Thursday, February 7, 2013

EGWC Meeting Minutes from 1/17/2013


EAST GATEWAY COALITION

MINUTES

JANUARY 17, 2013

The  meeting was called to order at 6:45 by President Roger Mickelson, who then introduced guests  Commander Kevin Rowe, APD Foothills Area; Doug Lutz from the Mayor’s office; Darrell Dady, Bernalillo County Neighborhood Coordination Specialist; and David Walker.  David Robbins, APS School Board Member, arrived a bit later.

Commander Rowe noted the Foothills Area is doing well as far as crime prevention is concerned.  He noted that officer shifts have been somewhat altered, with some overlap to increase response, which he feels is helping in deterring crime somewhat.  He stated the officers have adopted the slogan:  “One for All and All for One”.  He again noted that it is important for residents to call APD when they are concerned about or feel they see anything amiss in their neighborhoods.  The more calls the police receive the more officers can be stationed in the area.  He noted a recent crime “cleanup” in the Singing Arrow area.  The department is starting a youth program in the area, and he cited that he has an “open door” policy and welcomed anyone to visit him. 

The President noted that there was not a quorum present and that the election for President and Secretary would be handled via e-mail. 

Dave Robbins, APS school board member representing District 6 was then introduced.  Mr. Robbins noted that APS has a 368 million dollar bond issue to be voted on at the upcoming election.  He said the average age of APS schools is forty years old, with many being over 50 years old.  Consequently many need refurbishing or rebuilding.  He noted there is a need for certified police protection.  He commented on the low graduation level of the schools in the area, and also noted that 60-65% of the children live in poverty and do not have access to what school children in other states do.  There are many unexcused absences. The area has 58 licensed charter schools.  He said he could be contacted at Robbins_d@APS.edu.

President Mickelson then introduced Dave Walker.  Mr. Walker noted that he is with a coalition which “is not pleased with the way APS is not educating our children”.  He stated the system does not want input from others and that school board elections are supposed to be non-partisan.  He said the state spends most of its funds on education in some form or other, and noted the legislature has still not confirmed the person appointed as Secretary of Education.  He asserted that the School Superintendent is out of touch with the community.  He reiterated that graduation rates are at the bottom of all other states.  He also stated the board needs fresh ideas, community involvement, and better money management. 

The meeting was adjourned at 8:15.