Minutes of the January 24, 2005 Board meeting

All Board members were present except Tom Chang and Rudy Almeida.

The Board's 2005 Goals and Planning meeting was set for February 3, at 7:00 PM at Casa Blanca restaurant.

Mary Tang presented the Treasurer's Report and requested Board approval to renew the liability insurance to Hacienda La Puente Unified School District for the use of their facilities. Approved by the Board.

Mike Williams presented the results of the election of Board Members. Ballots were counted on January 13 by five members of the HHIA. There were six open seats and seven candidates. Results were: Michael Hughes - 210, Michael Williams - 189, Lucy Pedregon - 178, Thomas Chang - 173, Alfonso Baez - 169, Troy Goodspeed - 150, Rudy Almeida - 121.

Law Enforcement updates: CHP Office Joe ZiZi reported collision statistics for the 2003-4 were down even when compared with DUI. Collisions due to DUI were up 7%, first increase for a long time, as well as arrests. CHP is conducting educational programs in high schools. He urged everyone to report drunk drivers to CHP. Rain increases collisions and he cautioned drivers to slow down to avoid skidding and loss of control. The Toys for Tots was very successful. There is also an increase in tagging - please report it promptly. Be aware of new blue signs warning drivers to slow down; sign reads "Community Enforcement Area" drive safely. CHP is watching these areas. New laws: anyone under 6 years and 60 lbs must remain in the back seat; driver's license is required for motorized scooters; if windshield wipers are working, lights must be on; arrests for street racing will result in community service hours.

Guests: David Wysocki, Head Librarian at the Hacienda Heights Branch of the County Library and Mea Chiu representing the Hsi Lai Temple. Mr. Wysocki expressed appreciation for the community support for the bond issue funds to construct a new regional library at Schbarum Park, and indicated that the proposal is still on the high priority list for future funding. Mea Chui discussed the upcoming events for the Chinese New Year celebration and invited everyone to attend and participate.

President's report: Mike Williams will send a letter to Palm Elementary School Principal Dr.Vargas thanking him and his PTA group for the use of their building and the refreshments. Dickie Simmons should be contacted regarding the 7th avenue easement for the trailhead. A reward is being provided for information regarding the deaths of two persons in Hacienda Heights. A letter supporting construction of a sound wall by Wilson High School will be prepared. The meeting with Congresswoman Napolitano's staff was recapped as very successful for them and our community. A meeting with community leaders was convened to discuss the Puente Hills Use Permit and trust fund monies.

The Board approved proposed signage advertising the location of Hsi Lai Temple for the
60 freeway.

The Board approved continuation of the $520 contract for website host and maintenance for another year.

New Business: As a result of the Board of Directors election, Mike Williams seated the newly elected members, and invited Mike Hughes to take his seat on the Board. Nominations for Board Officers were made and the following were elected: President - Michael Williams, Vice-President - Charles Norris, Treasurer - Mary Tang, Secretary - Scott Martin.