On January 19, the membership of Northeast Shores Development Corporation attended the 2010 Annual Meeting, which always features the election of new board trustees. Members checked in and renewed their annual dues in order to be able to receive their ballot and vote.

The meeting commenced with each of 12 candidates sharing why the membership should elect him (or her) to one of the eight available slots on the Northeast Shores Board of Directors. After hearing from the candidates present, two more members were nominated from the floor. These two additional nominees were Jim Valentino and Miles Kennedy, who shared key details about why they should be elected. Having heard from all interested candidates present, the membership proceeded to complete their ballots.

While the ballots were tallied, Councilman Polensek provided a brief update about projects and happenings in the neighborhood. After the councilman spoke, I shared key details about the organization's outcomes in 2009: Over $14 million was invested in the community in 2009, Northeast Shores programs created 110 housing opportunities, and 103 current residents were assisted by various housing programs. In addition, 31 businesses were assisted in their creation or growth and over $45,000 was raised for various grassroots programs in the community.

After my presentation, the results of the election were announced. Returning for an additional term are incumbents Brian Menard (VASJ High School), Fil Scafidi (Euclid Hospital), Pastor Trombley (St. John Lutheran Church) and Victor Rucker (Resident). Newly elected to the board are Bill Eppich (Advance Industrial Glass), KC Petraitis (Resident), John Meyerhoffer (Resident), and Miles Kennedy (Resident).

If you are not a member of Northeast Shores, we encourage you to become a member now, volunteer for a committee, and perhaps next year consider being a candidate for the 21-member board.

Brian Friedman is the Executive Director of Northeast Shores