February 2026 Board Meeting
Location: Section 771 – Upper Level
Absent: Bill, Clarissa
1. Call to Order
The meeting was called to order by Nicole Dungee
2. BGE Update
Nicole reported on a recent meeting held by BGE with community association presidents, including representatives from our association, the Peninsula, and Sharp-Leadenhall.
BGE provided a project overview, rationale, and a proposed route. The route was described as not yet final. When asked why the project is planned through our neighborhood, BGE indicated that specific criteria were used in determining the route but did not provide those criteria. Our State Senator has committed to obtaining this information.
The Board requested that BGE conduct a meeting directly with our neighborhood residents.
Nicole reported that BGE has received the necessary permit approval and will begin installation of the required fencing. She spoke with Felicia, who indicated that the decision appears to be final, though Bill Ferguson is continuing to review the matter. Phylicia suggested the community consider seeking legal representation.
Regarding encampments, Nicole noted:
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City services and police have fulfilled their responsibilities and remain willing to provide outreach services and remove encampments.
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BGE has declined to take a position on relocating encampments.
Nicole will continue to keep the Board informed of developments.
3. Murals & Insurance
Sandy provided an update on the mural project and related fundraising efforts.
Insurance previously obtained for the mural project was determined to be incorrect and was subsequently canceled. The Board discussed the need to secure appropriate liability insurance coverage for mural installation, including coverage for work involving ladders.
The Board also discussed the potential for hosting a mural unveiling event once completed.
Action Items:
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Nicole will research liability insurance coverage for board members.
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Kate will coordinate with Sandy to gather information necessary for insurance bids.
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Nicole will contact other neighborhood associations to inquire about their insurance policies.
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Kadeem may be consulted for additional assistance regarding insurance matters.
4. Grant Opportunities
Sandy reported she is collaborating with another resident on submission of a $5,000 grant application. The narrative and reporting components will be streamlined, and the same spreadsheet will be used for the budget.
A group from S. Warner has expressed interest in applying for a $5,000 grant to plant cherry blossom trees in empty tree pits.
Tree Pit Update:
A contractor has been identified; however, insurance coverage must be finalized before work can proceed.
5. Financial Report
In Bill’s absence, the Board discussed financial matters.
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There are minimal outstanding financial items.
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Appreciation was expressed for Sandy’s significant volunteer efforts.
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Bill and Julia currently oversee financial matters. An additional volunteer is needed; Sy volunteered to assist.
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The Finance Committee is required to meet and plans to convene in June.
The Board reviewed the association’s financial status:
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Funds are currently held at Bank of America.
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Current funding primarily consists of a City donation and remaining funds from the Baltimore Grand Prix impact reimbursement received over a decade ago.
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There has been a longstanding commitment to responsibly spend down those remaining funds.
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Based on current spending levels, reserves may be depleted within approximately 3–7 years.
Nicole noted the importance of maintaining operational funds to support community events such as movie nights and other programming.
6. Fundraising Discussion
The Board discussed the need to increase fundraising efforts.
Ideas included:
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Adding a QR code for donations on materials such as bags or signage.
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Utilizing Zelle’s new tagging system to streamline donations.
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Hosting a 50/50 raffle.
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Exploring additional fundraising ideas, including those proposed by Sandy.
7. Conflict of Interest Discussion
Paul noted that Ben Marks (recently returned to the neighborhood) and Deb O’Neil had raised concerns. The Board acknowledged the need to remain mindful of potential conflicts of interest and address them as appropriate.
8. Adjournment
Paul made a motion to adjourn.
The motion was seconded and approved.