Question 1

Bylaws & Standing Rules

Accepted Answer

BYLAWS & STANDING RULESStory Preservation Association Standing Subcommittees Updated & Approved – [July 8, 2025]Mission: The Bylaws & Standing Rules Subcommittee is responsible for the periodic review, maintenance, and amendment of the governing documents of the Story Preservation Association to ensure clarity, accuracy, and legal compliance.Core Responsibilities:Annual Review:
 Conduct an annual review of the SPA Bylaws and Standing Rules, as directed by the SPA Standing Rules:
 “The Bylaws Committee shall annually review Story Bylaws and Standing Rules, and offer any findings to the Steering Committee for consideration.”
Steering Committee Transition:
 Convene shortly after each new Steering Committee is seated to review bylaws and procedures and propose any necessary updates.
Amendment Process:
 Identify and vet potential amendments, and present clear recommendations to the Steering Committee for discussion and approval.
Member Engagement:
 Announce the annual review process in Story Time, on the Story website, and through online communication platforms, inviting Association members to submit suggestions for revisions.
Legal Oversight:
 Recommend legal review of existing documents or proposed changes as needed, to ensure compliance with applicable City of Phoenix ordinances and state and federal regulations.
Transparency:
 Ensure any approved changes are published in Story Time, on the website, and shared with Story residents via appropriate digital communication channels with links to full text.

Question 2

Communications & Media

Accepted Answer

COMMUNICATIONS & MEDIAStory Preservation AssociationStanding SubcommitteesUpdated & Approved – [July 8, 2025]Mission:The Communications & Media Subcommittee promotes transparency, connection, andengagement across the F.Q. Story neighborhood by managing SPA’s websites, socialmedia, and printed publications.Core Responsibilities:1. Website & Technical Oversight:Manage and update SPA websites:FQStory. org – Provides neighborhood information, meeting notices, eventcalendars, preservation resources, and safety updates.FQStoryHomeTour. org – Hosts details and promotional materials for the AnnualHome Tour.Collaborate with web professionals as needed to troubleshoot technical issues andmaintain site functionality.Ensure timely updates and accessibility across all web platforms.2. Social Media & Digital Engagement:Manage SPA’s official social media accountsShare neighborhood updates, event announcements, and important alerts.Use digital media to highlight neighborhood culture, history, and community spirit.3. Story Time Periodical:Oversee production of Story Time, SPA’s printed neighborhood newsletter. The StoryTime Editor is responsible for the newsletter’s content, formatting, and publication.Curate and edit articles, announcements, classifieds, and creative submissions fromresidents and SPA committees.Coordinate with advertisers and manage collection of ad payments.Coordinate layout, printing, and delivery schedule. Organize Story resident volunteersfor door-to-door hand delivery on assigned blocks.Ongoing Commitment:This subcommittee ensures the Story neighborhood stays informed, connected, andrepresented through accessible and engaging media platforms.

Question 3

Community Engagement

Accepted Answer

Community Engagement Committee Story Preservation Association Standing Subcommittees Updated & Approved – [July 8, 2025]Mission: The Community Engagement Committee fosters a warm, inclusive, and connected neighborhood by welcoming new residents, coordinating community events, and celebrating neighborhood pride through outreach and recognition efforts.Core Responsibilities:New Resident OutreachPersonally greet new residents with a friendly welcome and a packet of neighborhood resources, including essential contacts, SPA subcommittee details, and City of Phoenix neighborhood services.Welcome materials may include embellishments such as cookies or handmade cards when time and resources allow. Invite new neighbors to upcoming events and encourage participation in community life.Keep welcome materials current and reflective of Story’s character.

Events & ActivitiesPlan and host inclusive neighborhood events that build community spirit, including:
Annual Elections & Picnic – A springtime cornerstone community gathering in early April that includes our annual steering committee elections, a potluck meal, games, and a chance for neighbors to connect.
Ice Cream Social & Neighborhood Parade – A fall F.Q. tradition bringing neighbors together for sweet treats, creative costumes, and cheerful camaraderie. In recent years this event has coincided with the F.Q. Story Mother’s Group Trunk or Treat Halloween event. 
Neighborhood Yard Sale – A fun and eco-friendly event in early March encouraging reuse, community mingling, and spring cleaning!

In addition to these annual events, the committee plans and supports year-round small fundraising and community building efforts such as neighborhood pop-ups, mini raffles, seasonal porch contests, and other creative low-lift activities that encourage engagement.
The committee collaborates with other local neighborhood organizations and groups to promote and support their events when possible, helping strengthen ties within our broader community.

Visual Award ProgramAdminister the Visual Award, which recognizes homes that enhance neighborhood beauty and pride.
Accept and track nominations (active for three months).Present photos and nominees to the Steering Committee for monthly voting.Interview and notify winners for Story Time publication.Deliver the Visual Award sign to display at the winning home.Maintain a record of past winners; homes are eligible once every three years unless ownership changes.Ensure fair voting by requiring Steering Committee nominees to disclose conflicts and recuse themselves.
Ongoing Commitment: The Community Engagement Committee is a cornerstone of neighborly connection in the Story neighborhood, promoting hospitality, celebration, and civic pride through events, outreach, and recognition.

Question 4

Historic Preservation & Beautification

Accepted Answer

HISTORIC PRESERVATION Story Preservation Association Standing SubcommitteesUpdated & Approved – [July 8, 2025]SPA 501(c)(3) Mission Statement: To preserve and revitalize residential neighborhoods and adjacent commercial properties and promote historic preservation efforts throughout Central Phoenix.PurposeThe Historic Preservation Committee is dedicated to safeguarding the architectural integrity, livability, and historic charm of the F.Q. Story Historic District. This includes monitoring construction activities, reviewing permit requests and zoning changes, and advocating for appropriate development. Additionally, the committee promotes neighborhood beautification and addresses conditions that may contribute to "slum and blight," ensuring a vibrant and well-maintained community.Duties & Responsibilities1. Historic Preservation OversightKey Responsibilities:Neighborhood Monitoring: Conduct regular surveys of the neighborhood to observe construction activities and verify that appropriate permits are posted.​
Permit Review: Evaluate building permit applications to determine if projects require:Certificate of No Effect (CNE): For minor alterations that do not affect the historic character of the property.Certificate of Appropriateness (COA): For significant exterior modifications, new construction, or infill projects that may impact the historic integrity of the district.​
Standards Compliance: Assess applications against:City of Phoenix General Design Guidelines for Historic Properties.The Secretary of the Interior’s Standards for the Treatment of Historic Properties.​
Documentation and Advocacy: Review City Historic Preservation staff reports, submit formal “File Letters” with SPA recommendations, and attend hearings as needed to represent the association's interests.​
Appeals Process: If necessary, file appeals to the Historic Preservation Commission, City Council, or Board of Commissioners to contest decisions that may adversely affect the historic district.​
Policy Updates: Stay informed about changes to local and state preservation policies.2. Community Guidance & Preservation ResourcesProvide guidance to homeowners and residents regarding HP Department regulations, city incentives, and preservation best practices.
Respond to inquiries from the City of Phoenix HP Department, including historic property inventories and special requests.
Attend Historic Preservation meetings, Phoenix Historic Neighborhood Coalition gatherings, and City Council sessions when neighborhood-relevant items are on the agenda.

3. Zoning & Development MonitoringEvaluate zoning applications for F.Q. Story and surrounding neighborhoods.
Assess whether proposed developments are compatible with historic character or may set problematic precedents.
Receive notifications through the SPA Steering Committee, zoning commission, other neighborhood associations, and the Village Planning Committee.
Attend public meetings and hearings, as necessary, to represent neighborhood interests.
Recommend actions to the SPA Steering Committee to ensure appropriate outcomes on zoning and development matters.4. Neighborhood Beautification & Blight PreventionPromote environmental conditions that enhance the neighborhood’s aesthetic and residential quality of life while aligning with historic preservation goals.Initiate and support community beautification projects, such as tree planting, volunteer alley clean-up events, and maintenance of public spaces such as the landscaping along 15th Avenue.
Assist association members in advocating for the remediation of conditions contributing to "slum and blight," as defined by the City of Phoenix, including:Overgrown or dead vegetation exceeding six inches in height.Accumulation of junk, litter, or debris on properties.Inoperable vehicles stored on premises.Fences in disrepair or structures with deteriorated exteriors.Graffiti on buildings or walls.Vacant and unsecured structures that may attract trespassers or pose safety hazards.
Provide information on the City’s Neighborhood Services Department where concerned property owners can report violations and get additional information and support. 
Periodically publish helpful information on property maintenance and reporting issues via the community newsletter and/or social media outlets. City of Phoenix Historic Preservation ContactsLocation: City Hall, 200 W. Washington St., 3rd Floor, Phoenix, AZ 85003Historic Preservation Officer: Helana Ruter | (602) 256-4155Administrative Assistant: Bridget Collins | (602) 261-8699Planners:Jodey ElsnerKevin WeightLiz Wilson
Visiting Hours: Monday–Friday, 1:00–5:00 p.m. (appointments recommended)Parking: Half-price at City Garage with validation from City Hall lobby

Question 5

Home Tour Committee

Accepted Answer

Home Tour Story Preservation AssociationStanding SubcommitteesUpdated & Approved – [July 8, 2025]The Home Tour committee is responsible for designing, planning, and implementing the annual F.Q. Story Home Tour, a cherished neighborhood tradition since 1985. This event showcases the historic charm of the F.Q. Story neighborhood, featuring beautifully preserved homes and engaging community activities. ​fqstoryhometour.orgKey Responsibilities:Coordinate with homeowners to feature their residences in the tour.
Organize event logistics, including ticket sales, volunteer coordination, and vendor management.
Promote the event through various media channels to attract attendees.
Ensure the event aligns with the neighborhood's historic preservation goals.​
The proceeds from the Home Tour support the Story Preservation Association's mission to maintain and enhance the historic integrity of the neighborhood.

Question 6

Neighborhood Safety

Accepted Answer

NEIGHBORHOOD SAFETYStory Preservation AssociationStanding SubcommitteesUpdated & Approved – [July 8, 2025]Mission: The Neighborhood Safety Subcommittee works to support a safer, more livable Story neighborhood by addressing both crime prevention and traffic safety concerns. This committee combines community vigilance efforts (Block Watch) with resident-led advocacy around traffic calming and pedestrian infrastructure improvements.Core Responsibilities:1. Community Crime Prevention (Block Watch):Foster a culture of awareness and cooperation among residents to deter crime and promote safety.
Organize Block Watch meetings and neighborhood safety events as needed.
Serve as liaison with the City of Phoenix Police Department, especially the assigned Community Action Officer, to share reports and updates with the neighborhood via the Steering Committee.
Provide timely safety tips, updates, and resources via the Story newsletter, website, and social media platforms.
Apply for and manage Block Watch grant opportunities, including attending city-required classes and filing necessary reports.Committee must include at least two members authorized as grant “Signers.”

2. Traffic and Street Safety:Respond to neighborhood concerns about street safety, including speeding, cut-through traffic, and pedestrian hazards.
Coordinate with city transportation and traffic engineers to explore and implement appropriate calming measures (e.g., speed bumps, stop signs, and improved signage).
As needed, work with residents and the city to manage parking issues, including advocating for permit-only zones where needed—especially during high-traffic events such as the State Fair.
Collaborate with Streets and Transportation (S&T) to expand bike lanes and install ADA-compliant curb ramps and other pedestrian-friendly features.
Support safe school zones through partnerships with local schools (e.g., Franklin School, Kenilworth School) and police to address student driving and crosswalk safety.

Ongoing Commitment:This subcommittee remains responsive to new safety concerns raised by residents—whether related to crime, traffic flow, pedestrian access, or neighborhood events—helping ensure the streets and sidewalks of Story are welcoming and secure for all.

Question 7

Special Interest Groups & Liaison Appointments

Accepted Answer

SPECIAL INTEREST GROUPS & APPOINTMENTSStory Preservation AssociationCommunity Partnerships & Neighborhood Support RolesUpdated & Approved – [July 8, 2025]The Story Preservation Association supports a range of community partnerships and interest-based initiatives that enrich neighborhood life and foster collaboration with local institutions. These roles are not formal subcommittees but are supported by appointed volunteers or liaisons who report to the Steering Committee and align with the Association’s mission.Franklin Police and Fire High School LiaisonLocation: 1645 W. McDowell Rd. School Contacts:Principal: Lorenzo Cabrera – lcabrera@phoenixunion.orgSr. Admin Officer: Liz Lujan – elujan@phoenixunion.orgStudent Government Advisor: Gayle Deaver – deaver@phoenixunion.org

Franklin is a Title 1 high school that prepares students for public service careers in police, fire, and EMT fields. It has been recognized by the US Secretary of Education as a National Blue-Ribbon School with 100% graduation rates over the years. Many of its students are required to complete volunteer hours to graduate, and the SPA has benefited from their service in events such as alley cleanups and the Home Tour. In return, SPA supports Franklin through scholarships and community networking, including helping secure donations such as the Student Government Food Pantry.Ongoing Duties:Maintain positive relationships with school staff and studentsCoordinate student volunteer involvement in SPA events and beautification projectsCollaborate with the Steering Committee to identify annual scholarship or support opportunitiesServe as liaison between school staff and SPA when needed
The Family School LiaisonLocation: 1127 W. McDowell Rd., Phoenix, AZSchool Contact: info@tfsphx.orgSue Johnson  Administrator/Co-founder: 602-989-0647Danielle Kolb-Neale  Assistant Administrator: 602-295-2075 The Family School is a nonprofit preschool and kindergarten dedicated to preparing a diverse population of young children and their families for success in school and the community. It was recognized for excellence by Arizona Governor Katie Hobbs in 2025. The institution offers high-quality education and integrated early intervention services, emphasizing hands-on learning and individualized approaches.Liaison Responsibilities:Maintain open communication between SPA and The Family School staff.Explore opportunities for collaboration on community events and educational or volunteer service initiatives.Share relevant school updates and resources with the neighborhood through SPA channels.Support fundraising and volunteer efforts that benefit both the school and the community.Collaborate with TFS and Steering Committee to identify annual financial or volunteer support opportunities.F.Q. Story Parent’s GroupF.Q. Story Parent'ss Group Liaison: The F.Q. Story Parent's Group is a volunteer-led initiative that fosters connection among families in the neighborhood. The group organizes family-friendly events and social gatherings, aiming to strengthen neighborly bonds and create lasting memories.Liaison Responsibilities:Maintain open communication between SPA and the mother’s group leadership.Collaborate with the SPA on fundraising efforts to support future events, community-building initiatives, and family-focused projects.Feral Cat Management (TNR Program)Program Leads: Joan Gresch & Kristi KinnisonThe Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR) program helps manage the local feral cat population through humane sterilization and community education. By limiting new litters and supporting community awareness, the program reduces overpopulation while promoting compassion and care for all neighborhood animals.TNR Process:Community member contacts Joan or Kristi for help.Marty assesses the situation and arranges spay/neuter appointments with Altered Tails.Traps are set the night before the appointment.The cat is transported, sterilized, and returned to its original location.The cost is covered using the SPA’s TNR debit card.Kristi maintains records of dates, locations, and number of sterilizations for reporting to the Steering Committee.
Ongoing Duties:Promote TNR awareness via flyers, social media, and neighbor outreach.Provide humane support and education to residents regarding feral cat care.Maintain records and budget oversight related to the program.Coordinate with local spay/neuter clinics such as Altered Tails.

Standing Sub-Committees