News and Updates

Highlands Community Association annual meeting 2017

Alicia Ashman Library

October 19, 2017

President Jane McMurray called the meeting to order at 7:05 P.M., and introduced David Trowbridge of the City of Madison Planning Division.Mr. Trowbridge presented an overview of land use and transportation planning as presently envisioned by City of Madison officials.

Mr. Trowbridge stated that a decision taken in the 1960s not to build an expressway through the Madison isthmus is viewed as a good decision in contrast to cities that did build such expressways. Mr. Trowbridge reflected the view of city officials that the solution to congestion on the isthmus is public transportation, and pedestrian and bicycle transportation, and further stated that the newest generation of people wish to live downtown and do not wish to own automobiles. The surge of new employment at Epic in Verona was mentioned in this connection.

The university is the other major employment force and is itself downtown.

Mr. Trowbridge showed maps that suggest poor neighborhoods exist principally in pockets on the edges of the city, and stated that a major part of the city officials’ transport plan is to provide rapid transit corridors so as to facilitate residents of poor areas to take public transit downtown, and to East and West Towne, for access to entry level jobs. Mr. Trowbridge noted that such plans would require federal tax dollars, and that the present federal administration does not support such plans.

Mr. Trowbridge stated that building sidewalks in areas that do not have sidewalks is a highly controversial issue, and stated there are no present plans for sidewalks in the Highlands Area.

Mr. Trowbridge described and provided printed materials relating to bicycle and pedestrian treatments, in rail corridors, other corridors, and on streets. In response to a question, Mr. Trowbridge stated that the city and the Wisconsin and Southern Railroad are at present not getting along so as to facilitate use of the railroad right of way for a bicycle path extension near the Highlands neighborhood.

The Association thanked Mr. Trowbridge, and President McMurray presented him with gifts of appreciation.

The business meeting began at 7:45 P.M.

The minutes of the 2016 annual meeting were reviewed and approved.

President McMurray thanked Tom Wolfe for his service on the Association Board of Directors and presented Tom with a gift of appreciation.

President’s report:

The President passed out printed materials about the community crime map website and self reporting system. She also urged people to lock their cars and house doors, and stated that there are incidents in the Highlands neighborhood of unknown persons testing doors to see if they are open.

In November, DNR will cull deer and turkeys from Owen park, and thus from the Highlands. This is done by contract with the United States Department of Agriculture, which provides sharpshooters. The object is to reduce the deer herd to two male deer, and turkeys to four individuals. Similar culling has been done in the past. Deer damage Oak, and Turkeys rake the ground to the detriment of native vegetation, thereby encouraging invasive vegetation.

Up to date information about recycling and yard waste was distributed.

President McMurray asked board member Susan King to report on the purchase and sale of Cherry trees. Susan stated the Association bought 100 3-4 foot high cherry trees, which were planted in the neighborhood including Icke and Mattox parks, and as sold to individual neighborhood purchasers. The purpose was to replace cherry trees that are reaching the end of their life cycle, and other lost trees such as ash. Susan stated that perhaps next year tulip or yellow poplar trees might be so acquired and distributed. The Association made a small profit on the resale of trees. Susan stated that the next tree disease may affect maples. John Valley expressed the appreciation of the neighborhood for the successful initiative lead by Susan King.

President McMurray reported on another invasive species, jumping worms, against which there is no apparent defense. The fear is that this species converts leaf cover so fast as to leave roots unprotected, and again favor other invasive species. It appears that all earthworms in North America are old world invasive, and that they have reduced forest floor cover since the beginning of the Columbian exchange.

There was a general discussion of the rumor that the City of Madison has set its sights on the Highlands for curb and gutter and sidewalks. It appears, according to a statement made by a city official to Susan King, that the city website which showed such a plan was a “mistake” and has been removed. It was noted, however, that city officials at some levels believe that curb and gutter is the answer to what they perceive is undue erosion affecting streets, in the neighborhood.

Treasurer’s report

Treasurer Ted Tibbitts reported the Association is in good shape financially, having about $3,000.00 in a checking account, and another $3,000.00 in a cd which pays very little. The chief expense in the last year was attorneys fees to deal with issues raised in 2017 by the seller and the purchaser, of 1022 Hillside avenue. The Association will shortly pay $1,000.00 to the Crestwood school group, the second of three such payments approved at the 2016 annual meeting. Ted Tibbitts noted that 37 of 98 residences had paid dues as members of the Association. He noted the board decided that distribution of the Association directory to each resident will now be contingent on their having paid the current annual dues (of $20.00).

Election of Board members:

On motion, Susan King was re-elected to a term on the board, Andrew Bent was elected to a first term (Andrew has served on the board in the past) and Suzie Eckerman was elected to a first term on the board.

Social activities.

There were 30-36 people at the fourth of July gathering, conducted as usual with Skyline residents invited.

Caitlin Klein will again lead a Halloween Trick or Treat, this time starting on South Highlands.

President McMurray stated that it is still hoped to have a holiday party at the UW president’s facility, failing that at a private residence, and failing that perhaps at some other public facility.

It is hoped to have a 2018 progressive dinner.

The meeting adjourned at 8:26 P.M.

Respectfully submitted,

Jack Walker, secretary

Highlands Community Association 2017 Annual Meeting

When: Thursday, October 19^th at 7pm

Where: Alicia Ashman Library-Large Conference Rm

733 N. High Point Road

Madison

Guest Speaker: David Towbridge

City of Madison-Planning Division Madison In Motion

Please join us for an informative evening as we learn about Madison In Motion. Mr. Towbridge will present the city’s plan to make Madison a more walk-able, bike-able and transit -oriented city.

Attached is an updated neighborhood community association membership form that can be returned to either Ted Tibbit’s mailbox or we will collect them at the annual meeting. The $20 dues fee entitles you to a copy of the neighborhood directory and social activities.

Only those who pay the association dues will receive a copy of the directory this year.

A business meeting including slating of new prospective board members will follow the presentation by Mr. Towbridge.

Did You Know…

Halloween:

The city of Madison does not have official times for Trick –or-Treating, but recommends 4pm to 8pm. As always, please remember to leave a front porch light on to indicate that you are distributing treats!

A Note from Katelyn Klein: We will be making our rounds with the neighborhood children in our “Haywagon” trailer again this Halloween! We are planning on beginning earlier this year (4:30pm) so that we can make the most of the daylight hours and our little goblins energy J We will be starting on South Highlands Ave and hope to make the full loop if our goblins don’t run out of steam!

Please contact me with any questions at katelynestelleklein@gmail.com

Owen Conservancy Culling of Turkey and Deer:

The DNR held a meeting on October 2^nd to inform the neighborhoods surrounding the conservancy of the need to decrease the population of turkey and deer. They noted that both of these animals have had a deleterious effect on the grass plains and Oak Stands in the conservancy.

The deer and turkey will be hunted and shot starting most likely in November to thin their numbers significantly. The kills will take place at night using silencers and sharpshooters.

2017 Annual Holiday Party:

We are looking for a neighbor to host our 2017 Highlands Holiday party in December or January, your choice!

The neighborhood association will supply the decorations, paper goods, invitations and clean up!

Your friendly neighbors will provide appetizers, desserts and wine. This is a really fun evening where everyone can gather, catch up with each other and celebrate the holidays!

Please contact Jane McMurray if you are interested in hosting J

Progressive Dinner:

After a brief hiatus, the 2018 Progressive Dinner will be returning next summer. If you are interested in helping please indicate on your neighborhood association membership form or contact Susan King!

Leaf Collections:

The city of Madison is in the process of collecting leaves for the fall. The city will be picking them up as long as weather permits. If you are interested, the city is instituting a Leave the Leaf program that helps keep our lakes clean and decrease the nutrients that encourage Blue Algae blooms. You can go to the city website to look for more information on this program.

Car Break Ins:

Our neighborhood continues to be a target for thieves who are taking advantage of unlocked cars parked in driveways. If you are a victim of a one of these thefts please contact the Madison police department by the non-emergency number or website. See something suspicious…report it!Fall 2015

Did You Know…..?

Annual Meeting: The 2015 Highlands Community Association will hold it’s Annual Meeting October 21^st, 2015 at 7pm. Please join us in the Little Theatre at Crestwood School. Our featured speaker will be Officer Jordan Ebner from the Madison Police Department.

A full agenda will follow in the next week.

Progressive Dinner and 4^th of July Celebration: Thank you to Susan King and her crew for organizing this year’s Progressive Dinner. About 55 neighbors attended and enjoyed a wonderful evening, Please save the date of June 18^th for the 2016 Progressive Dinner. If you are interested in hosting dinner for a group of 8-10 in your home or are willing to help with this event please contact Susan King.

Many of us enjoyed a delicious brunch and parade during the 4^th of July Celebration held on Larch Circle. We welcomed lots of new families with children who have moved into the neighborhood, so it was quite a fun filled morning. Let Jane McMurray know if you would like to help in planning our 2016 Celebration. Check out the photo’s attached.

Are you a member? Please consider joining the neighborhood association! The annual fee is $20 per family and covers the cost of publishing the neighborhood directory, tending the gardens at the North and South Highlands Ave entrances and supporting projects at Crestwood Elementary School.

You can pay your dues at the Annual Meeting on the 21^st or put them in Ted Tibbitts mailbox (6217 S. Highlands)

Pet Pick Up: Please remember to pick up your pets mess as you enjoy your walk in the neighborhood. We have had a few complaints, especially on South Highlands, about this matter. Thanks!

Autumn Debris Pick Up: Brush pick up for our neighborhood has been completed for the fall. I have attached a copy of the leaf management for clean lakes document from the city water department. Leaves as well as other small yard debris can always be taken to the City of Madison drop-off sites. See attachments for further information regarding location and hours.

Association Board Members: Please consider joining our Community Association Board! We are currently looking to fill some upcoming vacancies. Are you new to the neighborhood and would like to get to know your neighbors better? Are you interested in keeping the unique characteristics of The Highlands preserved for future neighbors? Become part of an amazing group of folks who truly care about the place we all call home.

Time commitments include 3 meetings / year and the Annual Meeting every year. Contact Jane McMurray if you are interested.

Enjoy these glorious fall days! Hope to see many of you at the Annual Meeting.

Jane McMurray

The Highlands Fling

Fall 2014

2014 Annual Neighborhood Meeting

Wednesday, October 29^th, 7pm

Crestwood Elementary School

The Little Theatre

Guest Speaker: Dane County Executive: Joe Parisi

Business Meeting Agenda

Presidents Report

2013 Meeting Minutes Review

Treasurers Report

Election of Directors: Slate for 2014 – 17

Susan King: New Member

Thomas Wolfe: 2^nd term

Progressive Dinner

Call for Final Business

Call for Meeting to Adjourn

Please try to attend this meeting to hear the latest update about Dane County and have your questions answered!

Did You Know…

2013 Holiday Party: About 60 neighbors attended the annual Highlands Holiday Party. Hosted by Kate and Kevin Riley at Brittingham House last December 18^th. Guest collected almost 100lbs of food for the Second Harvest Food Bank.

Take a look at the pictures of some of those who enjoyed the evening by clicking on the attachments! We are currently looking for a host for this year’s Holiday Party. As host all you need to provide is your home. The neighbors bring the Hors d’oeuvres and wine. The Board provides non-alcoholic beverages, paper goods and collection/delivery of the food for Second Harvest. Please contact Jane McMurray if interested in hosting this really fun event.

2014 4^th of July Brunch: Resurrected for 2014, neighbors from Skyline joined their Highlands next door neighbors for a parade and brunch this past 4^th of July. Bicycles were decorated and pets encouraged to walk in the parade as the participants showed their patriotic pride. We enjoyed a beautiful day with great brunch dishes, conversation and face painting for the kids.

Enjoy some of the pictures of the kids by clicking on the attachments!

Are you a member? Membership to the Neighborhood Association is only $20 per year. The fee covers the cost of publishing the neighborhood directory, tending plants and the flower - beds located at North and South Highlands entrances. A 2014 Membership Form is attached to this email. You can return it at the annual meeting this week or mail to Ted Tibbitts.

Have you visited the neighborhood website recently?

Did you know we have a neighborhood website? This is not the “Nextdoor” website that sends out notices to you via email. Andree and John Valley have set up this very well designed website that includes News and Minutes, Events, Photos and a current list of current board members with contact information. Most recently they have added as PDF files two important booklets that reflect the history of the Highlands and the preservation of the unique landscape of our neighborhood. Please take a few minutes to visit the website and familiarize yourself with it. The address is https://sites.google.com/site/53705highlands/

Fall Leaf Collection: Brush collections for the spring have ended and the city has moved to leaf collection for the fall. Our leaf collection day is Friday. Our last collection in the neighborhood was October 17^th . The city will continue to collect leaves until the first snow.

The city will collect grass clippings, plant debris, twigs less than 18 inches long and Pumpkins along with your leaves. Any questions you may have are readily answered by going to the city website.

Fall Cleaning? Clean sweep is open all year round and will take your old electronics, oil based paints, and other toxic substances. The year round site is located 7102 US Hwy 12 Madison 53718. Visit the Dane County Clean Sweep website to see the current hours of operation.

Looking to join the Board? We are always looking for new members to join our board! The Highlands Community Association Board is committed to preserving the unique atmosphere and landscape of The Highlands. We strive to provide relevant information regarding city events/issues that may impact our neighborhood. We promote a sense of community through our annual meeting presentations and social activities held throughout the year. The commitment is 3 meetings a year plus the annual meeting. Please contact Jane McMurray if you are interested!

Trick or Treat! The city of Madison is recommending the time frame for Friday’s Trick or Treat is 4pm to 8pm. Please leave your front porch light on if you would like to participate!

Enjoy the last of the beautiful leaves. Hope to see you all at the annual meeting this week.

Jane McMurray

The Highlands Fling

Spring 2013

Did You Know…..

Annual Meeting: The 2012 Highlands Neighborhood Association’s annual meeting was held November 13th at the Lussier Community Center. The meeting featured a presentation by Keith Yelinek and Justice Pat Roggensack on the history of residential zoning in the Highlands. Other topics discussed included: Change in city zoning status from R1R to TRR, Lot division at 6201 N. Highlands Ave, Project H2O, Social activities and Highlands Website Update.

Ted Tibbitts was approved as the new treasurer and Dan Mohs was approved as the newest board member. A plan to hire an arborist to evaluate the neighborhood tree status was discussed and tabled. For more information about the zoning changes please visit the city website.

Progressive Dinner/ 4th of July Brunch: We are looking for a volunteer(s) who will be willing to head up one of these two wonderful social events this summer.

A neighborhood couple has graciously offered their home for the progressive dinner/cocktail party and we have received the names of neighbors interested in serving as Indians….now all we need is a chief!

Please contact Jane McMurray if you are interested or would like more information.

We are also in need of a volunteer to co-ordinate the annual 4th of July brunch. This position entails distributing flyers in mailboxes (or email) that remind neighbors of the event and encourage them to bring a brunch dish to share. We usually set up two long rectangular tables in front of Yelinek’s house for the food. Neighbors gather and we parade down South Highlands around Skyline Drive and head back for brunch. A cooler of lemonade and paper goods round out the list of “to do’s”.

Please contact Jane McMurray if you are interested.

Project H20: Installation of the wireless water meters continues in our neighborhood. If you wish to opt out please visit the city website for details. There is a fee involved and paper work that needs to be filed.

Garlic Mustard: Just a gentle reminder that as things start to green up, we can expect the return of the dreaded Garlic Mustard. This invasive plant makes a great pesto in the spring, but eventually crowds out our native wildflowers and becomes a menace. It is best to pull any plants before they have a chance to flower and spread their seeds. According to the city website, Garlic Mustard should be placed in the trash not taken to the Yard Waste drop off sites. Those sites are now open 8:30 to 4:30 seven days a week and Tuesday and Thursday until 8pm. The closest drop off location to our neighborhood is 402 South Point Road. Compost information and details about how to deal with brush are on the city website.

They’re Back….We had a family of five deer come through our backyard this week. I thought I was seeing things, but it looks like they are indeed back in the neighborhood. Other neighborhood wildlife sited have included a rooster, a Ferret, lots of turkeys, coyote’s and owls. Remember to use spray with DEET if you will be doing outside work on your property and always check for ticks.

Who’s There? We had reports of someone ringing doorbells during the evening and middle of the night. (it happen at our house last month) Thieves sometimes use this tactic to determine if someone is present at the home. Other issues reported include a theft from a car on N. Highlands (last fall) and someone using a car on S. Highlands as a place to smoke a cigarette.(this winter) Given the rash of burglaries in Stonefield last December and the warmer weather coming PLEASE keep your house and car doors locked. If you see anything suspicious contact the police. If you have a car theft please notify Jane McMurray and she will send out an email alerting the neighborhood of the event.

Are you a member? Membership to the Neighborhood Association is only $25 per year. The fee covers the cost of publishing the neighborhood directory, tending the planting/flower beds located at the North Highlands entrance and South Highlands/Hillside intersection and has funded educational programs at Crestwood Elementary School.

Have you seen the neighborhood website? Andee Valley has created a website for our neighborhood. The address to view it is www.highlandsneighborhood.org . Please feel free to leave comments, submit photos or articles to Andee and she will upload them to the site. There are some great aerial photos of the neighborhood and we hope to utilize the site for better communication within the neighborhood in the future. Thanks Andee for all of your work to create the site and maintaining it.

Spring Cleaning? Clean sweep, the city of Madison’s drop off program for hazardous waste will be opening a new facility on HWY 12. The drop off facility on Fish Hatchery Road is now closed. The new drop off site will open on May 1st. Please visit the city website for more information on what materials will be accepted and hours of the new site.

Neighborhood Board Current Members

Jane McMurray, President , Editor: The Highlands Fling

Sam Gubbels, Vice President

Ted Tibbitts, Treasurer

Katie Sekelsky, Secretary

Robert Gibson

John Valley

Jack Walker

Bob Horowitz

Tom Wolfe

Dan Mohs