The minutes of the previous meeting were reviewed and adopted.

Treasurers Report:
There was no Treasurer's report.

Committee Reports:

Community Relations:
Ed reported that he and Craig heard Stu Armstrong speak at a WNCW meeting concerning his intentions in the Newtown Grant Area. He said that the meeting was informative, and that he had invited Stu to come to a future Board meeting to share his plans.

Real Estate:
There was a discussion about a property line dispute in Newtown. It was also noted that the property at 117 Madison Place had been emptied. The house is now on the market. Possible actions to prevent a new owner from continuing the living conditions at the house were discussed.

There was much discussion regarding updating of the code and improving enforcement of property maintenance. Elizabeth volunteered to approach a Council member about the problem. Joel agreed to help. Included in this discussion was the problem of building permits having no expiration date. This allows property owners to take years to come into compliance.

Newtown Business Guild:
The Newtown Business Guild is still working to address the problems with property maintenance at West Beverley and Jefferson Streets. Newspaper coverage of the problem was discussed.

Old Business:

Ed reported that the NNA candidate's forum was a success. Considering the standing room only attendance and the closeness of the Treasurer's race, the forum was arguably a factor in the outcome of the election.

We also heard that over 25 NNA members enjoyed an afternoon of tea and music in our first "Culture Zone" event. (Discussion of future events of this nature was discussed under new business.)

There was an update on plans for the Christmas Tree Walk. The pre-party for participants and Board members will be on December 16th, with the walk on the 17th. Times and stops on the tour to be finalized by December first.

New Business:

Ed remarked that NNA normally compensates the local churches when we use their facilities.

Joe moved and Shirley seconded:
NNA will make a thirty dollar donation to Staunton Grace Covenant Church for the use of their hall for the Candidate's Forum.
The motion passed unanimously.

Ed presented to the Board a proposed letter written by Sara to be sent to City council by NNA. The letter outlines the reasons that we are disappointed by Council's action in overturning a decision by HPC concerning a new driveway in the Gospel Hill Historic District. It was noted that the Board had not had enough time to properly read and consider the letter. It was also decided that we wanted to get the letter out as soon as possible, so we would collaborate in editing by email. So...

Joe moved and Barbara seconded:
The Board authorizes the President to send a letter to Council about their recent overturning of an HPC decision. The Board will provide input via email.
The motion passed unanimously.

There was discussion of future "Culture Zone" programs, including artist showings and future recitals.

Barbara presented the latest edition of "Newtown News" to the Board. We will get it printed up and distributed by Thanksgiving in order for potential Christmas Tree Walk participants to get the word.

Ed asked the Board to start thinking about a program for the Winter Event. Ed discussed the need for a December meeting, and the hectic nature of the Holidays.

Bob moved and Joel seconded:
There will be no December 2005 meeting of the NNA Board of Directors.
The motion passed unanimously.

Ed reported that the Historic Staunton Foundation had presented NNA, along with Katharine Brown and the Newtown Business Guild with its annual Heritage award. The award was passed around the room, with "oohs" and "aahs" all around.

The President commended Shirley for her role in the "Culture Zone" event, as well as for her initiative to welcome new members to the neighborhood. Shirley asked the Board for their blessing in getting tea towels as a gift for new neighbors. These towels will be imprinted with the NNA logo.

Joe moved and Elizabeth seconded:
The Board says "Go For It!" in Shirley's effort to get welcoming tea towels to distribute to new neighbors in Newtown.
The motion passed unanimously.

It was decided that the next meeting will be held on Thursday, January 19th at 6:30PM. It will be held at Elizabeth Dyjak's house, 208 Fayette Street.

The meeting adjourned at 8:05PM.

The Board remained to hover around the table. Hmmm. The cheeses, the veggie dip, the assortment of wines.... This NNA Board member thing is not a bad gig at all. We all selflessly suffer through it.