2009 Spring Update
(The newsletter on which this article is based is also available as a .PDF file. -MAB)
Greetings friends and neighbors! Here's the latest update on recent events in our community.
Open Space Update
A meeting was held in March with the developer and attended by the Board, TWP Solicitor, Public Works Director, and Engineers. The developer is working on fixing the outstanding issues by April 15th. After that date the Board is ready to begin maintenance of the Open Space, including trash pick up and Landscaping. We have waited several years for this moment. Some may ask "Why didn't we do it before?" The answer is that if we decided to maintain only a portion, then we would be responsible for everything and the developer would be free of any outstanding obligations. This would have meant a significant financial burden on every homeowner. Since the TWP did not (and/or would not) pull the bond for the developer, we had to wait for compliance. The Board has spent many, many hours, workdays, and evenings with the current and former administration (Council, Mayor, Solicitor) to bring this to closure. The Board recently won a huge decision regarding the Open Space near the entrance by the fabled horse corral. With this behind us we are ready to move forward and finally maintain the neighborhood in a professional and timely fashion.
After a competitive bidding precess, Hammerhead Landscaping has been hired to maintain the open space landscaping needs of the Sawyers Creek Association. Look for a dramatic improvement this Spring. During the summer months we will begin bidding out Landscaping Improvement projects to improve the look and image of the neighborhood. It has been a long process and we appreciate everyone's patience. Your ideas are welcome as we look to remake the entrance way and basin areas as well as the common areas along Blackwood-Barnsboro Rd.
Association Dues
Association Dues of $175 were due last month for the 2009 calendar year. If you have not already paid please do so to avoid late fees and interest. There is a flex payment plan as well. Failure to pay will only lead to costly collection fees, interest penalty, and liens. Ultimately these outstanding obligations also put undue pressure on our small budget and may lead to higher association fees for the entire community. The economic downturn has negatively impacted many segments of our economy, especially the financial markets. As a non-profit entity, the Board did not chase the risky investments but rather sought a more prudent fiscal approach. Due to this decision, our cash reserve and equity remains strong and intact. We are well positioned to maintain the open spaces as we move forward through the transition of the neighborhood.
Board Member Update
A special "Thank You" goes to Rocco Siravo for his years of hard work and dedication to the SCHOA Board. Rocco resigned from the Board in November 2008, and we would like to wish him the best. Rocco and all our former Board members and volunteers are to be thanked for their efforts over the years.
At our last open Board meeting only a handful of residents were in attendance, despite the low turnout we were able to appoint a few new faces to the Board
Nick Cerulli - Member At-Large. Nick brings a quiet but knowledgeable spirit to the Board. We look forward to his valuable input.
Paul Marques - Secretary. Paul is not so new to the Board as he has attended all our meetings. He would like to help get more residents involved in our community.
Greg Wilson - Treasurer. Greg realizes our development has some challenges but has decided to join the Board to help move us forward. Greg has a background in Finance which makes him a natural for the Treasurer's seat.
Spring Clean Up
Check your house this Spring. We had a very windy winter and now is a great time to address any outstanding issues.
- Look over the outside of your home for clear downspouts and missing caulk around doorways, windows, and garage.
- Clean off the outside chairs , sidewalks, driveways, and stained exterior walls. Power washing does wonders!
- Change your heater/air conditioner's air filter
- Clear your yard of debris or your neighbor's yard of your debris!
- Check your deck and swingsets for wear and warping and tighten any loose bolts, screws, and or nails.
- Replace any siding or flashing from your roof or eaves. Moisture and weather will quickly rot and ruin your home if not corrected. A small repair now will save hundreds if not thousands of dollars later.
- Most garage door opener springs need to be sprayed with a lubricant such as WD-40. Check your owner guide for directions.
- Change your clocks and check the batteries in your smoke detector.
Being a Good Neighbor Means...
Curbing your pet - It is not only a common courtesy, It's the law. Many neighbors have complained regarding the blatant disregard some pet owners have demonstrated. This is not a Board issue, it's a health issue and comes with fines. If you see neighbors out of compliance, please contact the Municipal office immediatelyat 856-589-0523.
Practice Safe Driving - Children are at play in this neighborhood. We have a large amount of children residing in our development and a lot of cars parked on the streets. That means blind spots. Remember to observe the Speed Limit of 25 mph and be careful while driving. Observe STOP signs. Our children are counting on you.
Do not litter - The trash that goes down into the sewer grates and culverts end up in our detention basin. Please pick up any recyclables that may have blown away on trash day. Encourage your children to use proper trash receptacles instead of the sewer while at a Bus stop or walking in the neighborhood.
Knowing the Rules - The Board of Directors, acting on concerns from many of the homeowners, has adopted a resolution regarding the House Rental Policy which was adopted unanimously at our last meeting. A copy of the policy is included in this mailing and posted on our website for everyone to review. Again, compliance standards and enforcement are established by local municipal code. Please feel free to contact the board regarding any questions or concerns. For a complete list of Washington Township Municipal Codes like construction, animals, landscaping, zoning, taxes, swimming pools and 285 other chapters of information, go to the website www.generalcode.com choose New Jersey - Washington Township - Gloucester County. The Township Clerk's office can also answer any questions. Call 856-582-0520 ext. 213.