Written y Rachel Bundy
The Shingle Creek and Victory Neighborhood Associations are excited to announce their intent to explore a potential merger. This initiative aims to create a unified organization that will enhance community services, expand resources, and strengthen advocacy for residents. While the boards have voted on the intent to merge, final decisions will be made after robust community discussions and input[1] .
Why explore a merger? The idea of merging began in early 2024 as both organizations faced reduced funding from City resources. By potentially joining forces, Shingle Creek and Victory seek to better leverage volunteers, pool resources, and expand their impact on the community.
With support from the City of Minneapolis Shared Resources Fund, a steering committee has been formed to assess the feasibility of a merger. The Neighborhood and Community Relations (NCR) Department is working alongside both associations to ensure the process is transparent, inclusive, and community-centered.
Potential benefits of a merger: This collaboration could bring significant benefits to residents, including:
- Expanded services: A wider variety of programs, workshops and events tailored to both neighborhoods’ needs.
- Improved efficiency: Streamlined operations for better service delivery and resource use.
- Unified advocacy: A stronger, collective voice to address shared concerns and promote development.
- Enhanced resources: Combined funding and volunteer efforts to support larger initiatives and foster innovation.
Opportunities for community engagement: Your input is vital to shaping this potential new organization. Opportunities to get involved include:
- Sharing ideas and concerns: Participate in community meetings or submit feedback via email.
- Shaping the organization: Help brainstorm ideas for programs, bylaws and the board structure.
- Joining committees: Play a key role in ensuring the transition reflects community priorities.
What will change? If the merger proceeds, here’s what you can expect:
- Programs and services: Most current offerings will continue, with potential for new enhancements. Programs unique to each neighborhood will be evaluated for integration.
- Leadership and structure: A unified board will include representatives from both neighborhoods to ensure balanced governance. New bylaws will guide the organization.
- Identity: A new name will be selected to reflect shared values while honoring the unique identities of both neighborhoods.
How to stay informed and get involved: We’re committed to keeping the community informed and engaged throughout this process. Here’s how you can stay involved:
- Attend the Community Meeting, Thursday, February 20, 6:30-8 p.m. at Corner Coffee, 4155 Thomas Ave N.
- For access to all discussion resources and updates visit: victoryneighborhood.org/shinglecreekvictorymerger/.
- Provide feedback online: Email shinglecreekandvictorymerger@gmail.com; Social media comment period is January 21 – February 28, 2025.
- Neighborhood Meetings:
- Shingle Creek: 2nd Tuesday of each month at 6:30 p.m., Creekview Community Center. Board vote for merger will occur on March 11, 2025.
- Victory: 4th Wednesday starting January 2025, 6:30-8:00 p.m., Corner Coffee. Board vote for merger will occur on March 11, 2025.
- Social Media: Follow updates on Facebook: Shingle Creek NA or Victory Neighborhood.
- Scan QR Code or follow link to complete our survey: https://forms.gle/zroJa8Mgi8VCCotq8
- Volunteer: Join committees, attend meetings, or help with events to shape the future organization.
Next steps: Community Engagement: Ongoing discussions through public meetings, newsletters and social media. Legal Exploration: Drafting a resolution and bylaws with guidance from Legal for Good PLLC. Decision-Making: Boards will vote on the resolution after gathering community input. Celebration: If the merger is finalized, events will celebrate the new organization.
What does this mean for you? Your membership and involvement in either neighborhood association will carry over seamlessly to the new organization, should the merger proceed. You’ll continue to enjoy access to programs, events and volunteer opportunities.
By pooling resources, engaging residents, and fostering collaboration, Shingle Creek and Victory aim to create a stronger, more connected community.
For more info or to get involved, visit the neighborhood websites or contact the Steering Committee at shinglecreekandvictorymerger@gmail.com.
While the boards have voted on the intent to merge, they will make a final decision on March 11 after reflecting on comments and input gathered from the community.