NENA plans for the future; you can be a part of the good work

Neighborhood Revitalization Program plan modification

It’s been a busy time at NENA, and it is only going to be more active in 2017 and beyond. You are invited to be a part of the planning and implementing of new projects.

Come to the General Membership Meeting on Mon., Mar. 6, to learn more about the proposed programming and funding roadmap presented by the NENA Board of Directors.

NENA works on behalf of our community and your ideas and suggestions are needed. Share your ideas about NENA committee projects, annual events, and outreach. This is your time to get involved and make our community an even better place to call home!

All residents, businesses and property owners in the four Nokomis East neighborhoods are strongly encouraged to attend and help NENA plan for the future. In addition to the NENA Road Map and Neighborhood Revitalization Program  (NRP) plan modification, the Board will present proposed amendments to NENA’s Bylaws. Both proposals require a vote and approval from the General Membership.

General Membership Meeting

Mon., Mar. 6, 6:30–8pm

Morris Park Recreation Center – 5531 39th Ave. S.

Dessert provided by Berry Sweet Kitchen

More details about the NRP Plan modification and amendments to the bylaws are available at www.nokomiseast.org or call Becky Timm, NENA Executive Director at 612-724-5652.

Green is the color of spring

NENA’s Green Initiatives Committee is rolling out three projects this spring.

Look for new monarch and pollinator gardens on E. 50th St. boulevards in June.

NENA and Metro Blooms plan to install 15 garden patches in a new matching grant program. If you live on E. 50th St., contact NENA to see how you can get involved.

Community gardeners are working with St James Episcopal Church to expand by adding additional food plots and grow food for local food shelves. Lastly, the committee aims to increase neighborhood participation in the city’s food composting program by giving away countertop composting pails.

Attend the March committee meeting on Mar. 8, and be a part of this green work. Visit www.nokomiseast.org for more information.

Interested in serving on the NENA Board of Directors?

At the NENA Annual Meeting on Apr. 27, the neighborhood will elect community members, like yourself, to serve on the Board. NENA is hosting a Board candidate information meeting on Apr. 13, at 6pm. This is one of the most rewarding volunteer experiences you will ever enjoy.

Curb Appeal Matching Grant Lottery

NENA’s Housing, Commercial and Streetscape Committee is launching a new program to help homeowners with small exterior projects and front lawn projects. Sign up for the Curb Appeal Grant Lottery and get your upcoming project entered to win a matching grant up to $500! The deadline to enter is May 12, and winners will be announced right before Memorial Day Weekend to start your summer off right. Attend the March committee meeting on Mar. 1, and make a difference in our neighborhood. Visit www.nokomiseast.org for more information and to register.

Don’t miss out on Apr. 1 events

NENA will be tabling at the South Minneapolis Housing Fair. Learn more about NENA housing projects like the Curb Appeal Lottery and home improvement loans. This free event is on Apr. 1, at South High School, 3131 19th Ave. S.

The City of Minneapolis’ Community Connections Conference takes place on Apr. 1, at the Minneapolis Convention Center. This year’s theme, “Your Voice, Your City, CommUnity,” emphasizes bringing people together to build power and unity across cultures and communities.

11th Annual Grow Monarch Habitat Workshop

Also on May 20, NENA is offering this very popular workshop with a wealth of information for both beginning and advanced gardeners. Learn how to make a difference one lawn at a time. The workshop is free to attend, and you may register and pay for a “Monarch Garden-to-Go” plant kit.

Visit NENA’s community calendar for more event information—www.nokomiseast.org/calendar.

Home Improvement Loan Program

Whether by choice or necessity, start planning your next project now with the help of a home improvement loan from NENA.

Owners of one to four unit residences can apply for up to $15,000 to make improvements to their properties. Owner-occupants and investors may apply. The interest rate is either two or three percent, depending on income. No income restrictions apply.

NENA also has available a limited amount of funds for our emergency repair loan program. Only owner-occupied households are eligible, and income restrictions do apply. There is a maximum loan amount of $7,500 at zero percent interest. The loan is due in full upon sale of the property or title transfer.

For more information or to request an application for one of the NENA loan programs, call our partner, the Greater Metropolitan Housing Corporation’s Housing Resource Center at 612-588-3033, or visit www.gmhchousing.org. Loan applications are processed on a first-come, first served basis.

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