The meeting started at 7:30 with 34 people in attendance. President Sklar welcomed everyone, and thanked volunteers for providing childcare during the meeting, including Ann Belkar.
Kids, Inc.
Ann Felker introduced three youths – Eleanor, Layla, and Abby – who each detailed the chores they are able to help neighbors with as part of Kids, Inc. Kid’s Inc. was introduced to connect neighborhood youth with residents needing help with pet sitting, babysitting, or yard work. Eleanor, Layla, and Abby—presented their specific skills and certifications to the community. Ann provided advice to residents on setting prices for services and leaving detailed instructions for workers. You can find a full list of Kids, Inc. workers, the jobs they are interested in, and ways to contact them on the second-the last page of Ashton Heights Newsletter.
Neighborhood Advisory Committee Vacancy
President Sklar announced that the Civic Association is at risk of losing its spot on the Arlington County Neighborhood Advisory Committee without a representative. The committee is responsible for working with the county to allocate funds for sidewalks, curbs, and parks. Betsy Lyons offered to serve as a “shadow” support person, but a primary human representative is urgently needed. The committee meets roughly once a month on the second Thursday evening at the Navy Building at 2300 Wilson.
Historic Preservation Updates
Julie Mangis, who is co-historian for AHCA, reported that historic plaques are being ordered for qualifying homes in the Ashton Heights Historic District. The bronze plaques cost $250 each and display the year a house was built along with the neighborhood’s establishment date. The history committee is also working to update the organization’s website with more current historical data. Plans are underway to install commemorative stumbling stones in spring to honor those who were enslaved in the area.
Development
Jack Spilsbury, of the AHCA Development/Zoning Committee, discussed residential development projects near Clarendon Circle involving multi-story buildings and potential changes from hotels to apartments. The county has announced a major study regarding redevelopment in the Buckingham area, which involves balancing affordable housing and existing tree canopy.
Tree Canopy Concerns
Brooke Alexander, who leads AHCA Tree Canopy & Native Plants efforts, reported on the Tree Canopy Campaign, noting that Ashland Heights saw a 15% decrease in canopy over eight years despite reaching 36% coverage. The committee aims to reach a 40% tree canopy average through planting efforts like those seen in recent yard installations.
County Board Candidate Forum
Moderator and AHCA VP of Programs Dave Schutz introduced candidates for Arlington County Board: Audrey Clement (independent), David Sisson (proxy/independent), and Nicole Toulouse (representing Matt De Ferranti).
Audrey Clement is a 22-year resident of Westover and campaigned against “missing middle” upzoning and advocated for district-based representation instead of at-large members. She also commented on her positions against federal layoffs, up-zoning, older home “tear downs,” and other matters.
David Sisson is a Courthouse resident and emphasized increasing housing availability through more condo options while focusing density near metro stations. He also noted he would be the only renter on the county board.
Nicole Toulouse presented Matt De Ferranti’s background as an experienced attorney and current chair of the Arlington County Board facing challenges regarding accountability.
Candidates debated whether transitioning from at-large to district-based board members would improve local accountability or cause political dysfunction. David Sisson suggested reforms such as general primaries where everyone is on one ballot to reduce incumbent advantage via matching funds for small donations. Nicole Toulouse supported considering governance changes that could include a seven-person board with both at-large and district seats plus a permanent chair.
Residents raised concerns about sidewalk projects on Oakland Street that might lead to loss of mature trees and reduced parking spaces. Residents expressed frustration over lack of input in project planning compared to previous years. Finally, residents discussed the merits and challenges of closing all or parts of Jackson Street for Halloween festivities.
The meeting adjourned at 8:58
Submitted by Chris Armstrong, Secretary