The luncheon meeting was held 11:30 a.m. at the Sibcy Cline office on Winton Road. There were 12 people in attendance.

After a delicious meal, President Deborah Reynolds opened the meeting at 12:00 noon by welcoming all attendees.

President’s Report — Deborah recently met with past president, Joe Gorman, about the direction of the business association and possible changes to be made. Would like to see members become more active in the association. Deborah asked for suggestions about how to improve growth of the STBA and what member’s expectations are. Some ideas were: 1.) Interact with other business associations. 2.) Affiliate STBA with other associations to expand our network. 3.) Bob Will suggested a project for STBA to get members involved. Kathy Koops said weekend projects are difficult, but thought a weekday project may fly. Perhaps a cleanup day on Winton Road. 4.) Kathy also suggested aligning with another association on a one or two year trial basis to see if the association grows.

Other discussion on the topic: 1.) Maggie Wesley reported that the Mt. Healthy Business Association has seventy-seven members. We should find out more about what makes them so successful. 2.) President Reynolds said Woodlawn and Evendale are members of a regional chamber of commerce that is successful. 3.) Deanna Kuennen, Development Services Director for Springfield Township suggested looking into joining with Colerain’s Business Association. Springfield Township has a good working relationship with Colerain Township.

Deborah talked briefly about her article in the STBA newsletter. She stated that Springfield Township businesses should use other township businesses if they can provide needed services and are a viable business. She suggested making a directory of goods and services that can be provided to members of the STBA.

Another topic discussed was updating the STBA web site.

Finally, Ms. Reynolds said the group may want to redesign the mission statement along with the strategic plan. She would like to revisit the plan, but needs volunteers to help.

Treasurer’s Report — Bob Will gave the following report:

Balance as of last regular meeting - $2,831.79

Income 244.84

Expenses 454.60

Current balance $2,622.03

Bob also reported that he has STBA golf shirts for purchase at $5.00 each.

Communications — No report. Chip Berquist is out of town.

Programs — Denise Cagle had Jim Williams lined up as a speaker to discuss de-regulation of utilities in Ohio, however, Jim never made it. Possible speaker for another meeting is Elizabeth Nichols with New Plan Realty. Deanna Kuennen suggested Scott Katz from Midland Atlantic Properties. Other ideas for speakers or presentations can be emailed to Denise at finneytown.ed@sunrise-al.com.

An open house/picnic is being planned for August and will be open to all business people in Springfield Township.

Membership — Maggie Wesley will meet with Andy Boettcher to print up certificates of membership for the business association. Maggie hopes to get approval for the certificate at the August board meeting. Tickets were printed as an invitation for people to attend the Business Expo at Groovin’ at the Grove. There is no admission fee, but the ticket helps provide an incentive to go. Maggie would like to continue the Expo next year.

Township Update — Deanna Kuennen brought copies of the new Springfield Township brochure that went out to residents and businesses. It targeted four groups: existing and potential residents and businesses. It’s purpose is to sell the township. Deanna also reported that the Vision Plan will be presented at 5:30 on Tuesday, August 13 to interested people. The vision plan illustrates the needs of the township for the next 3 — 5 and 10 — 20 years. The economic development plan is a plan to help the township grow in the right direction. The Winton Road improvement project is on schedule with a streetscape plan being developed. Township Trustees hired the team of CDS, Human Nature and McKenna to develop it. The plan focuses on Winton Road between Galbraith and Fleming Roads. Winton Road is a county road, however the township is hoping to create a zoning overlay district to allow more local input on what happens along the Winton Road corridor. Lastly, the township recently sold bonds to generate money for improvements. Plans to relocate the fire department headquarters, relocate the service department, expand the police department and improve the Grove Hall will soon be designed.

New businesses locating in the township are: Tire Discounters on Winton Road, Domino’s on Winton Road, the spca on Compton Road and Fortec Medical on Hamilton Avenue.

There are currently 1,215 signatures on a petition to lobby Bigg’s to move the Brentwood Plaza. A letter from Springfield Township will accompany the petition. The business association will also draft a letter to be sent.

Busines Expo — Karen Burton reported that 18 vendors are registered to participate in the Expo this year. From this event she has signed up three new STBA members. Grand prize drawing is an overnight stay at Woodfield Suites. There will be other door prizes given away and announced on stage. Karen also mentioned that is important for the businesses to stay until 8:00 when the Expo ends.

Groovin’ at the Grove — Melanie McNulty thanked all businesses who help to sponsor the Groovin’ events. Everything is ready for the Expo and food booth. Also asked for more trophy sponsors for the car show on August 16.

President Reynolds had all attendees introduce themselves and thanked Kathy Koops for hosting the lunch and meeting.

Business Spotlight — Affordable Wireless and Car Audio. Owner, Scott Fowler reported that the car audio part of the business will be replaced with a sign company. The wireless business will continue to provide the same services as before. Scott has teamed up with Bart Woodley of Sign Depot U.S.A. Bart’s company manufactures all types of signs from banners to neon. Look for that merger soon.

Next general meeting is Thursday, September 2 at 8:00 a.m. in the Springfield Township Senior Center, Room A.

President Reynolds adjourned the meeting at 1:00.

Respectfully submitted,

Melanie McNulty

Recording Secretary