A Morgan Creek HOA Board meeting and open forum was held Tuesday night, May 21. The meeting was well attended. For those of you who missed it below is a summary of the important issues discussed:
Chris announced reactivation of the compliance committee. He said there were 5 issues they would focus on. The committee was giving advance warning with enforcement action beginning in 30 days.
- Condition and existence of backflow valve covers.
- Condition and acceptable color of fences
- Sidewalk clearance and bush trimming
- Weed and lawn condition
- Appropriate application and coverage of yard bark.
James, head of the safety committee, reported problems with people holding events and allowing parking on both sides of the street creating a safety hazard. Enforcement of this issue is being investigated. Once permission is received from security vehicles may only park on one side of the street.
Mike reported that there is an active investigation of using reclaimed water for the lake instead of drinking grade water. If feasible this could provide substantial savings on our water bill now running in excess of $100,000 annually.
Walt said the Board received a letter in April from the golf course owners asking if we had broken off negotiations. The response was no, we are open to any negotiation moving toward a win-win for both parties. He also encouraged MC residents to come down to the clubhouse/restaurant for Thursday supper and meet ‘n greet. This is proving to be a good opportunity to enjoy some good casual food and drink and meet your neighbors.
Deb announced that the welcoming committee is being formed and looking for volunteers. She also announced the ARC is working with Kelly Moore Paints to publish a book of preapproved house and fence paint colors. A Kelley Moore representative gave a short pitch on the program and offered residents ID cards which would be good for up to a 30% discount on paint purchases.
One homeowner brought up the lack of transparency in attorney costs covering general and golf course issues. He asked for a history and running total.
The above comment brings up a broader concern. In the new board’s first meeting it promised financial reporting at the meetings. It is quite disappointing that this has not yet been implemented. We would welcome a treasurer’s report at each meeting with commentary on the goods and bads. It would go a long way toward improving transparency and good communications.
Questions raised by some homeowners concerning the gates revealed there is still considerable confusion and disinformation on why they were installed. We would encourage the Board to publish a history and rationale for why we went to gates. It was not for better security. Briefly, it was mainly an economic decision to spend capital funds to save substantial operation money, mostly for the ever growing costs for greeters. The gates cost approximately $500,000 to be paid out over a term loan. The gates were in operation for approximately 8 months of 2018. The total security expense for 2018 dropped by $113,000 year over year. That is how it is supposed to work. In our view, the board owes the community a much more detailed analysis on what and what not to expect for both cost savings and for security concerns going forward.
On a lighter note, one speaker announced there are various social groups active in the community which have not been widely publicized. Some examples are: An empty nesters group which among other things, hosts semiannual parties. Bridge group. Bunco group. Book club. Wine tasting group. Ladies lunch group. Bocce ball games. It was suggested that a section of Town Square be set up to help announce these types of activities with contact information. Angie from Associa said she was supportive and will look into it.
Once again, the meeting was well run and informative. Kudos to the Board!