Message from the board president
Richard Hawkes
Greetings to the homeowners and friends of Cottonwood Palo Verde!
As you read this message the big news is that the Cottonwood Palo Verde homeowners have selected three new Board members. I encourage you to get to know your new community leaders. I know you will treat them with the same respect and civility you have shown to all our boards. We all need to remember that our board members are homeowners, just like all of us and they’ve volunteered their time to help with the governance of our community. Please welcome the new board members!
The big news for our facility improvement projects this month is the completion of the long awaited Palo Verde patio cover. This new addition has already proven its worth by adding more available seating for those busy nights, while offering a beautiful setting for those who enjoy outside dining. The Board approved the selection of a contractor to build the needed storage space adjacent to the Cottonwood Saguaro Room. This new space will provide onsite storage, rather than having to move tables and chairs from the San Tan Ballroom storage all the way up to the Saguaro Room. The board also approved the hiring of an architect to develop construction plans for the needed storage area to be built as a second level in the current PV Maintenance Facility. This addition will not only provide for needed storage but will free up maintenance floor space in the shop area where items are currently stored. This project will allow for more efficient maintenance work space and also provide for more indoor parking of expensive maintenance equipment. The last pieces of the replacement and up-grade of the audio and visual systems for our entire community has been completed. If you have attended a meeting at either Cottonwood or Palo Verde in recent months you know what a great improvement this investment has been. A gem of this long awaited project is the San Tan Ballroom. The much-improved sound system and the addition of new video capabilities have made the ballroom a show piece for entertainment and special events.
This April edition of the President’s Message is my last for the year. I have concluded my term as president and tenure on your board of directors. This year denotes my ninth year as a member of our board and my 12th year of service, counting my participation in our committee system. I want to express my sincere thanks to the homeowners for allowing me the honor and privilege of serving on our HOA board. I am extremely proud of the of the many community improvements that have been made over the last 12 years. All of the board members I’ve had the pleasure of serving with have focused on the current needs of our community, while keeping their eyes on the future. I personally received much more than I gave. My board and committee experiences presented me the opportunity to see the total community and lead me to realize how unique and beautiful Cottonwood Palo Verde is. The friendships I’ve made throughout our community will last me the rest of my life. I thank all of you for what you gave to me. As we say in Iowa, I’ll see you down the road!
Upcoming events
All tickets for Cottonwood Palo Verde shows and events can be purchased at our Homeowner Services location.
Ladies Coffee
Join us for the last Ladies Coffees until October 5. The coffees are the first Wednesdays of the months October through April in the San Tan Ballroom starting at 10:30 a.m. The cost is only $3 for cookies, hot coffee, hot tea and iced tea along with great conversation with your friends and your new friends Tickets are sold at the door. We also have great give-a-ways. At our April Coffee, we will host Lion City Ladies Clothes. There will be a fashion show and you’ll be able to shop before and after the coffee. We’ll also have some interesting guests for you. Our Ladies Coffee is opened for all Sun Lakers and guests. Dates in 2016: April 6, October 5, November 2 and December 7.
TAD’s Summer Concert Series
Tickets are going fast! Tickets ($20) are on sale now at Cottonwood’s Homeowner Services. Doors open at 6:00 p.m. with a no-host bar. The show will start at 7:00 p.m. These are the first three TAD Concert Shows for the summer:
Tuesday, April 19 – Time in a Bottle (James Taylor, Carole King, Jim Croce, America, Dan Fogelberg, Neil Young and Gordon Lightfoot)
Wednesday, May 11 – The Spouse Whisperer, comedian
Wednesday, June 15 – ‘56 (the 1950s rock and roll revue)
Tickets will go on sale Monday, April 4th for the next three shows!
Wednesday, July 20 – Rod Stewart Tribute Concert
Wednesday, August – Tribute to the British Girls (LuLu, Petula Clark and more)
Wednesday, September 7 – Wednesday ABBA Fab – the premier ABBA experience
DJ Jamal Summer Dances
Our $5 Saturday Night DJ dances are back again for the summer and tickets are sold at Homeowner Services. We are glad to have DJ Jamal with us again spinning a variety of songs for everyone. Doors open at 5:00 p.m. for food service (limited food menu). You order your meal at the San Tan Ballroom bar, giving them your table number. Your food will be delivered to you and removed when you’re finished. Dancing runs from 6:30-9:30 p.m. All Sun Lakers and guests are invited.
Dates: April 30, May 14, June 11, July 23, August 6, September 17 and October 8
Free Skin Cancer Screening
Dr. Laura Arce of Radiant Complexions Dermatology Clinic will be conducting a free skin cancer screening in Cottonwood’s Phoenix Room (A-9) from 8:00 a.m.-noon on Wednesdays. All Sun Lakers are invited. No appointment needed. The doctor will see you on a first come basis. Dr. Joe will be attending on April 6.
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. Ladies Fitness Center, for both men and women (at this time) on the following Wednesdays at noon: April 20, May 18, June 15, July 20, August 17, September 21, October 19, November 16 and December 21. Please sign up at Homeowner Services. If there are less than three 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 the A-7 Painting Room from 8:00 a.m.-noon on the following Mondays: April 11, May 9, June 13, and July 11.
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, April 9 in the A-6 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 600-2828 and remember a little dog will be there waiting desperately for a place to call home.
Bicycle Repair in Cottonwood
Every Friday, Two-Wheel Jones Bicycle Repair will be in Cottonwood’s east parking lot, next to the tennis courts from 8:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m. Now, when your bicycle needs to be repaired, you won’t have to find a way to get it in your vehicle. The repair shop will come to you.
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:
April 9 – Southern Arizona Wine
April 12-14 – Grand Canyon Adventure
April 27-30 – Natural Parks of the Southwest
May 1-7 – Charleston and Savannah
May 9 – Classic Homes Tour with Lunch
May 13-20 – Niagara Falls and Grand Hotel
June 9 – Arcosanti with Lunch in Cottonwood
June 18-26 – Alaska Inside Passage on Holland America
June 19-25 – Discover Glacier National Park
June 26-30 – Sierra Nevada Journey
Board of Director meeting minutes (unapproved) February 24, 2016
Directors present: Rich Featherstone, Richard Hawkes, Bud Jenssen, Anne Montgomery, Woody Neiman, Dick Norris and Mel Rasmussen
Also present: General Manager Steve Nolan
President Richard Hawkes called the meeting to order at 3:00 p.m. He stated that the meeting is being recorded for accuracy of the minutes.
Secretary Mel Rasmussen introduced and gave a short biography of Air Force veteran Larry Taylor. Mr. Taylor then led the Pledge of Allegiance and was thanked for his military service.
Mel Rasmussen made a motion, seconded by Rich Featherstone, to approve the December 30, 2015 Board Meeting Minutes.
The floor was opened to Board and homeowner comments — no comments. Motion carried unanimously.
PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE:
President Richard Hawkes announced that for the fourth year in a row, no adjustments were needed to be made after the audit. He thanked Brian Shaw and staff. He reminded everyone to watch their mail because they should soon be receiving their ballot for the Board elections and bylaws change.
TREASURER’S REPORT:
Treasurer Woody Neiman presented the January 31, 2016 Financial Summary. A detailed report will be available for viewing in Homeowner Services.
The floor was opened to Board and homeowner comments — no comments.
Dick Norris made a motion, seconded by Mel Rasmussen, to approve the January 31, 2016 pre-audited Financial Report. Motion carried unanimously.
COMMITTEE REPORTS:
Architectural Compliance Committee: The report was given of its meetings held on February 2 and 16. They had 90 permit applications approved. The next meeting is March 1 in the A-7 Paint Room.
They have two recommendations for Board approval on today’s agenda: 1) changes to ACC Guideline No. 4 – Antenna and TV Satellite Receivers under Old Business and 2) approve the appointment of John Arhangelsky to the Architectural Compliance Committee. A brief explanation was given regarding the proposed changes. The committee has no recommendations for management.
Audit and Finance Committee: The report was given of its meeting on February 10. Jack Hill reported on behalf of Linda Grendahl. Among the topics discussed were end of year audit report; the monthly reports; and reducing the budget process. The next meeting is March 9 at 2:00 p.m. in the Saguaro Room.
The committee has no recommendations for the Board or 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 on February 1. Among the topics discussed were 2,266 currently signed up for email; 800 Flyers being produced; 501(c)(3) information presented by Elaine Kraemer; fun walk information; Ambassador Tours were six; public access section of the website. The next meeting is March 7 at 8:30 a.m. in the Ceramics Room.
The committee has no recommendations for the Board or for management.
Complete minutes of this committee’s meetings are available for viewing at Homeowner Services.
Election Committee: Larry Taylor was thanked for his military service. The report was given of its meeting on February 4. Among the topics discussed were preparation for the Board elections including review and finalizing of vote documents; and Meet the Candidates Night.
The committee had a meeting following its general meeting for the purpose of verifying the signatures on the prospective Board candidate. The audience was reminded of Meet the Candidates Night, on Thursday, February 25. Next meeting is March 2 at 1:30 p.m. in the Ceramics Room.
The committee has no recommendations for the Board or for management.
Complete minutes of this committee’s meetings are available for viewing at Homeowner Services.
Richard Hawkes thanked Jerry House and the Election Committee for all their work on the elections.
Facilities and Grounds Committee: The report was given of its meeting on February 1. Jeff Michelin reported on behalf of Roger Beagle. Among the topics discussed were various reports from management and the Board Liaison. Next meeting is March 7 at 9:00 a.m. in the Paint Room.
The committee has no recommendations for the Board. The committee has one for management regarding installation of lighting along the cart path east of PV swimming pool near the bridge.
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 on February 4. Among the topics discussed were the financial reports; report from the Board Liaison; management events reports; events announced and a demonstration of silverware and polishing unit and will be going to the Long Range Planning Committee regarding this. Linda Caton was thanked for the TAD shows that are creating a lot of revenue. Next meeting is March 3 at 9:00 a.m. in the Saguaro Room.
The committee has no recommendations for the Board or management.
Complete minutes of this committee’s meetings are available for viewing at Homeowner Services.
Richard Hawkes thanked Linda Caton for the success of the TAD concerts.
Golf Committee: The report was given of its meeting on February 4. Among the topics discussed were reports by management and the clubs; planned activities. Next meeting is March 3 at 2:00 p.m. in the Ceramics Room.
The committee has no recommendations for the Board or management.
Complete minutes of this committee’s meetings are available for viewing at Homeowner Services.
Recreation Committee: The report was given of its meeting on February 1. Among the topics discussed were concealed weapons issue; March TAD series concerts for March – Eagles on March 2, George Strait on March 23. It was reported that Dancing with The Sun Lakes Stars was a success. Next meeting is March 7 at 1:30 p.m. in the Phoenix Room.
The committee has no recommendations for the Board. They have two recommendations for management: 1) no smoking signs requested at the bocce ball site; and 2) painting of landscaping walls north of the pickleball courts.
Complete minutes of this committee’s meetings are available for viewing at Homeowner Services.
Richard Hawkes congratulated Wanda Johnson on her Dancing with the Sun Lakes Stars win.
Safety, Security and Access Committee: The report was given of its meeting on February 3. Among the topics discussed were Dick Gothier exploring guest pass gate system for PV; FEMA information possibly being added to new homeowner packets. Next meeting is March 2 at 10:00 a.m. in the Saguaro Room.
The committee has one recommendation for the Board to approve the appointment of Kathy Clear to the SS and AC. 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: Rich Featherstone gave the report of its meeting on February 9. Among the topics discussed were advising of Option No. 2 conceptual plan for the HWC which was forwarded to the Board at the January 27 Board meeting. The Board accepted only what was brought forward by HWCTF – a conceptual plan so the HWCTF could move to the next step. Nothing further can be done by HWCTF or by the Board that would not include an approval by the homeowners.
An automatic counting system installed in both of the fitness center will be there for several months to determine the usage of the facilities; Mike Smith is reviewing the functions of the spaces in option No. 2; Dave Bolio has resigned from the committee due to personal reasons. Next meeting is scheduled for March 15 at 2:00 p.m. in the Saguaro Room.
Responding to a question from the floor, the counter system just gives the count of a 24-hour period with no other specifics. There was further discussion regarding other usage numbers information on other classes like yoga.
PROJECT REPORTS:
CW and PV sound/video system upgrades: Dick Norris reported on the walk-through of CWPV facilities held February 23 with Jim Miller and Artisan Systems. All A/V systems are working properly including speakers, video cameras, microphones and programmed iPads. There are some issues which are being addressed on the PV Roof conduit runs which will be done as soon as possible. Equipment training sessions will then be scheduled.
PV patio shade: Steve Nolan reported that the project is near completion with base of the pillars being painted and if the request for pillar faux paint is approved that will start next week.
Administration Office flagpoles: Steve Nolan reported that the flagpole project is complete with the addition of the flag representing the military branches. He reported that he has received many positive comments.
MANAGEMENT REPORT: Steve Nolan gave the report from management. He announced that the old Ballroom chairs will be put up for sale to homeowners and be very reasonably priced, so watch for the announcement in The Flyer.
DIRECTORS COMMENTS:
Richard Hawkes welcomed Bud Jenssen back.
Bud Jenssen thanked the following: Larry Taylor for his military service; Jim Miller and staff; Linda Caton for Dancing with the Sun Lakes Stars and to Beth Becker who was a judge in his place. He congratulated Wanda Johnson on her win on Dancing with the Sun Lakes Stars.
Mel Rasmussen thanked Larry Taylor for his military service; congratulated Wanda Johnson on her win and welcomed Bud Jenssen.
Dick Norris thanked Larry Taylor for his military service; thanked the managers; reminded the audience of the third annual Norris Invitational Pickleball Tournament being held March 7-11.
Woody Neiman thanked Larry Taylor for his military service; congratulated Wanda Johnson on her win and Dick Norris on the sound system project coming to a close.
Anne Montgomery thanked Larry Taylor for his military service; thanked the managers; congratulated Wanda Johnson on her win.
Rich Featherstone thanked Larry Taylor for his military service.
CAPITAL RESERVE REPLACEMENT FUND REQUESTS:
Richard Hawkes introduced Capital Reserve request No. 10, Item A.
Woody Neiman made a motion, seconded by Anne Montgomery, to approve emergency irrigation repair to mainline at the pump house at Cottonwood Hole No. 2 green by Gold Canyon Pipeline sole source bid for $2,995.
The floor was opened to Board and homeowner comments — no comments. Motion carried unanimously.
Richard Hawkes introduced Capital Reserve request No. 10, Item B.
Anne Montgomery made a motion, seconded by Bud Jenssen to approve replacement of one Toro Reelmaster 7000-D fairway mower for golf course maintenance for the low bid from Simpson Norton for $76,739.46.
The floor was opened to Board and homeowner comments — A question was answered from the floor regarding upgrading of equipment and why not split the cost between Capital Reserve and Capital Improvement. Bill Todd explained that the current mower is no longer being made and Brian Shaw confirmed there was no reason to split the cost. There were no further comments.
Motion carried unanimously.
PV GATE RESERVE FUND: None
CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT FUND REQUESTS: Richard Hawkes introduced Capital Improvement request No. 12, Item A.
Woody Neiman made a motion, seconded by Anne Montgomery, to approve the purchase of one Toro Groundmaster 4500-D mower used for Common Area Maintenance for the low bid from Simpson Norton for $69,713.83.
The floor was opened to Board and homeowner comments – there were questions regarding what is being replaced and why, if the existing mower is breaking down. Bill Todd explained that common area maintenance never had a mower of their own and had always shared the one from golf maintenance. The new purchase would be for the common area maintenance. There were no further comments.
Motion carried unanimously.
Richard Hawkes introduced Capital Improvement request No. 12, Item B.
Woody Neiman made a motion, seconded by Rich Featherstone, to approve the cost of faux painting 14 new pillars on the Palo Verde patio to match similar to existing pillars, for the low bid from Passion 4 Murals for $2,950 plus a 15 percent contingency for a total cost of $3,292.50.
The floor was opened to Board and homeowner comments – no comments. Motion carried unanimously.
Richard Hawkes introduced Capital Improvement request No. 12, Item C.
Dick Norris made a motion, seconded by Bud Jenssen, to approve purchase of the design and construction documents for a new storage area located in the interior of the Palo Verde maintenance building, for the sole source bid from Archi-CAD Architects for $6,900 plus a 15 percent contingency for a total cost of $7,935.
It was clarified by Mr. Hawkes that this item presently under Capital Improvement, later will be split between Capital Improvement and Capital Reserve – split amount TBD.
The floor was opened to Board and homeowner comments – no comments. Motion carried unanimously.
Richard Hawkes introduced Capital Reserve request No. 12, Item D.
Dick Norris made a motion, seconded by Bud Jenssen, to approve the construction of a storage room on the west side of the Saguaro Room patio, for the low bid from Borman Construction for $25,680 plus a 15 percent contingency, for a total cost of $29,532.
The floor was opened to Board and homeowner comments – there was a question from the Board which was answered by Jim Miller, confirming that we have had experience in the past with Borman. No further comments. Motion carried unanimously.
VOLUNTARY CONTRIBUTION FUND: None
OLD BUSINESS:
Richard Hawkes introduced Old Business No. 14, Item A.
Woody Neiman made a motion, seconded by Anne Montgomery, to approve changes to ACC Guideline No. 4: Antenna and TV Satellite Receivers. The floor was opened to Board and homeowner comments — no comments. Motion carried unanimously.
Richard Hawkes thanked Dick Norris on the ACC’s work on Guideline No. 4.
NEW BUSINESS:
Richard Hawkes introduced New Business No. 15, Item A.
Bud Jenssen made a motion, seconded by Dick Norris, to approve the appointment of John Arhangelsky to the Architectural Compliance Committee. The floor was opened to Board and homeowner comments – no comments. Motion carried unanimously.
Richard Hawkes introduced New Business No. 15, Item B.
Bud Jenssen made a motion, seconded by Dick Norris, to approve the appointment of Kathy Clear to the Safety, Security and Access Committee.
The floor was opened to Board & homeowner comments – no comments. Motion carried unanimously.
FIRST READINGS: None
HOMEOWNER COMMENTS:
When asked the status of the homeowner petitions for the fountains for the five signature lakes, it was confirmed that this will be revisited by the Facilities and Grounds Committee and to the Board in 2017.
Statement asking the Board to pass along to the new Board the recommendation to remove board Policies 7-50 and 7-60.
When asked about if homeowner could park on their yard it was explained that ACC guidelines prohibit this and the Compliance Officer needs to be informed if this is occurring.
The meeting adjourned at 4:08 p.m.