We would like to add an event in the spring of 2004. We plan to throw party and concert at Shipe Park. The funds collected would go to keeping the swimming pool open longer next summer. We believe that this would benefit all of us, but most of all the children of the neighborhood.

    There are also many opportunities to preserve and protect our neighborhood.

    The Hyde Park Planning Team is working on completing the Neighborhood Conservation Combining District (NCCD) for the area of Hyde Park North of 45th Street. This team has been working hard to accomplish this very important task for the neighborhood. The area South of 45th was completed in 2000. This created zoning that recognizes the unique conditions, which make Hyde Park a special district to the City of Austin.

    Across Central Austin, including Hyde Park, there is a cry for controlling redevelopment. Currently, the City has few tools to aid in the preservation of the older neighborhoods. Therefore, residents of Central Austin are pushing the City to establish Historic Districts. We believe that Hyde Park should be an active participant in this endeavor.

    Zoning code compliance is also important. We believe that HPNA should work with the City of Austin to improve code compliance and enforcement. We also think that the Association should help educate the residents of Hyde Park regarding the zoning rules. HPNA currently has a development review process through which a homeowner or property owner can work with the Association regarding any type of construction in the neighborhood. We believe this process is essential to the preservation of the neighborhood.

    In closing, we look forward to working with the officers of HPNA - the Treasurer, Mike Capochiano and the Secretary, Marrilee Ratcliffe - the Committee Chairs and the membership of HPNA. There are many opportunities to have fun in our wonderful neighborhood and many important issues facing the quality of life in our neighborhood. We encourage you to become involved. Please feel free to call or send an e-mail to us.