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