Neighbors at last week’s Northwood Civic Association meeting discussed a few topics — a used-car lot at Castor Avenue and Bridge Street and a couple of property issues in Frankford.
But the presence of former president Joe Menkevich guaranteed a lively meeting.
Menkevich served as president until 2007 and had a close ally in board member Len Williams. However, the other officers and board members faulted the duo for the way meetings were run and other supposed shortcomings.
Menkevich and Williams resigned before the board could impeach them, with the then-vice president announcing, “Our long nightmare is over.”
Williams died in 2008. Menkevich generally stayed away from the monthly meetings.
However, the former leader attended the Jan. 17 meeting to outline reasons that the organization, in his view, is losing its way.
Menkevich cited a failure to produce a treasurer’s report and read the minutes of previous meetings. He believes the association should pay more attention to its bylaws and boundaries and not ignore what he contends is an illegal group home in the neighborhood. And he pointed to dwindling attendance at civic meetings.
Joe Krause, the newly elected president, tried to limit Menkevich’s comments.
“Don’t pull a Barry Howell on me,” Menkevich said, referring to the former president with whom he often feuds.
Frank Bennett, the group’s new vice president, promised that there will be a treasurer’s report, committee reports, membership applications and other reforms implemented in the near future.
“We’re about transparency,” he said.
Menkevich walked to the front of the room to shake Bennett’s hand.
Two people volunteered for vacant positions. If the board approves, Tom McAvoy will be the new treasurer and Walter Mellbourne will become secretary.
At one time, Menkevich vowed to never help the association again.
“I’m reversing myself,” he said, adding that he plans to find new-neighbor welcome packets left over from his presidency and bring them to next month’s meeting.
Northwood Civic Association will meet again on Tuesday, Feb. 21, at 7 p.m., at St. James Lutheran Church, at Castor Avenue and Pratt Street. ••
