December meeting had norms activity and Rebuilding guest

The Woodland Heights Organization held its December monthly meeting Tuesday, December 17, 2019 at Scottish Rite Park. The room was full of about 17 regular meeting attendees from all corners of the neighborhood, but no new members were present.

Cameron leads group norms activity during
WHO December meeting 12/17/19

The main item of business on the agenda was a participatory activity where WHO members moved around the room writing suggestions and questions about the current and proposed group norms for the organization. Neighbors shared feedback under the topics of: time, listening, decision-making, participation, and miscellaneous. The many, great ideas will be reviewed by the Welcome Wagon Committee who plan to return to the WHO in February with a draft of community guidelines to be used to aid in effectively and efficiently achieving neighborhood goals.

The Welcome Wagon also brought forward a proposal for a pilot-project to create welcome bags for new neighbors to Woodland Heights. This 3-month-pilot passed and will start in January 2020. 

WHO meeting attendees learn about
Rebuilding Together 12/17/19

An AmeriCorp member, working for the local non-profit Rebuilding Together spoke at the meeting about the group’s mission, purpose, and programs. Rebuilding Together matches volunteer labor and supplies with area homes needing TLC to stay safe, warm, and dry, making critical home repairs for low-income homeowners at no cost to the resident.
The main program highlighted was the Wells Fargo National Rebuilding Day, coming up the first Friday and Saturday in May (5/1 & 5/2 of 2020). More information can be found online at https://rebuildingdm.org

Check the calendar page of this website for information about the upcoming social event: WHO’s New Year Cooking (& Dessert) Kick-Off. In lieu of the regular January monthly meeting, attend this fun dessert potluck Tuesday, January 21, 2020 at 7pm at Scottish Rite Park. Invite your neighbors and bring a sweet treat to share. Catch up with old friends, meet some new friends, socialize, and share ideas about what you want to see in the neighborhood and priorities for the WHO in the coming year.







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This post typed by Phil.

The Woodland Heights Organization (WHO) is the neighborhood association recognized by the city of Des Moines representing Woodland Heights. Its purpose is is to stabilize, preserve, and revitalize area homes, enhance the quality of life in the neighborhood, and to promote community within our neighborhood amongst all residents and businesses. WHO is a volunteer organization.

for more information email who50312@gmail.com; view past issues of the email newsletter and subscribe at bit.ly/whoemail; like us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/whodesmoines

Chamberlain Park history featured at Nov. meeting

The Woodland Heights Organization (WHO) held its November 2019, regular, monthly meeting on Tuesday, Nov. 19.  Perhaps the most interesting portion of the meeting was a presentation from Steve Nelson-Vaux, a volunteer historian, with a passion for Des Moines parks.

Steve Nelson-Vaux, a volunteer passionate about history and parks
presents on Chamberlain Park history November 19, 2019

Nelson-Vaux took meeting attendees on quite a journey from the glaciers that covered parts of Iowa, to early settlement, and decisions to set aside green space around the city instead of creating one, central park.  Besides the many pictures and resources he shared at the meeting, Nelson-Vaux recommended a history presentation about Chamberlain Park (created in 2016) that can be found online at the city's website (link here). 

Welcome Wagon presents on progress made and future
ideas during the WHO meeting Nov. 19, 2019

The night's other presentation was from the Welcome Wagon (Welcome Committee) about the work they have made so far this year.  Highlights included: conversations and direction the group has gone, initiatives that have already been implemented, upcoming plans for new outreach, and what it means to be a welcoming group.  An immediate step will be taken next month at the December WHO meeting (12/17/19) where there will be a workshop/activity neighbors and attendees can participate in around the idea of group-norms and best-practices for being welcoming, inclusive, and productive.

NBSD officer, Sgt. Yanira Scarlett updates the WHO at
the November, 19, 2019 meeting

As usual, Sgt. Scarlett of the Des Moines Police Department (a Neighborhood Based Service Delivery officer) shared the latest monthly statistics and crime and prevention updates with neighbors.  Woodland Heights is 1 of the 10 neighborhoods under Sgt. Scarlett's purview. 

Other business at the Nov. meeting included passing 6 of the 8 proposed bylaw amendments. 
At the end of the meeting, neighbors wished each other a Happy Thanksgiving and left the meeting with quite a bit of knowledge about the past and present of Woodland Heights. 



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This post typed by Phil.

The Woodland Heights Organization (WHO) is the neighborhood association recognized by the city of Des Moines representing Woodland Heights.  Its purpose is is to stabilize, preserve, and revitalize area homes, enhance the quality of life in the neighborhood, and to promote community within our neighborhood amongst all residents and businesses.  WHO is a volunteer organization.

for more information email who50312@gmail.com; view past issues of the email newsletter and subscribe at bit.ly/whoemail; like us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/whodesmoines

WHO featured in local magazine

The Woodland Heights Organization received local media coverage for its newly completed monument sign.

Clip of the November 2019 edition of the
Des Moines Westside Living Magazine

Page 18 of the November 2019 edition of the monthly, Des Moines Westside Living Magazine featured a full-page story on the newly constructed neighborhood sign. 

Read the full edition online here
http://www.dmcityview.com/DesMoinesWestNovember2019/html5/index.html?page=1&noflash

Tammy Pearson's feature recounted the years of planning and executing the project, the sponsorships, and the October 2019 celebration at the sign.  2 pictures are included.



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This post typed by Phil.

The Woodland Heights Organization (WHO) is the neighborhood association recognized by the city of Des Moines representing Woodland Heights.  Its purpose is is to stabilize, preserve, and revitalize area homes, enhance the quality of life in the neighborhood, and to promote community within our neighborhood amongst all residents and businesses.  WHO is a volunteer organization.

for more information email who50312@gmail.com; view past issues of the email newsletter and subscribe at bit.ly/whoemail; like us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/whodesmoines

Sign dedicated, big meeting held, and history supported in October

The Woodland Heights Organization held a ribbon cutting and dedication ceremony for the new, neighborhood monument sign on October 9, 2019

Woodland Heights Neighborhood sign ribbon cutting
near MLK & Cottage Grove Oct. 9, 2019

Representatives from the neighborhood, the city, police, business, and community were in attendance to celebrate and show support. Several businesses donated food for a social lunch following the dedication and ribbon cutting. The duration of the project was over 3 years, with final completion occurring in June 2019.

Many people, businesses, and bodies were thanked during the dedicating remarks. This dream would not have become reality without Two Rivers Bank & Trust; Polk County Board of Supervisors (particularly former supervisor, John Mauro); Christine Hensley, retired Des Moines City Council Member; Chris Johansen, city Community Development Director; Alan VanGundy, Simonson Architects; Jensen Builders, General Contractor; Jim Bouma, Fast Signs; Gabe Kauffman, Landscape Lighting Design; and Doug McBride, Woodland Heights Organization project champion and supervisor.

The WHO October monthly meeting was held Tuesday, October 15, 2019. A few things of note occurred at the meeting including hearing from city council and mayoral candidates, a bonus during the NBSD report, and time with a state legislator.

State Senator, Claire Celsi on her pre-legislative-session-listening-tour
at the Woodland Heights Org. monthly meeting Oct. 15, 2019

State Senator, Claire Celsi was a scheduled guest at the meeting, speaking with and listening to Woodland Heights neighbors as part of her district listening tour ahead of the 2020 legislative session which begins in January at the capitol.

DMPD's Sgt. Paul Parizek shares info about WatchDSM with
Sgt. Yanira Scarlett during the WHO meeting Oct. 15, 2019

DMPD Public Information Officer, Sgt. Paul Parizek joined Sgt. Scarlett during the NBSD report at the October meeting. Parezek brought information about the WatchDSM program. This is a community camera program where neighbors can volunteer their camera systems and footage for police review. Parizek stressed that the program is voluntary, protects privacy, and neighbors can turn down video requests at any time. DMPD will not have access to cameras, only registrants’ contact information to inquire about any useful video. Learn more at (dsm.city/watchdsm).

Sgt. Scarlett addressed crime reports, but noted that multiple burglaries that showed up on the crime map did not end up becoming true burglary cases.

Information from Des Moines Historical Society and Des Moines Screetcar Friends

Earlier this month the WHO Board voted to support community efforts to obtain a historic designation for the Des Moines Streetcar turnaround site near 49th Street and University Avenue. This location is not in Woodland Heights, but the board recognized the historical significance streetcars played in the creation and vibrancy of our neighborhood. A trolley barn was previously a prominent feature of the neighborhood at Ingersoll and 24th.





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This post typed by Phil.

The Woodland Heights Organization (WHO) is the neighborhood association recognized by the city of Des Moines representing Woodland Heights.  Its purpose is is to stabilize, preserve, and revitalize area homes, enhance the quality of life in the neighborhood, and to promote community within our neighborhood amongst all residents and businesses.  WHO is a volunteer organization.

for more information email who50312@gmail.com; view past issues of the email newsletter and subscribe at bit.ly/whoemail; like us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/whodesmoines

Inspections, neighborhood projects, and muni candidates at September WHO meeting

The September monthly meeting of the Woodland Heights Organization featured many guests and several exciting announcements and updates.

Woodland Heights Neighborhood monument sign on MLK
near Cottage grove after completion in June 2019

Wednesday, October 9 at 12:15 pm will be the ribbon cutting event, celebrating the completion of the neighborhood monument sign. The sign is located near the intersection of MLK and Cottage Grove. Event parking available in the St. Ambrose Cemetery (enter Woodland Cemetery at entrance and drive North) and on Olive Street.

The monthly WHO meeting, held September 17 at Scottish Rite Park started with the regular welcome and updates from the Welcome Wagon Committee. Then Doug shared info about the monument sign ribbon cutting, Chamberlain Park project, and working with the city on reconstructing the flower garden at 24th and Center St.

City of Des Moines, Neighborhood Inspections Supervisor, Chris Heilskov
speaks to the WHO members September 17, 2019

City of Des Moines Neighborhood Inspections Supervisor, Chris Heilskov brought data to update the WHO on inspections cases open, ongoing, and closed within the neighborhood. There has been some notable progress and we should see some more soon (including removal of gravel and parking in right-of-way area). More hires will be made soon within the inspections department as the budget has increased with new LOSST dollars.

2019 is an election year. Municipal elections in Iowa take place on Tuesday, November 5. Eleven candidates have filed to run for either DM Mayor or an At-Large seat on the DM City Council. Candidates have been invited to introduce themselves to the WHO. Four candidates did that on September 17: candidate for Mayor, Joe Grandanette, and 3 candidates for the At-Large seat: Carl Voss, Shelia Knoploh-Odole, and Ethan Standard. Expect to meet additional candidates at the October monthly WHO meeting 10/15.

Also in attendance in September was sitting DM City Council member, Connie Boesen. To close the meeting should shared updates about the Zoning Code changes and took a couple questions from meeting attendees.

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This post typed by Phil.

The Woodland Heights Organization (WHO) is the neighborhood association recognized by the city of Des Moines representing Woodland Heights.  Its purpose is is to stabilize, preserve, and revitalize area homes, enhance the quality of life in the neighborhood, and to promote community within our neighborhood amongst all residents and businesses.  WHO is a volunteer organization.

for more information email who50312@gmail.com; view past issues of the email newsletter and subscribe at bit.ly/whoemail; like us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/whodesmoines

Schooled at August 2019 WHO meeting

Attendees to the August 20, 2019 Woodland Heights Organization monthly meeting were taken to class.

Callanan Middle School Associate Principal, Ryan Daugherty
speaks to the Woodland Heights Organization August 20, 2019

The meeting's featured guest was one of the Associate Principals from Callanan Middle School, a prominent structure in the Woodland Heights Neighborhood.  Associate Principal, Ryan Daugherty is starting his 6th year as an administrator at Callanan.  He's seen growth in the student population every school year.  Mr. Daugherty shared some of the practices they've implemented at the school, their focus on teaching for jobs that have yet to be envisioned, and things like conative learning (thinking about the 'why' and being purposeful).  Mr. Daugherty also shared some logistical things like dealing with after-school traffic congestion between 3:25 and 3:40 pm.
For more information on Callanan you can visit their website.
All volunteer information is centrally located at the Volunteer page of the DMPS website. 

WHO Board Member William Strong shares
Safety & Inspections Committee update August 20, 2019

Other business conducted during the August meeting included a recap of National Night Out, including feedback for how to improve the event in future years.  A reimbursement request was passed for some of the supplies purchased for the event.

Welcome Wagon Committee's Kirsten
shares welcome and updates August 20, 2019

There were a couple new things that occurred during the August WHO monthly meeting, including using a different side of the meeting room than typical, and starting the meeting with a welcome and update from the Welcome Wagon.

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This post typed by Phil.

The Woodland Heights Organization (WHO) is the neighborhood association recognized by the city of Des Moines representing Woodland Heights.  Its purpose is is to stabilize, preserve, and revitalize area homes, enhance the quality of life in the neighborhood, and to promote community within our neighborhood amongst all residents and businesses.  WHO is a volunteer organization.

for more information email who50312@gmail.com; view past issues of the email newsletter and subscribe at bit.ly/whoemail; like us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/whodesmoines

2019 NNO event a great success

The Woodland Heights Organization hosted one of many National Night Out events throughout the city of Des Moines, the metro, and the nation on Tuesday, August 6, 2019.  These nation-wide events are held on the first Tuesday in August and is a "... community-building campaign that promotes police-community partnerships and neighborhood camaraderie to make our neighborhoods safer, more caring places to live.  National Night Out enhances the relationship between neighbors and law enforcement while bringing back a true sense of community.  Furthermore, it provides a great opportunity to bring police and neighbors together under positive circumstances." (source: https://natw.org/about/)

Woodland Heights National Night Out @ Chamberlain Park
Tue. August 6, 2019

Thank you to the generous business sponsored who donated much of the food and drink for the evening picnic:
Price Chopper – 3425 Ingersoll Ave.
Gateway Market – 2002 Woodland Ave.
Hy-Vee – 4605 Fleur Dr.
Subway – 3030 Ingersoll Ave.
Bauder’s Ice Cream – 3802 Ingersoll Ave.
Palmer’s Deli & Market – 2843 Ingersoll Ave.
Scottish Rite Park – 2909 Woodland Ave.
Easy Go Conoco – 2723 Grand Ave.
Doug McBride PhotoCinema – 716 26th St.
Teddy Maroon’s – 2301 Ingersoll Ave.

And thank you to the numerous neighborhood volunteers who made the event happen.

More photos can be found at the WHO Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/pg/whodesmoines/photos/?tab=album&album_id=2440471862668205

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This post typed by Phil.

The Woodland Heights Organization (WHO) is the neighborhood association recognized by the city of Des Moines representing Woodland Heights.  Its purpose is is to stabilize, preserve, and revitalize area homes, enhance the quality of life in the neighborhood, and to promote community within our neighborhood amongst all residents and businesses.  WHO is a volunteer organization.

for more information email who50312@gmail.com; view past issues of the email newsletter and subscribe at bit.ly/whoemail; like us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/whodesmoines

2019 National Night Out, Tue. Aug. 6

The 2019 Woodland Heights National Night Out event will be Tuesday, August 6.

This annual tradition occurs the first Tuesday in August.
The WHO event this year will be:
Tue. Aug. 6
5:30 - 7:30 pm
Chamberlain Park (2150 Woodland Ave.)

Free parking available at Freedom Financial Bank (corner of Woodland & MLK)
The Woodland Heights Organization will be grilling hot dogs and be providing side dishes and dessert.  Come hungry.  Feel free to bring your own lawn chair and picnic blanket.  Bring the kids.  This family-friendly event will feature sidewalk chalk and several other activities for children to enjoy.  Adults can take part in a raffle drawing for a gift card to a local business.  DMPD Officers and Des Moines Fire Department Firefighters and equipment have been invited and plan to participate (as they are able).

NNO is a great opportunity for neighbors to interact with local police and fire fighters in a positive, community-building setting.

FB event link

Center Street & High Street focus of July WHO meeting

"The Center Street Story: An Urban Renewal Retrospective" was the first topic on the agenda of the July 16, 2019 Woodland Heights Organization monthly meeting.

Madison DeShay previews a documentary about Center Street
at the July 16, 2019 WHO meeting

The documentary project of Community Legacy Matters Inc. tells the story of a thriving African American business and residential district in Des Moines in the first half of the 20th century.  Interstate 235 and 1950s urban renewal forever changed that community.  Project Director, Madison DeShay spoke to Woodland Heights neighbors about the work being done to complete this documentary to preserve and share the story of Center Street. 

NBSD officer, Sgt. Scarlett shares the latest incident data as part
of the NBSD report at the July 16, 2019 WHO monthly meeting

After some new business and updates on the National Night Out event (coming up Tue. Aug. 6), the regular NBSD report, and the featured guest, the meeting's main event started: hearing from a developer about potential development on High Street and getting feedback from residents about the proposal.

Ryan Francios of Rally Cap Properties shares info about rezoning
as part of a potential development along High Street July 16, 2019.

The Rally Cap proposal included rezoning property from “R1-60” One-Family Low-Density Residential District to “NPC” Neighborhood Pedestrian Commercial District to allow for development of a 5-unit, 3-story, live-work, rowhouse dwelling.  Many neighbors expressed concerns about business encroachment into the neighborhood as well as traffic and parking issues.  Other neighbors commented about the step the development could provide between Ingersoll commerce and residences further North.
Ultimately the developer decided to pull this item from the July 18 P&Z agenda so no vote was taken at the WHO meeting.

Thanks everyone for the high interest, the vigorous discussion, and the patience given during the long meeting. 
See the calendar page of this weblog for all the upcoming events and meetings. 

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This post typed by Phil.

The Woodland Heights Organization (WHO) is the neighborhood association recognized by the city of Des Moines representing Woodland Heights.  Its purpose is is to stabilize, preserve, and revitalize area homes, enhance the quality of life in the neighborhood, and to promote community within our neighborhood amongst all residents and businesses.  WHO is a volunteer organization.

for more information email who50312@gmail.com; view past issues of the email newsletter and subscribe at bit.ly/whoemail; like us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/whodesmoines

County Supervisor & Mayor address June meeting

The June monthly meeting of the Woodland Heights Organization was held June 18, 2019 at Scottish Rite Park.  2 main guests and 1 other presentation made up the bulk of the meeting.

Polk County Supervisor, District 5, Matt McCoy address
the Woodland Heights Organization June 18, 2019

Polk County Supervisor, Matt McCoy (representing District 5) was the featured guest on the agenda.  Supervisor McCoy reviewed his activities with the Neighborhood Finance Corporation (NFC) Board, the water trails, Woodland Cemetery, partnering with the City of Des Moines on home improvements, and more.  McCoy had lots of data from CZB and other sources including stats on poverty and housing (including that 40,000 properties are in substandard or poor condition).  McCoy expressed his passion for established neighborhoods, connecting strong cities to a strong County.

Des Moines Mayor, Frank Cownie speaks with
Woodland Heights neighbors June 18, 2019

Des Moines Mayor, Frank Cownie, stopped into the meeting with NBSD Lieutenant, Larry Davey.  Cownie's primary message was thanking residents for their support of the Local Option Sales and Service (LOSST) Tax vote earlier this year.  Cownie mentioned many of the ways that money is being put to use, including the 'blitz on blight'.  Davey addressed local narcotics concerns. 

Woodland Heights neighbors present June 18, 2019
on recent Civil & Human Rights Symposium

A presentation focused on social progress, economic progress, judicial progress, and more, under the umbrella of equity for all was made at the June WHO meeting.  More info can be found at the Des Moines Civil & Human Rights Commission website.  Other resources mentioned included:  Community of Racial Equity (CORE), and Showing Up for Racial Justice (SURJ).

Other business conducted at the meeting included approving spending for National Night Out signage, and approving spending for Des Moines Neighbors annual membership renewal.  Reports were made on traffic and NBSD issues.

Mark you calendars and spread the word about National Night Out.  The Woodland Heights neighborhood will be hosting an event Tuesday, August 6 starting at 5:30 pm in Chamberlain Park.  Find more information on Facebook. 

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This post typed by Phil.

The Woodland Heights Organization (WHO) is the neighborhood association recognized by the city of Des Moines representing Woodland Heights.  Its purpose is is to stabilize, preserve, and revitalize area homes, enhance the quality of life in the neighborhood, and to promote community within our neighborhood amongst all residents and businesses.  WHO is a volunteer organization.

for more information email who50312@gmail.com; view past issues of the email newsletter and subscribe at bit.ly/whoemail; like us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/whodesmoines

Inspections update at May meeting

The May 21, 2019 monthly meeting of the Woodland Heights Organization (WHO) featured 1 main guest, before the regular NBSD report, some new business, and regular reports.

City of Des Moines Neighborhood Inspector Supervisor, Chris Heilskov
shares NID information at the May 21, 2019 WHO meeting

Chris Heilskov, a Neighborhood Inspector Supervisor at the City of Des Moines, updated Woodland Heights neighbors about the current status and operations of Community Development's NID and what neighbors can expect in the near future.
Heilskov has 2 peer Inspector Supervisors (total of 3 citywide) who oversee 17 inspectors (designated to different zones within the city (Chris presented a map of the different zones).
Heilskov addressed the budget changes that will be coming with the 1% Local Option Sales and Service Tax (LOSST) that will go into effect July 1. 
One of several interesting stats was that as of 5/21 there were 128 open inspections cases within the boundaries of Woodland Heights. 
Look for more info about inspection at the June 18 WHO meeting where our neighborhood inspector is planning on giving meeting attendees further updates on his work within Woodland Heights.

Other meeting highlights included the NBSD report, presented by Officer Scarlett (DMPD), some discussion of traffic issues during New Business, and reports on WHO committees, the monument sign (near MLK and Cottage Grove), and more.
Find the full minutes on the 'Calendar' section of this weblog.

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This post typed by Phil.

The Woodland Heights Organization (WHO) is the neighborhood association recognized by the city of Des Moines representing Woodland Heights.  Its purpose is is to stabilize, preserve, and revitalize area homes, enhance the quality of life in the neighborhood, and to promote community within our neighborhood amongst all residents and businesses.  WHO is a volunteer organization.

for more information email who50312@gmail.com; view past issues of the email newsletter and subscribe at bit.ly/whoemail; like us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/whodesmoines

3 Guests Visit WHO

Three guests spoke with Woodland Heights neighbors during the April monthly WHO meeting, held 4/16/19 at Scottish Rite Park.

John Woolson of City of Des Moines Parks & Rec speaks
with Woodland Heights Neighbors April 16, 2019

First, John Woolson, Cemetery Operations Supervisor with City of Des Moines Parks & Rec updated meeting attendees with the latest news about Woodland Cemetery.  Notable, was Woolson sharing copies of Park & Rec's Spring/Summer 2019 Program Guide. 

At-Large City Council Member, Connie Boesen
addresses the WHO April 16, 2019

Second, DM City Council At-Large Member, Connie Boesen spoke with attendees.  Some things she brought up included plans for the Local Option Sales and Service Tax (LOSST) revenue the city will be receiving as well as property assessments and property tax. 

Jo Oldson, State Representative, Iowa House Dist. 41
speaks with WHO constituents April 16, 2019

Third, coming to the WHO meeting straight from debate on the floor of the Iowa House of Representatives, State Rep Jo Oldson updated neighbors on the General Assembly, specifically addressing some local control issues.

Other meeting highlights included the regular NBSD report, a motion on traffic issues on High Street, and updates on the WHO committees and ongoing projects.

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This post typed by Phil.

The Woodland Heights Organization (WHO) is the neighborhood association recognized by the city of Des Moines representing Woodland Heights.  Its purpose is is to stabilize, preserve, and revitalize area homes, enhance the quality of life in the neighborhood, and to promote community within our neighborhood amongst all residents and businesses.  WHO is a volunteer organization.

for more information email who50312@gmail.com; view past issues of the email newsletter and subscribe at bit.ly/whoemail; like us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/whodesmoines

New Board elected at WHO annual meeting

The Woodland Heights Organization (WHO) held its annual meeting during its March monthly meeting, held at Scottish Rite Park.

State Senator Claire Celsi (D-Sen. Dist. 21)
addresses the WHO meeting attendees March 19, 2019

The meeting began with brief remarks from State Senator Claire Celsi (who represents Woodland Heights and other parts of the West side of Des Moines and parts of West Des Moines).  Senator Celsi noted that she is available for constituent questions and requests for assistance with state-level issues. 

NBSD Officer, Sgt. Scarlett reviews the monthly incident
report with attendees at the March 19, 2019 WHO meeting

As usual, Neighborhood-Based-Service-Delivery (NBSD) officer with the DMPD, Sergeant Scarlett reported on incidents and crime reports in the neighborhood.  She also followed up on traffic concerns around Ingersoll, High, 23rd, and 24th.

WHO Board of Directors, elected at the annual meeting March 19, 2019

The main item of business at the meeting was elections to the Board of Directors.  The following candidates were elected to serve for a term of 1 year:
President - Phil Kreznor
Vice President - William Strong
Secretary - Jeanne Astor
Treasurer - Ben Berger
(3) At-Large - Lyla Dozier, Ryan Francois, and Carol Lewis

After the election, the new leaders took time to listen to neighbors in attendance and hear what they had to say.  Attendees shared their thoughts, ideas, hopes, and concerns about the neighborhood. Here’s some of what they said:

1. Some like the educational opportunities provided at the monthly meetings.
2. Many want a safe community, and want the organization to help ensure safety.
3. An attendee who has been with the organization a long time, thinks it's great to see younger people get involved. Neighbors should call or otherwise contact leaders of the organization to let people know what’s going on. And also be encouraged to call city leaders like Councilman Josh Mandelbaum.
4. Some newer folks are looking forward to getting to know more about the neighborhood… both the good and the bad.
5. Some people are still here after all these years.
6. Some attendees enjoyed observing the proceedings.
7. Many were ready to be done with this tough Winter.
8. Several brought up communication, maybe focusing on door-to-door neighbor engagement to spread the word about the Woodland Heights Organization.
9. One neighbor will soon be celebrating 50 years or living in the neighborhood.
10. Some folks also work in the neighborhood. They want people feel welcome and safe. And want home values to stay strong. And have good architecture for new construction and rehabs. They want to see continued investment in the neighborhood and connections strengthened with commercial, business, and Ingersoll. Have more dialogue between residents and business.
11. Organization leaders are excited to help out and want to be accessible to membership.
12. Some think the neighborhood is great it’s interesting to see how the organization works.

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This post typed by Phil.

The Woodland Heights Organization (WHO) is the neighborhood association recognized by the city of Des Moines representing Woodland Heights.  Its purpose is is to stabilize, preserve, and revitalize area homes, enhance the quality of life in the neighborhood, and to promote community within our neighborhood amongst all residents and businesses.  WHO is a volunteer organization.

for more information email who50312@gmail.com; view past issues of the email newsletter and subscribe at bit.ly/whoemail; like us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/whodesmoines

Neighborhood kicks off 2019 with cookies, social

The Woodland Heights Organization held a social event Tuesday, January 15, 2019 to kick off the new year.  The New Year Cookie (& Dessert) Kickoff was held at Scottish Rite Park.  Neighbors brought desserts to share potluck-style and Scottish Rite Park generously donated coffee.

Woodland Heights neighbors enjoy treats and socializing during the WHO 2019 New Year Cookie Kickoff Jan. 15, 2019

In addition to catching up with neighbors and friends, attendees were invited to participate in a Bingo game to help introduce themselves and get to know others.  Neighbors completing a Bingo not only learned about each other, but also won prizes donated by WHO Board members.

The only business conducted during the meeting was the selection of 3 people to serve on the temporary Nominating Committee, tasked with presenting the slate of candidates for the WHO Board of Directors election at the March 19, 2019 WHO Annual Meeting.

Toward the end of the evening, Des Moines City Council member, Josh Mandelbaum addressed the gathering.

Ward 3 Des Moines City Council Member, Josh Mandelbaum, encourages neighbors to support the LOSST during the January 2019 Woodland Heights social event

Mandelbaum spoke about recent developments with the city including presenting Des Moines voters the opportunity to pass or fail a 1% Local Option Sales and Service Tax (LOSST).  Mandelbaum spoke in favor of this tax on purchases that will both provide property tax relief and provide Des Moines and new revenue stream to fund city services.  The election will be held Tuesday, March 5. 

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This post typed by Phil.

The Woodland Heights Organization (WHO) is the neighborhood association recognized by the city of Des Moines representing Woodland Heights.  Its purpose is is to stabilize, preserve, and revitalize area homes, enhance the quality of life in the neighborhood, and to promote community within our neighborhood amongst all residents and businesses.  WHO is a volunteer organization.

for more information email who50312@gmail.com; view past issues of the email newsletter and subscribe at bit.ly/whoemail; like us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/whodesmoines