Trustees in attendance: Abe Bruckman; Paul Ciupa; Steve Henstridge, Greg Huth; Jim O’Connor; Alice Ratka; Dane Reich; Lynea Reindel; Matt Reitz; Ralph Thompson

Staff: Robyn Sandys; Debra Zeleny

Matt Reitz called the meeting to order at 6:10 p.m., followed by introductions of all present.

Minutes: The minutes of the December 11, 2007 Board Meeting were read and approved.

Councilman Report: Councilmen Cummins and Kelly were present but did not give reports.

Treasurer’s Report: The Treasurer’s report was read and accepted.

Auditor’s Report and Approval of 2007 Audit: Mr. Mike McManus of McManus, Dosen & Co., went over the financial statements for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2007. The Form 990 for the table year ended June 30, 2007 has an extended due date of February 15, 2008 and will be filed by that date. Mr. McManus answered questions from the Board.

Dane Reich moved to approve Resolution 1-2008-02, approving the audit, with any reference to the Form 990 deleted because the return had not yet been filed .Motion approved.

Executive Director Report: The Executive Director presented her report.

The Executive Director’s report included Resolution 1-2008-03 for $50,000 for emergency home repairs in Wards 15 and 16 funded by both councilmen. The board discussed the distribution of funds and learned that while the emphasis in Ward 15 would be on Denison Avenue, there would be funding for the rest of the ward as well. In Ward 16, the funds are to be used where there is the most need. The resolution was amended (with regard to Ward 15) to read “with emphasis on Denison Avenue.” The Board approved the resolution. .

The Executive Director’s report also included Resolution 1-2008-01, providing for a 3% cost of living raise, effective January 1, 2008 for the Executive Director. This resolution followed upon approval of Resolution 12-2007-11 last month, approving a 3% cost of living increase for the staff. The Board approved the resolution.

The report also covered the 2008 Business Directory, Spring Housing Fair, The Old Brooklyn News, and the Memphis School site. Details are in the narrative provided with the agenda.

Committee Reports: Jim O’Connor discussed the Housing Fair. There is a planning meeting scheduled for February 6, 2008 at the CDC. Everyone is invited to attend.

Other Business:

Member John Jenkins presented, in the form of a resolution, a motion that the Board investigate and study the feasibility of constructing a community center on the Memphis School site. The motion will be referred to the Executive Committee for placement on the agenda.

Member Mary Ann Janazzo, a member of the OBN Advisory Committee, suggested the creation of an editorial board to make decisions on material going into the OBN.

Steve Henstridge presented information concerning the pending request for a zoning variance for a bar located at 4450 Broadview Road, the Greenleaf Tavern. The matter was referred to the Executive Director and Staff to work with the councilman and residents to ensure that that the opinions of the residents are understood. The Executive Director will talk to Councilman Kelly about seeking a postponement of the Zoning Board Appeals hearing until March 2008

Matt Reitz moved, at 8:05 p.m., to adjourn the meeting. Motion approved.