2025 HHCO Annual Meeting

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Minutes of the Huntington Highlands Annual Meeting: February 10, 2025

Zoom meeting called to order at 7:35pm by Co-President, David Blatner.

HHCO Board in Attendance:

  • David Blatner – Co-President
  • Carol Straughan – Co President
  • Tammy Lally – Treasurer
  • Trisha Albrecht – Secretary

Homeowners in Attendance:

  • Melissa and Bill Williams
  • Chris and Paul Vanderwel
  • Liz Storey
  • Eric and Diane Tomita
  • John and Robin Godfrey 
  • Javier Sanchez
  • Elizabeth Thampi

David Blatner welcomed all neighbors to the official 2025 Huntington Highland Annual Meeting

All attendee’s Introduced themselves.

HHCO Budget-Treasure Report:

  • Tammy Lally provided and reported on the 2024 financial summary and the 2025 projected budget.
  • Five homeowners have not paid their 2024 dues, two of which owe for 2023 and 2024. Tammy will send out reminders until all dues are collected.
  • The projected budget for 2025 is very similar to the previous year. 

Huntington Highlands homeowners can obtain a copy of the financial summary by sending an email to board@huntingtonhighlands.org

  • There was discussion of researching and using HOA software services for the accounting and administration duties and better information sharing associated with our community organization.The Board will share the results of this research and a cost/benefit analysis later in the year.
  • The Board wants to begin building up the reserves and using $20,000.00 as a target.
    • Mailbox sheds will need maintenance in the future.
      • If something were to damage the entryway, we would need to repair it. 
      • Our expenses will continue to increase. 
      • Our overall spending is just slightly under the dues we collect.
  • Our community has not increased dues for nearly 20 years. A suggestion was made to increase dues from $100.00 to $150.00 annually. 
  • Before increasing the dues the Board will do further analysis, inform the community and approval will be obtained according to the bylaws.

Social Activities Report:

  • Melissa Williams and Chris Vanderwel reported on a very successful May event at Cottage Lake Park. 32 adults and a handful of kids participated. Games were played, treat bags were provided along with hot dogs, chips and drinks. A mustard and catsup dispensing machine the Storey’s built was a big hit. 
  • Another family event at Cottage Lake Park will be planned later in the year.
  • An adult only event has been scheduled in April which will include wine tasting and parings. 
  • Details will come through Mailchimp and on our website.

Communications:

  • Some homeowners indicated Mailchimp goes to their junk mail and it was suggested to add mc@huntingtonhighlands.org to your contacts to land in your primary email.
  • Other suggestions for communications were to put signs up on the mailbox sheds and/or include a QR code, double email homeowners and put the annual meeting on the website. 

Front Entrance Report:

  • Trisha Albrecht reported on the spring and fall planting at our front entrance.
  • Greg Olsby volunteered with the spring planting.
  • Melissa Williams and Steve and Nicole Bruce volunteered for the fall planting.
  • This spring will require laying a yard of mulch in the beds for nutritional value and Trisha asked if a few homeowners would help.
  • We also discussed forming a planting committee and an email will go out this spring asking for volunteers.
  • No suggestions were made for changes or improvements. 

Sub-Contractor’s List:

  • David Blatner reminded homeowners to access and submit recommendations for contractors for home improvements on our website. 
  • Please share the wealth of knowledge by going to huntingtonhighlands.org, select “Recommended Services” and follow the instructions to complete and submit the form.

Mailbox Sheds Maintenance:

  • Carol Straughan and Trisha Albrecht inspected the mailbox sheds and decided no maintenance was needed at this time. We will continue to monitor and will obtain an estimate for painting when needed.
  • It was suggested that homeowners tidy up their mailbox sheds.
  • David Straughan puts moss killer on top of their mailbox shed to keep the moss down and he also pulls out staples.
  • The Heimfelds had their mailbox broken into in the past year. 

Web Page Update:

  • David Blatner will post upcoming community events on our website “Events” page.

Election of Officers:

  • 2026 is the next election year. Please let the board know if you’re interested in running for a position!

Other Business

  • The Board sent out a survey but few homeowners have responded. David Blatner will send out another email in hopes of receiving more comments. He wanted to remind everyone it is anonymous, so if you volunteer for an activity, please include your name and email address. He will keep it open until the end of the month.
  • A homeowner found a bracelet and with the posting of Mailchimp, it was returned to the owner through Liz Storey.

David Blatner made a motion to close the meeting which was seconded. 

Meeting adjourned at 8:23pm.

2024 HHCO Annual Meeting

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Minutes of the Annual Meeting: February 27, 2024

Zoom meeting called to order at 7:40pm by Co-President, David Blatner

HHCO Board In Attendance:

  • David Blatner – Co-President
  • Carol Straughan – Co-President
  • Tammy Lally – Treasurer
  • Trisha Albrecht – Secretary

Homeowners in Attendance:

  • David Straughan
  • Melissa Williams – Social Committee
  • Bill Williams
  • Chris Vanderwel – Social Committee
  • Paul Vanderwel
  • Liz Storey
  • Andrew Blaser

David Blatner welcomed all neighbors to the meeting and introductions were made.

Low attendance was noticed this year.

  • Suggestions for a larger turn out were; start the meeting earlier than 7:30pm, send more reminder emails, put signs on the mailboxes and put the Zoom link on the HHCO website the day of, so people can find it easily.
  • There was concern the group email link was not working correctly.
  • David Blatner will look into the system to see if it is failing. 
  • Liz Storey appreciates a Zoom meeting which makes it easier to attend with children.

HHCO Budget/Treasurers Report:

  • Tammy Lally provided and reported on the 2023 financials and 2024 projected budget.
  • Andrew Blaser inquired about the insurance category. It is a general liability policy for directors and officers, and if neighborhood issues arise.
  • Annual dues are trailing in and expect to collect the same as last year.
  • There was an increase in landscaping in the monthly budget due to overdue maintenance and flower expenses for the front entrance.
  • After a complete overview the proposed budget was approved for 2024.
  • Huntington Highlands homeowners can obtain a copy of the financials, by sending an email to board@huntingtonhighlands.org

Social Activities:

  • Melissa Williams and Chris Vanderwel reported on the May Social Event held at the Cottage Lake Park. The location worked well for this event. Hotdogs, chips and soda’s were provided and 30 neighbors attended. 
  • They will organize another event this spring and possibly this fall. 
  • Welcome Baskets were delivered to the Blaser Family and to Diane and Eric Tomita.

Entrance:

  • Trisha Albrecht recapped the work done on the front entrance and thanked the Storey family and the Olsby’s for their help.  A few boxwoods were removed, mulch was laid in the garden area, flowers and bulbs were planted.  There was positive feedback from the homeowners and the flower planting will continue.
  • The board is looking into installing a water meter on both sides of the front entrance to measure the water usage for this area to reimburse the Peacocks and Sodorffs for water.
  • Paul Vanderwel was thanked for his work on maintaining the lights.
  • Paul Vanderwel asked if we could cut the stray birch limbs off the trees. Trisha Albrecht will contact Apol’s for that service.

Sub-Contrator’s List:

  • David Blatner reminded members of the recommended sub-contractor’s list on the HHCO website.  If homeowners want to recommend a sub-contractor, go to our website at www.huntingtonhighlands.org, select Recommend Services and follow the instructions to complete and submit the form.
  • Edits for a service already listed on the website can be made by resubmitting the form with correct information or by sending an email to info@huntingtonhighlands.org.

Mailbox Maintenance:

  • Carol Straughan reported on the mailboxes.  They seem to be looking good and if there are problems contact the board.

Webpage Update:

  • David Blatner reported there are no current updates, and reminded everyone the website contains important neighborhood information, CC&R’s, recommend services and map.  If you want to email your neighbor click on the Map tab, then the lot and an email address will appear.
  • Liz Storey recommended setting up a newsletter to send notices of social events, annual meetings, etc., through a service know as Mail Chimp.  Homeowners have the ability to unsubscribe if they do not wish to receive the community emails notices.
  • David Blatner and Liz Storey will work on this Mail Chimp newsletter idea.

Election of Officers:

  • Every two years the Huntington Highlands Community Organization elect new officers.
  • The current board agreed to stay on, serving for another two years if there were no new nominations. No further nominations were made by the members.
  • David Straughan made a motion for the current board to continue their positions.
  • By a unanimous vote, the 2024 board members are as follows:
    • David Blatner – Co-President
    • Carol Straughan – Co-President
    • Tammy Lally – Treasurer
    • Trisha Albrecht – Secretary
  • Melissa Williams and Chris Vanderwel agreed to continue to serve on the Social Committee.

Other Business:

  • A neighbor reported three coyotes attacked their small dog. Unfortunately the dog did not make it.
  • A suggestion was made to alert homeowners and provide a contact number for the Fish and Wildlife Department.
  • There were no other neighborhood issues brought up at this time.

Meeting adjourned 8:33pm

Entrance Landscaping Work, May 2023

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The Huntington Highlands entrance sign
A note from Trisha Albrecht:

We planted today and I wanted to forward this picture. The Storey’s and Olsby’s showed up to help. My husband Dan pulled the boxwoods out with his truck, which was super easy.

We planted three white Encore azalea’s under the entrance sign. They only grow 3’x3’ and should bloom twice a year. Craig has been very helpful with the sprinklers, and replaced a few broken heads.

We had geraniums left over so we planted them across the street, and Susan will be watering them.

I forgot how beautiful our sign was!

2023 HHCO Annual Meeting

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Minutes of the Annual Meeting: March 7, 2023

Meeting was called to order at 7:15pm by Co-President, David Blatner.

HHCO Board in Attendance:

  • David Blatner – Co-president
  • Carol Straughan – Co-president
  • Tammy Lally – Treasurer
  • Trisha Albrecht – Secretary

Homeowners In Attendance :

  • Pete Fortman
  • David Straughan
  • Gene De Roule
  • Melissa Williams – Social Committee
  • Chris Vanderwel – Social Committee
  • Paul Vanderwel
  • Liz Storey
  • Carson Solem
  • Jamie Jamerson
  • Karen Mosy
  • Denise Kesterson
  • Carol Olsby    

David Blatner welcomed all neighbors to the meeting and introductions were made.

Budget / Treasurer Report

  • Tammy Lally provided and reported on the 2022 financials and projected budget for 2023.  
  • As of the end of 2021 all homeowners dues were current.
  • Actual dues collected in 2022 were $6,600.00.
  • Three homeowners have not yet paid their 2022 dues. A reminder will be mailed to those homeowners.  
  • 2022 expenses were $5710.53. That includes Entrance Landscaping, Welcome Baskets, Insurance Policy, Internet Website Domain, P.O. Box Renewal. Postage, WA Secretary of State Annual Filing/Renewal and Social Events.
  • 2023 homeowners dues are still being collected.
  • 2023 budget was drafted and Tammy asked for input for anticipated expenses for Welcome Baskets, Insurance Policy, Social Activities.
  • Melissa Williams and Chris Vanderwel felt the Welcome Basket budget of $150.00 was sufficient.
  • David Blatner has requested confirmation on the insurance policy expense.               
  • $500.00 for Social Activities was discussed. 
  • The attending group wanted three social activities throughout the year and felt $500.00 for each social activity was sufficient.  
  • David Straughan motioned to approve a budget of $1,500.00 for three activities throughout 2023. Carson Solem seconded.
  • A vote was called and approved by the attending members.

Social Activities Report / Welcome Baskets

  • Melissa Williams and Chris Vanderwel reported on the community’s spring social function held at Melissa’s home last spring. Tents were set up, food and beverages were provided, gift bags and door prizes were given away. Spring seemed to be a good month for this function with 40 neighbors in attendance.
  • Two Welcome Baskets were given to new neighbors and two more will be delivered soon. 

Follow Up on Entrance / Landscaping

  • Paul Vanderwel asked if the landscaping expense was too high and if we should obtain another bid from a different company. 
  • After a discussion, it was decided our current landscaping company is reliable, doing a good job and felt $70.00 per week was well worth it.
  • Trisha Albrecht brought up the front entrance landscape and suggested we remove the overgrown boxwood directly in front of the Huntington Highlands sign, to make it easier to read.  
  • Carol Olsbey suggested we put in red geraniums that will bloom all summer and suggested additional soil and watering may be needed. 
  • Trisha and Carol O. will put together a plan to remove the boxwood, plant flowers and submit to the board for budget approval.
  • Trisha obtained a bid to install two black rail panels on the border of Huntington Highlands and Sirena Estates. The company was unable to match the existing fencing and custom panels would be required to match the existing fence at a cost of approximately $10,000.00. A motion was moved to kill this project and a vote of hands by the attending community members passed the motion.
  • Spring is the time to remind everyone to review the landscaping guidelines and to keep the community clean and well kept.  
  • An email reminder will be sent to all neighbors in our community with landscaping guidelines. In addition, a notice will be stapled on the mailbox huts.
  • The board will send a friendly follow up letter to neighbors that do not comply with the community guidelines.

Webpage Update: 

  • David Blatner reported the Webpage is current. Recommended services, important documents, CC&R’s and a neighborhood map are all on our website. He reminded everyone to review the website and that emails can be sent directly to neighbors by going to the map and clicking on the house address.
  • Gene De Roule offered his services as a coder.

Mailboxes:

  • Carol assessed the mailboxes. Some are more ragged than others, but still good.  
  • Dave Straughan will put moss control on all mailbox hut roofs.
  • If maintenance is required, please let the board know. Pete Fortman fixed their mailbox hut on his own – thank you Pete! No need to repaint at this time. 
  • Staples used to affix notifications on the mailbox huts should be pulled out from time to time by the homeowners.

Other Business / Neighborhood Concerns:

  • Cul-de-Sacs
    • Melissa Williams brought up the maintenance of the circles throughout the neighborhood cul-de-sacs. Most are overgrown with weeds and unkept. 
    • The board reminded everyone that it is the responsibility of the landowners to maintain their circles. The bylaws specify only one cul-de-sac on NE 194th Street must be maintained by surrounding landowners.
    • Carol remembers an addendum to include all circles and will search for that addendum.
    • Liz Story suggested sending a letter to the homeowners in the cul-de-sacs, letting them know of their responsibility to maintain their circles, as they may not know it is their responsibility. In the letter it was suggested to include the landscaping guidelines and a drought tolerant plant selection.
    • David Blatner asked if there should be a budget for this?
    • Melissa Williams was always told there was no budget to maintain the circles.
    • The board will get a plan in place to notify the homeowners in the cul-de-sacs.
  • Property Lines
    • Denise Kesterson asked about finding her property line and landscaping up to the line.
    • Trisha mentioned there are white stakes in the ground on every corner of the property, but may be hard to find and that neighbors leave a natural green space between homes.
    • Liz suggested going to the King County Parcel Viewer website to get an idea of the property outline. 
    • David B. hired a surveyor to identify their property lines.

Note: Election of officers occurs in 2024. Elections will be next year, please jump in and take on a role.

Dave Straughan moved to adjourn the meeting, Pete Fortman, Seconded. Meeting was adjourned at 8:26pm.

*If homeowners would like more information on the finances and the budget, please contact the board.

2022 HHCO Annual Meeting

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Huntington Highlands Community Organization
Annual Meeting: April 7, 2022
Via Zoom

David B. called the meeting to order at 7:36 pm

HHCO Board in Attendance: 

  • Carol Straughan – Sr. Co-President
  • David Blatner – Co President
  • Susan Sodorff – Treasurer
  • Lynn Kepl – Secretary
  • Trisha Albrecht – Social 

Homeowners in Attendance: 

  • Bill Williams
  • Melissa Williams
  • Pam Logsdon
  • John Logsdon
  • Liz Storey
  • Reiley Yang
  • Chris Vanderwel
  • Peter Fortman
  • Carson Solem
  • David Straughan
  • Jan Clark
  • Rowan Clark
  • Tammy Lally

Budget/Treasurer’s Report:

Susan provided a Budget Expense and Operation Budget summary:

  • Budget forwarded from 2021 – $11,000
  • 2022 Dues paid – $7,000 bringing total operating budget to $18,000
  • Outstanding dues are $700, once paid total operating budget will be $18,700
  • Entrance landscape/mowing $3300 (annual) 
  • Complete the fencing at front entrance will be about $2500 (one-time expense)
  • Social events – $2200 (annual)
  • Admin fees (postage etc) – $200 (annual)
  • Lawyer budget retainer if ever needed – $700 (annual)
  • Entrance Insurance liability policy – $1200 (annual)
  • Reserve fund is $600 (annual)
  • This brings current 2022 Budget expenses to $10,600 with remaining working balance of $7400.

Social Activities Report:

  • Trisha Albrecht and Pam Logsdon have been delivering Welcome Baskets containing local Woodinville information, CC&Rs, and Website etc). Baskets were delivered to a new single homeowner on 194th and new couple with three kids in elementary on 196th.
  • Other social activities have been suspended due to COVID. 
  • Carol asked about re-initiating social events. Pam suggested early spring wine/ice cream social or something simple to get kids and community together outside in early spring.  
  • Chris Vanderwel and Melissa Williams have volunteered to take over the social volunteer position from Trisha and Pam. Chris and Melissa will craft email for Carol to send out with selected date and venue for a Spring Social. 

Entrance Discussion:

  • Entrance needs to be completed. The manufacturer doesn’t seem to distribute in Washington anymore.  The installer doesn’t seem to be in business anymore, he retired. This is challenging as we only need two 8 ft sections however most installers don’t want that small of a job. Need to find a similar product and an installer. 
  • If anyone has ideas for fencing and/landscape services who would do this work, please send to the Board. Lynn also offered to try a contact in hopes to help. 
  • Susan raised that some lights are burnt out at the entrance. Also, to investigate sensor to see if the sensor is working properly. Chris noted Paul will look when he is back in town. 

Web Page Update:

David gave a quick update on the web site:

  • Liz Storey helped last year with getting the contractor list and form ready for submission. 
  • All minutes, important documents and contractors list is on this site
  • David called to all Homeowners to please fill in the form on the site to recommend their favorite contractors. David noted to scroll down to fill in the form. Note: you need to submit one contractor at a time. 
  • David Blatner will send an email to homeowners letting them know to submit their favorite contractors. 
  • Pam suggested for Carol to also send reminder of the web page in Carol’s communications. Lynn suggested any communications to HHCO homeowners should have the website Huntingtonhighlands.org/members as a part of their signature. 

Mailbox Maintenance:

  • Carol is looking into mailbox cleaning and repairs as some of the wood is rotting and/or paint has deteriorated at the bottom. We may need to leverage budget throughout the year to address this. Carol is just beginning to investigate it. 
  • There have been reports of mail theft by breaking into and damaging homeowner’s mailboxes. Tammy and David indicated as a precaution to go to USPS online and sign up for “Informed Delivery” your mail to be scanned to help monitor if mail is missing. It was suggested to add this information on the HHCO Website. 
  • The link to USPS Informed Deliver is Informed Delivery (usps.com).

Election of Officers

Board of Directors/Election of officers occurs every 2 years in even numbered years. Board positions are a two-year term.

Carol walked through volunteers and nominations made prior to the Annual Meeting. 

  • Carol Straughan and David Blatner have volunteered for position of Co-Presidents
  • Trisha Albrecht has volunteered for the position of secretary
  • Tammy Lally has volunteered for the position of treasurer
  • Note: Social Committee is volunteer and does not require nomination. Chris Vanderwel and Melissa Williams have volunteered to take this position from Tisha and Pam. 

Carol opened the floor for further nominations for all positions. No additional nominations were made. David moved to close nominations and take a vote. Chris Vanderwel seconded the motion. Carol called for the vote.  All confirmed to move forward with the 2022 new officer nominations. 

Your new HHCO Officers for 2022 – 2024 are as follows:

  • Carol Straughan – Co-President
  • David Blatner – Co-President
  • Trisha Albrecht – Secretary
  • Tammy Lally – Treasurer

Social Committee is volunteer and does not require nomination. Chris Vanderwel and Melissa Williams have volunteered fill this position after outstanding social engagement over the years by Trisha and Pam.  

Other Business:

David shared an experience in replacing a deck and a surprise of being required to discover if there were wetlands on his property during the permit process. He offered awareness that there will likely be an extra step / cost when permitting through King County. David will put the firm he used on the contractor site to assess for wetlands. 

Neighborhood Landscaping Concerns:

  • Pam and Rowan noted a few homeowners are not taking care of their front landscaping and wanted the board to be pro-active in approaching the homeowners to comply with the CC&R’s. It was noted that people did not realize they needed to email the HHCO Board with a formal complaint for the board to take any action. 
  • The board was asked to state the direction and ask that they comply, and the Board should send a letter via USPS describing the verbal complaints to the homeowner. The USPS Letter needs to provide detail with specific issue/complaints that need to be solved, in addition to the guidelines. 
  • Reiley noted the Board should make the request actionable, set a date to be resolved and if not addressed by the stated date, then the board will take action. 
  • David B referenced: HHCO Landscaping Guidelines: http://huntingtonhighlands.org/members/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/HHCO_LandscapeGuidelines.pdf
  • Homeowners are made aware and accept the CC&Rs as they purchase homes in the Huntington Highlands organization. CC&Rs are also provided in the new homeowner gift baskets. 
  • Rowan offered to assist in gathering feedback to share with the board and the homeowner in question and even deliver if needed. 
  • David Blatner asks any homeowner to send written complaints to David/HHCO Board regarding unkept landscaping with specific detail about what the complainer would like to have addressed. 

Pete motioned to close the meeting at 8:47. 

Meeting adjourned

2021 HHCO Annual Meeting

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Huntington Highlands Community Organization
Annual Meeting: March 23, 2021

David called the meeting to begin at 7:43 pm.
(Note that this meeting was our first ever meeting held on Zoom.)

HHCO Board in attendance:

  • Dave Blatner – Co-President
  • Carol Straughan – Co-President
  • Susan Sodorff – Treasurer
  • Trisha Albrecht – Social
  • Lynn Kepl – Secretary

Community neighbors in attendance:

  • John & Pamela Logsdon
  • Javier Sanchez
  • Tom & Elaine Pool
  • Jamie & Carson Sullen
  • Jim Wahl
  • Pete Fortman
  • Greg Olsby
  • Liz Storey
  • Anne Cochez
  • Debbie Carlson

Budget report:

Susan Sodorff walked through the budget. We are bringing forward from 2020 was $8,999.31. Adding 2021 dues of $7,000.00 once all received will bring total operating budget to $15,999.31 before expenses.  Estimated expenses are $10,960.00 leaving a remaining balance of $5,039.31.

  • Social events will continue at current spend rate,
  • Administrative costs (postage, PO Box. Etc.) of about $200
  • Liability Insurance is 1,400 for the front entrance.
  • Reserve fund is to ensure we have minimum 600 in account.

David Straughan motioned for budget to be approved. Pam Logsdon second the motion.

A vote was taken with unanimous approval.

New Neighbor report

  • Tricia Albrecht and Pam Logsdon took a gift basket to the new owner and family on 194th cul-de-sac to the Papp’s. Two kids, toddler and pre-school age. Tricia and Pam give new owners a nice basket of Woodinville interested, small gift and items for children. A letter is included with an ask to give their information to Carol/the HHCO board and that refers the HHCO web page link & CC&Rs.
  • It is important to place items in the basket that are from local stores and something for everyone in the family.

Social activities:

  • Currently no social activities planned. Tricia noted we are waiting to see when we can add social events outdoors. Perhaps in the fall – we are waiting for the governor to open things up and we’ll wait to see once we are COVD safe to have social gatherings again.
  • Anxious to see what happens when Schools open.
  • Tricia is open to suggestions on ideas to hold community events. Halloween was noted as social distancing was fantastic, an experiment that went extremely well.
  • It was mentioned we welcome renters in the neighborhood to community events. For better inclusion as Carol learns of new renters, she will share new neighbors with Tricia to bring a welcome basket and letter. Additionally, there are new renters Tricia will reach out to – to learn about the family and introduce HHCO.

Nominations Committee:

  • Mellissa and Dave Straughan volunteered last year to put a nomination committee to begin recruiting for new board members. Please feel free to nominate and send ideas to the HHCO Board Board@HuntintonHighlands.org. David will craft an email to send to all neighbors and include that email. It’s a great community and way to give back to our own great community.

Comments / Concerns:

  • Recommended contractors list needs a new owner to keep it updated and is looking for a new owner. Contact board@HuntintonHighlands.org.
  • Reminder you can always find people’s email by going to our web site clicking on the map to find the owners email address. Discussion about whether the owner email should be viewable on the map and/or renter. It was decided that Carol will send the rental owners a letter when they have a rental change to add both the owner and the rental person to receive emails sent once map lot is clicked on.
  • Liz suggested collecting contractors list by categories. Dave S. suggested start from scratch since most if not all are out of date. Liz volunteered to put the note/survey together and work with David B. to get a google from in the site.

Entrance / Fencing:

  • Was there anything needed to discuss on the Fencing? David just needs to look up owner to get the ends of the fencing extended as originally drawn.
  • Lighting timer issue was raised, and it was determined there is no timing issue as Paul V. resolved it. Susan commented it is now based on light/dark and no longer timer based.

New Business:

  • Pam asked if title companies still call to understand the dues needed as new homeowner purchases are made. Carol endorsed they do reach out.
  • CC&R question raised about action we take for neighbors not complying to the CC&Rs. Example used is maintenance of the front yard. For systemic non-compliance neighbors should email the board with the issue at hand for the Board to address non-compliance with the resident / owner and refer them the CC&R area of non-compliance. Repeated non-compliance consequence in the CC&Rs can have the HHCO board arrange to service the front yard with a bill to the homeowner.
  • David B. / HHCO board committed to document the policies/CC&R language and send an email to non-compliant homeowners who are currently out of compliance with board dues and yard maintenance.
  • David will add that Policy / CC&R language to the front page of the HHCO site.

Meeting adjourned at 8:28 pm.
Dave motioned to adjourn the meeting. Lynn Kepl second. Unanimous agreement.

2020 HHCO Annual Meeting

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Huntington Highlands Community Organization
Annual Meeting, March 3, 2020

Welcome & Introductions led by Carol Straughan

Meeting commenced at 7:08 pm.

Board Attendees:

  • David Blatner – Co-President
  • Carol Straughan – Co-President
  • Susan Sodorff – Treasurer
  • Trish Albrecht – Social Chair
  • Lynn Kepl – Secretary

Community Attendees:

  • Dave Straughan
  • Ann Lind
  • Paula Furic
  • Carson Solem
  • Chris Vanderwel
  • Paul Vanderwel
  • Melissa Williams

Treasury report by Susan Sodorff

2019 forwarded $7,870 and collecting dues of $7,000 keeping dues at $100 per household.  We are still collecting for $700 not yet paid and to be collected. Susan read though the budget line items:

Entrance landscaping costs $3,360 to maintain.

Added $2,500 to complete the fencing if we choose to do so. We are two sections; 12 feet shy of being completed. Dave Straughan is getting bids to consider. The previous contractor has retired since the fencing was placed in 2014-16. At that time each section was $900.

Question was raised about the light timing at the entrance is off. Each time the power goes out the timer is disrupted. Paul mentioned he would like to put auto eye to modify the lighting as the dawn to dusk eye for the entry way light at a cost of ~$30.00. Paul offered to purchase and put the light in. Paula Furick proposed and Susan Sodorff seconded. Susan gave Paul permission to enter her yard for implementing and servicing the eye.

Social events $1500 is same and based off last year (1082.80).

Administration fees are $200, primarily used for postage. We are required to send written notice for the Annual meeting and invoicing once a year.

Lawyer reserve in the event it is needed.

Insurance liability for the entrance for preventative defense and protects the association in the event someone has interest to sue the association.

Reserve fund of $600.

Total estimated will be $10,260 if we do the fencing with remainder for the next year of $4,600.

Paula asked about landscaping and what they do. Mow, hedge, trim bushes, weed, cut ivy back, and extra work upon request. $280 a month. They are reliable and communicate well. Example, they quickly repaired damage from the snowplow, they fixed it and did not charge the association.

This led to a discussion on managing yard maintenance for the round abouts. The CC&Rs indicate the homeowners are responsible for caring of the cul-de-sac. Various thoughts were expressed. Owners attending the meeting who are on cul-de-sac streets don’t mind taking care of their own island. Points were raised that the funding for this maintenance doesn’t impact all homeowners. Two out of three cul-de-sac owners were at the meeting and expressed they are happy maintaining the cul-de-sac which closed the discussion.

It was proposed by David Blatner and seconded by Lynn Kepl to pass the budget as is.

Social report by Trish Albrecht

New neighbors moved in; Sanchez’s and Helmers. Sanchez’ family has 4 children. Helmers moved to be closer to their grown children and grandchildren.

Events:

The Yang family hosted the summer social which had about 10 families, served Asian food and played piano which made for a fun event. Light attendance we think because it was held on a Saturday rather than a Sunday. Thank you to the Yang’s for hosting this great event!

Carson and Jaimie Solem  held the Holiday party – thank you for hosting! Great family event with Santa Clause and all. Trish and Carol helped set it up and prepare. Santa was a hit, very generous however this Santa is retiring. Hoping we have volunteers next year for Santa and to host the holiday event.

Timing of the events was discussed to understand how to increase attendance. Perhaps timing (month of year) was difficult, and it may be better to hold in August given the weather in September. Liz Storey  has volunteered to host the summer event in August. Wahl’s may be hosting the Holiday party and Trish is following up as December is a long way off.

Trish asked for suggestions for driving more attendance. Consensus of meeting attendees was that lower attendance is likely due to busy family calendars on weekends. Trish suggested an attraction to promote attendance such as bouncy house, clown or pony rides.

Trish and others commented. We continue to encourage attendance at events. We send a save the date 4 months before the event. Two weeks before the event, and then just before. We’ve tried a call down per street and we have put signs on mailboxes. It was decided we will again have an ambassador on each street to call neighbors to encourage attendance for the next event.

Chris suggested an early evening activity is a time that works well. Trish suggested Happy Hour/Pub night was something another neighborhood did and had positive attendance. Dave Straughan suggested an ice cream social as an additional draw for younger families.  Chris and Paul volunteered to do a Happy Hour/Pub night in late spring. Chris will come back with a date. It was suggested a Thursday/weeknight may draw more attendance.

It was also suggested to have Pop Up events throughout the year.

Carol raised that if we add a couple of social events, we will need to add funds to the budget. Susan noted that Jamie’s ’s receipts were not included in the budget mentioned earlier. Decision was made to add $500.00 to the Social budget for a total annual budget of $2,000.00. Dave proposed and Chris Vanderwel seconded the $500 increase to the Social budget.

Survey Feedback by David Blatner

What’s Liked:

  • People loved the neighbors and wanted more time to connect with each other.
  • Like the quiet and appearance of neighborhood.

Biggest concerns:

  • Houses and yards that are not well kept.
  • Aggressive dogs towards people.
  • Do a better job following and enforcing the CC&Rs.
  • Election of officers – HHCO may not have new leadership when the time comes to transition leadership. (see below for discussion).

Suggestions:

  • More social events/block parties.
  • Community common area (pool, tennis court, community center).
  • People want to be involved, and unfortunately have conflicts sometimes.

Reviving the Halloween party is 50% say we should/should not.

Other feedback:

  • Many people want to be involved with the community but don’t always have time.
  • People want to see the budget, but they don’t come to the meeting.

David Blatner will send the budget via an email with a link to review to be more secure.

Election of HHCO board officers by David Blatner

The HHCO elects’ officers every other year, with this meeting on March 3, 2020 being an election year/night.

David Blatner discussed that the current leadership has been on for years and needs fresh leaders to keep the neighborhood and covenants going.

Dave Straughan suggested creating a nominating committee that would invite people to participate. We want to get some of the newer residents  who moved into this neighborhood who appreciate what we have here in Huntington Highlands to find interested in taking a future position on the board.

Future Board members would then have a year to work with the current officers / HHCO Board and get up to speed on processes. The nominating committee would work a year in advance to allow for time of transition vs. finding new members the weeks before the nomination year and night. Dave Straughan suggests talking with neighbors throughout the year to find interested parties.

Meeting attendees commented that this neighborhood was one of the last areas where builders did not clear cut the trees. It is a one of a kind community.

Dave Straughan and Melissa Williams have volunteered to lead a nomination committee.

David Blatner discussed the positions, 2 Co-presidents, Treasurer, Social Chair, and Secretary. An Architecture position for reviews was mentioned. Dave Straughan relayed that Architecture decisions must be done by the HHCO Board as the deciding committee according to the CC&Rs.

Election of Board officers:

Dave Straughan moved that the existing officers continue their positions for the next year.

David Blatner called to question: All in favor of the current officers holding their current positions for another term.  Attendees responded with unanimous “aye”.

New Business

  • Carol suggested we need new A boards. Discussion led that we need new overlays to attach to the current A boards.
  • Ann Lind noted that the Stop sign heading north on 184th can’t be seen very well and the tree needs to be cut back. Dave Straughan volunteered to talk to the homeowner  on the corner to trim the tree that is hindering visibility of the stop sign.

Meeting Adjourned at 7:51pm.

February 2020 Neighborhood Survey Results

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We’re pleased to announce the results of our second-ever HHCO neighborhood survey. The last time we surveyed the neighborhood was 2015 (see results here).

This year A total of 27 out of the 71 homes answered the survey (38%). The results were very positive, and people clearly really enjoy living in our lovely neighborhood for its visual appeal, wide streets, and well-kept homes. However, there are some concerns about a few homes not following landscaping and other CC&R rules.

You can download the results of the survey and read people’s responses here.

2019 HHCO Annual Meeting

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Huntington Highlands Community Organization
Annual Meeting, February 26th, 2019

Carol S. called the meeting to begin at 7:46. February 26th,2019.

Carol S. welcomed neighbors to the meeting.

  • Members present:
    • Carol S. – President
    • Dave B. – Co-President
    • Susan S. – Treasurer
    • Trisha A. – Social
    • Lynn K. – Secretary
    • Anne L.
    • Melissa W.
    • Betty S.
    • Paula F.
    • Jim W.
    • Dave S.
  • Budget report:
    • Susan S. walked through the budget. Amount we are bringing forward from 2018 is $7,362.57. Adding 2019 dues of $7,000.00 (once all received) will bring total operating budget to $14,362.57. Estimated expenses are $7,660.00 leaving a remaining balance of $6,702.57.
    • Landscaping maintenance is $271.50 per month.
    • Social events will continue at current spend rate,
    • Administrative costs (postage, PO Box. Etc.)
    • Liability Insurance is 1,300 for the front entrance.
    • Reserve fund is to ensure we have minimum 600 in account.
    • Carol S. motioned for budget to be approved. David B. seconded the motion.
  • Social Event:
    • Summer Social and Holiday Party – Riley and Yuan Y. will host this year’s summer social.
    • Great Summer neighborhood party at Melissa’s. About 39 people attended.
    • Holiday Party at Paul and Chris V’s home with Santa dropping by and passing out treats. About 50 people attended this event.
    • Many of our new families are attending with their children and participating in the Huntington Highlands community events.
    • Question came up from David, should we revive the Halloween Party given the number of children who have moved into. Would they attend an early afternoon Sunday Halloween party?
      • David will create a survey and send to neighbors asking other questions
  • Welcome baskets:
    • Welcome gift baskets have been delivered to all new neighbors from the HHCO neighborhood.
    • New neighbors:Javier and Rosa S.  Henri and Susan T.  James and Sylvia H.  Steven and Nicole B.  Carson S. and Jamie J.
    • 15 children have moved in.
    • Feedback from our new neighbors are expressing fondness of the neighborhood. New neighbors come from local areas and from across the country.
    • Newest neighbor is moving into their home late February.
  • Web page and preferred subcontractors list:
    • David B. proposed we update our current subcontractors list available on the website. All agreed an update is a great idea.
    • David B. will be sending a new contact list to enable neighbors to contact each other in the case of concern (e.g. left garage open).
  • Landscaping update
    • Susan S. contracted a new landscaper in 2018 and has been happy with the results.
    • Susan raised a question on whether we should complete the remaining fencing the board did not complete due to budget limitations when the entrance and landscape was updated a few years back.
    • Susan S. or David S. will reach out to the existing contractor, Badgley to discover the overall expense.
    • The front entrance sign letters visibility was raised by Anne L. We discussed the need to adjust the signage to improve visibility of the Huntington Highlands letters.
  • OTHER BUSINESS
    • Carol S. raised discussion topics and asked for other new business.
    • We have the summer social late summer then the holiday party two months later. Is there interest in a spring event in addition to or in place of the existing events?
      • David B. will add this to survey
    • Are the men interested in establishing a game night for guys? There was no interest from the attendees.
    • Ask for volunteers for: Halloween BBQ Holiday Party People interested in becoming a board member
      • David will add this to the survey
    • Thank you! Paul V. who repaired and updated our entrance lighting
    • Melissa and Bill W. for hosting the summer social
    • Chris and Paul V. for hosting our holiday party
    • Neighbor(s) who helped with the plowing of our neighborhood streets.
    • We have a HHCO Womens Bunko group that is available to join or visit as a stand-in. Bunko takes place on Wednesday’s, the last Wednesday of the month Jan – Aug, and First Wednesday Sept – Dec.
      • David will add this to the survey to join or are interested in subbing.

Meeting adjourned at 8:29 pm.

2018 HHCO Annual Meeting

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Huntington Highlands Community Organization
Annual Meeting, March 20, 2018

Meeting called to order at 7:45 p.m. by Co-President Carol Straughan

  • Welcome and introductions.
  • Members Present:
    • David Blatner
    • Trish Albrecht
    • Melissa Williams
    • Chris Vanderwell
    • Paul Vanderwell
    • Pete Fortman
    • Jim Wahl
    • Dave Straughan
    • Betty Stack
    • John Signmar
    • Tina Schiller
    • Anne Lind
    • Susan Sodorff
    • Carol Straughan
  • Budget Report, Susan Sodorff, Treasurer
    • Passed around copies of budget report
    • Budget was approved
    • Susan noted that we are not satisfied with the company doing the lawn maintenance for the entryway and will be looking for other resources.  Discussion followed with some suggestions of companies.
    • Carol Straughan noted that the board would be requesting bids to bring the entrance lighting up to par – it isn’t working right now.  Discussion of lighting at the entrance followed. Paul Vanderwell and Pete Forman offered to take a look and see if they could determine what was wrong and if they could repair the lighting. If needed,
    • We will also get bids from electricians.
  • Social Activities Report, Trisha Albrecht
    • Summer Social hosted by Dan and Trisha Albrecht
      • Rented a ‘Jumpy house’, which was a big hit with the children. We had 18 families attend (with 13 kids). In addition Trisha led the children on a ‘treasure hunt’ in the forested area behind her yard.
      • Served heavy appetizers, wine, beer and soft drinks. Drawings were held for prizes of wine and gift certificates.
      • Melissa Williams volunteered to host the Summer Social in September – exact date to be determined.
    • Holiday party hosted by Jim and Stephanie Wahl
      • 26 families attended with 5 children.
      • Santa Dan Albrecht played the part of Santa and handed out gift bags to the children.
      • Collected and delivered 77 food items to the Maltby Food Bank.
    • Chris and Paul Vanderwell volunteered to host the Holiday Party in 2018.
      • Dave Straughan asked for suggestions on how to increase attendance at these events. Suggestions included:
      • Set date way in advance – two-month notice
      • Have an Ambassador on each cul-de-sac to contact their neighbors and personally invite them to attend.
      • Flyers on mailboxes
      • Email notifications
      • Anne Lind volunteered to be the ambassador for her cul-de-sac
      • Tina Schiller volunteered for her cul-de-sac
      • Trisha Albrecht volunteered for her cul-de-sac
      • Pete Fortman and David Blatner volunteered for their cul-de-sac
      • The Board will work on getting an ambassador for the remaining street(s) and cul-de-sac
  • Welcome Baskets – Trisha Albrecht and Pam Logsdon
    • The Welcome Baskets are filled with written material from the Chamber on our local area and state. Toys and child activity items and/or pet treats. Gift cards and items from Molbaks, See’s Candy, AMC, a local brewery, wine tastings, Minea Farms, Starbucks and a plant.
    • Baskets were delivered to the Yang family in March, Tina Schiller and John Sigmar in July and the Callen family in October.
  • Election of Officers, David Blatner
    • The election of officers occurs every other year on even numbered years. Currently the board of directors consists of 2 Co-Presidents, Treasurer and Secretary. The board has decided to add the position of Vice-President.
    • David asked if anyone would like to serve on the board for the upcoming term. There were no volunteers. The current board volunteered to serve for 2018 and 2019. Trisha Albrecht volunteered to fill the position of Vice President. The motion was made by Dave Straughan and seconded by Melissa Williams. A vote was called for and motion passed unanimously.
  • New Business
    • Discussion was brought up about creating a Google group so residents have a place to communicate directly with the neighborhood as a whole group rather than have all communications go through the co-president (Carol Straughan).
    • It was brought up that it might work to create a Facebook page for HHCO but after further discussion that idea was dropped. David Blatner will look into setting up a group – one that residents will have the option to opt out of if they don’t want to participate. It was brought up that this is a means to further efforts to foster neighborhood cohesiveness. The co-president would maintain the current email system for matters of emergency.
    • Entryway – need to fix the lettering so it is easier to read. We will contact the company that made the sign and see if they have any suggestions.
    • Wahl’s may be interested in hosting the Halloween BBQ
    • Budget will be amended accordingly for the Halloween BBQ
    • Question about whether paint colors need to be approved. Yes, unless it is the same color as the existing paint color.
    • Check out the web site http://huntingtonhighlands.org/
  • Meeting was adjourned.