The Olde Richmond Civic Association held its monthly general meeting on Tuesday, March 23, over Zoom.
The meeting, hosted by ORCA president Rosemary Thomas, featured discussions on recent community surveys, updates on its recently announced spring cleanup and reminders about board elections as well as volunteer opportunities.
Earlier this year, ORCA sent out surveys via Facebook and its newsletter to get a better sense of the neighborhood’s interests and what can be done to upgrade various aspects of the community. Based on those who responded, beautification, public safety and zoning and residential development are prioritized the most by community members. Some of the improvements that were suggested include more trash cans, more green spaces and better enforcement of on-street parking regulations.
ORCA secretary Nate Adams said those who responded to the survey should expect to hear back from the civic association in the near future, and he also encouraged those who didn’t take part to get in contact with ORCA as well.
“We’re going to reach out to you in the next weeks and months to engage with you and talk about ways we can work together to bring some of these projects you listed to fruition and just let you better organize and activate within ORCA,” Adams said.
Thomas went on to discuss details for ORCA’s upcoming spring cleanup, which will take place on Saturday, April 2, at 10 a.m. Participants will meet by Pop’s Playground and clean up Trenton Avenue between Huntingdon and York streets. ORCA will be partnering with the East Kensington Neighbors Association to help cover all side streets. Following the cleanup, there will be a barbecue at Philadelphia Brewing Company.
With this being ORCA’s first cleanup of the season, Thomas encouraged anyone who may be interested in taking part to get the word out.
“Spread the word if you and your friends want to come,” Thomas said. “It’s always a nice day and it’s a nice start to these kinds of events.”
Moreover, with all ORCA board positions up for election in June, Thomas said that nominations will take place during the May general meeting, with board terms starting in July. Those interested in a board position must be either a resident of the neighborhood or have owned a business in the neighborhood for at least three years. Anyone who is interested is encouraged to reach out to ORCA.
