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Laurel Oak Ranch Association, Inc.
Annual Meeting Minutes
MAY 17, 2007
The Annual Meeting of the Laurel Oak Ranch Homeowners Association was held on Thursday, May 17th, 2007 at the Laurel Oak Ranch Community Church at 6:30 pm.
The meeting was brought to order by Francis Traver, President at 6:45 pm. Additional members in attendance were Mason Mayo, Jay Zeman, Delia Laney, and Jason Flynt.
The minutes of the 2006 Annual Meeting were distributed to the Association at check in. Once the meeting was called to order, Delia Laney read the minutes and they were approved unanimously.
Kay Hardy of Slatter Management was introduced as Debbie's replacement. Kay spoke briefly about herself, her work ethic. She mentioned that Kristi Needham is also available to assist LOR residents; however, she is going out on maternity leave very soon. At that time, Amanda will be available to assist residents with any issues they have. Kay discussed the financial report with line by line detail. She explained 2006 expenditures and also discussed the 2007 budget. She explained if there was an increase or decrease in each line item. Kay also described in detail the capital forecast. Francis asked for ratification of the budget. It was delayed to discuss a residents concern that he would've liked to have seen the 2006 actual budget compared to the 2006 actual expenditures. Together Kay and Francis explained the details. Kay said we could post the financials on the Laurel Oak Ranch website. Another resident asked about the shelter project. Francis spoke about the structure, electrical, picnic tables, grills, fans, etc. He explained it is for all to use.
After discussion about the shelter project, Francis asked for ratification of the budget. The Association did ratify the budget unanimously.
Melanie Adkins, a Crosswinds resident, arranged for Doug Lowe to speak to our residents. He is the director of the Davidson County Emergency Services. In the event that you call for an ambulance, you have to make the operator aware that you live in Davidson County. You may experience a slow response time but the EMS department can perform CPR should you need that. A new plan has been in the works since 2004 when a complaint came in to his department about it taking over 15 minutes to get an ambulance. In 2005, funds were found to have a study done about installing a new ambulance. In September 2005, recommendations were made but future planning was needed. January 2006, a proposal was made for a 5 year plan to add 6 paramedics and 1 more truck but would take approximately $300,000 in taxpayer money. Eventually a new base will be constructed and the goal is to have a response time of 9 minutes or less. His phone number is 336-249-2270 if anyone needs to contact him later.
Progress since the 2006 annual meeting was the next topic. We made a change in property managers, improved communications in the neighborhood, violation letters have been more consistent, 4-6 newsletters will go out annually. The clubhouse was also turned over to the association in September of 2006. Francis described the amenities and encouraged all residents to take advantage of them.
Francis spoke about speeding. LOR is one of the most heavily enforced neighborhoods in High Point. He asked that we set an example and watch our speed. The average speed is 33 or 34 on Old Plank Road.
Violations were discussed. Kay advised the Association that she comes for routine checks through the neighborhood on Mondays and is usually here at 8:30. Violations are down 70% since she has taken over. Kay spoke to residents about keeping the lawn mowed and garden's weeded. Kay validates all homeowner complaints prior to mailing out a violation letter. Residents seemed concerned that some of the violations are not dealt with but Kay explained that some of those violations are ignored. A procedure is in place for those who do ignore violation letters.
Francis talked about the Ladies of Laurel Oak Ranch. Debbie Edwards is the lead person but was not in attendance so Francis explained what they do in the neighborhood. They inspect the clubhouse after each rental and they manage the keys to the clubhouse. They also put together welcome packages for new residents. They meet on the last Monday of each month.
Francis discussed the ARC. He told the Association where to find forms on the website, where to email requests, etc.
A resident asked about the toddler play equipment. Francis advised that the shelter needs to be built before the toddler equipment can be installed.
Another resident mentioned that they are concerned that there are no signs directing fire and rescue to the Crosswind homes. Francis advised that he would talk to our resident sign guy about installing a directional sign.
Another resident asked that we advertise the annual meeting like we do movie nights.
Another resident asked how to vote for movie night. Kim advised them to come to the pool or go on line to vote.
Another resident asked about the walking trails but Francis said we would talk about it late in the agenda.
The shelter permit was finally approved on 5/17/07. We do not physically have it but it is approved.
The Golf tournament raised approximately $1800 for the toddler playground equipment. The next tournament is planned for September of 2007.
Kay made it clear that the HOA and the REC are separate entities and do not share monies.
Don Brett from the Village will finish Mason Mayo's term on the board. The introduction of Don Brett lead to the conversation about the Village playground being vandalized badly. Kay advised that we need to install commercial grade play equipment. She likes yearly inspections and wants the equipment to be strictly monitored. She explained that the equipment that Shugart installed was residential grade as opposed to commercial grade. Don Brett will work with Kay to plan the playground.
A bike rack will be installed.
Walking Trails- Kay talked about the various issues with the trails and gave the estimated cost for one quote that we received for fixing up the trails. She asked that if anyone knows somebody in that line of work, let her know so we could get additional estimates. A resident spoke about a sidewalk that runs through her side yard that is supposed to be an additional entrance to the trail. She asked that it be removed since there is no intention of putting in a trail. A resident also asked if Shugart could be held liable for repairs. Kay said she is trying to. A resident asked what the $60,000 price would cover (concrete or dirt). Kay advised it would be dirt and gravel. A resident asked at what point would the trail project be called off.
Jason Flynt discussed landscaping. We dressed up the walking trail entrances and also planted daylilies at the entrance of the Village. Angel grass was replanted on the hills also.
Recreation Committee- Jason F. encouraged membership to the pool. He spoke about the Gators swim club, movie nights, fundraisers, etc. Our swim team joined up with High Point Country Club. The fall golf tournament is changing locations to Winding Creek Country Club this year due to Meadowlands being too expensive. Jason talked about CPR certification for REC members. He reminded us that there is a fundraiser in place now for a PS3, 1 for$5, 5 for $20. Earlybird memberships have been extended to the end of May. Jeff Smith spoke about bicycle safety class on June 3rd at Laurel Oak Church again. High Point Police will be in attendance. On June 7th, there will be an end of the school party at the pool. It will be open swim.
ARC- Jay Zeman lets residents know that he is recruiting members for the ARC. Jay let the residents know where the request forms are. He explained that we need nothing more or nothing less than what is on the form. It has to be complete to be reviewed.
Homeowner concerns- Walking trails were discussed again. The Board is looking at different options for the walking trails.
A resident suggested that money could be saved on postage if newsletters, notices, etc. if they emailed to the residents. Another resident expressed concern about the huge expense to replace pine needles. We spoke about the permanent rubber mulch that we have gotten estimates for. In a few years, it would pay for itself. A resident asked whos responsibility is it for burned out street light bulbs. We advised her to call the City of High Point and report the locations. Kay told her that if she called her office and gave the address, Kay would call for her. Someone asked if the landscaping for the townhomes is separate from Laurel Oak HOA and we advised that it is.
There were 4 openings on the board with 4 residents being nominated. They were unanimously appointed.
The annual meeting adjourned at 9:06.
Click here to view the Annual 2006 Meeting Minutes
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