Preston Hollow Recycles!
With the holidays coming up, I want to send out a quick note about the curbside
recycling program.
Let’s try to make an effort to recycle our boxes and wrapping paper! Think of the impact we can make if our entire subdivision recycles all of our holiday trash.
If you don’t have curbside recycling bins, please see the contact number below.
If you don’t want to bother with it yourself, Will and Emily O'Lynnger will gladly help get your trash recycled. Please drop it off on our driveway at 237 Forest Wood Ct and we’ll get it to the dump.
Thanks, and Happy Holidays!!
Waste Management Customer Service: 352 754-4037 M-F 8am-4:30pm
What can be recycled ?
• Newspaper - Please remove paper from plastic bag before placing in recycle bin. The bags are not recyclable with the newspaper but, they can be recycled with the plastic shopping bags at your local grocery store or Wal-Mart.
• Cardboard - Please flatten boxes. Remove any packing material inside the box. Large boxes must be cut down to the dimensions no larger than 3' x 3'. Cereal, cracker, pizza (without food.) and similar boxes are also acceptable.
• Plastic # 1 and # 2 - (No Motor Oil containers.) Food containers such as cooking oil and salad dressing; personal care products such as shampoo or lotion; cleaning products such as window cleaner, laundry detergent, floor cleaner; and of course, soda, milk and water bottles.
• Aluminum Cans
• Steel Cans - Label does NOT have to be removed.
We do ask that all containers be rinsed. For those concerned with using excess water, a simple solution to rinsing is to add containers to your dishwashing machine during your next load - No extra water expended.
What are the two (2) colored bins for? The recycling bins are used to separate the materials collected at the curb. This benefits both the crew picking up the recyclables as well as the citizen. By using 2 colored bins, confusion is minimized regarding which materials will be separated and collected at the curb.
What materials are picked up at the curb? The materials picked up in the curbside program are as follows: Newspaper, Cardboard goes into the BLUE BIN. Aluminum cans, Steel cans, and Plastics #1 & #2 goes into the GREEN BIN.
Glass recycling is not available for pickup – please drop off at the dump.
Thursday, December 11, 2008
Preston Hollow Recycles!
Wednesday, December 10, 2008
Holiday Events in Brooksville December 13
Press Release
December 10, 2008
Holiday Events in Brooksville December 13
MEDIA RELEASE
For Immediate Release
December 10, 2008
Don't miss the very special day coming up this Saturday in Brooksville. What a great family day and opportunity to get in the spirit of the season! The 34th Annual Brooksville Kiwanis Christmas Parade will begin at 10:00 a.m. It will be broadcast live on Bright House Channel 622 or you can also watch the livestreaming on the web at www.hernandocounty.us. The parade will be re-broadcast throughout the holiday. Here are a few dates: Dec. 13 @ 7 pm; Dec. 15 @ 9 a.m.and 7 p.m.; Dec. 17 @1 p.m.; Dec. 18 @ 9 a.m. and Dec. 20 @ 7 p.m. - check the schedule at http://www.hernandocounty.us/cr/HCGBSchedule.htm
for additional broadcast times.
After the Christmas Parade, don't miss the free Family Christmas Festival from noon to 2 pm at the First Baptist Church of Brooksville on Howell Avenue - right on the parade route.
Three special events will be held honoring the 2008 Great Brooksvillian, Dr. Paul Farmer. A book signing will take place at 1:30 pm at the Main Library where Dr. Farmer will sign copies of his book entitled, "Mountains Beyond Mountains", written by Pulitzer Prize winner Tracy Kidder. Books will be available to purchase as well, with all proceeds going to Dr. Farmer's charitable health care organization, Partners in Health.
The Great Brooksvillian Award presentation ceremony will be held at Brooksville City Hall at 4:30. The event will also be videotaped by Hernando County Government Broadcasting for later broadcast.
And finally, a reception in honor of Dr. Farmer organized by his Hernando High School classmates (graduating class of 1978) will be held at 5:30 pm in the parking lot of SunTrust, downtown Brooksville. For information about tickets for this event and more info on all of the Paul Farmer events, visit www.paulfarmer.classquest.com or call (352) 796-3519.
The monthly Bandshell Bash will hold its special holiday performance at the Community Activity Center, 205 E. Ft. Dade Avenue from 4 pm to 8 pm. The event will feature Lindsay Taylor and the St. Anthony Bell Choir.
The annual Christmas Tour of Yesteryear at the Heritage Museum, 601 Museum Court from 6 pm to 9 pm - cost: $5.00/person.
Tuesday, December 9, 2008
FYI about adopting a pet in December
Press Release
December 9, 2008
"Home 4 the Holiday's Pet Pageant
MEDIA RELEASE
For Immediate Release
December 9, 2008
Home 4 the Holidays Pet Pageant
Hernando County Animal Services and the Humane Society of the Nature Coast have partnered together to participate in the Home 4 the Holidays pet adoption campaign. The goal is to find lifelong homes for pets with families that are prepared for the commitment of time and money that responsible pet ownership brings.
If you would like to adopt an animal, please watch the annual Home 4 the Holidays Pet Pageant, airing on Government Broadcasting's Bright House Channel 622 during the month of December (see broadcast times below), or you can also watch Channel 622 on the web at www.hernandocounty.us The Pet Pageant features adorable, adoptable animals from the local shelters that need loving homes. Or please visit one of these shelters - a new family member is waiting for you.
Hernando County Animal Services
19450 Oliver Street
Brooksville, FL 34601
(352) 796-5062
Humane Society of the Nature Coast
Wiscon Road
Brooksville, FL 34601
(352) 796-2711
SPCA of Hernando County
9075 Grant St.
Brooksville, FL 34613
(352) 596-7000
Home 4 the Holidays Broadcast Schedule:
Wed, 12/10 2 p.m. & 9 p.m.
Thurs, 12/11 1 p.m. & 9 p.m.
Sat., 12/13 1 p.m.
Sun., 12/14 1 p.m.
Hernando County Utilities Dept. Billing Changes
Press Release
December9, 2008
Utilities Department Billing Changes
MEDIA RELEASE
For Immediate Release
December 9, 2008
Utilities Department Billing Changes
Beginning in December 2008, the Hernando County Utilities Department will begin a process to realign and consolidate its water meter-reading routes. The route consolidation program is intended to make the routes more efficient and reduce costs for this necessary activity. Savings will result from the reduced travel time for the meter readers.
The first step in this process is the reduction from five (5) billing cycles to four (4) billing cycles per month. When these billing cycles are reduced, the number of meters to be read within each cycle will increase.
Customers may notice a change in their meter-read date when they receive their bills. In addition, the date customers receive their bills may also change. For the first billing cycle after this transition, most customers may receive two statements in January - one regular scheduled statement and a second, smaller pro-rated bill approximately 10 days later. No December statements will be affected. Customers may expect a regular monthly statement beginning in February, 2009.
Please contact our Customer Service Department if you have any questions at (352) 754-4037. Monday – Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
Thursday, November 13, 2008
FYI - from the County regarding your water bill.
Press Release
November7, 2008
Billing Changes for Hernando Co. Utilities Customers
RELEASE
For Immediate Release
November 7, 2008
Utilities Department Billing Changes
Beginning in December 2008, the Hernando County Utilities Department will begin a process to realign and consolidate its water meter-reading routes. The route consolidation program is intended to make the routes more efficient and reduce costs for this necessary activity. Savings will result from the reduced travel time for the meter readers.
The first step in this process is the reduction from five (5) billing cycles to four (4) billing cycles per month. When these billing cycles are reduced, the number of meters to be read within each cycle will increase.
Customers may notice a change in their meter-read date when they receive their bills. In addition, the date customers receive their bills may also change. For the first billing cycle after this transition, some customers may receive a bill less than a month after the last bill they received (under the old schedule). Customers should understand that their bills will be prorated to reflect the shortened billing period. Customers may expect a regular monthly statement beginning in February, 2009.
Please contact our Customer Service Department if you have any questions at (352) 754-4037. Monday – Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
Wednesday, November 12, 2008
FYI
Press Release
November7, 2008
Free Financial Management Class Offered
November 7, 2008
For Immediate Release
From: Donna M. Peacock
Family and Consumer Sciences Agent IV
Hernando County Extension Service
Hernando County Cooperative Extension is offering a free one-hour class entitled, “Protecting Your Assets”, to explore financial management issues such as insurance, estate planning and will protection. The class will provide insight on how to improve your financial health. It will be held at the Hernando County Extension Classroom in Brooksville on Thursday November 13th., from 6:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m
For registration or more information, contact Scott Taylor at 352-754-4433.
GIVING THAT GIVES BACK.
GIVING THAT GIVES BACK.
DONATE TO GOODWILL !
On Saturday, November 15, 2008 from 1:00 PM until 2:00 PM we will be on Preston Hollow Drive in the open area between the ponds accepting donations of unsold yard sale items, plus other items you wish to donate. THANK YOU.
GENTLY USED items you may consider donating:
• Clothing (shoes, uniforms, etc.)
• Linens, Household Items (dishes, glasses, etc.)
• Small Electronics & Knick Knacks
• Books & Toys
• Small Furniture (chairs, end tables, etc.)
• Small Appliances (blenders, toasters, etc)
• Cars, & Boats (Need Original Title)
(We cannot pick up TV’s, or Mattress & Boxsprings.)
Please meet us there. Receipts for tax purposes available to each donor. We need and appreciate every donation. Questions? Please call Lisa Marie @ 813-267-4667.
THANK YOU FOR YOUR DONATION !
WWW.GOODWILL-SUNCOAST.ORG -OR-
WWW.LISA-MARIE.CARROLL@GOODWILL-SUNCOAST.COM
Tuesday, October 28, 2008
Press Release about Early Voting
October 28, 2008
Governor Crist Extends Early Voting Hours
AN IMPORTANT MESSAGE FROM YOUR SUPERVISOR OF ELECTIONS
Annie D.Williams
Hernando County Supervisor of Elections
EARLY VOTING HOURS EXTENDED
Tuesday, October 28, 2008 3:45 pm
Governor Crist has issued an executive order (number 08-217) extending early voting hours.
NEW HOURS FOR HERNANDO COUNTY:
Tuesday, October 28th - open til 7pm
Wednesday, October 29th - 7am - 7pm
Thursday, October 30th - 7am - 7pm
Friday, October 31st - 7am - 7pm
Saturday, November 1st - 7am -7pm
Sunday, November 2nd - CLOSED
(Early voting hours on the weekend may vary by county)
WHERE:
Government Center
BROOKSVILLE OFFICE
20 N. Main St., Rm. 165
Brooksville, FL 34601
Government Center
SPRING HILL OFFICE
7443 Forest Oaks Blvd.
Spring Hill, FL 34606
For accurate election information, contact:
Annie D. Williams
Supervisor of Elections
Hernando County
20 N. Main Street, Room 165
Brooksville, FL 34601
352-754-4125
352-754-4425 Fax
Supervisor of Elections www.hernandovotes.com
Thursday, October 23, 2008
Press Release regarding Hernando County Flood Maps
October 17, 2008
More Workshops Re: Flood Maps
Robyn Felix
1-800-423-1476, Ext. 4770 or
Cell Phone: 813-781-9817
MEDIA RELEASE
For Immediate Release
October 16, 2008
More workshops scheduled to help develop Hernando County flood insurance maps
The Southwest Florida Water Management District and Hernando County are holding more public meetings to present preliminary floodplain information and explain the basis behind the findings.
The information will be used to update area floodplain information and develop preliminary Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRMs). Most of the current FIRMs are 10 to 30 years old and are outdated because of natural and physical changes caused by land use, development and erosion.
One workshop focusing on Hernando County’s Oman Quarry, Powell and Toachodka watersheds will be held Oct. 28, 4 to 7 p.m. at the District Headquarters, 2379 Broad St., in Brooksville.
Another workshop focusing on Hernando County’s Blue Sink, Croom and McKethan watersheds will be held Oct. 30, 4 to 7 p.m. at the District Headquarters, 2379 Broad St., in Brooksville.
During the meetings, preliminary models and floodplain information will be presented to the public for review and comment. After addressing the comments, the floodplain information will be finalized, and presented to the District's Governing Board for permission to develop the preliminary FIRMs for submittal to FEMA.
Upon receipt of the preliminary FIRMs, the FEMA FIRM adoption process will begin, which includes:
· A technical review by FEMA
· Review by Hernando County
· Public input
· A 90-day appeals period
· Issuance of a letter of final determination that informs Hernando County and public of the date when the FIRMs will be considered effective
Hernando County anticipates adopting new FIRMs starting next year once the FEMA process is complete. The FEMA process should take nine to 12 months; but based on appeals can take several years.
The floodplain information will be used by the county for land use and zoning decisions; to help manage development in and around floodplains and wetlands; reduce flood risks; preserve land and water resources; and planning for emergencies. It will also provide valuable information to the public for decisions about purchasing and protecting property.
For more information, or to find out which watershed you live in, please visit www.WaterMatters.org/floodrisk/. You can also call the District at (352) 796-7211, ext. 4297.
###
Flood Map Information www.watermatters.org
Thursday, October 2, 2008
Swiftmud updates their Flood Maps will you have to buy Flood Insurance?
The district, known as Swiftmud, is in the process of updating the maps last revised in 1984. The maps, to be certified by the Federal Emergency Management Association, are used by mortgage companies to determine whether a property owner must buy flood insurance.
Hernando County's current flood maps haven't been revised since 1984. The district and its consultants unveiled preliminary maps last year but then admitted the methodology needed improving. The latest maps incorporate the rate that water is absorbed into sandy soil as well as new topographical data. The models in most cases use a one-day rainfall that would drop 13 inches of rain in 24 hours.
There are 22 watersheds in the county. Swiftmud will hold about seven or eight workshops, each one focusing on two or three watersheds. The district is mailing cards to property owners whose floodplain status would change based on the new maps.
For more information on the flood map project, call Swiftmud at 796-7211.
On the Web
To find out more about the new flood maps, go to / www.swfwmd.state.fl.us and click on the "Federal Flood Map Updates" link. To find out about the National Flood Insurance Program, go to www.floodsmart.gov.
Commuter Choices Week Event
Press Release
October 2, 2008
Commuter Choices Week Event
MEDIA RELEASE
For Immediate Release
Contact: Sandi Moody, Executive Director
Bay Area Commuter Services (BACS)
(813) 282-8200 or (800) 998-7433
OCTOBER 2, 2008
Bay Area Commuter Services (BACS) announces the Tampa Bay Area's 12th Annual Commuter Choices Week (CCW). This series of events helps to educate the general public, local government and the media about commute options and the benefits of reducing traffic congestion (and helping to reduce our need for fossil fuels). With fluctuating gas prices and the focus on global warming, this year's Commuter Choices Week will promote "Going Greener".
CCW promotes carpooling, vanpooling, riding the bus, bicycling, walking teleworking and flexible work hour programs. To publicize the diversity of commute options, a series of fun public events will be held throughout the Tampa Bay area during the weeks of October 6-17, 2008.
In Hernando County, BACS has scheduled a CCW awareness event for Wednesday, October 15, 2008, from 11:30 to 1:30 in front of the historic courthouse in downtown Brooksville. There will be food and lots of information about transportation alternatives for your daily commute. WWJB radio station will broadcast live on-site at the event.
To get involved and support Commuter Choices Week, complete the online commitment form, become eligible for prizes and learn more about saving money, reducing stress and saving our environment.
http://www.tampabayrideshare.org/ccw08.htm
Bay Area Commuter Services www.tampabayrideshare.org/ccw08.htm
Halloween Harvest Festival
Press Release
October 2, 2008
Halloween Harvest Festival
MEDIA RELEASE
For Immediate Release
October 2, 2008
The Hernando County Recreation Department will hold its annual Halloween Harvest Festival on Friday and Saturday, October 24th and 25th, 2008, from 6 p.m. until 10 p.m. The festival will be held at the Hernando County Fairgrounds, 6436 Broad St. (U.S. 41), Brooksville, Florida.
Both nights will feature games and other activities, food, a haunted house, hay ride and entertainment. A pet masquerade will take place on Friday at 7 p.m., and a costume contest is scheduled for Saturday at 7:30 p.m.
Game tickets are 4/$1; haunted house admission is $4; and the hay ride is $2. For more information, call the Recreation Department at 7(352) 754-4031.
http://www.hernandocounty.us/Parks_Rec/
Watering Restrictions Extended Through February
Press Release
October 1, 2008
Watering Restrictions Extended Through February
MEDIA RELEASE
For Immediate Release
September 30, 2008
Southwest Florida Water Management District Governing Board extends water restrictions through February
Summer rains not enough for water resources to fully recover
The Southwest Florida Water Management District's Governing Board voted today to extend the current Water Shortage Order, which restricts lawn watering throughout the District to one-day-per-week, through Feb. 27, 2009.
The Governing Board chose to extend the term of the water shortage order because the region is still impacted by the two-year drought and portions of the District did not receive enough rain during the annual wet season.
Following two years of drought, the area was beginning to see normal rainfall patterns return, as well as the recovery of water resources. But while the rest of the state received significant rainfall from Tropical Storm Fay, the storm skirted our region and subsequent tropical systems brought drier air, rather than rainfall. As a result, the District is still experiencing a 24-month rainfall deficit.
“Despite the better rainfall this past year, we have not seen recovery to pre-drought conditions,” said Granville Kinsman, hydrologic data manager.
Meanwhile, rainfall in September, the last month of our four-month rainy season, has been below-normal and surface water and ground water systems started their seasonal declines earlier than expected.
As of Sept. 22, groundwater levels for the northern, central and southern regions of the District have already peaked and are beginning to decline. The northern region includes Citrus, Hernando, Lake, Levy, Marion and Sumter counties; the central region includes Hillsborough, Pasco, Pinellas, and Polk counties; and the southern region includes Charlotte, DeSoto, Hardee, Highlands, Manatee, and Sarasota counties.
Stream flows also have peaked and are beginning to decline on all major rivers within the District. In fact, the stream flows for the Alafia River and Hillsborough River are considered severely abnormal.
Due to low streamflows, the public supply systems served by Tampa Bay Water and the Peace River/Manasota Regional Water Supply Authority remain at-risk due to low storage. Both regional suppliers continue to rely on emergency authorizations to help meet current water demand.
Lake levels throughout the District remain severely impacted by the drought. The lakes within the northern region are about 6.3 feet below where they would normally be expected to be at the end of September. Lakes in the central region, which includes the Tampa Bay area, are about 3.1 feet lower than expected. Lakes in the southern region, which includes the Polk Uplands region and the Lake Wales Ridge region, are 3.6 to 6.7 feet lower than expected.
“In addition to hydrologic conditions, staff also considers climate indicators when recommending the board extend water restrictions,” said Kinsman. “The Climate Prediction Center anticipates drier-than-normal conditions through the fall and spring.”
The water shortage order, which has been in effect since Jan. 16, 2007, was slated to expire Sept. 30.
The order includes restrictions that apply to the use of water from public and private water utilities as well as the use of all wells and surface water sources (ponds, rivers, etc.).
The following schedule is a summary of the restrictions unless your city or county has a different once-per-week schedule:
Addresses with "house numbers" … May only irrigate on…
Ending in 0 or 1 Monday
Ending in 2 or 3 Tuesday
Ending in 4 or 5 Wednesday
Ending in 6 or 7 Thursday
Ending in 8 or 9 Friday
For more information about water restrictions, the drought and how you can conserve water, visit the District's web site at www.WaterMatters.org/drought.
Questions concerning water restrictions can be answered during normal business hours by calling 1-800-848-0499 or 1-800-423-1476, extension 4498.
Wednesday, September 24, 2008
Apply for program at Sheriff's Office
Apply for program at Sheriff's Office
Openings are available for the afternoon and evening sessions of the next Hernando County Sheriff's Office Citizens Academy, which will be offered on Thursdays, Oct. 9-Nov. 13. The afternoon session meets from 1 to 4 p.m. and the evening session meets from 6 to 9 p.m.
The Citizens Academy gives an insider's view of the Sheriff's Office and criminal justice system. During the six-week course, participants will observe demonstrations by police dog handlers, receive tours of the Sheriff's Office and learn about forensics, uniform patrol, traffic unit, administration, investigations, vice and narcotics, communications/911, aviation and marine units, mounted patrol and legal issues and perspectives.
Graduates will have the option of riding along with a patrol deputy, flying in the helicopter or observing in the communications center.
The academy is available to adults 18 and older. For information or to register, call Vicki Porter at 754-6830, ext. 53664.
Sunday, September 7, 2008
FYI - Mosquito Control Efforts
Press Release
September5, 2008
Mosquito Control Efforts
MEDIA RELEASE
For Immediate Release
Mosquito Control Efforts
September 5, 2008
The Hernando County Mosquito Control Division advises that as a result of recent increased rainfall, mosquito populations are booming. Mosquitoes can pose a public health threat, especially because the long period of drought prior to the rainy season killed most natural enemies of mosquitoes in ponds, lakes, and retention ponds. Currently, the most severe mosquito problem exists in the City of Brooksville and north of Brooksville, Lake Lindsey, and Ridge Manor.
With over 240 calls received since August, the Mosquito Control staff is very busy fighting these noxious insects with inspections, larviciding, and biological control. All six trucks are spraying nightly. The chemical used is Biomist, which is safe for humans and animals.
Residents are reminded of the importance of monitoring their own property to make sure they are not inadvertently harboring a breeding gound for mosquitoes by allowing water to collect in flower pots, toys or other items that may hold even 1/4" of water.
To learn more about the County's mosquito control methods and how residents can help, visit http://www.hernandocounty.us/mosquito/. In addition, you may contact Mosquito Control at 352 754-4060 for assistance if you have a mosquito problem and to arrange for a staff member to speak to your civic club or neighborhood association on mosquito control issues.
www.hernandocounty.us/mosquito/
Sheriff's Office to host Homeowners' Meeting
Sheriff's Office to host Homeowners' Meeting
Hernando County Sheriff Richard Nugent and the Sheriff's Office will host a new homeowners meeting and informal discussion at 6 p.m. Sept. 16 at the Emergency Operation Center, 18900 Cortez Blvd.
Nugent will welcome all new homeowners and discuss programs the Sheriff's Office offers to residents.
There is no cost to attend. However, seating is limited, and preregistration is required by Friday. To register or for information, call (352) 754-6830, ext. 53664.
Tuesday, September 2, 2008
FYI About Budget Hearings
September2, 2008
Public Hearings to Adopt FY 08/09 Budget
MEDIA RELEASE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 2, 2008
Board of County Commission Schedules Budget Hearings
The Board of County Commissioners has scheduled the following public hearings regarding the proposed FY 2008/2009 budget:
Thursday, September 11, 2008 at 5:01 p.m. (Public Hearing to Adopt Tentative Budget)
Thursday, September 25, 2008 at 5:01 p.m. (Public Hearing to Adopt Final Budget)
The public hearings are open to the public and will be held in the John Law Ayers Room, First Floor, Hernando County Government Center, 20 N. Main Street, Brooksville, Florida. The proposed budget can be viewed on the County’s website at www.hernandocounty.us.
In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, persons with disabilities needing a special accommodation to participate in this proceeding should contact Alice Gura in the County Administrator's Office, 20 North Main Street, Brooksville, Florida, 34601, telephone (352) 754-4002. If hearing impaired, please call 1-800-676-3777 for assistance.
Questions regarding the public hearings or the budget may be directed to the Budget Office at 754-4004.
FREE CLASSES ON FLORIDA-FRIENDLY GARDENING
September 2, 2008
County Extension Classes - September
NEWS RELEASE
By: Jim Moll, Horticulture Agent for
University of Florida/IFAS
Hernando County Cooperative Extension Service
19490 Oliver Street, Brooksville, FL 34601-6538
Ph: (352)754-4433
September 2, 2008
FREE CLASSES ON FLORIDA-FRIENDLY GARDENING
Please note the changes in class locations. The Extension Service will no longer house a satellite office in the Forest Oaks Government Center. Thank you is extended to the Hernando County Library System for providing locations for classes in Florida-friendly gardening.
The University of Florida/IFAS Hernando County Cooperative Extension Service will present the following free classes at:
Spring Hill Branch Library
9220 Spring Hill Dr.
Spring Hill
2:00 pm
“Colorful Fall Annuals and Perennials” – October 15th
“Preparing Your Landscape for Winter” October 29th
The following class will be presented at:
Hernando County Cooperative Extension Service
19490 Oliver St.
Brooksville
10:00am:
“Great Trees for Hernando County” – October 18th
“Fertilizing Appropriately” – October 25th
Call 754-4433 for a full schedule of classes or log on to and click on Extension Classes. Registration is not taken for any of the classes. First come, first seated.
Participants needing special accommodation should call (352)754-4433 at least five working days prior to the meeting. Persons with hearing or speech impairment should call Florida Relay Center Service at 1-800-955-8771.
Sunday, August 17, 2008
Hernando County Preparations for Tropical Storm Fay
August17, 2008
Hernando County Preparations for Tropical Storm Fay
MEDIA RELEASE
For Immediate Release
Hernando County's Preparations for Tropical Storm Fay
August 17, 2008 - 9:00 p.m.
Hernando County Emergency Management officials will hold a Threat Advisory Committee meeting Monday, August 18, 2008, at 11:00 a.m. at the Emergency Operations Center, 18900 Cortez Boulevard, Brooksville, Florida, to discuss preparations for Tropical Storm Fay.
Residents are strongly urged to monitor the storm closely. The current track projects strengthening to a Category 1 with possible impact to the north of Hernando County. Residents should review their emergency plans and be prepared. Additional information will be released after the Threat Advisory Committee meeting tomorrow morning.
Hernando County schools and all government offices will be open tomorrow.
Emergency Management Department staff has monitored the progress of Tropical Storm Fay since Friday afternoon. Public Works and Utilities operations have made preparations over the weekend such as fueling vehicles and preparing for debris collection should Hernando County be impacted by the storm.
For updates on the County's preparations, residents may call (352) 754-4083 or the recorded information line at (352) 754-4111. The Hernando County website will be kept updated with the latest emergency information: http://www.hernandocounty.us/EOC/index.asp.
###
Emergency Bulletins www.hernandocounty.us/EOC/index.asp
Friday, August 15, 2008
FYI - Early Voting in Hernando County Begins
August 15, 2008
Early Voting is Underway in Hernando County
MEDIA RELEASE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
EARLY VOTING DATES AND LOCATIONS
Early voting is available to Hernando County registered voters for the August 26th Primary Election.
EARLY VOTING DATES, TIMES AND LOCATIONS
DATES
August 11, 2008 through August 16, 2008
August 18, 2008 through August 23, 2008
TIMES
8:30AM - 4:30PM Monday - Saturday (Of above dates)
LOCATIONS
Main Elections Office
Hernando County Government Center
20 N. Main St., Rm. 165
Brooksville, FL 34601
(352) 754-4125
Branch Office
Forest Oaks Government Center
7443 Forest Oaks Blvd.
Spring Hill, FL 34606
(352) 754-4125
Bring photo and signature identification with you to vote early.
If you have any questions regarding early voting, please call the Elections office at (352) 754-4125.
Tuesday, August 12, 2008
Crime Watch FYI !!!
Last Thursday 8/7/08 you may have heard helicopters flying over Preston Hollow at night and wondered what was going on. Someone called the police because people were trespassing on properties here in Preston Hollow. Those individuals caught by the police are also suspected of committing animal cruelty in Wyndsor Place. Please remember to keep an eye out for any suspicious activity and report it to the Sheriff's Office. Below is the police report number with the information. Thanks for being a good neighbor!
Report# - 2008-25925
Report Date - 08/07/2008 06:19 PM
Offense - ANIMAL CRUELTY
Occurred Location: - SABLE KNOLL CT & SUNSET WOODS
City - SPRING HILL
Zone: - Dist 2-Zone 7
Monday, August 11, 2008
Candidates Forum Scheduled for August 14th
Candidates Forum Scheduled for August 14th
MEDIA RELEASE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
August 6, 2008
The Greater Hernando County Chamber Of Commerce Government Affairs Committee will present the 2008 Candidates Forum on Thursday, August 14th at 6:00 pm at the County Commissioners Chambers, 20 North Main Street, Brooksville. This event is open to the public. There will be a meet and greet with the candidates starting at 5:00 pm. The questioning panel consists of Michael Konrad-Editor of the St. Petersburg Times/Hernando Times and Chris Wessel-Editor of the Hernando Today.
The Forum will be broadcast live on Bright House Channel 622 and simulcast on WWJB 1450 AM. This event is sponsored by the Hernando County Association of Realtors, Hernando Builders Association and Hernando Progress. Call the Chamber Office at 352-796-0697 for additional information. The program will be re-broadcast on Channel 622 according to the following schedule:
Saturday, 8/16 7 pm
Monday, 8/18 9 am & 8 pm
Wednesday, 8/20 1 pm
Saturday, 8/23 6 pm
Monday, 8/25 9 am & 6 pm
AARP is offering Driver Safety Program Classes
AARP is offering a refresher course for drivers age 50 and older. The eight-hour course is given in two four-hour segments, and the cost is $10 per person. Since class size is limited, call to register.
Driver Safety Program classes will be offered at the following locations in September:
•12 noon to 4 p.m., Friday, Sept. 5, and Monday, Sept. 8, at the Brooksville Enrichment Center, 670 South Broad St., Brooksville. To register, call 352-684-9302.
•9 a.m. to 1 p.m., Friday, Sept. 12 and 19, at Holy Cross Lutheran Church, 6193 Spring Hill Drive, Spring Hill. To register, call 352-666-4044.
•12 noon to 4 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 16, and Thursday, Sept. 18, at Forest Oaks Lutheran Church, 8555 Forest Oaks Blvd., Spring Hill. To register, call 352-797-7497.
•9 a.m. to 1 p.m., Wednesday and Thursday, Sept. 17-18, at the Brookridge Club House, 8150 Hampton St., Brooksville. The Brookridge Community is located next to Register Chevrolet on Cortez Boulevard.
To register, call 352-666-4044.
•9 a.m. to 1 p.m., Wednesday, Sept. 17 and 24, at the Spring Hill Enrichment Center, behind Oak Hill Hospital, 11375 Cortez Blvd.; follow signs. To register, call 352-666-4044.
Wednesday, July 30, 2008
Extension Office Offers Free Classes on Florida Friendly Gardening
NEWS RELEASE
FREE CLASSES ON FLORIDA-FRIENDLY GARDENING
The University of Florida/IFAS Hernando County Cooperative Extension Service will present the following free classes at the Forest Oaks Government Plaza, 7479 Forest Oaks Blvd in Spring Hill:
“Why Landscapes Fail – Too Much, Too Little, Too Late” August 5th
“Creating a Backyard Wildlife Habitat”- August 12th
“Successful Vegetable Gardening in Florida – August 19
“Fertilizing Appropriately” – August 26th
Classes begin at 10:00 A.M. Registration is not taken for the Tuesday classes at Forest Oaks. First come, first seated.
The following classes will be presented at The Hernando County Cooperative Extension Service, 19490 Oliver St, Brooksville at 10:00am:
“Successful Vegetable Gardening in Florida” – August 16th
“The Shady Side of Your Landscape”– August 23rd
Please call 754-4433 to register for the Brooksville classes.
Call 754-4433 for a full schedule of classes or log on to and click on Extension Classes.
FYI - News Release
Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO) Public Meetings Scheduled
MEDIA RELEASE
For Immediate Release
July 30, 2008
The Hernando County Metropolitan Planning Organization will conduct the following public meetings in the Hernando County Planning Department Conference Room, 20 N. Main Street, Room 261, Brooksville, Florida:
Citizens Advisory Committee (CAC)
Tuesday, AUGUST 5, 2008 -4:00 p.m.
This committee provides a formal framework for continuing public input on the Long Range Transportation Plan (LRTP) as well as other elements of the transportation planning process. Topics to be discussed at the meeting include the annual progress report for the five-year Transit Development Plan (TDP).
Technical Advisory Committee (TAC)
Tuesday, AUGUST 5, 2008 - 1:30 p.m
This committee provides technical review on transportation programs, projects and issues. Topics to be discussed at the meeting include the annual progress report for the five-year Transit Development Plan (TDP).
Transit Technical Committee (TTC)
Wednesday, AUGUST 6, 2008 - 2:00 p.m
This committee provides technical review on transit operations and policy issues, programs and projects. Topics to be discussed at the meeting include a status report on the transit system, review of transit marketing and outreach activities, and the annual progress report for the five-year Transit Development Plan (TDP).
All meetings are open to the public. Any questions concerning this public meeting should be directed to Mr. Dennis Dix, MPO Coordinator, Hernando County Metropolitan Planning Organization, 20 N. Main Street, Room 262, Brooksville, FL 34601, or by telephone at (352) 754-4057, ext. 28014. Agenda items may be viewed online at www.hernandocounty.us/mpo or email mpo@hernandocounty.us.
In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, persons with disabilities needing a special accommodation to participate in this proceeding should contact Alice Gura, County Administration, 20 N. Main Street, Room 462, Brooksville, FL 34601, or by telephone at (352) 754-4002, no later than three (3) days prior to the proceedings. If hearing impaired, please call 1-800-676-3777 for assistance.
Wednesday, July 23, 2008
MEDIA RELEASE
For Immediate Release
Sinkhole at 168 Oak Lake Dr.
July 23, 2008
Hernando County announces an active sinkhole at 168 Oak Lake Dr. in the Rainbow Hills subdivision off of County Line Rd. The sinkhole is approximately 6 x 6 x 12ft. deep. Oak Lake Dr. will be close for approximately 48 hours. There is a detour being set up at the intersection of Oak Lake Dr. and Lake Hill Ct. The sinkhole will be monitored for activity during this time.
###
Brenda Frazier
Community Relations Coordinator
Hernando County Government
20 N. Main Street - Room 460
Brooksville, FL 34601
(352) 540-6780
(352) 754-4477 (fax)
brendaf@hernandocounty.us
Monday, July 21, 2008
Credit Awareness Class Offered
July 17, 2008
Credit Awareness Class Offered
MEDIA RELEASE
For Immediate Release
July 17, 2008
From: Donna M. Peacock
Family and Consumer Sciences Agent IV
Hernando County Extension Service
Credit Card Awareness Class Offered
Hernando County Cooperative Extension is providing a one-hour class on “Credit Card Awareness”, to provide insight on how to improve your financial health. Classes are at the Hernando County Extension classroom in Brooksville, Tuesday August 5th, from 6:30 – 7:30 p.m., and at the Forest Oaks Government Center on Thursday, August 21st, from 6:30 – 7:30 p.m.
Evidence shows that those who have knowledge of money management have a happier home life. Those who have skills in handling credit will be faced with fewer delinquencies and bankruptcies.
Credit, when carefully used, helps to make life more comfortable and enjoyable. However, when it is misused, credit can cause severe financial problems.
Please contact Scott Taylor (754-4433) for more info or to register for this free class.
Sunday, July 20, 2008
Horticulture Insect Control Class Offered by County Extension
July 18, 2008
Horticulture Insect Control Class Offered by County Extension
MEDIA RELEASE
For Immediate Release
THE SECRET TO SUCCESSFUL PEST CONTROL REVEALED
July 18, 2008
A free class “Only the Young Die Good (Insects that is!)” will be offered by Urban Horticulture Agent, Jim Moll on Tuesday, July 22,2008. The classes will be offered at the Forest Oaks Government Center, 7479 Forest Oaks Blvd, Spring Hill, at 10:00 a.m. No registration is required, first come, first seated.
Participants will learn how to successfully manage their insect problems before their plants are devoured. They will learn how to get those bad bugs when they are young, and their populations are small.
The Extension Service is an educational program which exists to serve the educational needs of the local people. Extension Agents extend the resources of the University of Florida our land grant University, and the U.S. Department of Agriculture in the following program areas: agriculture, horticulture, family and consumer sciences and 4-H.
Visit our web-site at http://www.co.hernando.fl.us/County_Extension/
Contact: Jim Moll, Horticulture Agent for
University of Florida/IFAS
Hernando County Cooperative Extension Service
19490 Oliver Street, Brooksville, FL 34601-6538
Ph: (352)754-4433
Saturday, July 5, 2008
Learn how to keep your lawn from going bad.
SPRING HILL
Learn how to keep lawn from going bad!
The Hernando County Cooperative Extension Service will provide a free class, "Preventing Bad Lawns," at 10 a.m. Tuesday 7/8/08 at its satellite office in the Forest Oaks Government Center, 7479 Forest Oaks Blvd.
No registration is required, but seating will be limited. For information, call 754-4433.
Thursday, June 26, 2008
Hernando County Press Release
June25, 2008
Southwest Florida Water Management District Extends Water Restrictions
MEDIA RELEASE
For Immediate Release
June 24, 2008
The Southwest Florida Water Management District’s Governing Board voted unanimously today to extend the current Water Shortage Order, which restricts lawn watering throughout the District to one-day-per-week, through Sept. 30.
The Governing Board chose to extend the term of the water shortage order because impacts from the two-year drought continue despite the start of the annual rainy season. In particular, regional public supply systems, including Tampa Bay Water and the Peace River/Manasota Regional Water Supply Authority, remain at-risk due to low storage. Tampa Bay Water’s supplies have not returned to pre-drought conditions and the Peace River/Manasota Regional Water Supply Authority continues to rely on two emergency authorizations to help meet current water demand.
“We need people to continue to be vigilant,” said David Moore, District executive director. “We appreciate their efforts to conserve through the dry season and we need them to continue. Now is the time to try and help our water resources recover.”
One way residents can help is by reducing their lawn watering during the summer rainy season. Residents are encouraged to skip their watering day if they’ve recently received rain.
The Governing Board took into consideration that despite recent rain, the District continues to experience depressed hydrologic conditions.
Although the District’s 16-county region has received about five inches of rain so far this month, this represents only 67 percent of the normal amount for June. For the 24-month period of June 2006 through May 2008, the District wide rainfall deficit is 17.2 inches.
All 16 counties within the District are experiencing below-normal groundwater
Governing Board extends water restrictions conditions. In general, groundwater conditions are currently categorized as moderately abnormal.
The Withlacoochee River is experiencing substantially below-normal conditions and lakes throughout the District are two to five feet below the bottom of the normal range.
“While the recent rains have been beneficial, we have not seen enough improvement in the water resources to lift restrictions,” said Lois Sorensen, the District’s demand management coordinator. “Fortunately, residents do not need to water their lawns now that it is raining.”
The water shortage order, which has been in effect since Jan. 16, 2007, was slated to expire June 30.
The order has also been expanded to include all of unincorporated Marion County. This is consistent with the District’s Interagency Agreement with the St. Johns River Water Management District. Marion County is divided between the two water management districts, with the boundary roughly being Interstate 75. Staff from both water management districts worked together earlier this year to develop the new uniform lawn and landscape irrigation measures.
The order includes restrictions that apply to the use of water from public and private water utilities as well as the use of all wells and surface water sources (ponds, rivers, etc.).
The following is a schedule and summary of the restrictions unless your city or county has a different once-per-week schedule:
Addresses with “house numbers…” May only irrigate on…
Ending in 0 or 1 Monday
Ending in 2 or 3 Tuesday
Ending in 4 or 5 Wednesday
Ending in 6 or 7 Thursday
Ending in 8 or 9 Friday
For more information about water restrictions, the drought and how you can conserve water, visit the District’s web site at www.WaterMatters.org/drought.
Questions concerning water restrictions can be answered during normal business hours by calling 1-800-848-0499 or 1-800-423-1476, extension 4498.
www.WaterMatters.org/drought.
Friday, June 20, 2008
Neighborhood Grapefruit FYI !!
Henry and Judy Waller have fresh grapefruit they would like to give away to anyone in Preston Hollow who would like it. Please contact them at 352-848-0954 if you would like some of their delicious fruit.
Preston Hollow Neighborhood Alert !!
A Preston Hollow resident who lives on Forest Wood Court had gas siphoned from his vehicle the other night. If you park your car in the driveway please be advised that this is happening not only here but in other neighborhoods in Hernando County. If you can't park your car in the garage please think about buying a locking gas cap for your vehicle.
Thursday, June 19, 2008
Mosquito Awareness Week - June 23-28
Press Release
Mosquito Awareness Week - June 23-28
MEDIA RELEASE
For Immediate Release
Mosquito Awareness Week
June 18, 2008
The Hernando County Mosquito Control Department has announced that June 22-28 is National Mosquito Awareness Week. With the summer heat and rain comes those pesky mosquitoes, which are not only a nuisance when trying to enjoy the outdoors, but they also present a health hazard. The staff at Mosquito Control wants residents to understand the importance of monitoring their own property to make sure they are not inadvertently harboring a breeding ground for mosquitoes.
The Mosquito Control staff emphasizes that, while spraying for mosquitoes is a service they provide, it is really the last line of defense in controlling the mosquito population. Understanding the mosquito life cycle and learning how to eliminate mosquito egg-laying sites around their homes will help residents reduce the number of mosquitoes in their own neighborhoods.
A wealth of helpful information is available at http://www.hernandocounty.us/mosquito/. In addition, you may contact Mosquito Control at 352 754-4060 for assistance if you have a mosquito problem and to arrange for a staff member to speak to your civic club or neighborhood association on mosquito control issues.
HOA Informational Article in the Tampa Tribune
The Tampa Tribune
Published: June 18, 2008
Bob Tankel wants you to know that he's not Snidely Whiplash.
As an attorney for more than 500 homeowners associations, Tankel is foreclosing on people's homes for unpaid association dues with surprising frequency. Although some are investors, others live in the homes and lose them because of a few hundred dollars in back dues, he says.
That makes Tankel an unsympathetic figure. He jokingly says people sometimes compare him to Snidely Whiplash, the top-hatted villain with the handlebar mustache in the old Dudley Do-Right cartoons.
But Tankel insists he's not a bad guy and doesn't want to take people's homes away from them.
Instead, he is looking out for the interests of homeowners and condo associations, which also are victims of Florida's housing mess, he says. The huge spike in mortgage foreclosures has left many deed-restricted neighborhoods dotted with vacant homes. Homeowners who remain often put off paying their association dues to save money.
Those residents who faithfully pay their association dues are forced to pay extra to make up for people who don't. That's unfair to them, says Tankel, who has practiced community association law in Dunedin for 26 years.
Here's a look at the rise in homeowners association foreclosures through the eyes of one of the lawyers on the front lines.
Do you get a lot of angry calls from homeowners?
We do get a number of angry calls. I don't recall that we've been threatened with physical harm, because our goal is to defuse the situation. People who come in my office who are angry, if my staff can't deal with them, I'll ask them to step into the conference room, discuss it with them and just lay it out for them. My clients the HOAs are geared toward resolving these things. Clients have no interest in owning someone's home or kicking someone out.
The last thing I want is a physical confrontation for anybody. Some angry people might go home and take it out on their president. I have had association presidents that have had slashed tires and threats and so forth.
Are people surprised that their homeowners association can foreclose upon them?
People who buy into these communities don't read the fine print, and the fine print says that if they don't pay the association it has the right to sue them personally for the amounts that they owe. And it has a lien, or claim, against the property. They can actually sell the property to satisfy the debt, no different than a mortgage.
How often are you taking a delinquent homeowner's home to foreclosure sale, and how much has that changed?
What I can say is that three years ago I had one person working on foreclosures, which is I what I call the start of the legal process, and one person working on all the efforts prior to the start of litigation.
Now I have two paralegals just for homeowners association collections, one paralegal for condo collections, one paralegal just for defense of mortgage foreclosures, one paralegal overseeing the process, and probably another floater who works as needed and follows through with the foreclosures. So if you go by staff, it's five times the staff.
In my experience, we would sell a home on the courthouse steps once every couple years. Now we're taking six to 10, maybe six to 12 a year, maybe as many as one a month to foreclosure sale. Because there's a lot of them that are working their way through the system, it takes at least six or eight months after you start before you can get to the courthouse steps.
You advise your association clients to seek foreclosure against delinquent homeowners. Why don't you just file a lawsuit for a money judgment? Isn't that more humane than taking someone's home?
Florida has a lot of protections for debtors. When you have a judgment against someone you still have to execute the judgment, which means you have to find assets that you can sell to satisfy the judgment. Frankly, I don't seek judgments against people because a judgment is just that - a piece of paper.
When you've got a situation where a person doesn't pay, the association can either foreclose and sell the home on the courthouse steps or get a judgment. When you seek foreclosure, you know that the home is not going to move to Alabama. The home is not going to go bankrupt. You know that the home is not going anywhere. We just go after the home.
If you seek a judgment against someone and they go bankrupt, the judgment may disappear. The most powerful tool that an association has is foreclosure.
If a home doesn't sell at a foreclosure sale, the homeowners association sometimes buys it. What do they do with it in a depressed real estate market?
In this market, the value of the home is almost universally less than the mortgage. In the situation where the association takes back title, that's a perfect opportunity for someone in the association to step forward and become a real estate investor. Buy the judgment from the association and seek a short sale of the mortgage from the mortgage company.
When the association finds itself as the unfortunate owner, I recommend they either try to rent it on Craigslist, or in the alternative, actually deeding it back to the bank immediately. In other words, take the position that the bank now owns it and has to pay the back assessments to the extent allowed by the law, and the law is changing.
Don't attorney's fees in foreclosure cases often exceed the amount of past-due homeowners assessments?
Attorney's fees routinely exceed the amount that is in question. And judges, I think, have a hard time with that - when I end up in the judge's chambers and we're at the summary judgment and I have my affidavit of costs and fees that can run in a routine case $1,500 or $1,800, maybe $2,000, and the amount due is only $400 or $500.
The critics of the association lawyers who say you're taking people's homes away and you're profiting out of whack to the amount due don't understand the process. It's hard work, it involves analysis of title. It's fundamentally the same work as if it was a $10 million mortgage.
Tuesday, June 17, 2008
Crime Watch FYI !!!
Last Thursday 6/12/08 a resident in Preston Hollow was awakened by a man's voice outside his bedroom window at 3:50 in the morning. The Sheriff's Office was called and a Deputy responded but didn't find the intruder. Please be aware of this situation and call 911 if you hear or see someone that doesn't belong in the neighborhood. Randi Rosmarin who heads up our Crime Watch was notified.
Sign Up for Two Very Important Information E-lerts
If you click on the two links below you can receive email e-lerts from the Hernando County Sheriff's Office and the Emergency Management Department. By signing up for these two e-lerts you will receive useful information updates from both of these departments. These are two easy ways to keep yourself informed about what is going on in Hernando County.
Sheriff's Department e-lert
Emergency Management e-lert
Sunday, June 8, 2008
Update on Wyndsor Place
Dave Parker, president of East Linden's HOA, has let me know that they have secured a legal firm interested in pursuing a class action suit against Wyndsor Woods.
That firm will meet with interested parties on Wednesday, June 11, at 7 p.m., at the VFW hall across the street. They will be prepared to sign contracts; the scuttlebutt from Dave is that they will be looking for approximately $2,000 overall (this is a contingency agreement), thus somewhere around $100, depending on the size of the group. I believe East Linden has 10 or so participants, as do we.
If you have neighbors with an interest whose e-addresses are not shown above, please let them know of this meeting.
See you there.
Randi T. Rosmarin
norskierandi@aol.com
Monday, May 12, 2008
Update regarding Wyndsor Place - Please try to attend this meeting.
There will be a meeting this Wednesday May 13, at The VFW Hall on County Line Rd at 7:00 PM. The East Linden Subdivision is thinking of suing EPAC builders and Preston Hollow Residents are invited to attend.
FYI - About May 19, 2008 United Communities Meeting
The General Membership Meeting of United Communities of Hernando County will be held on Monday, May 19, at seven o'clock at Oak Hill Hospital. The meeting place is in the Hernando County Medical Offices Building-C, Fourth floor Conference Room of the hospital.
Our new County Administrator David Hamilton and Mark Tolbert from the Emergency Management Department will give presentations and take questions from those attending the meeting. Preston Hollow Subdivision is a member of United Communities and we encourage people to attend these informative meetings.
FYI - About Wyndsor Place
Laurel Oak Acquisitions, LLC
April 30, 2008
President, Preston Hollow HOA
To Whom It May Concern:
It has come to our attention that there have been violations to the Construction Trespass Law occurring at the Wyndsor Place subdivision. The silt fencing, which we installed for the benefit of your residents, has been deliberately ripped down. There have been incidences of people riding four wheel ATVs (kicking up sand), people using the roadway as a cut through, and most currently there have been reports of ARSON in the subdivision. The offenses occurring appear to be escalating in seriousness and we are very concerned about the safety of the adjacent homeowners. If anyone should observe any of these or other acts of malicious mischief we would request that he/she immediately call the Hernando County Sheriff’s Office ((352) 754-6830) to report the incident.
Please discuss these issues with the residents of your subdivision and let everyone know that we will prosecute any perpetrators to the fullest extent lf the law.
Sincerely,
Mark Kundrat
Managing Member
Laurel Oak Acquisitions
352-684-2283
Saturday, May 10, 2008
Press Release
May 9, 2008
Schedule of County Administrator's Community Meetings
MEDIA RELEASE
For Immediate Release
April 28, 2008
County Administrator to Hold Budget Workshops Throughout Community
Hernando County Administrator David Hamilton will hold a series of budget workshops/meetings throughout the community in May to discuss the 2009 Hernando County Government budget. The schedule is shown below.
Information will be provided on the current status of the budget as a result of the revenue reductions. The County Administrator wants to hear from residents about their priorities for county government services and additional ways expenditures might be reduced. The feedback received at these workshops will be shared with the Board of County Commissioners during upcoming budget sessions as they prepare for the July 15 budget submittal date. County Commissioners may be in attendance at the community meetings.
All of the budget workshop/meetings will be open to the public. In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, persons with disabilities needing special accommodation to participate in the meetings should contact Brenda Frazier, Community Relations Coordinator, 20 North Main Street, Room 460, Brooksville, Florida, or call (352) 540-6780. If hearing impaired, please call 1-800-676-3777.
For more information about the upcoming workshops, contact the Community Relations Office at (352) 540-6780.
Tuesday, May 6, 2008
6:30 p.m.
Lorenzo Hamilton Community Center (Kennedy Park)
899 Kennedy Blvd.
Brooksville, FL
Thursday, May 8, 2008
2:00 p.m.
Withlacoochee Bicentennial Hall
16257 Lingle Road
Istachatta, FL
Thursday, May 15, 2008
2:00 p.m.
Ridge Manor Community Center
34240 Cortez Blvd.
Brooksville, FL
Tuesday, May 20, 2008
6:30 p.m.
The Lake House Hall
1202 Kenlake Avenue
Spring Hill, FL
Thursday, May 22, 2008
2:00 p.m.
Coast Guard Auxiliary Building
4340 Calienta St.
Hernando Beach
Tuesday, May 27, 2008
6:30 p.m.
VFW Post 10209
14736 Edward R. Noll Drive
Spring Hill, FL 34609
FYI - Learn the Inner Workings of our County Government
Brenda Frazier
Community Relations Coordinator
20 North Main St., Room 460
Brooksville, Florida 34601
E-Mail: brendaf@co.hernando.fl.us
Phone: (352) 540-6780
Fax: (352) 754-4477
Press Release
May 6, 2008
Summer County Connection Program
MEDIA RELEASE
For Immediate Release
Summer County Connection Program Scheduled
May 6, 2008
The Hernando County Administrator’s Office has announced that registrations are being accepted for the summer session of the "County Connection" program which will begin on Thursday, June 5, 2008, and continue weekly thereafter through August 7th. The sessions will take place at various county facilities from 5:00 p.m until 8:00 p.m.
The "County Connection" is a ten week program which provides participants an opportunity for a "behind the scenes" look into County government. Each "session" covers a series of topics pertaining to County government services, such as transportation issues, public safety, the budget, recreation and resources, judicial services, growth and development and health and utilities services. The program emphasizes audience interaction and provides an opportunity for the public to get answers to their questions and meet County officials.
For more information and to register for the "County Connection", please call Brenda Frazier, Community Relations Coordinator, at 540 6780. You can also read about the program and register for it on Hernando County's website: http//www.co.hernando.fl.us.
Friday, May 2, 2008
Your yard wants you to sign up for classes
The Hernando County Cooperative Extension Service will offer these classes at its satellite office in the Westside Government Center, 7479 Forest Oaks Blvd., Spring Hill:
• Watering Efficiently, Tuesday.
• Choosing the Right Pesticide for the Job, May 13.
• Colorful Annuals for the Summertime Heat, May 20.
• Creating Home Compost, May 27.
These classes will be offered at the Extension office at 19490 Oliver St., Brooksville:
• Plant Propagation Made Easy, May 17.
• Groundcover Alternatives to Turf, May 24.
All classes start at 10 a.m. Registration is required for classes at the Brooksville location; no registration is required for classes in Spring Hill.
For information or to register for a class, call 754-4433.
Tuesday, April 29, 2008
FYI for Preston Hollow Residents 4/28/08 thru 5/9/08
People from the Hernando County Utilities Department will be in our neighborhood for the next week or so. They will be locating and marking where their water valves are in our subdivision. The could call code enforcement if someone is watering when they shouldn't be.
Thanks to Bob Cooper for the tip.
Friday, April 25, 2008
United Communites Meeting this Monday 4/28 everyone is welcome to attend
April 2008
The General Membership Meeting of United Communities of Hernando County will be held on Monday, April 28, at seven o'clock in the evening. The meetings are held at Oak Hill Hospital in the Medical Offices Building-C on the fourth floor.
The guest speaker for the evening will be Congresswoman Ginny Brown-Waite. Congresswoman Brown-Waite will be speaking on current issues facing Hernando County residents. After her presentation there will be a question and answer period.
Please come and join us and learn something new.
Please encourage your fellow members to come to UCHC meetings. A wealth of information is always available that can be helpful in the operation of your association.
Thursday, April 24, 2008
FYI About Maintaining Your Florida Lawn and Landscape
BROOKSVILLE
Learn best ways to manage your lawn
A free class, Maintaining Your Florida Lawn and Landscape, will be presented at 10 a.m. Saturday at the Hernando County Cooperative Extension Service, 19490 Oliver St.
Participants will learn the best management practices for irrigation, fertilization and pest control.
Registration is required. Call 754-4433.
Spring Cleaning and Sprucing Up of Common Area's have begun.
We would like to thank the Company that did such great work for us.
Reed's Pressure Cleaning
25461 Croom Rd
Brooksville, FL 34601-5003
Phone: (352)799-1588
Cell: (352) 585-3003
From the Preston Hollow Board of Directors
April 18, 2008
Preston Hollow Board of Directors Spring Update
Recently we’ve heard questions and comments about Preston Hollow, in some cases critical. We felt it appropriate to address these and to also share current news concerning our Association and activities planned for the remainder of the year.
One of the questions was “What do the members get for their dues”? Attached is the Treasure’s report that was provided at our March 18th homeowners’ meeting. This new format provides greater detail on the Association’s income and expenses. Our Treasurer, Margaret Greco, reported that we had sixteen property owners who were still delinquent in paying this year’s dues. That’s basically one out of every six-property owners. If an owner remains delinquent, the association incurs additional administrative expenses to issue subsequent warnings and attorney’s fees when necessary associated with the filing of a property lien. Since the last meeting, the number has reduced to five whom yet to pay. The subsequent reminder notices were mailed to these five, which is an additional and unnecessary expense that the members shoulder.
We’ve also received unfavorable comments concerning the deterioration of our entranceway, especially the lawn areas bordering Preston Hollow Drive as it connects to County Line Road. Our lawn care company has fertilized the grass and we’re replacing the damaged areas with new sod. The irrigation system zones have been repaired to ensure balanced and thorough watering when it’s permissible to do so. The entranceway is Hernando County property and we cannot restrict drivers who park or turn around on the grassy area, run over sprinkler heads or use it as their personal trash dump. We can ask those drivers who are parked in this area to move their vehicle but recommend using an approach that is non-confrontational. Additional plantings and color will be added at the base of the large entranceway signs now that the signs have been pressure-cleaned and painted.
Next week the common area sidewalks that border all three retention zones will be pressure-cleaned by a pressure-washing company. Based upon a homeowner comment, this is also a great time of the year for each property owner to check the cleanliness of his or her own sidewalks and driveway and pressure-wash where necessary. An informal inventory recently taken revealed numerous sidewalks and driveways that requires attention.
The 43 crepe myrtle trees that bracket Preston Hollow Drive are in need of attention. We’re exploring ways to have them replaced either through a state or local extension service or a homeowner “adopt-a-tree” program.
Another project this year involves homeowner lawns and groundskeeping. We’ve notified eight owners that their lawns have noticeably deteriorated. Even though we’re on mandated water restrictions, we are fortunate that above-average rainfall has fallen so far this year and hope that continues. In the meantime, this is a great time of the year to get our homesteads in shape for spring. With falling home values, it’s in all of our best interests to protect our investments.
Lastly is a request to provide a household email address for use by the homeowners’ association in lieu of a stamp when sending out newsletters. Using email where we are able will reduce our postage expenses. Please forward your email address to our Secretary, Susan Goebels, at goebels@tampabay.rr.com.
Regards:
Preston Hollow Board of Directors
2008 Hurricane Expo - "Mitigate in 2008"
MEDIA RELEASE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
2008 Hurricane Expo
April 22, 2008
Hernando County Emergency Management in cooperation with Weeki Wachee Springs, Hernando Today / Tampa Tribune, WFLA Channel 8 and the American Red Cross will host a fun-filled family-oriented Hurricane Expo at Weeki Wachee Springs on Saturday, May 31st from 9 AM – 2 PM.
Admission to Weeki Wachee Springs will be free that day for the Expo and the River Boat Ride, Mermaid Shows, & Animal shows. There will also be music, games and face painting for kids, contests and lots more! Food and cold drinks will be available.
WFLA News Channel 8 Meteorologist Steve Jerve will discuss how families can be prepared for the upcoming hurricane season.
This year’s Expo theme is "Mitigate in 2008". There will be presentations and information available on home preparation, preparing a disaster supply kit / family plan, proper insurance coverage, and having an evacuation plan for pets and animals during severe weather.
Vendors for preparedness / home retrofit products and other personal disaster preparedness services will be available. Any vendors who would like to participate should call Cecilia Patella at 754-4083 or go to http://www.hernandocounty.us/em/AnnualExpo.htm
Come join the fun and learn about hurricanes and other hazards and how to protect your home and family.
Don’t miss the hurricane simulator and experience what a category 1 hurricane feels like!
For general information about the Hurricane Expo call Emergency Management at 754-4083 or visit our web page at: http://www.hernandocounty.us/em/
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Emergency Management www.hernandocounty.us/em/AnnualExpo.htm
Friday, March 21, 2008
Information from the Southwest Florida Water Management District
Easy tips to tune up your irrigation system and improve efficiency
Wednesday, March 12, 2008
Welcoming Comittee
In addition to earlier items posted we will also be looking for volunteers for a Welcoming Committee to welcome anyone moving into our lovely community. We will be taking suggestions as to what we should include in our our Welcoming Packet. Some suggestions so far include:
A Welcoming Letter
Current Newsletter
Curreny Homeowners Meeting Minutes
Preston Hollow Phone Directory
Deed Restrictions
Any help with this Committee and your suggestions would really be appreciated.
Prescription Drug Assistance
Civic Agencies • Social Services • Community Leaders
Partnership for Prescription Assistance
may be able to help.
Come find out if you may qualify for one or more of 475 patient assistance programs, many of which offer free or nearly free prescription medicines for those in need.
There's a fast, free and convenient way to see if you may qualify…
The "Help Is Here Express” is Coming!
Tuesday, March 25, 2008
10am-noon
Nature Coast Community Health Center
300 South Main Street, Brooksville
The “Help is Here Express” is equipped with computer terminals and phones so people can find out (for free) if they may be eligible for help. Trained specialists will be on board to make sure the process is quick and easy.
Sunday, March 9, 2008
PRESTON HOLLOW HERALD - MARCH 2008
• The Gopher Problem in the retention areas will be discussed at the meeting. We are looking for input form the residents as to how to proceed with this matter. This is a cost issue.
• Volunteers are being sought for the Deed Restriction Committee. Please attend the March 18th meeting so that we can determine the interest for participating in this committee.
• There are currently six (6) homes with unpaid annual assessments. These assessments were due no later than January 31st. Interest is currently accruing on delinquent accounts and unpaid assessments are lienable. If you are delinquent, please contact Margaret Grecco to take care of this matter.
• Discussion regarding selection of Attorney to handle HOA matters
• Lawn Cutting and Maintenance of front entry way and retention ponds
• Irrigation repairs and maintenance
• Pest Control
• Electricity for street lights and entrance way lighting
• Postage and office supplies
• Insurance
• Attorney Fees
• Corporate Tax Filing
Thank you to Al Walker, Tim Butler, Joe Groeneveld, Henry Waller and John Cucinella, who participated in the pressure washing and painting of the front entrance wall. Great job!
Spring is upon us! It’s time to spruce up the lawn. Remember that the swales (area between the sidewalk & street) are the responsibility of each homeowner – Duty to maintain a neat and attractive appearance.
- ACC Guideline - Lot/Unit owners shall regularly maintain their sod and landscaping by, but not limited to, mowing, edging, weeding, and watering on a regular basis.
- Gopher Tip - To stop or reduce the number of gopher holes, try this… Force all the dirt from the mound back into the hole. Use a garden hose to push the dirt back into the hole.
- Parking - If a homeowner has a reason for extended parking of a trailer, RV or the like, please contact the ACC.
- ACC Guideline / Parking Restriction - In order to preserve the value if the properties and attractiveness of the community, all campers, tents, trailers, boats, recreational vehicles and motorcycles must be parked or stored in enclosed garages out of sight from the public unless prior written consent to the contrary has been obtained from the Architectural Control Committee.
No healthy, living trees larger than 3 inches in diameter (9 ½ inches circumference at chest height) shall be cut down or removed from Properties other than those standing within an area to be cleared or excavated for the erection of a building and accessory improvements thereon without the written consent of the Architectural Control Committee and any applicable Government authorities. Subject to this exception, if any tree is cut down, removed or damages without the prior written consent of the Architectural Control Committee, the Owner responsible for the destruction of the tree, shall pay a fine of Two Hundred Dollars ($200.00) per tree and will forthwith replace the tree under the supervision and to the satisfaction of the Architectural Control Committee as to type, size, and location of planting of the replacement tree. No trees shall be cut down to add any other structure on said lot.
Let us all continue to preserve the value of the properties and attractiveness of the Preston Hollow community.
Tuesday, February 26, 2008
LOW INCOME SENIOR EXEMPTION
LOW INCOME SENIOR EXEMPTION
The Low Income Senior Exemption will provide an additional Homestead Exemption of $50,000. This exemption applies at this time only to the property taxes levied by the Board of County Commissioners.
ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS
Homeowners must have a current Homestead Exemption.
At least one owner must be 65 years of age or older as of January 1st of the year filing.
Provide proof of age (one of the following listed below)
If you drive, a Florida Driver’s License or
If you do not drive, a Florida Identification Card or
A copy of your Birth Certificate or other official and/or certified record of document that demonstrates the applicant’s true age.
Total Household Adjusted Gross Income must not exceed $24,916 last year (2007). (Subsequent years income limitation will be adjusted annually.)
HOUSEHOLD AND TOTAL HOUSEHOLD ADJUSTED GROSS INCOME
Definitions: 2007-Ch0196-Section 075#0196.075"Section 196.075, Florida Statutes. Additional Homestead Exemption of persons 65 and older.
“Household” means a person or group of persons living together in a room or group of rooms as a housing unit, but the term does not include persons boarding in or renting a portion of the dwelling.
“Household income” means the adjusted gross income, as defined in Section 62 of the United States Internal Revenue Code, of all members of a household. (This is the “Adjusted Gross Income” amount reported on IRS Form 1040.)
YOU MUST APPLY BY MARCH 1st
File your application in person or by mail on or before March 1st.
All documentation required to verify Total Household Adjusted Gross Income must be submitted on or before June 1st.
Note: If all the required documentation is available, please submit with your initial application.
DOCUMENTATION REQUIRED
If a Tax Return is filed:
1. Complete the Sworn Statement of Adjusted Gross Income of Household and Return (Form 501SC) – Part A, Part C, Part D and sign the application.
2. Provide a copy of the Federal Income Tax return for the preceding year for each household member, including but not limited to Form 1040, 1040A, 1040EZ, or 4868. Please submit with the copy of the Federal Income Tax return all supporting documentation including 1099 (i.e., 1099-B, 1099-DIV, 1099-G, 1099-INT, 1099-MISC, 1099-R, 1099-SSA, etc.).
If a Tax Return is not filed:
1. Complete the Sworn Statement of Adjusted Gross Income of Household and Return (Form DR 501SC) – Part A, Part B, Part D, and Part E and sign the application.
2. Complete the Request for Transcript of Tax Return (Form 4506-T) – lines 1 – 4 and sign the form.
3. Provide copies of the preceding calendar year wage earnings statements for each member of the household, including but not limited to W-2, RRB-1042S, SSA-1042S, 1099, (i.e., 1099-B, 1099-DIV, 1099-G, 1099-INT, 1099-MISC, 1099-R, 1099-SSA, etc.) 1999A.
FILE AT THE SUPERVISORS OF ELECTION BY MARCH 1ST
Bring all your documentation to either of the office locations at:
201 Howell Avenue, Suite 300
Brooksville, Fl 34601-2041
Phone (352) 754-4190
Fax (352) 754-4198
Hours Monday to Friday
8:00 AM to 5:00 PM
7525 Forest Oaks Boulevard
Spring Hill, Fl 34606-2400
Phone (352) 754-4190
Fax (352) 688-5088
Hours Monday to Friday
8:00 AM to 4:45 PM
Wednesday, January 16, 2008
January 2008 Newsletter
Preston Hollow Herald Newsletter January 2008
Next Homeowners Meeting: The next HOA meeting is Tuesday, January 15th. Al & Marion Walker have offered to open their home for this meeting; their address is 86 Forest Wood Court. Meeting time is 7:00 pm.
Congratulations to Al Walker and Alan Setelius for their re-election as Vice Presidents and to Margaret Greco to the position of Treasurer. I think many of the homeowners that attended the annual meeting were surprised to find out that so many of the things we take for granted have been provided by other homeowners and not outsourced (I’ll bet you were wondering why our dues were so low!!) Thank you, to all who volunteer their time and efforts to keep Preston Hollow a place we are all proud to call home….we love the fact that we don’t pay $500.00 as some communities do.
Speaking of Volunteer Appreciation on December 15th a group of our fellow Homeowners volunteered their time and effort to beautify our front entrance…saving the rest of us $750.00!! THANK YOU, Al Walker, Henry Waller, John Cucinella, Joe & Lisa Groeneveld, Philip Goebel, Carlos Manrique, Tim & Cathy Butler, Jesse Cash, & Tom Masson who provided doughnuts and coffee for the workers.
From the ACC: At the annual association meeting in November, HEDGE height was discussed. Many homeowners have hedges of the Viburnum type. These hedges are very fast growing and require frequent trimming. Please keep in mind that the deed restrictions state that hedges shall not be over 6ft. in height Please keep Preston Hollow Beautiful. Remember all Deed Restrictions are available on line, at the Hernando County.
ASSOCIATION DUES: As many of you are aware the Association Dues have increased to $235.00 per year. The notices have been mailed out and are due and payable now, so let’s get those checks in the mail and keep the dues low for next year.
From the Southwest Florida Management District
Southwest Florida Water Management District urges residents to prepare for a severe drought
The Southwest Florida Water Management District is urging all homeowners in the 16-county area to prepare your lawns now for potentially record-breaking drought conditions this spring.
The District has been consistently receiving below-average rainfall since January 2006. As a result, the District's water resources, such as the aquifers, rivers and lakes, are all far below where they should be. Now climatologists are predicting La Nina conditions, which are expected to result in a drier than normal fall, winter and spring.
The District issued an emergency water shortage order in January 2007, which restricts lawn watering to one-day-per-week. In addition to following the restrictions, the District is encouraging homeowners to take several measures this winter that will not only conserve water but will also protect your property by training your lawns to use less water. Using less water will encourage deeper grass and plant roots, making your lawns more drought-tolerant this spring when conditions may be at their worst.
Some simple steps you can take include:
• Checking your irrigation system to make sure it is operating efficiently and you are watering the landscaping, not paved areas
• Raising your mower height to encourage grass roots to grow deeper and hold moisture longer
• Skipping a week of irrigation during the cooler months, when your lawn doesn't need as much water
The District is encouraging residents to use water as efficiently as possible during the dry season. For more simple tips on conserving water both indoors and outdoors, as well as information on Florida-friendly landscaping, visit the District's web site WaterMatters.org/drought or contact your county extension office.
Sincerely,
Sylvia Durell
Project manager, Florida-friendly landscaping
Southwest Florida Water Management District