban inquired about the possibility of a commission of local artists. She feels these artists should be represented and have a say. She also commented that this shouldn’t only be viewed as what Milford could do for the artists but also what the artists could offer to our city.

§ Mary Ann Spangler inquired about linking to New Haven and/or Bridgeport to tap into their already existing arts programs. Bob said we are not connected to them but regard them as role models. Open Studios was mentioned as a successful venture.

Marcia Winter, grant writer for the City of Milford:

§ Marcia views her primary responsibility as co-coordinating, following up and looking for new sources of money.

§ She is researching collaborations between artists and businesses through such sources as the Community Foundation and the Bridgeport Foundation.

§ Marcia often “dovetails” with Bob Gregory.

§ She says there is money available for smaller projects.

§ She reminds us to keep our legislators in the loop-DeLauro, Dodd and Lieberman. Also keep our local politicians informed about community events.

§ Don’t forget the banks-visit their PR representative in person.

§ Establish relationships-get them on you boards-keep them informed.

§ Marcia can find grants for specific projects if she has the appropriate information

o What is the need-what’s the purpose

o Who is it for (hoe many will be served)

o How will you identify them

o What is the expected outcome (what do you hope to achieve)

o What is your budget for the project

At the conclusion of the speakers’ remarks the regular business meeting proceeded.

The Secretary’s report was submitted and accepted.

The Treasurer’s report was submitted and accepted.

§ January 9, 2006 balance $4560.07

President Coda welcomed a new attendee Harriett Grannick.

It was noted that Dick Anderson and Ellie Benefico have not been well. The membership voted to send them both something to cheer them up.

Elvira’s thank you card was read to the membership.

President’s Report:

§ The president met with Marcia Winter, City Grant Writer and Gloria Biagioni regarding proposed grants for the WBA. Requests for funding for streetscapes, sidewalks and the pier at the end of Naugatuck Avenue were submitted.

§ President Coda met with Tom Ivers regarding the proposal from McBroom and Malone for the end of Naugatuck Ave. Advised to proceed with design.

§ President Coda invited Bob Gregory and Tom Ivers to the January meeting. Tom is unavailable but Marcia Winter will attend with Bob.

§ Holiday party was a great success.

Committee Reports:

§ Membership 22 received

§ Festival-Kennedy School PTA is interested in running the children’s area-the Jaycees may get involved. Mary Ann Spangler, Festival Chair, is seeking volunteers. Please contact her if you are interested. They will be meeting soon.

§

§ Firehouse Gallery-Closed for January-accepting artwork for the new show opening on February 2 “Bon Appetite”-the gallery store is looking for new vendors and volunteers-a new textile show id being planned- the gallery wants more input from the community and the WBA. There is talk of “bridging” with the Stowe property. Mary Ann will invite the Firehouse Gallery director, Victor Molina, to our February meeting.

§ Block watch-all is quiet

§ Cookbook-at a standstill for now

§ Aldermanic liaison-Joe Garbus submitted his report through the president:

o Joe spoke with the Fire Chief, they are working on a project to make the community more aware of what to do in case of an emergency

o He is also working on a project for safety for Milford’s seniors-there will be a forum on Senior Housing Safety on January 30.

§ P & Z liaison-Nanci Seltzer submitted her report though the president:

o P&Z is working on changing the zone that consists of Walnut Beach and Devon. The 2 areas would be split into two different zones with two different definitions. The thought is that Devon would be zoned more for improving the business environment and Walnut Beach would be zoned as an arts community. To this end Nanci, along with Frank Goodrich, would like to put together a meeting of people from the Walnut Beach area to get their input. Whether they are residents or business owners Nanci and Frank want to know what they want or don’t want, what they think works or doesn’t work. They would like to present this information to the board when discussions of the zone changes begin. Some things to consider might be noise environments, times etc, what kind of look we want to achieve. This might be a good time for the committee looking into area designs to present ideas to Frank and Nanci so they can help.

§ Frank Goodrich also mentioned: Smith/Craft are interested in developing the Bridgeport Avenue area of Devon. Devon revitalization is considering becoming the “village district”. Resident must get new beach stickers every year.

§ Revitalization-haven’t met recently due to members illness

§ New members-no report

Old Business:

§ The Urbans spoke about their continued issues with Alfa Pizza and the discovery of dozens of “nip” bottles strewn around near their property.

§ The WB pavilion will have a grand opening with a movie and a concert.

New Business:

§ P & Z meeting January 17^th at 7:30 27 Broadway (Detar property) again requesting a zoning change to a four family dwelling-Vice President Mike Caro encouraged all to attend and speak against the application

§ Barbara Godejohn inquired as to whether Milford has a “blight” law and was told no. It was suggested we organize and make a presentation to the aldermen.

§ A letter from the Urbans regarding a unique project they have created was presented. It was decided to continue the discussion at the February meeting where they will have more opportunity to present their “Celebrate Walnut Beach” vision. One of Suzanne’s creations is a Walnut Beach bumper sticker which everyone loved. Cathy Coda made a motion that WBA purchase a supply and give them when people pay their dues. Tom Coiro seconded the motion. The website for Suzanne Urban’s designs is as follows: http://cafepress.com/sgstudio

The meeting was adjourned at 9:00pm with a motion by Joe Benefico and a second by Cathy Hamill.

Respectfully submitted,

Catherine Coda, Secretary