Meeting Minutes

Seven Oaks

Residents Council Meeting Minutes

Of

January 5^th, 2010

 

 1.  Call to Order (7:10pm)

 

2.  Residents Council Members in Attendance:

Amberside-Jaclyn Lewis, Crosswinds-Joe Stewart, Edenfield-Steve Manieri for Charlene Manieri, Grassglen-Dave Lockwood, Knollpoint-Holly Hill, Palmetto Bend-Pedro Carrasquillo, Shoregrass-Mike Davis, The Laurels-Reta Parsons, Villas at Edenfield-Louise Esker.     

3.  Approval of the Minutes of the December 1^st, 2009 Residents Council Meeting: A motion to approve the minutes was made by Dave Lockwood and seconded by Pedro Carrasquillo. The minutes were approved.

4.  SOPOA Update presented by Holly Hill:

·      The SOPOA Board will be focusing the majority of their time over the next few months to review and amend the Seven Oaks Master Development Design Guidelines, particularly involving house color alterations. The goal is to eliminate the possibility for misinterpretation of guidelines by residents. Dave Mohren is leading the project. Updates will be provided on their progress.

5.  CDD Update presented by Bill Parsons:

                       

·      CDD I and CDD II Merger Update- Current expected date May/June 2010.

·      Sidewalk Issue- Mark Straley, Attorney for CDD, responded to a request for clarification of CDD’s responsibility for repairing damage to sidewalks from root formation. He determined the CDD is liable and recommended periodic inspections and work with SOPOA who is currently responsible for enforcement of repairs of cracks in sidewalks in front of residential property. The CDD will discuss this topic at the next meeting.

·      Side Openings on Gates- Rizzetta will request that Crown pay for narrowing the openings to prevent unauthorized vehicle access since they paid for Villas of Deer Run. The total expense for seven applicable gates is $5867. The CDD will discuss this topic at the next meeting.

·      District Property Concerns- An ownership map will be provided at the next meeting showing which properties belong to Crown and the CDD.

·      Golf Carts- State of Florida law prohibits golf carts usage on roads and on nature trails. Mark Straley will provide information on this topic at the next meeting.

·      CDD Newsletter- I Care contract currently states the CDD will have access to half the pages. Clubhouse Manager, Theresa Flores will negotiate with I Care to obtain a minimum number of pages guaranteed to CDD regardless of total pages present.

o   Assistant Clubhouse Manager, Charlene Manieri provided information concerning amount of advertising included in the newsletter and the request for pricing for 20-page newsletter in both black and white and color. An update will be provided at the next meeting.

·      Clubhouse Parking Lot- In response to illegal activity in the SO Clubhouse parking lot, the CDD posted a sign that will allow the Pasco Sheriff’s Office to patrol and respond accordingly on Clubhouse property.

·      Water Pressure- Vivicon identified a water pressure problem. It was determined that regulators were required on the irrigation system and would cost up to $2000 each. The water company assessed the pressure, however their meter does not exceed readings of 100 psi. SO has water pressure much higher than it should be perhaps due to the retention ponds present. Mark Straley advised the water company should pay for the regulators. Rizzetta will contact the water company and present an update at the next CDD meeting.

·      Domain Name- mysevenoaks.org domain ownership will be reviewed by CDD Supervisor, Stephen Wheeler and an update will be provided at the next meeting.

·      Rizzetta Management Company- It was noted the Resident Council Representatives present at the December CDD meeting discussed concerns involving Rizzetta’s role in investment of funds, Reserve Study, invoices, and Debt Service Account Reserve Fund going to the O&M. Rizzetta will provide their Scope of Services for review at the next meeting.

·      January Workshop, Capital Reserve Fund- Scheduled for January 27^th, 2010. The workshop will focus on preparing for future repairs to roads and buildings.

·      Bond Payments- Rizzetta will provide in chart form information detailing principal, required reserve balance, amount and date of transfers back to 2001 for reconciliation of records.

·      Water Bill- Chart noted large difference between SO water bills, which may indicate a leak or billing problem. CDD I Supervisor, Jack Christensen will provide an update at the next meeting.

·      Investments- Rizzetta was asked to open a new 3 month CD in the General O&M Fund for $500,000. Debt Services Account pays both bond payments for the year in May and November. Over $1 million was earning .01%. That was changed at the last meeting and $1,200,000 was placed in a 3 month CD to make the May payment and any profit will be invested in a 6 month CD until Nov 1^st. Debt Service’s Account contains $1,900,000 and the money is set aside to cover bond payments, but is restricted to 270 day investment window. Rizzetta is reviewing the account and will report back.

·      Painting Bike Lanes- $3,063 for CDD I and $5,437 CDD II, approved for painting bike lanes. End caps will also be painted and will cost $650 for CDD I and $790 for CDD II.

·      Landscaping Reports- Rizzetta started new process to monitor Vivicon’s landscaping practices and provide the CDD with detailed reports noting areas in need of improvement.

·      Illegal Dumping- Illegal dumping activity was discovered behind the Dunkin Donuts and Pasco County Sherriff’s Office was contacted. They will enforce a no-trespassing directive.

·      Revenue Sheets- Request made to Rizzetta to provide revenue sheets. More information will be provided in the future.

·      Street Lights- 12 Street lights were unaccounted for from the audit by the RC. This saved the CDD $3592.80. The electric company will need to agree to the discrepancy and reconcile the CDD account. Will be retroactive.

·      Clubhouse: Drug Testing/Background Checks- Decision was made to continue the drug testing and background checks for employees at $72 per check. The Board will discuss checking the vendors as well.

·      Water Fountain Hours/Stains- 4 hour restriction still in effect, will be operational 5-9pm. The RC Reps were concerned with the appearance of painted brick. Suggestions were made to contact other communities with brick fountains for their maintenance practices or add a water softener to prevent future damage. The CDD Maintenance staff will provide the Board with estimates for painting the brick.

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5.  UNFINISHED BUSINESS:

·      Chinese Drywall Information- Due to time constraints, this topic will be summarized by the Chairman and distributed to the RC Representatives via email.

·      Neighborhood Email Contact Lists- Continued progress on updating the lists by Representatives.  It is extremely important that homeowners give their email address to their Resident Council Representative so that they can be informed of crucial information about our community.

·      Crosswinds Concerns: Standard Pacific’s Lot Purchase- Concerns were raised about Standard Pacific building homes for 50 ft lots on the existing 60 ft lots of lesser quality than the existing Smith Family homes present. Concerns over falling housing prices for Crosswinds residents as a result of this issue were conveyed as well.

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6.         NEW BUSINESS:

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·      December 9^th CDD Meeting Recap: The Representatives were updated on the CDD Meeting and the concerns expressed to the Board. One point to highlight from the meeting resulted in the discovery that the expectations of the SO Residents may not match the scope of services Rizzetta provides. The CDD expressed their desire to address the concerns of the Resident Council and accept feedback on topics discussed. A directive from CDD II Chairman, Jeff Rosenberg was made to create a committee comprised of Resident Council members and one CDD Board member to look at the contract/scope of services and make recommendations of things that should be added or non performance that we can ask them to improve on. Additionally, he noted the Board will discuss the expectations at the next meeting and asked RC Liaison to the CDD, Bill Parsons to get the expectations of the RC to present to the Board. The RC discussed multiple options to present to the Board including altering the Scope of Services through the committee option presented at the CDD meeting, presenting a list of expectations for a management company to prevent further issues or request to rebid the contract and form of committee to review management options. Further discussion will commence at the next RC meeting.

·      Neighborhood Vandalism Concerns- The RC discussed the recent reports of vandalism to holiday decorations in Brookforest, Amberside and Shoregrass. It was also reported that vandalism occurred to the playground/park area in Palmetto Bend. All SO residents are advised to stay vigilant and report suspicious activity or information concerning these reports to the SO Crime Watch Patrol and their neighborhood representative.

o   Solicitor Law Reviewed- In Pasco County, a solicitor can be present within SO if they have a permit. However, if they have a permit and the resident places a “NO Soliciting” sign above their doorbell, they cannot by law solicit at your home. If they do not have a permit, they cannot solicit at your home regardless if you have a sign or not. Mailboxes are off limits as well. Solicitors cannot place material inside, outside or on the post according the Pasco Law. Please report offenders to the Pasco Sherriff’s Office (813) 929-1204 and your neighborhood representative.

·      Newspaper Vendor Gate Access- The SOPOA Board requested feedback from the RC regarding their feelings on allowing gate access for non-subscribed newspaper vendors (The Laker, etc). The RC Reps unanimously agreed to NOT allow gate access for these papers. It was suggested to ask the newspaper companies in question to drop off the papers at the clubhouse in a designated area to allow residents to pick them up at their discretion thereby eliminating the pile up and littering of papers throughout the neighborhoods and unnecessary gate access.

·      Alternate RC Representatives- The Chairman requested each RC Representative designate an alternate representative and provide the Chair with their information. Alternate Reps are important to have in order to share responsibilities and take the place of the Rep at meetings in their absence. This will ensure that each neighborhood is represented and their needs met at each meeting.

·      Review of RC Guidelines- The current established RC Guidelines were reviewed to determine if updates are necessary. The following changes were made (underlined below) and will be posted on mysevenoak.com:

I.     Purpose of the Council:  Help resolve Seven Oaks resident issues.

 

II.    Meetings:  The Council will meet the first Tuesday of each month in the Gathering Room of the Seven Oaks Clubhouse at 7 p.m.  Residents are welcome to attend.

 

III.     Membership:  Membership of the Council consists of a representative from each neighborhood in Seven Oaks.  Each representative will identify an alternate representative to attend meetings in their absence.

 

IV.     Council Members’ Responsibilities:  The Council members are expected to keep a current listing of the names, street addresses, telephone numbers, and email addresses of the residents in their neighborhood to include current renters.  This will allow them to communicate with the residents to identify issues and keep the residents informed on the resolution of the issues. When the resident identifies an issue, the representative’s action will depend on the type of issue.  Issues fall into three categories:

a.      Issue Involves Only One Resident:  For issues that involve only one resident, the Council member should ask the resident to work directly with their appropriate organization (builder, Crown, SOPOA Board / DRC, CDD I Board, CDD II Board, etc).  This would be issues such as landscaping for their yard or changes to the exterior of their house.

b.      Issue Involves More Than One Resident in Their Neighborhood:  For issues involving more than one resident in their neighborhood, the Council member should determine how the majority of the residents want the issue solved.  Then, they should work with the appropriate organization to solve the issue.  This would be issues such as problems with their neighborhood park or ponds.

c.      Issue Involves More Than Just Their Neighborhood:  For issues affecting more than just their neighborhood, the Council member should bring the issue to the Council meetings.   The Council will decide a course of action to resolve the problem.  This would be issues such as changes to all parks in Seven Oaks, changes to the operation of the clubhouse, and safety issues on the main streets.   

 

V.       Positions:   The Council consists of a Chairman, Vice Chairman, and Recorder.  Residents are nominated by the current Chairman and approved by the Representatives present in November and will begin their terms in January. The Chairman will provide notice of their intended nominees at the October meeting. Additional nominations will be accepted from the Representatives at the November meeting. In the case of multiple candidates, the Representatives present will vote for their choice. These positions have the following responsibilities:

a.      Chairman

·  Prepares agenda for Council meetings, conducts Council meetings, and distributes minutes of Council meetings

·  Works with the appropriate organization to resolve residents issues involving more than one neighborhood

·  Keeps Council members informed and helps them on issues

·  Maintains a list of names, street addresses, telephone numbers, and email addresses of the primary and alternate Council members

·  Submits Council article and list of members for each Seven Oaks Newsletter

b.     Vice Chairman:  Acts in the capacity as Chairman when Chairman is not available

                        c.      Recorder:  Takes accurate notes at the Council meeting.  Provides transcribed minutes to the Chairman within 4 days of the meeting.

·      Planning Workshop of 2010 RC Goals- The Representatives discussed the 2010 calendar and topics they would like to explore.

o   CDD Involvement- Continue to work with the CDD to address issues from the neighborhood and make every attempt to attend each meeting to offer support and stay informed of community projects and concerns.

o   CDD/Resident Council Committee- Move forward with the proposed committee to review vendors and express areas of concerns and suggestions for improvement when needed.

o   Community Awareness- Continue to explore education options concerning sex offender restrictions within SO, child and personal safety, and request local law enforcement to brief on current concerns/preventative measures

o   Protecting Home- Involve the Crime Watch Patrol on issues involving protecting your home and personal property. Encourage community awareness and reporting of suspicious activity.

o   Real Estate/Home Value Sessions- Work with local real estate experts to help homeowners protect their home values, information on selling in today’s market as well as a complete market analysis including projections for recovery.

o   Guest speakers will be invited to attend our meetings including though not limited to: Commissioner Pat Mulieri, Pasco County Sherriff Bob White, State Representative Will Weatherford and State Senator Victor Crist.

·      Vice Chairman Nomination- Pedro Carrasquillo was nominated by the Chairman to hold the position of Vice Chairman. A motion to approve Pedro Carrasquillo as Vice Chairman was made by Joe Stewart and seconded by Michael Davis. The motion was approved.

7.         OPEN FLOOR, RESIDENT QUESTIONS. No comments at this time.

8.         Meeting Adjourned at 8:45PM

The next Resident Council Meeting will be on Tuesday, February 2nd, 2010, at 7PM.

Seven Oaks

Residents Council Meeting Minutes

Of

December 1, 2009

 

 1.  Call to Order (7:00pm)

 

2.  Residents Council Members in Attendance     

Resident Council	Members	In Attendance
Amberside:       Jaclyn Lewis-Croswell	No	Pinecrest:      Pete Szakacs	No
		Shoregrass:   Mike Davis	Yes
Brookforest:     Needs Rep		Silverleaf:     Jim Royalty	No
Copperleaf:      Needs Rep		Springwood:  Dave Mohren	No
Coventry:         Needs Rep		Stillbrook:    Jon Valls	Yes
Crosswinds:     Joe Stewart	Yes	Stonecreek:  Not Yet built
Edenfield:      Steve Manieri for                          Charlene Manieri	Yes	The Laurels:  Reta Parsons	Yes
Fairgate:        Brian Donley	No	Villas of Deer Run:  Ralph Palomba	No
Forest Edge:  Melissa Cone	No	Villas at Edenfield:                       Jerry Brown (Chair)	Yes
Grassglen:     Dave Lockwood	Yes	Villas of Willow Creek:  Pat Lewis	No
Knollpoint:    Holly Hill	Yes	Watermark: Not Yet built
Lakeside:         Needs Rep		Willowstone: Steve Appel  for                      Denise Nicholas	Yes
Palmetto Bend:  Pedro Carrasquillo	Yes

3. Approval of the Minutes of the November 3^trd 2009 Residents Council Meeting. A motion to approve the minutes was made by Reta Parsons and seconded by Joe Stewart. The “Minutes” were approved.

 

4. SOPOA Update presented by Holly Hill.

* DRC Chairman, Dave Mohren, is working hard to streamline the DRC process to ensure user satisfaction.

* Gate Codes: Susan Thomas, of Rampart, will be changing some of the existing builder’s codes that may have been as well known as the Fire Dept. Code.

* The past year’s SOPOA Board Meeting Minutes have been added to the new www.mysevenoaks.com website. The old SOPOA website will be discontinued.

* SOPOA has reviewed the wording of the first “Friendly Reminder” letter sent to homeowners by Rampart Properties for deed restriction violations. The Board concluded that the letter does not contain strong language or state the threat of fines as was reported by homeowners who complained that the verbiage was too harsh. The Board agreed that this letter is a true “friendly reminder” and gives homeowners ample opportunity to correct issues.

* The date of the December SOPOA Meeting has been changed to December 15^th at 7PM.

 

5. CDD Update:        

           

·               Supervisor Bill Parsons discussed the status of the CDD Merger: It was originally expected to be accomplished by December 2008, then December 2009, and the current expected date is May/June 2010. The original projected legal fees to accomplish this were $20,000 and the current projected amount is upwards of $60,000.

·               Bill discovered that we were paying for a Withlacoochee Electric (Bond) on 28 accounts in CDD I and 35 accounts on CDD II. Rizzetta will be looking into getting a waiver from WREC in light of the excellent credit of our CDD’s.

·               Bill is looking into what seems to be an extremely high electric Bill for the Clubhouse and Pool totaling $4,165.

·               The Streetlamp Audit is being completed to be certain that we are paying WREC only for the lights that actually exist on Seven Oaks property since we are leasing these street lamps at $24.95 per month per lamp.

·               The Club Managers have done an excellent job of reducing the expenses for Food, Beverage, and Supplies in the Café’ by $15,695 while increasing Revenue by $3,500, resulting in a Gross profit of $26,647. However, Labor expenses ($66,000) resulted in a Net Loss of $39, 414.

·               Elevated Water Pressure within the Seven Oaks irrigation system has been identified and will require the placement of 4 water regulators in CDD I (~$2,000 each).

·               Recurring Bond expenses of $50,000/year for our 3 outstanding Bond Series (2001A, 2003A, 2004A&B), in addition to Trustee Fees.

·               Mitigation expenses of $4818 for two areas.

·               Bill has asked Rizzetta for a spreadsheet showing the amounts of money that have been transferred from the Bonds’ Debt Services Account to the O&M Account as the principle on the Bonds is being paid down.

·               CDD Funds have been transferred from low interest-bearing accounts to CD’s earning significantly more interest (from 0.15% previously to 2.27% currently). With these funds adding up to $1.5 million that is a significant earnings advantage. $300,000 will be left in a money market account earning 1.26% for ready access, when necessary.

·               Rizzetta has been asked to provide “Revenue Sheets” documenting funds coming into the CDD Accounts, similar to the “Expense Sheets” that they already provide.

·               A parcel of land has been identified north of the utility easement, west of Palmetto Bend, next to I-75 where there is a triangular portion still owned by SB Associates (Crown). There is also a Sprint phone tower in the vicinity.

·               Rizzetta has been asked by Bill to make sure all the Seven Oaks property that is supposed to be owned by the CDD has been conveyed to the CDD, to get a map of Seven Oaks showing all property still owned by SB Associates (Crown), and to find out if the Sprint phone tower is on CDD property. Still awaiting research to be completed for final answers on these issues.

·               Rizzetta is researching the current water restrictions governing fountain usage.

·               The broken Crosswinds entrance sign is being replaced for $4,500.

·               Delayed repair of Clubhouse Lap Pool until revenue received by the CDD. Bill suggested that if funding O & M expenses in October/November is a problem that a line item should be made available in the next budget to use borrowed “Reserve Funds for such expenses. Bill emailed Rizzetta saying that these types of repairs should not be delayed because the homeowners are paying O & M fees for these amenities to be maintained and property values may be affected by the CDD giving the impression that it is having funding problems.

 

 

 

 

6.         UNFINISHED BUSINESS:

Discussion- Bill Parsons was asked why he was the one discovering issues like $1.5 million remaining in a low interest-bearing account,) multiple errors in the Engineer’s “Reserve Study,” etc. He was asked if these were issues the Management Company (Rizzetta) should be expected to handle? He was asked if it was true that Rizzetta was being paid ~$135,000/year for these services? Steve Appel had attended the November 11^th CDD Board Meeting and brought to the Board’s attention some (but not all) of the items of concern that were brought up for discussion at the November 3^rd Resident Council Meeting. Steve stated that he did not receive any definitive answers from the Board to the questions he raised and he had reservations about being more persistent and about addressing any of the other concerns raised at the Resident Council Meeting. He also described how some of the CDD Board Members were angered by the inclusion of these issues in the “Meeting Minutes” that were distributed to the neighborhoods. Some Board members even questioned the existence of the Resident Council since “it as no authority.” Another asked a Resident Council Representative in attendance “What is wrong with the Resident Council?” So, the concerns we discussed at our November 3^rd Resident Council Meeting remain unanswered and several Representatives recommended that all of the Resident Council Representatives attend the Wednesday, December 9^t,h CDD Board Meeting, en masse, with the objective of bringing all of these concerns to the attention of the Board in the hope that we will then be able to bring their responses back to the Seven Oaks homeowners. Jerry again reiterated that none of the items brought up for discussion were meant to be indictments of our CDD Board members and he read excerpts of the “Minutes” that supported this precisely. We all agreed that it is in the best interest of the Seven Oaks Community if the CDD Boards, the SOPOA Board, and the Resident Council interact synergistically. For example, auditing the streetlamps for the CDD, forwarding the CDD’s monthly Meeting Agendas via the Resident Council email chain, etc. were all carried out by the Resident Council at the request of the CDD.

 

The remainder of the items on the Meeting Agenda were tabled until the next Resident Council Meeting on January 5^th, 2009 due to time constraints.

7.         OPEN FLOOR, RESIDENT QUESTIONS.

8.         Meeting Adjourned at 8:45PM

ATTENTION ALL REPRESENTATIVES:

Please attend the December 9^th CDD Board Meeting-

We All Need To Be There !!!!

1. Call to Order (7:00pm)

2. Residents Council Members in Attendance

3. Approval of the Minutes of the October 6^th, 2009 Residents Council Meeting. A motion to approve the minutes was made by Dave Mohren and seconded by Melissa Cone. The minutes were approved.

4. SOPOA Update presented by Holly Hill.

* At the October 2009 SOPOA meeting, board members were assigned to committees. Josh Green was assigned to the Seven Oaks Website Committee. Dave Mohren was assigned to the DRC Committee, and Joe Stewart was assigned to the Covenant Oversight Committee. All board members will be on the Special Projects Committee.

* Treasurer Jack Christiansen is currently working with Susan Thomas of Rampart Properties to consolidate the SOPOA bank accounts into one financial institution.

* The SOPOA board is putting the finishing touches on Swing Set guidelines for

the Community.

* SOPOA has officially moved to the new website for Seven Oaks – www.MySevenOaks.com.

5. UNFINISHED BUSINESS:

Collection Of Street Lamp Maps- The Resident Council was asked by the CDD Boards to count the street lamps in Seven Oaks and compare the number of poles counted with the number of poles on a map that Withlacoochie Electric provided to see if what the Community is being charged for coincides with the number of street lamps that actually exist. We currently lease the street lamps from WREC at a cost of $300 per year per Street Lamp. The Representatives all completed their “audits” and the Maps were turned back in to the Chair.

Neighborhood Email Contact Lists- are still being updated by the Representatives. It is extremely important that homeowners give their email address to their Resident Council Representative so that they can be informed of crucial information about our community.

Community Rules Committee- is meeting every 2 weeks until all issues and ‘loopholes’ are covered as it pertains to our current policies. A booklet to all homeowners will be issued once complete. The CDD board has asked that the Committee expedite the review of existing policies and procedures. The Committee meetings take place in the afternoon as well as the evening to accommodate homeowner’s schedules. Please attend if you would like offer your comments and suggestions to the Committee members.

6. NEW BUSINESS:

CDD board member Bill Parsons was asked by the Resident Council to give the presentation that he had given to the CDD Board on September 16^th, 2009.

His presentation included the following information:

CDD Assessments have had the following increases: 2002/2003(57%), 2003/2004(18%), 2004/2005(49%), 2005/2006(4%), 2006/2007(2%), 2007/2008(4%), 2008/2009(0%), 2009/2010(2%). The 49% increase in 2004/2005 was due to Crown’s no longer supplementing the CDD’s to keep the Assessments low.

The Developer-controlled CDD Boards allocated the following amounts to the “reserve fund” for road repair, Clubhouse repair, etc: 2004/2005 ($25K), 2005/2006 ($150K), 2006/2007 ($125K), 2007/2008 ($125K), 2008/2009 ($96K). With some other funds added to the “Reserve” account when the resident-controlled Board took over in Nov., 2008 the reserve fund balance was only $441K for both CDD’s.

The Board hired a new Engineer in Jan., 2009 his first task was to do a study (Reserve Study) to determine how much money needed to be added to the Reserve Fund for the 2009/2010 Budget Year. Based on that study $217K was added to the Fund for the 2009/2010 Budget Year.

The CDD Board carefully reviewed this Reserve Study prior to a “Planning Workshop” held on Sept, 16^th, 2009 and discovered over 60 errors to include: omission of neighborhoods, omission of streets, and incorrect cost data for some neighborhoods, etc.

Based on the revised Reserve Study it will require the Reserve Fund be increased in the 2010/2011 Budget from $217K to $359K to fully fund the reserves. This results in a 5.5% increase in the O & M portion of the CDD Assessment. This will result in an increase of $38 for a 40 ft. lot to a maximum of $86 for a 90 ft. lot.

If the CDD Assessments are not increased to adequately fund for Reserves, the Board could choose to fund it with a Bond. However, there are many costs associated with a Bond, i.e., interest, underwriting costs, additional reserve money(required by Bond investors as a security deposit), as well as other annual recurring costs. If funding of the Reserve is continued at the current amount of $217,000 it will require the CDD Boards to take out approximately $8 million in Bonds.

The conclusion given in this briefing was that the Bond Option was expensive and full funding of the Reserve was achievable with a 5.5% increase in only the O & M portion of the CDD Assessment and would avoid the excessive costs associated with obtaining a Bond.

CLICK THE ABOVE IMAGE TO ENLARGE

Discussion- Jerry Brown provided some facts for the Resident Council, and

members of the audience: Jerry began by stating that what he was about to say was

not an indictment of the current resident-controlled CDD Board. Jerry believes

this Board to be extremely conscientious and with no hidden agendas. They have

demonstrated that they will listen to the citizens of Seven Oaks and that is why

Jerry encouraged homeowners to attend the CDD Meetings.

1) When we pay our property tax there are two portions to the “Notice:”

the “Ad Valorem Taxes,” and the “Non-Ad Valorem Assessments.” Our

CDD Assessment is part of the “Non-Ad Valorem Assessment” and the

dollar amount is determined by our lot size. The money that we pay goes

in two different directions; Part of it goes into an “Operations and

Maintenance Account,” and the other portion goes into a “Debt Service

Account.” Part of the money placed into this “O & M Account” is used to

pay for the Community’s bills (called Operating Fund or General Fund), i.e.,

Landscaping, Irrigation, Clubhouse salaries, Legal Fees, Property

Manager’s Fees (Rizzetta & Co.). Part of the money going into the O & M

Account goes into a Reserve Fund (also called the Capital Project Reserve

Fund). which is used to fund large (expensive) capital projects such as:

Repaving/resurfacing roadways, replacing the Clubhouse roof, resurfacing

the swimming pools. The “Debt Services Account,” mentioned above, is the

money used to pay off our Class A Bonds, which have a 30-year maturity

from the date they were issued. The other money in the “Debt Services

Account” is used to fund another “Reserve” Fund which is required by the

investors in this Class A Bond as a “security deposit.” So, the “Reserve”

money currently available to be used for roadways, and other large capital

projects is only $450,000-for both CDD’s! The other “Reserve Fund,” in the

“Debt Services Account,” is being used as a security deposit and is $1.2

million, at present. We all signed-off on repaying the Class A Bond when we

purchased our homes in Seven Oaks and we were told that when the Bond

is paid off at it’s 30-year maturity we would only be paying into the

“Operations & Maintenance Account.” Thus, the amount of our CDD

Assessments would decrease. One of the options presented by Rizzetta and Co.

(our management company) for funding our Capital Project Reserve Fund (in

the future) is to keep the amount of the CDD Assessment the same-even after

the Class A Bond has been fully paid off.

2) The “merger” of CDD 1 and CDD 2, which was supposed to have been completed in December of 2008 is still ongoing. We were told by our management company (Rizzetta & Co.), and the CDD Boards’ attorney (our District Council), Mark Straley, at a January, 2008 “Public Workshop,” that the “estimated” legal expenses to accomplish this “merger” would be approximately $20,000. The actual cost for legal council, thus far, is $54,000.

3) Part of our CDD Assessment goes toward paying an “Engineer” who helps identify the expenditures necessary to maintain Seven Oaks. One of the services the Engineer is paid to provide is the creation of a “Reserve Study” which in turn helps

our CDD Boards create their annual budget. At a recent CDD “Workshop” I learned that over 60 errors were identified in this Engineer’s “Reserve Study” including the omission of several of our Community’s neighborhood streets from calculations that affected the creation of our current budget.

4) Which begs the next question: should the information provided to our Engineer, prior to the completion of his study, been more carefully monitored by our management company (Rizzetta). Rizzetta gets paid $135,000 per year by the CDD’s for their services. Rizzetta is a hold-over from the Crown-controlled CDD Boards that were in place at the inception of Seven Oaks and prior to our current resident-controlled CDD Boards taking over. They were hired by Crown to manage this Community, as well as Crown’s Watergrass Community. The major part of Rizzetta’s community management business comes from developers like Crown, and the length of their business relationship coupled with the amount of money they have received from the Crown-controlled CDD Boards makes it likely that they have a degree of allegiance to Crown, as well as to other developers. This at least raises the question: when Rizzetta & Co. provides advice the current resident-controlled CDD Board, especially when it concerns issues related to our developer (Crown), can we believe that this advice will be objective.

5) Rizzetta & Co. advised our CDD Board to grant permission to Crown, in response to their request to allow extension of the maturity date for their $10 million Class B Bond. The Board was told that their would be no expense to our Community for granting permission to gain this extension. It was recently revealed at a CDD Meeting that there are, in fact, significant recurring charges to the Community as a result of this Bond extension. This was discovered by somebody other than our Management Company.

6) Rizzetta & Co. is responsible for the placement of our “Reserve Funds” in an interest-bearing account. It was recently discovered that Rizzetta had been keeping approximately $1.5 million in an account earning only 0.15% interest.

7) Our CDD’s attorney (District Council), is also a holdover from the previously Crown-controlled CDD Board and like Rizzetta, has, and continues to have a long term relationship with Crown, and numerous other developers. The question again has to be asked: is there at least the possibility of a conflict of interest present when our Board asks for this attorney’s advice?

8) The “Capital Projects Reserve Fund” is a source of money for things that someday the Community must have, i.e., roadways, Clubhouse roof. Whereas, monies for improvement of our Community’s amenities, i.e., a larger gymnasium, an extension of our nature trail, are for things that would be nice to have but if we didn’t have them we would still be able to thrive within Seven Oaks.

9) Adequately funding our “Reserves,” as well as improving our Community’s amenities, will all mean that more money will be coming out of each homeowner’s pocket. Jerry strongly encouraged the homeowners to attend CDD Meetings so they can be part of the process! Next Meeting: Wednesday, Nov. 11^th at 6:30PM

Resident Council member Melissa Cone of Forest Edge gave a presentation on the current status of the Crown building next to our clubhouse. When Seven Oaks was first created in 2001-2002, the proposal that was accepted by the county, and shown to the Bond Investors, builders, and eventual homeowners, outlined the entire parcel that the clubhouse sits on, including the Crown building and it’s adjacent property, as parcel S12. Crown, over the years, has tried on a few occasions to separate the building they work in from the clubhouse parcel and rezone it as commercial so they can sell it off to the highest commercial bidder. The Resident Council caught wind of this and has successfully stopped them in recent years. Melissa recently found through her research that Crown was indeed successful in separating the Crown building from the S12 parcel that it originally sat on. We know that Crown wants to sell this building and as of today it is still zoned as an “Accessory” to our clubhouse for recreational purposes. Questions have been asked if Crown had the right to separate the building/parcel from the Clubhouse/Recreation Complex. Do our CDD fees, that are being used to pay off the bond that was taken out to build the clubhouse and the Crown building already give us ownership of that building? Melissa has also discovered that there is an area within Parcel S-12, previously approved for parking spaces, that could possibly be used for building a recreational facility annex instead of the CDD Board choosing to purchase the Crown office building for this purpose. If interested in this topic, please visit Melissa’s website at HYPERLINK "http://www.7oaksnews.com" www.7oaksnews.com.

Neighborhood parks landscaping issues. Steve Manieri of Edenfiled will be drafting a letter to our District Manager to inform him of deficiencies in the maintenance of some of our neighborhood parks . Bill Parsons, of the CDD Board, said that it would be added to the “Agenda” for the next CDD meeting.

David Lockwood brought up the concerns of the Grassglen neighborhood re:

the amount of space that exists on both sides of their entrance gate which is

wide enough to allow vehicles to circumvent the gates and ride through. It was

pointed out by Jerry that Joe Stewart had previously brought this same issue

to the attention of the CDD Board with regards to Crosswinds, Lakeside, and

the Knollpoint neighborhoods. The District Manager, Scott Brizendine, was

to research what could be done to remedy this situation. Jerry urged Joe, and

David to attend the next CDD Meeting and follow-up on this issue.

Announcement- Jerry Brown, current Chairman of the Seven Oaks Resident Council, announced that he would be stepping down, effective January 1^st, 2010. He nominated Knollpoint’s Resident Council Representative, Holly Hill to become the next Chairperson. A motion was made to nominate Holly, and it was seconded. Holly will begin her term on January 1^st, 2010.

Melissa Cone announced the recreation of the website: www.7oaksnews.com. The website will include news about the Seven Oaks Community and will feature a blog for insightful commentary about Community issues and events, as well as archived feature stories from Seven Oaks News. Jerry Brown commented on how clear, and concise the website appeared.

7. OPEN FLOOR, RESIDENT QUESTIONS.

8. Meeting Adjourned at 8:45PM

The next Resident Council Meeting will be on Tuesday, Dec. 1^st, 2009, at 7PM.

Seven Oaks

Residents Council Meeting Minutes

Of

October 6, 2009

 

1. Call to Order (7:00PM)

 

2.  Residents Council Members in Attendance: Amberside-Jaclyn Lewis, Crosswinds-Joe Stewart, Edenfield-Charlene Manieri, Fairgate-Brian Donley, Grassglen-Dave Lockwood, Knollpoint-Joshua Green for Holly Hill, Palmetto Bend-Pedro Carrasquillo, Pinecrest-Pete Szakacs, Shoregrass-Mike Davis, Silverleaf-Jim Royalty, Springwood, Dave Mohren, Stillbrook-Jon Valls, The Laurels-Reta Parsons, Villas at Edenfield-Jerry Brown, Willowstone-Steve Appel for Denise Nicholas.     

 

3. Approval of the Minutes of the September 1st, 2009 Residents Council Meeting. A motion to approve the minutes was made by Brian Donley and seconded by Jon Valls. The minutes were approved.

 

4. SOPOA Update was given by the new President, Gary Lemberg.

 Four new members were appointed to the Board since there were not sufficient proxies received, or homeowners present for a quorum. The new SOPOA Board members are: Holly Hill,

Joe Stewart, Joshua Green, and Dave Mohren. Gary reiterated the importance of the Resident Council within the Community and looks forward to the SOPOA Board working closely together with the Council.

 

5. Unfinished Business

            a) Mental Health Facility Update- Commissioner Mullieri finally was able to speak with

                Sherry Magee, of Ten Broeck, the entity granted a Certificate of Need (CON) to build a             Mental Health Facility within zip codes 33543, 33544, and in the vicinity of Bruce B.                           Downs. Ms. Magee informed the Commissioner that they had been granted a 3 year 

               extension of their “CON” by the Agency For Healthcare Administration (AHCA).

               She also stated that they are not interested in locating their facility within Seven Oaks.

 

              The Commissioner explained that the likely reason for their decision to delay proceeding

              construction within their original eighteen month CON “window” is that Bay Care has

              recently acquired a vacant hospital building (formerly Charter Oak Hospital) on S.R. 54

              in Lutz and will be turning it into a Mental Health Facility similar to what Ten Broeck

             planned when seeking their Certificate of Need earlier this year. This facility, which will

             accommodate Baker/Marchman Act patients, like the Ten Broeck Facility, will be open in

             12 months. Apparently, Ten Broeck will wait to see what kind of competition the Bay 

            Bay Care Facility will pose before proceeding with their 15.7 million dollar project in 

             Wesley Chapel.

          b) Resident Council Reps Updates of “Neighborhood Email Contact Lists”- Shoregrass RC

             Rep Michael Davis, and Palmetto Bend RC Rep Pedro Carrasquillo were thanked for

             updating the contact information for their neighborhoods. Jerry, again emphasized the

             importance of having all of the Resident Council Representatives updating these “lists”

            so that we have the ability to quickly communicate with all of our neighbors

            electronically. Jerry and Pedro repeated their offer to help the other Reps collect this

            information when going door-to-door. This information will be in the sole possession of

            the Resident Council Representative of each neighborhood and will not be shared. It is

            important to emphasize this when collecting this info from your neighbors.

   

         c) Community Clubhouse Rules Committee Meeting Update- was given by Charlene

            Manieri. The Committee has been meeting two times per month to review the existing

            Clubhouse Rules and make recommendations to the CDD Board for modifications and

            enhancements. Charlene spoke of some of the Committee’s discussions concerning the

            number of guests permitted, access cards for homeowners and/or their tenants, access

            cards for commercial building owners and/or their tenants, and “Gathering Room”

            rental/usage considerations. The Committee will be presenting suggestions to the CDD

            Board who will ultimately decide which suggestions to accept as Clubhouse policy. 

             

          d) Crosswinds/Palmetto Bend Neighborhood Concerns- Gary Lemberg, SOPOA’s new

             President, told us that new subcontractors for the “Forced Mowing” program are being

             considered and the SOPOA Property Manager will monitor the 6 week schedule

             carefully. Joe Stewart stated that Crosswinds is close to its scheduled mowing of it’s

             vacant lots by SOPOA. He questioned whether the 6 week schedule is adequate during

             the “rainy season.” The possibility of placing vacated properties in receivership and

             collecting maintenance expenses, such as mowing, from the mortgage holder is being

             explored to relieve the financial burden of Community HOA’s.

 

6. New Business.

            a) Wiregrass Ranch Prescribed Burn- the Florida Division of Forestry (FDOF) will be

                utilizing a “Prescribed Burn” on the Porter Ranch (Wiregrass Ranch) in 

                Wesley Chapel beginning Monday, October 5^th, and ending Friday, October 9th.

            b) Firewise Community Plan?-Jerry explained how the Resident Council was told by the

                Florida Division of Forestry at the June, 2009 Resident Council Meeting that their

                survey of the Seven Oaks Community revealed that some of our homes were at

                “moderate risk” from wildfires. Don Ruths, of the FDOF even displayed photos of

                homes within our Community that were examples of inadequate “defensible space” for

                firefighters, as well as the dangerous proximity of vegetation that serve as fuels 

               (Palmetto Plants).

                Resident Council Representative Dave Mohren even saw a slide of his home used as

   one of these examples. Using a scoring methodology, the FDOF gave us a score of 62 as

   a result of their survey. Since the “moderate risk” category includes scores from 50-75

   the FDOF suggested creating a “Firewise Committee,” which included members of the

   the Resident Council, the CDD, and SOPOA, so that a mitigation plan could be

   formulated. The FDOF agreed to clear any vegetation that would create a better  

   “defensible space,” at no charge to the Community, as long as the CDD Boards would

   agree to pay for the annual care required to maintain these treated areas. In order to

   determine whether this annual maintenance was affordable for the CDD more surveys

   were necessary to narrow down the specific neighborhoods, as well as the specific streets

   and homes on these streets that required treatment. The Firewise Committee proceeded 

   to meet four times and on September 29^th we were told by the FDOF that the only three

   neighborhoods requiring “mitigation” were Springwood (Kirkwood Circle), Edenfield

   (northeast side of Sunwatch Dr.), and Shoregrass (east side of Loggerhead Way). The

   District Mgr of the CDD Boards, as well as the Boards’ Chairman felt that it would be

   possible to affordably maintain this limited amount of CDD property behind these

   homes. At the time Don Ruths, of the FDOF, did this last Community assessment our

   “Firewise score” dropped from 62 to 54, which kept us in the lower end of the

   “moderate risk” range (50-75). Then on Friday, October 2^nd, I received an email from

   Mr. Ruths stating that the areas of Springwood, and Edenfield,  previously identified as

   requiring treatment, were no longer in need of attention, and only the homes on one

   side, of one street in Shoregrass, would require mitigation treatment by the FDOF. Mr.

   Ruths was to meet with a representative of SWFWMD on Monday, October 5^th, for their

   approval of this “plan.” Members of the “Firewise Committee” were present for this

   meeting. After walking behind the homes on the east side of Loggerhead Way and

   identifying exactly what was to be done, Mr. Ruths last statement was, “none of these

   are at risk for any structural damage as a result of a fire occurring in these wildlands.”

   Therefore, no mitigation is absolutely necessary despite the photos, multiple meetings,

   and surveys. One thing to be taken from this is that homeowners should not undertake

   any clearing of brush, or trees behind your property line without getting permission

   from the CDD Board, SWFWMD, Pasco County, or the Army Corps of Engineers

   before doing so. The SWFWMD citations carry some hefty fines, I am told.

c) CDD Planning Workshop Update- given by Bill Parsons, the CDD’s Liaison to the RC

   Council. The workshop was held on September 16^th. At the workshop Bill gave an

   update to the Boards on the “Reserve Study” and identified some errors in the original

   study. The Board discussed some strategies for funding the “Reserve Fund” and these

   will be  researched and discussed in detail at future workshops. Based on suggestions 

   from Board members, the mysevenoaks.com survey, and homeowners in the audience,

   potential capital improvements were identified and itemized on the basis of “Short-Term

   Improvements,” and “Long-Term Improvements.” The next “Capital Improvement

   Workshop,” will be held on Thursday, October 22^nd, at 6:30PM, in the Clubhouse

   Gathering Room.” This is a Public Meeting and you and your neighbors should be

   notified and encouraged to attend.

d) CDD Board Request For Counting Neighborhood Street Lights- Bill explained that

    WREC is charging the Community about $25/month for each of our street lamps. The

   CDD has asked for the help of the Resident Council Representatives to count the

   number of street lamps within their neighborhood and compare them to what is

   identified on the map of their neighborhood that was distributed to each RC Rep. This

 

 

   task should be completed by the November 3^rd Resident Council Meeting. Jerry pointed

   out that some of the numbers that are supposed to be on the poles of these streetlamps

   may be missing, and some of the numbers attached to the poles may be different than

   those listed on the maps. Identify the poles with a discrepancy or missing number.

   Please be certain to turn in these maps at the November 3^rd RC Meeting. If there are

   streetlamps that exist on the map but not in our neighborhoods the identification of

   this error could save the Community approximately $300 per year per streetlamp.

e) Crime Watch Patrol-Tyler Finn and Andy Denbo, who organized the Seven Oaks CWP

   emphasized the need for more volunteers to ride through the Community. Given the

   recent rash of burglaries here in Seven Oaks during the daytime they expressed the need

   for more daytime volunteers. Jerry Brown, who recently began participating in the CWP

   reinforced how important it is for vehicles displaying the CWP Sheriff’s magnet to be

   continuously riding through the neighborhoods of Seven Oaks and making it extremely

   uncomfortable for would-be criminals to operate within this Community. Bill Parsons

   pointed out how much money the CWP saves the Community by not having to pay for

   Sheriff’s“details.” It was pointed out that a homeowner-based patrol is also more likely 

   to do a better job. Jerry challenged each of the Resident Council Representatives to go

   out on a patrol with Tyler, or Andy and to encourage their neighbors to participate as

   well. Only one to two hours per month can encourage a would-be perpetrator to go to a

   Community that is not as vigilant as we are. Andy pointed out that although we are

   seemingly hearing about more crimes taking place within Seven Oaks the statistics show

   that crimes are in a downturn especially when compared to other adjacent communities.

    

7.         Meeting Adjourned  (8:30PM)

 

 

Please Volunteer For The Seven Oaks Crime Watch Patrol!!! 1 or 2                                         Hours Per Month Can Make A Difference!

 

Next Resident Council Meeting: Tuesday, November 3rd, at 7PM

 

 

CDD “Planning Workshop:” Thursday, October 22^nd, at 6:30PM This is a Public Meeting!

Seven Oaks

Residents Council Meeting Minutes

Of

September 1^st, 2009

 

1. Call to Order (7:00PM)

 

2.  Residents Council Members in Attendance : 2.  Residents Council Members in Attendance: Crosswinds-Joe Stewart, Edenfield-Charlene Manieri, Forest Edge-Melissa Cone, Grassglen-Dave Lockwood, Knollpoint-Holly Hill, Palmetto Bend-Pedro Carrasquillo, Shoregrass-Mike Davis, Silverleaf-Jim Royalty, Springwood-Dave Mohren, The Laurels-Reta Parsons, and Villas at Edenfield-Jerry Brown.    

 

The new Resident Council Representative from Shoregrass, Mike Davis, was introduced and

welcomed.

 

3. Approval of the Minutes of the August 4th, 2009 Residents Council Meeting. A motion to approve the minutes was made by Joe Stewart and seconded by Reta Parsons. The minutes were approved.

 

4. Special Guest Speaker- State Representative Will Weatherford was introduced. Mr.

Weatherford  is our State Representative from District 61.

a) The budget limitations for our State Legislature due to diminishing tax revenues were reiterated.

b) 75% of these revenues are sales tax-driven and Pasco County’s 12% unemployment rate has a lot to do with these revenue shortfalls, along with plummeting real estate values.

c) Mr. Weatherford explained that the State’s two biggest budgetary expenditures are for Healthcare and Education and that there is a “Cap” of 5% as to how much taxes may be raised every year.

d) Pasco County put away $20 million dollars to purchase “right-of way” properties for the widening of S.R. 54 but will actually spend $55 million for the purchase of these properties.

e) Representative Weatherford is hoping that the State will receive a $3 billion dollar grant for a “high-speed rail system” that will connect Tampa to Orlando.

f) As Chairman of the House Education Committee, Representative Weatherford explained that they will be focusing on “Student-Centered Education,” where students will learn at their own pace, as well as “Career-oriented technology education.” For example, an IT Technical Institute is now located within Wiregrass High School.

g) State Representative Weatherford was asked to look into reviewing the process by which the Agency For Healthcare Administration (AHCA) is able to grant “Certificates of Need” (CON) without making the existence of a submitted application for a healthcare facility well publicized to an impacted Community so as to enable a “Public Hearing,” if necessary. Under the existing system, if a community does not read the “Florida Administrative Weekly” residents would not be able to request a “Public Hearing” in a timely manner (currently 14 days from when the application is submitted), as was the case when Ten Broeck had submitted their Certificate of Need application for a Mental Health Facility, within or near Seven Oaks.

g) The Representative was asked to review the current laws that have stipulations that, in essence, “protect” sex offenders, and to work with our State Senator, Victor Crist, who will be introducing legislation in the State Senate making Jessica’s Law more protective of our children rather than protective of these offenders.

 

5.         UNFINISHED BUSINESS:

 

·      Community Rules Committee is still meeting approximately twice per month until all issues and ‘loopholes’ are covered as it pertains to our current policies. These meetings are open to the Community and the input of homeowners is welcomed. The Committee would appreciate the Resident Council Representatives gathering feedback from your neighbors re: “Clubhouse Rules.”

 

·      “Firewise” Committee: Don Ruths, with the Division of Forestry, will be conducting a survey of the CDD properties adjacent to homes within Seven Oaks to identify the homes that are at risk of wildfire damage because of the proximity of wildland vegetation fuels, and inadequate space for firefighters to properly position their equipment and personnel in the event of a wildfire. The Division of Forestry will be present, in khaki uniform, and marked vehicles, on Tuesday, September 8^th, from 9:30AM. Please alert your neighborhoods of this event. A suggestion was made by a resident to alert the Pasco County Sheriff’s office as well. Jerry Brown will undertake the responsibility of alerting the Sheriff’s office.

 

                            

·               Seven Oaks and I-75 Noise Issue-John Borak, the previous Shoregrass Resident Council  Representative felt that many of his neighbors might not be in favor of unsightly highway noise barriers. The same complaint was brought up by Jim Royalty, the Silverleaf Resident Council Representative. Jerry Brown told him that he would forward him the number of the Tampa District FDOT office (FDOT Project Manager Adam Perez 800-226-7220) to investigate the possibility of a noise barrier for Silverleaf. If you have a question or complaint, please contact the Florida Dept. of Transportation’s Tampa Office via MAIL  at:                                                                     FDOT District 7 Director

                  11201 N. Malcolm McKinley Drive

                  Tampa, Florida 33612-6403

 

Due to time constraints no “New Business” was discussed.

 

6.         OPEN FLOOR, RESIDENT QUESTIONS AND COMMENTS-

 

         Bill Parson, the CDD’s Liaison to the Resident Council, gave an update of the issues that

            our CDD Boards are working on. He announced that in addition to the CDD’s regular

            Meeting on September 9^th, the Board will have a “Planning Workshop” on Wednesday,

            September 16^th, to listen to suggestions for large, longterm (1-5 years) capital improvements         to our Community. The Resident Council Representatives were encouraged to make their   neighborhoods aware of this public meeting so that our homeowners can give the Boards             adequate input in this process.

            Bill briefly spoke about the expected timetable for the annexation of CDD II into CDD I. It

            is expected to occur in the middle of January, 2010. The CDD, as well as SOPOA, (as well

            as the Resident Council) will be using one website; my sevenoaks.com. Bill stated that he is

            still exploring the best way for the Resident Council Representatives to acquire the street

            lamp information necessary to accurately audit the leasing charges being billed to the         Community by Withlacoochie Electric. Bill also revealed that the Board is considering a

            conversion of the Clubhouse pools to saltwater from chlorine. Jerry Brown suggested the

            Board seek the professional opinion of a Seven Oaks homeowner who is the GM of a large

            pool distributorship before making their final decision on this matter.

 

7.         Meeting Adjourned  (8:30PM)

 

 

 

 

Next Resident Council Meeting: Tuesday, October 6^th, at 7PM

 

 

CDD “Planning Workshop:” Wednesday, September 16^th

1.  Call to Order (7:00pm)
 
2.  Resident Council Representatives In Attendance

Amberside: Jaclyn Lewis Croswell	Yes	Pinecrest: Pete Szakacs	No
Brookforest: Needs Rep		Shoregrass: John Borak	Yes
Copperleaf: Needs Rep		Silverleaf: Kathy Sasvari for Jim Royalty	Yes
Coventry:  Mike Beland	No	Springwood: Dave Mohren	Yes
Crosswinds: Joe Stewart	Yes	Stillbrook: Jon Valls	No
Edenfield:  Steve Manieri for Charlene Manieri	Yes	Stonecreek: Not Yet Built
Fairgate:  Brian Donley	Yes	The Laurels: Reta Parsons	Yes
Forest Edge: Melissa Cone	Yes	Villas of Deer Run: Ralph Palomba	No
Grassglen:  Dave Lockwood	Yes	Villas at Edenfield: Jerry Brown (Chair)	Yes
Knollpoint: Holly Hill	Yes	Villas at Willow Creek: Pat Lewis	No
Lakeside: Needs Rep		Watermark: Not Yet Built
Palmetto Bend: Pedro Carrasquillo	Yes	Willowstone: Denise Nicholas	Yes

3. Approval of the Minutes of the July 7th, 2009 Residents Council Meeting. A motion to approve the minutes was made by Brian Donley and seconded by Dave Mohren. The minutes were approved.

4.  SOPOA Update: Dick Fink – SOPOA Director of Communications

•    SOPOA has decided to turn off the gate access of those residents who are delinquent in their HOA dues.  It is estimated that there are 70-80 homeowners delinquent. A date has not been set for this to begin.

•    SOPOA has decided to change the policy in regards to swing sets and children play sets.  The new guidelines will allow for more sq ft to be used for the sets. The sets will still have to fit behind the resident’s home and be buffered from sight.

•    SOPOA wants all residents to know that the schedule to mow all Seven Oaks vacant lots and homes in distress is every 6 weeks.  To defray the cost, SOPOA is looking at the lenders holding the note on the distressed properties taking on this expense.  If there is a home in your neighborhood that is not being forced mowed and you think it needs to be, please call or email our community’s “Property Manager,” Susan Thomas with Rampart Properties.

•    SOPOA is also in discussion with the CDD board and several Website developers to combine both websites into one useful, convenient website for all to use.

•    It was also announced that there will be 4 open positions on the SOPOA board in September of this year.  Those interested in running can contact your Resident Council Representative.

5.    UNFINISHED BUSINESS:

•    Mental Health Facility Update:  Pasco County Commissioner Pat Mullieri has tried on multiple occasions to contact representatives of Ten Broeck to coordinate a meeting to discuss their intentions regarding their “Certificate Of Need” (CON) for construction of a Mental Health Facility within the zip codes 33543, and 33544, in the vicinity of Bruce B. Downs (581). Commissioner Mullieri was able to make contact with a representative of Ten Broeck (other than Sherry Magee) and was promised a meeting.  As of this Resident Council Meeting, that meeting has yet to be scheduled. Jerry Brown, and Melissa Cone will keep the Council updated on this issue.

•    Community email lists are still being updated.  Resident Council Chair, Jerry Brown handed out address lists for each sub-division to assist the Resident Council Representatives with this task. Jerry again emphasized that this may be the single most important accomplishment of our Resident Council since it enables immediate alerts to our neighbors about urgent community news (missing pets, missing children, crimes, critical voting on issues).

•    Community Rules Committee is meeting every 2 weeks until all issues and ‘loopholes’ are covered as it pertains to our current policies. A booklet to all homeowners will be issued once completed. These meetings are open to the Community and the input of homeowners is welcomed.

•    “Firewise” Committee: Don Ruths, with the Division of Forestry, is assisting Seven Oaks with becoming a Firewise Community.  Although the Division of Forestry will complete the identification and initial cleanup of conservation areas adjacent to homes that have inadequate “defensible space,” there are concerns that the annual maintenance costs may not coincide with the CDD’s budget constraints A “Firewise” Committee has been formed and will meet with the Division of Forestry on Thursday August 6th to further investigate the feasibility of this program for Seven Oaks.

 Shoregrass and I-75 Noise Issue- The Florida Dept. of Transportation (FDOT)  said that a  study was completed to assess the impact of the noise from I-75 on                   homes bordering the highway….in 2004! Jerry Brown, in a discussion with the             FDOT “Field Supervisor” pointed out that there are now many more homes that           border this highway than existed in 2004 when that study was done. Recent                 studies(April 2009), which were done prior to the road-widening of this highway            are using the 2004 data as opposed to doing a new field study.  At this time the         FDOT  has no plans to buffer I75 to help Seven Oaks residents with the noise from     the highway.  If you have a question or complaint, please contact the Florida Dept.       of Transportation’s Tampa Office via MAIL  at:                                                                      FDOT District 7 Director
        11201 N. Malcolm McKinley Drive
        Tampa, Florida 33612-6403

Community Awareness Meeting-
 A Community awareness meeting took place on July 21st with residents of Seven     Oaks and detectives from the Pasco County Sherriff’s department.  The purpose of     the meeting was to get clarification of the state rules pertaining to Sexual             Offenders/Predators.  We were informed that as long as “Sexual Offenders” are not labeled “Predators,” or have court-imposed sanctions, they may visit a school where their child is enrolled, as well as community parks and pools where children are playing.  We also found out that Pasco County has the 2nd highest rate of sex offenders per capita in the state. (Orange County – Orlando being #1).

6.    NEW BUSINESS:

•    Several residents voiced their concerns over the forced mow schedule and the lack of care being shown in some communities on the North end of Seven Oaks, Crosswinds in particular.  Resident Council member Joe Stewart of Crosswinds informed the Council of clogged drains, overgrown lots and some other sobering concerns. There are 55 lots in Crosswinds and only 12 Residents. There are 38 vacant lots and 5 empty spec homes.  CDD board member Bill Parsons committed to looking at these concerns in regards to the CDD-owned properties in Crosswinds. Earlier in this Meeting Pedro similarly alerted Dick Fink, of the SOPOA Board, about the overgrowth on some of the homes in foreclosure within the Palmetto Bend neighborhood. Dick suggested filing a “Covenant Violation” document for these properties with Susan Thomas of Rampart.

•    CDD Board is starting to investigate the cost of leasing the Community’s street lights from Withalacochee Power and Electric.  The CDD Board has asked the Resident Council to help with taking an inventory of all of the street lamps within each individual neighborhood and placing the location on a neighborhood map to be provided by Bill Parsons of the CDD Board. This survey will help determine if what we are being charged by WREC for leasing these street lamps is accurate.


7.    OPEN FLOOR, RESIDENT QUESTIONS AND COMMENTS-


IMPORTANT NOTICE: SPECIAL GUEST AT OUR NEXT RESIDENT COUNCIL MEETING (September 1st, 2009):     
                STATE
                    REPRESENTATIVE
                        WILL
                            WEATHERFORD!!!

Please alert your neighbors that they will have an opportunity to interact with their State Rep!

 
   






 

1.  Call to Order (7:04pm)

2.  Residents Council Members in Attendance

Amberside: Jaclyn Lewis	Yes	Pinecrest: Pete Szakacs	No
Brookforest: Needs Rep		Shoregrass: John Borak	Yes
Copperleaf: Needs Rep		Silverleaf: Jim Royalty	No
Coventry: Mike Beland	Yes	Springwood: Dave Mohren	Yes
Crosswinds: Joe Stewart	No	Stillbrook: Jon Valls	Yes
Edenfield: Charlene Manieri	Yes	Stonecreek: Not Yet Built
Fairgate: Brian Donley	No	The Laurels: Reta Parsons	Yes
Forest Edge: Melissa Cone	Yes	Villas of Deer Run: Ralph Palomba	No
Grassglen: Dave Lockwood	Yes	Villas at Edenfield: Jerry Brown (Chair)	Yes
Knollpoint: Holly Hill	Yes	Villas at Willow Creek: Pat Lewis	Yes
Lakeside: Needs Rep		Watermark: Not Yet Built
Palmetto Bend: Pedro Carrasquillo	No	Willowstone: Denise Nicholas	No

3. Approval of the Minutes of the June 2nd, 2009 Residents Council Meeting. A motion to approve the minutes was made by Jaclyn Lewis and seconded by Dave Mohren.

4. SOPOA Update was given by Dick Fink who reported that:
SOPOA was actively pursuing the collection of past-due homeowner’s assessments as well     as the recovery of expenses for mowing vacant Smith Family Homes lots.
SOPOA will be giving homeowners who still owe small amounts (for items such as lien     letters) one final opportunity to settle their accounts before incurring additional fines and     being turned over to the attorney for collection. Previously, this tactic resulted in the     collection of about 35% of these delinquent amounts. SOPOA is also considering shutting     off gate access to the homeowners who are in arrears that live within gated     neighborhoods.
SOPOA is currently reviewing the AMR (Architectural Modification Review) process so     they can make it less cumbersome. They are discussing changing the maximum length     criteria for backyard “Play Sets” to a maximum square footage requirement.    
SOPOA is in discussion with the CDD Boards and several Website Developers to combine     both websites into one useful central community website.
There will be 4 open positions on the SOPOA Board in September. Those interested in     serving on the Board please contact your neighborhood Resident Council Representative. 

5. UNFINISHED BUSINESS:

Mental Health Facility Update: After repeated failed attempts by Pasco County Commissioner     Pat Mullieri to contact Sherry Magee of Ten Broeck she was finally able to reach another     executive within the company and was promised a meeting in the near future. Their     Certificate of Need (CON) is valid for eighteen months from the time it was issued. The     date of issuance is uncertain.

Resident Council Representatives Neighborhood Email Contact List Updates: The     Representatives in attendance each received a table with a list of homeowners, and their     addresses for their respective neighborhoods with a column for gathering the     homeowner’s email address. The purpose is to facilitate the Representatives going door-    to-door to obtain an updated email contact list from the homeowner’s within their     neighborhood so such things as notification of crime alerts, missing children, missing     animals, and other issues of Community interest (Meetings, Agendas, Minutes) can be     effectively disseminated throughout Seven Oaks. This is one of the most important     functions of the Resident Council and all of the Representatives were strongly encouraged     to complete this task. Jerry Brown and Pedro Carrasquillo have offered assistance to any     of the Representatives that request it.

Community Events: 7/31/09-Texas Hold-em event at the Clubhouse, hosted by Roger Esker. The     Resident Council Representatives were asked to think about the possibility of other     Community events, such as, Movie Night, Bingo Night, and a Community Pond Clean-up     in conjunction with “Earth Day” next April. Charlene Manieri stated that there is some     money that is allocated in the CDD Budget each year to assist with these events.

6. NEW BUSINESS:

Proposed Interim Temporary Library Land Use Status: Interim use of the proposed Seven Oaks property designated for the future Library has been put on “Hold” after the Elementary School’s Principal said that she was not in favor of the proposed ideas for interim usage.

CDD Assessments: To raise or not to raise: Faced with a depleted “Reserve Fund” our CDD     Boards are in a quandary about whether to impose an increased annual assessment on     Seven Oaks homeowners. This “Reserve” is necessary for such things as road repair,     Clubhouse building repair, and other large capital expenditures. The possible assessment     increase cannot occur in the Budget already approved for this year (2.5% increase) but     could occur in the following years. It is estimated that the increase being considered for     the following year could be $11 for the smaller lots, and up to $30 for the larger home     sites. There is a concern that by remaining under-funded we may find it necessary in     future years to float another bond. The discussion revealed that this might be an     expensive, and complex alternative considering the legal and professional expenses     involved in such an undertaking.  Many of the homeowners in the audience felt that if     these minor increases in our CDD assessments kept our Community attractive and stable     then it would be worth the investment if the funds were put to worthwhile use. THERE IS     A CDD MEETING ON WEDNESDAY, JULY 15TH AT 630PM.  PLEASE ATTEND TO     MAKE YOUR OPINIONS KNOWN!

Removal of flowers on roadway medians: Opinions were expressed about the CDD’s cost-    cutting measure ($30,000/year) that involves removing the flowers (annuals) from the     ends of our roadway medians and replacing them with the plants that are currently     adjacent to them (non-flowering). It was pointed out that there still will be some flowering     shrubs in the middle of these roadway islands. Homeowners in the audience expressed the     desire to keep the color on the tips of these islands by involving volunteers in the     placement and maintenance of the annuals.

CDD/SOPOA consider formation of “official” Seven Oaks website- Committee is investigating     the feasibility with different web vendors and a decision is to be forthcoming.

Community Rules Committee Meeting- This is a public meeting scheduled for Tuesday, July     14th, at 2:30PM in the Clubhouse.

“Firewise Program” and the Seven Oaks Community-Don Ruths, of the Florida Division of     Forestry (the “Special Guest” at our June Meeting), will be conducting a survey of our     entire Community with a Committee to identify specific areas that are at-risk for wildfires,     and where homes do not have sufficient “defensible space” if fire fighting becomes     necessary. An at-risk area will be selected within Seven Oaks to use as an example of what     can be done for the safety of our Community. The Florida Division of Forestry will do the     initial “bush-wacking,” where necessary but the annual maintenance will need to be     accomplished with CDD funds. The costs for doing this will have to be reviewed by the     CDD Board before this can be considered for approval.

Shoregrass and I-75 Noise-John Borak, the Shoregrass Resident Council Representative, drew     attention to the complaints of the homeowners about noise emanating from I-75. Jerry     Brown has contacted the Florida DOT re: this issue, and a “Project Manager” for this     section of the highway was supposed to have called back regarding conducting a noise     survey to determine if a highway noise barrier is necessary. Jerry, or John will continue     attempts at correspondence with the DOT over this issue.

Sexual Offender Concerns: Mike Beland, Coventry’s Resident Council Representative, brought     attention to the concerns about the existence of a known sexual offender residing within     the Community. Our Knollpoint Representative, Holly Hill, will be contacting, Detective     Wayne Smith, of the FDLE, who is involved with this case, to arrange for a Community     information meeting. She will make everybody aware of when and where this meeting will     occur. The following link may be accessed for more information:     http://www.hcso.tampa.fl.us/pub/default.asp?/Online/qdisp/bn=09001470

7. RESIDENT QUESTIONS AND COMMENTS: Many residents in attendance expressed their     concerns over the questions regarding the “sexual offender” residing within Seven Oaks.

8. ADJOURN: (8:55PM)


Next Resident Council Meeting: Tuesday, August 4th, at 7PM

On Tuesday, September 1st our State Representative Will Weatherford!!
   




 

Seven Oaks

Residents Council Meeting Minutes

Of

June 2, 2009

 

 

1.  Call to Order (7:08pm)

 

2.  Residents Council Members in Attendance:

Amberside-Jaclyn Lewis, Coventry-Mike Beland, Crosswinds-Joe Stewart, Edenfield-Steve Manieri for Charlene Manieri, Fairgate-Brian Donley, Forest Edge-Melissa Cone, Knollpoint-Joshua Green for Holly Hill, Silverleaf-Jim Royalty, Springwood, Dave Mohren, Stillbrook-Jon Valls, The Laurels-Reta Parsons, Villas at Edenfield-Jerry Brown.

 

3. Approval of the Minutes of the May 5, 2009 Residents Council Meeting. A motion to approve the minutes was made by Melissa Cone  and seconded by Dave Mohren.

 

4.  GUEST SPEAKER(S): Don Ruths, Wildfire Mitigation Specialist with the Florida Division of Forestry, and Tim Reardon with the Pasco County Fire and Rescue.

 

·      Mr. Ruths did an evaluation of several sub-divisions within Seven Oaks and deemed Seven Oaks to be at “Moderate Risk”  for wildfires.  He described Seven Oaks as being in an area called a “Wildland Urban Interface.”  Simply put, we have homes that are in extremely close proximity to “ wildlands” (conservation areas).  There is a moderate risk due to the fact that our wildlands, or conservation areas, are filled with “fuels” in the form of cypress hammocks, hardwoods, dead palmettos, peat, and dry pine.  When Seven Oaks was developed, adequate entries into the conservation areas were not properly created and the wildland areas behind many homes were too close to provide an adequate defensible space for fire-fighters .  Had the developer created 30 foot setbacks from our property lines to these wildlands (conservation areas), a defensible space would have been created, therefore making it safer for our homes in the event of a wildfire. This limited access for fire-fighting vehicles and the close proximity of home to the wildlands created a challenge during the recent “Brush Fire” that took place earlier this year.

 

·      Mr Ruths recommendation:   First he recommended that we become a “Fire Wise Community.”  Being a Fire Wise Community requires community wide involvement and cooperation between our homeowners, the CDD Boards, and the SOPOA Board. A committee would be formed to work with local professionals from the Florida Division of Forestry, Pasco County Fire and Rescue, Southwest Water Management (SWFTMD), etc…  We would first receive an evaluation of our community, which we just had.  We would then present the recommendations of these professionals to our Boards for consideration (i.e., costs to the Community, and modifications in Declaration of Covenants, Conditions, and Restrictions).  We would then be recognized as a “National Fire Wise Community.” There would also be a $2 per house/per year fee to establish this designation.  Unfortunately, there is no insurance benefit after becoming a Fire Wise Community but we will have complied with the necessary recommendations to help prevent future catastrophes and to make it easier for fire-fighting personnel to control wildfires. 

 

·      Second, he recommended that we clean out the underbrush and anything less than 6” in diameter out of the “wildland” areas behind our homes only after receiving appropriate Swiftmud approval.  This would help eliminate the fuel that would allow a fire to grow. It was also suggested to clean debris from gutters since this could catch on fire from embers traveling through the air from the fire source.

 

·      The division of Forestry has a great working relationship with the Southwest Water Management District (SWFTMD) and recommended that we get approval from them before any mowing or tree-trimming takes place within our conservation areas.

 

·      Mr. Ruths also suggested hiring a company to come in and clean out the Wild Land areas.  He also added that the Division of Forestry could come in and give an exhibition with machinery and clean out an area of 15 or so homes so that the home owners of Seven Oaks could see what the area would look like after the recommended “clean-out” takes place.

 

·      The Resident Council, the CDD Board, and the SOPOA Board will meet to discuss the interest in undertaking the recommendations made by the Florida Division of Forestry.

 

·      Tim Reardon provided some interesting statistics about the recent “Brush Fire:”  18 Fire Trucks were used

25 Firefighters

            385,000 gallons of water were used to fight the fire                                                             Fire smoldered for 10 days                                                                                                     Cause of Fire: Campfire incompletely extinguished in dry conditions.

            Mr. Reardon pointed out some of the difficulties experienced which included: Confusion          about the ability of Fire trucks to enter gated neighborhoods (Villas at Edenfield),          Shifting winds which             created time lags because of the need to repeatedly reposition hoses,           Proximity of pine tress to homes (these are an excellent fuel source, Proximity of conservation areas to homes (inadequate defensible area), Gates are supposed to be “siren          activated” (this will be investigated by the SOPOA Property Manager).

 

            No new business or old business was discussed at this Meeting due to the length of the    presentations.

 

           

            Meeting adjourned at 8:22PM.

 

 

            Next Resident Council Meeting: July 7^th, 2009