November 2025 Neigborhood Meeting Minutes

November 10th, 2025
North Lawrence Improvement Association Neighborhood Meeting Minutes
Attendees: 9
Meeting Start Time: 7:00pm
Ted addressed all present and went over the minutes from last meeting. Ted asked the neighbors to think about how to create safe streets and what type of businesses the neighbors would like to see on the corridor. He handed out paper and pens to all present to write down their ideas. Ted stated water pumps would be needed for development to ensure storm water is controlled. The neighbors agreed. Mike Amex has partnered with Ted and presented the information to the Govenor in regards to the money that the railroad has available to make improvements to the railway environment in North Lawrence. Ted shared the improvements include a pedestrian bridge over the railway line, security fencing, to keep people safe, and a quiet zone. Ted has been pushing for the city to write the grant so the railroad can awarded the money for the improvement project. Ted voiced that the transient challenges are still going on and he continues to advocate for the neighborhood.
Neighbor asked Ted to clarify if the railway improvements included a quiet zone and Ted responded “yes”. Ted also brought up the topic, from last meeting, which is the concern that drivers get backed up on the railroad tracks when they are re-routed for a variety of circumstances. He stated he is pushing for the commissioners to pay attention to these types of neighborhood concerns.
Ted also mentioned the need for 4 way stops on Lincoln, Lyon and North Street. Ted also stated that he is pushing for more lightening on the streets.
Neighbor bought up the new Ballard center pantry and explained how to make donations and receive support. The neighbor brought up that there is also a need for warm clothing, jacket donations and the Ballard Center is in need of volunteers.
Ted is working on the Christmas/holiday collection and stated that this will be done again for 2025 and the recipients will be families from Woodlawn, the Ballard center, including other neighbors in need. Ted reminder the neighbors that Beverly Kates founded this Christmas collection. Ted will visit with Woodlawn, Ballard Center and Visiting Nurses to find out who can benefit from receiving support.
A neighbor asked if there is a “storm water panel” and what asked “what are they doing?”. Ted explained the Maple Grove Drainage District. Ted stated a neighbor is on the district that is advocating for the neighborhood. Ted stated that they meet every 2 years and Ted stated he will add info about the storm water district in the upcoming newsletter.
Neighbor asked about the airport and a new runway. Ted stated that the city wants to expand the runway to bring in bigger jets. Ted explained that the highway would need to be moved closer to the turnpike and this plan was cancelled and there is talk about a different plan.
A neighbor asked if the storm water panel could come to a meeting and speak. Ted encourages the neighbors to reach out to their commissioners via emails.
Ted stated he is still battling with parks and recreation about the use of the depot. Ted stated that the commissioner’s spoke up for the neighborhood and we did get to use
Ted has received a bill from parks and recreation for $400 to rent the depot for the Sand Rat Reunion that will not happen for 9 months. Ted is fighting for 4 free uses per year for the Neighborhood Association.
Neighbors brought up that they are not happy with charges to use parks and recreation facilities.
Adjourned: 8:31pm