3rd thinking out loud - poudre property services · pdf filepublished 8/29/2015 page 2...

Published 8/29/2015 page 1

Thinking Out Loud Newsletter 3rd Quarter 2015

Thinking Out Loud Our quarterly community newsletter

3rd Quarter, 2015

River West is a community organization (HOA) within the town limits of Windsor, Co. and part of Larimer County. Our River West Community was established to appeal to homeowners wanting a blend of open spaces with town amenities such as paved streets and sidewalks, town water, and sewer as well as the protection of town law enforcement. We have 212 homeowners and more than 152 acres of open space owned and controlled by our association, complete with all the wildlife indigenous to northeast Colorado.

PRESIDENT’S COLUMN Rick

President’s Report 1

Contributions from Members, General Information

and Related Articles 2-5

Notice to Members 6

River West Real Estate Market Activity 7

Board Minutes 8-10

Contact Information 11

Dear Neighbors,

In the coming weeks, you should see the annual mowing commence and the patio homes should start

seeing bush trimming and fall cleanup. A project and agreement with the Town of Windsor is in place

that will relocate the Poudre River Trail entrance on the west side of CR13 to align with the existing east

trail entrance, moving the crosswalk ~40-yards south of the bridge to a much safer location with flash-

ing lights as well. The Board proposed and the Town has agreed to fund an extension of our neighbor-

hood sidewalk from River West Drive west along CR13 to the new trailhead. We are awaiting final draw-

ings to understand whether any associated expense will be required of the HOA before a final vote on

approval can be taken. Work on these projects is expected to be completed this fall.

BUDGET TIME The current m ow ing contract and w eed control contract are both up for r enew al

and cost increases are expected. The current weed control vendor has been less than adequate and clearly admitted

they had underbid their proposal, so we fully expect this contract to double. Between that and the discontinuation of

oil and gas revenues, we expect that large cuts may be required in the special projects budgets if we are to avoid in-

creases in annual dues. Let me clearly state that the mantra of the existing Board has always been to work diligently in

keeping dues fixed. A change in patio home maintenance regretfully forced an increase for those owners this past year.

The erosion mitigation in the drainage channel is ongoing given budget limitations and a multi-year plan for updating

the front entry landscaping is being formalized for upcoming budgets. To point out how big a job controlling the HOA

budget is, I will remind you that the Common Budget (all homes) is over $126,000 per year shared by all 212 home-

owners. The Patio Home Budget is an additional $33,000 shared by those 44 homeowners.

BOARD MEMBER VOLUNTEERS NEEDED Let m e try to clar ify som e details for you and I apologize

up front if you take offense to my tone, but believe me when I say the Board has heard all of this and even endured

threats of physical violence! You are NOT a subject of the HOA; you are NOT a victim of the HOA; you are a MEMBER

of the HOA. The HOA expenses are our expenses, not some management company or some overreaching tyranny

making decisions to line their own pockets. YOU ARE THE HOA and your Board members are your neighbors that

volunteer their time and effort. Every decision is OUR decision and is based on what is considered best for the neigh-

borhood subject to budgetary and legal constraints.

It is the easiest thing to sit on the sideline and complain or worse, be complacent. So, if you have ever asked why the

HOA only mows once a year or wondered why we do not have fairway-type grass in our open space. If you have ever

felt the Board denied a request out of spite or acted randomly. OR HOPEFULLY, if you have ever wanted to become

more involved in your neighborhood or understand how HOAs operate – NOW is your opportunity. Come learn about

the HOA, control our income and expenses, maintain our look to a high standard, experience the challenges of dealing

with differing opinions, feel the joy of accomplishing something for your neighbors and give back to your community.



President’s Column cont.

Your service is needed! The Board m eets 6 tim es per year

for a 2-3 hour session plus frequent email discussions about more

urgent issues. Overall – less than an hour per week in general.

Please consider volunteering!

That said, I am announcing that I will be resigning from the Board

at the end of the year as my most recent two-year commitment has been fulfilled. I can also share with you

that a Board member has resigned this summer and three others will have completed their terms and are

not planning on returning at this time. The Board commitment is for two years to stagger the membership

for extreme cases like this and the three remaining members are going into the second year of their current

term. I must note, however, that each of these volunteers renewed these commitments in the previous year

(s) and have been on the Board for much longer. I wish the very best to Mary Adams, Amy Goeden, and

Steve Everett.

The exiting members account for nearly thirty years of Board representation in total for River West. I

would sincerely like to thank Bob Jonckowski and Mike Kauffman for their efforts over these many years.

A special acknowledgment of Steve Bullard who has dedicated more than a decade on the Board and our

appreciation of his knowledge and efforts cannot be understated. Each of these gentlemen has sat in the

President’s chair more than once. My sincerest gratitude to Steve, Mike and Bob for the successes that we

have seen both recently and in the past.

THE FUTURE OF THE HOA…IS UP TO YOU!

Respectfully – Rick Smith

Something you don’t like about our HOA? Run for the Board

Rick’s article talks about the current Board’s apparent frustration dealing with membership comments

and complaints. Understandable, having served on the Board as President 2003-2006. It is easy to feel

like members simply don’t understand what a volunteer Board member goes through. The negative feed-

back can be frustrating to put it mildly, even depressing and it is difficult to take criticism in a construc-

tive way if such criticism is not delivered constructively.

That sword cuts two ways though. Members too can become frustrated with something or someone on

the Board when they aren’t getting the results they want from a complaint or criticism. I have found that

often frustration on both sides is simply a lack of communication.

Most members think that it is wrong to set on a volunteer Board if they have an ax to grind. I’ll let you in

of a little secret, virtually no one volunteers for a board UNLESS they have a cause. Why would you, the

job pays nothing! Community duty? To heck with that, let someone else do it. I’m busy ….right?

Don’t like something about our HOA that you can’t seem to influence the Board to change? Get a seat on

the Board. Through dialogue and presenting the facts to fellow Board members to back up your claim,

you too can institute change from within. There is nothing wrong with that. Rest assured, the other

Board members will keep you in check if you get carried away.

Volunteer for the Board. You will be surprised how fulfilling the experience can be and how supportive

your fellow Board members will be.

Mac, Former Board Member



Final Oil and Gas Update... For Now Just finished attending one of the largest non-events in my recent his-tory. The Colorado Oil and Gas Conservation Commission held hear-ings regarding Ranchers Section 34-60 and rule 1002.f Stormwater Management and rule 1004 Final Reclamation of the Retta J and River West 2 wells. Findings; Ranchers did not communicate with the hearing officers, nor did they appear at the plea hearing in June. Also, neither they nor any representative for them appear at this hearing. Commissioners voted in favor of Staff's recommendation to impose a

$78,500.00 fine and foreclose on Ranchers existing financial assurances. I suspect Ranchers files for bankruptcy protection making the rumor of a Synergy/Ranchers partnership just that - a rumor. The River West 2 Well is a shut in non-producing well at this time. Once the the bankruptcy is discharged there may be individuals interested in acquiring Ranchers leases so there's a possibility of more discussions down the road. However, at $39 BBL price it will likely be a long and dusty road. Best Regards, Bob

WOULD YOU LIKE OUR NEWSLETTER AND IN COLOR?

Join your neighbor and have your “Talking Out Loud” association quarterly newsletter delivered electronically via e-mail attachment. Our newsletters are in universally accepted PDF format, virus scanned and they view and print in color. In addition to the newsletters, the Board occasionally sends out important notices that are too time sensitive to go out via snail mail. Not only is it efficient, but it saves our association (and ultimately you) printing costs and is environmentally friendly. It is as simple as e-mailing me at [email protected] and ask to be included on our electronic mailing list. Please note that we take your privacy very seriously and we do not share your per-sonal information with anyone. Also, we do not accept advertising . Mac McDowell, Editor

Solar Panels in HOAs

Interest in Solar Panel Systems has increased over the last few years. River West Board of Directors wanted to remind homeowners that any exterior change must be submitted for approval prior to installation. FCC regulations cannot restrict homeowners from installing these solar panel systems but they still require pre-installation approval. When submitting for approval consider the following elements in the design. The systems should be de-signed to appear as an integral part of the roof and no exterior plumbing may be visible. If you are considering solar panel systems, please have your contractor draw up plans for approval and submit your plans to Poudre Property Services. If you have any questions re-garding the addition of solar panels in our HOA, please contact Sandra at (970)224-9204.

mailto:[email protected]



Angry Neighbors Make for an Angry Community

We all have expectations about everything in our

life. We expect our family, friends and neighbors to be-

have in certain ways and when they don’t, we often fall

into a state of anger. Our expectations are not just limited

to those people who we know, but also to just about eve-

ryone we come in contact with or depend upon. We ex-

pect our leaders to make decisions that we believe to be

right. We expect the cashier at the store to be quick and

competent. We expect the driver of the other vehicle to obey the rules of the road. When they

fail to meet those expectations we get angry. Often, what we expect of others is a reflection of

what we ultimately expect of ourselves. When I am in a hurry I expect others to respect that and

get going. When I am frustrated I expect others to understand that and make everything right.

When I am overworked I expect others to sympathize with me and help out. When others don’t

behave according to our expectations, we get angry. Learning to be gentler with our selves goes

a long way towards being gentler towards others.

For most of us, anger is not an emotion that feels good at all. It disrupts our daily flow and

brings out the worst parts of ourselves. I never want to say a bad word to my family. I love them

dearly. However, when angry I have been known to say mean-spirited words directed at those

same family members. Anger makes us more aggressive and limits the way we think about and

treat others. Anger is usually one-pointed: outward towards someone else. In the act of being

angry, instead of feeling closer to the object of our anger, we create even greater distance. We

isolate them, but more importantly, we isolate ourselves. Anger is like a prison that binds us

and keeps us from making choices that reflect compassion and caring and understanding: At-

tributes that contribute to the happiness of ourselves and of those around us.

One of the keys to avoiding anger is to transform our habit of expectations. This does not

mean that we allow people to run all over us, or our community. It means I transform what I ex-

pect of others into an understanding that no one can read each other’s mind and their reasons

for doing what they do usually have nothing to do with me. My daughter didn’t clean up her

room because she wanted to make me angry, she was late getting ready for school this morning.

The cashier at the store was slow and distracted not because she wanted to make me angry, but

because her child is sick today and she is upset that she can’t be home to care for her. The

neighbor doesn’t let his dog poop on my lawn to make me angry, he does so because he hasn’t

read or understood our community’s rules. Transforming our expectations into a greater under-

standing of other people’s challenges and sufferings will do quite a bit to disarm our anger and

increase our own happiness.

If your family member or neighbor behaves in a manner that fails to meet your expecta-

tions and makes you angry, the only way you are going to really resolve the situation is not by

creating an even wider distance between yourself and them (anger), but by making a choice to

get closer and put forth an honest effort to remedy the situation “together.” Effective communi-

cation can only occur when there is a process of two-way listening. Anger prevents us from hon-

estly listening to anything but our anger. When we transform our expectations and reduce our

opportunities to get angry, we put ourselves in a position to make better choices about how we

relate to the people around us and, in turn, how they relate to us. When everyone works togeth-

er, anything is possible!



Clean Your House in 19 Minutes!

Get speed cleaning down to a science. Simply incorporate this 19-minute method into your morning routine and you’ll have a tidy house all day, every day. Best of all, it means you can put your feet up sooner rather than later. Here's a handy checklist you can use: KITCHEN: 4 1/2 MINUTES Wipe down the sink after doing the dishes or loading the dishwasher (30 seconds). Wipe down the stove top (one minute). Wipe down the counters (one minute). Sweep, Swiffer, or vacuum the floor (two minutes). BATHROOM: 2 MINUTES Wipe out the sink (30 seconds). Wipe the toilet seat and rim (15 seconds). Swoosh the toilet bowl with a brush (15 seconds). Wipe the mirror and faucet (15 seconds). Squeegee the shower door (30 seconds). Spray the entire shower and the curtain liner with shower mist after every use (15 seconds). BEDROOM: 61/2 MINUTES Make the bed (two minutes). Fold or hang clothing and put away jewelry (four minutes). Straighten out the night-table surface (30 seconds). LIVING ROOM: 6 MINUTES Pick up crumbs and dust bunnies with a handheld vacuum (one minute). Fluff the cushions and fold throws after use (two minutes). Wipe tabletops and spot-clean cabinets when you see fingerprints (one minute). Straighten coffee-table books and magazines. Throw out newspapers. Put away CDs and videos (two minutes).

“Whose sidewalk IS it?” (hint: not yours)

MYTH: (spoken loudly) “This is my lawn, my shrubbery and MY sidewalk. Just walk around my plant!” FACT: our neighborhood sidewalks are in public Right of Way.

Confusion has caused friction this spring and summer between some homeowners who have obstructed sidewalks with overgrown trees or plants, and pedestrians who have to go out into the street themselves or with their baby strollers, wheelchairs, or children.

The answer is found in the Windsor Town Code. Chapter 10, General Offenses. Look up sec-tion 10-4-50, “Obstructing highway or other passageway.” Think of the sidewalk in front of a house as having an invisible fence, vertical, each edge; as an area to be kept clear for public travel. Windsor Code Enforcement police officers look at sidewalk obstructions, whether on routine patrols or alerted by citizens (often anonymously) about a specific address. Items in violations are considered whether temporary (e.g., your yard project mulch or gravel dumped in the street, or a vehicle whose tires are parked on the sidewalk) or more permanent (such as a large shrub grown across the sidewalk). Home-owners can avoid a $60 fine by removing the obstruction within seven days; or wait for a Windsor town crew to remove the obstruction, with a fine and costs of town work paid by the homeowner.

Let’s all recognize that sidewalks are for all of us, and talk with each other about obstruction removal with the town code in mind. Lacking that, residents may visit the new police department fa-cility at 200 North 11th Street, just in front of the Windsor Community Recreation center.

Carl Sorrentino, River West resident



Neighborhood Security by Amy Goeden, Board Member As we have experienced an increase in population within our own town and our neighboring communities, Police are also seeing an increase in crime. Our best defense from crime is to deter it. Some ideas to help re-duce these incidences in our subdivision might include leaving exterior lights on at night or installing motion detection lights. Keep all doors locked when not in use and do not leave garage doors open unattended. If you must park a car outside, make sure it is locked and the security alert on (if the car has one).

Security systems, alarms and surveillance cameras are other options which may help deter break-ins and other crimes to your home and property. Unlicensed, non-permitted door-to-door solicitors should not be in our neighborhood as we have adapted the Green River Ordinance, and those persons should never be allowed to enter your home. If you happen to see something suspicious or witness a crime in progress, contact the Police Department.

NOTICE TO HOMEOWNERS The Board has voted to change its regular monthly Board meeting from every month to every

other month. Below are the 2015 scheduled Board meetings. Please note that meetings other than regularly scheduled meetings may occur as issues come up. Additionally, the

Board now conducts Board business via electronic means.

November 19 at the home of Steve Bullard December 17 at the home of Rick Smith

School's Open - Drive Carefully Now that school is in session again, drivers might need to remind themselves to watch out for children near bus stops or schools. Remem-ber that the speed limit is 25 mph in a school zone. Keep the following in mind when schools are open:

Drive with your headlights on to be more visible.

• Look for clues indicating that children might be in the area (for exam-ple, school safety patrols, adult crossing guards, bicycles, school bus-es, or playgrounds).

• Watch for school buses flashing their lights, which means that stu-dents are entering or exiting the bus. Generally, drivers approaching the bus from either direction must come to a complete stop. Slow down and use extra caution whenever you drive near a school bus or school bus - loading zone.



River West Real Estate Market Activity

Homes Currently on the Market

Address Style SqFt/Bsmt List$ Days on mkt/to offer

595 Lakeside Pl Ranch 1966/1966 410,000 48

2106 River West Dr Ranch 1973/1623 425,000 58 ContractPending

627 Poudre Pl 2Story 2707/954 425,000 61 “ “

1912 Reflection Pl Ranch 2174/1441 458,000 32 “ “

Homes Sold in the last 6 Months

Address Style SqFt/Bsmt List$ Sold$ Days to Offer

655 Trappers Pl 2Story 2748/1389 385,000/385,000 19

2038 Rivers Edge Rd 2Story 2314/967 400,000/395,000 20

555 Lakeside Pl Ranch 1833/1764 420,000/410,000 8

2005 Meander Rd 2Story 3150/1018 469,500/462,000 63

776 Pioneer Pl 2Story 2741/1820 474,900/474,900 8

Average days to an offer = 24 List price vs Sales Price = 99%

# of Homes that Sold in the same 6 month time period last year:

5 – High price - $475,000 Low Price - $379,000 Average Price - $421,000

Average days to an offer = 20 Sold at 99% of list price

This information was obtained from sources deemed to be reliable but is not guaranteed

by Steve Bullard,

Member at Large



The meeting was called to order at 6:00 pm. Board members present: Mary Adams, Steve Ever-ett, Amy Goeden, Mike Kauffman, Bob Schultz and Rick Smith. Board members absent: Steve Bullard and Bob Jonckowski. Amy Goeden had to leave early. Michelle Bermejo attended from Poudre Property Services. Approve Meeting Agenda – The agenda was approved with one additional item under New Busi-ness – Trudy Schade. Guest Forum – Sandy Schlicht of Sandy Schlict Landscape Designs presented landscape plans and drawings for the front entry areas. There are five areas and after discussing priorities, the Board decided to request a pricing proposal for the front entry at the monument sign. Mike Kauff-man has the drawings, which are available upon request for viewing. Homeowner Forum David Shipman of 575 Lakeside Place attended to discuss Architectural approval process and re-quirements for ongoing and additional submissions.

Mr. Shipman answered all questions regarding his current submission for a new side door to his garage, landscaping and deck staining. Based on this information, the submittal was ap-proved. Mr. Shipman was informed that any landscaping and exterior modifications would require an addi-tional submission and to include drawings to demonstrate plant materials and specific locations within the yard. Erminio Liotta of 1912 Hillside Place in lieu of attending the Board Meeting, Mr. Liotta submitted an email to Poudre Property Services concerning street drainage issues affecting his home.

After discussion, the Board determined that Rick Smith would attempt to follow up in person with Mr. Liotta for clarification on the drainage issues and to determine if cleaning the existing cob-ble drainage would be necessary. Poudre Property Services will inform Mr. Liotta that an additional drainage solution such as in-stalling a drain between his and his neighbor’s home is not the responsibility of the association and offer the suggestion of contacting the Town of Windsor for assistance.

Committee Reports Lakefront Patio Home Meeting – There was no activity or report. Oil and Gas Update – Bob Jonckowski sent an email to Rick Smith stating that the funds had been released and had been mailed earlier that day. Poudre Property Services will inform the Board if payment is received. Architectural Committee Report – Rick Smith attended the Architectural Control Committee Meet-ing held on April 21, 2015. The ACC acted on submittals for the following addresses: 575 Lakeside Place; 2041 Meander Road and 2047 Meander Road. Rick provided an update on the approval of black roofing material for 2047 Meander Road. The current ACC guidelines need to be updated to remove the color requirement for “Weathered Wood” and modify it to “earth tones ap-proved by the ACC”.

River West PUD Community Association Board of Directors Meeting Minutes April 23, 2015 - 6:00 pm At the home of Mike Kauffman – 2123 Meander Road



Board of Directors Meeting Minutes April 23, 2015 cont.

Approval of Meeting Minutes for March 5, 2014 (rescheduled from February 26, 2015) – Mike Kauffman mo-tioned to approve the meeting minutes as presented and the motion was seconded by Mary Adams. Motion passed unanimously.

Financial Reports Approval of Financial Reports for February 28, 2015 and March 31, 2015

Mike Kauffman reported that the landscaping expenses for the Lake and Common budget were booked incorrectly. Poudre Property Services will correct these entries.

Mike also reported the budget for the front entry pond maintenance has been exhausted due to a late bill-ing received in 2015 for work performed in 2014 from the pond maintenance company. This will have a nega-tive impact on the additional expenditures throughout the year, including Special Projects, such as erosion control.

The aging report was reviewed and late fees have not been added and Poudre Property Services will add late fees to those accounts that are delinquent. 2046 River West Drive has been billed monthly in error for January, February and March. Poudre Property

Services will correct the billing to reflect annual dues. Delinquency Report and Attorney Collection Report – There has been recent action on two collection matters. A homeowner has filed for Chapter 7 Bankruptcy on March 5, 2015 which prevents the association from pursu-ing further collection until the bankruptcy is discharged. The Chapter 13 bankruptcy has been discharged for a second homeowner and the total amount written off to bad debt is $6,081.71. Violation Report – Community inspections are taking place two times per month. The violation log does not reflect violation fines and will going forward.

Old Business Demand Letter to Ranchers – No action taken due to pending receipt of funds. Erosion Control Update – .The plan is to bury the six drop walls north of River West and south of the Dam #1 adjacent to 1965 Rivers Edge. This project will cost $10,000 with funding potentially inadequate in the current budget. Steve Everett suggested taking the funds from the reserves if possible to meet the import of the pro-ject. Mike suggested delaying the project until later this year to see where funds stand and to potentially ask Poudre River Contracting to divide the billing again with half being paid in 2015 and the remaining half in 2016. It was agreed that with water levels rising at this time of year, the project would be delayed until later this year.

Poudre River Contracting will be directed to move forward with additional repairs of Dam #1 adjacent to 1965 Rivers Edge.

In the interim, Todd Bauer, Maintenance Supervisor with Poudre Property Services will erect safety fencing along eroded areas of the drainage at a cost of $100.00.

Trail Easement Agreement Update - The agreement has been provided to the Town of Windsor and we will await their response prior to signing New Business Ratification for approval outside of a board meeting – No action required. Neighborhood Garage Sale and Community Cleanup Dates -

The garage sale will be held the first weekend in June. Steve Bullard to erect the signage at the appropri-ate time.




The roll off dumpsters for the neighborhood cleanup will be requested for the weekend of May 16-17 with a secondary choice of May 9-10.

Board/Executives to be copied on all correspondence to homeowners – The Board discussed and agreed that Board members will be electronically copied on all correspondence from Poudre Property Service to homeowners. Damaged Tree Proposal (adjacent to 740 Pioneer Place) – several limbs are presenting a danger in the open space. Foothills Tree Service will provide a bid on Friday, April 24, 2015. . Welcome Baskets for new Homeowners – Amy Goeden and the Social Committee will review the requirements and effort for creating welcome baskets for new homeowners to include gifts from local merchants and more importantly the HOA guidelines and documentation. Animal Registry/Animal Control Update – It was suggested by a homeowner that a neighborhood animal registry be created to assist in identifying loose animals. This idea was rejected due to the complexity of the oversight required for this project. Mary Adams reported that barking dogs can be reported to Windsor Code Enforcement after only 10 minutes of barking. Garden Club – Bob Schultz brought forth a homeowners suggestion for a Garden Club to help spruce up Open Space planting areas. After discussion, it was suggested that interested members create a formal proposal and budget for the Board to consider for inclusion in next year’s budget. Trudy Schade – acknowledgement. A Thank You card and a gift card should be arranged for Trudy’s service to the HOA. Mary Adams will acquire both items and work with Board members to obtain signatures. Long Term Projects

Sprinkler System Maintenance and Mapping for Lakefront Homes – this is underway currently with Timberland working up a proposal for inclusion in future budgets. Rick Smith asked when the sprinklers were due to be turned on.

Front Entry Landscaping – with the designs approved and in hand, Mike Kauffman will ask Sandy Schlict if she is willing to move forward on providing bids for Section #1 – The Sign Area.

Mailbox Painting – Letter Notification. It has been suggested to affix “No Posting” stickers to the newly painted mailboxes. Amy Goeden will follow up for bids. It was noted there may be one (1) additional mailbox on Hillside Place that might not have been included in the original quote. Michelle Bermejo to confirm 12 or 13 in the Scope of Work. Letters will not be sent at this time; instead we will repost on NextDoor, add to the Newsletter and send out an email blast.

Open Space Tree Identification – no activity, tabled for time being Erosion Control – see update above 801 & 829 Panorama Cobble – it was requested that Michelle Bermejo put this out to bid at this time

for completion later this year. Neighborhood Traffic – Mike Kauffman is continuing discussions with Chief Michaels regarding

lowering the speed limit and placement of speed control signage. Other Business Minutes Follow Up – Michelle Bermejo agreed that the Minutes from this meeting are due within seven (7) days.




Adjournment – There being no further business to discuss, the meeting was adjourned at 9:00 p.m. The next meeting will be Thursday, June 25, 2015 at 6:00 p.m. at the home of Steve Everett at 1901 Reflection Place. Respectfully submitted, Michelle Bermejo Community Manager Poudre Property Services



River West PUD Community Association Board of Directors Meeting Minutes

June 25, 2015-At the home of Steve Everett, 1901 Reflection Place

The meeting was called to order at 6:05PM. Board Members present: Mary Adams, Steve

Bullard, Steve Everett, Amy Goeden, Bob Jonckowski, Mike Kauffman and Rick Smith.

Members absent: Bob Schultz. Michelle Bermejo attended from Poudre Property Services.

Approved Meeting Agenda – The meeting agenda was approved with one additional item under

Committee Reports – Social Committee. Struck item under New Business for Reimbursement

Request.

Homeowner Forum - Brent Powell of 745 Pioneer Place attended to discuss maintenance of the

cobble channel adjacent to his home.

Open Space Reports:

A. Tru-Green Open Space Damage - A concern that Tru-Green has damaged the Open Space

by driving their tractor through wet soils was discussed. The use of 4-wheelers and tractors is

expected, however the wet conditions were not optimal in mitigating damage. Poudre Property

Services provided information dated June 22, 2015 from Darrin McLimans with Tru-Green that

he personally looked for himself and does not believe they tore up anything during their visit on

June 3, 2015. A follow-up observation of the damage south of the Poudre Trail and north of

Rivers Edge between Bliss Place and Rainbow Place is required at this time by Poudre Property

Services.

B. Open Space W alks and Billing for sam e – Poudre Property Services has again changed

personnel responsible for walking the Open Space and the report for the June walk is in the

possession of Poudre Property Services and not available to the Board at this time. The report

from May notes that Tru-Green is successfully managing the weeds and spraying at this time.

Poudre Property Services noted that quotes for dead tree removal were forthcoming.

Committee Reports:

A. Lakeside Patio Hom es – The grass turning brown due to higher summer temperatures

were noted as a concern. It was discussed that additional watering may not be possible if the

irrigation clocks are set at full capacity. Poudre Property Services provided information that the

irrigation clocks are set as they have been in years past. Therefore, the Board requested

Poudre Property Services maintenance raise the height of the mowers to allow for longer

grasses.

B. Oil and Gas Update – Bob Jonckowski reported that an agreement between Ranchers

Exploration and Synergy was denied by the COGCC. Ranchers Exploration is intending to file

for bankruptcy and will be shutting down the Retta J wellsite permanently by presumably sealing

the shaft with concrete and removing all surface equipment. Bob Jonckowski is in possession of

a letter addressed to “homeowners” and will forward to the Board for our review.

C. Architectural Control Com m ittee – The Architectural Control Committee (“ACC”) and Board

members have grown tremendously frustrated by the current processes and a lengthy

discussion ensued. Reasons exacerbating the issue:

Untimely processing of submittals by Poudre Property Services

Incomplete submittals, untimely submittals and lack of submittals by homeowners



Board of Directors Meeting Minutes June 25, 2015 cont.

Violation Report – The Board reviewed a violation report wherein five violations were added to

the report from an inspection that took place on Monday, June 22, 2015. While not reflected in

the violation report, a community inspection also took place on Monday, May 18, 2015, there

were no violations noted at that time.

Old Business

Landscape Design for Front Entrance – It was noted that funding was not available for work to

begin in 2015. It was also agreed that this project would most likely need to be completed in

three phases over three budget years. Mike Kauffman will contact Sandy Schlict and ask for her

assistance in gaining three bids for the South Entry Area (Sign) to be considered for inclusion in

the 2016 budget.

Damaged Tree Proposal (behind 740 Pioneer Place) – It was discussed that many

damaged/dead trees exist in the Open Space and are requiring attention, however budgeting is

not in place for 2015. It was discussed that some homeowners may be willing to pay for

removal of damaged trees presents liability issues which limits a willingness to allow

homeowners to act on the behalf of the HOA in these matters. Steve Everett will visit the trees

noted above to gain a full understanding of the expense involved due to limited access. Steve

Everett suggested and will research whether “Liability Waivers” are a possible solution in

allowing homeowners to remove trees, etc. with Board approval.

Special Projects Update - Rick Smith noted that the Special Projects budget currently in place

may be suitable for such Open Space projects in coming years; however it should be added that

we will be reducing future revenues from the oil royalties most likely offset in a reduction in this

expense category.

Erosion Control Update – Tabled until next meeting and Special Projects budget review

Trail Easement Update – Mike Kauffman reported that he had met with Wade Willis. Wade will

present the proposal for the additional sidewalk to the trail at the next Town meeting. All were

in favor of signing the Trail Easement Agreement

Welcome Baskets for new homeowners – no update available, tabled until future meeting.

Boat Storage at 1965 Meander – no progress has been made to date on approved ACC plans

that will address this ongoing issue. Frequent homeowner complaints persist. A letter will be

sent to the owners setting a firm timeline (August 1, 2015) for this project to begin. Failure to

comply will require discontinuation of both the improper storage of the boat on the lot and

improper parking in the gravel driveway.

Sprinkler Blowouts – tabled. This will be the review of homeowners that are billing the HOA for

private sprinkler systems blowouts.

New Business - Ratification for decisions outside of Board Meetings – no action required

1912 Hillside Cobble Channel Cleanup - approved

Mailbox No Posting Stickers - approved

Reversal of April Late Fees - approved

May Late Fee Request Waiver – denied




Efforts by both the ACC and Board to acquiesce to homeowner requests

Failure to enforce ACC guidelines for non-submittals and the misunderstandingthat the HOA lacks

teeth

in enforcing adherence

The consensus outcomes were as follows:

The HOA needs to be more aggressive in enforcing compliance with both the process and intentions of

the ACC

guidelines. Accommodating homeowners is simply not possible.

ALL requests are to be submitted to the management company who is responsible for:

Timely processing of the request and timely follow up of complaints regarding violation of this poli-

cy

Ensuring submittal is complete and meets all requirements – inclusion of drawings, paint samples, etc.

prior to submission to the ACC for approval

Responding to all homeowners upon receipt to communicate expectations including – next ACC meeting

date, timing of approval, and that no work is to begin prior to approval

Failures to adhere to this policy including failure to submit requests prior to work fall under the September

2007 Board Resolution “Regarding Policies @ Procedures for Covenant and Rule Enforcement” including:

Step 4 – Initial Warning Letter and 14-day compliance window

Per the ACC requirements for submission approval prior to project commencement, this implies a

“cease and desist” for any ongoing work

Step 5 – Continued Violation After Warning Letter – fines are possible at this time

Please review this policy for fine schedules including the possibility of ‘daily’ fines for continuous

violations

A formal letter be drafted explaining these policies and expectations. This letter to be sent to all

homeowners.

The ACC is still in need of a Chairperson, a position more willingly filled if these policies are fully acted

on. The Chair exists to be the liaison to the management company and to schedule meetings.

It was suggested that ACC meetings be held more often during the active season– possibly April through

July.

Social Committee – Amy Goeden announced that there will be a 4th of July Parade beginning at

8:30am. Notices are forthcoming.

Approve Meeting Minutes – no additional changes were made.

Financial Reports - April and May Statements were reviewed with no notable issues

Receipt of Oil royalties was acknowledged in the amount of $16,503.15

The Special Project budget was discussed and Mike Kauffman will email a report of

activity and standing for Board review.

A request for reimbursement in the amount of $70.00 was submitted by Rod Van Velson for seed he

planted in the dam removal area south of River West. The Board unanimously approved the reimburse-

ment.

Delinquency Report and Attorney Collection Reports – The Board discussed the ongoing

action in the Chapter 7 filing for Thomas Formica of 676




Proposals for 801/829 Panorama Place – The Contract will be awarded to Timberland

Landscape in the amount of $993.65. Mike Kauffman and Rick Smith to visit adjacent

homeowners making them aware of the upcoming project.

Drainage at 745 Pioneer Place / Cobble Channel Cleanups

PPS needs to contact Tru-Green and assure timely spraying/eradication of ALL vegetation in

the cobble channels.

PPS to provide T&M quote and specifics of which cobble channels require cleanout. Estimated at 6

channels at this time.

Rick Smith suggested that once the channels have been cleaned out that Poudre Property Services

address these each time they mow the open space frontages. This effort would only require a few minutes

per channel each visit and avoid future billable hours and Poudre Property Service scheduling conflicts.

Long-term mitigation of these recurring issues can only be achieved by replacing the

cobble channels with concrete drainages that could be power-washed of sediment

and debris. This would require quotes and budgeting in future years.

ACC/HOA review of 2143 River West Drive submission – the Board had previously attempted to

find an amenable solution to the storage of a canoe on their property by screening with a hedgerow from

both the back yard and the street. Some of the Architectural Control Committee members feel that the

Board exceeded their rights in doing so and have refused to approve the Architectural submission.

The Board has subsequently approved the Architectural Control Committee submission

with the following contingency:

After completing addition of hedgerows/shrubs to screen the canoe from both the backyard and the street,

homeowner needs to be aware that this approval does not grant immunity from any future complaints re-

garding the storage or improper screening of the canoe. Any such complaints will require Board action in-

cluding demand to meet compliance and possible removal of the canoe.

Ice Cream Social will be held on August 4th from 6:30PM to 8:00PM.

Neighborhood Security – with the recent home invasion incident near the front entry, discussion

of possible security solutions including security cameras, the Green River Ordinance, and

Neighborhood Watch were briefly discussed. Amy Goeden will continue her research into

possible solutions and bring suggestions to the Board for future consideration.

Noteworthy – placement of false warning signs also creates a liability for the HOA in that homeowners

may feel protection is in place that is not.

Tree Complaint behind 2064 River West (Sacco) – please refer to Old Business – Damaged

Tree Proposal

Late Fees – Future Handling Suggestion

It was suggested and approved that in future years a subsequent invoice for HOA dues be mailed to de-

linquent homeowners on March 1st reminding them that theirdues are overdue and that late fees will

commence if not received by March 31st.

Hillside Berm – A homeowner concern has been made regarding damage to the Hillside Place

berm by the mowing and weed spraying vehicles. It was suggested that both activities avoid

traversing the berm as weed spraying can be completed from either side and to simply not mow

the berm helping to mitigate erosion as well. Poudre Property Services will contact Tru-Green




and ask them to stay off the berm and the mowing will be discussed again as we approach

mowing season.

Long Term Projects

Sprinkler System Maintenance and Mapping for Lakefront Homes – Timberland provided a

review of the system and states that in general it remains viable and only minor repairs should

be needed for years to come.

Front Entry Landscaping – has been moved to Old Business

Open Space Tree Identification – no activity, tabled for time being

Neighborhood Traffic – No activity, Mike Kauffman will continue discussions with Chief Michaels

regarding lowering the speed limit and placement of speed control signage.

Non-Agenda Items - The August Board Meeting was rescheduled and will be held on Tuesday,

August 25th at the home of Amy Goeden.

It was noted that PPS is not complying with the requirement for Board/Executives to be

electronically copied on all correspondence to homeowners

At 8:20 the Board went into an Executive Session

Adjournment – There being no further business to discuss, the meeting was adjourned at 8:30 pm.

Respectfully submitted,

Michelle Bermejo

Community Manager

POUDRE PROPERTY SERVICES



BOARD MEMBERS STREET ADDRESS PHONE # E-MAIL ADDRESS

Rick Smith, President 2101 River West Drive 686-7054 mailto:[email protected]

Steve Everett, Vice President &

Open Space Liaison 1901 Reflection Place 686-5388 mailto:[email protected]

Mike Kauffman, Treasurer 2123 Meander Road 674-2826 mailto:[email protected]

Steve Bullard, Secretary 1989 River's Edge Road 686-2325 mailto:[email protected]

Amy Goeden, Member at Large 1935 River’s Edge Road 686-0594 mailto:[email protected]

Bob Jonckowski, Member at Large

& Oil & Gas Liaison 540 Lakeside Place 686-2200 mailto:[email protected]

Mary Adams, Member at Large &

ACC Liaison 2102 Meander Road 686-7315 mailto:[email protected]

Social Committee

Amy Schmidt, Chairperson 830 Panorama Place 686-7410 mailto:[email protected]

Amy Goeden 1935 River’s Edge Road 686-0594 mailto:[email protected]

Bethany Ocken 1939 River’s Edge Road 674-0025 mailto:[email protected]

Architectural Control

Mary Adams 2102 Meander Road 686-7315 mailto:[email protected]

Terri Jonckowski 540 Lakeside Place 686-2200 mailto:[email protected]

Carol Smotherman 1904 Reflection Pl 674-1844 mailto:[email protected]

Amenity Ponds liaison

Mac McDowell, Ponds Liaison 515 Lakeside Place 231-1221 mailto:[email protected]

Open Space liaison

Steve Everett, OS Liaison 1901 Reflection Place 686-5388 mailto:[email protected]

Lakeside Patio Homes Lead

Mac McDowell, LPH Lead 515 Lakeside Place 231-1221 mailto:[email protected]

Newsletter Staff

Mac McDowell, Editor 515 Lakeside Place 231-1221 mailto:[email protected]

Sharon McDowell, Helper Person 515 Lakeside Place 231-1220 mailto:[email protected]

RIVER WEST HOA CONTACT INFORMATION (KEEP THIS PAGE FOR HANDY REFERENCE)

We’re on the web at http://www.poudreproperty.com/hoa/river-west-

homeowners-association/

Property Management Provided by Poudre Property Services

706 South College Ave. Fort Collins, Co 80524 Ph# 970.224.9204

Sandra Oldenburg, Community Mgr. [email protected]

Lee Oldenburg, Landscape Mgr. [email protected]

















mailto:ailto:[email protected]











http://www.poudreproperty.com/hoa/river-west-homeowners-association/

http://www.poudreproperty.com/hoa/river-west-homeowners-association/




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