HomeMy WebLinkAbout2019.09.18 Community Garden MinutesColleyville Community Garden Committee
Minutes - September 18, 2019
Attendees
Committee Members: Linda Newton, Rich Hendler, Pam Buie
City Representative: Mayor Richard Newton and Lisa Escobedo
Absent: Amanda Novak and Uma Lal
Mayor Richard Newton called the meeting to order at 6:00 pm and explained he was chairing the meeting due to the
resignation of Natalie Genco.
The minutes from the last meeting were considered and Linda Newton stated that she did not want to recommend any
corrections or changes due to two of the members present at the last meeting not being in attendance (Natalie Genco
and Amanda Novak). However, she did want it stated for the record that she felt that some of the comments made in
the minutes probably were influenced by Natalie’s frustration and subsequent resignation from the committee. Rich
moved to approve the minutes as recorded by Natalie, Linda seconded and the motion carried.
Mayor Newton spoke to the history of the committee and the current status; the need to appoint a new chair and to
elect a vice-chair and secretary. He stated that we need to determine where we go from here, and that additional
involvement by the community was needed. If the decision is to move forward the committee needs to be
reconstituted. He then asked for comments from each committee member. Pam stated that she felt sad about losing
Natalie and was confused by the tension apparent at the last meeting. She acknowledged that she had missed several
prior meetings so she was not aware of what might have led to the tense situation. She would like for Natalie to return
to the committee, but felt like the group needs to be more focused.
Linda and Rich each shared their thoughts about when and why the group became divided in their approach to moving
forward. As reflected in the minutes from the last meeting, there was a serious difference of opinion about how much
more groundwork was needed before making a presentation to the council, and the differences in personalities and
style led to obstacles in making progress.
Mayor Newton again emphasized that we need to determine where we go from here, the need for more people (both
on the committee and as volunteers), and that the garden and positions on the committee need to be publicized. He
feels the garden club needs to be involved and offered to make inquiries in that effort. He also stated that the city could
use their resources to better publicize the garden.
Pam recommended using the city’s weekly newsletter to publicize the garden. Linda stated that the advisory committee
needs people with organizational skills as well as an interest in gardening. Richard recommended going back to explore
the need and interest level for a garden, and suggested involving the school districts.
Rich asked about the status of appointments to various boards and Richard shared that the city is considering changing
the process to allow applicants to apply at any time during the year and appointing all committees once a year.
The meeting was adjourned at 7:10 pm.
Minutes Approved on October 28, 2019.