Ongoing Lake Discussion

Members of the Board discussed issues raised at the August 3 lake lot owner’s meeting. Several Board members could understand the issues raised by the lake lot owners as well as the issues raised by the Board. We believe we all want the lakes to be properly maintained, and if the lakes may ultimately need to be dredged, maybe we should consider maintaining the lakes as we go. Some of the Board members were concerned about the liability that could be raised as a result of ongoing maintenance. While we do carry liability insurance, the Board does not believe it is liable for what might happen on those lakes and does not believe the policy would cover such an accident since it is not common property. Dennis will contact the insurance agent to discuss.

Brian has done some additional research on lake maintenance and proposed a possible solution. If we purchase an aerating pump and assess a small additional fee to homeowners with a larger portion assessed to the lake owners, we could maintain the lakes as we go. Cost would be approximately $6000. This includes approximately $3500/year for electricity for 2 pumps, $1390/year for chemicals, $350 for each pump and $75 maintenance on each pump.

If we increase dues for homeowners by $25 this year, that will build a general lake maintenance fund of about $3100. If the lake lot owners also contribute an additional $125 this year, it will add about $1500 to the fund.

We need to establish the condition of the upper pond (possibly by and engineer) and determine whether or not more serious attention is needed. Bill is going to investigate whether or not the ponds need to be dredged and/or how deep they should be.

We need to assess our dues in comparison with other similar subdivisions. Our goal will be to develop a reasonable offer to present to the lake lot owners at the annual meeting. John will let us know how the lake lot owners react to our anticipated proposal.

2007 Budget

Mike and Dennis would like to try to lower the current costs in the budget. There was a debate regarding whether or not we should solicit bids for certain services. Most of the Board is happy with current contractors. Mike was concerned about the cost of the entry maintenance and mowing; John and Lisa believe that the entryway is very important and currently being maintained well by Brickman. We decided to stay with the current contractors for 2007.

Replacement of trees was raised. Bill asked if the Grounds Committee could go ahead and replace trees from here forward and bill the homeowner. Dennis was concerned with that approach without first contacting the homeowner. Bill will discuss and develop an approach with the Grounds Committee.

Contractor issue

There has been an ongoing billing dispute from Ralph Hill, the former lawn maintenance contractor. The last letter the Board sent to Mr. Hill addressed the billing differences. We received a subsequent letter from Mr. Hill demanding payment for those services we questioned, and threatening legal action. The Board unanimously agreed that we should not waiver on our position. Bill will review with Lynn Gray and will send a response to Mr. Hill from the Board, letting him know that we believe we have paid him in full and that we too have reviewed with legal counsel.

Next Meetings

Annual homeowner’s meeting to be held at the White River Library on November 30 at 7 pm.