Holiday Recycling Information

Holiday Recycling Information

The Hernando County Utilities, Solid Waste Division, encourages you to remember to recycle after the holidays. Recycle your live Christmas trees by bringing them to the main landfill on U.S. 98 or to the east or west convenience centers during normal business hours. The trees will be mulched which is the best form of recycling. Trees picked up curbside will not be recycled. Remember that all stands, lights, decorations including the metal hooks, and tinsel must be removed from the tree. If your Christmas tree is a live one with a root ball, please plant it!!

All wrapping paper is also recyclable. Artificial Christmas trees cannot be recycled, so place those with your regular garbage.

Below are the hours of operation for the solid waste facilities:

Northwest Solid Waste Management Facility:
14450 Landfill Road
Brooksville, FL 34614
(10 Miles North of Brooksville on west side of US 98 North.)
(352) 754-4112 FAX (352) 754-4118
Hours: Monday - Saturday (except holidays)
8:00 A.M. to 4:30 P.M.
Closed on Sundays

East Hernando Convenience Center
(Residential use only):
33070 Cortez Blvd.
Ridge Manor FL 33523
(352) 540-6205 Fax (352) 583-2783
(South side of S.R. 50, East Cortez Blvd.
East of Withlacoochee River and approximately 1/2 mile west of U.S. 98)
Hours: Tuesday - Saturday (except holidays)
9:00am - 5:00pm
Closed on Sundays & Mondays

West Hernando Convenience Center
(Residential use only):
2525 Osowaw Boulevard
(Just west of U.S. Highway 19)
(352) 754-4770 FAX (352) 688-5008
Hours: Tuesday - Saturday (except holidays)
9:00am - 5:00pm.
Closed on Sundays and Mondays

2011 Water Awareness Series Session

For Immediate Release
December 21, 2010

The Hernando County Utilities Department and Citizens for W.A.T.E.R. invite the public to the Hernando County Water Awareness Series 2010 presentation on Friday, January 7, 2011, from 10:00 AM to Noon at the Hernando County Utilities Department, 21030 Cortez Blvd., Brooksville, FL 34601.

The topic for the January 7th session is: What you need to know about Rain Water Harvesting and Alternative Water Supplies (AWS). Could cisterns be an answer for your additional irrigation needs? Learn more about the new technology for this ancient way to catch and store rainwater. We will also learn about: What are Alternative Water Supplies or (AWS)? Why are they necessary? An overview from Tampa Bay Water’s experience. The seminar will be presented by:
Brian Gregson, Rainwater Services, St. Petersburg Florida and Dave Bracciano, Tampa Bay Water, Clearwater, Florida

Everyone is welcome to attend this important educational seminar. Light refreshments will be provided.

Homeowners Association questions answered

Q: I am told that, under Florida law, our homeowner association assessments cannot be raised more than 15 percent a year. True or false? If true, to what agency do I go to stop them from increasing it by multiples of 15 percent? It seems ludicrous to hire a lawyer for this.

C.W., Fort Lauderdale

A: The statute does address large increases in assessments, however. If the expense section of the budget, not including reserves, results in a 115 percent increase in assessments over the previous fiscal year, members can require the board to hold a special owners' meeting to consider a substitute budget.

This is a tricky process, with time limits imposed on the owners for calling for the meeting, serving notice to all owners, etc. If they succeed in that, they must have a quorum at the meeting, and if they come up with a new budget, it must be approved by a majority of voting interests. For homeowners associations there is no state agency to report board violations.

Q: Our Master Association just increased our annual fee for 2011. Can the residents refuse to pay this amount and place it in an escrow account while they try to negotiate a more realistic figure?

Can the Master Association close the only entrance and exit road to our homes if we put the money in an escrow account? What would we do to set up this account if the Master Association does not ban us from reaching our homes?

E.K., Tampa

A: No, the board cannot close the roads but it does have the authority to take even more drastic action. It can lien and foreclose on your home, even if you have the money in an escrow account — if the account was not court ordered. You would be considered delinquent on your fees. Not paying fees because you do not like the increase is not a valid reason to stop payments. You have other options for addressing the board and its decisions.

Richard White is a licensed community association manager. He does not offer legal opinions; any other questions and comments concerning association operations can be sent to Richard White, 6039 Cypress Gardens Blvd., No. 201, Winter Haven FL 33884-4115;

Hard Freeze Warning for Hernando County Tonight

Hard Freeze Warning for Hernando County Tonight
Hernando County Emergency Management has passed along this hard freeze warning which is in effect from 1am through 9am Tuesday for Hernando County.

Tonight, temperatures will fall quickly after sunset with values below freezing before midnight and lasting until mid-morning on Tuesday. Many locations will receive 8 or more hours of freezing temperatures, with the coldest temperatures reaching the lower to mid 20s in the normally coldest inland locations away from the cities. 1 to 4 hours of freezing temperatures in the lower 30s is expected at the beaches and larger cities.

Extremely low temperatures are forecast for the remainder of the week, so please monitor the local media and advisories. Hernando County Emergency Management has provided the attached cold weather tips.

Once again, residents should cover or move indoors any cold sensitive plants and bring pets indoors this evening. For tips on protecting plants from cold temperatures, visit
http://extension.hernandocounty.us/index.php?option=com_content&view=category&layout=blog&id=14&Itemid=12

Jericho Road Ministries, located at 1090 Mondon Hill Road, Brooksville, will be open for anyone needing shelter from the cold. The phone number for Jericho Road Ministries is (352) 799-2912.

Freeze Warning/Cold Weather Shelter

Freeze Warning/Cold Weather Shelter
MEDIA RELEASE
For Immediate Release
December 2, 2010
2:30 p.m.

Hernando County Freeze Warning/Cold Weather Shelter

The Hernando County Sheriff's Office Emergency Management Division has advised that the National Weather Service is predicting a freeze warning for Hernando County from 2 AM TO 8 AM Friday, December 3rd. A freeze warning is issued for 3 or more hours of temperatures between 27 and 32 over a widespread area.

Tonight into Friday morning, temperatures will fall below freezing across inland portions of Levy, Citrus, Sumter and Hernando Counties. Temperatures will drop below freezing after 2 a.m. Friday morning and remain there until around 8 a.m. with the lows bottoming out in the mid to upper 20's around sunrise.

Residents should cover or move indoors any cold sensitive plants and bring pets indoors this evening.

Jericho Road Ministries, located at 1090 Mondon Hill Road, Brooksville, will be open for anyone needing shelter from the cold. The phone number for Jericho Road Ministries is (352) 799-2912.

For more information about Hernando County's preparations for the cold weather may be obtained by calling Emergency Management at (352) 754-4083.

Three Month Appeals Period Begins for Updated Flood Maps

Three Month Appeals Period Begins for Updated Flood Maps
MEDIA RELEASE
For Immediate Release
December 1, 2010

Three-Month Appeal Period Begins for Updated Hernando County Flood Maps

The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has notified Hernando County that December 3rd is the beginning date for the three-month time period during which residents may file appeals and protests pertaining to the new digital flood hazard maps which were released last summer. The maps were developed by the Southwest Florida Water Management District (SWFWMD), in partnership with FEMA and Hernando County and show the extent to which areas throughout Hernando County are at risk for flooding. Used to help determine flood insurance and building requirements, the new maps replace maps that are approximately 25 years old.

The process included an extensive, multi-year review of the changes brought about by environmental, land use and other forces, the use of state-of-the-art aerial mapping and risk modeling techniques, and a comprehensive pre- and post-release review.

Residents and business owners can use the maps to obtain reliable information about their flood risk on a property-by-property basis. The maps also provide flood zone and elevation data to help community planners, engineers, builders and others decide where and how new structures, developments, and remodeling projects should be built.

The maps may be viewed online at www.hernandocounty.us/floodmap or in person at the Development Services Department, 789 Providence Blvd., Brooksville, Florida. The maps were displayed at two public workshops last August. Property owners are encouraged to check out the new flood maps and how their flood risk may have changed. Even though the maps are highly accurate, it is possible that owners may have more current or better data. If a property owner believes that the map is inaccurate regarding their property, they may file an appeal. Scientific or technical data must be submitted in support of the appeal. More information for filing an appeal is available at http://www.hernandocounty.us/floodmap/factsheets.asp or by calling the Flood Map Information Line at (352) 540-6300.

Residents can learn more about the new flood maps at a workshop on Friday, December 3, 2010, at 10 a.m. at the Hernando County Utilities Administration Building, 21010 Cortez Blvd., Brooksville, Florida. Representatives from FEMA, Hernando County and SWFWMD will be on hand to explain the map updates and answer questions.

Lawn Irrigation Advice for the Winter Months

Lawn Irrigation Advice for the Winter Months
MEDIA RELEASE
For Immediate Release
December 1, 2010

District asks homeowners to "Skip a Week" of irrigation this winter

Overwatering in winter can encourage pests and disease

The Southwest Florida Water Management District is reminding residents who irrigate their lawns to “Skip a Week” of watering during the cooler months of December, January and February.

According to research by the University of Florida, grass doesn’t need to be watered as often during the cooler months. One-half to three-quarters of an inch of water every 10–14 days is sufficient. In fact, if your lawn has received any significant rainfall, then you can turn off your irrigation system and operate it manually as needed.

“Overwatering in the winter can encourage pests and disease in your lawn,” said Sylvia Durell, Florida-friendly landscaping project manager. Skipping a week of watering is as easy as “off” for residents with irrigation timers. “Turn the timer to ‘off’ for the week that you want to skip, and ‘on’ for the week that you want to water,” said Durell.

Homeowners can determine when their grass needs water when:

• Grass blades are folded in half lengthwise on 30 percent of the lawn.
• Grass blades are blue-gray.
• Footprints remain on the lawn for several minutes after walking on it.

Skipping a week of irrigation will help conserve drinking water supplies that the public needs for critical uses during the dry season. In fact, if everyone skipped one week of irrigation this season, it could save an estimated 1.7 billion gallons of water.

In addition to entering the dry season, the region has experienced an extremely dry fall, with dry conditions expected to continue through next spring. All 16 counties within the District are under a Phase I water shortage alert.

Christmas on Main Street" in Downtown Brooksville

Christmas on Main Street" in Downtown Brooksville
MEDIA RELEASE
For Immediate Release
November 29, 2010

The City of Brooksville and Hernando County Government invite you to join them in the 2010 "Christmas on Main Street" on Thursday, December 9, 2010, from 5:00 until 8:30 pm. Stroll down Main Street in downtown Brooksville and enjoy an old fashioned Christmas! Many downtown merchants will be open extended hours as well as offering holiday treats and entertainment! A Winter Art Gallery Reception will be held at Brooksville City Hall from 5 to 7 p.m. featuring the Hernando County High School Culinary Arts Program Cookie Contest. Enjoy a visit with Santa and Mrs. Claus at Ida Lillies just one block from City Hall and directly across from the historic Courthouse.

At 7:30 p.m. enjoy the lighting of the Courthouse Christmas Tree, followed by one hour of holiday entertainment provided by Live Oak Theatre Company, Brooksville Academy of the Arts and members of the Weeki Wachee High School Chorus. The program will be videotaped by Hernando County Government Broadcasting and aired throughout the holidays on Bright House Channel 622 and webstreamed at www.hernandocounty.us. Be sure to bring your own chairs.

PHHOA November Annual Meeting Agenda

November 16, 2010 7:00-9:30 pm

PRESTON HOLLOW HOME OWNER’S ASSOCIATION

ANNUAL MEETING AGENDA

· Kurt--Welcome and call the meeting to order. Our annual meeting; matters of general business; 2011 proposed budget to include annual assessment increase; nomination and member election of 3 Board of Directors officers; seek ACC Chairperson volunteer; Bob to route attendance sheet, to include updates for member phone numbers and/or email addresses.

· All--Pledge of Allegiance

· Board--Recognition of Alan Setelius---Stepping down as External V/P

· Bob--Secretary’s review and Board approval of official minutes from September 21st Board meeting. Verify number of attendees in good standing who are present, collect proxies, and confirm quorum or not.

· Margaret & Bob--Treasure’s report to include proposed 2011 budget including $25 annual association membership dues and status of delinquencies. Board to vote on dues increase. Discuss proposed revised collection policy developed by Bob Cooper.

· Alan--External Affairs V/P report

· Al--Internal Affairs V/P report

· Randi--Crime Watch & ACC reports

· All--Board of Directors elections (quorum of 33 required). Nominations sought as stated in the October Newsletter; none received. 3 positions are vacant for 2011. Seek nominations from the floor and vote. In addition, seek replacement for Alan’s one-year remaining term-Bob Cooper has submitted his name for consideration.

· Board--Seek volunteer for ACC Chairperson.

· Kurt--discuss HOA Management Company proposal-distribute handout

· Bob--Proposed Deed Restriction Enforcement policy; new Preston Hollow website presentation.

· All--New business

· Kurt--Adjourn

Beware of the coyote roaming Preston Hollow

There is at least one coyote that is roaming around Preston Hollow. These are wild animals and will eat small animals including cats. The County Animal Services Department will not remove these animals for us. Please be careful especially at night.

PROTECTING YOUR PLANTS FROM THE COLD

PROTECTING YOUR PLANTS FROM THE COLD

A free class “Protecting Your Plants from the Cold” will be offered by Urban Horticulture Agent, Jim Moll on Wednesday, November 17th at 10:00am. Remember last winter’s freezes? Learn how you can help prevent your plants from becoming winter casualties this year. The class will be offered at the Spring Hill Branch Library at 9220 Spring Hill Dr. No registration is required, first come, first seated.

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://extension.hernandocounty.us

Wyndsor Place Barricaded

Cortez Community Bank the current owners of Wyndsor Place have placed barricades across the Preston Hollow side of Sunset Woods Ct and the East Linden side of Hillary St. This action has effectively isolated Wyndsor Place which is deemed to be private property. Until these roads are turned over to the County they will remain private.

A Message from Kurt Naser PHHOA President

Below is today's St. Pete Times link concerning the Pasco mining operation hearing results involving County Line Rd. While we did not receive all the concessions we wanted, we did secure a few that will help mitigate the mining operation effects to County Line Rd and the neighborhood. They include a reduction in both hours and days of operation, expanded the
protection radius of our private irrigation wells, improved dust control measures and a few others.

We could not have achieved what we did achieve without all the effort and
support that our members provided. And for that, I thank you.

There are additional members such as Al Walker II & III, Mary Ann & Charlie,
Mr. Coen, Jim Demetrios, and others who were also involved for whom I lack
an email address. Nevertheless, my thanks go out to them as well.

Kurt

Annual Parking Pass Approved for Dog Park

Annual Parking Pass Approved for Dog Park
MEDIA RELEASE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
October 28, 2010

On October 26, 2010, the Hernando County Board of County Commissioners adopted a Resolution to implement an annual parking pass for the Rotary Centennial Dog Park. Effective November 1, 2010, the annual pass will be available for a fee of $30 dollars. Otherwise, there is a $1.00 per day parking meter fee at the park.

Applications for the annual pass are available at the Parks and Recreation Office at 205 East Fort Dade Avenue in Brooksville. They can also be found online at our website:

http://www.co.hernando.fl.us/Parks_Rec/Parks/feesNpasses.asp

For further information, please contact the Parks Department at 352-754-4027.

Low Income Senior Exemption

TO:HOMEOWNERS ASSOCIATION
FROM:THE DESK OF JOHN C EMERSON, CHIEF DEPUTY
SUBJECT:HERNANDO COUNTY PROPERTY APPRAISER NEWS
DATE:10/2/2010

If you own property that you will be using as your permanent and primary residence on January 1, 2011, you could reduce the Assessed Value of your homestead property by up to $50,000. This could result in a tax savings of approximately $600 annually.
Our office is accepting exemption applications for the 2011 Tax Year until March 1st, 2011.

The Low Income Senior Exemption is an additional exemption of up to $50,000 for those 65 years old and above, have a current Homestead Exemption and meet the Total Household Adjusted Gross Income limitation (2009 was $25,780). You can call our office at 352-754-4190 for details on what you will need to qualify for the Homestead and Low Income Senior Exemptions.

Full details of all the available exemptions can be found on our website, under the Homestead and Other Exemptions tab at the top of the home page www.hernandocounty.us/pa

Here's the latest update on the Pasco Mining Project

Here’s the latest update for those who were unable to attend today’s public hearing on the Pasco Mining Project portion of the new Woodfield Subdivision on the Pasco side of County Line Rd...

We had an excellent public turnout again today for the second hearing. When we arrived and settled in the chamber room, the developer who is Woodfield LLC, through a Pasco staff member, announced a request for a continuance. It was granted by Pasco DRC. The developer is permitted only one continuance under the Code and no more. The new hearing date is October 21, 2010 at 1:30 p.m., same location. Our attendees left their collective contact information with Pasco staff so that we may be advised of delays for some other reason going-forward.

Also, a St. Pete Times Staff Writer, Lisa Buie , made an appearance and is aware of our interests (attached).

Thanks for all your continued interest with this project. We must make good use of the intervening time in achieving commitments for support. This includes groups such as our elected local and state officials, those running for an office here in Hernando, our local press, other HOA’s, and businesses who share the use of County Line Rd.

Kurt

Things we would Pasco DRC to consider in granting a permit

September 23, 2010
Pasco County DRC
Woodfield Subdivision Mine

(Parcel 05-24-18-0000-00400-0000)

In granting the mining permit, request Pasco DRC’s consideration to the following options:

*Designate an alternate traffic method for the trucks in lieu of County Line Road-C.R. 578. Example, Bowman Rd to US 41.

*expand the developers liability for damaged private wells due to proposed mining and construction activity from 500 feet currently to a 1,500 ft radius.

*require the developer to install and maintain adequate dust control measures such as grass or other means during the construction, sand hauling and home building periods.

*limit hours of operation for mining activities to those daylight hours between 9:00 a.m. & 5:00 p.m., Mon. through Fri. No mining activities on Sat., Sun., or Pasco County designated holidays

*place permit limits upon the total amount of sand moved/removed equal to the amount necessary for the construction of the 3 water retentions areas, i.e., 146,000 cubic yards (est.) vs. 650,000 cubic yards.

Attention all Preston Hollow Homeowners'

Pasco Variance Hearing Continues

The Pasco County Development Resource Council (DRC) held a public hearing for a permit and variance application on August 26th as scheduled. Attendees included approximately sixteen Preston Hollow owners and/or HOA Board/ACC members. There were representatives from the Wellington HOA Board and Leisure Hills homeowners as well. All that attended who desired to speak publically to the Pasco DRC were permitted to do so.

A South Florida developer, Woodfield Properties, Inc., has applied for a permit to mine 650,000 cubic yards of fill dirt from their residential development site of 78 acres and a variance to greatly reduce the perimeter border setbacks for planned home construction. The acreage in question is located in Pasco County on the south side of County Line Road, about half-way between Mariner Blvd. and the Veterans’ Expressway. The County Line Road entrance to Preston Hollow is nearby. Many months ago, Pasco County authorized the rezoning of this property from Agricultural to Residential for the proposed 75 one-acre home sites. The developer has a number of years to build out the development with homes. The proposed development plan calls for the creation of three retention areas, one of which is located on the north border with County Line Road. The retention areas only require the excavation and removal of approximately 146,000 cubic yards of fill dirt to make the areas viable for water control. However, the developer intends to haul out and sell all 650,000 cubic yards of fill material from the site in the meantime which is their right to do. All the fill dirt is projected to be removed over the course of a one-year period using County Line Road as the entrance and exit points to the mining area. Depending on the size of the earth-moving vehicle, this would require the use of 25,000 to 36,000 truckloads of additional large truck traffic added to existing County Line Road traffic, moving in an out of the mining area over that period of time. Left and right-hand turn lanes are to be installed during the excavation & removal period. Hours of operation are projected to be from 7am to 5 pm six days a week if the permit and variance are granted. Sundays and Pasco holidays are non-hauling days.

Preston Hollow attendees who spoke asked the Pasco County DRC the following:

• designate an alternate traffic method for the trucks in lieu of using County Line Road.
• expand the developers liability for damaged wells due to mining from the proposed 500 feet to a 1,000 ft radius.
• require the developer to install and maintain ground cover such as grass or other means to control dust once the fill dirt is removed.
  

As a result of the DRC’s traffic study issues and other questions left unanswered by the Pasco County support staff members who were also in attendance, the DRC scheduled a second public hearing for September 23, 2010 @ 1:30 to continue the public discussions. The hearing location is the West Pasco Government Center Board Room, First Floor, 7530 Little Road, New Port Richey, Fl. The more members that attend the hearing the better in terms of having our voices heard. The Preston Hollow Board has also asked the support and involvement of our local County commission and State representatives.

Attention all Preston Hollow Homeowners'

Attention all Preston Hollow Homeowners'

Woodfield Properties LLC. which owns a large parcel of property just west of Preston Hollow on the Pasco side of County Line Road has applied for a zoning change. The property is currently zoned Agricultural with the developers applying for a Class 3 Development Permit along with a Mining Permit. The Preston Hollow Board is asking for your help by attending this meeting to voice your concerns. If you have any questions please contact any Board Member and we hope to see many of you there. The meeting information is posted below.

Thanks,

Preston Hollow Homeowners' Association Board Members

Event Name - DRC/Zoning Variance Meeting
Event Date and Time - August 26, 2010 starting at 1:30 PM
Event Location - West Pasco Government Center
Room - Board Room located on the First Floor
Street Address - 7530 Little Road
City - New Port Richey, Florida

Mosquito Advisory

Mosquito Advisory

Contact:
Al Gray, MPH
Environmental Health Manager
Hernando County Health Dept.
352-540-6802
or
Guangye Hu, Ph.D.
Hernando County Mosquito Control
352-754-4060

Local Health Experts Caution Residents About
Mosquito-Borne Illness

Brooksville- State surveillance data has indicated a continued rise in mosquito-borne illness cases, such as West Nile virus (WNV), Eastern Equine Encephalitis(EEE)and Highlands J virus (HJV). Recently a number of horses, birds and now, two people have died from such illnesses in nearby counties.

Hernando County Mosquito Control and the Hernando County Health Department want to remind area residents and visitors to be vigilant about mosquito bite prevention.

According to Dr. Guangye Hu, Hernando Mosquito Control Director, “residents can reduce the risk of being bitten by mosquitoes by following the 5 D’s for prevention. These prevention steps include:

¨ Dawn and Dusk- Avoid being outdoors when mosquitoes are seeking blood. For many species, this is during the dusk and dawn hours.
¨ Dress- Wear clothing that covers most of your skin.
¨ DEET- When the potential exists for exposure to mosquitoes, repellents containing DEET (N, N-diethyl-meta-toluamide, or N, N-diethyl-3-methylbenzamide) are recommended. Picaridin and oil of lemon eucalyptus are other repellent options.
¨ Drain- Check around your home to rid the area of all standing water. Mosquitoes can lay their eggs in as little as 1/4" of water. Make sure that pools and spas have continuous circulation and appropriate chlorination to prevent mosquitoes from laying eggs.

For additional mosquito control information, visit http://www.hernandocounty.us/mosquito/

Community Meetings Scheduled to Review FY 2010-2011 Budget

Community Meetings Scheduled to Review FY 2010-2011 Budget

During the month of August, Hernando County residents will have the opportunity to meet with the County Administrator and review the proposed FY 2010-2011 budget for Hernando County government.

During a series of three public meetings scheduled at various locations, County Administrator David Hamilton and Director of Budget and Administrative Services George Zoettlein will present the tentative budget and address comments and questions from those in attendance.

The budget is scheduled for formal review and approval at two public hearings – September 14th and September 28th. Prior to that, the Board will be discussing the budget on July 13th, July 27 and August 17th during their regular County Commission meetings held in the Hernando County Government Center, 20 N. Main Street, Brooksville, Florida. To see the entire Budget Calendar, visit: http://www.hernandocounty.us/bocc/budget/

For additional information about the community meetings, please contact the Community Relations Office at 540-6780.

Tuesday, August 24
6:30 p.m.
East Hernando Branch Library Meeting Room
6457 Windmere Rd.
Brooksville, FL

Wednesday, August 25
1:30 p.m.
VFW Post 10209
Edward R. Knoll Drive
Brooksville, FL

Thursday, August 26
1:30 p.m.
Hernando Beach VFW Post 9236
3435 Shoal Line Blvd.
Hernando Beach, FL

Hernando County Maintains One-Day-Per-Week Watering Rule

Hernando County Maintains One-Day-Per-Week Watering Rule

MEDIA RELEASE
For Immediate Release
July 28, 2010

The Hernando County Board of County Commissioners adopted an ordinance at a public hearing on Tuesday, July 27, 2010, setting the year-round watering restrictions for one-day-per-week. The Southwest Florida Water Management District (SWFWD) enacted a twice-per-week watering rule effective July 1st; however, each county within the district may enact their own restrictions which may be more restrictive but not less. The Board voted 3-2 in favor of the new ordinance.

Although lawn watering has been allowed two days per week since July 1st when SWFWMD enacted its new rule, Hernando County Code Enforcement will now return to enforcement of the one-day-per-week rule. "We want to make sure that our residents fully understand that we are staying with the one-day-per-week rule which has been in effect for the past 3 1/2 years," said Jean Rags, Health & Human Services Director.

If your address ends with: You may water only on:
0 or 1 Monday
2 or 3 Tuesday
4 or 5 Wednesday
6 or 7 Thursday
8 or 9 Friday

You may water only before 8:00 AM or after 6:00 PM.

For more information about Hernando County's watering restrictions, call (352) 754-4037.

"Lawn Care Made Easy"

"Lawn Care Made Easy" horticulture class: 10 a.m., Spring Hill Branch/Harold G. Zopp Memorial Library, 9220 Spring Hill Drive. Presented by Urban Horticulture Agent Jim Moll with the Hernando County Cooperative Extension Service. Participants learn simple, inexpensive lawn care practices that will save time, money and water. Free. (352) 754-4433.

Our July Meeting

HOA Meeting

Our July Meeting has been cancelled, as several Board Members are unavailable.

Our next meeting will be Tuesday, September 21st @ 7:00 PM.

DESIGN GUIDELINE CHANGES

DESIGN GUIDELINE CHANGES

The Board of Directors recently modified the Design Guidelines to include the use of earth/neutral tone concrete pavers for driveway areas.

Please note:

Article VII, Section 21, states in part, “All sidewalks are to be constructed with uniformity of location and material”

Article VII, Section 21a, SIDEWALK MAINTENANCE. Sidewalks constructed as set forth shall be maintained by the “Association”. The Board of Directors shall deem an appropriate fee for such maintenance in accordance with Article XV.

The Board of Directors has also taken into account the American Disability Act. Sidewalks are to be constructed with a smooth and level surface. This is to insure that anyone using a wheel chair or walking with a cane, walker, or other equipment will have a safer and level path to follow.

In conclusion, public sidewalks that transect a paver driveway are to be of uniform concrete construction and the use of concrete pavers is not permissible. Therefore, the Preston Hollow Board of Directors does not approve the use of concrete driveway pavers on the public sidewalk areas.

An FYI from the Hernando County Property Appraiser's Office

The Hernando County Property Appraiser's Office would like to provide residents in your community with property value information, important notices and deadline dates that may benefit them and educate them about our office and what we do. Our office submitted the 2010 Preliminary taxable values to the taxing authorities on June 29, 2010. The preliminary taxable value countywide saw a 12.1% reduction over last year from $9,325,713,565 down to $8,195,425,577.

January 1st is the date of assessment. We will use sales that took place in 2009 for the value that will appear on the 2010 TRIM Notices. This is called assessing in arrears.There were 1,741 homes that sold in 2009 for an average sale price of $130,864. This is 18.33% less than the $160,237 average sale price in 2008. Looking at new construction, there were 149 single family home permits pulled in 2009. This is down from 378 in 2008 and considerably less than the 4,344 in 2005.

The 2010 Notice of Proposed Property Taxes (TRIM) will be mailed August 13, 2010. TRIM is an acronym for Truth in Millage. The notice will have last year's (2009) value, this year's proposed value along with last year's Millage Rate and this year's proposed Millage Rates. The taxing authorities are responsible for setting your Millage Rates which will establish your taxes as shown on the TRIM Notice.

The non ad valorem assessments, e.g. solid waste and fire assessments will also be listed.

Vandalism in Preston Hollow

During the night of Wednesday 6/30/2010 there was some vandalism done in the Hollow Oak Court area of Preston Hollow. Some homeowners' awoke and found that they were missing lawn ornaments and decorations from their yards. Police reports were filed and if anyone else is missing something please you are encouraged to file a report also. This is another reminder that we need to watch out for one another and report anything that looks suspicious to the police. If you saw anything that night you should also call the sheriff's office at 754-6830 and let them know what you saw.

Lets keep Preston Hollow Safe

Crime Watch Preston Hollow

CRIME ALERT! 2 new crimes

Type Description Case # Location Agency Date Map It PETIT THEFT 2010-24717 300 BLOCK OF HOLLOW OAK CT Hernando County Sheriff 6/30/2010 10:59:00 AM Map It PETIT THEFT 2010-24713 300 BLOCK OF HOLLOW OAK CT Hernando County Sheriff 6/30/2010 10:51:00 AM Map It

Watering Restrictions Back to Twice Per Week

Media Release

July 1, 2010

Watering Restrictions Back to Twice Per Week - At Least for Now
MEDIA RELEASE
For Immediate Release
July 1, 2010

Hernando County Back to Twice Per Week Watering Restrictions Until Further Notice

The Southwest Florida Water Management District (SWFWMD) allowed the Phase II water shortage restrictions to expire on June 30th. The SWFWMD Governing Board voted to lift the once-per week watering restrictions in response to significant improvements in aquifer and river levels as a result of this winter’s above-average rainfall. This means that the district will allow residents to return to the twice-per-week watering schedule.

Local governments have the option of continuing the once/week restriction or returning to twice/week for their residents. Hernando County Utilities staff plans to present the matter for consideration by the Board of County Commissioners’on Tuesday, July 13th.

In the meantime, until official action is taken to the contrary, Hernando County will return to the twice-per week watering schedule as authorized by SWFWMD. All watering must be done before 10 a.m. or after 4 p.m., even-numbered addresses on Thursday and/or Sunday and odd-numbered addresses on Wednesday and/or Saturday. For more information, please visit http://www.swfwmd.state.fl.us/news/article/1511/ or call Hernando County Utilities at 754-4037.

County Offices Close for Independence Day Holiday

Media Release

June 30, 2010

County Offices Close for Independence Day Holiday
MEDIA RELEASE
For Immediate Release
June 30, 2010

Hernando County Government Offices will be closed Monday, July 5, 2010, in observance of the Independence Day holiday. The Northwest Hernando County Solid Waste Facility will be open for business; however, the east and west solid waste convenience centers are always closed on Mondays.

All offices and facilities will re-open on Tuesday, July 6, at 8:00 a.m.

Residents Urged to Protect Themselves Against Mosquitoes

Media Release

June 29, 2010

Residents Urged to Protect Themselves Against Mosquitoes
MEDIA RELEASE
For Immediate Release
June 29, 2010

Eastern Equine Encephalitis Cases in Neighboring Counties

Mosquito Control Director Dr. Guangye Hu wants Hernando County residents to know that two horses - in Pasco and Hillsborough counties - have been reported euthanized in June as a result of contracting Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE). Two horses in Central Florida (Osceola County) were also reported to have the disease. So far, this year, 16 horses have been confirmed with EEE in Florida. Transmitted by mosquitoes, EEE causes 90% mortality of horses and 50% of humans.

On June 18th, Florida Agriculture and Consumer Services Commissioner Charles Bronson urged horse owners to check with their veterinarian to make sure their animals have received current vaccinations and booster shots against EEE and West Nile Virus.

In 2009, there was an outbreak of Dengue Fever in the Florida Keys, and there have been nine locally-acquired cases this year. Dengue returned to Florida after over 50 years and is transmitted by container-bred mosquitoes around residential homes.

Dr. Hu stated, "It is very important that our residents protect themselves against mosquitoes by wearing long-sleeve shirts and pants and applying mosquito repellents while going out - especially during the evening hours. Residents should check their own property for mosquito-breeding habitats, dump all containers that hold water and flush bromeliads and bird baths weekly." If mosquitoes continue to be a problem after taking these actions, residents are encouraged to call the Mosquito Control Division at (352) 540-6554 to request mosquito control services.

Just and update for everyone regarding the street lights

Just and update for everyone regarding the street lights. Al Walker spoke with the WREC repairman that was in the neighborhood last week he was informed that they have to run a new line to all six lights that are out and replace those small electrical boxes next to the light poles. Hopefully they will be done with this on Monday or Tuesday of this week. I will email WREC asking for a credit of all the six lights once we know exactly how days they have been out. If you have any questions please call or email.

Alan Setelius

Preston Hollow Street Lights

FYI

The first six street lights coming into Preston Hollow from County Line Rd. have been out since Saturday Night 6/5/2010. I filed a report with WREC online that night giving them the eight digit street pole numbers they request to identify where the problem lights are located. On Monday I followed up with a phone call making sure they had received my repair request and to let them know this was a safety issue. Al Walker made a similiar call Tuesday and the WREC people told him they would be out Tuesday afternoon to address our light issue. On Wednesday late afternoon I received a phone call from one of their repairmen who asked me to identify which lights we were having a problem with. I gave him the information he requested and asked if the problem would be repaired and he advised me that he would look at the lights to see what the problem was. He said that if the problem was a line issue where they needed to run a new line underground it might take a couple of days longer. If you have any questions please email me or call me at 796-6869.


I also put in another request for them to look at the light in Rugby Court. I don't think they repaired it properly last time.

Utilities Customer Service Centers Consolidated

Utilities Customer Service Centers Consolidated
MEDIA RELEASE
For Immediate Release
May 26, 2010

Effective June 14, 2010, the Hernando County Utilities Department, Customer Service Center, located at 21030 Cortez Blvd., Brooksville, will be closed and personnel will be relocated to our Spring Hill Customer Service Center located at 7425 Spring Hill Drive, Spring Hill.

Consolidating our Customer Service Centers into a single location enables us to sustain an affordable level of customer service during these times of fiscal restraint and reduced funding.

Customers will be notified with a billing message and public service announcement printed in the newspaper and posted to our Web site. Additionally, staff will provide a printout at the payment window to all walk-in customers. This notification will begin on May 21, 2010 and continue through June 11, 2010.

For your convenience, we will continue to accept utility payments in the night deposit drop box located at the front of the building at 20130 Cortez Blvd.

Residents requiring new service, account inquiries or any customer service related questions are asked to call (352) 754-4037.

Customer Service
7425 Spring Hill Drive
Spring Hill, FL 34606
Fax (352) 688-5012

Hours of Operation
Monday-Friday
8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

PAYMENT OPTIONS AT NO ADDITIONAL FEE TO OUR CUSTOMERS

·Over the phone payments call 352-754-4037
·Online payments http://www.hernandocounty.us/utils/Customer_Service/ccpayment.asp
·Convenient Drive Thru open 8:00 am to 5:00 pm at 7425 Spring Hill Drive
·Electronic Funds Transfer –no checks to write, save postage, save gasoline
Master and Visa Accepted

County Government Offices Closed for Memorial Day Holiday

County Government Offices Closed for Memorial Day Holiday
MEDIA RELEASE
For Immediate Release
May 25, 2010

Hernando County Government Offices will be closed Monday, May 31st, 2010, in observance of the Memorial Day holiday. The Northwest Hernando County Solid Waste Facility will be open for business; however, the east and west solid waste convenience centers are always closed on Mondays.

All offices and facilities will re-open on Tuesday, June 1st, at 8:00 a.m.

SWFWMD Schedules Controlled Burns for June/July

SWFWMD Schedules Controlled Burns for June/July
Southwest Florida Water Management District
Kevin Love
1-800-423-1476, ext. 4465

MEDIA RELEASE
For Immediate Release
May 24, 2010

Controlled burns scheduled for Annutteliga Hammock and Weeki Wachee Preserve Properties

The Southwest Florida Water Management District will be conducting “controlled, prescribed burns” during June and July in two areas of Hernando County - the District’s Annutteliga Hammock property and the Weeki Wachee Preserve property..

The Annutteliga Hammock property is located in the Royal Highlands area of northwest Hernando County, just south of Citrus County’s Sugarmill Woods development. Approximately 555 acres of land will be burned in small, manageable units.

The Weekiwachee Preserve property is located approximately one mile west of Spring Hill. Approximately 825 acres of land will be burned in small, manageable units.

The scheduled, managed burns are a part of routine maintenance of lands managed by the District.

According to District Land Manager Kevin W. Love, burns are conducted to mimic natural fire cycles under a controlled situation. The object is to avoid uncontrolled wildfires and enhance the area’s natural conditions by maintaining the ecological and wildlife habitat values. Prescribed burns are only conducted when weather conditions allow the objectives to be met while minimizing impacts to the public.

Every effort will be made to ensure that smoke will not affect homes or highways. However, vehicle operators should exercise caution in case smoke does lead to reduced visibility on the area’s roads or highways.

The District owns and manages approximately 436,000 acres of environmentally sensitive lands for water resource and natural systems protection.

For more information, please call the District at (352) 796-7211 or 1-800-423-1476, ext. 4465.

Series of Community Meetings Scheduled

Series of Community Meetings Scheduled
MEDIA RELEASE
For Immediate Release
April 20, 2010

During the month of May, Hernando County residents will have the opportunity to learn about the proposed FY 2010-2011 Hernando County Government budget. During a series of public meetings scheduled throughout the community, Director of Budget and Administrative Services George Zoettlein along with County Administrator David Hamilton will present budget proposals and options and address comments and questions from those in attendance. The meeting dates/locations are shown below:

Tuesday, May 4th @ 6:30 p.m.
Coast Guard Auxiliary Building
4340 Calienta St.
Hernando Beach, FL

Thursday, May 13th @ 6:30 p.m.
VFW Post 10209
14736 Edward R. Noll Drive
Brooksville, FL

Wednesday, May 19th @ 3:00 p.m.
East Hernando Library
6457 Windmere St.
Brooksville, FL

In addition, a second series of similar community meetings will be held in August to review the finalized proposed budget at the same locations - specific dates to be announced. For more information about the meetings, please contact the Hernando County Communications Office at (352) 540-6780.

Notice of Public Workshop

Notice of Public Workshop
Board of County Commissioners
Tuesday, May 4, 2010

The Hernando County Board of County Commissioners will hold a workshop session on Tuesday, May 4, 2010, beginning at 9:00 a.m. in the John Law Ayers Room, Room 160, Hernando County Government Center, 20 N. Main St., Brooksville, Florida. The topics to be included on the agenda for discussion are as follows:

1. Citizens Ordinance Advisory Team Recommendations for Repeal of the Similarity Ordinance
2. Discussion of Multiple Boats in Residential Areas
3. Solid Waste and Recycling Program Update

Final Session - Hernando County Water Awareness Series 2010

Final Session - Hernando County Water Awareness Series 2010

The Hernando County Utilities Department and Citizens for W.A.T.E.R. invites the public to the final session of the Hernando County Water Awareness Series 2010 presentation on Friday, May 7, 2010, from 10:00 AM to noon. The public is welcome to attend this important educational seminar, which will be held at the Hernando County Utilities Department, 21030 Cortez Blvd., Brooksville, FL 34601. Light refreshments will be provided.

The seminar topic will be: Hurricane Season is Here: Be Prepared! Learn How! Presented by Cecilia Patella, Hernando County Emergency Management Director and Mike Holtkamp, Operation Director, Southwest Florida Water Management District.

Please call the Hernando County Utilities Department at 352 754-4705 to let us know that you plan to attend.

Two More Walking Tours Available for Hernando County

Two More Walking Tours Available for Hernando County Environmentally Sensitive Lands Projects
May-June

The Hernando County Environmentally Sensitive Lands Program has made available two more opportunities for the public to participate in walking tours of its preserves and projects. Walkers will see scarce natural plant communities, look for animal tracks in the sand, and learn about the human and natural history of the areas. The two tours are:

TUESDAY, MAY 4, 2010 AT PECK SINK STORMWATER PRESERVE, WISCON ROAD

Where: Meet in the southeast corner of the Brooksville Regional Hospital parking lot (at Medical Park Lane and the service road which goes behind the hospital). We will carpool from there to Peck Sink.

When: 8:30 AM on Tuesday, May 4, 2010.

We will begin our tour with a short talk on the preserve, its history and acquisition by the County. Our speaker will discuss the geology, hydrology, stormwater challenges, and planned stormwater management facilities. We will visit the drainage channel that transports water to the sinks, and walk the high ground overlooking the sinkholes at the end where stormwater goes into the ground. We can look for birds in the open areas and unusual plants in the woods, while the drainage system and sinkholes are the main attractions.

THIS TOUR IS RATED MODERATE IN DIFFICULTY DUE TO SOME HIGH GRASS AND A FEW STEEP SLOPES. The tour will cover about one and a half miles and require about two hours to complete.

THURSDAY, JUNE 3, 2010 AT FICKETT HAMMOCK PRESERVE, CENTRALIA ROAD

Where: Meet in the parking lot at 15482 Centralia Road. It is on the south side between Citrus Way and the Fire Station near the east end of Centralia Road.

When: 8:30 AM on Thursday, June 3, 2010.

Our tour will begin with a short talk about the preserve. Our speaker will discuss the preserve’s history, acquisition by the county, namesake, geology, hydrology, topography, vegetation, animals, public amenities, and management. We will walk a shady trail through forests of swamp chestnut oaks, sweetgums, hickories, and cedars. The trail meanders through palmetto patches, along a seasonally wet creek, and through long leaf pine flatwoods. Join us for a walk in a remnant piece of the Big Hammock.

THIS TOUR IS RATED EASY. The tour will cover about one mile and require about one and a half hours to complete.

To make a reservation for these tours, get directions, or ask questions, please contact:

Jim King, Conservation Lands Specialist
Phone 352-754-4057, extension 28020
Email: jking@hernandocounty.us

What to Wear and Bring: These are Mother Nature’s wild places. Please dress appropriately. Wear sturdy shoes, socks, and clothes suitable for walking outdoors. Long pants are strongly recommended. Hats and insect repellent may be desirable in warm weather. Bring drinking water if you want water to drink. And please feel free to bring your camera or binoculars.

Hernando County Water Awareness Series 2010

Hernando County Water Awareness Series 2010

The Hernando County Utilities Department and Citizens for W.A.T.E.R. invites the public to the fifth session of the Hernando County Water Awareness Series 2010 presentation on Friday, April 16, 2010, from 10:00 AM to noon. Everyone is welcome to attend this important educational seminar, which will be held at the Hernando County Utilities Department, 21030 Cortez Blvd., Brooksville, FL 34601. Light refreshments will be provided.

The seminar topic will be: "Hernando County Springs - Protections, Investigations and Restorations", presented by David DeWitt, Southwest Florida Water Management District and Toby Brewer, Park Manager, Weeki Wachee Springs State Park.

Please call the Hernando County Utilities Department at 352 754-4705 to let us know that you plan to attend.

2010 Hurricane and Safety Expo

2010 Hurricane and Safety Expo
Emergency Management Media Release

From: Sergeant Donna Black
Public Information Officer, 352-797-3609
Re: Hernando County Sheriff’s Office Announces Annual Hurricane & Safety Expo - Opportunity for Vendors or Businesses Still Exists
Date: March 17, 2010

The Hernando County Sheriff’s Office / Emergency Management will host a Hurricane & Safety Expo from 9AM to 2PM on Saturday, May 1st, 2010 at St. Joan of Arc Catholic Church, Spring Hill Drive, Spring Hill, FL.

Our guest speaker this year is Chief Meteorologist Tammie Souza from WTSP, Channel 10. Tammie will discuss the upcoming hurricane season and answer your questions.

The Hurricane and Safety Expo is an educational event for the entire family. Planned activities include: a high voltage demonstration, marine safety, a K.I.D. Korner (Kids in Disaster) and emergency vehicle displays. Vendors of safety products, personal disaster preparedness & home retrofit products will be on hand to show you how to be ready.

There are still spaces available for vendors or businesses that would like to participate or support the Expo. Call Dianne Cox at (352) 754-4083 or go to http://www.hernandosheriff.org and follow the link for the Expo.

For general information about the Expo, call Emergency Management at (352) 754-4083 or visit our web page at: http://www.hernandosheriff.org

WORKSHOP TO EDUCATE COMMUNITY ON AVOIDING HOME FORECLOSURE

UNITED WAY & Consumer Credit Counseling Service OFFERS WORKSHOP TO EDUCATE
COMMUNITY ON AVOIDING HOME FORECLOSURES

To help combat the current rise in home foreclosures across Florida, Consumer Credit Counseling Service (CCCS) in partnership with United Way of Hernando County will host “Keep your Home – Get the Facts”, a foreclosure assistance workshop designed to educate and assist families facing foreclosure or those who are concerned about their current housing and financial situation. This event will include the opportunity to meet with HUD Certified Counselors, local housing authorities, and others to assist families facing foreclosure.

Attendees of the seminar will obtain information regarding:
· Evaluating your current situation
· Defining delinquency
· Identifying the players
· Learning how to work with your lender
· Understanding the alternatives to foreclosure
· Defining a counseling session

The event will take place on Saturday, April 24, 2010 from 10:00 A.M. to 2:00 P.M. at Career Central, 7361 Forest Oaks Blvd., Spring Hill, FL 34606

March to the Mailbox

MEDIA RELEASE

April 5, 2010

Please see info below about the community event planned for next Saturday at Hernando Park . We have a large quantity of census-related products (t-shirts, hats, and general information) that we will be giving out - all of which has been provided to us by the U.S. Census Bureau. This event coincides with similar events all across the nation to increase public awareness of the importance of mailing back census forms.

The City of Brooksville, Hernando County and the US Census Bureau invites all residents to participate in our “Make Brooksville & Hernando County Count - March to the Mail Box” event April 10, 2010 located in downtown Brooksville at Hernando Park’s Band-shell, from 12:00 – 2:00 p.m. Come out and support our community! There will be live entertainment, free raffle prize drawings and food. The Census only happens every 10 years --- you won’t want to miss this event!

When you fill out your census form you are making a statement about what resources your community needs going forward for the next ten years. The information the census bureau collects is very important and helpful as it determines how more than $400 billion dollars of federal funding is allocated within our community.

For additional information, please contact Brooksville City Hall at 352-540-3810, Hernando County at 352-540-6780 or visit www.cityofbrooksville.us or www.hernandocounty.us

County Commissioners' Workshop Tuesday, April 6th

MEDIA RELEASE
For Immediate Release
April 1, 2010

County Commissioners' Workshop Tuesday, April 6th

The Board of County Commissioners will meet in workshop session on Tuesday, April 6, 2010, begnning at 9:00 a.m. in the County Commission Chambers, Room 160, First Floor, Hernando County Government Center, 20 N. Main St., Brooksville, Florida. The Board generally holds a workshop session on the first Tuesday of each month. The workshop agenda will be posted at
http://hernandocountyfl.iqm2.com/citizens/

The topics on the upcoming workshop agenda include:

• Update Regarding US Immigration and Customs Enforcement Mutual Agreement Between Government and Employers (IMAGE) Program (E-Verify Employment Eligibility Verification Program)

• Business Development Plan

• Discussion of the Sign Ordinance

• Fire Engine Minimum Manning Levels for Hernando County Fire Rescue District

• Charter Government

Learn how to deal with disasters

The Hernando County Sheriff's Office, Emergency Management Section, will offer Community Emergency Response Team training from 6 to 9 p.m. Mondays, April 5 through May 10, at the Emergency Communications and Operation Center, 18900 Cortez Blvd.

The training will conclude with a disaster drill from 10 a.m. to noon on May 15. Graduation will follow the drill.

Participants will learn how to help themselves and their neighbors during times of crisis. Topics include disaster preparedness, fire suppression, emergency medical first aid, search and rescue, disaster psychology and disaster communications.

This free training is offered to residents 18 and older. Attendance at all sessions and the drill is required to receive a certificate of completion. To register or to obtain information, call Pam Harris at (352) 754-4083.

From the Sheriff's Office Emergency Management

Just received from the Sheriff's Office Emergency Management:

Due to the combination of the current atmospheric conditions and the prescribed burning by the Division of Forestry, Hernando County residents may experience smoky conditions today and Friday. Residents should be particularly careful in the early morning hours where smoke and fog may create low visibility and hazardous driving conditions.

Residents who suffer from respiratory problems should keep all windows and doors closed to their residences.

Happy Easter, everyone. Enjoy the long weekend!


Brenda Frazier
Community Relations Coordinator
Hernando County Government

Curbside Recycling Collection Change

Curbside Recycling Collection Change
MEDIA RELEASE
For Immediate Release

Hernando County Utilities officials have announced that effective April 19, 2010, Curbside Recycling Collection by Waste Management Inc. will change from once per week to once every other week. The day of the week for their curbside recycling will remain the same.

HOUSEHOLD GARBAGE COLLECTION WILL NOT CHANGE.

For more information please contact the Hernando County Solid Waste Division at (352) 754-4112. Additional information may also be obtained from Waste Management Inc. Customer Service Section at 1-800-255-7172.

Code Compliance Month

Hernando County commissioners Tuesday approved an ordinance change that would allow a "code compliance month." Assistant County Attorney Jon Jouben said the amendment would let commissioners approve a special month for people with liens for code violations to reduce the amount of the liens by complying with code requirements. Under the change, a lien could be reduced by board action if an application for reduction is approved by staff.

The proposal would authorize a compliance month to be scheduled each in May. Property owners that remain in violation or where costs of county clean-up exceeded lien amounts would not be eligible. The proposal was criticized by one former violator who complained that the process required a non-refundable $30 application fee, but commissioners voted unanimously to approve the change.

New Location and Office Hours for Code Enforcement Department

Hernando County Code Enforcement has moved from its former location on the first floor in the Hernando County Government Center. They are now co-located with Animal Services, 19150 Oliver Street, Brooksville, Florida 34601. The phone number will stay the same, 352-754-4056, but the fax number has changed to 352-796-3746. The Code Enforcement staff appreciates the patience of the public as they make the transition and offers the following new service hours.

New Office Hours Beginning March 29, 2010
Monday 9:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
Tuesday 9:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
Wednesday 9:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
Thursday 9:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
Friday 9:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
Closed Saturday and Sunday

Phone Hours:
Monday – Friday 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.

Hurricane and Safety Expo

PLANS SET FOR 2010 HURRICANE EXPO

The Emergency Management division of the Hernando County Sheriff’s Office will host a Hurricane and Safety Expo from 9AM to 2PM on Saturday, May 1, at St. Joan of Arc Catholic Church on Spring Hill Drive. Guest speaker this year is Channel 10 Meteorologist Tammie Souza, who will discuss the upcoming hurricane season and answer questions.

The Hurricane and Safety Expo is an educational event for the entire family, with planned activities including: a high voltage demonstration, marine safety, a Kids Korner and emergency vehicle displays. Vendors of safety products, personal disaster preparedness and home retrofit products will be on hand to as well.

2010 Census - List of Questionnaire Assistance Centers

2010 Census - List of Questionnaire Assistance Centers
2010 Census

Do You Have a Question or Need Assistance Completing Your Census Questionnaire? Here is a list of locations in Hernando County where you can go to get assistance or additional information about the 2010 Census:

Questionnaire Assistance Centers:

Withlacoochee Bicentennial Hall
16257 Lingle Road
Istachatta, Florida
March 19 thru April 17
Tuesday thru Saturday
11am - 2pm

Hernando County Airport
15800 Flight Path Drive
Brooksville, Florida
March 19 thru April 23
Monday thru Friday
11am - 2pm

Hernando County Government Center
20 N. Main St.
Brooksville, Florida
March 19 thru April 23
Monday thru Friday
11am - 2pm

Brooksville Wesleyan Church
8168 Jasmine Dr.
Brooksville, FL
Mon-Fri 2 p.m. to 5 p.m.

Jericho Road Ministries - Sunrise Plaza Thrift Store
31170 Cortez Blvd.
Brooksville, FL
Mon thru Fri 9 am to 12 pm

Jericho Road Ministries - Food Pantry
1163 Howell Avenue
Brooksville, FL
Mon - Fri 9 am to 12 pm

Jericho Road Ministries - Wiscon Thrift Store
16479 Wiscon Road
Brooksville, FL
Mon - Fri 9 am to 12 pm

Jericho Road Ministries - Winchester Plaza Thrift Store
5260 Commercial Way
Spring Hill, FL
Mon - Fri 9 am to 12 pm

South Brooksville Neighborhood Assoc.
1203 E. Jefferson St.
Brooksville, FL
Mon - Fri 11 am to 2 pm

Vision Temple Ministries
715 Daniel Ave.
Brooksville, FL
Mon - Fri 11 am to 2 pm

Grace World Outreach Church
20366 Cortez Blvd.
Brooksville,FL
Monday - 9 am to 4 pm

Christian Church in the Wildwood
10051 Country Road
Weeki Wachee, FL
Mon - Fri 9 am to 12 pm


"Be Counted" Sites - to obtain Census information (no Census staff present):

All Hernando County Library Branches
First Baptist Church of Brooksville, 420 Howell Avenue, Brooksville
First Presbyterian Church, 250 Bell Avenue, Brooksville
First United Methodist Church, 109 S. Broad St., Brooksville
South Brooksville Community Center, 601 Martin Luther King, Jr. Blvd., Brooksville

For more information about the 2010 Census, visit www.2010census.gov or www.hernandocounty.us

Preston Hollow Homeowners’ Neighborhood Crime Watch Alert

On Friday March 12th a Preston Hollow home located on Forest Wood Court was burglarized some time between 6:00 AM & 10:00 AM. The Preston Hollow Homeowners’ Association Board of Directors is asking every homeowner to keep a watchful eye out, not only on his or her own property but also for the neighbors as well. Randi Rosmarin, who coordinates our local Crime Watch, is always looking for more volunteers to act as block captains. She can be contacted at 796-7016. Please do your part to help keep our neighborhood safe. If you see something out of place or suspicious please contact the Hernando County Sheriff’s Office at 754-6830. Dial 911 for emergency situations.

Preston Hollow Board of Directors

Informational Webinar Scheduled Re: 2060 Florida Transportation Plan

INFORMATIONAL WEBINAR -
2060 FLORIDA TRANSPORTATION PLAN

The Hernando County Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO) will host a satellite location for an informatinal webinar on the 2060 Florida Transportation Plan on Wednesday, MARCH 10, 2010, from 2:00 to 3:00 p.m., at the Hernando County Planning Department Conference Room, 20 N. Main Street, Room 261, Brooksville, Florida. During 2010, the Florida Department of Transportation and its partners will be updating the Florida Transportation Plan (FTP). The 2060 FTP is a plan for all of Florida, including local, regional, and state partners who make decisions about future transportation investments affecting safety, security, preservation, and mobility needs.

The public is encouraged to participate in this interactive forum. Interested citizens with access to a computer and internet connection may register for the free webinar at www.2060ftp.org. Citizens without access to a computer are invited to attend the host satellite location listed above.

Public participation is solicited without regard to race, color, national origin, age, sex, religion, disability or family status. Persons who require special accommodations for the meeting location under the Americans with Disabilities Act or persons who require translation services (free of charge) should contact Dennis Dix, MPO Coordinator, Hernando County Metropolitan Planning Organization, 20 N. Main Street, Room 262, Brooksville, FL 34601, telephone (352) 754-4057, no later than three (3) days prior to the meeting. If hearing impaired, please call 1-800-676-3777 for assistance.

Free H1N1 Vaccinations Offered by Health Department

Free H1N1 Vaccinations Offered by Health Department

For Immediate Release
Contact: Ann-Gayl Ellis, PIO
March 4, 2010
352-540-6817/352-279-1949

Free H1N1 Vaccination Offered Wednesdays and Fridays in Brooksville

Brooksville- The majority of influenza currently circulating continues to be H1N1. The Hernando County Health Department reminds residents and visitors that it’s not too late to get vaccinated. Beginning Wednesday, March 10, the health department will offer free H1N1 vaccination to all county residents and visitors on Wednesday afternoons and Friday mornings at their Brooksville clinic location, 300 S. Main Street. Wednesday vaccination hours are 1-5pm and Friday vaccinations hours are 9am until 1:00pm. No appointment is necessary and there is no charge for vaccination.

For more information, please call 540-6855.

2010 Census - Stand and Be Counted, Hernando County!

2010 Census - Stand and Be Counted, Hernando County!
MEDIA RELEASE
For Immediate Release
February 26, 2010

Hernando County residents will receive the 2010 Census questionnaires in their mailboxes within the next couple of weeks. Some residents in the more remote areas of the county may be counted in person by a census taker. All citizens will be counted – both citizens and non-citizens

Why is it so important to complete and return the questionnaire? The U.S. Constitution requires a national census once every 10 years to count the population and determine the number of seats each state will have in the U.S. House of Representatives. The count is also used to determine boundaries for state and local legislative and congressional districts and to determine federal funding allocations to state and local governments. This funding is used for community services, such as school lunch programs, senior citizen centers and new construction for highways.

One of the shortest census forms in U.S. Census history, the 2010 Census form asks 10 questions and takes about 10 minutes to complete. Responses to the census questionnaire should include everyone who will be living at that address as of Census Day, April 1, 2010. Census questionnaires should be returned as soon as possible in the postage-paid envelopes provided. Beginning in May, census takers will visit households that did not return the questionnaires by mail.

Mailing back the questionnaire ensures an accurate count and lowers the cost of the 2010 Census by reducing the number of census workers who must go door to door to collect census data. In fact, about $85 million is saved for every one percent increase in mail participation. By law, the Census Bureau cannot share an individual’s responses with anyone, including other federal agencies and law enforcement entities.

Questionnaire Assistance Centers (QACs) will be established in Hernando County to assist residents in completing the forms. Also, all Hernando County library branches will have the census forms available as well as additional information about the 2010 Census. The QAC locations are as follows:

Withlacoochee Bicentennial Hall
16257 Lingle Road
Istachatta, Florida
March 19 thru April 17
Tuesday thru Saturday
11am - 2pm

Hernando County Airport
15800 Flight Path Drive
Brooksville, Florida
March 19 thru April 23
Monday thru Friday
11am - 2pm

Hernando County Government Center
20 N. Main St.
Brooksville, Florida
March 19 thru April 23
Monday thru Friday
11am - 2pm

Mail it back, Hernando County – stand and be counted!
For additional information, visit www.2010.census.gov., call the Hernando County Planning Department at (352) 754-4057 or the local Census Office at 1-866-861-2010 or 277-3096.

2010 Census www.2010census.gov

Plant Coverings

Please remember if you cover your plants during the cold weather you need to uncover them in the morning so they won't die. Also according to our Deed Restrictions those coverings must be put away each day so they aren't and eyesore to your neighbors.

THINGS YOUR BURGLAR WON'T TELL YOU:

THINGS YOUR BURGLAR WON'T TELL YOU:

1. Of course I look familiar. I was here just last week cleaning your carpets, painting your shutters, or delivering your new refrigerator.

2. Hey, thanks for letting me use the bathroom when I was working in your yard last week. While I was in there, I unlatched the back window to make my return a little easier.

3. Love those flowers. That tells me you have taste ... And taste means there are nice things inside. Those yard toys your kids leave out always make me wonder what type of gaming system they have.

4. Yes, I really do look for newspapers piled up on the driveway. And I might leave a pizza flyer in your front door to see how long it takes you to remove it.

5. If it snows while you're out of town, get a neighbor to create car and foot tracks into the house. Virgin drifts in the driveway are a dead giveaway.

6. If decorative glass is part of your front entrance, don't let your alarm company install the control pad where I can see if it's set. That makes it too easy.

7. A good security company alarms the window over the sink. And the windows on the second floor, which often access the master bedroom-and your jewelry. It's not a bad idea to put motion detectors up there too.

8. It's raining, you're fumbling with your umbrella, and you forget to lock your door-understandable. But understand this: I don't take a day off because of bad weather.

9. I always knock first. If you answer, I'll ask for directions somewhere or offer to clean your gutters.. (Don't take me up on it.)

10. Do you really think I won't look in your sock drawer? I always check dresser drawers, the bedside table, and the medicine cabinet.

11. Here's a helpful hint: I almost never go into kids' rooms.

12. You're right: I won't have enough time to break into that safe where you keep your valuables. But if it's not bolted down, I'll take it with me.

13. A loud TV or radio can be a better deterrent than the best alarm system. If you're reluctant to leave your TV on while you're out of town, you can buy a $35 device that works on a timer and simulates the flickering glow of a real television. (Find it at faketv.Com.)

8 MORE THINGS A BURGLAR WON'T TELL YOU:

1. Sometimes, I carry a clipboard. Sometimes, I dress like a lawn guy and carry a rake. I do my best to never, ever look like a crook.

2. The two things I hate most: loud dogs and nosy neighbors.

3. I'll break a window to get in, even if it makes a little noise. If your neighbor hears one loud sound, he'll stop what he's doing and wait to hear it again. If he doesn't hear it again, he'll just go back to what he was doing. It's human nature.

4. I'm not complaining, but why would you pay all that money for a fancy alarm system and leave your house without setting it?

5. I love looking in your windows. I'm looking for signs that you're home, and for flat screen TVs or gaming systems I'd like. I'll drive or walk through your neighborhood at night, before you close the blinds, just to pick my targets.

6. Avoid announcing your vacation on your Facebook page. It's easier than you think to look up your address.

7. To you, leaving that window open just a crack during the day is a way to let in a little fresh air. To me, it's an invitation.

8. If you don't answer when I knock, I try the door. Occasionally, I hit the jackpot and walk right in.

Sources: Convicted burglars in North Carolina , Oregon , California , and Kentucky ; security consultant Chris McGoey, who runs crimedoctor.Com; and Richard T. Wright, a criminology professor at the University of Missouri-St. Louis, who interviewed 105 burglars for his book Burglars on the Job.

Update on the repairs to Mariner Blvd.

MEDIA RELEASE

Repairs to the water main in the median on Mariner Boulevard near the YMCA in Spring Hill have been repaired. However, the repair of the road damage is still being evaluated by Public Works officials. Because of the weather conditions, the County does not expect to re-open the road before Tuesday, February 16th. The southbound lane of Mariner Boulevard between Lindsey and Henderson Streets has been closed since Thursday afternoon due to damage from the water main break. Traffic is being diverted to a detour route.

PHHOA Dues are now past due.

Please remember that everyone's Homeowners' Association dues were due as of January 31, 2010. Currently there are still 20 homeowners' that haven't paid their dues. If you haven't sent in your payment please do so as soon as possible so you do not incur extra costs and fees. Please send your payment to-

Preston Hollow Homeowners' Association
P.O Box 15338
Spring Hill, Fl. 34609

The Florida Aquarium's 9th Annual Sea Grapes Fine Wine and Food Festival

The Florida Aquarium's 9th Annual Sea Grapes Fine Wine and Food Festival on May 1, 2010

The Florida Aquarium’s 9th Annual Sea Grapes Fine Wine and Food Festival on May 1, 2010, is a casual but elegant evening benefiting the Aquarium’s youth education and conservation programs including sponsored admissions for underserved youth, sea turtle rehabilitation, seahorse conservation and coral farm propagation.

Twenty premier Bay area restaurants offer delicious samples, Total Wine & More provide over 100 wine tastings, a lively silent auction includes travel, jewelry, art and more, and entertainment and live music can be found throughout the Aquarium.

Would you please consider including the attached information in your community newsletter, website and/or events calendar.
If you have any questions or would like more information about Sea Grapes, please go to www.seagrapes.org or contact me at (813) 842-3003.
Thank you,

Karen Morgan
Public Relations Committee Chair
Sea Grapes 2010

Crime Watch Alert

SPRING HILL — A Pasco County man has been arrested, accused of grabbing cash from a woman outside a Publix store and firing a gun near the head of a man who tried to catch him.

The Hernando County Sheriff's Office gave this report: Deputies responding to the Publix at County Line Road and Anderson Snow Road at 8:46 p.m. Saturday were told that the suspect, Christopher Hooten of Pasco County, approached three people outside the store.

One of them, a 24-year-old Pasco woman, was holding about $280 in her hand while she spoke briefly with Hooten. The woman said Hooten then grabbed the cash and ran through the parking lot and across a field.

The woman and two companions jumped in a car and chased Hooten. When they caught up to him, one of the men, a 50-year-old Hernando County man, jumped out and tried to grab Hooten, who pulled out a semiautomatic handgun and fired a shot beside the man's head.

Hooten fled in a 1997 black pickup truck and was later caught at a traffic stop by Hernando authorities on Bosley Road in Pasco County. The gun, money and some narcotics were recovered.

Hooten was arrested in Pasco County and booked at the Pasco jail on charges of robbery by sudden snatching and aggravated assault with a firearm. Pasco authorities also arrested him on an outstanding warrant.

2010 Water Conservation Incentive Programs

2010 Water Conservation Incentive Programs

These programs are for residential customers of Hernando County Utilities Department (HCUD) only. Please carefully review the following descriptions of our incentive based programs to see if you qualify and if you are interested in participating.

2010 Rain Sensor Installation Program

This water conservation incentive program promotes residential outdoor water conservation by offering a $50 water bill credit for HCUD customers who have a rain sensor installed to their irrigation system. To participate in this program, participants must be a residential Hernando County Utilities Department water or water/sewer customer who irrigates with county supplied water, the home and the irrigation system must be older than 2001, and the new rain sensor must be installed by one of the participating irrigation contractors. This program provides an incentive for people who do not have a rain sensor and meet the other qualifications.

Call to see if you qualify and to get the list of participating irrigation contractors.
(352) 754-4705

2010 Low Flow Toilet Replacement Program

In an effort to further promote water conservation in Hernando County homes, HCUD is offering as much as a $200 ($100 per toilet replaced) water bill credit for replacing older toilets (high gallon per flush) with new water efficient toilets (1.6 gallon per flush). The requirements to participate in this water conservation program are: you must be a residential Hernando County Utilities Department water or water/sewer customer, the home must be older than 1994, (we replace only older high gallon per flush toilets, new toilets in older homes will not qualify, new homes with new toilets will not qualify). The new water efficient toilet must be installed by one of the participating plumbing contractors.

Call to see if you qualify and to get a list of participating plumbing contractors.

Call for more information at (352) 754-4705

Preston Hollow now banks with Compass Bank

Preston Hollow is now doing all of it's banking with Compass Bank. The Board did this for a couple of reasons with one of them being free checking. Another being if you use Compass Bank or open an Account with them Preston Hollow receives a monetary benefit from this. Please note that our code number is 76913 for anyone wishing to associate their account to the associations'.

Hours of Service for All Library Branches

Media Release

January 29, 2010

Hours of Service for All Library Branches
MEDIA RELEASE
For Immediate Release
January 29, 2010

The Hernando County Public Library System provides public access to a diverse collection of print, audio visual, electronic resources and services. The Library also provides high-speed public access to the Internet, basic computer classes, entertaining and educational programs for adults, teens, and children and much more.

Library Services are available throughout six (6) convenient locations in the county. Saturday hours available at two (2) locations. Other hours vary (See attached listing). Additional information on your local library branch locations and library hours can be found on our website at www.hcpl.lib.fl.us.

Library Locations and Hours:

Main Library/Brooksville
238 Howell Avenue
Brooksville, FL 34601
(352) 754-4043
Monday - 12:00 pm to 8:00 pm
Tuesday through Friday - 10:00 am to 6:00 pm
Saturday - CLOSED

West Hernando Branch Library
6335 Blackbird Avenue
Brooksville, FL 34613(Near Weeki Wachee)
352) 540-6391
Monday - 12:00 pm to 8:00 pm
Tuesday through Friday - 10:00 am to 6:00 pm
Saturday - CLOSED

Spring Hill Branch Library
9220 Spring Hill Drive
Spring Hill, FL 34608(between Mariner Blvd. and Waterfall Drive)
(352) 540-6374
Monday - CLOSED
Tuesday - 12:00 pm to 8:00 pm
Wednesday through Saturday - 9:30 am to 5:00 pm

East Hernando Branch Library
6457 Windmere Road
Brooksville, FL 34602
352)754-4443
Monday - CLOSED
Tuesday - 12:00 pm to 8:00 pm
Wednesday through Saturday - 9:30 am to 5:00 pm

Rock Cannery Library Station
15487 Citrus Way
Brooksville, FL 34614
(352)754-4043
Call for hours

Istachatta Library Station
16257 Lingle Road
Brooksville, FL 34601
(352)540-4304
Wednesdays 1:00 pm to 4:30 pm

Fourth Session in Water Awareness Series Scheduled

Media Release


January 27, 2010

Fourth Session in Water Awareness Series Scheduled
MEDIA RELEASE
For Immediate Release
January 27, 2010

Hernando County Water Awareness Series 2010

The Hernando County Utilities Department and Citizens for W.A.T.E.R. invites the public to the fourth session of the Hernando County Water Awareness Series 2010 presentation on Friday, February 5, 2010, from 10:00 AM to Noon. The seminar will be held at the Hernando County Utilities Department, 21030 Cortez Blvd., Brooksville, FL 34601. Light refreshments will be provided.

The seminar topic will be: Home Vegetable Gardens ‘Growing the Green-Way’. Many people are interested in growing vegetables and fruits in their own backyards. Learn how to do this with less water, less pesticides and less work--“The Green-Way”. The presentation will be given by Jim Moll, Urban Horticulture Extension Agent with the Hernando County Cooperative Extension Service.

Please call the Hernando County Utilities Department at 352 754-4705 to let us know that you plan to attend.

Board of County Commissioners' Workshop Scheduled

Media Release

January 26, 2010

Board of County Commissioners' Workshop Scheduled
MEDIA RELEASE
For Immediate Release
January 26, 2010

The Board of County Commissioners will hold a workshop on Tuesday, February 2, 2010, from 9:00 a.m. to noon in the County Commission Chambers, Room 160, Hernando County Government Center, 20 N. Main Street, Brooksville, Florida. The purpose of the workshop is to review and consider an updated version of the County's Economic Development Plan which represents the strategies and resources needed to improve our local economy. The plan is comprised of the following six sections of focus for business development, with a focus on the retention and creation of jobs:

1. Training
2. Education
3. Recruitment
4. Retention
5. Marketing
6. Research

The workshop is open to the public and will be broadcast live on the local government channel, Bright House Channel 622, and webstreamed at www.hernandocounty.us. For more information about the workshop, please contact the Business Development Department at (352) 540-6400.

Free Landscape and Gardening Classes

Media Release

January 22, 2010

Free Landscape and Gardening Classes
MEDIA RELEASE
For Immediate Release
January 22, 2010

The Hernando County Cooperative Extension Service will hold a series of free landscape and gardening classes on Mondays at 5:30 at its new location, 1653 Blaise Dr, Brooksville (County Development Building).

The free classes will get you in the mood for Spring and teach you University of Florida research-based techniques and Florida-Friendly ways to have a beautiful yard.

Below is a list of the upcoming classes. Registration is not taken for the classes, first come, first seated:

Mondays - 5:30pm

January 25th - Budget Landscaping - Plant Propagation Made Easy
This program will reveal the secrets of growing plants from cuttings, seeds and division. You will find out just how easy it is to start your own plants and save on your landscape finances.

February 8th - New Laws That Affect Your Landscape
Good news for folks living in deed restricted communities, you now have more options in your landscape! Find out what new laws mean for you and what changes you can make in your yards.

February 15th - Weeding Out Your Landscape Troubles
Are weeds growing faster than you can keep up with them? Are your weeds laughing at your attempts to control them? Learn how you can have the last laugh and rid your yard of those pesky weeds.

March 15th - Blue Flowers of Spring
Spring is here, and with it comes splashes of color for your landscape! This program focuses on colorful spring blooming native plants that will thrive in Hernando County.

March 29th - Flowering Perennials
Florida perennials produce beautiful blooms for years, with very little maintenance. Selection is the key to maximum color and aesthetic enjoyment in Hernando County's unique climate.

These classes are open to the public as well, so tell your friends and family to join us! Call for a class brochure, which lists more Monday evening classes as well as Wednesday 10:00am classes at the Spring Hill Library on Spring Hill Dr.

Why your electric bill might scare you next month

If you have been cranking the heat all week, and inside your home it still feels like Florida, you'll soon pay the price. The colder it is outside, the more it costs to heat a house. And with the frigid weather expected to continue, some could see their January power costs double what they paid in December.

"In this cold weather, customers could run their heat for one week and end up with their bill being more than it is during the hottest month in summer," TECO project manager Kenneth Hernandez said Friday.

Here's why: When it's 90 degrees outside and you're cooling your home to 70, you need only enough energy to lower the temperature 20 degrees. But when it's 30 degrees outside and you're heating your home to 70, you have to use enough energy to effect a 40-degree change in temperature.

"If the normal January temperature is 57 degrees, and now we're in the 30s, the cost to keep your home a constant 70 degrees increases 200 percent," Hernandez said.

Progress Energy spokeswoman Suzanne Grant said that for a house with 1,850 square feet of living space, where the thermostat is set at 68 degrees, it costs about $10 more per day to heat your house in 30-degree weather than it does when it's 50 degrees outside. That's $10 a day times … how many days have we been shivering now?

Another problem, Hernandez said, is that most Floridians don't have furnaces. And when the temperature stays low for long, many heat pumps can't keep up with the demand, so emergency heat kicks in. It costs almost triple — 85 cents an hour on average instead of the usual 30 cents. "And when it's really cold out at night, that backup can run for hours at a time," he said.

If you want to help cut back on consumption — and costs — the power companies offer some suggestions:

• Turn down your thermostat from 74 degrees to 70 and you'll save $65 a month. Every degree under 70 saves another 10 percent on your heating bill.

• Find a comfortable temperature and stick to it. Constantly shifting your thermostat takes extra energy. But if your house will be empty for more than two hours, be sure to turn your thermostat down to 65.

• Use portable heaters sparingly. Running a 1,500-watt heater all day costs $149 a month.

• Lower the temperature on your water heater. Going from 140 degrees to 120 degrees will save an average of $85 a year.

PHHOA January 2010 Meeting

HOA Meeting

Our next meeting is Tuesday, January 19th @ 7:00 PM at the home of

Al & Marion Walker, 86 Forest Wood Court

If you plan on attending, kindly let

Kurt Naser at 352-796-2473 or knaser@tampabay.rr.com or

Alan Setelius at 352-796-6869 or aseteliu@tampabay.rr.com

know by Wednesday, January 13^th so that we can ensure adequate space. Our Annual meeting was well attended and we would need to secure a different location if we have the same turnout.

We hope to see you there!

Important Info:

Your Board of Directors passed your annual budget at our Membership Meeting in November. The assessment is $250, which is the same as last year.

You should be receiving your statement shortly. Kindly remit this ASAP.

A position on the Board will be open as of January 17th. If you are interested please bring your resume to the meeting.

We also need 2 volunteers for the ACC Committee, including a chairperson.

Agenda

• Update on Mediation Agreement
• Officers’ Reports
• Crime Watch Report
• ACC Report
• Appointment of BOD / Committee Members