[Vanhackspace] info about 45west upstairs

[Austin]

Happy heatwave! 45WEST turns one year old on August 1st, the official
first day that we started paying rent in '08. There are a few changes in
the works to make sure that we have a fabulous second year, so please
read the update carefully. Thanks to those of you who came out to
yesterday's members meeting, it was really wonderful to brainstorm
together. Questions, comments, concerns, kvetches, kudos, please contact
me directly. -Michael Bean (604) 801-7050

---

RENT is going up to $120 effective September 1st to allow us to break
even at 22 members -- our average membership in the last six months. To
maintain long term stability of the space, we need to be financially
viable. I hope that the $15 increase is not too onerous for anyone.

SECURITY is an issue, especially now that we have new neighbours. It is
more important than ever to always lock the door at the top of the
stairs, and always lock the door to the alley, so when someone is
leaving please walk them down and lock up behind them. Our best and most
reliable security system is still to avoid leaving anything lying around
that looks worth stealing -- put it in your locker instead.

STORAGE beyond the lockers is not available at 45WEST without prior
arrangement. I made a pile of miscellaneous items that have accumulated
in previous months by the upstairs door. Anything that hasn't found its
home by next week will go in the dumpster. Also there are two bicycles
left upstairs and they're lonely, please come and take them home.

LATE RENT has also become an issue, and we have come very close to
bouncing our rent cheque several times. Effective September 1st, there
will be a $40 fee for payment any later than the first of the month,
subtracted from the member's damage deposit (post-dated cheques are my
friend)

FOOD WASTE needs to be put in the garbage can in the kitchen if we want
to avoid having rats in the studio. Please help us maintain a clean
space. Someone also left the kettle on in the kitchen last week, which
is a seriously scary fire hazard. Please be careful.