Andrew Bashi, attorney from Great Lakes who is managing the Levy lawsuit, attended to describe the legal issues, the timeline and to respond to any questions. In short, HFNA is a co-plaintiff in this case, based on a vote taken by the executive committee effective 1/19/24. During the meeting, Bashi stated that the appeal notice was nearly complete and needed to be filed the following week. After this filing, a period of approximately 2 months is available to file the appropriate brief, although much of the content for our brief is already complete. As of the meeting date, 3 plaintiffs were a part of the case, although it is expected others will be added with time. Several questions were asked, in particular about the service agreement for our representation.Attendees also reviewed our current Facebook group policy. It was affirmed with no objections that while anyone can join the group and view content, participants – those who can post and comment – are reserved to HFNA members, by definition under our bylaws.
Attendees reviewed the timeline for the survey to use for our strategic plan. Marlena is to complete that and projects a mid-March availability to send it either electronically or by hard copy distribution.
Attendees spoke at length about several financial components. A neighbor has come forward to offer 1/2 of the 501c3 filing cost. Another has asked what is the recommended donation for membership dues. We discussed the possible tiering and criteria for membership dues. As yet, we have not had any follow-up from the Treasurer with a general ledger and await that information. Funding history at the garden, as an active committee, was discussed: Caton stated that a neighbor had received a couple of grant a few years ago which had been spent. There have been corporate donations and volunteer self-funding. It was agreed that we would take steps to open a banking account by mid-April and set-up various channels to allow for donations and funding. It was agreed that we would create a budget by end of March: each board member is to submit proposed line items for inclusion that the membership and board can vote on in April. This will inform our voluntary dues and other solicitations.
Monte advocated for exploring possible acquisition of a brick and mortar space, specifically a building located on the southwest corner of Vernor and Hubbard. He will reach out to DLBA.
ACTION ITEMS:
1. Sign the representation agreement and return to Bashi. Marlena (done)
2. Complete the survey for the strategic plan by mid-March. Marlena
3. Obtain general ledger information from Clark Park (fiduciary) ASAP. Nat
4. Submit line item budget requests for membership and board approval by end of March. All
5. Open bank account by mid-April. Nat and/or Marlena
6. Create funding channels by mid-April. Nat
7. Circle back with neighbors who have volunteered donations. Marlena
8. Monte to check into building ownership status.
Next meeting on Zoom, March 19 at 6:30 Eastern.