We seem to be at a crossroads for our neighborhood. There are so many needs yet not enough volunteers to help tip the balance in assuring that Memorial Northwest is the best place to live.

The Board of Directors has been focused on improving the governance processes by adhering to our governing documents, federal and state laws as well as other governing regulations. This fundamental process tends to be slow yet necessary to safeguard all.

This month, the Board of Directors will be selecting a nominating committee to solicit and register candidates for the 2017 Board of Directors. The nominating committee then reports to the membership at the September meeting those desiring to be on the ballot for the annual election meeting in October. The 2017 Board of Directors positions open are: Third Vice President (Deed Restriction & Architectural Control), Treasurer, Secretary, Area 1 Director, Area 3 Director, Area 5 Director and Area 7 Director. If you want to make a difference, please consider serving. All home owners may serve on the Board of Directors.

Another crossroad is maintaining our homes as they age. This is where Deed Restriction enforcement is a necessary tool maintain a minimum standard of quality. We are anticipating increasing our legal actions on your behalf in property foreclosures and lawsuits. This is one of the most difficult decisions a Board Members must make, but it is necessary to preserve our neighborhood. We anticipate using foreclosures and lawsuits on homes that have been abandoned or those owners refusing to pay assessments that provide for security, amenities and reserve funding for the future. As of June, we have nearly $174,000 in delinquent accounts. We will be focusing on those homes that neglect to make the major repairs to their property like rotten wood, damaged siding, painting, broken gutters and windows, dilapidated fences, etc.

So don’t get upset about the paragraph above. There is a high probability that I am not referring to you. Over 97% of the homes in our neighborhood are in great shape. Some homes are selling above $300,000. These homes have updated exteriors like concrete siding (not original cardboard), new mold/mildew resistant paints, double pain energy efficient windows, cedar fences, manicured landscaping, etc. Interior wise, bathrooms have been remodeled with modern fixtures and finishes. Kitchens have granite countertops (not laminate), new appliances and flooring. These investments appear to bring in top dollar and sell quickly.

Concerning our pool amenities, much work is needed to determine viable options for homeowners to consider. The previous planning work is no longer valid as market conditions have changed. Renovation and replacement costs have soared as pool companies have more projects than skilled labor can handle. New pool construction projects include competition, water play features and architecturally fabric deck shading. Renovation projects are trying to incorporate the same features.

Lastly, our committees consisting of homeowners have made great contributions in improving our operations and maintaining high quality standards. We still need help with safety and security and the social and educational committees.