Memo From The Board...

2004.11.17

You are reading the first issue of "The Creek". This newsletter is designed to keep our neighbors informed on issues related to the development. It is our hope that by keeping you informed we will keep you interested and that by keeping you interested we will get you to participate. If we get you to participate, we can make this the premier neighborhood in Washington Township. Based on the turnout at this month's Association Meeting, this newsletter is overdue.

Despite the impending election of three new Board members, the approval of next year's budget, and a promise that we'd have you home in time to catch most of ESPN's Monday Night Countdown, only 17 homes were represented at Monday's Association meeting. Not too surprising given the Eagles were on Monday Night Football and that recent meetings have seen shrinking attendance as our neighbors grow more and more frustrated with the apparent lack of progress from the developer and wonder what they are getting for their $132.75. Believe me, the Board shares in this frustration. We, too, wonder if there will ever be a sign, and like you, we want to see the streets paved.

Over the past year the Board has worked closely with the outgoing Township administration to get answers. We met on several occasions with Mayor Davidson and Sal Messina. Amazingly, the Township blamed the developer for the delays and the developer blamed the Township. Mr. Messina's group claimed to have been asking for the final punch list and the Township claimed to have provided it. Neither the Township nor the Developer provided any documentation that either claim was true.

Nevertheless, as a result of our actions, the Township has now provided a copy of the punch list and the developer has begun making repairs. Once the punch list is completed, the developer can pave the streets. The punch list, though, is extensive.

One thing that is not on the punch list is a sign. We've since learned that the approved site plan does not include a sign and it is becoming more and more apparent that if we want a sign we're going to have to pay for it ourselves.

There is good news, though. At the end of the year the Association will have nearly $15,000 in Capital Reserve, currently invested in a Money Market Acount, and projects another $8,500 surplus. At Monday's meeting the Board recommended any surplus be set-aside in the event we need to pay for a sign and/or for landscaping the entrances.

In a related issue, we have created a series of subcommittees and are currently soliciting volunteers.

Subcommittee recommendations will be debated before the Association and homeowners will have the opportunity to comment. Anyone wishing to participate on any of the committees is welcome.

In fact, you are encourage to participate because with your assistance we can succeed. We on the Board look forward to serving the Association, to your participation, and to your support.