Greater Englewood N. A.

2002, JANUARY

Jan 31, 2002

HOMESTEAD EXEMPTIONS

A recent Englewood house fire underscores the importance of fire insurance. Often many it seems the insurance money is not available. The real estate tax laws may provide help. Providing the extra $25,000 real estate tax exemption could provide the extra money needed for insurance.

Number one, check to see if you have signed up for the homestead exemption. This is $25,000 off the appraised value (do it now!).

Two, check to see if you qualify for the second exemption. This is another $25,000 (maximum amount) off the city?’s part of the appraised value (you may not qualify for the full exemption).

Gena will have forms and instructions for the exemptions at the next meeting.

CUBA HUNTER PARK

The trees have been cut down, one would think too many in fact! But were told that the ground needs to have "muck" removed, then young trees will be planted. A deep hole is present on the south side which is the beginning of a pond of some sort. The west side has a clearing which will be the entrance. Perhaps, it will not be long before it will look like the drawings.

DRAINAGE ALONG LITTLE POTTSBURG

One machine was able to dig around roots, knock over trees and pull them to the end of the creek. A temporary road has been cleared . At least one property has been purchased by the city. This purchase included a house which will be moved or torn down. A detention or retention pond will be dug on this property. The pond will not have a fence, which indicates the slope of the sides will be gradual.

TRAFFIC SOLUTIONS

The Hart Expressway is the most underused roadway in Jacksonville at non peak hours. Instead of talking "overpass" at University and Beach, why not improve the entrances onto and off this road? It?’s not so hard to see a simple traffic light controlled intersection at Beach. Nothing fancy, just do away with the large ramps and make a connection that is safe. Thinking big, why not connect Hart to Emerson Expressway for eastbound traffic.

THANKS

I want to thank members of Gena for the plaque, gifts and gift certificates given to me at the December meeting. It really was an unexpected treat. I also want to express my thanks for the certificate from the Jacksonville City Council President and Vice President. As VP, I look forward to another good year and assisting your new President, Vicki Kutscher.

TRANSPORTATION ADVISORY STUDY (TAS)

TAS members have narrowed down to two routes, the future rail/bus system. Both routes follow the I 95 corridor along Englewood east side. One station will be in Englewood, although the entrance will be on the west side of I 95. A walk bridge constructed over I 95 will connect the station to the entrance. Another station will be at the northwest corner of Emerson and I 95. I fought for a route which would favor Philips Highway, but was out voted. The Philips route would provide the redevelopment needed in that neighborhood. You may direct questions to Robert Chadwick or Lowell Griffith who have maps of the planned routes.

HAPPY NEW YEAR!