They noted that on August 30, 2004, Capital Metro announced that its board of directors unanimously approved the All Systems Go Long-Range Transit Plan for the region. The purpose of the plan is to provide citizens transportation options and to help address regional population growth, estimated to double in the next 25 years. The plan includes expanded local and express bus service, new Rapid Bus Service, and a commuter rail starter line along Capital Metro's existing freight tracks, as well as hike and bike trails along portions of rights-of-way adjacent to those tracks.

    One part of the comprehensive long-range plan, commuter rail service, will have to be approved by the public in a referendum. The board of directors adopted a resolution calling for a November 2 referendum to allow Capital Metro to operate the commuter rail starter line. State law requires voter approval for Capital Metro to operate passenger rail service.

    After the informative presentation by Sam and Rob, neighbors had several questions about the plans, especially about the noise and traffic flow in the neighborhood. A lively discussion ensued. In wrapping up their presentation, Sam and Rob emphasized that if the referendum passes on November 2, this would not increase taxes and that Capital Metro plans to gather more input from neighborhoods. If you would like additional information about this plan, go to < www.capmetro.org> or call Sam at 389-7546.

    Next, Nick van Bavel informed the neighbors about his plans to restore the James R. Curl House at 213 West 41st at Avenue C. He and his wife, Linda, plan to restore this historic residence that was built around 1893 and build an addition onto the back of the home. After detailing an interesting history of the house and noting that it is a wonderful example of the stick style of architecture, Nick asked that HPNA support their efforts to secure City Historic Landmark status. Mike Robbins moved that HPNA support these efforts and Herb Dickson seconded the motion which passed unanimously.

    Glen recognized Hermelinda Zamarripa for volunteering to be the new Crime Reporter for HPNA. We appreciate her efforts on behalf of HPNA.

    Alan Marburger presented the Hyde Park Neighborhood Association Nominating Committee's recommendation for Officer Nominations 2004-2005. They are as follows:

President: John Kerr 451-3931 <jfk@texas.net>

Vice-President: nomination needed

Co-secretaries: Pam Whittington 452-9776 < ppw@sprintpcs.com> Denise Girard 454-6584 < girard.d@att.net>

Treasurer: Michael Capochiano 467-9188 <mcap@io.com>

    The election of the officers will be held at the general meeting of HPNA on Monday, October 4.

    Alan also presented the slate of committee chairs for the upcoming year. Pursuant to the Bylaws, these volunteers will be appointed by the President of HPNA. To review the list of committee chair volunteers, please refer to your September Pecan Press. And, remember that all past newsletters are available at our website at <www.hydepark-na.org>.Alan also announced that he and HPNA's Historic Preservation Committee plan to work with the City of Austin and Preserve Austin to revamp the requirements for local historic districts in Austin. Preserve Austin is a group formed to work on a new City Ordinance regarding local historic districts. He noted that proceeds from this year's Homes Tour were earmarked to further historic preservation efforts for Central Austin and the Hyde Park neighborhood. Alan plans to present a proposal for HPNA to contribute money to assist in this endeavor with the City of Austin. This would further the tradition to further historic preservation which was begun by HPNA in 1974.

    Glen reminded all to attend the annual Fire Station Festival on Sunday, October 17, from 2 to 4 p.m.

    There being no other business to conduct, Glen adjourned the meeting.