Posted by: Rebecca Shields on Saturday, December 08, 2007 03:28 PM
VILLA MEETING
11/29/2007
Villa homeowners met on the evening of November 29. Following are the minutes of that meeting.
The meeting began with the introduction of the board members who are villa owners: Dennis Shields, and Russ Pieken. Next, all attendees were invited to introduce themselves and provide any background information they wished.
Financials were discussed and it was announced that we have a new bank – Peoples Bank at 133rd and Metcalf. Previously two banks were involved, and funds had to be moved each month to pay expenses. Peoples has provided a more efficient and economical method of operation, better rates and a free lock box. We have also secured a Line of Credit which has not yet been tapped for numerous projects detailed below. Because water costs increased tremendously this year on villa properties, it may be proposed that the dues be increased. All present seemed to be in agreement that our dues are already quite reasonable and such an increase might be quite acceptable in order to provide pleasing appearances in our villa neighborhoods. Possible increased dues would be in the range of $157 to $166.
Projects:
Islands – The entry island on Kenneth Road has been completely redone, and will provide “something green” at all times of the year. Bulbs have been planted for springtime beauty. All remaining islands will be remulched.
Common areas – it was discussed that our common areas need more attention, as in renewed irrigation. The areas around the Clubhouse for instance were very sad this past summer in appearance and embarrassing to have to share with our visitors.
Trees – Trimming and Removal. Numerous trees in our neighborhood are vastly overgrown and have taken over sidewalks in several areas. We have requested bids on having problem trees either removed or trimmed to a proper “canopy” above sidewalks.
The Falls – Have been repaired for the present. However refurbishing plans are underway. The base for the pump is in very sad shape and needs to be rebuilt. Until this takes place, the operation of the Falls will be precarious. The Falls will be turned off for three months beginning the first of December. During this time the repairs will take place. If we are going to be called Leawood Falls, the Falls must be working properly and without fail.
Fountains – the lights have been rebuilt and now meet code. Repairs took place this summer and the fountains have been operating smoothly.
Ponds – Chemtrol has been maintaining the ponds successfully since mid-summer and plans are underway for an economically sound method of dredging the small west end and improvement in that area where it is simply much too shallow.
Fence – 11 of 13 of the homeowners affected by the present dilapidated wooden fence on Kenneth Road are more than ready to pay their share of the expense to replace it with a black powder coated metal fence. The two “holdouts” will be revisited, and the Homeowners Association will be paying a partial amount of this expense. The appearance of this fence enhances the property value of all our homes just as do all the common areas.
Signage – improved and new signage is on the drawing board, but will be addressed down the road.
Irrigation – The system is old and in constant need of repair. Much time has been spent in numerous attempts to keep it working and updated.
Pool – Some new equipment will be ordered to replace shabby umbrellas, chairs, etc. There was a complaint by several homeowners of loud undesirable music being played during much of the day. This problem will be brought to the Board.
Drainage – there are three villas backing up to Kenneth Road which have drainage problems causing the sidewalk below to be constantly wet and covered in mud/silt. French drains are required to fix the problem and the homeowners have been contacted. Two are willing thus far to do what is necessary.
Lawn Maintenance Contract – bids are out for both the irrigation and lawn maintenance needs – it is preferred that one company get the contract for both services.
Snow Removal – A new contract has been signed with the present provider. They have done an excellent job, and the previous price has been maintained in the new contract.
Much appreciation was expressed that the last two mowings of the year were exchanged for one simultaneous mowing and vacuuming of leaves!!
One of our Leawood Falls homeowners has provided at no expense to the Association a new website for all homeowners. This will be an opportunity to post reports, minutes, and will be a great method of communication for all those with access to a computer. Efforts will be made to provide a hard copy to those without that service upon their request. You will need to log on and register to have use of the website which is – hoaintouch.com
New envelopes were offered to all attendees with the new post office address for payment of dues. That address is: Leawood Falls HOA, P. O. Box 27207, Overland Park, KS 66225
It was also announced that the tentative date for the Annual Meeting is January 17 at Deer Creek but those plans are not yet firm. The meeting then adjourned.