Pitting Snow white againSt Some dwarfS

A proposed conservation district has Disney Streets neighbors divided

The Disney Streets are named after fairytales, which is fitting considering the storybook-like quality of the neighborhood. The streets are lined with sprawling lawns and neatly manicured flowerbeds. Kids here still play in their front yards, and most neighbors know each other by first name.

But in this quaint corner of Dallas, a battle is brewing. On one side are neighbors who want the city to rezone the area as a conservation district, and on the other side are those who oppose such a designation.

“This issue is pitting neighbors against neighbors it’s horrible,” says Nicki Conner, who opposes the conservation district and has lived on Candlelight Lane for 12 years.

Back in fall 2006, a group of neighbors petitioned the city for a study to explore the possibility of a conservation district there. In essence, the proponents want to limit how large a new house can be.

In other parts of our neighborhood, builders have been tearing down older homes to make way for much larger homes, commonly dubbed “McMansions”. The idea behind the conservation district is to keep that trend out of the Disney Streets.

“The teardowns are just beginning across Midway, so they’re getting closer to us,” says Kiki Paschall, who has lived on Cinderella Lane for 36 years and supports the conservation district. Her home, like most in the neighborhood, was built during the post

World War II boom.

“This neighborhood was the first in Dallas to have modern ranchstyle homes. Pinocchio Street was featured in the Parade of Homes back in 1954. I like the history and overall feel of our neighborhood, so it’s important to me that we keep out the McMansions.”

The proposed conservation district would still allow for teardowns, but rebuilds would have to meet a set of specific guidelines. For example, rooftops would be capped at a set height to keep with the look of the neighborhood.

“We’re not opposed to people building new homes here — we know we can’t stop teardowns,” Paschall says. “We just want to temper what is being rebuilt and make sure that it fits with what’s already here.”

Jimmy Langkop, who has lived on Aladdin Lane for 29 years, is against the conservation district because he says it doesn’t make sense in the Disney Streets.

“There’s a place for conservation districts when you really have some unique architecture. But that’s not us. The value of our neighborhood is in its location, its large lots and mature trees,” Langkop says.

“Conservation districts are really abused because anyone can argue that something is special and worth saving — but we can’t make everything a conservation district.”

The existing Disney Street deed restrictions are sufficient to keep out McMansions, he says.

“Why

fix what isn’t broken?

Our deed restrictions already call for setbacks that don’t allow for McMansions, so we don’t need to involve the city and rezone our entire neighborhood. We don’t need to tamper with our property rights — that’s a door we don’t need to open.”

Right now, if a homeowner violates those deed restrictions, it’s up to the other homeowners to sue. But if the City Council ultimately passes the conservation district as an ordinance, the city would have the power to fine anyone who violates those restrictions.

Whitey Thomas, who has lived on Dwarfs Circle for 10 years, supports a conservation district. He says

WHAT HAS HAPPENED SO FAR?

• In fall 2006, a group of homeowners petitioned its neighbors to see if they would be interested in the city conducting a study of the Disney Streets to determine if the area could qualify as a conservation district. After two-thirds of the affected homeowners signed the petition, the city launched its study.

• Since then, city planners have surveyed the Disney Streets. After determining that the area qualified as a potential conservation district, they took their findings to the City Plan Commission.

• The City Plan Commission has approved those findings, and signs alerting neighbors of possible zoning changes have been posted around the Disney Streets.

• The city selected volunteer members for the Disney Streets Steering Committee, which is made up of 21 homeowners — some of who support the conservation district, some who oppose it, and some who are undecided. That committee will hammer out the details of the proposed ordinance, deciding which finer points will make it into the document and which will be deleted.

WHAT WILL HAPPEN NEXT?

• The city attorney will write the final ordinance based on the committee’s recommendations.

• Homeowners will then vote whether to establish a conservation district by mailing in forms sent out by the city. If a majority votes in favor of it, then the ordinance will go before the City Plan Commission for zoning review.

• If the City Plan Commission approves the ordinance, it will go before the council for a vote. Although it’s not required, city councilmen typically vote with the councilman representing that district, which in this case is Ann Margolin. n unless a homeowner plans to violate those deed restrictions, he or she shouldn’t mind involving the city.

“If you already intend to follow our deed restrictions when you move here, then why would you have a problem with making it enforceable by the city? You move here knowing our deed restrictions, and if you really plan to follow them, then it shouldn’t be a big deal if it’s enforceable by the city.”

But Conner says those enforceable restrictions will scare away new buyers and ultimately lead to a stagnant neighborhood. On its website, the Disney Streets residents opposed to the conservation district are calling it a “stagnation district”.

“Those new homes increase our property values, so they’re good for our neighborhood. I bought in this neighborhood because I knew progress was coming this way and our property values would go up, but this conservation district will put a stop to it. We are going to stunt the growth of our property values,” Conner says.

Conversely, Sherri Zeitman says those rebuilds would be bad for the neighborhood. She was raised in the Disney Streets, and she’s now living in her childhood home on Pinocchio Lane.

“When a neighborhood becomes a teardown neighborhood, builders move in and try to buy up the lots. So you only end up getting the value of land, not the house on it. They only pay you what the dirt is worth.”

One point both sides agree on is that there is too much misinforma- tion about the conservation district being spread throughout the Disney Streets.

“There’s friction in this neighborhood because of wrong information out there,” she says. “We want everyone to get the facts and weigh out the pros and cons and make an informed decision.”

Right now, City Councilman Ann Margolin is among those trying to glean information so she can make a well-informed decision. If the proposed conservation district passes a homeowners’ vote and then is approved by the City Plan Commission, she and her fellow councilmen (who traditionally leave such zoning decisions up to the neighborhood’s councilman) ultimately will make the call.

“I’m still in the process of talking to people and learning about the issues,” she says. “I’m weighing out the pros and cons, and hearing what all the sides have to say.”

Zeitman says she hopes that’s exactly what other neighbors will do this fall during a series of public information sessions.

“At this point, all we’re asking is that all the neighbors sit down and have a discussion about the possibility of having a conservation district. We don’t want this to divide our neighborhood — we want this to be a community discussion where we all have a say.”

—Marlena Chavira-Medford

in Formation from neighbors in favor of the conservation district, visit: disneystreets.org.

CaSa dE Vida, a respite care program for caregivers of early onset Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia, is offered weekly on Tuesdays from 9:30 a m -1:30 p m at NorthPark Presbyterian Church, 9555 N Central Expressway It’s strictly a social program, with no medications or health care administered Activities include morning snacks, exercise, bingo, crafts and music A $10 fee covers the day’s program; application required Call Ann Anderson at 972 783 8780 for information diSablEd amEriCaN VETEraNS Big D Chapter 57 meets every first Saturday at 1 p m at 8630 Thurgood Lane for discussions and lunch Meetings include various activities, presenters and topics All disabled veterans are welcome For information, call 214 343 8643 or email adjutant57@verizon net

ThE SPCa Of TEx aS runs an injured animal rescue ambulance service to help strays SPCA will respond to calls in our neighborhood from 8 a m -6 p m daily Field officers will evaluate injured animals and take them to the SPCA, Highland Park Animal Clinic or an emergency clinic for treatment 214 651 7387

TEEN COmmuNiTy biblE STudy meets Tuesdays from 6:308:30 p m at Schreiber Methodist Church Teens from North Dallas public and private high schools are invited 4525 Rickover For information call 972 3870188 or visit teencbs org

Education

CalliOPE, hillCrEST high SChOOl’S liTErary-arTS magaziNE won a First Place with Special Merit award from the American Scholastic Press Association The award was given to this annual publication for its 2008-2009 school year edition, and it’s the highest award presented by the group

ThE hillCrEST high SChOOl baNd needs donations to help pay for uniforms and instruments This year, the band has an annual budget of $1,200, which comes out to about $11 per student If you would like to help, contact Hillcrest parent Tamara Johnson at johnson75230@aol com hillCrEST TEaChEr SuSaN blaNChETTE has been elected vice president of the National Council for the Social Studies, the country s largest professional organization for social studies educators. Blanchette has taught both middle and high school in DISD, and she has more than 30 years of experience as an educator.

Volunteers

aSSiSTaNCE lEaguE Of dallaS is a volunteer group dedicated to assisting the elderly, children and the abused. Volunteers work in structured and established programs for Children’s Medical Center, Dallas Children’s Advocacy Center and Dallas ISD. For information, call 972.437.1239 or visit assistanceleagueofdallas.org.

CONTaCT CriSiS liNE is seeking volunteers to help callers through some of life’s most critical moments. Those interested will be taught crisis management techniques, develop their listening skills, and enhance their interactions with family, friends and co-workers. CONTACT Crisis Line specialists provide a caring human connection, a trained listening ear, and a connection to resources, to help people through tough times. For information, call 972.233.0866, ext. 311.

dallaS CaSa is seeking volunteers to train as advocates for abused and neglected children. Volunteers gather information for the court and work with the child welfare system and others to help quickly find a safe, permanent home for each child. To register for an upcoming information session, call 214.827.9603, ext. 228 or visit dallascasa.org.

fEral friENdS seeks volunteers to foster cats, assist with pet adoptions, and care for animals as needed. Volunteer times are flexible, and adoptions are Saturdays, noon to 4 p.m. at Petsmart, 16821 Coit. Free training is provided for all positions. For information, visit feralfriends.org or call 972.671.0429.

HAVE AN ITEM TO BE fEATurEd?

Please submit news items and/or photos concerning neighborhood residents, activities, honors and volunteer opportunities to editor@advocatemag. com or online at advocate.com/submit_ph_news. Our deadline is the first of the month prior to the month of publication.

12345 Inwood Road

Dallas, Texas 75244

972.387.8700

Join www.jesuitcp.org/admissions bishop lynch high school chase’s place

9750 Ferguson Rd. Dallas 75228/ 214.324.3607 www.bishoplynch.org. Recognized for student achievement, leadership, and innovation, Bishop Lynch High School continues to build on a rich heritage that prepares graduates for a lifetime of success. The mission of Bishop Lynch High School is to teach students “to strive for academic excellence, to seek truth, and to work for justice in the world.” To see that each student emerges with a well-rounded experience, Bishop Lynch offers first-rate academics, including the largest dual enrollment program of any private school in the state of Texas, extensive guidance as students prepare to enter higher education, and a widevariety of extracurricular and service activities.

14210 Marsh ln. addison / 75001 / 972.243.2676 Chase’s Place is a private day school program for children ages 5-14 with developmental disabilities including PDD/Autism, MR, neurological disorders, and acquired brain injuries. Program emphasizes development of functional skills through direct instruction, practical application, and therapeutic interventions with Speech, OT, PT, and Music therapy included.

Dallas acaDeMy

950 Tiffany Way Dallas / 214.324.1481.

Private coeducational school for grades 1-12 committed to teaching learning different students. Dallas Academy’s strength lies in its family atmosphere. Students are mentored by a dedicated, experienced staff of teachers who continually raise expectations while providing the tools and support necessary for success. Classes are small, with a student-teacher ratio of 8-to-1. Organization skills, self-discipline, time management, and solid academics instill students with genuine self-esteem. Complete sports program and a variety of extracurricular activities.

JesuiT college pRepaRaToRy

12345 inwood Road, Dallas 75244 / 972.387.8700 / www.jesuitcp.org. Jesuit Dallas is a private Catholic institution for young men. Since 1942, the school has provided a classical Jesuit Catholic education without regard for students’ race, creed, religion, national origin or ability to pay. Coupled with a rigorous student-centered curriculum, education goes beyond developing intellectual mastery to formation of the whole man. The school offers a broad array of faith formation, athletic and extracurricular activities as well as the most comprehensive community service program in the state. This broad approach to formation produces graduates who assume positions of leadership and service in Dallas and beyond, attesting to the school’s motto: Men for Others. lakehill pRepaRaToRy school leading to success. 2720 hillside Drive, Dallas, 75214 / 214.826.2931, www.lakehillprep.org Kindergarten through Grade 12 - Lakehill Preparatory School takes the word preparatory in its name very seriously. Throughout a student’s academic career, Lakehill builds an educational program that achieves its goal of enabling graduates to attend the finest, most rigorous universities of choice. Lakehill combines a robust, college-preparatory curriculum with opportunities for personal growth, individual enrichment, and community involvement. From kindergarten through high school, every Lakehill student is encouraged to strive, challenged to succeed, and inspired to excel. sT. John’s episcopal school

848 harter Rd. Dallas 75218 / 214.328.9131 www.stjohnsschool.org / Founded in 1953, St. John’s is an independent, co-educational day school for Pre-K through Grade 8. With a tradition for academic excellence, St. John’s programs include a challenging curriculum in a Christian environment along with instruction in the visual and performing arts, Spanish, German, French, and opportunities for athletics and community service. St. John’s goal for its students is to develop a love for learning, service to others, and leadership grounded in love, humility, and wisdom. Accredited by ISAS, SAES, and the Texas Education Agency.

WhiTe Rock noRTh school

9727 White Rock Trail Dallas / 214.348.7410. 2 Years through 6th Grade. 44 years of successful students! Our accelerated curriculum provides opportunity for intellectual and physical development in a loving and nurturing environment. Character-building and civic responsibility are stressed. Facilities include indoor swimming pool, skating rink, updated playground, and state-of-theart technology lab. Kids Club on the Corner provides meaningful after-school experiences. Summer Camp offers field trips, swimming, and a balance of indoor and outdoor activities designed around funfilled themes. Accredited by SACS. Call for a tour of the campus. www.WhiteRockNorthSchool.com.

Zion luTheRan school

6121 e. lovers ln. Dallas / 214.363.1630 Toddler care thru 8th Grade. Serving Dallas for over 57 years offering a quality education in a Christ-centered learning environment. Degreed educators minister to the academic, physical, emotional, social, and spiritual needs of students and their families. Before and after school programs, Extended Care, Parents Day Out, athletics, fine arts, integrated technology, Spanish, outdoor education, Accelerated Reader, advanced math placement, and student government. Accredited by National Lutheran School & Texas District Accreditation Commissions and TANS. Contact Principal Jeff Thorman.

B a P t IS t

Ga StON OaKS BaPtISt / Greenville Ave & Royal Lane

Sunday Worship 10:45 am / bible Study 9:30 am www.gastonoaks.org / 214.348.0958

PaRK cItIeS BaPtISt cHURcH / 3933 Northwest Pky / pcbc.org

All services 9:20 & 10:50. Traditional (Sanctuary), Comtemporary (Great Hall), bible Study (Church Campus) / 214.860.1500

WIlSHIRe BaPtISt / 4316 Abrams / 214.452.3100

Pastor George A. Mason Ph.D. / Worship 8:30 & 11:00 am bible Study 9:40 am / www.wilshirebc.org

dIS c IPle S Of cHRIS t

e a St dalla S cHRIStIaN cHURcH / 629 N. Peak Street

Sunday School 9:30 am / Worship 8:30 & 10:50 am

214.824.8185 / Rev. Deborah Morgan / www.edcc.org

ePIS c OPal

SaINt MIcHael aNd all aNGelS / 8011 Douglas at Colgate

Saturday 5:30 pm / Sunday 7:30, 8:45, 9:00, 11:00 am, 5:30 pm

Sunday School 10:00 am / www.saintmichael.org / 214.363.5471

e va NGelIcal

tRINIt Y HIllcReSt cHURcH (ePIScOPal) / 12727 Hillcrest Road

Sunday: Worship 10:30 am blended / 12:00 pm Kenyan / 7:00 pm Contemporary / 972.991.3601 / www.trinity-hillcrest.org

lU t H e R a N

ZION lUtHeRaN cHURcH & ScHOOl / 6121 E Lovers Ln.

Sunday: Sunday School 9:15 am, Worship 8:00 am, 10:30 am, & 6:00 pm / 214.363.1639 / www.ziondallas.org