The Springs Board of Directors Meeting
APPROVED  MINUTES
December  5, 2006 – Fiesta Room 

Attendance -- The following board members were in attendance:  Pres. Gene McGaughey, VP Mary Yager, Secy. Suzy Baker, and Committee Chairs Dick D’Angelo, Jim Rusk, Henny Armenta, Carl Sparfeld and Treasurer Paul Walter. There were 29 people in attendance including board members.  

Call to Order – President Gene McGaughey called the meeting to order at 2:00 p.m.  The Secretary announced that there was a quorum in attendance.  The agenda was approved as presented.  

Gene thanked everyone for coming to this meeting, that we appreciate their input, and reminded them of the Open Forum Rules.   

Appeal to Board –  Jeannie McGaughey requested time to bring a matter before the board regarding rocks along the exercise area perimeter on the walking trail and how the matter had been handled by the Grounds Committee.  It was discussed at length and Ron Shaffer volunteered to move the rocks prior to Grounds Chairman Henny Armenta mowing each time, but this was deemed unnecessary by board members. 

MOTION:  “That we leave the rocks out of the exercise perimeter area to make it easier for the riding mower to mow.”  M/S/C   (Motion/Seconded/Carried) 

Secretary Report – Suzy Baker asked for comments/changes/corrections to the November minutes.   

MOTION:  “Moved that the November 6, 2006 Board of Directors Minutes be approved as written and filed.”  M/S/C   

Financial Report – Paul Walter presented the November 30, 2006 Treasurer’s Report.  The HOA has $228,600 in assets, the bulk is in the Reserve Fund and $73,000 is in the Operating Fund.  We will have a carry-over to 2007 – possibly as much as $60,000.  We haven’t spent as much as anticipated in 2006.  When all of the 2007 HOA dues are received, we should have $190,000 income.  And, even though some of this money has been received in 2006, it won’t be reflected in the books until January 2007.  

Committee Reports: 
Architectural Review – Dick D’Angelo reported that several projects had been approved by the ARC during the previous two months, some of which included a wall around property, a satellite dish, a screen door, a back yard fence, a trellis, and glass panels.  A request for additional tree trimming on the Dorn Property was denied because Dorn had trimmed the trees back in May (at our request) and it was felt that it was inappropriate to request them to trim the trees again.  A follow-up report was given on the problem of a tree which was causing the wall/sidewalk to crack across the street from the Rec. Center.  (Refer to August 1, 2006 Minutes.)  Reluctantly, the homeowner has removed the offending tree. 

Streets & Building –  Jim Rusk reported that there has been a problem at TEP due to the illness of one of their staff members.  Our point of contact had a stroke and nobody has been checking his email messages and they are doing nothing to replace him.  Jim is trying to reestablish contact with someone at TEP to get some of our street lights serviced.  Roy Erickson, an expert on streets and on the GVCCC, has agreed to come here next week and meet with Ron Shaffer and Jim Rusk about the future of our streets.  A report will be available next month. 

Grounds – Henny Armenta reported that the Comica Park has been cleaned up and she thanked the volunteers that helped.  There are 3-4 parks that will be refurbished next year.  The East wash (by the entrance) was cleaned up and looks great!   One of these washes belongs to GVR and the other is ours.  Sometimes we clean up their wash and they sometimes clean up ours.  

Ron Shaffer presented a detailed report on the Wolf Run Commons area.  Briefly, eight islands were created by HOA volunteers.  We obtained 42 ten-ton truckloads (15 yds/load) for $20/load/$800.  The last two loads were delivered free.  Thanks to Ron’s efforts, the dirt (and all the additional perimeter rock) was obtained from the county drainage project (across Continental at our Frontage Road entrance by the Post Office). Had we purchased that amount of dirt from a local vendor it would have cost us $10,000. (with no additional rocks).   Ron saved us an estimated $9,200 – a big thanks to Ron!!!  Because of this savings, it is anticipated that the project can be completed within the budget guidelines.  There was no money budgeted in 2007 for landscaping on the islands and volunteers have helped plant some desert plants.  In addition, unsolicited donations have been offered by Wolf Run and Golden Lynx homeowners to purchase more expensive plants to populate the islands.  This is being looked into.  Rip rap will be spread on the slopes in January boarding the walls on the rear of the homes on Golden Lynx to prevent erosion on the slopes.   These homeowners who had planted plants and trees in the common area were asked to remove them so that the landscape will be ready when the rip rap is delivered.  The aim is to have a uniform appearance in the common area. 

SRS – Gene McGaughey reported that the Annual Meeting for Santa Rita Springs will be held in February. 

Social – Mary Yager reported that the schedule for 2007 pot lucks is now available and that the day has been changed to MONDAY instead of Friday nights in the Anza Room.  The first pot luck will be held on January 8, 2007 at 5 p.m.    Happy Hours on the Fiesta Deck will be held, as before, on WEDNESDAYS, the 3^rd week of the month from 3-5 p.m. 

For December, a special program of sing-along Christmas Carols will be hosted by Bill Perry and it will feature Mike Kearns (and his guitar) leading the singing.  Program will be on December 17 at 5:00 p.m. in the Fiesta Room.  Everybody is welcome and they should bring goodies to share. 

Light Bulbs – Harold Moberly said it has been a quiet month for replacing burned out lightbulbs – except on Calle De La Pelotita.  Funny, but many lights were out on that street!

Weeds & Sidewalk Overhangs – President McGaughey reported that we need a person to take over the Weeds & Sidewalk Overhang committee responsibility.  There will be a walk-around to inspect the property sometime in December and he anticipated a minimal amount of letters that will have to be sent out requesting owners to cut back their bushes and deal with their weeds.

Unfinished Business:
Nominating Committee --  Mary Yager reported that we have 4 openings and that there are only 2 people running for positions on the 2007 Board.  We will definitely need nominations from the floor at the Annual Meeting to fill these 2 positions.  Remember:  If you nominate someone from the floor, you must have their permission in order to do so.   Question came up:  Do votes need to be counted at the Annual Meeting?  Answer:  Yes.  If the Board does not receive nominations and is not full, then the Board can appoint people to fill in the empty slots.  President McGaughey pointed out that we need to run our own organization – we don’t want to hire a management company to run our development.  We live here and we need to govern ourselves!  If we have to hire a management company it will probably cost us something in the area of $35,000/year.  This means an estimated additional cost of between $4 - $12 per household per month.  We need our own people to step up and help out for the next few years.  And, we need to stick to the Bylaws and CC&R’s to do so.  GET INVOLVED – volunteer for a committee if not the Board.  Please, we need your help!! 

Bylaws – Mary Yager reported that the Bylaw committee will be meeting tomorrow.  She will get things together for the new Board in January.   

It was also brought up that every one on the new Board should attend a Pima College Course on Legislative Updates.  Office Manager Lucinda has the information. 

Emergency Access Committee – Larry Urbine reported that in October there had been a meeting held on the subject of emergency access from the Springs and that, in addition to Larry and his wife Marie, attendees included Gene McGaughey, folks from the Sheriff’s Department and the Fire Department as well as Rick Ellis (golf Pro) from Torres Blances.  It is wonderful that Rick Ellis is very receptive to our dilemma of finding an alternative emergency exit from The Springs.  He verbally said that exiting East of their golf course would be permissible.  It is possible to get out of here that way now.  Larry will get photos, etc. and have another meeting and finalize an emergency exit plan from the Springs. 

Blue Fox Committee – Lance Johnson reported on the two major problem areas experienced on the berm in back of Blue Fox.  1)  Erosion of the steep hill and 2)  Sight and sound problems.   The berm was planted with various plants including trees, shrubs, cacti and native grasses by the developer to provide sound and sight relief from the Tucson Power Electric sub-station and the Phelps Dodge water pumping stations that are located just a few yards beyond the berm.  Due to a strong herbicide that was used sometime in 2003 or 2004 and the disrepair of the irrigation system, virtually all of the grass and many of the shrubs and cacti have been killed off.  The south berm is steep and will eventually erode if not protected.  Several landscapers have been consulted and all agree that the way to stabilize the berm is with rooted plants.  A Blue Fox committee was formed and a summary of their findings was presented to the Board last spring.  The recommendations were accepted but funding was postponed to the next budget year – which is 2007.  The committee, on its own, cleaned up the area, repaired the irrigation system including lines and valves and determined an appropriate watering schedule to salvage the remaining plants.  Lance requested the Board to reconsider adding money to the 2007 budget to add rip rap to the steep areas and plant cacti and foliage to buffer the sound and sight problems.  Upon discussion, it was decided to ask the offending companies to help with the sound problem. 

MOTION:  “That the Board send a letter to the appropriate person at Phelps Dodge and at Tucson Electric Power Company requesting noise abatement around their facilities.”  M/S/C 

It was further pointed out that the Blue Fox committee and the Grounds committee need to work together and come up with a joint proposal and present it to the Board at the next meeting.  

MOTION:  “That $3,000 be put into the 2007 budget to be earmarked for the Blue Fox south side improvements, monies to be spent pending presentation of specific details to the Board from the Blue Fox committee.”  M/S/C 

New Bulletin/Communication Boxes  –  Lance Johnson reported on the prototype bulletin board that he built last spring.  It was determined that a few changes be made for the other bulletin boards to be built:  1)  Enlarge the size to allow for 6 sheets of paper.  2)  Provide thicker cork for easier pinning.  3)  Make the case deeper to allow for longer pins.  Lance estimates that the cost for building six additional bulletin boards could be as much as $750, but probably more likely in the area of $669.  We had a previous estimate of $4,000 to buy these boxes and Lance can save us approximately $3,300 by building them himself.  Hats off to Lance!!! 

MOTION:  “That $1,000 be approved to cover the cost of 6 new communication boxes to be built by Lance Johnson.”  M/S/C 

2007 Annual Meeting:  Annual Meeting date is Tuesday, January 9, 2007, in the Anza Room of the Santa Rita Recreation Center, 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.  Office Manager, Lucinda reminded the Board to review the packet she prepared and she will take it to the printer this week.  In order to be current for the end of the year, the Treasurer’s report must be added to the packet the morning of the meeting and Board members should remember to arrive at 9:00 a.m. to help assemble the packets.  After the Annual Meeting the new Board will meet to establish new officer positions.  Lucinda will have 100 copies of the report made to hand out to attendees.  And, Social Chairman, Mary Yager will ask Mike Kearns about bringing cookies!   

New Business:
First Meeting of Board for 2007: 
Remember that the first meeting of 2007 will be on Monday, January 8 from 1-4 p.m. in the Fiesta Room.   At that meeting, the Blue Fox committee is scheduled to present a detailed report. 

Holiday Decorations:
A big thanks to Ernie and Debbie Cox for all their effort in putting up Christmas decorations at the gate entrance area.  Really looks nice – thanks Ernie and Debbie!! 

GVCCC:
Treasurer Paul Walter requested President McGaughey to have paperwork ready so we can join GVCCC the first of the year.  It was determined that Lucinda has the paperwork and she will work with Paul on getting everything prepared.

Taxes HOA Must Pay:
Treasurer Walter reminded us that even though we are a non-profit, we are not tax exempt – we still have to pay taxes.  He said we must pay at the rate of about 30%.  Do we pay income tax out of Operating Budget or Reserve Fund?  Paul thinks it should come from the Reserve Fund.  Therefore, he needs to open up a new line item under the Reserve Fund for taxes and he needs to pay these taxes out of this account. 

Open Forum:
Blue Fox/Via De La Fonda Common Area Berm:
A HOA member requested the Board to reconsider asking folks who live along Blue Fox and Via De La Fonda’s common berm and who have made improvements contiguous to their property to NOT have to remove these improvements which are on common ground.  President McGaughey responded by stating that common grounds belong to everyone and that we must stick to the documents that govern this development.  It was suggested that a Via De La Fonda/Blue Fox Berm committee be formed and get input from homeowners along this berm as to what they want done.  Joe Barton will do a survey and report back to the Board.   The whole berm should look alike – all common grounds need to be similar.  The Grounds committee will wait a couple of months before doing anything on the common berm -- they will wait until the new committee comes up with suggestions as to what the entire area will look like. 

Our governing documents are the CC&R’s and a Policy Book was established so folks could easily read what they need to know instead of wading thru the entire CC&R’s.  Bottom line is that the homeowners and the governing Board all need to follow the policies that were originally established when this development was first began – which is exactly what this Board is doing. 

Front Gate Area Plantings:
A HOA member pointed out that he thought the area around the front gate now looks overcrowded.  At first we had desert plants and now we have plants that need water.  Has the emphasis changed?  Grounds committee chairman Henny stated that she needed to fix a sprinkler head that is on and should not be. 

SRS Garden Club:
Doug Kile, representing the SRS Garden Club, read a letter to the Board stating that the Grounds committee appears to not be working with the Garden Club committee.  Communications between Grounds and Garden is sorely lacking.  Garden wants to help and has money available to help with the parks that are scheduled for refurbishing in 2007.  It was suggested that the Garden Club put together a plan and present it to the Board.  We are open to suggestions from the Garden Club – but they need to remember that they do not run the Grounds committee.  Their suggestions are welcome and the Garden Club needs to know that we definitely do want their help.

Thanks to Everybody in Attendance – Gene thanked everybody for their participation and input. 

MOTION:  “There being no further business, move to adjourn the meeting.”  M/S/C 

Adjourn  --  Meeting adjourned at 4:15 p.m. 

Suzy Baker, Secretary   

(These minutes were approved as written at the Board Meeting on January 8, 2007.)

The Springs Board of Directors Meeting
UNAPPROVED  MINUTES
November 6, 2006 – Fiesta Room

Attendance -- The following board members were in attendance:  Pres. Gene McGaughey, VP Mary Yager, Secy. Suzy Dei, and Committee Chairs Dick D’Angelo, Bernie Serek, Jim Rusk, Henny Armenta, Carl Sparfeld and Treasurer Paul Walter. There were 26 people in attendance including board members.

Call to Order – President Gene McGaughey called the meeting to order at 9:30 a.m.  The Secretary announced that there was a quorum in attendance.  The agenda was approved as presented.

Gene thanked everyone for coming to this meeting, that we appreciate their input, and reminded them of the Open Forum Rules. 

Secretary Report – Suzy Dei asked for comments/changes/corrections to the October minutes and Paul Walter had a couple of changes.  They have been incorporated into the finished minutes.

MOTION:  “Moved that the October 3, 2006 Board of Directors Minutes be approved as changed and then filed.”  M/S/C  (Motion/Seconded/Carried)

Financial Report – Paul Walter presented the October 31 Treasurer’s Report.  The HOA has $247,033 in assets. Paul pointed out that he is keeping the majority of the Reserve Fund dollars in CD’s to earn the maximum amount of interest possible.  He also said that we will be spending more money on parks next year than what is in the fund but there is actually enough money to cover the expenditures.  The P&L states that we have extra money now but there are upcoming expenses that will be utilizing these funds.

Gene pointed out that the Reserve Fund was set up to meet the costs of refurbishing pieces of property that the HOA is responsible for (like parks).  We initially thought the life of a park would be more than what it actually has turned out to be.  Therefore, the Reserve Fund will take a drastic hit now but in the next few years it will even out and not huge expenditures will be needed to keep the parks functional.  Gene stated that it is not a good idea to “borrow” funds from this Reserve Fund in the future.  It would be like the government has done by taking money from the Social Security fund – it does not get replaced!  So, future boards need to adhere to this practice of NOT using Reserve Fund monies for anything other than the purpose for which the Reserve Fund was established.  Discussion ensued regarding Reserve Funds and problems in removing dollars.

GVCCC --  This item on the Agenda was moved up to this point in the meeting because it needed to be decided if our HOA will be joining this association and if so, it needs to be added to the budget before the budget is approved.

Gene gave a little history on our participation with GVCCC by telling us that our HOA had been approached several years ago about joining.  We could not join at that time because our builder was still in control of the HOA.  Now that we are self-governing, and we have been approached again by GVCCC, we feel we need to make a decision about joining now.  We have been using GVCCC occasionally and they have been helping us, even though they were not required to do so because we have not been an member.  Due to the number of homes in our development, we could yield a good amount of power within GVCCC.  We could have Springs at Santa Rita folks on various GVCCC committees.  A detailed proposal has been passed along to our HOA Board Members and all but Henny and Paul have read it.  It will cost our HOA $3,552 this year to join ($8.00 x 440 homes) but in the future years, our dues will be $5.50 per household.  This amounts to only about 1 to 1-1/2% of our total budget.  It was discussed at length by all Board members.

MOTION:  “That The Springs at Santa Rita HOA join GVCCC.”  M/S/C                  (unanimously approved)

2007 Budget:  Discussion ensued on a line-by-line basis of what has been presented to Paul to make up the 2007 Budget.  It was suggested that the Newsletter be mailed out to all homeowners 4 times a year unless they return a card asking us to send the Newsletter to them via e-mail.  (A card will be placed in the upcoming mailing for homeowners to fill out and return giving us their current e-mail address for this purpose.)  Paul stated that since the HOA dues had been raised last year, there is an automatic built-in excess which was calculated to cover us for a few years down the road.  Also, Paul has built in a safety net figure if anything grossly unusual should require our funding.  Bottom line is that we have $25,000 available now that has not already been committed to something else.

MOTION:  “That the 2007 Budget be accepted, as modified by two changes (add money so that Newsletters can be mailed out to all homeowners 4 times a year and remove the line item suggested for Blue Fox Improvements) – and that the deficit of $22,000 be covered by the Surplus carried over from the 2006 Actual.”  M/S/C

The $35,000 for the Wolf Run project is Capital Expenditures and it is coming out of Operating Budget.

Committee Reports:  All committee reports were suspended until next month’s meeting due to amount of time needed to discuss and approve the 2007 Budget.

Architectural Review –
Streets & Building –
Grounds –
SRS –
Social –
Light Bulbs –
Weeds & Sidewalk Overhangs –

Unfinished Business:
Bylaws –
Blue Fox Committee –
Nominating Committee -- 
New Bulletin/Communication Boxes  –  
Emergency Access Committee –
Bulletin Boards: 
Kiosk by Front Gate:

Annual Meeting:  Annual Meeting date is Tuesday, January 9, 2007, in the Anza Room of the Santa Rita Recreation Center, 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.  All officers and committee reports should be emailed to Lucinda by November 26, 2006.  Reports are needed from President, Secretary, and the following committees:  Nominations, ARC, Grounds, Streets, By-Laws, Social and any other standing committees such as Light Bulbs and Weeds.  They need be only one or two paragraphs in length and be sure to have them proofed before submission.  Remember that the first meeting of 2007 will be on Monday, January 8 from 1-4 p.m. in the Fiesta Room.

New Business:
Open Forum:

Thanks to Everybody in Attendance – Gene thanked everybody for their participation and a job well done on the 2007 Budget.

MOTION:  “There being no further business, move to adjourn the meeting.”  M/S/C

Adjourn  --  Meeting adjourned at 11:50 a.m.

Suzy Dei, Secretary 

(These minutes are subject to approval at the Board Meeting on December 5, 2006.)

The Springs Board of Directors Meeting
APPROVED  MINUTES
October 3, 2006 – Fiesta Room

Attendance -- The following board members were in attendance:  Pres. Gene McGaughey, VP Mary Yager, Secy. Suzy Dei, and Committee Chairs Dick D’Angelo, Bernie Serek, Jim Rusk, Carl Sparfeld and Treasurer Paul Walter. Henny Armenta was out of town and could not attend.   There were 19 people in attendance including board members.  

Call to Order – President Gene McGaughey called the meeting to order at 2:00 PM.  The Secretary announced that there was a quorum in attendance.  The agenda was approved as presented.  

Gene said that there will be a meeting of GVR on October 4 at 9 a.m. regarding the unfinished space in the SRS Rec Center on the second floor – the space that the Camera Club wants to occupy.  Please attend if you can. 

Secretary Report – Suzy Dei said that Paul and Lucinda Walter had a number of corrections/additions to the September minutes and they would be incorporated into the finished minutes.  

MOTION:  “Moved that the September 5, 2006 Board of Directors Minutes be approved as amended/corrected and then filed.”  M/S/C  (Motion/Seconded/Carried) 

Financial Report – Paul Walter presented the September 30 Treasurer’s Report.  The HOA has $254,090 in assets, of which $161,847 is in the Reserve Fund.  Paul also had a proposed budget for next year but has only had input from one person (Jim Rusk).  He needs input from the Grounds Committee and the ARC Committee, as well as from VP Mary Yager for printing, postage, etc. for the bylaw revisions.  Also, the Blue Fox Committee needs to get their dollar requests to Paul – a $2,000 figure had previously been talked about for next year.  Paul said there had been a Reserve Committee meeting last week.  They reworked 30 years of projections.  The life of the parks is changing from 15 years back to 10 years.  Expenses will be heavier next year but will be cut back in subsequent years.  Insurance is figured at $5,000 for 2006.  Our groundskeeper is no longer under Worker’s Comp Ins, but our Office Manager is still covered under this plan.  The amount paid last year should cover Lucinda’s portion for this coming year.  Paul said he has enough money allocated for attorneys for this year.  He also pointed out that the HOA must pay 37% tax on interest gained.  Is there enough money built in the 2007 budget for postage?  Regular printing, etc. is already built-in.  The November meeting will be largely devoted to the 2007 Budget.  

Committee Reports:
Architectural Review – Dick D’Angelo reported that ARC activity has been light this past month.  He has sent out letters regarding clean-up of common areas, trees that needed trimming and side yard problems.  There had been a problem with two homes on Crystal regarding trees needing trimming and this has been successfully resolved and everybody is now happy.   

A few months ago there had been discussion about a tree that is moving out a concrete wall.  Gene is taking care of this problem and has sent a letter to the homeowner along with aerial view photos which show that the property line goes down the middle of the gully area.  The tree is on their property and they need to deal with it.  Owners plan on being here the first week in November and this will be settled when they arrive. 

There was discussion about the Tree Policy language and it was decided to drop the suggestion and leave the verbiage as it currently is in the policy. 

Bernie Serek stated that we have several problems:

1)  Greenery is worse this year due to rain and growth.

2)  Neighbors are at each other’s throats – 22% of the complaints involve trees on private property.

3)  Trees trimmed this year will have to be looked at again next year.

4)  Put things into tree policy:  trees can not exceed roof lines and must be contained within the property lines.

5)  Eliminate clause for co-payment – it is not right that others must pay when a homeowner does not trim his own trees.

6)  Do not plant pine trees any longer!! 

Gene pointed out that all of the above is in the tree policy except overhangs on walls.  Gene, Bernie and Dick will go over the Tree Policy.  But, the only time the HOA is affected is when a view is obstructed and people complain or the tree problem is on common grounds.  Neighbors can cut limbs off trees that are overhanging their property. 

Note:  For any new trees that are to be planted by any homeowner – a request MUST go to the ARC for approval BEFORE any planting is done. 

Streets & Building – Jim Rusk thanked Mike Kearns for replacing the “no golf carts & no bikes” sign.  Jim said work is progressing diligently but not swiftly on the south entrance.  As far as a gate is concerned, put money in the budget for next year.  The missing portable Stop signs were found in the office.  

Moving trucks coming in and out of The Springs need to be aware that the clearance height is 13 ft. 9 in. on the NORTH side of the entrance gate (yes, you have to drive “in” using the “out” lane) because this side has more clearance than the other side does.   It was suggested moving the abutment at the south gate area but the initial turn is too difficult for a large van to make.  Jim is to check out getting trucks in and out. 

Grounds – Henny Armenta was out of town and did not attend this meeting.  Report from Grounds will have to wait until next month. 

SRS – Gene McGaughey reported that there has been a proposal from SRS to our HOA that the SRS business files will be stored in our HOA office and SRS will pay our office manager for any work that she might do for the SRS at $20/hour in addition to reimbursing her for any office supplies used.  Lucinda Walter is to review the proposal and get back to the board with her comments. 

Social – Mary Yager reported that there have been no “Meet ‘N Greets” over the summer but that the monthly Pot Lucks have continued all summer.  We are all waiting for Bill and Kay Perry to return to resume the wonderful job they do in running these monthly pot lucks.  We are also eagerly anticipating return of the snowbirds. 

Christmas caroling was brought up by Larry Urbine.  He said that last year knocking on doors seemed to be a problem for many folks because we were interrupting dinner, etc.  Larry thought the timing was bad.  Mary will look into this further and report back so that we will have a clear direction for Christmas caroling this year. 

Light Bulbs – Harold Moberly reported that the 40 watt bulbs are holding up well and by purchasing 40 watts instead of 25 watt bulbs has saved the HOA a lot of money.  Consequently, the amount budgeted for 2006 is higher than the amount actually spent.  Hurrah!!  Good going, Harold!!  

Weeds & Sidewalk Overhangs – Gene said that he has taken over this committee and that 100 letters had been mailed out.  Enforcement letters will be used – the second letter has a statement about fines or something like “we will take care of it and bill the homeowner.”  It was suggested that we add an additional fee on top of the charge so that the homeowner won’t take advantage of our pulling weeds.  Copies of these letters should go to ARC so they know who the offenders are.  Weeds are being sprayed in the parks this week.  We’ll all work on it together.  Gene will get updates to Lucinda. 

Unfinished Business:
Bylaws – Mary Yager reported that she is waiting for the committee members to come back from their summer vacations and that when a meeting does get scheduled, they will be sure to invite President McGaughey to attend.  

Blue Fox Committee – Harold Moberly spoke for Lance Johnson since they have been in contact throughout the summer months.  Harold will find out what Lance wants.  Harold did say that when the dirt comes down, water comes into the yards.  This needs to be fixed.  Henny is aware of the problem.  Harold will report for Lance and get budget numbers for Paul to put into the 2007 budget. 

Nominating Committee --  Mary Yager stated that there are 4 openings on next year’s HOA board and that letters have gone out to all homeowners asking them to run for an office or to suggest someone else who might run.  Encourage folks to run – we certainly don’t want to have to hire a management firm to handle the affairs of our HOA!!!! 

New Bulletin/Communication Boxes  –  This will remain on the agenda for next month. 

Emergency Access Committee – Larry and Marie Urbine, Pima County Lt. LT Pratt and Fire Dept. Captain Bob Bohlen and HOA President McGaughey all met regarding finding alternative routes for The Springs access/egress.  We are aware that the fence can be cut for access to I-19 but in the event of a chemical spill on I-19 this won’t work.  We need to find a South or East way out.  There is a dirt road that the electric company uses, but this probably won’t work either.  Torres Blancas Golf Course owners were going to be contacted to see if we might be able to access this property in case of an emergency.  Additional map coverage of the southern area of the Springs will be made available to see if there are any usable roads that could serve as an emergency exit.  So, the problem is not yet solved – but it is being worked on and both the Fire Department and Police Department are very interested in helping us figure this out.  There is a definite NEED! 

Newsletter:  Secretary Suzy Dei agreed to oversee this project again.  Articles are due to Suzy by October 15 (she will edit, format and pull everything together, then forward to Lucinda to do page layouts) and Lucinda will take it to the printer.  Suzy will arrange for it to be mailed out prior to November 1.  Email will go out to those who have given us their email addresses and the newsletter will also be available on the web site.  Only people who have requested hard copies will receive one via the mail and this amounts to only about 1/3 to 1/4 of our homeowners.  Email saves a lot of money not spent on postage!!  

Bulletin Boards:  Harold Moberly will tell Lance Johnson that we need thicker cork before Lance makes up any more new bulletin boards.  The cork on the prototype is too thin for a push-pin and it needs to be thicker.  Otherwise, Lance did an outstanding job on the prototype. 

Kiosk by Front Gate:  Back in August, the HOA Board decided that the size of ads that we will allow posting for homes for sale in the kiosk by the front gate could not be larger than 4x6 inches in size.  Suzy will put a card in the “for sale” left side of the kiosk showing the correct size.  She will check with Ron Shaffer, since he is the one who has been policing these ads.  In addition, there is a 30-day time limit for ads on this board. 

Annual Meeting:  Lucinda informed the Board that the Annual Meeting date is Tuesday, January 9, 2007, in the Anza Room of the Santa Rita Recreation Center, 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.  All officers and committee reports should be emailed to her by November 26, 2006.  Reports are needed from President, Secretary, and the following committees:  Nominations, ARC, Grounds, Streets, By-Laws, Social and any other standing committees such as Light Bulbs and Weeds.  They need be only one or two paragraphs in length and be sure to have them proofed before submission.  Lucinda also provided a guide as to what the annual meeting packet could include.  Also, it was pointed out that the first meeting of 2007 would fall on January 2.  A discussion ensued with a motion to change the date: 

MOTION: “That the January 2007 HOA Board meeting date be changed to Monday, January 8, 2007, time and room to be determined by availability from GVR.”  M/S/C 

New Business:
Handbook:  On page 18 of our HOA Handbook changes to rules/bylaws are redundant since CC&R’s 13-5 says what the policy is.  We need to get rid of the policy since it is already in the CC&R’s 13-5.  Refer to 13-5 in our manual.  This Handbook should be updated each year.  A new one is needed for the 2007 Annual Meeting.  When this is updated, Emergency Access/Egress Policy needs to be added to the book.  Cost to print these handbooks is $800-$1,000.  If there are not a lot of changes, let’s not reprint it at this time, only add a sheet with changes.  Gene and Lucinda are to get together to discuss this option. 

MOTION:  “To rescind Board policy on page 18 (CC&R Article 13.5) dated 3/10/03 because it is confusing.”  M/S/C 

GVCCC Membership:   The Springs at Santa Rita HOA is not currently a member of GVCCC and we use them a lot in our work around here.  We did not have to pay the additional Master Association $10 fee this past year.  Our local phone book comes from them.  They represent most of the HOA’s in Green Valley.  They extend some benefits to HOA’s too.  If we were part of GVCCC they would be helping us with our current access/egress problem.  We SHOULD be members of GVCCC.  It will initially cost $8.00 per household.  Thereafter, it will cost $5.50 each year per household.  If our HOA decided to join, Paul will need a proposal with concrete numbers so that he can put it into the 2007 budget. 

Five or six years ago GVCCC asked us to join – but we couldn’t because our builder still controlled us.  We have not been approached since that time.  We were recently contacted and we should consider joining at this time.  All HOA’s but two have joined GVCCC on this side of the freeway.  We will present this proposal at the next meeting and at that time we will vote on joining or not.  Gene will get an exact proposal from GVCCC and we can discuss the pros and cons.  But the bottom line is that we need to be represented. 

Springs Walk-Around by Board:  The HOA Board of Directors has scheduled a walk-around inspection for Fall to be held on Tuesday, October 17 at 1:00 p.m.  All board members should meet at the office by the front gate. 

Community Garage Sale:  Approval was given to Bill Perry to again have a Springs Community Garage Sale – to be held on Saturday, November 18. 

Open Forum:
You do not need approval from the HOA to remove a tree on your own property – but please don’t pull a “Mr T” and cut down all your trees! 

When items like telephone books are tossed in driveways or on individual properties and have not been picked up by the property owner, please consider picking up the book or item and either keeping it until you see your neighbor or tossing it inside their wall so there is no advertising that the resident is not home. 

It was suggested that the barbed wire fence at the driveway entrance should come down. 

Thanks to Everybody in Attendance – Gene thanked everybody for their participation. 

MOTION:  “There being no further business, move to adjourn the meeting.”  M/S/C

Adjourn  --  Meeting adjourned at 3:50 PM.

Suzy Dei, Secretary   

(These minutes were revised and approved at the Board Meeting on November 6, 2006.)

The Springs Board of Directors Meeting
APPROVED  MINUTES
September 5, 2006 – Fiesta Room

Attendance -- The following board members were in attendance:  Pres. Gene McGaughey, VP Mary Yager, Secy. Suzy Dei, and Committee Chairs Dick D’Angelo, Henny Armenta, Jim Rusk, Carl Sparfeld and Treasurer Paul Walter. Bernie Serek was out of town and could not attend.   There were 21 people in attendance including board members.

Call to Order – President Gene McGaughey called the meeting to order at 2:00 PM.  The Secretary announced that there was a quorum in attendance.  The agenda was approved as presented.  Gene introduced the board members to the audience and thanked everybody individually for the good jobs they have been doing. 

Gene said that the Education Department of the Arizona Historical Society will be holding docent classes on October 17 and he encouraged anyone who might want to become a docent for any organization to take these classes.  If you are interested, see Gene.

Bruce Magnuson, a guest from the GV Camera Club, was introduced.  He came to the board meeting following up on their request for space at the SRS Rec Center.  As reported last month, they need more space and they want to use part of the area next to the Anza Room (a total of approx 1,000 sq. ft out of the 3,000 sq ft available) and make a general purpose room that could be used by other groups.  It will entail moving out the table tennis group.  The GVR Board has not made a decision but will study the request at their 1:00 p.m. Sept 15 meeting and again on October 4 at 9 a.m.  They want input from the general GVR members and especially Santa Rita Springs residents at these meetings.  A board committee will present their findings to GVR and hopefully, they will make a decision in December, or thereabouts.  GVR improvement costs to be in their 2007 budget.  The Camera Club wants this space and is prepared to do some lobbying in order to get it.  It should be noted that when this proposal was originally made at our August HOA Board meeting, it was very favorably endorsed by all in attendance at the meeting, including the HOA Board members.  Mr. Magnuson requested that we amend our August HOA minutes to reflect the above points, but they are included in these minutes instead.  It was further requested that the Springs at Santa Rita residents attend these meetings and offer their support to the Camera Club in this venture.  In addition, it was requested that a copy of these minutes be sent to GVR Board Member, Les Shipley, Chairman of the Planning & Evaluation Committee.

Bill Bohling, Assistant Chief/Fire Marshal, Green Valley Fire District was introduced and he spoke to us on our Emergency Exit Plan for the Springs at Santa Rita.  Our Emergency Exit Committee requested that Gene contact both the Green Valley Fire Department as well as the Pima County Sheriff regarding this exit plan.  We feel that we should have some kind of an exit plan available in our handbook and we need help from these two organizations in finding out what kind of a plan they have for us to follow.  Chief Bohling did not have a copy of our plan (is there one?)  He suggested working with someone from our subdivision in determining an exit plan.  He did know that there is a way out – to cut the fence near our front gate and enter Interstate 19.  This is not ideal, but it will get us out of here, assuming that we can get out the front gate or the south gate to get to the area where the fence can be cut.  This is not ideal, but it is an alternative.  The Sheriffs Department may have a plan, as they get more involved in evacuations than the Fire Department does.  But, we do not know if there is a plan or not.  Be assured, however, that if an evacuation is warranted, the Fire Department will get us out, somehow – probably without our cars – but we will get away from the dangerous area.  When Frontage Road is extended to Canoa, this would allow us to at least go another direction.  We can probably get out of here via the golf course paths, even to drive on the golf course if necessary.  But, a plan needs to be developed if the Frontage Road is blocked.  Bottom line is that we need to know what our options are here at The Springs.  Chief Bohling wants to work with representatives from our development to come up with a plan.  Gene will follow up with this along with our Emergency Exit Planning Committee and also contact Lt. Pratt in the Sheriff’s Dept. 

Since our next election is on November 7, political signs are now allowed again.  Rule is they can be displayed 45 days before an election and 10 days after an election.  There is a limit on size of 4 ft x 4 ft.  They can be displayed anywhere on private property – NOT on common property.

Secretary Report – Suzy Dei said that a correction needed to be made in the August minutes to reflect the correct website address on which to get a copy of the HOA Rules from the State of Arizona.  The correct site is www.AZLEG.STATE.AZ.US

MOTION:  “Moved that the August 1, 2006 Board of Directors Minutes be approved as corrected and filed.”  M/S/C  (Motion/Seconded/Carried)

Financial Report – Paul Walter stated that a new short-term CD’s has been taken out.  The HOA has $265,244.78 in assets, of which $161,807.96 is in the Reserve Fund.   The last homeowner owing money for dues has finally paid up.  The Grounds Committee has been spending a lot of money but is getting a lot of things done.  Paul said that basically, nothing unexpected is happening.  There had been a meeting of the Reserve Committee and the plan for next year has been changed.  There are now plans to bring in another park that will get “rocked.”    Paul said there are no plans for dues increases for next year.  The Reserve Fund is under control so there is no need to increase dues.  Paul requested a budget proposal from each committee PRIOR to the October meeting so that it can be finalized in November.  Good news is that the SRS Master association will not require dues for next year. The Treasurer’s report was accepted as presented and will be filed with the minutes.

Pres. McGaughey commented that the parks are all falling apart.  We need Reserve funds to get these parks to last 15-20 years.   Having money in the Reserve fund is very critical!  Also we need to do a Reserve Fund audit – must be an outside person to do this – an internal person can not do this audit.  Also, it was suggested that maybe we should move up the parks that have a 2 year life span left.

Committee Reports:
Architectural Review – Dick D’Angelo reported that this month the ARC had one request for a room addition, which was approved.  Additionally, he received a letter from a resident complaining about weeds on August 3 and then got another letter from the same person on August 29 asking why they have not been cleaned up yet.  Dick said he has responded appropriately.  Dick then proposed changes to the Private Lot Tree/Plant Policy which was approved December 5, 2005.  He wants to change the words trees, plants, etc. throughout the policy to PLANTLIFE.  And, he wants line one removed:  “The lots in The Springs enjoy majestic mountain views.”  Not all lots here have mountain views, why are we promising this?  Dick suggested that Paragraph 5 be deleted and be replaced with the following:

            The ARC has the authority to require proportionate cost sharing for the initial trimming, removal and/or

replacement on a private lot between the owner of the plantlife and the owner(s) requesting view restoration.

Furthermore, he suggested Paragraph 8 be deleted and replaced with the following:

            The decision of the Board (or the unappealed decision of the ARC) shall be final and binding on all affected

parties.  Any owner who does not adhere to the rendered final decision will be fined in the amount equal to the

cost of the Board’s hiring of a contractor to go onto the lot and remove or trim the offending plantlife.

Dick requested that Board members review these amendments and get their comments to Dick via email or phone prior to the next meeting so that he can present a proposal at that meeting.

Streets & Building – Jim Rusk reported that we have received a permit from ADOT for the south entrance gate.  The permit is for a secondary emergency access only.  We are required to install a gate and keep the gate closed.  We had wanted ADOT to clean up the area by the gate and repair the fence.  We need a standing fence on which to put the specified gate.  Additional work and decisions by the Board will be required at future meetings regarding this subject.   Jim said that a special thank-you goes to Chet Davis of the GVCCC for helping cut through the red tape associated with obtaining this permit.  If a gate is there, it may keep illegal dumpers out of the area.  And, a gate might keep our residents from using the south entrance as their personal driveways.  This needs to STOP!  On another subject, Jim reported that a street light was out at 3833 Comica.  He checked on the status of actions to replace the pole knocked down some time ago on the corner of Hero and Fuerte.  TEP stated they had a communication problem where the right and left hand didn’t know what was happening and that the pole would be replaced shortly.  Jim also reported that one of our signs “No biking/no golf carts” which had been erected at the entrance of the walking rail on Wolf Run has been stolen.  The culprit was good enough to leave the nuts and bolts but stole the sign! A new sign has been ordered.

Roy Erickson can be called to inspect streets and give a report to the Board.  He is a street engineer who lives in the Greens.  He works with GVCCC on private streets.  We have major dollars in Reserve set for streets.  This audit would be at no cost!

Grounds – Henny Armenta reported that they are trying to stick to last month’s schedule.  But due to rain and weeds, priorities have changed.  1)  Wolf Run weeds have been cut down.  2)  They are working on the walking path – 40 extra hours used last month, but they are still getting further and further behind!!  Jose came out to give us an estimate on trimming the trees on the grounds.  Henny would like to see a separate contract for tree trimming in next year’s budget.  Henny has had lots of nasty complaints and she’s been plugging away.  Gene commented for the minutes that Henny is overwhelmed and if the homeowners would get off their bottoms and pitch in and pull some weeds themselves, it would help a lot!!  We’re all just volunteers doing our best.   And, Scott has been held up from doing his work due to harassment from homeowners.  DO NOT STOP AND BOTHER THE GROUNDSKEEPERS OR HOA BOARD MEMBERS – YOU WILL NEVER KEEP VOLUNTEERS IF THEY GET HARRASSMENT ALL THE TIME!!!  Write a letter if you want to communicate.  Leave the board members and volunteers alone!!!  Henny said that she’s doing the best job that she can and most people appreciate what she’s doing but there are some chronic complainers.  At that point in the meeting, she received a warm hand of applause from everybody in the room for her gigantic efforts.  She said that made it all worth it for her!

SRS – Gene McGaughey reported that there is nothing new with the SRS Master Association at this time other than the fact that The Springs at Santa Rita office (the gatehouse) may end up storing the SRS Master Association files and their secretary will have access to the office to get any of their material/reports as needed.

Social – Mary Yager reported that they had a great time at this past month’s Pot Luck.  It was a small group but they had fun.  When the winter visitors come back, the social events will be more heavily attended. 

Light Bulbs – Harold Moberly was not at the meeting but Gene reported that July was a bad month for light bulbs.  Over 100 bulbs were replaced during the month and there are probably close to 100 more that need replacing.  It’s a good thing we went to the cheaper light bulbs.

Weeds & Sidewalk Overhangs – Deb Cox was not at the meeting but Gene said that she sent him a report indicating that she had looked over the north side of the development and she is sending out 73 letters and the south side will be done this week.  Copies of these letters should be given to ARC Chairman, Dick D’Angelo.  Normally Deb gives folks 2 weeks to take action.  She needs to check with Lucinda as far as current addresses are concerned.

Unfinished Business:
Bylaws – Mary Yager reported that Floyd has updated and sent out material to the committee members.  Committee will meet when everybody gets back – probably in October.  New Arizona laws go into effect on September 21, 2006.   This should be put under Tab 3 in each of our binders.

Wolf Run Committee – Mike Kearns reported for the five member committee and passed out brochures to all Board members.  He gave a very detailed and thorough history of the Wolf Run Common Area as well as described the plan, commented on surveys that have been taken on this area, and wrapped up his presentation with a request – which is the recommendation of this committee:   To approve the cost of eliminating the weeds and installing rock around the perimeter of the common area and install eight vegetation islands in the Wolf Run Common Area (otherwise known as the weed field between Wolf Run and Golden Lynx).  Thirty-nine out of forty-three homeowners living along the perimeter of this area voted to fund a plan to place islands in the area and eliminate the weed problem.  Only three homeowners voted against the plan and one homeowner abstained because of her occupation in The Springs.   The goal of this plan was to convert to desert landscaping so that no future maintenance costs will be incurred.  The cost figures presented are representative of current costs.  It will take 6 months to kill the grass before anything can be done.  And, prices will increase – that’s a given.  This conversion will not happen this year but we need to get started now.  The former HOA Board appointed this committee to make this proposal to the Board.  It does not have to go to the ARC because it was a committee appointed by the Board and the proposal goes back directly to the Board.  There is already $5,000 in the current budget – but this is ONLY to kill weeds if the Board approves the conversion.  Because there is a gulley (drainage ditch) that separates the area into two parts, this will allow half to be done one year and the other half can be done the following year.  After considerable discussion a motion was made:

MOTION:  “To accept the plan as presented but that we are NOT locked into the cost estimate of this plan.”  M/S/C     (Vote was 6 to 1)

The Board will accept the Wolf Run Common Area proposal as presented – which will change this area from weeds to desert landscaping and rocks.  But, at some time in the future, the Board needs to approve the dollars involved.  Henny thinks that she can get the proposed cost amount greatly reduced by using alternative rocks.  She will check this out and make her alternative cost presentation to the Board at an upcoming meeting. The proposed costs (which were not voted on) are:

Green Valley Decorative Rock:

• a) 40 cy of screen fill to use as base for 8 islands $742.70 

• b) 42 cy of ¾ inch Apache Red stone for perimeter $1,559.67 

• c) 820 cy of 5/8 inch Desert Brown stone for common $30,450.70

Landscaping & Design by Jose: 

• Labor to spread screen fill base, ¾ Apache Red and 5/8 Desert Brown $15,000

Estimated Total (current prices)  $47,753.07

Blue Fox Committee – Nothing available.  It will be addressed at a later date.

Nominating Committee --  Mary Yager stated that there are two or three openings for positions on the Board for next year.  Any suggestions will be welcomed.

New Bulletin/Communication Boxes  –  This will be addressed at an upcoming meeting.

Emergency Access Committee – Gene will set up a meeting with Larry and Marie Urbine, the Fire Department and the Sheriff’s Department.  (already discussed on page 1 of these minutes.)

New Business:
Newsletter:  Suggested we produce a newsletter about November 1.  Lucinda can help Suzy with this project.  All board members are asked to have an article emailed to Suzy by October 15.   Suzy will edit them and then email them to Lucinda for layout and production as she did on the last newsletter.  If we have to mail this newsletter out, in order to save money, we can have a stuffing party and everybody can help.

Office Manager Lucinda said there will be a mailing from the Nominating Committee going out around October 1, the Newsletter will be emailed and mailed to those without email around November 1 and another mailing will go out around Thanksgiving time for Annual Meeting information.  That means there will be at least three mailings going out within a couple of months. 

Annual Meeting:  Lucinda also informed the Board that the Annual Meeting date is Tuesday, January 9, 2007, in the Anza Room of the Santa Rita Recreation Center, 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.  All officers and committee reports should be emailed to her by November 26, 2006.  Reports are needed from President, Secretary, and the following committees:  Nominations, ARC, Grounds, Streets, By-Laws, Social and any other standing committees such as Light Bulbs and Weeds.  They need be only one or two paragraphs in length and be sure to have them proofed before submission.  Lucinda also provided a guide as to what the annual meeting packet could include.

Open Forum:
Thanks to Everybody in Attendance – Gene thanked everybody for their indulgence, passion, feelings and all that was put into the discussion – that Gene appreciates all of the effort put into this and also the community appreciates everything that everybody has done regarding the Wolf Run Common Area project.

An offer has been made by Bob and Jeannie Steindorff to give away two mature plants that are in their yard.  Henny said that we are not interested if they are prickly-pairs because we have too many prickly-pairs already.

MOTION:  “There being no further business, move to adjourn the meeting.”  M/S/C
 

Adjourn  --  Meeting adjourned at 4:30 PM.

Suzy Dei, Secretary 

(These minutes were revised at the board meeting on October 3, 2006.)

The Springs Board of Directors Meeting
UNAPPROVED  MINUTES
August 1, 2006 – Fiesta Room

Attendance -- The following board members were in attendance:  Pres. Gene McGaughey, VP Mary Yager, Secy. Suzy Dei, and Committee Chairs Dick D’Angelo, Henny Armenta, Bernie Serek, Carl Sparfeld and Treasurer Paul Walter. Jim Rusk was out of town and could not attend.   There were 16 people in attendance including board members.  

Call to Order – President Gene McGaughey called the meeting to order at 2:00 PM.  The Secretary announced that there was a quorum in attendance.  The agenda was approved as presented.  Gene introduced the board members to the audience and thanked everybody individually for the good jobs they have been doing in their respective positions/jobs. 

Gene also introduced Don White, a guest from the GV Camera Club who came to the board with a request from the Camera Club.  They need more space and they want to use part of the area next to the Anza Room (a total of approx 1,000 sq. ft out of the 3,000 sq ft available) and make a general purpose room that could be used by other groups.  It will entail moving out the table tennis group.  The Camera Club will seek GVR Board approval in Sept/Oct and if approved, the project should be completed after the first of the year.  There are currently 650 members of the Camera Club and their quarters at the East Center is inadequate.  GVR must include $85,000 in their budget now and the Camera Club will add up to approx. 30% more of this budgeted amount.  Parking will be a concern but the lot by the bridge is usually open.  And, not all large meetings need to be scheduled at the same time.

Gene said that each board member will receive a copy of the HOA Rules from the State of Arizona.  Or, you can go on-line to their website:  www.AZLET.STATE.AZ.US  It would be good to check this out for more definition of “closed meeting laws.”

Since September 12, 2006 is our next election, political signs are now allowed.  Rule is they can be displayed 45 days before an election and 10 days after an election.  There is a limit on size of 4 ft x 4 ft.  They can be displayed anywhere on private property – NOT on common property.

Secretary Report – Suzy Dei
MOTION:  “Moved that the May 2, 2006 Board of Directors Minutes be approved as written and filed.”  M/S/C (Motion/Seconded/Carried)

Financial Report – Paul Walter
Paul stated that the HOA has $276,000 in total assets and there is $160,000 in the Reserve Fund.  We’re not over the budget because Paul has moved some funds around to cover higher expenses in certain areas.  We still have the one homeowner who has not paid dues and this is going through the legal process now.  There had been another home not paid, but the house sold and the new owner paid the past dues through this year.  A question was raised about improving the parks for next year and there will be another meeting regarding the Reserve Fund soon.  It was decided to wait and schedule this meeting after Jim Rusk returns from vacation.  The Treasurer’s report was accepted as presented and will be filed with the minutes.

Committee Reports:
Architectural Review – Dick D’Angelo

Dick reported that he has been dealing with a front window structural change, a complaint about a garage door being open all the time and report of a snake in someone’s garage.  Approvals were given for several different ARC requests since our May meeting and two new paint suppliers have been added to the approved list on the web site:  Wal-Mart and Tucson Rubberized Coatings.  In addition, the ARC is dealing with a request for removal of a tree that may be on private property.  Ownership of this tree is being determined and the next steps will be taken. 

Streets & Building –
Gene spoke for Jim Rusk, who was out of town.  Gene mentioned that the access road to the south is not a legal access to Frontage Road.  It can be fenced off by the State.  Jim has already submitted an application to the State requesting that we be allowed to use this road as an emergency exit from the Springs.  During the monsoon, even though the water cleans off the streets, debris still accumulates.  Henny cleaned the streets and the walking paths recently.  There are weed problems in the streets and sidewalks however.  When Jim gets back, it was agreed that he should attack the weeds.  But, homeowners need to take care of the streets and sidewalks that run along their own property.

Grounds – Henny Armenta
Henny reported on finished projects for 2006, for projects lined up for the remainder of the year 2006, and for projects planned for the year 2007.  A quick overview of finished projects includes 1) Front area re-rocked, plants added, irrigation worked on.  2) Behind Crystal almost complete.  3)  Behind Nardos, has been a major clean-up!  Filled 3 roll-offs.  Extra help hired.  4)  Area behind work shop and behind Crystal required renting another dumpster, have had 2 dumpsters hauled out every week for 6 weeks.  5)  Picnic park perked up: new sprinkler heads, spread new grass seed and fertilizer.  6) Constantly working on irrigation which is a major project!

Projects for remainder of 2006 include:  1) Berm on Golden Lynx (between Fonda & Blue Fox & Crystal) bushes will be trimmed and drip lines worked on.  2) Wash area along walking path will be cleaned up and rock added.  Also grass needs to be cut along back of homes.  3)  Pull weeds around outer perimeter and cut grass in middle area by Wolf Run.  4) Entrance to walkway needs cleaning up, as does entrance on south side.  Wash has many weeds.  5)  Along Paseo Florido refurbish with rock, some erosion occurring (line item for erosion control in Operating Fund).  6) Behind Crystal rip rap is needed as it empties into drain channel, soil washing out.  8) Walking path needs trimming on both sides (place as #1 item on to-do list).  9) Pelotito needs rock by water tank.

Plans for 2007 include:  1) Maintenance is high priority.  2) Area behind Crystal & Nardos, now cleaned, needs to be maintained.  Need some dollars from SRS for this area.  Approx $1,500 for each area to fund a roll-off and labor.  3)  Period July-Oct. we need additional hours (64), after the monsoons, for weed control & trimming.  4)  Separate contract to trim all trees in common grounds area of development once a year.  Get estimates for this trimming.  5)  Rock the area at end of Wolf Run and Golden Lynx.  6)  On walking path, center of Y area needs some dead tree removal and clean up and maybe add benches.  Make a park here?  Use Reserve Fund dollars?  7)  Wolf Run project needs to be addressed.  Need updated report from Milo Weingart and committee.

Other comments:  Roll-off’s run about $300 each.  Use a riding brush hog instead of a mower on Crystal – State land.  It was pointed out that in watching the guy spraying for weeds today, it appeared he missed several areas and we do not want to pay twice.  So, if necessary, we should call him and get him to come back (at no additional cost).  When weed killer is applied, we need to be careful because it will kill the trees!  Also, in the neighborhood area where you live – form an informal committee and present your objectives and/or findings to the Board for action.  This is a good way to get things done!

SRS – Gene McGaughey
Gene reported that there is nothing new with the SRS Master Association at this time

Social – Mary Yager
Mary reported that there will be a Pot Luck on Friday night.  No Meet ‘N Greet (happy hour) was held in July and that for the June gathering, Mary was the ONLY person who showed up!   Hopefully, the August gathering will bring more folks out. 

Light Bulbs – Harold Moberly
No report, Harold was not at the meeting.

Weeds & Sidewalk Overhangs – Deb Cox
Gene said that Deb has done a great job!  One area of ongoing concern is the tree that is pushing the wall out along the wash area on Erranle.  (Item discussed under New Business.)

Unfinished Business:
Bylaws – Mary Yager

There have been no meetings regarding bylaws over the summer.  The CC&R’s will be put on a disk and will be cleaned up.  New laws recently enacted by the State of Arizona will need to be incorporated.

Wolf Run Committee – Milo Weingart, chairman, is out of town, but there is a plan in motion and it will be discussed at a later date.

Blue Fox Committee – Nothing available as to progress over the summer.  It will be addressed at a later date.

New Committees --  If a neighborhood issue arises, form a committee and bring it to the attention of the Board.  This way, we’ll have a good idea as to what’s going on.  Committees are a good idea!  Pass the word around to your neighbors so that we can build more committees in the Springs.

South Gate Security Options – This issue has been dropped because we have no control over the road anyway --  ADOT does.

New Bulletin/Communication Boxes  –  Lance Johnson created a nice prototype bulletin box before he left for the summer.  But, there are two problems:  1)  The inside back cork is too shallow for pins.  2)  The box is only large enough for 4 sheets of paper.  Discussion ensued as to whether we need to post the minutes at each mailbox site.  It was agreed that we do NOT need to do this, but rather create a central site only for minutes.

MOTION:  “Move that we add a plastic box by the entrance area kiosk for meeting minutes, that this be the ONLY place for HOA Board Minutes to be posted (other than the website).”  M/S/C

New Business:
New Board Members for Next Year  --  Mary Yager, in her Nominating Committee capacity, is going to recruit members to run for the board for next year.  Those members whose term will end include:  Pres. Gene McGaughey, VP Mary Yager, Bernie Serek ARC, and Treasurer Paul Walter.  Both Paul and Bernie said they will run again next year, so their names can be added to the slate.  Members remaining on the board include:  Secretary, Suzy Dei, ARC Chair Dick D’Angelo, Streets Chair Jim Rusk, Grounds Chair Henny Armenta and Grounds Co-Chair Carl Sparfeld.  Jeannie McGaughey and Milo Weingart were asked to help with nominations.

Sidewalk Damage Problems Due to Tree – Gene pointed out that there is a problem at 965 W. Erranle with a tree that is damaging the sidewalk and wall (near the front entrance area, across from the Rec. Center) because the tree is on private property (a rental unit) and it is destroying common property.

MOTION:  “Move that we send a letter to the homeowner telling him that the tree is causing damage to common grounds and that according to the CC&R’s, this needs to be addressed.”  M/S/C

Deb Cox will be asked to write the letter and also send photos to the homeowner so he can see what the problem is.  She should cite that the CC&R’s are being violated and the owner should be told to contact a tree expert – a professional might have a good idea how to solve the problem.

SRS – Pres McGaughey stated that SRS Master Association needs a permanent location for a small box of documents and requested that we store this box in our office at the front gate area.  It could be looked into that we might even be paid something for storing these documents.  Office Manager, Lucinda Walter, said that we have room and could store a box for the master association.  A motion is not needed for this request.

Kiosk Resale Posting Bulletin Board – It was pointed out that the ad size is too large for all of the postings to be placed in the area assigned for this purpose (half of the space in the bulletin box).  5x8 inches is too large and 3x5 is too small.  Therefore, 4x6 seems to be the appropriate size.  Also, there is a 30 day time limit for each ad.  Ron Shaffer has been diligently cleaning out the ads in this box.

MOTION:  “Move that we change the size of ad postings in our front kiosk bulletin box to a 4x6 inch size limitation.”  M/S/C

Open Forum:
Weeds in Gravel Parks – Lee Huey pointed out that we have too many weeds in our gravel park areas and that spraying two times a year is not enough.  It was pointed out that black plastic can not be put under the rocks because of drainage and flooding and that it creates a lot of heat and anything planted will die.  Pre-emergent is sprayed two times a year but perhaps biocide should be sprayed every month for a 6 month period.  New parks must be sprayed at the right temperature and consistently.  And, as far as common area weeds are concerned, they must grow high enough for the weed killer to work.

Access Roads to Springs Committee – Again at this month’s meeting,  Marie Urbine brought up the point that there are no other access routes to and from the Springs other than Frontage Road via our Main gate and the South gate.  She said if an accident happened out on the Frontage Road and if it was a bad accident, there would be no way for any of us to either get to or from our homes until the mess on the Frontage Road was cleared.  Marie and Larry Urbine conducted a survey among the neighbors and asked the question, “In an emergency that required you to leave the Springs, would you know where to go?”  They received many different answers, most of which tell us that people have no clear cut plan for leaving the area in case of an emergency.  The Fire Department was contacted and there is no set plan, it will be determined by the particular emergency.  There is no design or written plans anywhere.  Yes, the fence could be cut if necessary, but …. We need a written plan of escape routes.  Marie also checked with Canoa Golf Club to see if they would consider widening the golf path for emergencies but she was informed that nobody knew who was in charge and who could make a decision on this question.  This is also true about the possible extension of Abrego and if it could be widened. Nobody knows who to contact, who has the authority or responsibility for a decision like this.   It was suggested that the new Anza Trail, when it is finished, might provide an escape route for us too.  All of these possibilities need to be checked out.   Pres. McGaughey will contact the Fire Department and SRS Master Association and an escape plan will be developed.  When a plan is formulated we will publish it in our Newsletter. 

Road by South Gate Shed  --  This street is being used by residents – they must think it is their private driveway or something!  What can be done?  Also it was pointed out again that the Border Patrol has no authority to make us get off the road (but who is going to argue with them if they tell us to move our cars?).  We do need to point out to them that our road is not meant to be a thoroughfare however!

MOTION:  “There being no further business, move to adjourn the meeting.”  M/S/C

Adjourn  --  Meeting adjourned at 3:40 PM.
Suzy Dei, Secretary   

(These minutes are subject to approval at the next board meeting on September 5, 2006.)