Message from the Board President
Dick Norris
The holiday season is upon us and there are many reasons to be thankful and to celebrate in our own way. Many Association activities are planned. Here is an update on recent Board actions.
The annual Budget Meeting was held October 26 in the San Tan Ballroom. Management, the Board of Directors and the Audit and Finance Committee began the 2017 budget preparation process back in June. The Board of Directors approved the 2017 budget at the annual Budget Meeting. There will be a homeowner dues increase of 2.9 percent or $38 per lot in 2017. Cottonwood annual dues will be $1,344. Palo Verde annual dues will be $1,344, plus annual road fee of $125, annual gate fee of $171 (please note – NO increase in the road or gate fees) equals a total of $1,640. I would like to thank our Controller Brian Shaw, Board Treasurer Woody Neiman, the Board of Directors and our managers who worked diligently to bring the 2017 Budget to completion.
The Board approved the appointment of several committee members. I want to welcome our new and returning members of our nine standing communities. They are an integral part of how our Association functions. They bring back homeowner issues of concern to their respective committees and make recommendations to the Board or management for consideration. Please note that approximately 90 percent of these recommendations are approved and implemented. The Board appreciates our homeowners who choose to volunteer their time and energy in service to our community.
The Facilities and Grounds Committee recommended four projects be considered for 2017. The Board adopted the following list of projects:
1. Upgrade the Cottonwood lounge restrooms and automate the Cottonwood lounge exit door to the patio.
2. Replace concrete at the Palo Verde tennis ramada with pavers.
3. Remodel the Cottonwood golf course tunnel restroom.
4. Add fountains to the five lakes in Cottonwood.
Once these projects have been researched and costs established, each project will be recommended to the Board and if approved, the funding allocated.
The Palo Verde patio is now complete with a new shade structure, furniture and fire pits; another enhancement to the Palo Verde dining experience.
The traditional kick-off to our holiday season happens on Friday, December 2 with the annual Christmas Golf Cart Parade and Show. Palo Verde golf cart lineup starts at 5:00 p.m. Outside Palo Verde, there will be free hot turkey soup, a no-host bar, Santa and his helpers with treats and golf cart judging with prizes presented to 1st, 2nd and 3rd place winners. The parade proceeds to Cottonwood beginning at 6:15 p.m. Once at Cottonwood, enjoy the annual Cottonwood Christmas Program in the San Tan Ballroom beginning at 6:30 p.m. Free cookies, hot coffee and hot chocolate with the Christmas Show starting at 7:00 p.m. Decorate your golf carts, bring the grandkids and participate in this festive event.
There may still be seats available at our popular New Year’s Eve celebrations. For tickets at Cottonwood, visit Homeowner Services and for Palo Verde call 480-895-1981 for reservations.
Finally, be sure and check The Flyer and In The Know for important dates and detailed information on Association activities. These are important communication resources to help you stay informed and involved in our community.
The Board of Directors is looking forward to another active and productive winter season for our homeowners. On behalf of the Board of Directors, I want to wish you all a very happy and safe holiday season.
Upcoming events
ANNUAL CHRISTMAS GOLF CART PARADE AND SHOW
All Sun Lakes homeowners and guests need to mark your calendars now for Friday, December 2, 2016 for our annual Christmas Golf Cart Parade and Show. As always, we’ll start off at Palo Verde at 5:00 p.m. for some free hot turkey soup and drinks. Santa and the whole gang will be on hand for that special Christmas picture and loaded down with candy and toys for the children. Maddy and friend will be there singing all your favorite Christmas songs and we will be judging all the beautifully decorated golf carts for gold cards. About 6:00 p.m. everyone will be escorted, by our wonderful Sun Lakes Sheriff’s Posse over to the Cottonwood San Tan Ballroom for our annual Christmas show. Hot coffee, cocoa, apple cider and cookies will be served. The free show will start at 7:00 p.m.
TAD WINTER CONCERT (3:00 p.m. shows only)
All the 7:00 p.m. shows are sold out for the January, February and March concerts.
The 3:00 p.m. tickets will go on sale as follows ($20 each – no series tickets):
On Tuesday, November 29 the following shows go on sale:
Tuesday, January 10 – Jimmy Buffett
Tuesday, January 17 – Rolling Stones
On Wednesday, December 14 the following shows go on sale:
Monday, February 6 – The Piano Men (Elton John and Billy Joel)
Tuesday, February 21 – Shania Twain and Tim McGraw
On Thursday, January 12 the following shows go on sale:
Wednesday, March 1 – Whitney Houston
Tuesday, March 14 – Creedence Clearwater Revival
Tuesday, March 28 – Doobie Brothers
I’VE GOT THE MUSIC IN ME – CINDY MILLER SHOW
Show date is Friday, January 20, 2017 in the San Tan Ballroom starting at 7:00 p.m. (doors open at 6:00 p.m). Tickets are $15. I’VE GOT THE MUSIC IN ME, is a musical/comedy. The audience is treated to songs that cover the full spectrum: country, ballads, show tunes, jazz, pop and light rock. There are no throw away songs or slow moments, it moves at an enjoyable pace and brings forth memories for all and will leave the audience feeling truly entertained. The show features Celine Dion, Madonna, Cher, Dolly Parton, Barbra Streisand, Whitney Houston and many more. Verbally and musically, the show is sprinkled with witticisms and comical parodies. And it’s all done in good taste. Tickets went on sale Tuesday, November 8.
DANCING WITH THE SUN LAKES ALL-STARS
Yes folks, we are now presenting the Dancing with the Sun Lakes All-Star Show on Saturday, February 11 and Sunday, February 12, 2017. The $20 tickets went on sale Tuesday, November 15. You will see the 1st place winners from past years competing against each other: Neda Mead, Joyce Recupido, Pat Koepp, Meena Harris, Wanda Johnson and Bill Jablonski. This will be spectacular. And as always, the unbelievable, talented Utah Ballroom Dance Company will also be performing each night. All the dancers will perform Saturday and Sunday and there will be a winner selected both nights.
LADIES COFFEE
The next Ladies Coffee will be Wednesday, December 7 in the San Tan Ballroom starting at 10:30 a.m. Cost will be $3. As always, we will be serving cookies, hot coffee or tea and iced tea. This month we have a Christmas fashion show; Lion City 2 will be there with some beautiful fashions for purchase including holiday wear and since a number of you have asked to have “One Small Miracle” back again, she’ll be there along with some interesting speakers and more, so bring your friends and neighbors for a good time!
2016-2017 Schedule: December 7, January 4, February 1, March 1 and April 5
FOURTH AVE STREET FAIR IN TUCSON
SOLD OUT!
FREE SKIN CANCER SCREENING
Dr. Joseph Allgeier of Radiant Complexions Dermatology Clinic will be conducting a free skin cancer screening in Cottonwood’s Phoenix Room (A9) from 8:00-11:00 a.m. on Wednesdays starting this fall. All Sun Lakers are invited. No appointment needed. The doctor will see you on a first come basis. Dr. Joe will be attending on December 14.
FREE EXERCISE EQUIPMENT CLASSES
Personal trainer Deryk Garmanian and his assistant/homeowner, Brenda Waara will be instructing, at no cost, a weight room and equipment orientation class at the Ladies Fitness Center from Noon-1:00 p.m. for both men and women (at this time) on Wednesday, December 21. Please sign up at Homeowner Services. If there are less than four students, Deryk will cancel the class and contact those who have signed up.
HEALTHWAVES LAB SCREENINGS AND TESTING
Healthwaves will be available for testing in Cottonwood’s Paint Room (A7) from 8:00 a.m.-noon on Monday, December 12.
ROVER’S REST STOP
Mark your calendars and tell all your friends that Rover’s Rest Stop’s meet and greet will be held on Saturday, December 10 (they will either be on the greenbelt in front of the Administrative Office or in the A6 Dance Room) from 9:00 a.m.-noon. Here’s another chance for you to bring home an adorable new family member. For more information call 480-600-2828 and remember a little dog will be there waiting desperately for a place to call home.
BICYCLE REPAIR IN COTTONWOOD
Wednesdays, Two-Wheel Jones Bicycle Repair will be in Cottonwood’s east parking lot next to the tennis courts from 8:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m.
UPCOMING TRAVELING TOURS through “Free Spirit”
To book any of these trips, call Free Spirit Vacation at 480-926-5547 or email [email protected]. Please remind them that you are a Cottonwood Palo Verde homeowner. Event information flyers can be found at Cottonwood’s Homeowner Services.
2016
12/2 – Desert Botanical Gardens and Mill Ave Fair
12/3 – Prescott Christmas Parade and Lunch
12/6-12/8 – Dickens Festival and It’s a Wonderful Life
12/9 – Zoo Lights, Dinner, Mormon Temple
12/10-12/11 – Tucson Holiday Girlfriend Getaway
12/12–12/16 – Spotlight on New York City Holiday
12/22–12/26 – Christmas in Nashville
2017
1/9 – Heard Museum and Pueblo Grand
1/12 – Steel Guitar Festival and MIM
1/19-1/21 – Road to California Quilt Show
1/21 – Domingo De Grazia and his Spanish Guitar Band
Board of Directors meeting minutes
Directors present: Roger Beagle, Bill Greer, Bud Jenssen, Anne Montgomery, Woody Neiman, Dick Norris and Mel Rasmussen
Also present: General Manager Steve Nolan
President Dick Norris called the meeting to order at 3:00 p.m. in the San Tan Ballroom. He stated that the meeting is being recorded for accuracy of the minutes.
Secretary Anne Montgomery gave a short biography of the military career of Retired Army Major Molly Westgate. Major Westgate led the Pledge of Allegiance and was then thanked for her military service and for her contributions to Cottonwood Palo Verde.
Roger Beagle made a motion, seconded by Bill Greer, to approve the September 28, 2016 Board Meeting Minutes.
The floor was opened to Board and homeowner comments; no comments. Motion carried unanimously.
PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE:
President Dick Norris reported that he would not have a President’s Message.
TREASURER’S REPORT:
Treasurer Woody Neiman presented the September 30, 2016 Financial Summary. A detailed report will be available for viewing in Homeowner Services.
Anne Montgomery made a motion, seconded by Mel Rasmussen, to approve the September 30, 2016 pre-audited Financial Report.
The floor was opened to Board and homeowner comments; no comments. Motion carried unanimously.
COMMITTEE REPORTS:
Architectural Compliance Committee:
The report was given of its meetings held on October 4 and 18. It was reported that 83 permits were approved and one denied. Next meeting is November 1 at 8:30 a.m. in the A-7 Paint Room.
The ACC recommended that the Board approve the following committee appointments: Barbara Forbes, Janet Kusmider, Dave Marcus, Kathleen Voves, Bill Townsend and an additional third two-year term (exception) for Donald Stevens.
The committee has no recommendations for management.
Audit and Finance Committee:
The report was given of its meeting held on October 12. Among the subjects discussed were the monthly financials and the budget process. Next meeting is November 9 at 2:00 p.m. in the Saguaro Room.
The Audit and Finance Committee recommended that the Board approve the following committee appointments: Wally Gammel, Daniel Hosman and Joe Igelmund.
The committee has no recommendations for management.
Complete minutes of this committee’s meetings are available for viewing at Homeowner Services.
Communications Committee:
The report was given of its meeting held on October 3. Among the subjects discussed were Communications Committee display for the HOA Community Day/Open House, website updates, six Ambassadors Program tours with 71 YTD, interviews for committee members and the new durable comment card boxes. Next meeting is November 7 at 8:30 a.m. in the Ceramics Room.
The Communications Committee recommended that the Board approve the following committee appointments: Grady Anderson, Karen Sproats, Marilyn Thoms, Phyllis Chase, Joan Orent, an additional third two-year term (exception) for Ricki O’Keeffe and Gay Zawatski, and the addition of Paul Rogers as an honorary non-voting member.
The committee has no recommendations for management.
Complete minutes of this committee’s meetings are available for viewing at Homeowner Services.
Election Committee:
Major Westgate was thanked for her military service. The report was given of its meetings held on October 5 and October 10. Outgoing members Meroe Haug and Ruthannis Rogers were thanked for their service to the Election Committee. Next meeting is November 2 at 1:30 p.m. in the Ceramics Room.
The Election Committee recommended that the Board approve the following committee appointments: Kit Carlton, Ed Schauble and Sharon KcKoy.
The committee has no recommendations for management.
Complete minutes of this committee’s meetings are available for viewing at Homeowner Services.
Facilities and Grounds Committee:
The report was given of its meeting on October 5. Among the subjects discussed were upcoming projects and the election of its committee members.
Next meeting is November 2 at 9:00 a.m. in the Saguaro Room.
The Facilities and Grounds Committee recommended that the Board: 1) approve the appointments of John Mitchell and Kathy Skrei to the F and G Committee and 2) adopt the 2017 project list. The committee has no recommendations for management.
Complete minutes of this committee’s meetings are available for viewing at Homeowner Services.
Food and Beverage Committee:
The report was given of its meeting held on October 6. Among the subjects discussed at the meeting were outdoor furniture at Palo Verde, upcoming events and a thank you to Joe Ficek for his service to the F and B Committee. The audience was reminded to get their event tickets and reservations early. Next meeting is November 3 at 9:00 a.m.in the Saguaro Room.
The committee recommended that the Board approve the following committee appointments: Bill Carpenter, Bernie Kowalski, Michael Kraemer and Martin Neilson. The committee has no recommendations for management.
Complete minutes of this committee’s meetings are available for viewing at Homeowner Services.
Golf Committee:
The report was given of its meeting on October 6. It was announced that the driving range is open. The committee interviewed committee candidates. Next meeting is November 3 at 2:00 p.m. in the Ceramics Room.
The Golf Committee recommended that the Board approve the following committee appointments: Daniel Ellis, Jack Hill, Nancy Hermanson and Kathy Skrei. They have no recommendations for management.
Complete minutes of this committee’s meetings are available for viewing at Homeowner Services.
Roger Beagle verified that John Hill and Jack Hill who applied for the committee were the same person.
Recreation Committee:
The report was given of its meeting on October 3. Among the subjects discussed were replacement of the billiards pool cues, the CWPV Open House and the Community Fun Walk. Some of the November upcoming events were announced. Next meeting is November 7 at 1:30 p.m. in the Phoenix Room.
The Recreation Committee recommended that the Board approve the following committee appointments: Bobbi Forbes, Ken Stanley, Alan Waldmann and Carole Weiner. They have no recommendations for management.
Complete minutes of this committee’s meetings are available for viewing at Homeowner Services.
Safety, Security and Access Committee:
It was reported by Board Liaison Mel Rasmussen that this committee met on October 5. The purpose of the meeting was to conduct interviews for committee members and to choose from the interviewees. Next meeting is November 2 at 10:00 a.m. in the Saguaro Room.
The Safety, Security and Access Committee recommended that the Board approve the following committee appointments: Kathy Clear, Yvonne Orlich and Bill Wright as a special one year exception. The committee has no recommendations for management.
Complete minutes of this committee’s meetings are available for viewing at Homeowner Services.
Health and Wellness Center Task Force:
It was reported that HWCTF met October 11. Among the subjects discussed and activities were HWCTF communications subcommittee was thanked for their efforts at the Community Day; reports were given by the equipment subcommittee and the architect subcommittee. The committee has no recommendations for the Board. Next meeting is November 8 at 2:00 p.m. in the Phoenix Room, note change of venue due to voting day.
Steve Nolan thanked the following committee chairs for their impact on significant accomplishments during their years of service to the community: Linda Grendahl from Audit and Finance, Paul Rogers from Communications, Jerry House from Election, Wanda Johnson from Recreation, Geri Hall from SS and A Committee and Richard Hair’s six years of service as Golf Committee Chair.
PROJECT REPORTS:
Pools: Steve Nolan reported that the CW Main Pool work has started and is draining. Work will take around six weeks.
Driving Range: Steve Nolan reported that the driving range is now open.
MANAGEMENT REPORT:
Steve Nolan gave the management report and thanked Brian Shaw, all the managers, Woody Neiman and the Board of Directors and the Audit and Finance Committee for all their hard work on the development of the 2017 budget.
DIRECTORS COMMENTS:
Bud Jenssen thanked Major Westgate for her military service and thanked Linda Caton and crew for TAD series ticket sales.
Anne Montgomery thanked Brian Shaw, Steve Nolan and Woody Neiman for their work on the budget.
Mel Rasmussen thanked all of the outgoing committee chairs for their services and thanked Bill Todd for the fantastic look of the golf course.
Woody Neiman thanked the committee chairs who are leaving and the chairs who are continuing. He thanked Major Westgate for her service. He reminded everyone to be careful in the construction areas around CWPV.
Roger Beagle thanked all committee chairs and committee members and all homeowners who applied for the committees.
Bill Greer thanked Linda Caton, Beth Becker and staff for ticket sales work yesterday, thanked committee chairs and new committee members, and stressed the importance of getting involved in the community.
CAPITAL RESERVE REPLACEMENT FUND REQUESTS:
Dick Norris introduced Capital Reserve request No. 10, Item A.
Anne Montgomery made a motion, seconded by Bud Jenssen, to approve the purchase of 1,800 tons of 3/8 inch pink coral rock for the low bid of $19,951.20, from The Source Sand and Gravel, to be installed in various locations throughout the golf courses as needed.
The floor was opened to Board and homeowner comments. It was stated that the rock is a reserve item that is replaced yearly. No further comments. Motion carried unanimously.
PV GATE RESERVE FUND:
None
CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT FUND REQUESTS:
None
VOLUNTARY CONTRIBUTION FUND:
None
OLD BUSINESS:
Dick Norris introduced Old Business item No. 14A.
Roger Beagle made a motion, seconded by Anne Montgomery, to approve revisions to BP 4-02 Home Purchase Fees.
The floor was opened to Board and homeowner comments; no comments. Motion carried unanimously.
NEW BUSINESS:
Dick Norris introduced New Business item No. 15A.
Roger Beagle made a motion, seconded by Anne Montgomery, to approve the appointments of the 2016-2017 committee members as recommended by each of the committees.
The floor was opened to Board and homeowner comments. Dick Norris stated that these appointments include several exceptions and thanked the past and current committee members for their participation. No further comments. Motion carried unanimously.
Dick Norris introduced New Business item No. 15B.
It was announced that item No. 1 Install permanent rock border along the fence line at the PV golf course from the fence line to the rough area will be deleted from the item No. 15B.
Anne Montgomery made a motion, seconded by Roger Beagle, to adopt item Nos. 2-5 of the following 2017 projects prioritized and recommended by the Facilities and Grounds Committee:
2. CW Lounge restrooms and CW lounge exit door
3. Replace concrete at PV tennis Ramada with Pavers
4. CW golf course tunnel restroom remodel project.
5. Five Lakes Fountain Project
The floor was opened to Board and homeowner comments. There was discussion. No further comments. Motion carried unanimously.
FIRST READINGS:
None
HOMEOWNER COMMENTS:
Concern that pavers may be considered to replace concrete PV tennis Ramada.
Regarding the restroom scope of project.
Regarding the Five Lakes project drawing and placement of the fountains.
There was discussion that the list of projects was only adopted by the Board of Directors.
The meeting adjourned at 3:40 p.m.