Tuesday, February 28, 2012
Monday, February 27, 2012
February Meeting Minutes
Members of Sunny Beach Neighborhood (SBN) met from 11 a.m. to about 1 p.m. on February 18, 2012, to elect new officers and discuss neighborhood issues. The meeting was hosted by Andrew Kazanas at 11220 Bernice Dr. The agenda was presented by Anne Billings, secretary.
In attendance were:
Billings, Bruce and Anne
DeMichele, Eliza
Empey, Tom and Gerri
Giebelhaus, Kathe
Harrington, Kay
Kazanas, Andrew
Lewis, Julia
Shorman, Judy
Represented by written input or proxy:
Binkley, Ron
Meason, Jesse
Pellegrini, John & Peggy
Thank you, Judy Shorman, who brought specially decorated cookies, cupcakes and smiley face gifts to celebrate Sunny Beach. Thank you, too, to Julia and Robert Lewis for delicious fresh fruit for our meeting; to Anne Billings for coffee and juice; and to Andrew Kazanas for letting us meet in his house.
Election of President/SBN Officers
A proposal was passed to stagger the terms of officers, beginning as follows: next president (2012-13), next secretary (2013-14) and next treasurer (2014-15).
Judy Shorman volunteered to serve as president and was elected with unanimous approval.
Anne Billings will continue during 2012 as secretary. Eliza DeMichele volunteered Judy DeMichele, her mother, and herself to follow as co-secretaries for 2013-14. Bruce Billings will continue as treasurer through 2013.
Anne presented Tom Empey with a painted sun face (just like the ones on our neighborhood sign) as a token of appreciation from the entire neighborhood for all he, Gerri and their family have done for Sunny Beach for more than a decade.
New Neighbors
Anne Billings explained she had not published a new Sunny Beach directory in 2011 due to the great number of ownership changes. She handed out copies of a new chart of properties with phone and address information to those present. It was reviewed and edited by those present for accuracy (a pdf copy of this will be sent to everyone soon).
She reported the following new neighbors since the Spring 2011 SBN meeting:
11200 Bernice Dr. – Pamela Franks (resides at Sunny Beach)
11208 Bernice Dr. – Dennis & Diana Denkeler of Diana, TX
11211 Bernice Dr. – Judy Shorman of Addison, TX (hoping to move to Galveston eventually)
11214 Bernice Dr. – Eliza & Judy DeMichele or Houston, TX
11221 Beard Dr. – Ann McIver (rents Laura Prida home)
11205 Reagor Way – Liz Vanderhider of Houston, TX
11218 Reagor Way – Ken Poe (Janice Iden home)
Treasurer’s Report
Bank Account and Expenses
Bruce Billings reported a checking account balance of $1,119.66 as of 1/31/12, with two bills outstanding that total $172.51 (purchase of three sun faces $162.38 + photocopies for meeting $10.13). He indicated we needed to raise dues to meet expenses. Recurring expenses paid by SBN include $275 WGIPOA annual dues, $50 annual use fee for dune walkover east end of neighborhood (removed by Hurricane Ike but we are keeping); and $32.40 per month to have the lot with our neighborhood sign mowed. New expenses voted this meeting are: $500 to WGIPOA for ERP survey participation (see “West End Erosion Survey Participation” below) and $175–$200 for five security signs (see “Neighborhood Security” below).
West End Erosion Survey Participation
Bruce reported on a survey that the West Galveston Island Property Owners Assn. (WGIPOA) wants west end neighborhoods to help fund annually to provide data in determining erosion setbacks – that is independent to that of the Galveston Planning Commission for its Erosion Response Plan (ERP) required by the state. The WGIPOA estimates its survey costs at $20,000 annually and has asked property owner associations to contribute “a minimum of $1,000 or whatever you can appropriate.”
After discussion, it was proposed and passed that Sunny Beach Neighborhood vote each year whether to contribute to annual surveys and how much, and that this year we would contribute $500 toward the WGIPOA survey (Our contribution is from SBN’s account made up of dues. Individual property owners can make their own donation toward the survey if they like.)
Membership Dues
A proposal was made and passed that we increase our SBN membership dues to $50 per household annually. (Statements for dues at the new amount have been sent and are now due. Make payment to “Sunny Beach Neighborhood” c/o Bruce Billings, 7373 Blairview Dr., Dallas, TX 75230. Questions: contact Bruce at 469-232-0411 or thebilltender@tx.rr.com.)
Tribute to Empeys
A fund has been established to collect contributions toward purchasing a good size palm tree (or trees) and marker that will be a living tribute to the Empey family in Sunny Beach Neighborhood. Payments can be sent to Bruce along with neighborhood dues and will be set aside for future use.
SBN Issues
Beach Bollards
Tom Empey reported that moving the bollards defining beach parking from in front of Sunny Beach properties to a position in front of undeveloped land to the west of 8 Mile Road has been requested, and that we should have an answer “within the next month.”
Neighborhood Security
Andrew Kazanas related his frustration at being the most recent victim of a break-in/burglary at the house we were meeting in. Besides TVs, the robbers stole three chairs, including a large recliner from the third floor.
Judy Shorman reported that Mark Miller has installed a security camera on the house at 11226 Garfield Way that will be able to capture images of traffic on 8 Mile Road. She stressed the importance of communication and knowing our fellow neighbors. If anyone looks “out of place,” please communicate immediately with the property owner in question and/or with the Galveston police.
Anne Billings relayed a suggestion by Ron Binkley that we add some sort of physical barrier, such as a fence, along the east side of 8 Mile Road to define and secure our neighborhood. Following discussion of the costs and difficulties of implementing this, it was proposed and passed that we purchase five small signs that say the neighborhood is under surveillance with SBN funds (est. cost approx. $35 each) and add them to each street entrance. Judy Shorman volunteered to have the signs made, and Tom Empey volunteered to install them.
Judy Shorman, Mark Miller and Ron Binkley, in addition to securing City of Galveston cooperation, paid for and had constructed a sand fence in front of properties fronting the beach. The entire neighborhood will benefit from dune growth and the added security this will provide.
Neighborhood Sign
Gerri Empey reported that the corner lot on which our sign stands had changed ownership, but that we had the new owner’s approval to keep the sign on it.
The Billings purchased two more pottery sun faces (these are brightly painted) to replace the ones stolen from our neighborhood sign. Tom Empey volunteered to put them on the sign. (He did this the next day with the assistance of Kathe Giebelhaus – both of whom were cheered on by the Billings.)
Bruce Billings reported it would cost about $500 per light to purchase the type of powerful solar lighting used commercially. After discussion about possible annoyance at night of strong light on the sign to nearby houses vs. creating better neighborhood identity and enhancement of property values, we agreed to table the matter of lighting our sign until it is determined whether the flashing light on FM 3005 will be brought back (Gerri volunteered to investigate more on this).
Sewers and Streets
The City’s plans to put in a sewer system and pave streets at Sunny Beach are for 2013. Homes on septic systems will not be required to connect to the new system unless or until there is a problem with their system.
Permit to Rake Seaweed on Beach
We decided not to have the seaweed raked at Sunny Beach. Discussion concerned how seaweed helps to build the dune as well as provides some deterrent to beach crowds.
Final Hurricane Ike Repairs
Two houses – one at 11224 Garfield Way and the other at 11214 Schwartz – remain boarded up and seemingly abandoned since Ike. A letter written on behalf of our neighborhood by Terry Burkett to Lam Nguyen concerning the Garfield Way house was read and approved with minor changes (the letter already has generated response from Lam, who says repairs will be made soon). There is some doubt as to who actually owns the Schwartz property. This was discussed with no action taken.
The Sunny Beach Blog
Tom Empey reminded us that we have an Internet blog for posting neighborhood news, photos, comments, etc. (go to http://sunnybeachneighborhood.blogspot.com). He would like to turn maintenance of the blog over to someone else. Please contact Tom about helping with this at 409-789-2297 or tempey@comcast.net.
New Business
March 8 Meeting on ERP
An extremely important Galveston City Council meeting to review and possibly approve of the proposed beach Erosion Response Plan (ERP) is March 8, at 4 p.m. at City Hall on 25th street. If the ERP proceeds as is, it could mean half of Sunny Beach is not protected. Houses on both sides of Bernice Dr. would potentially not be allowed repairs or construction.
Members representing WGIPOA plan to meet with the mayor and City Council members prior to the City Council meeting to advise of the possible impact the ERP could have on property values and to request that the City to drop from the ERP the following:
• No setbacks
• Platted properties are exempt
• Perform a ground survey each year in May with the payment coming from the 4B sales tax
• Establish the line of vegetation from the 200 MLT point
• Encourage building a continuous dune system
• Update the ERP every 5 years using ground surveys
Our new president, Judy Shorman, is unable to be in Galveston on March 8. Julia Lewis plans to attend and will speak on our behalf. Tom Empey also plans to attend. Please try to be at this meeting for our neighborhood if you can.
Our next SBN meeting
Our next meeting will be in April or May, a date to be announced. If you have something you would like to put on the meeting agenda, please e-mail to Judy at shormanj@aol.com or to Anne at adavisbillings@tx.rr.com.
Sunny Beach Neighborhood is an unincorporated nonprofit organization established to enhance the common interests of Sunny Beach. Participation is completely voluntary. Your support with dues and with taking an active part in our neighborhood is important; please be involved!
In attendance were:
Billings, Bruce and Anne
DeMichele, Eliza
Empey, Tom and Gerri
Giebelhaus, Kathe
Harrington, Kay
Kazanas, Andrew
Lewis, Julia
Shorman, Judy
Represented by written input or proxy:
Binkley, Ron
Meason, Jesse
Pellegrini, John & Peggy
Thank you, Judy Shorman, who brought specially decorated cookies, cupcakes and smiley face gifts to celebrate Sunny Beach. Thank you, too, to Julia and Robert Lewis for delicious fresh fruit for our meeting; to Anne Billings for coffee and juice; and to Andrew Kazanas for letting us meet in his house.
Election of President/SBN Officers
A proposal was passed to stagger the terms of officers, beginning as follows: next president (2012-13), next secretary (2013-14) and next treasurer (2014-15).
Judy Shorman volunteered to serve as president and was elected with unanimous approval.
Anne Billings will continue during 2012 as secretary. Eliza DeMichele volunteered Judy DeMichele, her mother, and herself to follow as co-secretaries for 2013-14. Bruce Billings will continue as treasurer through 2013.
Anne presented Tom Empey with a painted sun face (just like the ones on our neighborhood sign) as a token of appreciation from the entire neighborhood for all he, Gerri and their family have done for Sunny Beach for more than a decade.
New Neighbors
Anne Billings explained she had not published a new Sunny Beach directory in 2011 due to the great number of ownership changes. She handed out copies of a new chart of properties with phone and address information to those present. It was reviewed and edited by those present for accuracy (a pdf copy of this will be sent to everyone soon).
She reported the following new neighbors since the Spring 2011 SBN meeting:
11200 Bernice Dr. – Pamela Franks (resides at Sunny Beach)
11208 Bernice Dr. – Dennis & Diana Denkeler of Diana, TX
11211 Bernice Dr. – Judy Shorman of Addison, TX (hoping to move to Galveston eventually)
11214 Bernice Dr. – Eliza & Judy DeMichele or Houston, TX
11221 Beard Dr. – Ann McIver (rents Laura Prida home)
11205 Reagor Way – Liz Vanderhider of Houston, TX
11218 Reagor Way – Ken Poe (Janice Iden home)
Treasurer’s Report
Bank Account and Expenses
Bruce Billings reported a checking account balance of $1,119.66 as of 1/31/12, with two bills outstanding that total $172.51 (purchase of three sun faces $162.38 + photocopies for meeting $10.13). He indicated we needed to raise dues to meet expenses. Recurring expenses paid by SBN include $275 WGIPOA annual dues, $50 annual use fee for dune walkover east end of neighborhood (removed by Hurricane Ike but we are keeping); and $32.40 per month to have the lot with our neighborhood sign mowed. New expenses voted this meeting are: $500 to WGIPOA for ERP survey participation (see “West End Erosion Survey Participation” below) and $175–$200 for five security signs (see “Neighborhood Security” below).
West End Erosion Survey Participation
Bruce reported on a survey that the West Galveston Island Property Owners Assn. (WGIPOA) wants west end neighborhoods to help fund annually to provide data in determining erosion setbacks – that is independent to that of the Galveston Planning Commission for its Erosion Response Plan (ERP) required by the state. The WGIPOA estimates its survey costs at $20,000 annually and has asked property owner associations to contribute “a minimum of $1,000 or whatever you can appropriate.”
After discussion, it was proposed and passed that Sunny Beach Neighborhood vote each year whether to contribute to annual surveys and how much, and that this year we would contribute $500 toward the WGIPOA survey (Our contribution is from SBN’s account made up of dues. Individual property owners can make their own donation toward the survey if they like.)
Membership Dues
A proposal was made and passed that we increase our SBN membership dues to $50 per household annually. (Statements for dues at the new amount have been sent and are now due. Make payment to “Sunny Beach Neighborhood” c/o Bruce Billings, 7373 Blairview Dr., Dallas, TX 75230. Questions: contact Bruce at 469-232-0411 or thebilltender@tx.rr.com.)
Tribute to Empeys
A fund has been established to collect contributions toward purchasing a good size palm tree (or trees) and marker that will be a living tribute to the Empey family in Sunny Beach Neighborhood. Payments can be sent to Bruce along with neighborhood dues and will be set aside for future use.
SBN Issues
Beach Bollards
Tom Empey reported that moving the bollards defining beach parking from in front of Sunny Beach properties to a position in front of undeveloped land to the west of 8 Mile Road has been requested, and that we should have an answer “within the next month.”
Neighborhood Security
Andrew Kazanas related his frustration at being the most recent victim of a break-in/burglary at the house we were meeting in. Besides TVs, the robbers stole three chairs, including a large recliner from the third floor.
Judy Shorman reported that Mark Miller has installed a security camera on the house at 11226 Garfield Way that will be able to capture images of traffic on 8 Mile Road. She stressed the importance of communication and knowing our fellow neighbors. If anyone looks “out of place,” please communicate immediately with the property owner in question and/or with the Galveston police.
Anne Billings relayed a suggestion by Ron Binkley that we add some sort of physical barrier, such as a fence, along the east side of 8 Mile Road to define and secure our neighborhood. Following discussion of the costs and difficulties of implementing this, it was proposed and passed that we purchase five small signs that say the neighborhood is under surveillance with SBN funds (est. cost approx. $35 each) and add them to each street entrance. Judy Shorman volunteered to have the signs made, and Tom Empey volunteered to install them.
Judy Shorman, Mark Miller and Ron Binkley, in addition to securing City of Galveston cooperation, paid for and had constructed a sand fence in front of properties fronting the beach. The entire neighborhood will benefit from dune growth and the added security this will provide.
Neighborhood Sign
Gerri Empey reported that the corner lot on which our sign stands had changed ownership, but that we had the new owner’s approval to keep the sign on it.
The Billings purchased two more pottery sun faces (these are brightly painted) to replace the ones stolen from our neighborhood sign. Tom Empey volunteered to put them on the sign. (He did this the next day with the assistance of Kathe Giebelhaus – both of whom were cheered on by the Billings.)
Bruce Billings reported it would cost about $500 per light to purchase the type of powerful solar lighting used commercially. After discussion about possible annoyance at night of strong light on the sign to nearby houses vs. creating better neighborhood identity and enhancement of property values, we agreed to table the matter of lighting our sign until it is determined whether the flashing light on FM 3005 will be brought back (Gerri volunteered to investigate more on this).
Sewers and Streets
The City’s plans to put in a sewer system and pave streets at Sunny Beach are for 2013. Homes on septic systems will not be required to connect to the new system unless or until there is a problem with their system.
Permit to Rake Seaweed on Beach
We decided not to have the seaweed raked at Sunny Beach. Discussion concerned how seaweed helps to build the dune as well as provides some deterrent to beach crowds.
Final Hurricane Ike Repairs
Two houses – one at 11224 Garfield Way and the other at 11214 Schwartz – remain boarded up and seemingly abandoned since Ike. A letter written on behalf of our neighborhood by Terry Burkett to Lam Nguyen concerning the Garfield Way house was read and approved with minor changes (the letter already has generated response from Lam, who says repairs will be made soon). There is some doubt as to who actually owns the Schwartz property. This was discussed with no action taken.
The Sunny Beach Blog
Tom Empey reminded us that we have an Internet blog for posting neighborhood news, photos, comments, etc. (go to http://sunnybeachneighborhood.blogspot.com). He would like to turn maintenance of the blog over to someone else. Please contact Tom about helping with this at 409-789-2297 or tempey@comcast.net.
New Business
March 8 Meeting on ERP
An extremely important Galveston City Council meeting to review and possibly approve of the proposed beach Erosion Response Plan (ERP) is March 8, at 4 p.m. at City Hall on 25th street. If the ERP proceeds as is, it could mean half of Sunny Beach is not protected. Houses on both sides of Bernice Dr. would potentially not be allowed repairs or construction.
Members representing WGIPOA plan to meet with the mayor and City Council members prior to the City Council meeting to advise of the possible impact the ERP could have on property values and to request that the City to drop from the ERP the following:
• No setbacks
• Platted properties are exempt
• Perform a ground survey each year in May with the payment coming from the 4B sales tax
• Establish the line of vegetation from the 200 MLT point
• Encourage building a continuous dune system
• Update the ERP every 5 years using ground surveys
Our new president, Judy Shorman, is unable to be in Galveston on March 8. Julia Lewis plans to attend and will speak on our behalf. Tom Empey also plans to attend. Please try to be at this meeting for our neighborhood if you can.
Our next SBN meeting
Our next meeting will be in April or May, a date to be announced. If you have something you would like to put on the meeting agenda, please e-mail to Judy at shormanj@aol.com or to Anne at adavisbillings@tx.rr.com.
Sunny Beach Neighborhood is an unincorporated nonprofit organization established to enhance the common interests of Sunny Beach. Participation is completely voluntary. Your support with dues and with taking an active part in our neighborhood is important; please be involved!
Thursday, February 24, 2011
Sunny Beach Newsletter, March 2011
Sunny Beach Neighborhood is an unincorporated, nonprofit, voluntary organization established to enhance the common voice of Sunny Beach.
Neighborhood Meeting April 2
Mark your calendar to attend the next Sunny Beach Neighborhood (S.B.N.) meeting on Saturday, April 2. We will meet at 6 p.m. at Ron Binkley’s house at 11203 Bernice Dr.
Meeting Agenda
· S.B.N. dues and treasurer’s report
· New members and membership (Do we need a membership officer?)
· City of Galveston Ike buyout property at 11213 Bernice Dr.
· Abandoned beachfront houses at 11224 and 11226 Garfield Way
· Beach bollards
· Volunteer needs: grass cutting on Ike buyout lots* and site of Sunny Beach sign (lot at corner of Schwartz Dr. and 8 Mile Rd.); retrieving trash cans; and picking up trash tossed by people and/or wind along 8 Mile Rd. and throughout the neighborhood
· The sand nourishment project west of the Seawall
· Seawall paid-parking issue
*In a January e-mail Gerri Empey contacted Dianna Puccetti, our City Council representative, to ask who is responsible for maintenance at 11213 Bernice Drive. Puccetti responded that it is an issue also in Spanish Grant, Bermuda Beach and Sea Isle, but “I have not received a direct answer at this point.” She added, “I will keep pushing.”
Neighborhood Changes
If you haven’t been to Sunny Beach lately, you may not know there has been a “flurry” of property selling and buying activity since December. Welcome to our new neighbors:
Stan & Edie Speer of Richmond, TX, who purchased 11207 Reagor Way from Carol Gibbins
Lane & Valeri Johnson of Houston, who purchased 11212 Bernice Dr. from David and Rena LaCroix
Janice Iden of Cypress, TX, who purchased 11218 Reagor Way from Metta Weburg
... and farewell to Matt & Lauren Johnson, who moved away from 11200 Bernice Dr.
Please Help
“Clean-up Trash Day,” anyone? Sunny Beach has a problem with extensive littering in neighborhood ditches and along 8 Mile Rd. No one is in charge of picking up this trash, so it's up to us, the residents of Sunny Beach, to keep our neighborhood clean – not only our own properties, but around them as well. Trash by the side of the road seems to attract additional trash. Spring Break is upon us, and it's just going to get worse.
Galveston News & Issues
The Galveston City Council is trying to get paid parking on the Seawall again. This would be potentially devastating to the "free" parking areas on the West End (especially 8 Mile Rd.). Plan to attend our April 2 meeting to weigh in on this important issue as we will want to be sure the council knows our neighborhood’s position.
We may see changes in windstorm insurance requirements if the legislature approves recommendations from the Texas Windstorm Insurance Association. See “TWIA seeks reforms,” published February 20 in the Galveston Daily News about proposed changes at http://galvestondailynews.com/story/212778/.
Visit http://wgipoa.com/ for information on West Galveston Island Property Owners Association. Other online resources are the Galveston Daily News at http://galvestondailynews.com/ and Guidry News Service at http://www.guidrynews.com/.
Upcoming
Feb. 25–27 & Mar. 4–8 Galveston Mardi Gras (www.mardigrasgalveston.com)
March 11–20 Spring Break (UT and other schools)
March 12 Music Night on The Strand, 5 – 8 p.m. at
Saengerfest Park, 2300 Strand (every second Saturday)
March 12 ArtWalk, 6 – 9 p.m.
Galveston Arts Center & Other Galleries
March 13 Daylight Savings Time begins
April 2 Sunny Beach Neighborhood Meeting, 6 p.m.
at Ron Binkley’s house, 11203 Bernice Drive
April 24 Easter
April 30 ArtWalk
May 6–8 & 13–14 Historic Homes Tour, Galveston Historical Foundation
Rental Properties
If there is a problem with a rent house call GARM Security at 409-682-3603 to reach peace officers. For emergencies, call 911. For non-emergency police assistance, call the Galveston Police at 409-766-2100.
2011 S.B.N. Dues Now Being Collected
You should have received an e-mail or letter from S.B.N. treasurer Bruce Billings this month with an invoice for $25.00 per Sunny Beach property. If you have not already sent your membership payment, please do so now! Make checks payable to “Sunny Beach Neighborhood” and mail to Bruce Billings, 7373 Blairview Dr., Dallas, TX 75230.
S.B.N. Officers and Blog
The elected officers of Sunny Beach Neighborhood are Tom Empey, president, at tempey@comcast.net or 409-789-2297; Bruce Billings, treasurer, at thebilltender@tx.rr.com or 214-207-0975; and Anne Billings, secretary, at adavisbillings@tx.rr.com or 214-739-6004. Feel free to contact any of us should you have neighborhood news, questions or problems to report.
Also, Tom Empey created a blog for us where we can post thoughts and comments. Log on to: sunnybeachneighborhood.blogspot.com.
Neighborhood Meeting April 2
Mark your calendar to attend the next Sunny Beach Neighborhood (S.B.N.) meeting on Saturday, April 2. We will meet at 6 p.m. at Ron Binkley’s house at 11203 Bernice Dr.
Meeting Agenda
· S.B.N. dues and treasurer’s report
· New members and membership (Do we need a membership officer?)
· City of Galveston Ike buyout property at 11213 Bernice Dr.
· Abandoned beachfront houses at 11224 and 11226 Garfield Way
· Beach bollards
· Volunteer needs: grass cutting on Ike buyout lots* and site of Sunny Beach sign (lot at corner of Schwartz Dr. and 8 Mile Rd.); retrieving trash cans; and picking up trash tossed by people and/or wind along 8 Mile Rd. and throughout the neighborhood
· The sand nourishment project west of the Seawall
· Seawall paid-parking issue
*In a January e-mail Gerri Empey contacted Dianna Puccetti, our City Council representative, to ask who is responsible for maintenance at 11213 Bernice Drive. Puccetti responded that it is an issue also in Spanish Grant, Bermuda Beach and Sea Isle, but “I have not received a direct answer at this point.” She added, “I will keep pushing.”
Neighborhood Changes
If you haven’t been to Sunny Beach lately, you may not know there has been a “flurry” of property selling and buying activity since December. Welcome to our new neighbors:
Stan & Edie Speer of Richmond, TX, who purchased 11207 Reagor Way from Carol Gibbins
Lane & Valeri Johnson of Houston, who purchased 11212 Bernice Dr. from David and Rena LaCroix
Janice Iden of Cypress, TX, who purchased 11218 Reagor Way from Metta Weburg
... and farewell to Matt & Lauren Johnson, who moved away from 11200 Bernice Dr.
Please Help
“Clean-up Trash Day,” anyone? Sunny Beach has a problem with extensive littering in neighborhood ditches and along 8 Mile Rd. No one is in charge of picking up this trash, so it's up to us, the residents of Sunny Beach, to keep our neighborhood clean – not only our own properties, but around them as well. Trash by the side of the road seems to attract additional trash. Spring Break is upon us, and it's just going to get worse.
Galveston News & Issues
The Galveston City Council is trying to get paid parking on the Seawall again. This would be potentially devastating to the "free" parking areas on the West End (especially 8 Mile Rd.). Plan to attend our April 2 meeting to weigh in on this important issue as we will want to be sure the council knows our neighborhood’s position.
We may see changes in windstorm insurance requirements if the legislature approves recommendations from the Texas Windstorm Insurance Association. See “TWIA seeks reforms,” published February 20 in the Galveston Daily News about proposed changes at http://galvestondailynews.com/story/212778/.
Visit http://wgipoa.com/ for information on West Galveston Island Property Owners Association. Other online resources are the Galveston Daily News at http://galvestondailynews.com/ and Guidry News Service at http://www.guidrynews.com/.
Upcoming
Feb. 25–27 & Mar. 4–8 Galveston Mardi Gras (www.mardigrasgalveston.com)
March 11–20 Spring Break (UT and other schools)
March 12 Music Night on The Strand, 5 – 8 p.m. at
Saengerfest Park, 2300 Strand (every second Saturday)
March 12 ArtWalk, 6 – 9 p.m.
Galveston Arts Center & Other Galleries
March 13 Daylight Savings Time begins
April 2 Sunny Beach Neighborhood Meeting, 6 p.m.
at Ron Binkley’s house, 11203 Bernice Drive
April 24 Easter
April 30 ArtWalk
May 6–8 & 13–14 Historic Homes Tour, Galveston Historical Foundation
Rental Properties
If there is a problem with a rent house call GARM Security at 409-682-3603 to reach peace officers. For emergencies, call 911. For non-emergency police assistance, call the Galveston Police at 409-766-2100.
2011 S.B.N. Dues Now Being Collected
You should have received an e-mail or letter from S.B.N. treasurer Bruce Billings this month with an invoice for $25.00 per Sunny Beach property. If you have not already sent your membership payment, please do so now! Make checks payable to “Sunny Beach Neighborhood” and mail to Bruce Billings, 7373 Blairview Dr., Dallas, TX 75230.
S.B.N. Officers and Blog
The elected officers of Sunny Beach Neighborhood are Tom Empey, president, at tempey@comcast.net or 409-789-2297; Bruce Billings, treasurer, at thebilltender@tx.rr.com or 214-207-0975; and Anne Billings, secretary, at adavisbillings@tx.rr.com or 214-739-6004. Feel free to contact any of us should you have neighborhood news, questions or problems to report.
Also, Tom Empey created a blog for us where we can post thoughts and comments. Log on to: sunnybeachneighborhood.blogspot.com.
Friday, January 14, 2011
Minutes from December 28th, 2010 Meeting
Members of Sunny Beach Neighborhood (SBN) met from 5 to 7:30pm on December 28th, 2010, to discuss neighborhood issues, get acquainted with one another and to celebrate the holiday season. The meeting was hosted by Bruce and Anne Billings at 11216 Bernice Dr.
In attendance were:
Bruce and Anne Billings
BJ and Catherine Mehirnfar (11205 Bernice)
Jesse Meason and Carmen (11227 Bernice)
Robert and Janis Cox (11223 Reagor Way)
Ron Binkley (11203 Bernice and 11226 Reagor Way)
SBN Officers' Reports
The president of SBN, Tom Empey, was out of town; no business was reported.
The treasurer, Bruce Billings, reported that approximately one-half of the neighborhood had paid dues to support SBN activities in 2010. The SBN bank account ended 2010 with a balance of $1,279.58. An additional $50 in dues was collected at the meeting.
The secretary, Anne Billings, distributed copies of the 2010-2011 Neighborhood Directory to those present. Information and photographs in the directory reflect many changes at Sunny Beach since the last directory and are current from input available through the end of 2010. There are two copies available for each property represented. Contact Anne or Gerri Empey to receive your directories.
New Neighbors
11201 Schwartz, Kyle Manary (Heather) of Galveston, TX
11213 Schwartz, Kay Harrington of Richwood, TX
11205 Reagor Way, Diane Jackson passed away June 12, 2010; Richard Cole, her friend in Bellaire, TX, not only agreed to be the contact, but also paid dues to support SBN.
11218 Reagor Way, recently sold (formerly Metta Weburg)
11224 Reagor Way, Mike Jernigan and Gaard Egeland, of Houston, TX
11221 Bernice, John Pellegrini (Peggy), of Mineola, TX
11227 Bernice, Jesse Meason (Carmon), of Richmond, TX
SBN Issues
(Items listed below were discussed, but none acted upon. These will be revisited at our next meeting)
Beach Sand Renourishment -
Although the sand project was cancelled, residents at our meeting seemed optimistic that sometime in the future it will be reinstated.
Beach Bollards -
Ron Binkley (11203 Bernice & 11226 Reagor Way) reported that the GLO in Austin is agreeable to having the bollards repositioned, but our problem is with the City of Galveston. Consensus was to continue to push the city to have the bollards moved westward of our development.
Additionally, we need to hold the city accountable for maintaining the lot at 11213 Bernice Drive purchased in the Ike buyout. * SBN residents have seen vehicles accessing the beach through this lot. We could request some sort of barricade to the beach (bollards?) on this lot.
* Julia Lewis (11216 Schwartz) says she has a design for use of this property for SBN to propose to the city.
Neighborhood Security & Welfare
We have been fortunate to have the Empey's (who sold their home in December), the Husemann's, Bond's and others living at Sunny Beach keeping an eye on what is happening for those who own properties as vacation homes and/or rentals. BJ Mehirnfar (11205 Bernice) suggested we identify which Sunny Beach homes are occupied full-time (This information is available in the Sunny Beach Directory.) He proposed we consider hiring a "manager" (perhaps part time or as needed) with neighborhood funds to watch out for residents' needs - from bringing in trash bins from the street after weekly pick-ups, to maintenance needs and trouble-shooting.
We also discussed the need for something to distinguish our neighborhood as a unique, cohesive identity, with the purpose of enhancing all SBN property values. Ideas discussed included planting a "hedge" of oleanders or installing a fence along 3005 and possibly 8 mile road perimeters of Sunny Beach - something to make it look like a distinct community.
New Business
Our next meeting will be late winter or early spring.
Please advise Tom Empey tempey@comcast.net of ideas or items you wish to include on the agenda for the next SBN meeting.
You can lend a hand with pulling in trash bins in for out-of-town neighbors who must depart Sunny Beach prior to their trash pick up. Get to know your neighbors. Report any "strange" activity or vehicles at properties, to the police and/or to other SBN members.
Sunny Beach Neighborhood participation is important; please become involved.
Wednesday, November 17, 2010
Sad Day ...
Galveston's $40 million beach project canceled
HOUSTON CHRONICLE
Nov. 15, 2010, 2:01PM
GALVESTON — State officials canceled a $40 million Galveston beach replacement project that was scheduled to begin today because of a recent Texas Supreme Court ruling that weakens the Texas Open Beaches Act.
Texas Land Commissioner Jerry Patterson canceled the project because the court's ruling in a lawsuit questioning the application of the Texas Open Beaches Act "has muddied the legal waters enough to delay the beach project indefinitely," according to a statement released by the General Land Office.
"Our hands are tied now," Patterson said. "With this much money on the bubble, the delay caused by these legal questions makes it too costly to continue this project."
The 6-mile project, from the west end of the Galveston sea wall to 13-mile Road, was intended as a defense against high erosion rates threatening the city's tax base and infrastructure.
The project would have been paid for by the General Land Office's Coastal Erosion Planning and Response Act Program with local, state and federal money.
Jim Suydam, Land Office spokesman, said the Supreme Court ruling means that there is no public beach easement on the west end of Galveston Island. Without the easement, the constitutional prohibition against spending public money to improve private property makes the project impossible, Suydam said.
The ruling was a result of a lawsuit brought by the California-based Pacific Legal Foundation on behalf of San Diego, Calif., resident Carol Severance, who owns several income properties on Galveston Island. The court ruled that the Open Beaches Act does not apply when erosion is caused by a storm.
One of Severance's houses ended up on the public beach as a result of storm erosion. The court said Severance could be forced to remove her house from the beach under the Open Beaches Act if it was as a consequence of natural erosion, but not storm-caused erosion.
Sunday, November 07, 2010
Sand Project
Bill Husemann was the first one to spot the boats and the pipe being pulled up to the beach. The pipe to bring in sand is in front of the pond just east of our subdivision. It's a good sign that the project will start soon!
Monday, November 01, 2010
House Move!
We had an exciting week at Sunny Beach. On Thursday, October 28th, 2010 we had a house moving down the beach and up 8 Mile Road to Reagor Way.
11201 Bernice Drive moved from it's front row home to a new placement on 11226 Reagor Way. The house is sitting on it's temporary spot until the pilings are placed and then it will slide into it's permanent new home.
We
will update when placement is done ....
Monday, July 26, 2010
Tuesday, April 27, 2010
Buyout House Torn Down
The buyout property at 11213 Bernice Drive was
taken down last week (April 20-21, 2010).
This property will be green space for perpetuity.
Friday, January 22, 2010
SUNNY BEACH NEWSLETTER
JANUARY, 2010
Sunny Beach Neighbors: Wow! It’s been a while since the last newsletter! We have passed the anniversary of Ike and now it’s time to get our neighborhood working together for common good.
Next Meeting
Our next neighborhood meeting is 6 p.m. on Saturday, February 13, at Bruce and Anne Billings’ house, 11216 Bernice Drive. Those who want to will go on to dinner at a nearby restaurant afterwards. Officers will be elected, and new volunteers are needed! Anyone interested in a position, please contact Tom Empey at tempey@comcast.net. Let’s develop a plan and a vision for Sunny Beach Neighborhood.
Projects – Past, Present and Future
Sunny Beach Sign After the storm, Tom Empey retrieved “Sunny” on the other side of FM 3005 on 8 Mile Road. A few months later, we found “Beach” in the salt cedars in the horse field. The sign letters were sitting by the posts of the old sign, and someone came by and took “Sunny”! Anne and Bruce Billings reordered the missing letters and found us two new pottery sun faces; Tom Empey got new wood and stain; and, one afternoon last August, Kathe Giebelhaus, Robert Cox, the Billings, and the Empeys rebuilt the sign. It’s nice to have it back. Thank you to those who made it happen!
Issues
Sunny Beach Neighborhood Post-Ike Sunny Beach lost five houses to Hurricane Ike – either taken away entirely by the storm (11205 and 11207 Bernice Drive and 11215 Schwartz Drive) or so badly damaged, they were taken down later (11206 Schwartz Drive and 11222 Bernice Drive). We’re so sorry for the owners of these properties!
Clean-up of Private Property Thirty-five of the remaining houses have been repaired and are looking good. Congratulations! Six more properties still need attention. The status on these, as far as known, is as follows:
11201 Schwartz Drive – notice sent by city; pending hearing
11214 Schwartz Drive – plywood on windows; city said it is “secure”
11201 Bernice Drive – repairs pending permit; may wait for sand-placement project
11213 Bernice Drive – on city buyout list (may be long time before taken down)
11224 Garfield Way – repairs pending
11226 Garfield Way – status unknown
If there are any concerns about other properties, please e-mail temepey@comcast.net.
Beach Sand Renourishment The major sand renourishment project from the end of the Seawall to 13 Mile Road has been pushed back to April 2010. Jerry Mohn sent this in October 2009: “The total CEPRA VI program for all approved projects, with leveraging Federal dollars, is $146 million for the Texas coast. The West End is getting close to $68.7 million, with $46.4 million going for the massive sand nourishment and dune construction project. We are still on track for the project; it will not begin now until probably March or April, but once they do start, the project will be completed.”
Sewers and City Services We will not be getting city sewer services in the near future. This is “on hold” for another five or six years, according to inquiries to the city. Street signs lost in the storm are now back in place. In November the city added new gravel to Bernice Drive and Beard Drive, and a drainage ditch along the eastern boundary of the neighborhood. A roadblock has been put at the east end of Bernice Drive to deter driving on the beach, and a large log blocks traffic from driving or walking on Ron Binkley’s property (Please respect all our beachfront owners’ efforts to establish new dunes by not walking on them).
Beach Bollards New “Pedestrian Access” signs have been added to the bollards on both ends of the beach parking area. We can probably move the eastern bollards westward to 8 Mile Road. Strategies will be discussed at our February neighborhood meeting.
Garbage In your water bill you received guidelines for placement of garbage. Garbage is collected Monday morning; please do not put your garbage out before Sunday afternoon. If you have your house in a rental pool you need at least two cans. Call 409-741-4636 to order additional cans; it’s only an additional $3 per month. Make sure you have a system in place so that your trash cans get taken in and out at appropriate times.
Dirt Roads Please slow down, and post a sign in your rentals for cars to watch for pedestrians and to drive slowly. We have dirt roads, and when people go speeding up and down them, the people on the north side of the road have a cloud of dust drifting into their faces. There are dogs, children and adults walking to and from the beach … please, let’s keep everyone safe and dust-free.
Lock Your Cars We have a lot of people coming and going in our neighborhood. Please question people. If it doesn’t seem right, it probably isn’t. If your doors are locked you shouldn’t have any problems. We also have a West End Community Crime Watch (see below).
Programs
West End Community Crime Watch E-mail Group If you are interested in signing up, let Gerri Empey know. There is a personal information form to fill out and this program should start soon.
Texas Beach Watch Program The Galveston County Health District tests bacteria levels on the West End beaches. One of the locations checked is at 8 Mile Road, and we have a sign that lets you know if the bacteria levels are high. You also can check the Web site at www.gchd.org/pollution/beachadvisory.htm.
West Galveston Island Property Owners Association
WGIPOA is in its ninth year, and the challenges are still significant in the areas of coastal erosion, taxes, security, drainage and evacuation. They have been successful in addressing issues and concerns of property owner associations and maintaining the quality of life we enjoy on the West End. For information, go to wgipoa.com or contact Jerry Mohn at mohn@msn.com.
Upcoming Events
Galveston ArtWalk — Saturday, January 23, 2010
Mardi Gras — February 5–16, 2010
Sunny Beach Neighborhood Meeting — 6 p.m., Saturday, February 13, at 11216 Bernice Dr. (Billings’ house)
For Galveston area events and additional information, go to www.galveston.com.
Sunny Beach Neighborhood
2010 Dues Now Being Collected Support our neighborhood. Being an active part of SBN is a great opportunity to have an impact on our community! Make your $25 check payable to “SBN/Tom Empey” and send or deliver to 11221 Bernice Drive, Galveston TX 77554, by February 15, 2010.
Sunny Beach Neighborhood is an unincorporated, nonprofit, voluntary organization. We exist to provide ways for our neighborhood to come together as a group and to make Sunny Beach a better place to live and play. Membership dues are only a nominal annual fee of $25 per household. This pays for our membership with the West Galveston Island Property Owners Association (WGIPOA), newsletters, our directory, right-to-use access and other neighborhood improvement projects that the group would like to accomplish.
Officers
President — Tom Empey, 11221 Bernice Drive, tempey@comcast.net or 409-741-2455
Treasurer — Sook Miller, 11227 Bernice Drive, sookmil@gmail.com or 713-822-8395
Secretary — Kathe Giebelhaus, 11210 Bernice Drive, green_eyed_kat@hotmail.com or 409-939-7112
Sunny Beach Blog
Log onto: sunnybeachneighborhood.blogspot.com
JANUARY, 2010
Sunny Beach Neighbors: Wow! It’s been a while since the last newsletter! We have passed the anniversary of Ike and now it’s time to get our neighborhood working together for common good.
Next Meeting
Our next neighborhood meeting is 6 p.m. on Saturday, February 13, at Bruce and Anne Billings’ house, 11216 Bernice Drive. Those who want to will go on to dinner at a nearby restaurant afterwards. Officers will be elected, and new volunteers are needed! Anyone interested in a position, please contact Tom Empey at tempey@comcast.net. Let’s develop a plan and a vision for Sunny Beach Neighborhood.
Projects – Past, Present and Future
Sunny Beach Sign After the storm, Tom Empey retrieved “Sunny” on the other side of FM 3005 on 8 Mile Road. A few months later, we found “Beach” in the salt cedars in the horse field. The sign letters were sitting by the posts of the old sign, and someone came by and took “Sunny”! Anne and Bruce Billings reordered the missing letters and found us two new pottery sun faces; Tom Empey got new wood and stain; and, one afternoon last August, Kathe Giebelhaus, Robert Cox, the Billings, and the Empeys rebuilt the sign. It’s nice to have it back. Thank you to those who made it happen!
Issues
Sunny Beach Neighborhood Post-Ike Sunny Beach lost five houses to Hurricane Ike – either taken away entirely by the storm (11205 and 11207 Bernice Drive and 11215 Schwartz Drive) or so badly damaged, they were taken down later (11206 Schwartz Drive and 11222 Bernice Drive). We’re so sorry for the owners of these properties!
Clean-up of Private Property Thirty-five of the remaining houses have been repaired and are looking good. Congratulations! Six more properties still need attention. The status on these, as far as known, is as follows:
11201 Schwartz Drive – notice sent by city; pending hearing
11214 Schwartz Drive – plywood on windows; city said it is “secure”
11201 Bernice Drive – repairs pending permit; may wait for sand-placement project
11213 Bernice Drive – on city buyout list (may be long time before taken down)
11224 Garfield Way – repairs pending
11226 Garfield Way – status unknown
If there are any concerns about other properties, please e-mail temepey@comcast.net.
Beach Sand Renourishment The major sand renourishment project from the end of the Seawall to 13 Mile Road has been pushed back to April 2010. Jerry Mohn sent this in October 2009: “The total CEPRA VI program for all approved projects, with leveraging Federal dollars, is $146 million for the Texas coast. The West End is getting close to $68.7 million, with $46.4 million going for the massive sand nourishment and dune construction project. We are still on track for the project; it will not begin now until probably March or April, but once they do start, the project will be completed.”
Sewers and City Services We will not be getting city sewer services in the near future. This is “on hold” for another five or six years, according to inquiries to the city. Street signs lost in the storm are now back in place. In November the city added new gravel to Bernice Drive and Beard Drive, and a drainage ditch along the eastern boundary of the neighborhood. A roadblock has been put at the east end of Bernice Drive to deter driving on the beach, and a large log blocks traffic from driving or walking on Ron Binkley’s property (Please respect all our beachfront owners’ efforts to establish new dunes by not walking on them).
Beach Bollards New “Pedestrian Access” signs have been added to the bollards on both ends of the beach parking area. We can probably move the eastern bollards westward to 8 Mile Road. Strategies will be discussed at our February neighborhood meeting.
Garbage In your water bill you received guidelines for placement of garbage. Garbage is collected Monday morning; please do not put your garbage out before Sunday afternoon. If you have your house in a rental pool you need at least two cans. Call 409-741-4636 to order additional cans; it’s only an additional $3 per month. Make sure you have a system in place so that your trash cans get taken in and out at appropriate times.
Dirt Roads Please slow down, and post a sign in your rentals for cars to watch for pedestrians and to drive slowly. We have dirt roads, and when people go speeding up and down them, the people on the north side of the road have a cloud of dust drifting into their faces. There are dogs, children and adults walking to and from the beach … please, let’s keep everyone safe and dust-free.
Lock Your Cars We have a lot of people coming and going in our neighborhood. Please question people. If it doesn’t seem right, it probably isn’t. If your doors are locked you shouldn’t have any problems. We also have a West End Community Crime Watch (see below).
Programs
West End Community Crime Watch E-mail Group If you are interested in signing up, let Gerri Empey know. There is a personal information form to fill out and this program should start soon.
Texas Beach Watch Program The Galveston County Health District tests bacteria levels on the West End beaches. One of the locations checked is at 8 Mile Road, and we have a sign that lets you know if the bacteria levels are high. You also can check the Web site at www.gchd.org/pollution/beachadvisory.htm.
West Galveston Island Property Owners Association
WGIPOA is in its ninth year, and the challenges are still significant in the areas of coastal erosion, taxes, security, drainage and evacuation. They have been successful in addressing issues and concerns of property owner associations and maintaining the quality of life we enjoy on the West End. For information, go to wgipoa.com or contact Jerry Mohn at mohn@msn.com.
Upcoming Events
Galveston ArtWalk — Saturday, January 23, 2010
Mardi Gras — February 5–16, 2010
Sunny Beach Neighborhood Meeting — 6 p.m., Saturday, February 13, at 11216 Bernice Dr. (Billings’ house)
For Galveston area events and additional information, go to www.galveston.com.
Sunny Beach Neighborhood
2010 Dues Now Being Collected Support our neighborhood. Being an active part of SBN is a great opportunity to have an impact on our community! Make your $25 check payable to “SBN/Tom Empey” and send or deliver to 11221 Bernice Drive, Galveston TX 77554, by February 15, 2010.
Sunny Beach Neighborhood is an unincorporated, nonprofit, voluntary organization. We exist to provide ways for our neighborhood to come together as a group and to make Sunny Beach a better place to live and play. Membership dues are only a nominal annual fee of $25 per household. This pays for our membership with the West Galveston Island Property Owners Association (WGIPOA), newsletters, our directory, right-to-use access and other neighborhood improvement projects that the group would like to accomplish.
Officers
President — Tom Empey, 11221 Bernice Drive, tempey@comcast.net or 409-741-2455
Treasurer — Sook Miller, 11227 Bernice Drive, sookmil@gmail.com or 713-822-8395
Secretary — Kathe Giebelhaus, 11210 Bernice Drive, green_eyed_kat@hotmail.com or 409-939-7112
Sunny Beach Blog
Log onto: sunnybeachneighborhood.blogspot.com
Monday, December 07, 2009
Reason to Blog
We have a reason to blog today. It has been awhile and there is plenty to be thankful for in this season. We will try to catch up to everything soon.
Wednesday, September 24, 2008
Hurricane Ike
September 24, 2008
Today people started coming back to the island to access damage to their homes. Now is a time for rebuilding.
As a group Sunny Beach Neighbors are there for each other. Thanks to everyone who sent pictures and kept one another in touch with neighborhood information.
I'm not sure how to get the pictures on the blog, if you did not receive them just let me know and I'll get them to you.
I hope to see everyone soon. I'm in Minnesota and Tom is on the island.
We'll post things when we can.
Everyone stay safe!
Gerri
Today people started coming back to the island to access damage to their homes. Now is a time for rebuilding.
As a group Sunny Beach Neighbors are there for each other. Thanks to everyone who sent pictures and kept one another in touch with neighborhood information.
I'm not sure how to get the pictures on the blog, if you did not receive them just let me know and I'll get them to you.
I hope to see everyone soon. I'm in Minnesota and Tom is on the island.
We'll post things when we can.
Everyone stay safe!
Gerri
Sunday, July 27, 2008
The Bond Issuance Passed!
Our sewer bond issuance has made it through the city council with a super majority vote of 6 of 7 votes. The money will be here to spend in about a month. We can expect work to begin this winter with completion by spring. Congatulations to everyone. As a reminder, the city is working on language that will allow those with newer systems to continue using those systems for 5 to 10 years, allowing the amortization of those investments.
Saturday, July 19, 2008
Sunny Beach Neighborhood Celebrates 10th Anniversary!
We have very important issues to deal with so please everyone please stay tuned. We will do our very best to keep everyone up to date. I will try to place them here in order of time sensitivity.
City Council Vote!!!!
Thursday July 24Th the city council will vote on the bond issue that will fund our sewer project. The vote will require a super majority of 6 votes. There is one new council member Elizabeth Beeton that has voted against a previously planned project that they nearly lost. If she does it again we will have a problem. She is taking issue with process, not the bond issue itself apparently. Given the issue with the proposed rules from the GLO, some of you may have issue with any further delay. If it goes through as planned, we will have sewer construction beginning in about 6 months. If you are considering a construction project please consider and watch this carefully. For those of you with perfectly working, maybe even new septic systems, there is a proposed rule change to allow you to keep using your system for 5 to 10 years in order to see your investment through. This is a very nice compromise by the city. With our new sewers we need a lift station. The land where the old water tank was on the west side of 8 mile road is being considered. They will deal with that as well in the Thursday meeting. A land swap is being constructed between the city and Marquette Development. Our new representative on the council is Karen Mahoney. She is aware of our issue.
HB-2819 The proposed rules by the GLO!
If you haven't kept up with this you need to. Check the previous posts. Read all you can.
On July 8Th, Jerry Patterson explained the new proposed rules for building set backs from the beach. As of right now he is saying these are voluntary rules that the local governments can comply with or not. However compliance will be tied to grant funding for CEPRA (Coastal Erosion Protection and Response Act)Funding. It is currently scheduled to take affect July 2009. It will not affect the current project re nourishment from being funded. That project will place sand 200 feet south of it's current position from the Seawall to 11mile road. A nice project for us. The City and County of Galveston, are opposed to the rule changes as you might expect. 
At the meeting County Judge Jim Yarborough as well as county commissioners verbally opposed the rules and said they could not support them as written. 
The WGIPOA is working with our local governments to come up with our own proposal to bring to them that may be a little less debilitating for land owners. Jerry Mohn has advised my that for now we should do nothing with this until they are further along. I will keep you posted PLEASE STAY TUNED. Any public comment must be to the GLO by August 15Th.
Tied to all the funding mechanisms for our re nourishment and other projects is the 4B Sales tax extension the city is asking for in the upcoming election. It will be on the ballot as a charter amendment. This sales tax is already being charged but the authority to charge it will run out in 2009. The amendment will authorize an extension of that authority. This needs to pass. YOU NEED TO VOTE. If one of your family members is not claiming voting rights in this city....YOU NEED TO. The west end now makes up approximately 48% of the tax base on the island but very little in registered voters. We need you. In order to take on big issues we need to have influence with our vote. A husband and wife can have one vote here and another in your other city and county. All you need to do is register to vote in this city. Please see the link. http://www.galvestonvotes.org/english_index.htm You can claim a homestead exemption on your home here too. Slow the tax man down a little.
At the Sunny Beach July 5Th Meeting we discussed the HB-2819. We are still in the same wait and see pattern for now but the announcement of the sewer project may influence some of the discussion.
It looks like we may get the long awaited for sidewalk along 8 mile road. The city is in budget cycle now and we reminded Steve LaBlanc (City Manager)of our request last year. We got a favorable response. It may well all happen at the same time as the sewer then roads etc.
Our new directory is going to print. Dues are due now. If you haven't payed them yet please do so.
The next WGIPOA meeting should be interesting. The General from the Army Corps of Engineers will be a guest. Many westenders believe that corps projects are at the core of our erosion issues.
Please also two committees that the WGIPOA has set up to watch legislation keep us current are the windstorm insurance committee and the tax valuations. They need help volunteers for these committees would put a nice foot forward for Sunny Beach. Any one interested please see the WGIPOA Website and call the committee chair. Hope all is well I will update you as I know more.
City Council Vote!!!!
Thursday July 24Th the city council will vote on the bond issue that will fund our sewer project. The vote will require a super majority of 6 votes. There is one new council member Elizabeth Beeton that has voted against a previously planned project that they nearly lost. If she does it again we will have a problem. She is taking issue with process, not the bond issue itself apparently. Given the issue with the proposed rules from the GLO, some of you may have issue with any further delay. If it goes through as planned, we will have sewer construction beginning in about 6 months. If you are considering a construction project please consider and watch this carefully. For those of you with perfectly working, maybe even new septic systems, there is a proposed rule change to allow you to keep using your system for 5 to 10 years in order to see your investment through. This is a very nice compromise by the city. With our new sewers we need a lift station. The land where the old water tank was on the west side of 8 mile road is being considered. They will deal with that as well in the Thursday meeting. A land swap is being constructed between the city and Marquette Development. Our new representative on the council is Karen Mahoney. She is aware of our issue.
HB-2819 The proposed rules by the GLO!
If you haven't kept up with this you need to. Check the previous posts. Read all you can.
On July 8Th, Jerry Patterson explained the new proposed rules for building set backs from the beach. As of right now he is saying these are voluntary rules that the local governments can comply with or not. However compliance will be tied to grant funding for CEPRA (Coastal Erosion Protection and Response Act)Funding. It is currently scheduled to take affect July 2009. It will not affect the current project re nourishment from being funded. That project will place sand 200 feet south of it's current position from the Seawall to 11mile road. A nice project for us. The City and County of Galveston, are opposed to the rule changes as you might expect. 
At the meeting County Judge Jim Yarborough as well as county commissioners verbally opposed the rules and said they could not support them as written. 
The WGIPOA is working with our local governments to come up with our own proposal to bring to them that may be a little less debilitating for land owners. Jerry Mohn has advised my that for now we should do nothing with this until they are further along. I will keep you posted PLEASE STAY TUNED. Any public comment must be to the GLO by August 15Th. Tied to all the funding mechanisms for our re nourishment and other projects is the 4B Sales tax extension the city is asking for in the upcoming election. It will be on the ballot as a charter amendment. This sales tax is already being charged but the authority to charge it will run out in 2009. The amendment will authorize an extension of that authority. This needs to pass. YOU NEED TO VOTE. If one of your family members is not claiming voting rights in this city....YOU NEED TO. The west end now makes up approximately 48% of the tax base on the island but very little in registered voters. We need you. In order to take on big issues we need to have influence with our vote. A husband and wife can have one vote here and another in your other city and county. All you need to do is register to vote in this city. Please see the link. http://www.galvestonvotes.org/english_index.htm You can claim a homestead exemption on your home here too. Slow the tax man down a little.
At the Sunny Beach July 5Th Meeting we discussed the HB-2819. We are still in the same wait and see pattern for now but the announcement of the sewer project may influence some of the discussion.
It looks like we may get the long awaited for sidewalk along 8 mile road. The city is in budget cycle now and we reminded Steve LaBlanc (City Manager)of our request last year. We got a favorable response. It may well all happen at the same time as the sewer then roads etc.
Our new directory is going to print. Dues are due now. If you haven't payed them yet please do so.
The next WGIPOA meeting should be interesting. The General from the Army Corps of Engineers will be a guest. Many westenders believe that corps projects are at the core of our erosion issues.
Please also two committees that the WGIPOA has set up to watch legislation keep us current are the windstorm insurance committee and the tax valuations. They need help volunteers for these committees would put a nice foot forward for Sunny Beach. Any one interested please see the WGIPOA Website and call the committee chair. Hope all is well I will update you as I know more.
Monday, June 30, 2008
GLO Proposed Setbacks (HB 2819)
If the suggested setbacks go into place it would bump building from 25 feet, the current setback, to an average of 300 feet from the dune line. That would be around Beard Drive, you could lose the right to build on Bernice Drive.
Two public hearings have been scheduled for July 8th. The first of the two will be held at 11:00 am in the Jury Assembly Room at the new Galveston County Justice Center, and the second will be at 4:00 pm in the County Annex Building on the Bolivar Peninsula. Commisioner Patterson will be at both. We hope you all can attend.
Please view these two stories that were in the Galveston Daily News for more information:
http://galvestondailynews.com/story.lasso?ewcd=8d4c219dec47cf14
http://galvestondailynews.com/story.lasso?ewcd=a212b5890e965440
HB 2819 Proposed GLO Rule Changes Erosion Response Plan (ERP)\
• Local governments must develop a draft plan by July 1, 2009, and
incorporate into the existing Beach & Dune Plan
• Establishment of a set back line, at minimum, no less than the greater of:
60 times annual erosion rate, measured from the line of vegetation
(Basis UT Bureau of Economic Geology erosion rates);
25 feet landward of the landward toe of the foredune ridge; or
If there is no foredune ridge, 300 feet landward of mean high water of
the Gulf of Mexico
• Set back line rules for local governments
Develop criteria to identify properties seaward of the set back line for
acquisition by local government
Provide for the acquisition of fee simple title or a lesser interest in
such properties by the local government.
Promulgate techniques for prioritizing properties to be acquired by
local government
Consider acquisition of structures located seaward of the set back
line, by the local government. Structures that are damaged more than
50% or destroyed by a meteorological event repairs will fall under
provisions of proposed rules section with stricter standards.
Prohibit new construction seaward of the building setback line.
No construction for platted properties within setback line
Practicable standard / with limited grandfather provisionmust
have current or expired beachfront construction.
Construction activities cannot exceed footprint of original
permit.
Structures within the setback area
New construction are to be 3 feet freeboard above BFE and no
impervious cover and open foundations
Develop a relocation plan for structures less than 5000 square
feet prepared by a registered professional engineer. Larger
structures not required to have a relocation plan.
Dune Protection Line (DPL)
The building set back line may not be located further
landward then the DPL, but the DPL must protect critical
dunes from erosion due to construction on adjacent properties.
Counties have statuatory authority to establish DPL, set-back
lines could impact DPL, forcing movement of DPL to match
State requirements.
Local governments should ensure existing dunes protect inland
areas from a 100 year storm surge
Local governments should provide dune restoration to fill gaps
in foredune ridge created by blowouts and private access
Grandfathered areas:
Previously approved master planned developments as defined
by GLO
Accreting beach greater than 2 feet per year
Platted property with an expired or current permit with
construction consistent with the prior permit
• Requirement for consideration of CEPRA eligibility
• Updated every 5 years
Other changes in HB 2819
• Line of vegetation – GLO determination is final
• Review periods – permits and amendments to beach access plans –
depending on situation, can be 30, 60, or 90 days
• GLO Commissioner has authority to determine if a property is insurable and
should be denied windstorm coverage through TWIA
• Prepare Geo-hazard maps for various coastal
Two public hearings have been scheduled for July 8th. The first of the two will be held at 11:00 am in the Jury Assembly Room at the new Galveston County Justice Center, and the second will be at 4:00 pm in the County Annex Building on the Bolivar Peninsula. Commisioner Patterson will be at both. We hope you all can attend.
Please view these two stories that were in the Galveston Daily News for more information:
http://galvestondailynews.com/story.lasso?ewcd=8d4c219dec47cf14
http://galvestondailynews.com/story.lasso?ewcd=a212b5890e965440
HB 2819 Proposed GLO Rule Changes Erosion Response Plan (ERP)\
• Local governments must develop a draft plan by July 1, 2009, and
incorporate into the existing Beach & Dune Plan
• Establishment of a set back line, at minimum, no less than the greater of:
60 times annual erosion rate, measured from the line of vegetation
(Basis UT Bureau of Economic Geology erosion rates);
25 feet landward of the landward toe of the foredune ridge; or
If there is no foredune ridge, 300 feet landward of mean high water of
the Gulf of Mexico
• Set back line rules for local governments
Develop criteria to identify properties seaward of the set back line for
acquisition by local government
Provide for the acquisition of fee simple title or a lesser interest in
such properties by the local government.
Promulgate techniques for prioritizing properties to be acquired by
local government
Consider acquisition of structures located seaward of the set back
line, by the local government. Structures that are damaged more than
50% or destroyed by a meteorological event repairs will fall under
provisions of proposed rules section with stricter standards.
Prohibit new construction seaward of the building setback line.
No construction for platted properties within setback line
Practicable standard / with limited grandfather provisionmust
have current or expired beachfront construction.
Construction activities cannot exceed footprint of original
permit.
Structures within the setback area
New construction are to be 3 feet freeboard above BFE and no
impervious cover and open foundations
Develop a relocation plan for structures less than 5000 square
feet prepared by a registered professional engineer. Larger
structures not required to have a relocation plan.
Dune Protection Line (DPL)
The building set back line may not be located further
landward then the DPL, but the DPL must protect critical
dunes from erosion due to construction on adjacent properties.
Counties have statuatory authority to establish DPL, set-back
lines could impact DPL, forcing movement of DPL to match
State requirements.
Local governments should ensure existing dunes protect inland
areas from a 100 year storm surge
Local governments should provide dune restoration to fill gaps
in foredune ridge created by blowouts and private access
Grandfathered areas:
Previously approved master planned developments as defined
by GLO
Accreting beach greater than 2 feet per year
Platted property with an expired or current permit with
construction consistent with the prior permit
• Requirement for consideration of CEPRA eligibility
• Updated every 5 years
Other changes in HB 2819
• Line of vegetation – GLO determination is final
• Review periods – permits and amendments to beach access plans –
depending on situation, can be 30, 60, or 90 days
• GLO Commissioner has authority to determine if a property is insurable and
should be denied windstorm coverage through TWIA
• Prepare Geo-hazard maps for various coastal
Wednesday, June 11, 2008
June 2008 Newsletter - 2008-2009 Dues are being collected
Sunny Beach Neighborhood is an unincorporated, nonprofit, voluntary organization established to enhance the common voice of Sunny Beach.
Sunny Beach Neighbors: Summer is here, and it looks to be a HOT one!
2008-2009 dues are being collected; invoices should be attached to your newsletter.
Next Meeting
Our next meeting will be Saturday, July 5th, 2008, at 6 p.m. The Empey’s will host this meeting at their home, 11221 Bernice Drive.
Sunny Beach Blog
Tom Empey created a blog for Sunny Beach Neighborhood where we can post thoughts and comments and look at news from the neighborhood. Log onto: sunnybeachneighborhood.blogspot.com. If you want to leave a comment, go past the posted information, and when you get to the bottom of that posting, you will see “leave a comment.” Click on that to leave your comments (not the picture of mail). Some people have been having problems signing on, but if you follow the instructions you should not have a problem. You need a Google account to leave a comment, not to read the blog. You can set that up by following links on our blog page. Once you have your Google account, you just sign in (normally, this is entering your e-mail address and a password) and type your comments.
E-Mail Addresses for Sunny Beach
Please send your preferred email address to: gempey@comcast.net for future correspondences.
Projects – Past, Present and Future
CEPRA – FEMA Assistance This replacement sand that was lost during Rita. Sand was placed in early March, and if you blinked, or didn’t come that particular week, you missed it. The replacement sand has been redistributed. High tides took it out faster than it was placed.
Sunny Beach Sign We discussed landscaping at the last meeting, but without water it is going to be very difficult to do. Julia Lewis planted some nice flowers, and Anne Billings put a plant and painted the east side of the sun face to make it more visible. Bill Bond has been watering when he can. Art Cantu bought the pelican that is sitting on one of the pilings. It’s looking good!
Sidewalk to the Beach We have a new city council person, which we have not made contact with yet. At the next meeting, let’s have discussion on perhaps doing our own sidewalk.
Directory Anne Billings is working on our new directory. If you have any changes or additions, please let her know. Send them to adavisbillings@tx.rr.com. Members are denoted in the Directory, so get your dues in as soon as possible to be credited as a member.
Raking This subject seems to change as often as the tide. We were told we needed a survey and permit to have the beach raked. Then we received an email stating that the Park Board could do it and we didn’t have to do anything but submit a letter. We submitted a letter, only to find out the GLO is making the Park Board also have permits to rake any areas they take care of. So, we were back to the no raking … but they have scraped it a few times since our letter. We have decided if they rake fine, if they don’t fine. We did not apply for a permit.
Issues
Hurricane Season Plan We all need to develop a plan in case we have a storm heading our way. After Rita, we all learned a lot about what needs to be done and having someone in place to do it. The people who live here have to take care of their own houses and leave early. Check now to make sure you have a shutter system available — whether that is cut plywood, film on your windows, shutters (roll, electric or other), or whatever you choose. Make sure everything is in working condition, so when it comes time to use it you are ready. When you leave the beach, take in your furniture, BBQ grill, or anything you have outside that could become a missile during high winds. If you have a rental, make sure the agency will take everything in for you. Give your cell phone number to Gerri Empey, and she will call after the storm to give you an update of the neighborhood (Tom will be here). We don’t live for storms, but we should have a plan in place in case we get one!
Garbage In your water bill you received guidelines for placement of garbage. Garbage is collected Monday morning; please do not put your garbage out before Sunday afternoon. If you have your house in a rental pool you need at least two cans. Call 409-741-4636 to order additional cans; it’s only an additional $3 per month. Make sure you have a system in place so that your trashcans get taken in and out at appropriate times.
Dirt Roads Please slow down, and post a sign in your rentals for cars to watch for pedestrians and to drive slowly. We have dirt roads and when people go speeding up and down them, the people on the north side of the road have a cloud of dust drifting into their faces. We have dogs, children and adults walking to and from the beach … please, let’s keep everyone safe and dust-free.
Lock Your Cars We have a lot of people coming and going in our neighborhood. Please question people. If it doesn’t seem right, it probably isn’t. If your doors are locked you shouldn’t have any problems.
Programs
Texas Beach Watch Program The Galveston County Health District tests bacteria levels on the West End beaches. One of the locations checked is at 8 Mile Road, and we have a sign that lets you know if the bacteria levels are high. You also can check the Web site at www.gchd.org/pollution/beachadvisory.htm.
West Galveston Island Property Owners Association
WGIPOA is in its eighth year, and the challenges are still significant in the areas of coastal erosion, taxes, security, drainage and evacuation. They have been successful in addressing issues and concerns of property owner associations and maintaining the quality of life we enjoy on the West End. For information, go to wgipoa.com or contact Jerry Mohn, mohn@msn.com.
Galveston Calendar of Events
July 5th Sunny Beach Neighborhood Meeting
Downtown Farmers Market (second Sat. every month)
Galveston ArtWalks
For more information, go to www.galveston.com.
Sunny Beach Neighborhood
It’s never too late to join the Sunny Beach Neighborhood Organization!
Dues are only $25 a year; 2008-2009 dues are payable now. Your invoice is attached.
Sunny Beach Neighborhood is an unincorporated, nonprofit, voluntary organization. We exist to provide ways for our neighborhood to come together as a group and to make Sunny Beach a better place to live and play. Dues are only $25 a year; 2008-2009 dues are payable now. This pays for our membership with the West Galveston Island Property Owners Association (WGIPOA), newsletters, our directory, right-to-use access for our beach walkover, and other neighborhood improvement projects that the group would like to accomplish.
Officers
President — Tom Empey, 11221 Bernice Drive, tempey@houston.rr.com or 409-741-2455
Treasurer — Sook Miller, 11227 Bernice Drive, sook@sleemiller.com or 713-822-8395
Secretary — Kathe Giebelhaus, 11210 Bernice Drive, green_eyed_kat@hotmail.com or
409-939-7112
Sunny Beach Neighbors: Summer is here, and it looks to be a HOT one!
2008-2009 dues are being collected; invoices should be attached to your newsletter.
Next Meeting
Our next meeting will be Saturday, July 5th, 2008, at 6 p.m. The Empey’s will host this meeting at their home, 11221 Bernice Drive.
Sunny Beach Blog
Tom Empey created a blog for Sunny Beach Neighborhood where we can post thoughts and comments and look at news from the neighborhood. Log onto: sunnybeachneighborhood.blogspot.com. If you want to leave a comment, go past the posted information, and when you get to the bottom of that posting, you will see “leave a comment.” Click on that to leave your comments (not the picture of mail). Some people have been having problems signing on, but if you follow the instructions you should not have a problem. You need a Google account to leave a comment, not to read the blog. You can set that up by following links on our blog page. Once you have your Google account, you just sign in (normally, this is entering your e-mail address and a password) and type your comments.
E-Mail Addresses for Sunny Beach
Please send your preferred email address to: gempey@comcast.net for future correspondences.
Projects – Past, Present and Future
CEPRA – FEMA Assistance This replacement sand that was lost during Rita. Sand was placed in early March, and if you blinked, or didn’t come that particular week, you missed it. The replacement sand has been redistributed. High tides took it out faster than it was placed.
Sunny Beach Sign We discussed landscaping at the last meeting, but without water it is going to be very difficult to do. Julia Lewis planted some nice flowers, and Anne Billings put a plant and painted the east side of the sun face to make it more visible. Bill Bond has been watering when he can. Art Cantu bought the pelican that is sitting on one of the pilings. It’s looking good!
Sidewalk to the Beach We have a new city council person, which we have not made contact with yet. At the next meeting, let’s have discussion on perhaps doing our own sidewalk.
Directory Anne Billings is working on our new directory. If you have any changes or additions, please let her know. Send them to adavisbillings@tx.rr.com. Members are denoted in the Directory, so get your dues in as soon as possible to be credited as a member.
Raking This subject seems to change as often as the tide. We were told we needed a survey and permit to have the beach raked. Then we received an email stating that the Park Board could do it and we didn’t have to do anything but submit a letter. We submitted a letter, only to find out the GLO is making the Park Board also have permits to rake any areas they take care of. So, we were back to the no raking … but they have scraped it a few times since our letter. We have decided if they rake fine, if they don’t fine. We did not apply for a permit.
Issues
Hurricane Season Plan We all need to develop a plan in case we have a storm heading our way. After Rita, we all learned a lot about what needs to be done and having someone in place to do it. The people who live here have to take care of their own houses and leave early. Check now to make sure you have a shutter system available — whether that is cut plywood, film on your windows, shutters (roll, electric or other), or whatever you choose. Make sure everything is in working condition, so when it comes time to use it you are ready. When you leave the beach, take in your furniture, BBQ grill, or anything you have outside that could become a missile during high winds. If you have a rental, make sure the agency will take everything in for you. Give your cell phone number to Gerri Empey, and she will call after the storm to give you an update of the neighborhood (Tom will be here). We don’t live for storms, but we should have a plan in place in case we get one!
Garbage In your water bill you received guidelines for placement of garbage. Garbage is collected Monday morning; please do not put your garbage out before Sunday afternoon. If you have your house in a rental pool you need at least two cans. Call 409-741-4636 to order additional cans; it’s only an additional $3 per month. Make sure you have a system in place so that your trashcans get taken in and out at appropriate times.
Dirt Roads Please slow down, and post a sign in your rentals for cars to watch for pedestrians and to drive slowly. We have dirt roads and when people go speeding up and down them, the people on the north side of the road have a cloud of dust drifting into their faces. We have dogs, children and adults walking to and from the beach … please, let’s keep everyone safe and dust-free.
Lock Your Cars We have a lot of people coming and going in our neighborhood. Please question people. If it doesn’t seem right, it probably isn’t. If your doors are locked you shouldn’t have any problems.
Programs
Texas Beach Watch Program The Galveston County Health District tests bacteria levels on the West End beaches. One of the locations checked is at 8 Mile Road, and we have a sign that lets you know if the bacteria levels are high. You also can check the Web site at www.gchd.org/pollution/beachadvisory.htm.
West Galveston Island Property Owners Association
WGIPOA is in its eighth year, and the challenges are still significant in the areas of coastal erosion, taxes, security, drainage and evacuation. They have been successful in addressing issues and concerns of property owner associations and maintaining the quality of life we enjoy on the West End. For information, go to wgipoa.com or contact Jerry Mohn, mohn@msn.com.
Galveston Calendar of Events
July 5th Sunny Beach Neighborhood Meeting
Downtown Farmers Market (second Sat. every month)
Galveston ArtWalks
For more information, go to www.galveston.com.
Sunny Beach Neighborhood
It’s never too late to join the Sunny Beach Neighborhood Organization!
Dues are only $25 a year; 2008-2009 dues are payable now. Your invoice is attached.
Sunny Beach Neighborhood is an unincorporated, nonprofit, voluntary organization. We exist to provide ways for our neighborhood to come together as a group and to make Sunny Beach a better place to live and play. Dues are only $25 a year; 2008-2009 dues are payable now. This pays for our membership with the West Galveston Island Property Owners Association (WGIPOA), newsletters, our directory, right-to-use access for our beach walkover, and other neighborhood improvement projects that the group would like to accomplish.
Officers
President — Tom Empey, 11221 Bernice Drive, tempey@houston.rr.com or 409-741-2455
Treasurer — Sook Miller, 11227 Bernice Drive, sook@sleemiller.com or 713-822-8395
Secretary — Kathe Giebelhaus, 11210 Bernice Drive, green_eyed_kat@hotmail.com or
409-939-7112
Tuesday, May 20, 2008
School Kids Plant Vegetation on Sunny Beach Dunes
Weis Middle School Children were in Sunny Beach on Tuesday May 20th. They were planting Bitter Panicum along the dunes.
They have been here before. About 3 years ago their science teacher chose our beach with another group and planted the same type of vegetation.
As you can see they were very successful and beach dunes benefited.
This time Jay Smith, the science teacher, has a new tool he calls Super Soil. It sucks moisture towards the plant roots and keeps it there.
As these plants grow they trap blowing sand and help build the dunes naturally, so that when we do have a storm event it adds the natural defense of a better dune line.
This last photo is a part of our dune line that the kids are planting now. As you can see from the previous photos, the plantings make a giant difference. Everything that each of us does to improve our environment contributes to the overall well being of everything and everyone around us.
Thank You, to all the young people that contributed to this project, from the Sunny Beach Neighbors. We appreciate your hard work and dedication to helping the beach.
They have been here before. About 3 years ago their science teacher chose our beach with another group and planted the same type of vegetation.
As you can see they were very successful and beach dunes benefited.
This time Jay Smith, the science teacher, has a new tool he calls Super Soil. It sucks moisture towards the plant roots and keeps it there.
As these plants grow they trap blowing sand and help build the dunes naturally, so that when we do have a storm event it adds the natural defense of a better dune line. 
This last photo is a part of our dune line that the kids are planting now. As you can see from the previous photos, the plantings make a giant difference. Everything that each of us does to improve our environment contributes to the overall well being of everything and everyone around us.
Thank You, to all the young people that contributed to this project, from the Sunny Beach Neighbors. We appreciate your hard work and dedication to helping the beach.
Monday, March 17, 2008
Update on Cost of Raking:
I had an email from the City and part of the application for the permit is that the beach has to be surveyed. I called the survey company, that is doing the survey for the sand project right now, and the very least they would charge is $500. It will be more like $1,000-$3,000 and every year you have to have a new survey when you apply for the raking permit.
So it's $100 for the permit, then the survey, and I would have to find someone to rake (the city didn't have a list of who does that). So it looks to be cost prohibited to pull a permit to "maybe" rake. Sorry!
FYI:
Response:
Yes 8 (get permit) (1 of those was yes, but no money. Another one was depending on cost)
No 4 (leave it)
Didn't matter 3
So it's $100 for the permit, then the survey, and I would have to find someone to rake (the city didn't have a list of who does that). So it looks to be cost prohibited to pull a permit to "maybe" rake. Sorry!
FYI:
Response:
Yes 8 (get permit) (1 of those was yes, but no money. Another one was depending on cost)
No 4 (leave it)
Didn't matter 3
Tuesday, March 11, 2008
Meeting notes from 3/8/2008
Sunny Beach Neighborhood Association
Notes from 3/8/2008
Notes from 3/8/2008
1. Financial Status of Sunny Beach Neighborhood Association
a. Current Balance: $1297.16. We had collected $1200 for the Rita replacement sand project and a letter regarding the sand money is being developed. We have $97.16 for our working expenses, and $275 due for WGIPOA
i. Accounts Receivable from Outstanding Dues- We will let you know if you haven't paid your dues for 2007.
Current obligation
i. WGIPOA Dues - $275 due now
ii. Right to use easement fees - $40 due in November
iii. Refunds if any for the neighbors that contributed extra for the match funds that were not required, WGIPOA is asking for use to raise $7500 for the major sand project, a letter regarding the sand money is being developed.
Status of current projects
The Sign Project
Budget vs. Actual
1. Budget - $1000 (from what we remembered)
2. Actual - $1534.95, there might be one more outstanding receipt for the finishing rope, stainless screws. (Gerri thought $1037, but I don't know how to add
Budget vs. Actual
1. Budget - $1000 (from what we remembered)
2. Actual - $1534.95, there might be one more outstanding receipt for the finishing rope, stainless screws. (Gerri thought $1037, but I don't know how to add
5/1/07 Coastal Surveying Of Texas, Inc Sign Survey 162.37
8/23/07 City Of Galveston Sign - Permits 70.00
8/30/07 Galveston Wholesale Sign - Pilings 221.70
8/31/07 Alberts Pilings Sign - Pile Placement 250.00
11/4/07 Bruce Billings Sign - Letters & Sun's 332.75
11/19/07 Sea Sharp Sign - rope, boards, paint etc... 498.13
------------
TOTAL 4/1/07 - 3/8/08 -1,534.95
3. Landscaping Discussion - Kathryn Berdine ... will you help develop a landscape plan and budget?? Anyone who has plants they might want to contribute, or ideas, you can email Gerri and she will cor-ordinate the information. Sook has a couple of big white sea rocks that we could incorporate.
4. Other discussion regarding the sign project- Looks good, the Billings would like a carved pelican or seagull on the pilings.
The Sand Projects Discussion --- We have two
1. FEMA RITA REPLACEMENT - being placed now
2. CEPRA V the large project and the difference between the two. This project is being delayed until late 2009/2010
1. FEMA RITA REPLACEMENT - being placed now
2. CEPRA V the large project and the difference between the two. This project is being delayed until late 2009/2010
Sidewalk Project is currently stalled. We will have to make another official request and start the process over Discussion Tom will make contact with Diana Puchitti and Steve LeBlanc, looks like we just need to stay with this until someone helps. This is a sidewalk from Schwartz to either Bernice or beach due to the danger of walking along 8 mile road.
Water Tower Complete?? Everybody Happy? It's completed, looks good
Other Items that effect us
i. 4b sales tax discussion
ii. consider registering in Galveston for the right to vote. One person can vote where your home is and one can vote here for Galveston issues.
Other Items that effect us
i. 4b sales tax discussion
ii. consider registering in Galveston for the right to vote. One person can vote where your home is and one can vote here for Galveston issues.
Resolution Sent to Washington. You can read this on the blog
Other projects considered at previous meetings
i. Trees for the front of the neighborhood along 3005. Any discussion? Gerri will contact owners along 3005 and get pricing on clearing ditches, Tom will get prices on 5' trees.
i. Trees for the front of the neighborhood along 3005. Any discussion? Gerri will contact owners along 3005 and get pricing on clearing ditches, Tom will get prices on 5' trees.
Projects to be considered for this year???
i. Sea Weed push back: Gerri thought she read that we have to have a survey, she will get clarification .. it may be cost prohibited.
ii. Sook would like to see umbrellas and chairs, something to create a better feel and look for the front of our development .. maybe Jacob might want a job?
iii. Concern was expressed about a few people who come everyday and hang out in the parking area, Gerri will follow-up with Mark Miller to see what he suggests we do.
What impact do we want on the west ends future?
Does anyone want to go to the city planning meetings for the future of Galveston?
We have the right to a board seat at the table of the west WGIPOA. Would anyone like to consider putting his or her hat in the ring? The next opportunity is next February.
i. Sea Weed push back: Gerri thought she read that we have to have a survey, she will get clarification .. it may be cost prohibited.
ii. Sook would like to see umbrellas and chairs, something to create a better feel and look for the front of our development .. maybe Jacob might want a job?
iii. Concern was expressed about a few people who come everyday and hang out in the parking area, Gerri will follow-up with Mark Miller to see what he suggests we do.
What impact do we want on the west ends future?
Does anyone want to go to the city planning meetings for the future of Galveston?
We have the right to a board seat at the table of the west WGIPOA. Would anyone like to consider putting his or her hat in the ring? The next opportunity is next February.
Reminders for the season. Talk to your neighbors about a hurricane plan when you see them.
Send them to the blog: Things that need to be done before the next meeting: Which will be in June.
Sook - Get TIN
Landscape - Design around sign, Trees along 3005 behind homes on Schwartz. Ask Kathryn Berdine if she will head this project.
Sidewalk/Rope - Tom will re propose the sidewalk plan, and call our city council rep.
Gerri - Will talk to Mark Miller about group on the beach.
And also find out more information on Sea Weed Permit.
Kathe and Tom will develop letter and information about the major sand project, suggested donations and we will need every one's response on whether they will participate.
Sook - Get TIN
Landscape - Design around sign, Trees along 3005 behind homes on Schwartz. Ask Kathryn Berdine if she will head this project.
Sidewalk/Rope - Tom will re propose the sidewalk plan, and call our city council rep.
Gerri - Will talk to Mark Miller about group on the beach.
And also find out more information on Sea Weed Permit.
Kathe and Tom will develop letter and information about the major sand project, suggested donations and we will need every one's response on whether they will participate.
Newsletter in May, next meeting is June ... Anyone want to host it??
Tuesday, March 04, 2008
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