Board of Directors’ Meeting – September 15, 2014 Mar Cheri Community Club

In attendance were Steve Freeborn, Kay Gordon, Mark Bunger, Don Deighton and Margo Rolf.

Minutes from the August 2014 meeting, which had been approved, were signed by the president of the board.

Meeting with Ben Alexander,

On Wednesday September 10, 2014 a meeting was held with biologist, Ben Alexander, of Sound Native Plants, some board members and a few members of the community. Leigh Strinsky helped in locating and hiring a qualified biologist as we were directed to do so by the City of Federal Way. The meeting took place at the swimming pool parking lot. Present, besides Mr. Alexander, were Kay Gordon, Don Deighton, Leigh Strinsky, Margo Rolf, and Vicki and Greg Bengeult. Mr. Alexander has been hired to do a study and evaluation of the land west of the parking lot and to prepare a report in which he will propose measures to restore the area in which trees were removed from Mar Cheri property and the adjacent property belonging to Mr. Sorenson. The report will be submitted to the board within approximately two to three weeks. Steve will ask Leigh to make sure it is circulated among the board members. Once reviewed, the report will then be submitted for approval by Federal Way.

Treasurer – Leigh Strinsky

Current Balances:

Savings $19,671 – of which $10,000 is earmarked for Pool resurfacing fund

Checking $13,035

We still have 5 homeowners who have not paid their dues. One of these homes is in foreclosure, and we will receive full payment plus back dues since 2008 as soon as it sells.

August – Early September transactions:

Income

$ 200 Assessments

$ 230 Associate Members

$ 30 Swim Lessons

$ 162.75 Pool Guest Fees

Expenditures

$1227 Utilities

$5020 Lifeguards & Cleaners

$ 438 Arborist evaluation of fir trees by pool

$ 823 Supplies for pool + drainage issue

$ 140 Office supplies for directory & postage & printing

$1518 2^nd half of annual property taxes

$ 100 Homeowner work credits

Recreation Report – Nancy Krueger

Nancy submitted the following written report.

The summer swim season ended on September 1^st, a lovely day for swimming. A local Boy Scout troop had their summer pool party on August 23^rd. The two lifeguards told me that everyone seemed to have a good time.

The Public Health Inspector came to review the pool for the second time this summer and we passed the inspection. She checked the water chemistry, the cleanliness of the pool and dressing rooms and the certification of our lifeguards. We passed both summer inspections.

Maintenance – Mark Bunger

Mark reported that he had found a handle for the broken one for the pool cover.

We still need to find a solution for the drainage issues in the playground and parking areas. Any work will require permits.

Don Deighton brought up the subject of the blue spruce ( thought to be firs) trees by the pool house again. As we did not have a copy of the arborist’s report readily available, we tabled that discussion until sometime in the future.

Architecture – Kay Gordon

Kay has been investigating some of the sites the city provides to answer homeowner’s questions about an array of important topics. She will compile a list of some of these that will be provided to residents along with the minutes of a future board meeting and may also be posted on our website.

A coyote has recently been spotted on more than one occasion in our neighborhood. It is important not to feed dogs and cats outside or on your decks. Do not leave your small animals or children outside unattended. Also be aware that anyone can contact the Animal Services of Federal Way by calling 253-835-7387.

Kay also reported that one untagged vehicle that had been parked long-term on the street was moved to the resident’s driveway.

Please Watch Our Neighborhood

Mark Bunger added that the mailboxes that were recently vandalized will be replaced with a security cluster paid for by those individual homeowners. There are a few extra boxes, if anyone is interested. Please contact Mark. A white box truck with graffiti on the outside was noticed at the time of the vandalism. Please keep a watch on our neighborhood.

Secretary – Margo Rolf

Phone/Address directories have been distributed to residents in the neighborhood. They will also be mailed to the absentee owners. Margo will ask renters if they would like to be included in an addendum that could be distributed with future minutes. If there are any other additions or corrections, please email Margo Rolf at margorolf@aol.com so they may be included in any addendum.

Resignation

Nancy Krueger has submitted her resignation from the Board and also from the Recreation Committee effective September 10, 2014.

The Board wishes to thank Nancy for her dedication and service to the Board and to the Mar Cheri Community.

If anyone is interested in being the Recreation Chairperson for next year, please contact any member of the board.

Next Meeting

The next board meeting will be held on October 21 at 7:00 at the Pool House. Change of venue may occur depending on weather.

Respectfully submitted,

Margo Rolf, Secretary

 

 

 

 

Board of Directors’ Meeting – August 12, 2014 Mar Cheri Community Club

In attendance were Steve Freeborn, Mark Moberg, Nancy Krueger, Mark Bunger, and Margo Rolf.

Minutes from the July 2014 meeting were approved and signed by the president of the board.

Old Business

The subject of the cutting of the trees west of the parking lot and the possible consequences of the cutting were the beginning topics.

Steve reported that he had had communications with the city of Federal Way and that he thought that it does not appear that we will be fined. Chris Freel is now the Federal Way contact person. Steve said that a biologist would be hired to give a replanting program forthe area. Both Nancy and Steve had called the city about resolving the tree matter. Steve had received a reply that afternoon. Leigh Strinsky will be consulted for the name of a biologist. Perhaps three names will be considered. Steve will let board members know when the biologist will come to assess the replanting area so that anyone, wishing to do so and is able, may attend.

In relation to the above topic, Nancy Krueger submitted the following written report:

Mar Cheri Meeting with City and WA Fish and Wildlife

July 16, 2014 2pm Pool parking lot

In attendance:

Kay Gordon, Margo Rolf, Joanne Avaiusini, Nancy Krueger, James Rolf, Chris Freel, FW Code Compliance Officer, Larry Fisher, WA Department  Of Fish and Wildlife Area Habitat Biologist, Isaac Conlen, FW Community Development Officer

Larry Fisher began by giving his assessment of the stream. It is a “natural feature” and a “jurisdictional watercourse.” A minor stream requires a 50-foot set back and a major stream requires a 100-foot setback. The Mar Cheri stream is a major stream. The property is considered critical habitat because it lies on a slope and has a natural stream running through it. The recent removal of trees was in violation of city and state code because we had no permit to cut any of the trees.

Mr. Fisher said that all of the land west of the parking area is in violation of State and City laws due to the recent clear cutting without permits. Larry Fisher stated that no further tree cutting or clearing can proceed until the city gives us permission to do so. It is within the city’s authority to approve plans to remedy the violation. He said that when we get the go ahead from the city we do not need a permit to clear the wood, unless we plan to build a bridge to bring in machinery for clearing. If it is cleared using chainsaws and hand carried out, no formal permit is needed.

Larry Fisher suggested hiring a landscape architect to give us a good plan for re-vegetating the area. Larry’s ideas for plants that naturally grow along stream bank include conifers, alders, sword fern, salmonberry and elderberry. He left two brochures about re-vegetation that are published by the State and thought that we should also check the state Fish and Wildlife website to learn more.

Chris Freel will be our contact person with the City.

Respectfully submitted,

Nancy Krueger

Recreation – Nancy Krueger

Nancy submitted the following written report:

Our swimmers are enjoying the pool this summer. We have busy swim lessons Monday through Thursday, and our afternoon open swim times are hopping. Lea Freeborn and Sabrina Bonaci finish lessons this week for the summer. We have one private party scheduled for August 23 when an associate member hosts his Boy Scout troop for a swim and barbeque.

We are waiting to hear from the City as to the next step in remedying the illegal tree cutting that took place next to the stream and the pool parking area. The Washington State Fish and Wildlife representative said that the tree clearing west of the parking lot is in violation of the “critical lands” regulations. Mar Cheri and Mr. Sorenson, the owner of the property where most of trees were downed, cannot remove slash or wood until we hear from the city. The City and the Washington State Fish and Wildlife representatives have both told us that there could possibly be fines and a plan will be worked out to re-vegetate the stream banks. The area will remain a sad eyesore until we hear from the City.

As Recreation Chairperson, I plan to help work with the City and then help in the replanting that is required. We are working with Isaac Conlen and Chris Freel, Code Enforcementn with the City of Federal Way.

Respectfully submitted,

Nancy Krueger

Nancy reported to the board that she was looking for two more life-guards for the above mentioned Boy Scout Swim Party in order to comply with our safety rules.

Treasurer – Leigh Strinsky

Current balances

Savings $19,670 – of which $10,000 is earmarked for Pool resurfacing fund

Checking $18,650

We still have 5 homeowners who have not paid their dues and 1 homeowner who has made a partial payment.

July – Early August Transactions

Income

$ 678 Assessments

$ 450 Associate Members

$1,320 Swim Lessons

$ 95 Pool Guest Fees

Expenditures

$1,052 Utilities

$4,525 Lifeguards & Cleaners

$2,200 Tree Service

$1,347 Supplies for pool + drainage issue

Architecture – Kay Gordon

Kay sent an email with regrets that she was unable to attend this meeting. However, she stated that she had been doing some research and had been studying the Federal Way Rev. Code with regards to the grounds and plantings . The Board agreed to wait until she was present for that discussion.

There is a deck under construction/repair that is in need of approval. We are waiting for plans to be submitted by the homeowner.

Maintenance – Mark Bunger

Mark stated that a new crank handle for the pool cover was needed. He also reported that he and James Rolf will help in the clean-up of the cut trees when the city gives approval.

Steve asked Mark about possible improved lighting at the entrance into the community. The present lights are very old. It was agreed to consult with the adjacent neighbors to see if brighter lights would be acceptable. Mark lives next to the entrance, and he said it would be okay with him. He will check with other neighbors for their approval.

Secretary – Margo Rolf

The community directory is ready for press.

Next Board Meeting

The next Board of Directors’ meeting will be held on Monday, Sept. 15^th at 7:00 pm.

Respectfully submitted,

Margo Rolf, Secretary

Board of Directors’ Meeting – July 15, 2014 Mar Cheri Community Club

In attendance were Steve Freeborn, Mark Moberg, Kay Gordon, Nancy Krueger, Mark Bunger, and Margo Rolf

Minutes from the June 2014 meeting were approved and signed by the president of the board.

Treasurer’s Report

Leigh Strinsky submitted a written treasurer’s report as follows:

Current Balances

Savings $19,670 – of which $10,000 is earmarked for Pool Resurfacing Fund

Checking $21,897

We have received our property tax assessment for 2015, and there is no change in assessed value of the pool property. It remains valued at $170,100. We still have 6 homeowners who have not paid their dues and 2 homeowners who have made partial payments. Reminder notices will go out this week.

June – Early July transactions:

Income

$ 683 Assessments

$2,698 Associate Members

$1,587 Swim Lessons

$ 311 Pool Guest Fees

Expenditures

$2,547 Insurance

$1,106 Puget Sound Energy

$3,001 Lifeguards & Cleaners

$2,200 Tree Service

$ 458 Supplies for pool + pest control

$ 450 Homeowner work credit

Recreation – Nancy Krueger

Nancy Krueger was present and spoke of issues involving the pool area, but she also submitted the following written report:

Swim lessons are in full swing. We are in the second week of the second session. Leah Freeborn and Sabrina Bonaci teach from 8:30am to 11:00am four days a week in sessions of eight lessons. Most of the students are non-members. Parents are quite happy with the lessons and several families have enrolled their students up for the rest of the season.

We have seven lifeguards and two substitute guards. They earn $11.50/hour.

I am very happy with their work.

About thirty people enjoyed the Fourth of July picnic at the playground with their families.

Mark Bunger and James Rolf continue to handle the pool maintenance which saves Mar Cheri about $1,500 each summer, since we do not have to hire a pool maintenance company to clean once a week. Many thanks go to our maintenance chairperson, Mark, and his assistant, James, who handle this for us weekly. Another maintenance issue has been rat eradication. Mark and James voluntarily climbed into the attic and cleaned out the rats’ nesting in an old vent pipe. This was a nasty job, which they handled with good humor and bravery. Now, our pest control company, Alpha Ecological, has recommended that we spray the attic of the pool house to clean the area of rat smell. This would cost $125, and I recommend that we hire them to do this.

We also received an arborist report from Knotty Woods Trees in Orting stating that the Spruce trees at the pool should be pruned by an arborist, one tree removed because it’s too close to the building and that we should not top any of them since they were topped about 15 years ago, and it would not be good for them. We will not remove the one tree until we have a permit from the City, since it is within 100 feet of the stream.

Respectfully submitted,

Nancy Krueger

It was agreed that we hire Alpha Ecological to spray the attic once the vents are repaired. Hopefully, that repair will help close off the area from future rat infestation.

Architecture – Kay Gordon

There was one request for approval to replace the fence and a small sun deck in the side yard of one residence. Both the fence and deck have rotting wood and most will need to be replaced. The project will result in the same size, location and color. Project was given a “green light.”

There has been a truck parked in the cul-de-sac off 2^nd Ave. for some time. It does not have current tags and is in violation of the HOA’s Covenants, Rules and Regulations. Kay has learned who the owner is and will proceed with notification that the vehicle must be moved.

Maintenance – Mark Bunger

Nancy’s report touched upon many of the issues of the pool area maintenance.

In relation to the cutting of trees west of the Mar Cheri Parking Lot and on the adjoining Sorenson property, there was a meeting with a Federal Way official last week. There was a stop work order on the clean-up until an additional meeting with the Fish and Wildlife folks from the state. The meeting is to take place on Wednesday, July 16^th, 2014 at 2:00pm. It has been learned that the small stream is a protected area and before work is done within 100 ft of the stream, permits must be acquired. Margo Rolf asked about possible grandfathering rights since the pool area was established decades ago. Steve Freeborn said that we would know after talking with the Fish and Wildlife people.

Mark said that as far as possible additional work on trying to mitigate water and drainage issues of the property is concerned, he suggested the hiring of a professional who would acquire proper permits.

Mark also added that the spray for the attic area of the pool house was a medical grade disinfectant. He reiterated that the work is not finished.

Long-time Neighbors Leaving Our Neighborhood

Steve announced that Arnie and Jane Rusten are permanently leaving Mar Cheri. The board wishes to thank them. They have been long-time friends of the community. We will miss them, and we wish them good luck in the future.

The meeting was adjourned. The next meeting will be Aug. 12 at 7:00 PM

Respectfully submitted,

Margo Rolf, Secretary

Board of Directors’ Meeting – June 17, 2014 Mar Cheri Community Club

In attendance were Steve Freeborn, Mark Moberg, Leigh Strinsky, Kay Gordon, Nancy Krueger, Mark Bunger, Margo Rolf and Don Deighton.

Minutes from the May 2014 meeting were approved and signed by the president of the board.

The meeting opened with a statement that the insurance was in good standing and that Steve has a copy of the policy.

Tree Removal at the Pool Area

Steve introduced the discussion about trees west of the pool parking lot that are diseased, leaning, and, thus, a liability, and/or non-compliant with the covenants, rules and by-laws. He asked Don Deighton to present a report including multiple pictures of the neighborhood and of the Sound from many different perspectives in Mar Cheri and to give his opinion of what should be done. This also included a discussion about some trees that are on the adjoining property of Neil Sorenson west of the Mar Cheri Pool area and are also blocking the views of some residents of Mar Cheri. Most of the trees are alders or cottonwoods. Don recommended that we should proceed immediately to cut the trees. Don and Kay had met on June 14^th to review the pictures and a contract that he and Steve had signed with Mr. Sorenson and to walk the location of the grove of trees bordering the stream along the parking lot and sport court. Kay stated that the trees had been marked by the arborist. All board members present walked this location during the board meeting. Steve had already gotten rough estimates from Treebulance Tree Service, a fully licensed and bonded tree removal company. Don Deighton stated in our meeting that he would underwrite the expense of the work done on Neil Sorenson’s property. Anyone who benefits from Don’s efforts and wishing to assist him monetarily in this underwriting should contact him directly. It was stated that the removal of these trees would help in restoring some of the views for Mar Cheri. Nancy Krueger objected to the order of what was happening, bringing to the attention of the board and Don that she still had an appointment with an arborist whom she had contacted as directed by the board at the May 2014 meeting. She emphasized that she did not want the woods to go away. It was pointed out that the Board should lead by example in maintaining trees in acceptable heights and in healthy and safe conditions. Steve added from a legal point of view that the court had said that we cannot selectively enforce the covenants. We all need to follow them. There is also a window of opportunity to deal with the Sorenson trees as he is putting that property up for sale.

The following motion was made by Mark Bunger and seconded by Leigh.

“to approve removal of trees on the Mar Cheri Pool property on the west side of the parking lot that are diseased or that are non-compliant with the covenants, restrictions and by-laws of Mar Cheri Community Club, cost of which is not to exceed $2,200.”

There was a call for questions and for a vote.

The motion passed with one abstention. One member was not present at the time of the vote.

Treasurer’s Report – Leigh Strinsky

Current Balances

Savings $19,670 – of which $10,000 is earmarked for Pool resurfacing fund

Checking $25,394

Mar Cheri treasurer accounting is being transitioned over to Quickbooks with Assisted Payroll. This will make it easier for us to manage our payroll reports that are due quarterly.

Leigh will continue to file the Washington Workman’s Compensation returns.

Assessment payments for 60 homes have been received so far. If you have not, please send it in and save us the cost of postage and copies for additional reminders.

May Transactions:

Income

$8,390 Assessments

$1,925 Associate Members

Expenditures

$ 20 Office Supplies

$278 Puget Sound Energy

$577 King County Public Health Department

$301 Watermill, Inc.

$600 Equipment and supplies for pool start-up

$ 50 Homeowner work credit

Architecture – Kay Gordon

Leigh Strinsky is having a new roof put on her home. That poses no problem.

Maintenance – Mark Bunger

Mark reported that the grant for water and drainage solutions that he had investigated had not been feasible.

However, Mark reported that drainage issues around the pool, parking lot, and playground area are being dealt with. He has been helped by James. Together they have sought solutions for the marshy areas by installing some drainage pipes, gravel and a grate, cleaning out some drains and seeking solutions for this long-existing problem. He added that Arnie Ruston had been helpful in consulting about what had been done in the past, and Don Deighton has contributed with labor. Mark reiterates that the work on the drainage this year is still a temporary fix.

Mark said that a detailed plan should be made to deal with those problems with long-term solutions, and the board should then budget proper funding. Many other smaller projects have been done dealing with general maintenance and safety and that is an ongoing process.

Recreation – Nancy Krueger

New umbrellas have been purchased for the pool area. And flowers have been planted. Swim classes begin Monday, June 23.

Nancy wants to announce the following:

MAR CHERI PICNIC 4^TH OF JULY

There will be a picnic at the pool area on the Fourth of July

Time 4:00 PM.

Please bring a salad or a dessert.

We will grill hot dogs and hamburgers.

Secretary’s Report – Margo Rolf

Margo is presently working on a new directory (phone, address, email, children’s names ) for Mar Cheri Community Club. She will include those changes noted with the return of assessment checks. If you have not sent in corrections, please do so immediately.

Email: margorolf@aol.com
Mail: Margo Rolf, 29610 2^nd Pl SW, Federal Way, WA 98023,
Phone: 253-941-0172

The next meeting will be at 7:00 PM on Tuesday July 15 at the pool.

Respectively submitted,

Margo Rolf, Secretary

Board of Director’s Meeting – May 6, 2014 Mar Cheri Community Club

In attendance were Steve Freeborn, Pete Keller, Kay Gordon, Mark Bunger, Nancy Krueger, Margo Rolf and Don Deighton.

Minutes from the April 2014 meeting that had been previously approved were signed by the president of the board.

Discussion began with the announcement that Leigh Strinsky has volunteered to fill the vacant position of treasurer. In her absence from this meeting, Pete Keller continued to act as treasurer and provided a report to the board. It was also announced that Leigh will order materials and computer programs necessary for the treasurer position.

Vice-President Mark Moberg has not been able to attend meetings due to a conflict in schedule. The board voted to change the monthly meeting date to accommodate his schedule. Beginning in June, board meetings will be held the third Tuesday of each month. The next meeting will be June 17^th.

Treasurer’s Report – Pete Keller

Current Balances

Savings $19,670

Checking $18,670

Including $10,000 Pool Resurfacing Fund

Assessment payments for 44 homes have been received so far. Reminder notices have been sent this week to members with unpaid assessments. The first half of our property taxes and our business license renewal have been paid. Phone and trash service at the pool will be started this month.

Principle April Transactions:

Income

$11,375

Expenditures

$ 76 Alpha Ecological (pest control)

$ 248 Puget Sound Energy

$1,518 Property Tax

A note about the sale of a Mar Cheri property:

The residence at 29608 2^nd Avenue is under contract to close on June 15.

Architecture –Kay Gordon

Don Deighton reported for the Architecture Committee. The problem of cars without current tags being parked on the streets has been addressed and progress has been made. Also upon request, one resident agreed to trim shrubbery.

The board wishes to bring to our attention the following:

It is Spring. Trees, shrubbery and other vegetation have grown for another year.

As lush, verdant, and beautiful as the trees/shrubbery may be, you still need to appraise your own yard with the same critical eye that you do your neighbors’ yards. Are your trees and shrubbery growing into their yards? Are they growing to heights/widths that infringe upon their right to a view? If they have been trimmed in the past, it is quite possible that they need to be trimmed again.

Talk to your neighbors and tell them your concerns and ask them if your plantings are blocking their rightful view. Friendly discussions between and among neighbors are a good start to a healthy neighborhood. Be proactive on the maintenance of your own property. We need to protect property values, and we need to be good neighbors. Remember our covenants.

In connection with this subject, there was a lengthy discussion about some specific trees, those spruce trees at the pool. This was a continuation of a discussion from the April board meeting. It is the opinion of Don Deighton that the trees are too tall and need to be cut or cut back and that they may be an issue to the new owners of 29608 2^nd Avenue. He had done some research and brought pictures to the meeting. It was also pointed out that the roots of those trees had been an issue with the pool plumbing which had cost a considerable amount to repair. He has talked to some other residents in his concern for the general welfare of our community and the present and future property values.

Nancy Krueger expressed her opinion that the trees were not a problem and that they should not be cut down. Don Deighton said that at the 29608 2^nd Avenue property there was a possible view of the Olympics and the Sound that is being obstructed. Margo Rolf looked at the pictures and observed that the trees on that particular property were also blocking whatever view there might be and that unless that property’s trees, which give some privacy from the pool and from the adjacent property, were cut they still would not have a view. The new owners have not closed yet on the property and no opinion from them was heard. On site visitation was suggested.

There was further detailed discussion and in the end there was a consensus that perhaps there was a way to save the trees. It was decided to have an arborist come to evaluate the trees and to recommend action, if necessary. Nancy is going to obtain an arborist. Nancy will inform Kay of the date, and she will try to be present for that consultation.

Maintenance – Mark Bunger

Steve Freeborn gave Mark an application for funding to help correct water problems in residential areas in King County. We have had a long–time issue with excessive water in the area around the swimming pool and swim clubhouse. It is a marshy area and though there have been some attempts to remedy the water issue in the past, it remains problematic for the association. It was noted that Adam Scholze had called and reported that it was far too wet to take his mowing equipment into the area to mow at this time. Mark will study the information regarding possible grant money and make an application for funds.

Pool clean-up will occur May 10^th and May 17^th from 9:00am to 12:00 pm. Remember that 3 hours of your time will earn you a $50 refund of your dues. Margo Rolf added that a flyer announcing the clean-up days was included with the hard copy of last month’s minutes sent to residents and that she had asked Vicki to send the same information via email and post on the website.

Recreation – Nancy Krueger

Nancy announced that Leah Freeborn has agreed to teach swimming classes. We now have two teachers. So we will be offering swimming classes again this year. We also have 5 lifeguards committed to our summer program, and we are still looking for one more. It was noted that it has been a money-making program for the association.

So far we have two associate members signed up for the summer.

The pool will open Memorial Day Weekend beginning on May 24^th.

The meeting was adjourned. The next meeting will be June 17^th.

Respectively submitted,

Margo Rolf, Secretary

In attendance were Steve Freeborn, Pete Keller, Mark Bunger, Kay Gordon, Nancy Krueger, Margo Rolf and Don Deighton

 Minutes of the February meeting were approved.

Steve Freeborn advised the board that King Co. was offering some grants up to $10,000 to communities to help deal with surface drainage problems. As we have had a long-time issue with water drainage in the area around the swimming pool, Steve said that he would try to obtain an application for a possible grant and will have a draft by the next Board meeting.

 Treasurer’s Report – Pete Keller

 We are presently seeking a person in the community who will be willing to serve as treasurer of Mar Cheri Community Club. This is an urgent request as Pete Keller is not able to continue in that capacity. If no one is willing to volunteer for this position, it is possible that an outside management firm or accounting firm may have to be hired at a considerable expense to do this work. A possible increase in homeowners’ dues will be forthcoming to cover that position. Pete Keller was kind enough to continue helping with finances this month.

 Current Balances
Savings $19,667
Checking $ 8,750

 Including $10,000 for the Pool Resurfacing Fund

 State employment tax reports have been submitted for 1^st quarter 2014. Assessment payments for 19 homes have been received so far. If you have not, please send it in, and save us the cost of postage and copies for additional reminders.

 Principle February and March Transactions

 Income $8390 Homeowners’ Assessments
Expenditures $ 71 Lakehaven Utility District

$ 477 Puget Sound Energy

 Home in Foreclosure
It was announced that there will be a foreclosure on a house in the Mar Cheri Community . Steve Freeborn will investigate for more details.

 Architecture – Kay Gordon

Cars parked in street causing concern
If at all possible, all cars should be parked in driveways and garages. Households having several cars, and, thus, parking some in the street are causing some safety issues, especially where the school bus has to turn around. Cars that are not properly tagged or vehicles that are left for long periods of time in the street can be reported to the Federal Way Police.

 Trees at the Pool
Don Deighton spoke before the board and expressed his long-term concern of maintaining the value of property within our community. He has volunteered a great deal of time and service through the years to Mar Cheri and wanted to express his concern about trees and shrubbery blocking views and, thus, devaluing the properties. Don spoke of some trees near the pool house and expressed that in his opinion these trees should be cut back before the 19^th of April so that we could take advantage of the free Federal Way tree dump. He wanted to cut the trees to the level of the structure, taking them down at least eight feet. Part of his rational for reducing the size was to show the community that we want everyone to be in compliance with the “tree and shrubbery rule” of not blocking views and that it would make our job easier if we lead by example. He spoke of how different the neighborhood looks from even five years ago and how it will look in five years. It was reiterated that people buy for the view and that the covenants govern the protection of that view.

 Nancy objected to cutting/reducing those trees as it would weaken the trees, it would cause the trees to spread if they were cut back, the trees offer shade in the depths of summer and the trees help absorb some of the excess water in that area. And in the past we have acted upon complaint. So far no one has complained that they block a view.

 It was concluded that Don would assist in obtaining pictures to give us a perspective on the view of residents and a better look at the trees to see if there are current or potential problems. The Board will continue discussion on the subject.

 Maintenance –Mark Bunger
Mark reports that the pool needs to be cleaned. As opening day nears, he will take a sample of the water to be tested to determine what actions are needed.

Mark also announced:

 Clean-up Days will be May 10^th and May 17^th from 9:00am to 12:00pm.

Opening days will be over the Memorial Day holiday, Saturday, May 24^th – Monday, May 26^th.

 Mark will make a list of work that needs to be done to get the pool area ready.

Mark brought up the water issue in greater detail. There has been one bid of $800 to evaluate the problem and then give us a bid on the cost of the work. The projected cost of a major drainage correction could be prohibitive. It is known that the water level there is the same as the aquifer. He spoke of our pursing grant money.

A possible project done by ourselves that could help alleviate the water situation was suggested. Such a project might be within our means. We will continue to explore solutions for this problem.

 Recreation – Nancy Krueger

Swimming Lessons have been a source of income. However, the lead swim teacher is not returning. We now have one swim teacher returning. Another name was suggested and a contact will be made. We will have to raise fees for the classes a little. Some lifeguards are returning and some are not. It was decided that we will get the lifeguards to help with testing/adding chemicals this year.

Raising Dues
The final discussion involved possibly raising dues to cover greater expenses since the pool and equipment are getting older and though there are reserves toward resurfacing, we will need reserves for other large repairs. Prices continue to rise. This coincided with the discussion of the possible need for a “paid” treasurer.

Please consider volunteering for the treasurer position. We are a community of 69 households with 6 people on the board. We need one more volunteer.

The meeting adjourned at 8:26. Next Board Meeting will be May 6 at 7:00.

Respectfully submitted,
Margo Rolf

In Attendance: Steve Freeborn, Arnie Rusten, Pete Keller, Mark Bunger, Vicki Bengeult, Kay Gordon

Minutes of the January meeting were approved.

Nominations

Margo Rolf and Mark Moberg have agreed to be on the ballot for secretary and vice president, but we still need a treasurer. Don Deighton has volunteered to be on the committee to review the bylaws. We still need more volunteers. Please consider volunteering just a little bit of time each month to keep our association alive and well.

Treasurer’s Report – Pete Keller

Materials for audit were dropped off to the audit committee. Assessments bills are normally mailed in March.

Current Balances

Maintenance and Recreation — Mark Bunger

Nothing to report.

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The meeting adjourned at 7:40 pm and the Annual Meeting will be held at on Thursday, February 27 at 7pm.

Respectfully submitted, Vicki Bengeult

 In Attendance: Steve Freeborn, Arnie Rusten, Pete Keller, Mark Bunger, Vicki Bengeult, Kay Gordon, Nancy Krueger

Minutes of the December meeting were approved.

Mailbox Break-ins

Two clusters of mailboxes were forcibly broken into. Steve filed a police report, and the police said not to hesitate to call if we see suspicious activity. We will try to get a police presentation on the Block Watch program at the Annual Meeting on Thursday, February 27^th.

Nominations

The search is still on for three open board positions, but so far interest is low. PLEASE consider volunteering just a little bit of time each month to keep our association alive and well.

Treasurer’s Report – Pete Keller

The budget has been completed for approval. W-2’s have been submitted to the Social Security Administration for our employees (lifeguards).

Maintenance and Recreation — Mark Bunger and Nancy Krueger

The pool is looking good thanks to Mark’s periodic maintenance. The pest control people have also been keeping the bait stocked – and it keeps disappearing. There was good turn out for the holiday cookie party at Nancy’s.

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The meeting adjourned at 7:40 pm and the next meeting will be held at Arnie’s on Tuesday, February 4 at 7pm.

Respectfully submitted, Vicki Bengeult