[ 05/15/05 - START ]
Minutes of Concord Village Meeting
At the home of Howard Porter, May 15, 2005
Attending were:
Barbara Pizzala, Tom Hammer, Howard
Porter, Jody Hill, and Debbie Dehghan. We were very
pleased to be joined by visitor Teri Sosa.
After a great spread of potluck we began the meeting
with a reading.
The minutes of the April meeting were accepted. The
next meeting will be held on June 26, again at:
Howard’s home
308 Meredith St.
Kennett Square, PA
19348
TIME:
at 4:30 p.m. (4 p.m. for new people)
Thank you’s were given to several members.
Reports:
Treasurer:
Bbalance is about $10,000 (Equity and non
equity funds combined.) Reminders were made to a few
members to pay their dues (to Jody.)
Land Search Committee:
Howard reported on a parcel of
land that might be for sale just north of Kennett
Square. There was a discussion of the pro’s and con’s
of this land. Pro’s include the proximity to a park
and Kennett Square. Cons include the necessity of
demolition of existing mushroom houses.
Howard
committed to getting more information and putting some
numbers together. Two other parcels of land were
discussed. [at the end of the meeting Howard led a
trek to visit the first parcel above.]
Note: anyone
interested in other locations other than southern
Chester County or with knowledge of land that might
suit our criteria is urged to contact Howard at
muscadyne@aol.com or Barbara at 610 444 2382 or Dori
at doridesigns@yahoo.com
Marketing:
We now have Concord Village business cards.
All are encouraged to carry one or two to give out
whenever we meet someone who is interested in Concord
Village.
Community Building group:
A barbeque is being planned
for the summer. Jody and Debbie will plan this; any
others interested in helping should email or call
them.
Report from Equity Members (EMs):
All the EMs
committed to read the book "On Conflict andConsensus"
by C.T. Butler before our July meeting. It was
discussed that it would be desirable to all get
trained in how to use consensus. We will investigate
doing this at a later date.
Prior to the full business meeting, the EMs reached
consensus on 2 changes to our agreements/structure:
1) Dues will now be $10 per household per meeting
attended, beginning with the fourth meeting attended.
[The pay-ahead dues savings plan is still in
effect—-payment of 11 payments in advance will save
that household 1 payment.]
2) The Equity member fee, presently $2000, can be paid in
installments: $1000 upon joining, then $500 after 6
months, then $500 after another 6 months.
Discussion:
Wwe talked about the healthy tension in any
group between process orientation and action
orientation. Some members of CV are more interested in
spending time on tasks such as writing a business
plan, finding a developer, etc. Others lobby for
focusing more upfornt time on process, especially the
process by which decisions will be made. It was
generally acknowledged that both orientations are
important. The group needs to do both in order to move
forward on our project.
Commitments we made to each other were:
•Barbara--call Jack Wilbern and Ann Zabaldo
•Tom & Barbara--keep in touch with Vince and Carol
•Tom--get information from June Arnold re Oxford (PA)
land
•Jody--call Jann and Nancy
•Howard--get more information this week from Jim Thomford re land on Walnut Lane
•Howard--meet w/Gary Smith when he gets back from
vacation re a business plan
•EMs--read the new book on consensus by C.T. Butler by
the July meeting.
•Tom--write rough draft of a bio for Jody
•All other commitments are ongoing.
We ended with a reading.
Submitted by Barbara Pizzala and Tom Hammer
Please respond to Tom at thammer302@yahoo.com, if you
think immediate corrections to these minutes are
needed; otherwise, bring suggestions to the next
meeting.
If you are not yet a member of our Yahoo group (or
Altair's or Philly's), please help us by joining.
Contact Tom at the email address above.
Please check before posting to this list to be sure that you intend it to go to the entire group. Also try to be specific in your subject line.
[ 05/15/05 - END ]
[ 04/10/05 - START ]
Minutes of Concord Village Meeting
At the home of Howard Porter, April 10, 2005
Attending were:
Barbara Pizzala and Tom Hammer; Howard Porter; Dori, Carrie, and Zack Carson; Perry Martin; Jody Hill; and Debbie Dehghan, Joel Bartlett from Altair Cohousing, and Carol Severance and Vince Budnick with their younger son, Asa.
Jody facilitated, and Tom began the meeting with a reading.
The minutes of the March meeting were accepted. The next meeting will be held on May 15, again at Howard's
home: 308 Meredith St., Kennett Square, PA 19348, at 4:30 p.m. (4 p.m. for new people)
Thank you's:
Jody for facilitating, being treasurer, completing the taxes, and taking the March minutes; Barbara and Jann for promoting us at the Newark Co-op; Barbara for conducting consensus research and for working on the land search committee; Dori and Howard for land search; Tom, Carrie, and Carol for work on the presentation board; and Tom for planning the agenda and keeping the Yahoo mailings going, among other things. (Carol received an ovation for her outstanding work on the presentation board.)
Jody asked Barbara to talk briefly about the Newark Co-op presentation. Barbara said we had a good sign and good publicity, but not as many attendees as we'd hoped for. Afterwards Nancy Nobile and 3 others plus Tom met at a local coffee shop with Jann and Barbara and shared more information. Overall Barbara and Jann chatted with 5-6 interested people.
Reports:
Visioning and values statement: Tabled; to be presented soon.
Land Search Committee:
Had a very productive meeting where they decided to talk w/ other cohousing groups to see how they approached buying land. The committee is beginning to look at buying land in a more businesslike manner.
Afterwards Barbara had a long talk with Ann Zabaldo of Mid-Atlantic Cohousing (She has worked on Tacoma Village & Eastern Village). Ann was very excited about where we are (with so many equity members) and validated the group's effort so far. She encouraged us to focus on the land search component and reassured us that once we have land, people will join the community. Ann suggested that we talk with Jack Wilburn, an architect who also does development work.
She also suggested contacting Dan Tucker, a DC-area developer who has worked on co-housing projects in that area. Ann and Dan have partnered many times--he finds the land and takes much of the financial risk; she markets, finds the group, and helps the group work through the community-building process. Ann seemed interested in consulting with us. Perhaps if she worked with us, Don might be willing to also, especially since Howard is a developer and perhaps could do local work to cut down on Dan's having to travel frequently from DC to this area. Ann said we were very fortunate to have a developer as one of our Equity Members. If we worked with Ann and Don (or
others) we might form a legal partnership, where we'd each bring something to the table.
Treasurer's Report:
One expense for tax preparation ($200); we didn't owe taxes. Balance: $9,665, (most of which has been contributed by the Equity Members--in anticipation of an offer of land.) We have one account. Tom and Joel suggested that we track the equity funds separately from the other monies (since only the Equity Members can spend equity funds, but all members can take part in decisions on spending dues). Tom and Howard agreed to work with Jody on aligning the accounts and finding better interest return for the equity funds.
Tasks/Commitments:
Tom reviewed the commitments chart.
The Mid-Atlantic Cohousing Tour is scheduled for May 22. Anyone who would like to go should sign up immediately, since the bus usually fills up, and also contact Tom, who will coordinate car-pooling.
Marketing Poster: Tom reported that the other 2 cohousing groups in the area weren't interested in joining in a high-priced, professionally produced marketing poster. Then Joel showed us a lower-cost one that Altair Cohousing is proposing with all 3 cohousing groups mentioned. Those present took a brief look at the design and made suggestions. Joel will re-draft/design the poster and send it back for us to look at.
Equity Members Meeting: The equity members met just before this meeting to discuss the consensus process of decision-making. They discussed consensus and what the options of action are through the consensus model.
The equity
members will continue training in consensus.
Joel suggested working with C.T. Lawrence Butler (author of a well-known book on formal consensus) for a weekend to develop further confidence in using consensus.
Altair Cohousing Update:
This group spent 6 months on the vision, values, and consensus process. Joel shared a brochure the group put together. Altair has held solid with 4 equity members for the past year. The land search has slowed down their process in attracting members, but they currently have 3 developers, 2 realtors, and a civil engineer helping them with finding land. Joel believes you can pick the land much easier with 7-9 equity members.
Discussion Topics:
After their third meeting, newcomers are asked to express a preference for one of the working groups:
Social, Marketing, or Land Search.
Jody wondered if we need a social committee. Perry suggested that we take some time at each meeting to do community building. Ideas included having a Myers-Briggs personality profile session, which Barbara could lead; and practicing consensus. The group generally felt that one or two special events should be held during the year with periodic community building activities tacked onto meetings. Howard voiced preference for keeping the Halloween Social active. No formal action was taken, but the Social group will keep thinking about how best to build relationships and how many socials to have.
Dealing with Conflict:
Tom introduced the topic of conflict. [Experts who live in other cohousing groups tell us that conflict is inevitable, and that we can welcome conflict and learn from it, making each conflict into a positive experience.] Tom presented a handout on dealing with conflict, including using "I- statements." Then people divided up into pairs to practice giving "I statements" to each other as a positive way to present how we feel about someone else's actions.
Vince closed with a reading: "Using Our Gifts," found in Community and Growth by Jean Vanier.
NEW COMMITMENTS SUMMARY:
Carol will do the minutes and send to Tom.
Land search will continue to meet.
Barbara will give the vision/values statement to Tom to email to all.
Tom will order books on Formal Consensus plus a book on Community for Dori as a new Equity Member.
Tom will coordinate attendees to the Mid Atlantic Cohousing tour.
Howard and Tom will help Jody find an interest-bearing account.
Tom will help Jody set up the accounting of equity funds vs dues.
Other commitments on info sessions, brochures, etc.
are ongoing.
Submitted by Carol Severance and Tom Hammer If you think any changes to the minutes need to be made immediately, please respond to Tom at thammer302@yahoo.com, otherwise, bring suggestions to the next meeting.
If you are not yet a member of our Yahoo group, please help us simplify our email system by joining!!!
[ 04/10/05 - END ]
[ 03/06/05 - START ]
Minutes of Concord Village Meeting
At the home of Dori Carson March 6, 2005
Attending were:
Sara and Bob Cohen, Barbara Pizzala and Ton Hammer, Howard Porter, Dori and Jen Carson, Perry Martin, and Jody Hill. Carol Severance and Vince Budnick also joined us for their first meeting. In addition, there were six other children of the group who shared our fabulous potluck dinner.
Howard facilitated, and Barbara began the meeting with a reading.
The minutes of the January meeting were accepted. The next meeting will be held on April 10 at Tom and Barbara's home at 227 Meredith, Kennett Square, 19348, at 4:30 p.m.
Thank you's: Jody for calls, being treasurer, and working on socials; Barbara for values statement and land search; Sara for work on socials; Howard for land search; Carrie for work on the presentation board; Debbie for land search; and Tom for various things.
REPORTS:
As to the land search update, Howard reported that we fired our previously engaged realtor, and that we have now connected with Jim Thomforde of Prudential Fox Roach. It is felt that he understands our values.
Howard proposed that we revisit as a group our geographic choices and limitations, so that we may potentially be more focused. At present, the three towns that fit our general criteria are Kennett Square, West Chester, and Newark. The Ways Lane development proposal in the eastern part of Kennett still seems a promising site, as it involves 45 acres of potential new development. Howard pointed out that nine of every 10 land transactions that he hears about are not "on our radar screen" because of what we are seeking to create.
Tom reminded the group that we still need help in putting together our new presentation board and that we now have a deadline of the March 19 Newark coop gig. Tom and Carrie Carson and Howard spent part of an evening starting to design it, but much remains to be done. Barbara reports that she and Bob have been working on the vision statement and will present it at the next meeting. Tom challenged group members to consider joining the "5 minutes a day" group to make more of a commitment to the group to complete the many group tasks. Jody joined as a new member of this group.
Jody as treasurer reported a balance of $7535 in our account including equity and dues. However, many group members are behind on payment of dues and are strongly encouraged to speak with Jody about getting up to date. We have no outstanding accounts. Jody will be meting with the tax accountant next week.
Sara reported on the upcoming social at the Cohen's home on Sunday March 20. This get- together is designed to have some fun, and create some crafts which will be used to decorate our future common house and common spaces. These crafts include decorating rocks and sewing together a patchwork of fabric squares with the common theme of "hands." This afternoon will also include a potluck, of course!
More details will go out over the internet. Vince offered that we designate the day our "Rockin' Quiltin' Bee."
The Mid Atlantic Cohousing Tour date should be announced very soon as it is generally held in May.
It is a fabulous way to get the flavor of several very diverse communities in the Washington DC area as part of a very well-organized tour.
Tom polled the group concerning the type of marketing poster we would like to see and commit funds to create. The choices were a very glossy and professional-looking theater-type poster and a simply-created 8 by 11 reproducible sheet. The group overwhelmingly selected the glossier version.
Although it will cost much more, the group agreed that it would be worth the investment to produce real results. Tom will continue to coordinate with Altair and Empty Nest Cohousing, the other two area groups.
Howard and Tom again spelled out the equity membership offer for those wanting to join us by March 12th
Exciting announcement: Dori will be joining as an equity member very soon. A big welcome!!
DISCUSSION:
Barbara led a brainstorming session about what we area doing well and what behaviors/systems do we need to improve in out group in order to get built more quickly. She set up columns of "Sorrys" and "Prouds."
Prouds included:
vision work
core group that meets regularly
share the work
web presence
well run meetings
5 equity members
visibility in the newspaper
"special group" of solid great people
social side that helps build community
we have fun!
Sorrys included:
lacking decision on location
lack of professional business plan
haven't spread the vision to connect with the right audience not enough people to do all the work not enough keeping our promises to each other one member not feeling heard sometimes self-imposed location restrictions
COMMITMENTS:
Carol agreed to work on finishing the presentation board by March 19.
Perry knows a graphic designer she will try to contact about our poster ideas.
Others agreed to renew their previous commitments:
Jody and Sara: call frequent flyers by about Wednesday before big events:
Dorie and Lanie: get our contacts list up to date;
Howard: try to schedule London Grove Meeting info session; Jody and Sara: finish planning next Social;
Jody: find out about West Chester events;
Tom: keep trying to schedule "special dinners."
Barbara, Bob, and Debbie: finish vision statement; Tom and Nancy: contact U. of DE regarding land.
The meeting closed without a reading, but with much good cheer.
Submitted by Jody Hill and Tom Hammer
[ 03/06/05 - END ]
[ 01/30/05 - START ]
Minutes of Concord Village
January 30, 2005
Location: Howard Porter's home.
Attending:
Bob and Sara Cohen, Jody Hill, Dori and Carrie Carson, Howard Porter, Barbara Pizzala, and Tom Hammer
Dori facilitated. We opened with a reading and introductions.
Thank you's were given to Jody, Barbara, Sara, Bob, Perry, Tia, Larry, Howard, Dori, Tom, and Debbie.
Minutes of the previous meeting were accepted.
The next meeting will be:
Date:
Sunday, March 6
Location:
Carsons' home in Kennett Square
Time:
4:30 p.m.
RSVP, yeses only, to Dori at doridesigns@yahoo.com and to Tom at thammer302@yahoo.com.
SPECIAL REMINDER:
The special offer to double your money upon joining as an equity member expires on March 12. Don't miss this opportunityit may not be
offered ever again. If you have questions or need an
extension or special arrangements, including a payment plan, be sure to contact one of the equity members (Debbie, Tom, Howard, Barbara, or Jody. as soon as possible. Yahoo group members can read a complete explanation in the Files section of our Yahoo group web site.
REPORTS: Jody: we have about $7900 in our account with some bills outstanding. Jody has identified someone who can do our taxes, and she now has the account on a spreadsheet. Jody asked that members who owe dues contact her (Jodyhill00@aol.com)
Community building: Sara described several ideas for creating something to eventually be used by our community after we move in. She and Bob will host this event and also volunteered to store the items we create until their installation during/after construction. The proposed date for this creative social is March 20; watch for email soon on this topic.
Land search: Howard reported that the realtor who had agreed to talk with us did not show up. He will keep trying. The bid for the land in West Grove submitted by the Alliance for Better Housing was not accepted.
It went for a much higher price than expected.
Vision/values statement: Bob and Barbara have each drafted a values statement that pulls together the values agreed upon by the group at our workshop in November. At one of our meetings soon we will share this statement with the group for final approval.
Newark Coop Info session has been scheduled for March
19 at 1 p.m.
DISCUSSION: Tom and Howard led a discussion about ways we could speed up the pace of getting through construction. Ideas ranged from how to get individuals to contribute more time ("five minutes a day" is one
example) to how we use meeting time to finding a professional developer to take Concord Village on.
Many present said that if we had land or good prospects for a site, people would step up their commitment and activity and lead to more members more quickly. We discussed the chicken and egg problem contained in that conceptnot having land makes recruiting more difficult; fewer members makes us less financially strong to make an offer on land.
Strong opinion was expressed that we narrow the geographic range of our search for land and make Kennett Square the focus. If we accept this concept, we will have to revisit our literature and our "sound bites."
Marketing the entire group discussed projects. Sara committed to suggest changes in our brochure before Laura Parker makes a new batch. Tom showed off our new professional display board, which we purchased for about $375. Carrie, Jody, and Tom will work together on Feb. 5 on the photos and text for the board (note:
started but not completed on Feb. 5.)
Tom and Dori are researching posters to advertise the
3 forming cohousing groups in our region.
We need more pictures and bios of members on our website.
Howard mentioned his connections at the Kennett paper and said that when we have a newsworthy event, we can try to get an article written.
Commitments:
Tom, Jody, and Carrie to work on board on Feb. 5 Dori will work on updating the contacts database.
Jody to submit her bio by March 1, or Howard will do one for her (!) Tom and Dori to research sources for a poster.
Tom will contact Altair and Sally's group re poster cooperation.
Sara to suggest revisions in our brochure.
Land search, marketing, and community building groups to continue their work.
We closed with a reading.
Any corrections to these minutes that need to be made immediately send to Tom at thammer302@yahoo.com.
Otherwise, corrections can be made at the next meeting.
Submitted by Barbara Pizzala and Tom Hammer
[ 01/30/05 - END ]
Minutes of the December 5, 2004 meeting of Concord Village at the home of Perry Martin.
Attending were:
Sara & Bob Cohen, Tom Hammer, Barbara Pizzala, Howard Porter, Jody Hill, Dori and Carrie Carson, Tia Zlotnikoff, Roger Marston and Perry Martin.
A delicious potluck was finished with a decorated cake celebrating the second birthday of the Concord Village community.
Jodi facilitated the meeting. We started with a reading by Perry. The minutes of the October meeting were accepted. It was decided to hold the next meeting on January 23 at Howard Porter’s home in Kennett Square. The February meeting will be held at Dori's and Carrie’s home near Kennett Square. Barbara reported on the Vision & Values workshop. A statement from the workshop is being worked on by Bob and Barbara; when it is completed, it will be presented to the group.Howard reported for the Land Search Committee. Howard has contacted the owner of the Kennett Square property, but nothing has changed. The West Grove land is now officially available, and Howard’s group, the Alliance for Better Housing, is interested purchasing it. That land is already subdivided into lots for 44 townhomes in a traditional (non-cohousing) design created by the town of West Grove. Some would be designated “affordable” and be substantially subsidized by a grant if the Alliance were to obtain this land and develop it. The Equity Members are still exploring the idea of partnering with the Alliance and proposing that all or most of these houses be our community, with one or two homes purchased by the group for use as the common house.
Pluses include:
excellent school district; within a small town, subdivision already accomplished.
Minuses include:
Non-cohousing design with no possibility of change, lack of a thriving town center, high minimum bid for the landAn information session will be held at the Newark Co-op on Saturday, January 22 at 1 pm. This has proved to be a good source of interested inquirers in the past. Jodi reported a balance of $8023 (equity and dues combined.)We split up into separate meetings of the three groups—Community Building/Social, Marketing, and Land Search, after which each made a report.COMMITMENTS AND IDEAS:
Land search (Howard, Barbara, Dori and Perry): Howard, Barbara, and Dori will meet with a land search specialist from Beiler-Campbell to see if he can offer us help.
.
Marketing (Bob,Tom, and Tia): A design contest is being considered to create a professional board design. A professional board that folds into a carrying case would cost about $400. Dori knows a teacher who teaches design and will get that name to us. Tia will post Concord Village on Meet-up and other Internet bulletin boards. Howard will put brochures at the Media co-op. Tom will communicate with Altair about creating a professional poster; we estimate we would need about $500 for that.
Community Building (Jody, Debbie, and Sara): A social event will be held on New Year's Day from 3 - 8 pm at Sara and Bob's home. (see emails archived about this event.)In February there are plans to create works of art that we could use in our common house.This group will take on the task of calling people who have not come to meetings for awhile.The meeting closed with a reading by Tom.
Submitted by Perry Martin and Tom Hammer
[ 12/05/04 - END ]
[
12/05/04 - START ]
Minutes of the
December 5, 2004 meeting of Concord Village at the home
of Perry Martin.
Attending were:
Sara & Bob Cohen, Tom Hammer, Barbara Pizzala, Howard
Porter, Jody Hill, Dori and Carrie Carson, Tia Zlotnikoff,
Roger Marston and Perry Martin.
A delicious potluck was finished with a decorated cake
celebrating the second birthday of the Concord Village
community.
Jodi facilitated the meeting. We started with a reading
by Perry.
The minutes of the October meeting were accepted. It
was decided to hold the next meeting on January 23 at
Howard Porter’s home in Kennett Square. The February
meeting will be held at Dori's and Carrie’s home
near Kennett Square.
Barbara reported on the Vision & Values workshop.
A statement from the workshop is being worked on by
Bob and Barbara; when it is completed, it will be presented
to the group.
Howard reported for the Land Search Committee. Howard
has contacted the owner of the Kennett Square property,
but nothing has changed. The West Grove land is now
officially available, and Howard’s group, the
Alliance for Better Housing, is interested purchasing
it. That land is already subdivided into lots for 44
townhomes in a traditional (non-cohousing) design created
by the town of West Grove. Some would be designated
“affordable” and be substantially subsidized
by a grant if the Alliance were to obtain this land
and develop it. The Equity Members are still exploring
the idea of partnering with the Alliance and proposing
that all or most of these houses be our community, with
one or two homes purchased by the group for use as the
common house.
Pluses include:
excellent school district; within a small town,
subdivision already accomplished.
Minuses include:
Non-cohousing design with no possibility of change,
lack of a thriving town center, high minimum bid for
the land
An information session will be held at
the Newark Co-op on Saturday, January 22 at 1 pm.
This has proved to be a good source of interested inquirers
in the past.
Jodi reported a balance of $8023 (equity and dues combined.)
We split up into separate meetings of the three groups—Community
Building/Social, Marketing, and Land Search, after which
each made a report.
COMMITMENTS AND IDEAS:
Land search (Howard, Barbara, Dori
and Perry): Howard, Barbara, and Dori will meet with
a land search specialist from Beiler-Campbell to see
if he can offer us help.
.
Marketing (Bob,Tom, and Tia): A design
contest is being considered to create a professional
board design. A professional board that folds into a
carrying case would cost about $400. Dori knows a teacher
who teaches design and will get that name to us. Tia
will post Concord Village on Meet-up and other Internet
bulletin boards. Howard will put brochures at the Media
co-op. Tom will communicate with Altair about creating
a professional poster; we estimate we would need about
$500 for that.
Community Building (Jody, Debbie, and
Sara): A social event will be held on New Year's Day
from 3 - 8 pm at Sara and Bob's home. (see emails archived
about this event.)
In February there are plans to create works of art
that we could use in our common house.
This group will take on the task of calling people
who have not come to meetings for awhile.
The meeting closed with a reading by Tom.
Submitted by Perry Martin and Tom Hammer
[
12/05/04 - END ]
[
10/17/04 - START ]
Minutes of Concord
Village Meeting
October 17, 2004
At Howard Porter’s home in Kennett Square.
PRESENT: Sara Cohen, Howard Porter, Debbie Dehghan,
Barbara Pizzala, Tom Hammer, Jody Hill, Rafik Eid, Dori
Carson, Perry Martin, Nancy Nobile, Bob Cohen, and special
welcomes were given to John McCormack, returning after
a year, and Paul Maurer, who came all the way from Michigan.
FACILITATOR: Howard Porter
NEXT MEETING: December 5 at Perry Martin’s home
at 1662 Glenside Rd in West Chester. 4 pm for new people,
4:30 for potluck, 5:30 to 7:30 for business meeting.
Concord Village will be celebrating our second birthday
at this meeting!!!
MINUTES of the last meeting were approved.
THANKS: Barbara, Jody, Nancy, Tom,
Jann, Bob, Howard, and Debbie for helping at Newark
Day, plus Debbie for the minutes; Tom, Jody and Howard
for land work; and Larry for our lovely new web site.
If we have missed anyone, please let us know.
REPORTS:
Several members of our group, including new member Tia,
were treated to the “Concord Village Long Shot
Land Trek” today led by Howard Porter, AKA Slim
Pickens. We carpooled to see 10 potential land sites
in the Kennett Square area, varying from the Plankinton
site on which we had bid previously to Penn Manor, a
new development of 140 townhomes just breaking ground.
Others included sites zoned commercial and sites with
large structures that would need to be torn down. All
agreed on the seemingly ideal nature of the Plankinton
site, and Perry suggested that we put very positive
energy into what we like, as “once a decision
is made, providence moves, too.” One question
about the tour was: why did we see so many sites that
did not seem likely to work for us. An answer to this
question is that Tom thought it would be especially
valuable for people to see these sites to get an idea
about the land search process and how imaginative we
may need to be in order to find suitable land.
Other Land search updates: Tom again described an urban
site in West Chester that has great potential, but is
in a rather troubled neighborhood. The West Grove site
remains a possibility, and a tour was proposed with
Rafik, Sara, Nancy, and Dori interested in attending.
The Newark Co-op information session has been postponed
because of their lack of a newsletter this quarter.
It will be rescheduled for January.
Barbara announced that the Visioning and Values workshop
will take place November 6 with Michael Burchel as facilitator.
This workshop is an important step in our community
building process and will help to guide decisions useful
for marketing. All equity members will attend, and any
others interested are encouraged to do so. Dori, Perry,
Nancy, and Bob expressed intent to attend. Location
will be at Howard Porter’s, from 10 a.m. to 3
p.m, 308 Meredith St., Kennett Square, PA 19348
Treasurer’s Report: Jody announced
that we have a balance of $8017 in our account with
no outstanding payables. Please remember that everyone
who has attended three meetings is asked to pay dues
of $20 per month. You can help make Jody’s job
easier by paying proactively; also, if you pay for a
year in advance, you only have to pay for 11 months.
Tom briefly reminded us of the Special Offer for those
who become Equity Members during the next 5 months.
See last month’s minutes for details.
ACTION ITEMS:
A decision was made to explore the possibility
that the owners of the Plankinton property will again
consider a bid for sale.
We divided ourselves into three task circles:
A) Land Search:
Perry, Howard, Dori, and Barbara
B) Marketing:
Bob, Nancy, and Tom
C) Community Building (previously
known as Social):
Sara, Jody, and Debbie
Tom asked for a show of hands of how many wish that
we could develop and build Concord Village more quickly.
The response was almost unanimously “yes.”
The key way we propose to speed our process is to get
work done in our task circles between meetings.
Each task circle brainstormed for 30 minutes to develop
goals for the next meeting. They were as follows:
Land Search: to reconnect with the
owners of the Plankinton property, to seek out the services
of a realtor in West Chester
Marketing: to commit some of our monetary
resources to the task, to give a more personal touch
to the outreach
Community to suggest several ideas
for social gatherings and dates, to consider creating
objects/items to be used in our new community.
Each group was asked to make significant progress through
phone calls or meeting in person before our December
meeting.
Tom did a reading by Anne Zabaldo on the value of work
in building the relationships necessary for a successful
community.. He reminded all of us that it is also important
“just to show up.”
If you have an important correction to these minutes
that should be made immediately, please send it to Tom
at thammer302@yahoo.com.
Otherwise, corrections can be made at the next meeting.
Submitted by Jody Hill and Tom Hammer
[
10/17/04 - END ]
[
9/12/04 - START ]
Minutes of 9/12/04
Meeting at Sara and Bob Cohen's home: OPENING:
Tom gave reading; each person introduced self
Minutes of last meeting accepted.
OCTOBER's MEETING:
10/17/04 at Howard's house.
Thanks were extended to several people
LAND SEARCH REPORTS:
(1) West Grove 40 unit subdivision of townhouses already
approved (later updated to 44 units) by the Borough
of West Grove. Alliance for Better Housing will be bidding
on land; we might join them if we wish, and all or part
could be cohousing. Howard answered questions.
(2) U of D land:
Nancy, Jann, and Tom will pursue this further at a later
date.
(3) Newark, DE land:
Barbara will continue to investigate Other Commitments:
Larry and Sara asked to tour West Grove site; Howard
agreed to lead tour. Others reported on their progress.
VISIONING
WORKSHOP:
Barbara reported that dates will be sent out.
Fall Mid-Atlantic Cohousing tour Debbie reported on
positive impressions of last year's tour.
TREASURER's
REPORT:
Jody reported $8,035.87 from Equity Members and dues,
no outstanding payables.
SOLAR
TOUR:
Tom reported we are a co-sponsor; there are 5-6 sites
on the tour
INFORMATION
SESSION:
Barbara reported Newark co-op is upcoming on 9/25.
SPECIAL
ANNOUNCEMENT:
Tom reported on the LIMITED TIME (6 months
from this meeting date) DOUBLE YOUR MONEY OFFER FOR
EQUITY MEMBERSHIP by current Equity Members
to those who become (or are) Equity Members of Concord
Village to double your money at settlement on a unit
of ours. He distributed a copy of the offer to those
present, and it has also gone out by email. It requires
a $2,000 investment (potentially can be spread out over
time by action of the Equity Members.)
From
Tom:
This is a very special opportunity. If you are sure
you want to become an Equity Member but do not have
the cash, it would be worth taking out a loan to take
this offer, since you would immediately double your
money.
ACTION
ITEMS:
Newark Community Day 9/19 on the U of D green. Several
people signed up for time slots to (wo)man the booth:
Tom, Jann, Howard, Barbara, Bob, Larry, Debbie, Dorie
The
following was prefaced by a brief review for new people
on consensus: agree, pass, and block were explained.
DECISION:
The group reached consensus on the following:
After attendance at three meetings, all people will
be asked to express a preference for one of our ongoing
Groups. Presently these are:
a) Land Search
b) Marketing, and
c) Strengthening Relationships (formerly Social).
We
ended with a reading by Jodi
Minutes by Debbie Dehghan and Tom Hammer
[ 9/12/04 - END ]
[
08/01/04 - START ]
Concord Village
Co-Housing Meeting Minutes
Sunday, August 1, 2004
We met at Nancy Nobile's home and thoroughly enjoyed her
hospitality and espresso! Thank you, Nancy!
Present: Bob Cohen, Sara Cohen, Tom Hammer, Jody Hill,
Jann Lightcap, Lanie Carlson-Lim, Larry Lim, Nancy Nobile,
Barbara Pizzala, Stuart Ungar
Jody facilitated and opened with a reading. Jody won our
newest award: Marathoner, as person who traveled the farthest
to the meeting.
We welcomed Bob and Sara Cohen as visitors. They have
agreed to host the next co-housing meeting at their home
near Coatesville on September 12. Thanks, Sara and Bob.
Details will follow.
Minutes of June 27, 2004 were approved as sent out.
; Great thanks went out to: Jody, Howard, Tom, Barbara,
Nancy, Jann, Larry, Lanie for land searches, hosting information
sessions, and great time commitments to the group.
Reports:
Tom's News It was noted by Barbara that Tom was requested
to write a letter to the editor of Co-housing Magazine
via Diana Christiansen, who authored the book Creating
a Life Together: Practical Tools to Grow Ecovillages and
Intentional Communities
Tom was also invited by Diana (who loved what he had to
say about co-housing) to write a review of her book. We'll
have to stay tuned to find out if Tom accepts.
; Goodbye and Good Luck! We are so very sad to see Laura
and Stuart Ungar and their children leave the group. They
are moving to Louisville, Kentucky. Their new email address
is: teamungar@yahoo.com We wish them well in their new
home and community.
Solar House Tour: Stuart gave his final report about the
Solar House Tour and has asked for volunteers to see the
project to fruition. Stuart and Carolyn have laid amazing
groundwork for an incredible solar house tour with three
locations. The tour has been scheduled for Saturday, 10/02/04
(the national solar awareness date). This local event
would besponsored by Concord Village and possibly another
group and would be an outstanding marketing tool for us
as well as a huge service to the community. It would almost
certainly become an annual event. A planning meeting has
been scheduled for 8/26/04 to discuss getting additional
groups involved like Energy Solutions and Habitat for
Humanity. This would increase awareness marketing opportunities
not only for solar energy, but also for the Concord Village
group. Thank you to Stuart and Carolyn for their support
of this project.
Land Search Updates: Barbara, Tom and Jann went to see
property near Conowingo, Maryland. Their opinion was that
the land did not meet our criteria of being near a town
or community. They also visited Havre de Grace, a very
nice small town on water, which seems to be undiscovered
and which could have co-housing potential. It needs someone
to "champion" it. Lanie and Larry reported on several
parcels; most seem not to be zoned for clustered housing,
but they could be followed up on. Tom recommended that
people keep looking for land/buildings in your favorite
area, and we must continue to investigate leads. One key
is not to wait for something to go up for sale but to
look for possibilities.
; Past Commitments: Please let the group know if you need
help with your commitments to Concord Village. Some unfinished
or of unknown status are:
Tour site events;West Grove;Howard and Tom,
Find out West Chester events;Jody
New web site;Larry
Pike Creek UU Church Info session;Debbie
Info session London Grove Friends;Howard
Contact person re land in Centerville, DE;Tom, Marian,
Nancy
Upcoming Events
o Visioning Workshop: Barbara will be scheduling this
workshop for late October or early November. All of the
equity members and anyone else who wants to shape the
official vision of our community are requested to attend;
your voice is critical to the development of our community.
o Fall Mid-Atlantic Co-housing Tour: Nancy and Jody encouraged
new members to attend the MAC tour on 10/02/04. It is
a great way to meet people, see 7 very different cohousing
communities, and see what co-housing is all about. Go
to http://www.proximitycohousing.com/MAC/Fall04Tour.htm
for more information and to sign up. Seats are limited,
and this tour always sells out.
o Newark Community Days Volunteers Needed: Sunday 9/19/04
from 10am until 5pm volunteers are needed to host the
information table. Let Nancy Noble know if you can help
out.
o Philadelphia Folk Festival: 8/28 is the date for the
Phili Folk Festival. If you want to join us, let Jody
or Hugh know, who are organizing this. For more information
go to: http://www.folkfest.org/PFF.php
Jody and Hugh will be emailing the group soon with details.
o Newark Food Co-op Information Session: An information
session is scheduled at the Newark Food Co-op on Saturday,
9/25.
Treasurer's Report: Jody reported that there was $9,285
in our account.
From Tom: (Most of this has been committed by the Equity
Members, was intended for our land purchase which did
not happen and is Equity Member funds, which are separate
from general dues.) About $1500 of this is owed in lawyer’s
bills from Equity funds. A small amount of this has been
contributed by the entire group in the form of dues, much
of which has already been spent on photocopying, posters,
brochures, postage, supplies, books, videos, etc. Jody,
as treasurer, will separate out the two funds for us so
we can better understand what we have. Tom reminded people
to keep up with their monthly payments to the group. If
you pay a year’s dues in advance, you can get
a one month discount. Dues are $20 per month after your
3rd meeting, (unless you officially join as an Inquirer,
and then you can pay only $10 a month for up to 6 months.
See the Membership Levels for details.) Checks are made
out to DCH and sent to Jody. Contact her at jodyhill00@aol.com.
Please make Jody’s life easier by being proactive
with your dues and paying on time or in advance without
her having to ask you.
Discusssion and Action:
Land: much discussion was held about new land sites that
Tom summarized. We have over 10 sites that we are looking
into. They will not be listed in the minutes because of
sensitivity over possible competitive purchases.
Solar Tour: a request was made to the group for someone
to take over for Stuart (and Carolyn), both of whom have
to bow out because of life changes. No one from the group
came forward. (Update: Tom told Carolyn recently by email
he will help with this effort and to try to find more
help from in and outside of our group.)
New commitments to the group:
Newark Day Booth (9/19): Tom, Nancy, Jody, Bob, Jann.
More folks are needed for this! If weather is good, 20,000
people may attend.
Newark Co-op Info session (9/25): Barbara, Lanie (?),
Bob
Land search: Site near Newark: Nancy
Second site near Newark: Barbara
Talk with university about their land: Tom, Jann, Nancy
West Chester sites: Jody and Nancy
Let us set a goal of 100% completion of all our commitments
by next time!
Tom ended with a reading.
In community,
Jann Lightcap and Tom Hammer
[ 08/01/04 - END ]
Minutes Concord Village June 27, 2004
At Tom and Barbara's house in Hockessin
PRESENT: Marian Delp, Hugh Brenner, Nancy Nobile, Jody
Hill, Tom Hammer, Barbara Pizzala. Many people were mentioned
who were out of town or ill.
FACILITATOR: Tom, who did a reading and led an exercise
in getting to know each other better.
NEXT MEETING: Aug. 1 at Nancy Nobile’s home
in Newark, DE unless we have a large group coming, in
which case we will change locations. 1214 Christina Mill
Dr., Newark, DE 19711. 4 p.m. for new people, 4:30 (promptly)
for potluck, 5:30-7:30 for business meeting
MINUTES of last meeting were approved.
THANKS: Jody and Howard for info session at Concord Pike
Unitarian, Jody for being treasurer, Laura Parker for
more brochures and personal delivery, Tom, Barbara, Nancy,
Jann, Lanie, and Larry for helping at Newark Night booth.
If we missed anyone, please let us know.
CELEBRATION: Hugh tells us he is sending in his Associate
Membership!! Much joy was expressed. Hugh will be our
first Associate.
REPORTS:
Nancy said Newark Nite went very well and said many people
expressed interest.
Info session: Jody reported that there were 15 to 20 people
at their info session and 5 people filled out information
sheets and asked to be on our email list.
Visit to Pleasant Valley Cohousing (CA): Barbara and Tom
enjoyed the visit and were particularly impressed by the
beauty of the pressed bamboo floors. Things they did not
want in our community were also discussed. They were very
warmly received by a resident, who took them on a tour
with no notice.
The Equity Members previously reached consensus on payments
to a web host of $9.95 per month + $9.95 start-up fee.
Accountability: previous commitments were discussed. Besides
those mentioned above, Howard and Tom have not yet arranged
tours of the West Grove site. Debbie has not yet called
Marian. Lanie has a full start on the contacts data base.
Larry and Tom have continued discussion on the new web
site. We don’t know if Howard has done an info
packet on West Grove yet or if he has contacted the London
Grove Friends Meeting re an info session. Debbie is still
working on setting up arrangements for an info session
at the Pike Creek Unitarian Church. Anyone needing help
with their task is urged to let us know.
Brochures: we added to and revised the list of locations
where we resupply brochures. Anyone who is placing and
resupplying brochures who has not let us know or who would
like to and needs brochures, please contact Tom.
Values/vision Workshop: Since this event was postponed
for a second time, Barbara led a discussion on the worth
of such a workshop, and the group discussed whether or
not anything was in the way of having this event. We decided
that it is indeed an important step in the development
of our community and that all Associate and Equity Members
should be there if at all possible. In addition, it would
be ideal to include others who have expressed strong interest
in us and who have attended meetings on a fairly regular
basis. We are now looking at September or early October.
Barbara is organizing.
Land: There is no news on the Borough of West Grove asking
for bids yet. Tom asked the group if they wanted to continue
to look for sites in DE and southern PA, and the group
agreed that it was important not to put all our hopes
on one site. Nancy volunteered to ask at the U of DE to
see who might be a good contact there regarding UD land.
Tom will contact an acquaintance who recently did an extensive
search for land near Newark, DE. Hugh agreed to look in
the West Chester area, and Marian will contact someone
she knows at the News Journal who is a real estate expert.
Social: On Saturday, August 28, we will host a CV "field
trip" to the Philadelphia Folk Festival. This is wonderful,
all-day event for all ages, alcohol and smoke free, with
a wide variety of music in a beautiful location. Overnight
camping is available. We will try to carpool. The rain
date is August 29. Jody and Hugh will organize.
Recruiting: Tom reminded the group of the importance of
personal contacts as the most effective way of recruiting
(Tom's script written by Howard.)
Meetings: We clarified among ourselves that we are starting
earlier, at 4:30, in order to finish by 7:30, not to take
more time for dinner. Coming promptly by 4:30 is very
important to the group’s ending on time.
Marketing budget: we reached consensus on allocating a
beginning budget of $300 to the Marketing Group, which
can be spent at the discretion of the group.
NEW COMMITMENTS:
As mentioned above:
Nancy contact UD
Tom contact associate re land near Newark
Hugh look in W. Chester area
Marian contact associate at News Journal paper
Hugh and Jody organize Social
Other new commitments:
Barbara will set up another info session at the Newark
Natural Foods Co-op and will find out about the Kennett
Mushroom Festival.
Tom, Barbara, and Nancy will be on the team for Newark
Community Day booth. Others interested in this fun event
should let Tom know of your interest.
Jody will find out what West Chester events are coming
up where we might have a booth and will produce a treasurer’s
report for the next meeting.
Tom, Marian, and Nancy will look into land site in Centerville,
DE
Tom concluded with a reading of a true story of a community.
Minutes by Barbara and Tom. Any corrections that need
to be made immediately should be sent to Tom. Otherwise,
bring them to the next meeting.
Minutes of Concord Village Monthly Meeting 5/23/04 at
Tom and Barbara’s home
Facilitated by Barbara
In community: Barbara Pizzala, Debbie Dehghan, Marian
Delp, Nancy Nobile, Howard Porter, Tom Hammer, Larry Lim,
Jann Lightcap
Getting to know each other better—an outstanding
exercise, led by Barbara
Next Meeting
Sunday, June 27, starting promptly at 4:30. The location
will be determined. If you can host the next meeting,
please let us know as soon as possible.
Minutes of last meeting were approved.
Appreciations
Howard, Stuart, Sharon, Jody, Barbara, Nancy, Lani and
Tom were all given thanks and warm appreciation for the
work that they have contributed to the development and
support of Concord Village. Thank you! If we have missed
anyone, please let us know.
D.C. Co-housing Tour Report
Nancy reported that the tour was really great, not only
because she was able to see co-housing communities in
action, but also because of the bonding experience during
the trip to and from the D.C. area. She and others at
the meeting highly recommend that our community members
go on a co-housing tour. Nancy also said that each village
that they visited had a different feel of community. All
were very beautiful and nice, but that community took
on a different face at each location, due to location
of houses, and the location of the commonplaces.
Land Development
Howard reported that Concord Village is looking at property
in West Grove, PA. The parcel is 6 acres that is already
subdivided for 40 homes. The request for proposals will
go out in about 30-60 days, at which time equity members
of Concord Village (officially, Howard’s organization,
the Alliance for Better Housing) will make a sealed bid.
It was mentioned that the architect and civil engineer
should be brought in to view the plans in order to guide
the group with regard to land usage and potential home
sites and conversion to more of a cohousing design. The
number of homes that Concord Village will assume will
need to be determined. This land would be purchased by
the Alliance. The listing price for homes in this development
will be approximately $165,000 to $200,000, as best we
can tell at this point. Howard reported that there is
a good chance there will be grant money available for
qualified families and low interest mortgages (families
whose income is 80% or less of the median income for Chester
County, about $55,000 for a family of 4). Howard said
it is extremely important for our group that we have as
many official members, of any type, as possible, for us
to be taken seriously as a co-bidder with the Alliance.
Please remember that if you want to influence this decision
and process, you can do so only as either an Inquirer,
Associate, or Equity Member (Equity Members have the final
say under our rules, since it involves equity funds and
land. Contact Tom or Barbara about membership.)
Marketing Workshop
Howard, Tom, Stuart, and Nancy attended along with several
Altair members. Tom said that the Marketing workshop provided
some good tips. The primary focus for marketing is to
use the web site as effectively as possible. Nancy and
Stu appreciated especially meeting some Altair members.
Visioning Workshop
Barbara is organizing the Visioning Workshop, which will
center on Concord Village’s vision statement
and what is important to the group. This is an extremely
important part of the community’s development,
and members are encouraged to attend. This is the primary
way we will decide what our core values really are and
therefore how we will present ourselves to others. (The
date is now definitely July 10, from 10 until 3.) Michael
Burchell has generously volunteered to give us his professional
facilitation skills. If you are interested in this event
and have not yet contacted us about it, please email Tom
at thammer302@yahoo.com
Accountability
Tom—ads in national magazines, in conjunction
with national coho organization. Ongoing
Brochures database: started by email, filled in at tonight’s
meeting.
Debbie—schedule info session at UU Church in
Pike Creek. Not done
Barbara—info session at Concord Pike UU Church:
scheduled for 6/13
Newark Night: registered for booth. Organizing volunteers
(6/6)
Info session at Sandy Hollow: reconsidered and not doing.
Tom and Carolyn—info session at Newark UU Church—2
emails; church wants to do it in fall.
Howard—call new people: not done.
Info session at London Grove Friends Meeting: contacts
ongoing
Phil Ochs Turtledove Concert brochures: done
Lanie—contacts data base: 1st draft finished.
Tom and Larry—work on web site: old web site
up again by Tom; new one started by Larry and Tom.
Jody—coordinate D.C. area cohousing tour: done.
Treasurer: ongoing
Sharon and Stu—coordinate solar house tour:
?? (not present)
Many, many thanks to all who made and completed commitments!!
New commitments:
Newark Nite help with booth—Tom, Barbara, Debbie,
Lanie, Larry, Jann (6/6)
"Tour the site" events planned—Howard and Tom,
by 6/27
Get info packet about West Grove—Howard
Focus on conversion to membership—Barbara will
call 3 people by 6/11
Debbie will call one person by 6/27
Minutes by Jann Lightcap and Tom Hammer
If you have corrections that are important need to be
made immediately, email Tom. Otherwise, bring any corrections
to the next meeting.
Minutes of April 18, 2004 at Laura and Stuart Ungar’s
home
Present: Laura Ungar, Stuart Ungar, Perry Martin, Barbara
Pizzala, Larry Lim, Carolyn White, Debbie Dehghan, Jann
Lightcap, Tom Hammer, Howard Porter, Jody Hill and Kids
Reading by Tom on the role of shared work in building
community.
Trying to find Saturday meetings that will work and alternate
with Sunday to include more people.
NEXT MEETING: Sunday, May 23, 2004 at Tom and Barbara’s
home in Hockessin, DE
THANK YOUS to Howard, Laura, Stuart, Laura P., Jody, Barbara,
Lanie, Larry, Tom, Hugh
ACCOUNTABILITY
• The sound bite is done --Jody and Stuart
• Still working on getting ads in national magazines
in conjunction with other co-housing groups--Tom
• Still working on scheduling info sessions
at Concord Pike (Barbara) and Mill creek UU (Debbie)
• Data Base framework is done, need to key in
info—Debbie and Lanie
• Website – Tom has it partially fixed
for moment. Larry will look at it and see what else needs
to be done
SOLAR HOUSE TOUR – There’s a lot to
do and needs to be delayed. Stuart NEEDS HELP. There are
sites lined up, but needs help with marketing, info sheets,
maps
Carolyn will help
LAND – Even though turned down for Kennett Square
Property, Howard believes it is still not out of the question.
Realize we need search criteria and then can start a full
blown land search. Several properties were looked at including
Newark, Kennett Square mushroom farm (zoned commercial)
and West Grove
We have the opportunity to bid for property that is an
approved subdivision in West Grove, in conjunction with
Alliance for Better Housing. A decision would be made
about pursuing this option with a final decision by Equity
Members
CO HOUSING TOUR May 15 – sign up ASAP before
it fills up.. Jody Hill is coordinating our group. Jodyhill00@aol.com
MARKETING WORKSHOP April 24
VISIONING WORKSHOP – putting together workshop
to get a clear vision of Concord Village and our values.
For people who are commited and passionate about moving
forward—Barbara is working on this. Michael
Burchell has generously agreed to facilitate.
NEW COMMITMENTS:
Tom and Carolyn: arrange an info session at Newark UU
Church by 5/23
Call the new people from last meeting: Howard
Help with solar house tour: Carolyn (along with Debbie
and Stuart)
Arrange info session at:
Sandy Hollow, Barbara by 4/30
London Grove Friends Mtg, Howard by 5/23
Newark Night, Barbara by 4/30
Table or brochures at Phil Ochs Night, 5/13, Howard
Mill Creek UU Church, Debbie by 4/30
Brochures placement database, Tom by 5/23
Thank you to all who made commitments!!!
We closed with a reading.
Minutes of March 21, 2004 meeting
We met at Sharon Steele's home in Pike Creek
Present: Howard Porter, Barbara Pizzala, Tom Hammer,
Laura and Stuart Ungar, Jody Hill, Hugh Brenner,
Sharon Steele, Nancy Nobile, Paul & Diana Sammelwitz,
Lanie and Larry Lim, Julie Larrimore, and 8 young
people. Dana Steele provided child care.
Barbara facilitated.
Thank you's: Howard: lots of time, Stuart and Laura:
hosting info session and solar tour work (Stuart),
Sharon: hosting us and setting up social, Jody:
treasurer, Barbara: hours of work cohosting info
session w/Tom, Hugh: social, Tom: lots of time.
ACCOUNTABILITY:
Stuart has been working on solar house tour; he needs
help.
Jody and Stuart have not finished the sound bites yet.
Sharon and Hugh organized the March social.
Barbara has begun planning for Visioning (see below.)
Tom is continuing work on coordinating ads with the
National Association.
Hugh and Tom were not yet successful in interesting
Border's in doing an event; they need help.
Debbie was not present to report on her commitment
(info session at Mill Creek UU Church.)
Barbara has tried but not yet succeeded in scheduling
an info session at UU church on Concord Pike.
REPORTS:
Howard read letter from seller of the Kennett land
turning down our letter of intent. He proposed land
search task circle look at land in West Grove he knows
about.
Howard also reported that there will be a marketing
workshop on April 24, 9-12 a.m. at his office in
Kennett Square, possibly to be followed by an
afternoon session to develop a specific plan for the
us, Altair, and Philly. Details will follow.
Decision: Equity members reached consensus on paying
for Howard, Tom, Stuart, Nancy and Sharon to go to
this.
Anyone else interested in going to the marketing
workshop should email Tom as soon as possible.
Stuart and Laura reported about their highly positive
impression of Blueberry Hill's community in VA and
gracious hosting by Jack Wilbern and Brigitte. They
liked that cars were on the edge and kids can run
around without fear of worrying where they are. They
were also impressed with creative nature of planned
activities such as "Leap Day." They decided that what
was important was not so much the physical details as
the community.
Tom spoke about the importance of everyone trying to
go to the Mid-Atlantic Cohousing Tour coming up on May
15. Details and registration can be found at
http://www.proximitycohousing.com/MAC/Spring04Tour.htm
Barbara talked about the upcoming Visioning Workshop,
where we will work together on developing a formal
Vision Statement for our community. We are very
grateful to Michael Burchell, a talented facilitator,
who has agreed to lead us in this event. Anyone
interested in attending this event should contact
Barbara at 302 239 2287. We are looking at mid-May.
COMMITMENTS:
The Land Search Task Circle was formally begun with
Howard, Tom, Barbara, and Stuart joining.
The Marketing Task Circle was formalized, with Stuart,
Sharon, Tom, Nancy, and Howard joining.
Lanie volunteered to work on the contacts data base.
Tom will send her a copy of Philly's form.
Barbara and Jody will call first time attendees.
Laura and Stuart, and Howard and Jody (PA area) will
do info sessions.
Larry will work on web site improvement.
Jody will coordinate travel to the D.C. area (MAC)
tour.
Many thanks to all those who made commitments!
Submitted by Jody Hill and Tom Hammer
If there is anything you feel needs to be corrected
immediately, please email Tom. Otherwise, bring
corrections to the next meeting.
Minutes of Concord Village February 22, 2004 At Laura
and Stuart Ungar’s home
Present: Howard Porter, Jody Hill, Tom Hammer, Barbara
Pizzala, Stuart and Laura Ungar, Sharon Steele, Laura
Parker, Scott Walton (Gregory and Anna Marcotte potluck
only). Several young people attended with childcare provided
by Sharon’s daughter Dana.
Minutes of previous meeting were accepted, with Howard’s
addition saying we were looking at hiring an ad agency.
Next meeting: March 21, Sharon Steele’s home.
Regular times, 4:30 for newcomers, 5-6 for potluck, 6-8
for business
Social: short discussion led to acceptance of Arden "coffee
shop" Date is Friday, March 12.. Hugh and Sharon will
coordinate and send out details.
Info sessions-we will be flexible this next month and
ask new folks when they would like to meet. Tom and Barbara
will be doing an info session at Newark Co-op on Sat.
3/13 which will be advertised in the co-op newsletter.
Many thanks to various members who contributed since last
time: Jody as treasurer, Laura P for brochures and hosting
us, Hugh for several accomplishments(below), Sharon and
Stuart for work on marketing, Howard for much work, Barbara
Benton for Quaker ads, Joel for his help, Tom and Barbara
for many hours.
Accountability:
Jody and sound bite—not done yet; perhaps Stuart
will help.
Hugh—needs publicity packet for Border’s.
Has made initial contact. Bumper stickers: about $100
for 100. Possible article in Progressive Magazine. Tom:
obtained domain name, concordvillage.org, but it is not
linked to our website yet, helped Barbara Benton from
Philly place two ads for all three coho groups in Quaker
publications. (Unclear: have contact at Unitarian Church?)
Barbara P. put ad in Philly Folk Song newsletter, is placing
special brochures at her work. Sharon and Tom and Stuart
are now Marketing Task Circle. Stuart and Laura: brochures
out at JCC. Howard working on marketing workshop with
Joel.
Reports: Howard—explained complication on land
offer because of sewer moratorium. On site sewage treatment
is alternative but much more expensive.
Joel Bartlett (Altair) proposed marketing workshop in
March in cooperation with Altair and possibly Philly and
NJ groups. Most likely date is 3/27.
Tom—DC area coho tour is 5/15. Cost is $60.
Forms were distributed to sign up, and details and the
form can be downloaded from www.proximitycohousing.com/MAC/Spring04Tour.htm
Call Brigitte with questions at 703 757 2979. This tour
is very highly recommended for you to see working and
building communities and meet very interesting people.
We have had 11 from our group attend in the past, and
all seemed to enjoy it greatly.
Sustainable Business Network: Joel and Margo from Altair
will pass out our brochures at next meeting in Philly.
We are investigating joint membership with Altair in SBN.
Stuart: local solar house tour and eco friendly housing.
April 26 at 6 p.m. is tentative date and time for tour
of AstroPower (local manufacturer), May 1 for tour of
local solar houses.
Howard: met with an ad agency that could put together
a couple of ads at a discount price. Strongly encouraged
us to use our friends and acquaintances to network for
members; ask them whom they would recommend as possible
cohousers.
Commitments:
Hugh and Sharon--Social
Hugh and Tom--Border’s
Database—need someone to organize
Land trusts—need someone to follow up regarding
adjoining 4.5 acres to keep it open.
Barbara P.--Weekend or day workshop for Visioning and
values. Will ask for an outside facilitator and look into
having it at beach house in Rehoboth if there is interest.
Tom is working on getting help from National to coordinate
forming communities placing ads in national publications
like Mother Jones, Utne Reader, etc.
Minutes by Hugh Brenner and Tom Hammer
If you have something that you feel needs immediate correction,
please contact Tom at 302 239 2287. Otherwise, bring corrections
to the next meeting.
Minutes, by Jody Hill, of Concord Village Meeting, January
25, 2004 at Tom and Barbara’s home
Present: Howard Porter, Tom Hammer, Barbara Pizzala, Debbie
Dehghan, Jody Hill, Jack Wilbern, Barbara Slemmer, Stuart
and Laura Ungar and two children (Eden and Aaron). , Laura
Parker, Hugh Brenner, Joel Bartlett, Loretta and Doug
Thompson, Bill Waddington
Barbara facilitated the meeting. Minutes from the last
meeting were accepted.
Our next potluck and general meeting will be held at Stuart
and Laura’s house, Sunday, February 22, 5 to
6 for potluck, 6 to 8 for business, with new people coming
at 4:30. (NOTE DATE SENT OUT PREVIOUSLY WAS INCORRECT).
Our next social will be announced. Hugh will investigate
some fun possibilities and dates and e-mail the group.
The next information session will be February 14 at Harrington’s
Coffee House at 11 a.m. with Howard and Debbie and/or
Jody presenting.
Appreciations: Laura for even more brochures, Howard for
many hours of work, Debbie for info session, Stuart for
investigating solar tour, Tom and Barbara for many hours
of work and info session, Joel for support of our group
in many ways
Membership: reminder was given that after attending three
meetings, each person is asked to choose a level of membership
.
Presentation: Jack Wilbern of the Blueberry Hill cohousing
community in Virginia entertained the crowd with his musings
about their "imperfect utopia." He offered that he sees
the cohousing environment as a "third place" which is
neither your workplace nor your own house, but where everyone
knows your name.
He talked about what it is like to live in BH starting
with a description of daily routines and how the residents
work together in lots of little ways that make life easy
and fun. He described how they use their common house,
especially for the wonderful shared meals. He enumerated
their committees and how they work together. And he elaborated
on consensus decision-making. He expressed that he has
been personally amazed by how transformational the whole
experience has been for him.
Groups: brainstormed new ideas for marketing after splitting
up into small groups and people made commitments
Commitments for next time:
Jody—Find out about Adopting a highway, come
up with a "scalable sound bite"
Hugh--Brochures at YMCA, find out price for custom bumper
stickers, organize the next social, work on placement
of articles on cohousing and children, elderly, etc.,
look into Border’s, coordinate next social event
Jack—get name of web person to Tom, send us
generic article on "cohousing and various interest groups"
Sharon and Tom (since the meeting)—meet as marketing
task circle
Tom—investigate homeschooling newsletter ad
Debbie—contact News Journal person about Out
and About article, also Crossroads
Barbara—set up info session at Concord Pike
UU Church, contact Shelly re Wilmington Montessori.
Joel—do info session at above church, get article
to Stuart & Laura for JCC, host a marketing seminar
with us (and Philly?)
Stuart and Laura—find out about publicity at
JCC and Temple Beth El
Howard—work on marketing seminar with Joel
-
Reports:
Commitments to tasks from last time:
1. Howard: take and resupply brochures to 4 W 5--done,
Dept. of Community Development, West Chester, investigate
land trust with Tom for 4.5 acres--started.
2. Marti: take and resupply brochures to Borders, Concord
Pike--done and Brandywine Library--done, look into Concord
Pike UU Church.
3. Debbie take and resupply brochures to Bear Library—done,,
schedule an info session at her UU church, look into Newark
UU church, create database for all contacts, coordinate
social==done.
4. Barbara: launch recruiting and Gore (her workplace)--started,
coordinate w/Altair to run joint ad in Folksong newsletter
& Sustainability Network, make color copies of PowerPoint
presentation slides--done, coordinate social--done
5. Tom—get domain name--started, investigate
land trust with Howard for 4.5 acres--started, investigate
www.meetup.com--done, coordinate w/ Laura about new brochures--done
Land: We have not yet heard from the owners of the property
as to their decision about our letter of intent. Howard
has spoken with them, and they have indicated that they
are still considering it and plan to give us an answer
by early February. Debbie and Stuart have both, since
the meeting, suggested other pieces of land.
Altair: Joel reports that their Kimberton-based group
is still seeking a parcel of land. They are trying to
promote cohousing at the county level and trying to recruit
townships. He reports that they have six equity members.
Minutes of Concord Village meeting on Dec. 14, 2003 at
Howard Porter’s home
Present: Howard, Debbie Dehghan, Jody Hill, Tom Hammer,
Barbara Pizzala, Marti Farra
Facilitator: Debbie
Thank you’s to all who contributed: Jody for
the last minutes, Tom and Howard for many hours, Karen
Minnick for hosting and email work with Tom, Barbara for
meetings with new people. If we missed anyone, please
let us know.
Next meeting: Sun. Jan. 25 at Tom and Barbara’s
home. 4:30 for new people, 5-6 for potluck, 6-8 for business.
Social: at Tom and Barbara’s home on Saturday
Jan. 10 for a movie night. Debbie and Barbara will coordinate
and send details.
Reports:
1. Land acquisition: Howard reported progress. Seller
received financial statements from the equity members
and from our potential architect/investor and seems to
be reacting favorably. We may have a response before the
holidays.
2. Accountability: we checked with commitments from the
last meeting. Most were done.
Discussion/Actions:
1. Membership: Tom presented a proposal from him and Karen
Minnick to modify membership levels as was already reported
in a previous email. We accepted it by consensus. We now
have a new level: Inquirer, with lower dues.
2. Affordability: Howard reported on an idea of his. The
group agreed to request the Alliance for Better Housing
to submit a proposal to be a business partner with us
in order to provide real estate development services,
predevelopment funds, apply for other project funding
and to help with sales in return for a fee for services
rendered-which are yet to be determined and would be negotiated.
3. Recruiting, Tasks and Commitments:
Howard: take and resupply brochures to 4 W 5, Dept. of
Community Development, West Chester, investigate land
trust with Tom for 4.5 acres
Marti: take and resupply brochures to Borders, Concord
Pike and Brandywine Library, look into Concord Pike UU
Church
Debbie take and resupply brochures to Bear Library, schedule
an info session at her UU church, look into Newark UU
church, create database for all contacts, coordinate social
Barbara: launch recruiting and Gore (her workplace), coordinate
w/Altair to run join ad in Folksong newsletter & Sustainability
Network, make color copies of PowerPoint presentation
slides, coordinate social
Tom—get domain name, investigate land trust
with Howard for 4.5 acres, investigate www.meetup.com,
coordinate w/ Laura about new brochures
Jody—agreed to become our treasurer!
We adjourned with a song led by Howard.
Submitted by Barbara Pizzala
If you no longer want to receive these notes, please let
us know with a reply to Tom; if you are not yet a member
of our Yahoo group, please help us and join by emailing
Tom: thammer302@yahoo.com
Additions or corrections that need immediate changing
should be emailed to Tom; otherwise, please bring your
suggestion to the next meeting.
(Equity members met with Jack Wilbern for an hour
before the potluck.)
November 16, 2003 at Karen Minnick's home
(preceded by social event and 1st birthday celebration.)
Present: Jody Hill, Karen Bacot, Karen Minnick, Laura
Parker, Howard Porter, Tom Hammer, Barbara Pizzala, and
3 young people
Tom did a reading by Ann Zabaldo about the importance
of work in building our relationships. The minutes of
the October 19 meeting and today’s agenda were
accepted.
REPORTS
Commitments from last time:
Debbie talked to her Unitarian Church, and we will be
on their agenda in the near future.
Karen M put flyers in the Great P |
