In the 1/24 DHNA meeting, Peggy and Fred suggested we look at two examples of neighborhood organization in Decatur, which are at opposite extremes in terms of formality.
Oakhurst Neighborhood Association (ONA) is very formal. It has elected officers, registered membership, many standing committees, and an elaborate printed and distributed monthly newsletter.
The Winnona Park Neighborhood Association (WPNA) is more laid back. It does have a registered membership with nominal dues, but Fred tells us it has a less formal feel. It only has two regular meetings a year. It's by-laws are online. It has a board, which consists of the officers and the the committee chairpersons. That sounds like a good idea of DHNA, but adds some complexity.
A example near us, but outside the City, is the Medlock Area Neighborhood Association (MANA). It's incorporated and very structured, with a number of officers and a board.
There are many other examples of neighborhood associations, of course, and I'll be adding others here gradually. If you have some good ones to suggest, please comment with a link.
A distinction can be made between a neighborhood association and a homeowners association, like Sycamore Ridge has, although there is much overlap. DHNA considers all living inside our bounders, be they homeowners or renters, included.
As was stated in the discussion in the 1/24 meeting, it's great when nearby organizations: e.g. Decatur Heights, Sycamore Station, and Sycamore Ridge; can work together and share activities (like neighborhood watch) and events together.
