Meeting 01-29-07

Eleven neighbors gathered at our SAFE Neighborhood Watch meeting on Monday, January 29th, at Doug and Denise's. Many issues were discussed, a few decisions made, lots of information shared, and even a mystery solved! Here's a summary:

1) Graffiti - Shauna completed graffiti training, as have Mary and Kevin in the past. All neighbors are urged to report graffiti immediately, and especially keep an eye on the Canyon: it's gotten gross. Call: 28CLEAN, or 911. It is a crime against property to post graffiti, and the penalty for a first offense is 100 hours of graffiti removal. The city should respond to calls within 24-48 hours, and will have the graffiti removed. REMINDER - we are responsible for removing graffiti from our own property, and can be fined and charged for any painting done by the city! See Dept. Public Works for more details.

2) Sunset Scavenger - The supervisor has been alerted that Thursday collection days on Chilton have resulted in much left-behind litter, and they have been urged to have more than one employee help. Much as we hope for their cooperation, neighbors are reminded that we are each responsible for cleaning up around our own houses, so - take a few minutes and pick up the trash! The wind can work wonders at dispersing it elsewhere, and we all have an interest in keeping our street beautiful! SUGGESTION: put out garbage cans late on Wednesday night, and pick them up as early as possible on Thursday, to improve our appearance. MYSTERY SOLVED: the identity of the owner of the extra green trash can has been discovered, and will be returned!

3) Dogs - Information was shared on SF laws: Dogs are to be leashed any time they're off their property; all dogs must be registered after 30 days of residence; aggressive dogs must be neutered, and any aggressive behavior by dogs is not tolerated. Neighbors are reminded to report problems to the Animal Care and Control by calling 415-554-6364, and they will investigate and respond. The following website also has helpful information: Bad Rap talks about the ownership, care, and training of pit bulls, and seeks to destroy prejudices while advocating responsibility and information as the key to a city that is dog-friendly, and danger-free.

4) Communications and Updates

a) Blog - Martha will re-invite Chilton neighbors to join the blog, and will hold refresher courses and/or make house calls for all who so desire! Keep informed by signing up for a free email subscription to Chilton Chats.

b) Phone List and Email List - Continue to send updated information to Martha via email, and she will periodically send via email the revised list.

c) Hand Delivery of Notices - Meeting notices and meeting summaries will be hand-delivered to those who don't use email (thank you, Elizabeth!).

5) OPEN FORUM - Many topics were discussed:

a) Median strip - it's been cleaned up a lot, but still needs more bushes to replace those destroyed by auto accidents;
b) Bookstore - it's closing! However, owner hopes to move elsewhere in the neighborhood; a license for a full-service restaurant was posted;
c) Canyon Market - it's open; many spoke of what an asset it is to our neighborhood; prices are comparable and/or better, and quality is better than, other nearby chains;
d) Eggette - one of 3 in SF, it's had a slow start, but may catch on;
e) Gallina - chef is from a big restaurant; prices are reasonable; food is good.

NEXT MEETING: April 30 at Barbara's (watch your email for more information)