Mar Cheri Board of Directors Meeting Minutes

August 4, 2015

Ken Scheweitz, Nancy Krueger, Mark Bunger, and Vicki Bengeult were in attendance with Michelle Egusa, who had to leave early. A quorum was present. Minutes of July meeting were approved via email prior to the meeting.

Ken led the meeting by focusing discussion of the following items as part of a master plan. We talked about how much time and effort it requires to maintain the pool and surrounding areas, how few volunteers there are doing the work, and that it costs more to maintain as the property ages.

Pool – Nancy and Mark

We have been working hard to keep the pool water healthy. We replaced the UV light in our UV filter and that has made the water cleaner. We are waiting to get the go ahead from King County for the new liquid chlorine system. The meter for this system is installed.

Nancy obtained a bid to extend the wooden pool fence and add doors to house the plastic container for the 15 gallon carboys of chlorine which we will need to run the new system. It will cost $500 to complete this enclosure. Vicki suggested we also have him repair the broken fence leading into the sports court area, and the board agreed.

Mark and Nancy discussed the reasons we need to replace the sand filter for the pool right away, in addition to the new chlorine system. This filter is past its expected life and because it isn’t working properly, Mark has had to drain significant volumes of water from the pool in the middle of the night (required by the water district to be done at off peak hours) to keep acid levels down. Estimates from Watermill are that the installed ion pool filter would cost $2827.57. A new heater installed would run $4,878.19. The board agreed to proceed with the new sand filter and asked Mark and Nancy to obtain additional bids for the heater and pool resurfacing.

The health department will likely require our pool to be resurfaced after next season. The work must be done at the end of summer when the water table is at its lowest, because there is a risk that hydraulic pressure from the water table will push the empty pool out of the ground. Resurfacing will probably cost somewhere around $30,000. We have approximately $20,000 set aside for this.

Swim lessons continue. We also have two families taking private lessons on Saturday and Sunday morning.

We have a request to keep the pool open on weekends only until the middle of September, and have agreed to do so if lifeguards are available, water quality is good, and the weather continues warm.

Architecture Committee – Vicki

We requested bids for maintenance of the common areas around the pool and Vicki met with four different landscape firms. The Architecture Committee believes this area is out of compliance with the covenants with weed and blackberry overgrowth as well as trees blocking views. In the past, volunteers have tried to weed during the spring work parties, but this has not been enough to keep this area in usable and presentable condition year round, so we recommend hiring ongoing maintenance.

The bids were specified in several parts: a) One time cleanup of debris from the tree cutting on the Sorenson/Cheng property. This cleanup would be for our property along the stream, and also cutting blackberries back 3 feet from the fence at the back of the property by the pool b) ongoing maintenance to keep entire common area clear of invasive species, mowed, and weeded; c) the drainage project (rough bid because city requirements are still unknown). 3 estimates were received, and we are expecting the final one within the week, and all will be presented at the next board meeting.

The cost to remove half the spruce trees around the pool house would be $1400. Replacement trees would be required by the city, but trees of more appropriate height would be selected and could be placed out of view lines and to provide shade in the picnic areas. No decisions were made, pending the requirements from the city for the drainage project, which Ken is working on.

Stream Mitigation/Walking Path Project Update

Isaac Conlen, City Planner of Federal Way. wrote to give us the outline of the requirements for extending the trail north of the playground in the buffer zone along the stream. Basically, we would have to apply for regulatory exemptions, which would be expensive and time consuming. This project has been tabled for now.

Vicki attended a public hearing about a stream buffer encroachment application for a property to the north of the pool. She obtained some information that may help us fulfill requirements for replanting the area along the stream. It took this property owner almost 3 years and multiple engineering and environmental impact studies to be able to replace the house on his property, and this was granted in large part because he is removing a culvert and ‘daylighting’ the stream, which the city considers an improvement for stream health. This gives an idea of the kind of work needed to gain permission for a path along the stream.

Treasurer’s Report – July Activity

Income		Expenses
HOA Dues	910	Bank Charges	44
Guest Fees	82	Dues & Subscriptions	48
Swim Lessons	2089	General Admin	284
Associate Fees	175	Payroll Taxes	575
Total Revenue	3256	Wages	6805
		Pool	966
		Taxes & Licenses	20
		Utilities	140
		Total Expenditures	8881

In light of the major pool expenses this year, Michelle was asked to provide information on year to date budget at our next meeting. The meeting was adjourned at 9:00 pm. Next meeting will be at 7 pm on September 9, at the Bengeults’.

July 7, 2015

Ken Scheweitz, Nancy Krueger, Mark Bunger, and Vicki Bengeult were in attendance. A quorum was present. Minutes of June meeting were approved via email prior to the meeting.

4th of July picnic – Thanks to all who helped with setup and provisions. We had a pretty good turnout in spite of the heat.

Pool and Common Area Maintenance – Mark Bunger

Thanks to some great volunteer work by Mark Bunger, Larry Mahar, new neighbors Makoto & Chiyo Sugiuchi, and expert backhoe driving by Heather Salton & Eric Leonheart, the easement area between the pool and Larry Mahar’s home was cleared of weeds and covered with wood chips. Thanks to all who helped with this big project. New neighbors are really “chipping” in.

We have ordered a new chlorine control system. It is a lease agreement that will cost $99/month and an initial $1167. The monthly fee includes weekly service and water quality checks. The system will prevent wild fluctuations in water quality and chlorine levels throughout the year. The public health people will love it. This year we had problems with acid levels that required draining a lot of water. [NOTE from Nancy and Mark after the meeting: The Health Dept requires an engineer/architectural report because this chlorine system must be enclosed in its own little house. We are reconsidering this as probably not cost effective and are exploring other options.]

We discussed Mark’s drainage plan for the area. Ken will follow up with the city to find out what the city requires to get permits.

Pool – Nancy Krueger

We had to close the pool for one weekend due to an algae bloom (which will be prevented in the future with the new chlorine system) and a broken filter. The water quality was not good enough to fulfill Health Department requirements.

The pool temperature fluctuates somewhat because of air temperature, and there is a delay between moving the heater setting and how quickly the water temperature rises. We don’t have a thermostat that keeps the temperature constant – it is an up or down dial, a click at a time. When the heater is replaced we will get a more accurate method for controlling temperature. The goal is to keep the temperature at 85 degrees, so that it is comfortable for swimming – not too hot or too cold.

Swimming lessons are still going well. 1^st session was completely full, 2^nd almost full. We have 15 associate memberships. We may get up to 5 more because we offer ½ summer memberships.

Architecture Committee The hot, dry weather is making life difficult for desirable plants and seems to be beneficial to dandelions and other invasive species. The Architecture Committee (Bengeult, Salton, Sugiuchi) walked the neighborhood and identified several homes that are out of compliance with the covenants on keeping lawns mowed and weeds under control. Also, vehicles are being stored in the yards of some properties. The CC&Rs state that vehicles must be stored in garages (driveways are for frequently used cars and yards are not for long term storage). The owners of homes in violation of the covenants will receive reminder letters requesting them to conform. The rules are in place for the benefit of all and to keep property values high. Thank you in advance for helping to keep our neighborhood beautiful.

Please do a regular cleanup of weeds from along curbs, streets and in sidewalk cracks. This should be a normal part of yard maintenance. The neighborhood looks much prettier when weed free. There are several homes for sale, so let’s all help out by keeping our properties looking attractive.

We discussed the need to keep the common areas down by the pool in better condition year round. This may mean hiring a maintenance company to remove blackberries, weed, and do work on a more regular basis. Vicki will get bids and report back to the board.

If the HOA contracts with a landscaping firm, we may be able to negotiate discounts for individual homeowners if enough people are interested. Likewise, if you are interested in sidewalk, curb, or driveway repair, let us know. We may be able to get a group rate on that as well. Send an email to architecture@marcheri.org or call Vicki at 206-578-2527. It would be good to know the general level of interest.

Welcome Packets Because we have had more turnover of homes in the past year or two, and there are several homes for sale, Vicki prepared a packet of information to provide to new homeowners so they are aware of the community expectations as outlined in the bylaws and as have been historically upheld. A copy of this will be distributed to all owners with the new directories, which should be printed in the next week or so. Vicki is obtaining info from 3 new owners before going to press.

Playground We did not get any feedback on the idea of removing the playground equipment. It is old, splintery, and unsafe. We are leaning toward removing it and planning a covered area (shade would have been nice at the picnic!) and landscaping after the draining project is complete.

Future Projects We have a long laundry list of maintenance issues needing to be addressed in the next few years. The property is showing its age. Projects include: correcting drainage problems in the common area, pool resurfacing, replacement of pool deck, replacement of pool heater, new roof for the pool house, repairing fences, repaving the parking lot, improved landscaping and maintenance of the playground area, transforming the play area into another use, possibly with a covered shade area. Of course all of this will require time, energy, and money. The board will obtain estimates and prepare a report of expected expenses so we can make a financial plan for moving forward and still maintain emergency reserves.

Annual assessments We still have 5 owners late on the 2015 payments. Of these, 2 owe more than one year and liens will be filed immediately on these homes. In June, we obtained a judgment in small claims court against one homeowner. If you have not paid your dues, please do so or contact us immediately to avoid small claims court, 12% interest, legal fees, a lien on your home. Households in arrears are not allowed to use the pool.

Stream Mitigation/Walking Path Project Update

No news from either the city or Dr. Cheng on the mitigation plan. We are aware that the weeds are growing out of control in the stream area and hope to be able to clear up our portion of the property soon. In a separate but related matter, Nancy spoke with the City Planning Manager (Isaac Conlen) about creating a walking path from our pool area to replace the one we used to have through the Cheng property to gain access to Redondo without walking on 1^st Ave. When Dr. Cheng purchased the property, he closed it to our use and posted No Trespassing signs. There is a vacated space between the Cheng and Bennett property to the north of the pool which could be used to create a path. The Bennetts are willing to allow a portion of their property for this use. The city has restrictions because of the stream buffer, but we may be able to get permission to proceed. This will be a work in progress for some time, but we would like to restore safer access down the hill than via 1^st Ave.

Treasurer’s Report

June Activity

Income		Expenses
HOA Dues	655	Disposal Fees	55
Associate Membership	2790	Dues/Subscriptions	38
Gues Fees	69	Work Refunds	200
Swim Lessons	966	Insurance	741
Total Revenue	4480	Job Materials	115
		Legal Fees	280
		Payroll	546
		Pool	1763
		Repair & Maintenance	171
		Taxes & Licenses	706
		Tree Maintenance	794
		Utilities	335
		Total Expenditures	5744

Our next meeting will be held at 7 pm on August 4, at the pool. Meeting was adjourned at 8:30 pm.

June 2, 2015
Nancy Krueger, Michelle Egusa, Mark Bunger, and Vicki Bengeult were in attendance. Ken Scheweitz and Mark Moberg were out of town. A quorum was present. Minutes of May meeting were approved.

4th of July picnic – 3pm – Please join us! Burgers, hot dogs and fixin’s provided. Bring a salad or dessert to share. We’ll have some beer on hand or BYOB but no glass please, especially in pool area. Help with setup and grilling needed! Call Nancy at 253-941-6390.

Work parties

Thanks to all who came and helped out over the 3 Saturdays. Refund checks have been issued. Special thanks to Sherry and Joey Murchison and Anne Mesick for maintaining the 1st Avenue and Dash Point entrances all year round.

Pool Maintenance – Mark Bunger

The recirculating valve in the pool pump system is leaking internally. The cyanuric acid level was too high on the first weekend (May 23) to allow the pool to be open. Mark had to drain about 5 feet total of the pool water to bring the level down. This acid is not toxic in itself but it prevents chlorine from doing its job. We are awaiting bids to fix the leak and for a new liquid chlorine pump (currently we use tablets) that would automate the chlorine process and prevent the cyanuric levels from increasing over time. The lifeguard closet has been refurbished with cement board to repair rodent damage.

Pool – Nancy Krueger
Our first open Saturday was quite busy. We have 12 families signed up for children’s swim lessons. We have 4 levels, preschool to more advanced, with two teachers from June 22 to August 7th. The pool opens full time June 16th, hours 12:30 to 8:30 pm. Adult swim 5 to 6:30.

Architecture Committee

No new issues or requests. We’ve noticed many people out working in their yards. Thank you for keeping our neighborhood beautiful. Some lots are not being maintained so well. Please abide by the covenants about maintaining yards and not allowing excessive weeds or other overgrowth on your property. As always, be considerate of your neighbors – unmaintained yards are not only unsightly, but create extra work for surrounding lots when weeds spread and go to seed.

The spruce trees by the pool were trimmed to remove dead material and limbed up to above the roof line. Vicki contacted the city and received a detailed response outlining steps required to remove and replace trees. Because the trees are in sensitive area identified for erosion control, we will need to draw up detailed plans, including replacement trees, a drainage plan, and erosion impact report. Because this all ties in with the drainage issues, we will work toward submitting a master plan to address improvements in the area and obtaining permits for all the projects at one time.

Annual assessments

We still have 7 owners late on the 2015 payments. Second late notices have gone out. If you have not paid your dues, please do so right away. Households in arrears are not allowed to use the pool. 2 owners are a year or more in arrears. We have a June 15 date in small claims court against the one who has refused to pay, and will try one more time to make arrangements with the other party before taking them to court as well.

Insurance

Vicki reported on recommendations made by our insurance agent. Our underlying general liability coverage is $2 million and costs about $1800. In the event of a large claim due to a serious event at the pool, this may not be enough, exposing homeowners to financial liability. Options to add $10 million, $5 million, or $1 million in umbrella coverage were discussed. Nancy moved to add an umbrella policy in the amount of $1 million at an annual cost of $250. Michelle seconded and the motion was approved. It is recommended to consult with your own home insurance agent regarding personal umbrella policy to cover a catastrophic event at the pool in excess of our $3 million total coverage.

Playground

The playground equipment is aging, and we had another discussion as to whether some of it should be removed. One idea is to remove some of the large spruce trees from around the pool house and replace them with smaller trees and shrubs in the current play area, and put tables and benches there. The city requires an equal number of tree credits to replace any removed trees, and this could be a nice area for that. Please let any board member know (email info@marcheri.org) if you have strong feelings about keeping the playground. We want to balance safety liability issues with neighborhood needs/wants;, your opinions will help guide us.

May Transactions
Income
$6370 Assessments
$1240 Associate Memberships
$ 80 Swim Lessons

Expenses
$650 Homeowner Work Refunds
$298 Office Expenses
$1565 Pool Maintenance
$ 139 Legal & Professional Fees
$ 38 Postage and Delivery
$291 Utilities

Stream Mitigation Project Update

A revised copy of the mitigation plan was requested and received from the wetlands biologist. The one obtained last year incorrectly identified the Sorenson/Cheng property as being owned by Mar Cheri. The revised version also corrects the stream buffer to 50 feet instead of 100 feet, and reflects the reduced size of the mitigation area not to include the east side of the stream (by the parking lot and sports court). We sent a letter to the city summarizing the results of our last meeting with them (see May minutes), where they agreed that our portion of the mitigation would be based on number of trees on our property as a percent of the total number of trees cut. A copy of that letter and the mitigation plan was forwarded to Dr. Cheng, the new owner of the Sorenson property. We have not heard anything from the city or Dr. Cheng. We would like to see progress on clearing brush and replanting, but at this point are waiting for the majority property owner to take action.

Our next meeting will be held at 7 pm on July 7, at the pool. Meeting was adjourned at 8:30 pm.

May 5, 2015

Ken Schiewetz, Nancy Krueger, Michelle Egusa, Mark Bunger, and Vicki Bengeult were in attendance. A quorum was present.

April minutes were approved with one addition to the Stream Mitigation Section: “Mr. Sorenson established an escrow account for the new owner to cover mitigation expenses. The extent to which this will cover costs is unknown.” Full copy of amended minutes is available on the website.

Work parties on May 9, 16

Thanks to all who came on May 2nd! We were able to get a lot of work accomplished.

We still have work parties scheduled for the mornings of May 9th and 16th, 9 to noon.
There is still plenty of work to be done. Drywall in the lifeguard closet and pump room is being replaced with cement board. We need to clean the gutters, pull weeds, trim the blackberries, install several lights, paint and get ready for opening on the 23rd. Hope to see you there!

Drainage problems in pool/playground area – Mark Bunger

Stan French of Lakehaven Utility District recommended Robinson-Noble, a geo-technical engineering firm to consult with us about the surface water at the parking lot and playground areas at the pool. On April 14, 2015, 1:00 pm, several board members and I met with Rick Powell, Principal Geotechnical Engineer of Robinson-Noble to inspect and discuss the surface water issues. We discussed where the water was coming from and how it affects the parking/playground areas.

If the water is coming from the Mirror Lake aquifer or if just coming down the hill from the slope, he stated there is nothing we can do to prevent that from happening. We can only handle it when it gets to our property. Rick looked at the slope on the east side of the pool, behind the fence. He felt the slope was not steep enough to worry about a landslide. The playground area was discussed and he was more concerned with the amount of water retained in that area and felt the existing drainage was not adequate or properly installed. (Last summer we determined that it is clogged.) Rick recommends a cut and cover style of drainage and at least 2, maybe 3 systems. The upper leg can tie into the lower one near the gate in the fence.

The sidewalk area water needs to be collected and routed below the black top surface of the parking lot. Last summer we determined that the parking lot is covered in asphalt with 3 to 6 inches of rocks put on top, and that the first 5 to 6 feet from the road were dug up to install drainage in the 1980s. That drainage is no longer working.

He felt a simple drawing and plan submitted to the city for approval should suffice for a permit, but if the city wants a more detailed plan, a civil engineer would be able to draw one. Rick did not feel we need to spend the money on getting a plan developed, unless the city requires it.

Pool Opening Preparations – Nancy Krueger

5 lifeguards are lined up, 2 of whom want to teach swim lessons, including one Navy Seal trainee (Joanne Avaiusini’s grandson)! The pool will open on May 23rd.

Architecture Committee

The board is in conversation with homeowners in regards to trimming a high hedge. This is expected to be resolved in the near future. Heather Salton has agreed to serve on the committee.

The spruce trees by the pool will be professionally trimmed (hopefully before pool opening) and “wind sailed” to open up views. These trees are large enough that they will probably need city permits to be removed. We discussed taking them out gradually, perhaps a couple per year and replacing them with something more suitable that won’t grow as tall and won’t drop needles into the gutters.

Annual assessments

We have 15 owners late on the 2015 payments. First late notices have gone out. 2 owners are a year or more in arrears. One of these has made arrangements to pay within the month. We will file in small claims court against the one who has refused to pay.

April Transactions
Income $15,470 Assessments

Expenses
$11 Permits (payroll)
$1408 Taxes & Licenses
$273 Utilities

Stream Mitigation Project Update

On Tuesday, April 28, Ken and Vicki met with the Federal Way Planning Manager, Isaac Conlen, and the Code Compliance Officer, Chris Freel. The city agrees to the following:

After a review of property lines, it is determined that only one tree was cut on Mar Cheri property. Mar Cheri is responsible for the mitigation costs in proportion to the number of trees cut that were on our property out of the entire cut. This will probably fall in the 5 to 10% range. By rough count, there were about 20 trees cut.

Because the east side of the stream on our property was not disturbed, we are not required to do any formal mitigation on our side of the stream.

Because we have boundary maps from 2006 that clearly identify the buffer zone to be 50 feet from the stream, we can keep the 50 foot buffer instead of being required to maintain a 100 foot buffer. (Note: the pool area is also recorded as being in a critical erosion area, so the entire area from the stream and up the east hill is considered special case and permits will be necessary for any future drainage work and/or tree cutting).

The city will be in contact with Dr. Cheng, the new owner, to ensure that he is aware that as the property owner of approximately 95% of the mitigation area, he will be responsible for moving the project ahead. We will support the effort by paying our share, but cannot enter into contracts for work to be performed on property we do not own.
Because we have already paid for the mitigation plan, our financial involvement may already be fulfilled.

Even though we do not have to follow the formal mitigation plan on the east side of the stream, we will remove the blackberries and try to keep the reed canary grass (and other invasive species) under control with mowing and perhaps planting with the natives recommended in the mitigation report.

The mitigation plan requires that the new plantings be done between October and February, so the area will continue to be an eyesore through the summer, but hopefully the area will be cleared and covered with mulch soon.
Our next meeting will be held at 7 pm on June 2, at the pool. Meeting was adjourned at 8:20 pm.

April 1, 2015

Attendees and Approval of Minutes

Ken Schiewetz, Nancy and Ray Krueger, Michelle Egusa, Mark Bunger, Mark Moberg, and Vicki Bengeult were in attendance. A quorum was present. March minutes were approved via email prior to being distributed to owners last month.

Old Business

Drainage problems in pool/playground area Mark is still waiting to hear from the water drainage specialists but will keep trying to reach them, since they are the recommended resource from Lakehaven Water District (LWD). The amount of water coming down the hill into the pool/playground area is substantial. LWD says that they are no longer releasing water from Mirror Lake, and that the natural aquifer level is at the level of our pool area, therefore the increase in flow to our low-lying land. No assistance is available from them to alleviate the problem, so we have to solve it in order to maintain the property in a usable state. Once we have a plan from the drainage specialists we will present it to the city for approval. We had a brief discussion about the possibility of removing the playground, but nothing was decided.

Work parties for getting the common areas ready for pool opening will be on May 2, 9, 16. We will need a lot of help this year. If these days don’t work for you, please contact Mark Bunger, who will be happy to offer you some choices for things to do. (maintenance@marcheri.org). $50 rebates go to anyone contributing at least 3 hours of time. Please help us bring the neighborhood back to a vibrant, well maintained state with lots of owner involvement. There is sure to be a task that fits your skills and abilities.

Yard Waste The board approved adding yard waste pickup service at the pool area with a 96 gallon bin at $10/month. This could also be used for the two entrances.

Pool Opening Preparations Nancy reports that 3 lifeguards are already signed up and she is in conversation with others who may return. 7 to 9 guards are needed to cover all the hours the pool is open. The mailing to nearby neighborhoods inviting them to become associate members will be sent this month. We have capacity for about 5 additional associate members. The pool will be open from Memorial Day through Labor Day weekends.

Stream Mitigation Project Update

Ken reported that he met with Steve Freeborn to find out where we stand with regards to the financial obligations in the stream cleanup relationship with Mar Cheri/Sorenson/Cheng. According to Steve, the contract he and Don Deighton entered into with Mr. Sorenson states that Sorenson will have no financial responsibility for the tree removal. The issue at hand is that the Board agreed to pay $2300 for removal of a few trees, but many more trees were cut down than board members agreed to, most of which are not on our property, and now we have a complicated and time consuming mitigation plan to implement which has an expected cost of between $15-16,000. As a board, we are all in agreement that the cleanup and replanting must be done, and are willing to take on necessary the work, but we are unclear about who is responsible for paying for it. [amended May 5 at Board of Directors Meeting: Mr. Sorenson established an escrow account for the new owner to cover mitigation expenses. The extent to which this will cover costs is unknown.] Ken and Nancy will meet with Dr. Cheng (new owner at the site) this coming weekend. We at least need his permission to go on to his property to begin clearing the brush, and we are hopeful that we can share the cost with other involved parties. Once complete, the stream area will be beautiful, but it is going to be a long process to get there.

New Business

Architecture Committee Two requests for house paint colors were received and approved, and one shake roof will be replaced with 30 year architectural shingles. After being contacted by a neighbor and the architecture chairperson, the owner of one home has removed an abandoned vehicle from the street and begun cleanup of the overgrowth on the property. Also, the board received a letter from one homeowner to another requesting tree trimming (arborvitae hedge), and will follow up on that as necessary.
Drainage EasementsVicki has noticed that water is pooling up at the back of one of the lots that have drainage easements (these are homes along 1st Ave). She will contact the owners of those properties to have them help investigate what is keeping water from draining properly into the storm drain. The bylaws include maintenance of these drainage easements as the responsibility of each household. If you have a drainage ditch/channel at the back of your lot, please ensure that it does not become overgrown or blocked in any way. Debris should not accumulate in these trenches. They drain into city-placed storm water catch-basins.

Future Projects

We will be creating a list of upcoming (multi-year) projects and expected budgets. The pool, deck, and other common areas are aging and will be needing substantial attention in order to maintain them to levels of safety and beauty that we all expect. This obviously takes money and helping hands. We are developing this list so that everyone knows what to expect in the next few years. We need volunteers, not only to keep costs down but also for the pleasurable benefit of having a community that knows each other and works together.

Treasurer Report

Michelle has been learning QuickBooks and becoming familiar with the treasurer position. Federal tax information was not sent to the accountant at the beginning of the year, but an extension has already been filed and she will get the information to the accountant right away.

Annual assessments We currently have 4 owners who are a year or more in arrears. Michelle will contact each of them to try to arrange for payment plans. If that doesn’t work, we will file in small claims court, and interest and court costs will be charged.

Next Meeting

7 pm on May 5, at the Bengeults’ (29816 2nd Ave SW)
Adjournment
Meeting was adjourned at 8:30 pm.

Mar Cheri Board of Directors Meeting Minutes
March 3, 2015

Attendees and Approval of Minutes

Ken Schiewetz, Nancy Krueger, Michelle Egusa, Mark Bunger, Mark Moberg, and Vicki Bengeult were in attendance. A quorum was present.
Minutes of the annual meeting are being prepared by Margo and will be voted for approval at the 2016 annual meeting.

Because this was our first meeting together as a board, and we have several new members, we spent much of the meeting learning about and discussing the issues we face this year. Continue reading “Board of Directors’ Meeting March 2015”

MAR CHERI COMMUNITY CLUB HOMEOWNER ASSOCIATION BOARD MINUTES

7:00 P.M. Tuesday, January 6, 2015

Location: Home of Stephen Freeborn

Present: Stephen Freeborn, Leigh Strinsky, Kay Gordon, Mark Moberg, Mark Bunger
Absent: Margo Rolf

The monthly meeting for January 2015 commenced at 7:00 p.m.

Minutes from last month’s meeting had been previously approved by e-mail. Steve signed off on the approved minutes.

Treasury

Leigh provided a Statement of Activity, a copy of which is attached hereto. As the pool is now closed for the winter, there is nothing to report as far as expenditures.

Pool

Mark Bunger reported that everything is fine with the pool. It has been secured for the winter. Water Mills, the company that provides pool service and is on contrast, has been making periodic scheduled visits.

Architecture: Kay has nothing to report.

Steve reported on several issues:

1. Tree Issue

The arborist report was submitted to the City in October. Since then, Steve has been making regular inquiries to the City. Despite inquiries, City has not yet responded.

Footnote: On Wednesday, January 7, 2015, Steve made another visit to the City and spoke with Chris Freel. She reports no action as yet taken by the City. Steve expressed his concerns and the desire on the part of
the community to move forward and get this issue resolved. Chris Freel said that she would push for resolution and get back to the Board.

2. Trespass Issue

The new owners of the home (Christopher Cheng) to the left of the pool, outside of the HOA community, and who are involved in the issue, has expressed his concern over continued use of the path that runs through his property, and has been utilized for years as a way of accessing the Redondo Beach area. He has expressed concern over issues of liability, should someone get hurt while using the path. For this reason, he has posted the path with “NoTrespassing” signs, and has asked that we inform the Community.

At the request of the Chengs, please refrain from any future use of the path.

The Mar Cheri Homeowners DOES NOT assume liability for any use of this path.

3. Annual Meeting

It is time again for the annual meeting. Steve agreed to contact the Federal Way Library to see about reserving a meeting room for either Monday, February 23, 2015 or Tuesday, February 24, 2015.

Footnote: Steve has since contacted the Federal Way Library. A meeting room has been reserved from 7 – 9 p.m. On Monday, February 23, 2015 at the Regional Library on 1st Way (near Winco).

4. Neighborhood Watch

It was suggested that, in light of the questionable activity that has been occurring in our neighborhood, it might be good to have someone from the Federal Way Police Department come and speak at the annual meeting. Steve has agreed to try and get someone scheduled.

5. Recruitment of Board Members

The annual meeting is the time when the next year’s board members are presented to the community for a vote. Every year, it seems to be more and more of a problem getting people willing to serve on the board. This, unfortunately results in the same board members continuing to serve for a lot longer than initially desired. This year has been no different. The board reports having communicated, without success, with homeowners in the community, hoping to find people willing to serve.

As there was no success, the Board explored options:

1. Have the annual dues WAIVED for anyone serving on the board OR

2. Hiring a property management company to manage the affairs of the Community.

There obviously is some expense to either of these options. To avoid such “unnecessary” expenditures, the Board again requests that anyone interested in serving on the Board, to please get in touch with any board member. A strong board makes for a stong community and enhances our property values.

6. February Board Meeting

Since the annual meeting is scheduled for February it was decided that the annual meeting would also serve as the monthly meeting for Feb.

Meeting adjourned at 7:50 p.m.

MAR CHERI COMMUNITY CLUB

Board of Directors’ Meeting – December 2, 2014

In attendance were: Steve Freeborn, Mark Moberg, Kay Gordon, Mark Bunger and Margo Rolf.

Sad News Announced

The board was made aware of the deaths of two long-time residents of the Mar Cheri Community. Olivia Bruce, wife of Clare Bruce, passed away October 26^th . Marvin Moore died on November 21^st. Both were residents of 2^nd Place SW. The members of the Board extend our deepest sympathy on behalf of the Mar Cheri Community to the Bruce and Moore Families.

Minutes Signed

Minutes from the October and November 2014 meetings, which had been previously approved, were signed by the president of the board and recorded.

Update on the Mitigation of the Area West of the Pool Parking Area

Steve Freeborn has contacted City Hall and has made multiple inquiries. He has also gone to City Hall to pursue a resolution on the matter of the cut trees in the area west of the pool parking lot. Chris Freel was not available, and Steve was told that there was nothing new to report. We have been ready to remediate but have been prohibited from doing so. The city has not responded.

Treasurer’s Report – November and December 2014 by Leigh Strinsky, Treasurer

Current Balances

Savings $19,672 – of which $10,000 is earmarked for Pool resurfacing fund

Checking $ 6,654

We still have 4 homeowners who have not paid their dues. Reminders have been sent. We will need to file liens on these properties if payment is not received by year end. We shouldreceive the past due payment of $3,867 from the home that is now up for sale on 1^st Avenue by the end of the year.

Mid-October – December

Accountant Fees – Tax Prep $ 275

Q-3 Payroll Taxes $2,844

Utilities (PSE, Waste Management) $ 641

Maintenance – Mark Bunger

There is nothing new to report about the pool area. Drainage issues remain and a more permanent solution is necessary.

New mailboxes have been installed on 2^nd Avenue. These were to replace the ones that had been vandalized.

Architecture – Kay Gordon

Please continue to keep trees and shrubbery cut back. Neighbors should not have to ask you to cut the excessive growth that blocks views and does not follow the covenants, rules and regulations.

Seeking Candidates

As the annual meeting of Mar Cheri Community Club approaches, we are seeking candidates

for positions on the board. Please contact Steve Freeborn to have your named placed on the ballots. The probable date for the annual meeting is February 25, 2015. Location and exact date and time will be announced in the January minutes.

Next Board Meeting

The next Board meeting will be on January 6, 2015 at 7:00 pm at the home of Steve Freeborn.

The meeting was adjourned at 7:55 pm.

 

 

 

 

 

 

MAR CHERI COMMUNITY CLUB

Meeting Minutes: Tuesday, November 11 , 20 14

In Attendance: Stephen Freeborn, Mark Moberg, Kay Gordon
Absent: Mark Bunger, Margo Rolf, Leigh Strinsky

The meeting was held at the home of Stephen Freeborn and commenced at 7:05 p.m.

Due to the limited turn out, no Board action was taken, however, issues were still raised and discussed.

Tree Issue Adjacent To Pool: Steve reported that , as of this time, the community is still waiting to hear from the City regarding the Community’s proposed re-planting and clean up. The written proposal was presented to the City during the first week in October. We have yet to hear back from the City. Steve has called and left messages. The concern is, with the weather getting cold, it may not be until next Spring that clean up and re-planting can take place. Steve will continue to reach out to the City.

Board Positions: The annual meeting is coming up quickly (February). A major issue for the annual meeting is the election of the new slate of officers. Anyone who has any interest in serving on the Board is asked to contact one of the current board members.

Holiday Social: A holiday social has generally been held during the weeks leading up to Christmas . Anyone interested in hosting this gala extravaganza is asked to contact any one of the board members so that information can be timely circulated. The HOA is willing to help cover costs for anyone willing to host the event.

Treasurer’s Report: Leigh was unable to attend the meeting and no report was available. An updated report will be presented at the next board meeting.

Architectural Committee Report: Kay reports that there has been an issue with a tree in the neighborhood. Kay reports that she has personally visited with the homeowner and seen the subject tree. Because of the tree’s location, and the fact that it does not obstruct any view, or present a violation of the CC&Rs, it has been determined that no action can be taken by the HOA Board.

Pool / Maintenance Report: As Mark was absent, no report was presented. An updated report will be presented at the next Board Meeting .

Other Issues: The new lock mail boxes were installed in the top area of the community, coming in of Dash Point Road. They look very attractive. As Kay is one of the mail box owners,
she reports that they appear much more sturdy than the last ones and hope that they will deter future theft. She also reports that they are much more spacious.

With no other matters to discuss, the meeting was adjourned at 7:40 p.m.

NEXT MEETING: DATE: Tuesday, December 2,2014 TIME: 7:00 p.m. LOCATION: The home of Steve Freeborn
As with any board meeting, these are open to the community and any member wishing to attend, is welcome to do so.

Written by Steve Freeborn