Attending: Bob Conte, Lauren Conte, Steve Krcelich, Heinz Mantel, Karen Mantel, Susan McClements, Jason Meade, Carl Pascarella, Carole Pascarella, David Riley, Jim Sweeney
President Heinz Mantel opened the meeting thanking Carl and Carole Pascarella and Karen Mantel for their time and effort in decorating the front entrances of the subdivision with Christmas wreaths. It was noted that one of the wreaths has been stolen and will have to be replaced.
Treasurer’s Report – In the absence of Treasurer Bob Weiss, President Mantel presented the Treasurer’s Report (see handout). There was mention of several lots in arrears and the intention of the Association to actively pursue collection of the overdue membership dues. Included in the 2012 budget is a forecast of a 20% increase in expenses mainly due to increased utility costs. It was noted that the Association is required by law to file a Business Entity Report with the Secretary of State. Miscellaneous items put to motion and unanimously approved:
The Association will seek outside review of finances and assistance for taxes.
Association President approval will be required for large expenses.
Association President has been added to the bank accounts.
A savings account will be opened for better protection of HOA assets.
Website – Webmaster and Communications Chairperson David Riley gave a presentation of the new neighborhood website available atwww.devonshirepointe.drupalgardens.com. The website is free of cost and user friendly with easy access to newsletters, association documents and current neighborhood events and notices. There was discussion with regard to notifying the neighborhood of the necessity of obtaining homeowners’ email addresses to keep everyone current on association updates.
Maintenance/Landscaping – Discussion of the need to solicit proposals for lawn mowing, landscaping, fertilization and irrigation. It was requested that Committee members Jim Sweeney and Jason Meade provide contracts for consideration and approval by March 1. A contract with Aquatic Weed Control was put to motion and unanimously approved for continued chemical treatment of Lake Taddington.
Social Committee Events – There was discussion regarding possible neighborhood events and soliciting volunteers to help with same. Suggestions include an Easter Egg Hunt, 4th of July Bike Parade and Night at the Cove. It was requested that Committee members Susan McClements and Carole Pascarella put together proposals and associated costs for approval by March 1 as well as seeking information from Saddlebrook on their policies for welcoming new neighbors. In addition, there was discussion of coordinating the annual Garage Sale with Saddlebrook and Fox Chase.
Neighborhood Watch – There was discussion as to whether or not a viable Neighborhood Watch could be put into place. It was requested that Communications Committee member Lauren Conte contact Saddlebrook for information on linking Devonshire Pointe to other Granger neighborhood watch committees by website and email communication as well as the possibility of creating a Safe Home program.
Vandalism – There was discussion regarding numerous reports of vandalism in the area and the need for every homeowner to be proactive in self-protection (keeping garage doors closed, inside doors locked, valuables and door openers not left in cars) as well as vigilant and not hesitant to call the non-emergency police phone number. There was emphasis on the need to have all neighbors sign up their email addresses with the association website in order to keep everyone informed and to coordinate neighborhood watch information and suspicious/criminal activity.