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Neal leaving association post

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By KENNETH KNIGHT

kknight@tampatrib.com

Published: October 21, 2009

TEMPLE CREST - The end of a leadership era is about to occur in this 85-year-old neighborhood.

Terry Neal, arguably Temple Crest's most politically active leader, is preparing to step down as civic association president after four years at the helm.

His term ends in December, and Temple Crest Civic Association bylaws prevent him from seeking a third two-year run.
Civic association members selected an elections committee Oct. 12 to compile a slate of candidates for the next election to be held before the end of the year. They will seek residents interested in running for association president, vice president, secretary and treasurer, all volunteer posts.

"I believe it's time for someone new to lead," Neal said in an interview last week. "New leadership brings fresh ideas."

Neal, who serves on environmental task forces in Tampa and Temple Terrace, said his mission has been to bring greater exposure to the tranquil, working class neighborhood where the Hillsborough River enters the city of Tampa and streets are draped by canopied oaks.

"I have tried to bring more attention to the historic nature of the neighborhood and economic benefits of its proximity to USF," he said.

Neal has been credited with shepherding the civic association through the 40th Street widening and construction of its new bridge.

When completed, the street improvement project will place Temple Crest at the core of a major corridor leading to the University of South Florida, Busch Gardens, nearby hospitals and a high-tech research park south of the USF campus.

"I want people to be aware that we are here," Neal said. "The entire neighborhood is on the river basically and is kind of hidden.

"Someone said maybe I shouldn't tell anyone and keep it a secret, but I don't want to."

Linda Hewitt, Neal's friend and neighbor on River Hills Drive, said she has been impressed by Neal's many accomplishments, including his dedication to the community, the river, the environment, public safety and his efforts to keep residents informed about important civic issues.

"Terry has been a great advocate for the area, and it hasn't been easy," she said.

Hewitt said she admires Neal's willingness to challenge government officials and question policies he thinks are unfair.

In recent years, Hewitt and Neal joined forces to petition the Tampa transportation department to install traffic-calming devices and lower the speed limit from 30 mph to 25 mph on River Hills Drive east of 40th Street. Tampa police increased traffic patrols to target speeders, but no speed laws were changed nor traffic-calming devices added.

Neal said he is most concerned about inequities in city services, noting the lack of a sidewalk and city water along the street where he lives.

Tampa Water Department officials estimate it would cost more than $160,000 to extend a water main down the four-block stretch of River Hills Drive.

"All Tampa neighborhoods should have basic services first," Neal said.

Neal, who has slowed his pace since suffering a mild stroke this year, said he plans to keep speaking up until city leaders address the fairness issue.

John Dausman, a former president of the civic group, said Neal is responsible for bringing recognition to Temple Crest at city hall and the County Center.

"Every president of the civic association in the past 20 years has brought something different and special to the group," Dausman said. "Terry has brought political awareness and involvement.

"It's time for someone new to come along to offer a new flavor."

Reporter Kenneth Knight can be reached at (813) 259-7413.

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