MLHOA Association Annual Meeting Notes – 3.10.16

The annual meeting of the MLHOA was called to order by President Rob Allen at 6:35 PM March 10, 2016 at Moore Elementary School.  Forty-two (42) members were present, thirty (30) in person and twelve (12) by proxy.

President Rob Allen began by thanking Ed Leibler for his 10 years of service to the Board, and mentioning that Ed will be leaving the Board in 2016, but will continue to help with landscaping issues.

Treasurer Ed Leibler presented the Financial Report, indicating that 100% of dues had been collected.  He explained that dues are past due as of the 10^th of the month in the quarter in which they are due, and that a $10/per month would be assessed for late fees. The annual budget was mostly on target for the year, with the minor exception of charges incurred for tree/shrub removal.  Ed explained that the budget was intentionally developed with a dues amount that would result in an annual shortfall of approximately $3000, with the intent of reducing our reserve to approximately $30,000. The 2016 budget would require dues of $35/month per resident to achieve a balanced budget.   It is anticipated that dues will be increased next year from $29 to $32 to lessen the annual shortfall until a $30,000 savings reserve is reached.  The budget for 2016 includes $1500 for “Professional” services, which accounts for John Wright’s accounting services (a former homeowner who no longer does this on a volunteer basis).

Rob presented the President’s Report, indicating that sidewalk repair had been completed by the City recently because of tree roots encroachment.  Rob thanked Board members for a successful year, and explained the Board’s general policy of minimal regulation and personal discussion of any contentious issues.  Rob encouraged member participation on the Social Committee and Board membership opportunities.  Rob pointed out the need for homeowners to use the dog waste stations. A homeowner asked about the potential of a neighborhood pool.  Rob explained that this issue had been previously addressed by the Board, and that this would be cost-prohibitive and various state and federal regulations would be nearly impossible to overcome.

Terry Dunham presented the Architectural Committee Report, indicating that fifteen (15) requests had been submitted for the year (primarily fences, porches, door colors, etc.)  He explained the requirement for submission of requests by homeowners for improvements, indicating that anything beyond routine maintenance should be brought to the AC’s attention for potential approval.  A discussion of additional lighting at the front was held, but was generally not considered a priority.  A question was also raised about delivery trucks damaging tree branches.  Terry mentioned that pruning of trees in front of each house was the responsibility of each homeowner, but there was interest in the Board’s identification of a landscape company that might be contracted to help with this issue throughout the neighborhood.  Terry also mentioned the need for homeowners to stain fences that have yet to be stained, and to re-stain those that had been previously stained if necessary.

Rob thanked the members of the Social Committee (Ryan Wilson and Korie Hynson) for their past service.  Ryan gave a summary of activities that the Committee sponsored during the past year, and presented a list of proposed activities for 2016. Rob explained the availability of the neighborhood garden and that Blake and Jennifer Gregg can be contacted for further information and assistance.

Susie Beck was introduced as coordinator of the Welcome Committee.  She asked for additional assistance on the Committee and five (5) members volunteered – Cherie Grammer, Pay Marsh, Allison Trull, Bridget Subock, and Marianne Gilbert. Nancy Baker and Linda Allen are continuing members of the committee.

The floor was opened for nominations to fill one Board member position (Ed Leibler’s).  Greg Policastro and Korie Hynson were nominated.  Korie Hynson was selected by vote of the membership to fill the vacant position.

The meeting was adjourned at 7:30PM.