Ashton Heights Civic Association Meeting Minutes for 11/29/2018

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Ashton Heights Civic Association Meeting Minutes 11/29/2018 as relayed to Jodie Flakowicz by Scott Sklar

Erik Grabowsky, who heads Arlington County’s Recycling efforts, went through the entire portfolio of Arlington recycling programs. Answer’s questions for 20 minutes.

Brooke Alexander, who heads our Tree Canopy and Native Plants Subcommittee, went methodically through the set of AHCA principles for tree canopy, native trees, and open spaces. We discussed all the issues and they will be made more concise for a final vote at the AHCA January 2019 meeting.

Brooke Alexander covers the CSA program of fresh farm vegetables and eggs which will be starting again shortly.

Scott Sklar, AHCA President, reviewed Committee reports:

Development Committee – David Phillips and Jack Spilsbury reviewed AHCA Development Principles at the last AHCA meeting and had a subsequent committee meeting with about 15 AHCA members. Dave, Jack, and Scott are working this Sunday to refine them into  a concise updated AHCA Development Principles, and a more detailed list of AHCA Development Operating Guidelines, for a vote at our January 2019 meeting.

Transportation Committee – Patrick Lueb is tracking the Wilson Blvd from North Monroe St through 10th Street North, and Clarendon Circle (which is in progress). We are following these and activities carefully.  Also raised that 10th Street North has now been under the authority of Arlington County transferred from State of Virginia, and the County is looking for ideas.

Crime and Safety Committee, Christina Schultz (list prepared beforehand by Christina Schultz) which Scott Sklar read.

– For the previous quarter (July-September), most crime rates decreased from the quarter prior (April-June) with the exception of larceny and stolen vehicles.

– The majority of larceny cases come from unlocked vehicles.

– The incidence of stolen vehicles has increased because people are stepping away from running vehicles. This is particularly the case for Uber Eats drivers. With the approach of winter, the ACPD recommends resisting the temptation of going back in your house while your car is heating up. It is harder to steal running cars if you have the key fob since the car must be a certain distance from the fob.

– While there has been no change in robberies, this crime has mainly been occurring after dark. There is a concern that robberies will increase when the Ballston mall reopens.

– Holiday shopping tips at stores and on-line were provided. I can post these on the listserv if anyone is interested.  

– Another issue that came up was electric scooters (e.g., Bird, Lime).  Several concerns were noted during the meeting. The County is still grappling on a regulatory framework for this new form of transportation. In the meantime, the County  has approved a nine-month demonstration program to evaluate dockless bikeshare bikes and electric stand-up scooters, referred to as shared mobility devices.  Thanks for your support.   Christina Schultz

Submitted by Jodie Flakowicz, Ashton Heights Secretary

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