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April 2009 Newsletter
Hi Everyone:
First, the Board would like to thank all the folks that attended the general meeting. We had 56% of the proxy goal. Good job! We would also like to thank all those that ran for election to the board.
We wanted to give you updates on what's going on in our community and address the issues that were raised at the meeting.
The revised covenants need a little "tweaking", however, they should be sent to the attorneys within the next few weeks for their input and approval. We want to emphasize, that in order for the new covenants to be approved, we MUST have a 2/3rd majority "yes" vote. If not, we will have to leave them as is, which of course leaves the original developers language in tact. We don't think that anyone would want that, so the bottom line is this... VOTE!!!
During the meeting the subject was raised to have some type of pool pass available to all homeowners. This is a great idea due to the numerous complaints received about people that don't live here using our pool. We are in the process of obtaining the lowest cost for passes. We are hoping that it will cost you less than $5 per pass. Don't forget, you have every right to ask non pass holders to leave. If they refuse, the police can be called, as this is trespassing.
It was announced that we are now mandated a fireworks free community. This was approved by the Horry County Safety Commission. Quite simply it means that violators can and will be prosecuted. This step was absolutely necessary for everybody's safety. In addition, it is against the covenants, which we all signed and agreed to adhere to. Signs will be placed throughout our development notifying everyone of this law.
A large trash receptacle will be placed by the pool area to help in keeping the area clean.
We are working with the County, to determine the cost of installing electric and water meters on the traffic islands on Covington Drive. This is a requirement prior to us planting any trees or bushes in that area. So far the meters could cost us $3,400 plus labor to install. We are also obtaining bids for the landscaping. However, it seems as if we may not have the funds to totally complete the project at this time. We will do all we can to at least get a portion of it done.
We had the money in reserve to fund a portion of this project however; the following unforeseen events caused us to spend money that we did not plan on:
- Due to the Federal Baker law, we had to invest approximately $1,100 to install an automatic drain shut off in the pool. The law was passed because the granddaughter of Senator Baker drowned due to the drain holding her under the water. This mandatory law states that all public pools MUST have the shut off drain installed, or it will not be allowed to open. If a pool is opened without the shut-off drain, the authorities will close it and there is a non-negotiable $12,000 fine. So you can see we had no choice.
- Due to the vandalism at our front entrance, we have to pay $26 per letter plus labor, to replace the stolen ones. Also, they decided to knock over our sign, which of course cost us labor to re-install. In addition, one of the lights by the pool was destroyed. We had to replace and pay for labor. A police report was filed, but it seems unlikely that they'll be able to arrest these "fine young citizens". If this type of vandalism occurs again, we will probably not replace the letters, but paint "Covington Lake" on the entrance walls.
- To possibly prevent further vandalism by the pool, we are getting estimates on additional cameras that will cover the entire area, including the parking lot. We are also looking into the possibility of installing some type of barriers around the back of the pool to prevent anyone from driving their dirt bikes and ATV's through our property. Speaking of vandalism and security, I have to confess that I goofed. I had the list of the folks that volunteered to serve as "Block Captains" for your neighborhood watch program. However, I can't find it. Please email at me at retirebd@sccoast.net if you volunteered. I apologize for any inconvenience.
- We are also receiving estimates to plant "color" at the front entrance.
Because some neighbors have decided that vacant lots are garbage dumps, we will be sending out letters outlining the information required to adhere to the covenants. It's a shame that this has escalated to this degree, but due to the grass clippings, Christmas trees, dead palm trees, and other assorted debris, the fire marshal may become involved. This debris presents a real fire danger, plus a home for feral cats and other destructive critters.
Even though burning leaves is not against Horry County law, there is a nuisance statue in our covenants. Recently, a resident was burning debris, leaves, etc. and the smoke and odor permeated several neighboring homes. The fire marshal was called and the resident extinguished the fire. Please be considerate of your neighbors and aware of the danger that a fire could get out of control, especially with the dry season approaching.
Now on to some happier subjects. The board has received numerous calls and emails asking when are we going to have some social events. They reminded us of the good times we've had at community bbq's, holiday parties (especially karaoke) and our annual yard sale. In order to have these events, we need to form a social committee of 5 caring folks. This shouldn't take a great deal of your time, but everyone will certainly appreciate your efforts. Please email me, and we'll set up a meeting time. Thank you!!
At the present time, the Horry County is leaning toward a speed bump study. As mentioned several times, we can prevent this if we pay attention to the speed limits the County has mandated.
Within the next few weeks we will be meeting with our web master to update our web site. We're sure you will be happy with the new look and features that will make it more user friendly.
Finally, on behalf of the Board, I want to thank all those who have expressed support and complimented us on the job we're doing to make Covington Lake a community everyone can be proud of. We want to continue to do the best job possible, but we need your input and suggestions. Please don't hesitate to contact us!
Sincerely,
Bill DeWolfe, Brenden Curren, Steve Cutshaw, Skip MacKenna, Erika Small
PS: Recently someone asked what the Board does with our money. As mentioned in the past, everyone is welcome to examine the "books." The only requirement is you must make an appointment with Premier Management. They will be more then happy to show you the financials.