The Board over the past year has been considering options for enhancing the appearance and functionality of the common grounds next to the pool so as to create a shaded and attractive gathering place for small or larger groups of association members. After hearing concerns from the membership regarding the cost (about $35,000), appearance, and functionality of constructing a pavilion on the pool grounds, the Board agreed to investigate the possibility for enhancements involving landscaping and shaded table areas.

Paul contacted Stajo Construction who provided the name of a landscape company that Stajo is using on its projects. Paul contacted Brian Chesher of G3 Landscaping and Irrigation who subsequently met on site with Paul, Joe, and Peggy to brainstorm ideas for the space. Brian subsequently provided Paul a landscaping design plan for the space (see attachment) and discussed cost estimate for major items. The plan was prepared and presented at no cost to the Association as a gift on behalf of Stajo Construction. While G3 Landscaping is amenable to doing some of the work to implement the project, the Association is not committed in any way to hiring G3 to perform the work.

Paul believes the plan provides a good concept for improving the space, although Paul believes that a concrete pathway would be more functional than the proposed path using river rock. Unlike the pavilion, the landscaping project would not likely increase either insurance cost or property taxes. The primary ongoing cost item would be for irrigation and perhaps for lawn maintenance.

At this time, it appears that this project could be completed at a cost of $8,000 to $15,000 depending on design choices and the amount of volunteer labor provided by Association members.

Ideally, the project would be implemented between October 2006 and March 2007.

Funding for the project for 2006 would come as an expenditure for Betterment from our Reserves. Total Reserves are currently about $14,000, which, barring any significant repair expenditure, should allow the Board to make available about $7000 -$9000 for the project for 2006.

When the Board develops the budget for 2007, it would provide money to cover the remaining project costs and to restore reserves to desired levels. If the Board determined that it was prudent to restore reserves to current levels, then it would have to assess each lot owner an additional $60-$100 above the current dues level of $175 in order to pay for the project and replenish reserves. (A $100 assessment on our 147 lots generates $14,700.) If the Board determined that a lower reserve level, say $10,000, was enough, then the assessment increase could be somewhat less.

The Board will decide whether or not to go ahead with the project and the amount of reserves to spend in 2006 at its August 17, 2006 meeting at which time a Project Task Force will present the final design and complete cost estimates.

The following tables provide a framework for developing cost estimates for the project (including those figures provided by Brian) and an administrative plan for approving, funding, and implementing the project.