What we’re all about
Learn about our mission statement, bylaws, committees, board members, and more.
Mission Statement (Proposed)
We’re neighbors working together to make Jackson Park a stronger, more connected place—one that’s safe, welcoming, and well cared for. We're looking out for each other and our shared home.
Further Detail (Proposed)
At the Jackson Park Neighborhood Association, we are committed to building a stronger, more connected community through mutual support and shared purpose. We work together to foster genuine neighborly relationships, offer mutual aid, support local small businesses, and care for our streets, green spaces, and our shared environment. We advocate for thoughtful, responsible development that reflects our neighborhood’s character while striving to make Jackson Park a safer, more beautiful place to call home. We are not a forum for complaints or politics—we are a hub for connection, collaboration, and community spirit.
Neighborhood Committees
The Jackson Park Neighborhood Association has four main committees.
Steering Committee: Organization, administration, communications, treasury, and more.
Development Committee: Improvements to our streets, sidewalks, greenery, and other parts of the neighborhood.
Social and Party Committee: Organizing good times and fun for the residents of Jackson Park.
Mutual Aid Committee: Providing support and resources to neighbors in need.
Bylaws of the Jackson Park Neighborhood Association (JPNA)
Here’s a draft of our bylaws. Please note that these are currently under discussion, and they may change.
Article I – Name and Purpose
Section 1: Name
The name of this organization is the Jackson Park Neighborhood Association (JPNA).
Section 2: Purpose
JPNA exists to:
Foster community connection
Promote neighborhood safety and beautification
Represent the interests of residents
Support civic engagement and inclusive decision-making
Article II – Membership
Section 1: Eligibility
All residents, property owners, and business owners within the Jackson Park neighborhood are welcome as members.
Section 2: Dues
There are no mandatory dues. Voluntary contributions may be accepted to support JPNA activities.
Article III – Meetings
Section 1: General Meetings
General meetings are open to all and will be held quarterly (four times per year). Dates and times will be announced in advance via email, flyers, and social media.
Section 2: Committee Meetings
Committees may meet as needed. Meetings can be scheduled by committee chairs and do not require approval by the full membership.
Section 3: Decision-Making
Whenever possible, decisions will be made by consensus. If needed, a simple majority vote will decide. Votes will be administered by a timed digital format.
Section 4: Board/Steering Committee Meetings
The Board/Steering Committee will meet as needed, with a current suggested minimum of quarterly meetings in order to plan that quarter's General Assembly.
Article IV – Leadership
Section 1: Board of Officers
The Board consists of:
Co-Chairs – (2) Co Chairs will oversee meetings and represent the association
Secretary – Keeps meeting notes, maintains records and digital files
Treasurer – Handles funds and provides financial updates
Webmaster - Builds and maintains website. Works with Communications to to fill out content
Communications - Handles emailing, WhatsApp, Newsletter, and Announcements
Committee Chairs - (1-2) Chairs per Committee
In the case of a tie vote the Chair can make a deciding vote.
Section 2: Terms and Elections
Officers are elected annually by members at a general meeting. Any member may nominate themselves or others. Officers may serve multiple terms.
Article V – Committees
Section 1: Formation
Committees may be formed to work on specific issues such as beautification, safety, events, or communication. A minimum of (7) members must volunteer to form a committee.
Section 2: Leadership
Each committee will select a chair or (2) co-chairs to organize meetings and report back to the general membership. Chair positions will be approved by vote at the general meeting.
Section 3: Working groups
Committees may form working groups to divide up work on committee designated activities that are aligned with JPNA’s mission and values.
Section 4: Autonomy
Committees may meet and act independently but must stay aligned with JPNA’s mission and values. Committees will report their work to the Board when requested and to the general public at all general meetings. In order to speak as the organization, agreement from the board is required.
Article VI – Amendments
Section 1: Process
Proposed amendments to these bylaws may be introduced at any general meeting. They must be shared with members in advance and approved by a majority vote at the following meeting.
Article VII – Conduct
Section 1: Inclusivity
All meetings and activities will be welcoming, respectful, and inclusive. Harassment or discrimination of any kind will not be tolerated.
Board Members
The following individuals are running to be part of the Board of the Jackson Park Neighborhood Association. They are currently nominees and are not yet appointed.
JPNA Co-Chair - Ellen Straus: Ellen has been a JP neighbor since 2020 and has a background in construction management
JPNA Co-Chair - Scott Burroughs: Scott has been a JP resident since 2024 and is an architect, handyman, and father of two little boys, and husband to an amazing wife.
Secretary - Rochelle Hudson: Works for a Kombucha company and has a keen interest in community organizing.
Webmaster - Paul Maplesden: Paul has been building websites for more than 20 years and is an experienced webmaster and content creator. Paul has already built an early version of the website (that you are looking at right now!)
Communication Director - Meagan Burroughs: Meagan is mother of two little boys. She is a Director of Customer Success for a tech company and spends her workday helping companies manage budgets for large projects.
Newsletter Manager - Diane Mooney: Diane is a longtime resident and knows how to get things done.
Social Party Committee Co-Chair - Lynda Wood: Lynda has been leading the way with our social planning and is more events to bring the community together.
Social Party Committee Co-Chair - Deb Freeman: Deb has been leading the way with our social planning and has hosted our first event - a happy hour at her house on Sevier St.
Development Committee Co-Chair - Scott Burroughs: Scott has been a JP resident since 2024 and is an architect, handyman, and father of two little boys, and husband to an amazing wife.
Development Committee Co-Chair - TBD
Mutual Aid Committee Co-Chair - Erica Yamaguchi: Erica is a long time resident of Jackson Park, a bike rider, and cares deeply for the well being of her community.
Mutual Aid Committee Co-Chair: Diane Mooney: Diane is a longtime resident and knows how to get things done.
Open position - Treasurer: (we don't have any money)