YOSEMITE LAKES OWNERS’ ASSOCIATION

30250 Yosemite Springs Parkway

Coarsegold, CA  93614

Phone:  658-7466   Fax: 658-7866

 

MINUTES OF THE  BOARD BUSINESS MEETING APRIL 20, 2010

CALLED TO ORDER AT 6:32 PM

 

I.       Call to Order –Tom Swire

 

II.      Flag Salute – Diane Cruce   

 

III.     Invocation – Al Clark

           

President Swire asked for a moment of silence for the remembrance of association member, Doug Brown.

 

IV.   Roll Call & Establishment of Quorum – Board Members Present

             Tom Swire, President                              Elaine Loard, Vice President

  Mark Zoeller, Treasurer                          Bob McDonough, Secretary

             Al Clark, Director                                     Dianne Cruce, Assistant Treasurer

             Phil Farren, Director

                 

V.   Approval of Minutes – 3/16/10

 

MOTION: A motion was made to approve the March 16, 2010 Board Meeting minutes.  M/S/C (Zoeller, McDonough), Voice vote.  Ayes: 7 (Swire, Clark, McDonough, Cruce, Farren, Zoeller, Loard), Nays: 0, Motion carried.

 

VI.   Public Comment-

Ladies of the Lakes President, Sandra McCart thanked those who participated in the Swap Meet Event.  She explained all the tasks that took place.  She gave special thanks to the YLOA staff and Security Company for the planning and execution of the event.  They plan on having a critique meeting to go over items that may need to be changed at the next event.  She stated they made $1038 for their scholarship fund.  Karen Varner, Lot 1188, thanked the GM, YLOA Board Of Directors and the LOL Board and Executive Committee for their consideration and support.  She spoke regarding misconstrued communications within YLP, which had affected her personally regarding the volunteer work and donations from the groups she belongs to. She thanked her husband and friends for all their help and stated that she will still continue the volunteer work that she does for the benefit of YLP.   He wanted to share some of the benefits of living in YLP to the audience. Director Clark stated that All State has been working on reprocessing their fees for homes in this area.  They explained to him that YLP and another area up here haven’t seen any rate changes due to our fire station, fire hydrants and water supply.    

 

 

VII.   YLP Fire Station #10 – Chris Haynes

Chris stated that Doug Brown will be dearly missed.  As of 4/14/10 they have an additional 5 firefighters at Station #10 and named them for the audience.  Two were seated in the audience that evening and audience applauded them.  This brings the total to 19 firefighters in YLP.  The firefighters complete 140 hours of training to receive state certification in first-aid, first responder medical aid, firefighter operations, hazardous materials, etc.  Chris explained their training and the academy that trains them.  He explained that a member’s life was saved due to a short arrival time and CPR given by the crew.  There will be an article in the YELP covering this story.  He reminded the audience that burn permits are required.  He warned everyone that it is rattlesnake season and gave instructions if one is bit.  Warming fires are allowed during fire season only if they are LPG.  No other fires are allowed.  Ceremonial fires are allowed if a permit is attained.  Fines issued by the Air Pollution Control District start at $5500 on non-burn days.  He added other fines and their amounts.  They are very concerned this season with the fire potential due to all the rain.  He concluded by expressing their appreciation to the Board of Directors, LOL, the Fire Auxiliary and Golf Committee for all the activities they have supported the station with.  He answered audience questions at this time.  Asst. Treas. Cruce commended Station #10 and the auxiliary for the open house.  It turned out to be a really good event.  Chris thanked all who came to the event for their support.  V. President Loard asked for the rule regarding burning in fireplaces within YLP.  Capitan Nelson stated that we are exempt from the rule as long as we burn LPG. 

 

VIII.   Financial Report – Mark Zoeller

Treasurer Zoeller showed graphs while he explained his report.  He stated that we have more cash on hand at the end of March than we had this time last year and almost as much as two years ago.  He explained this is good news because this money has to extend for paying bills through June.   The Monthly Cash from Operations graph showed cash flows as positive for this year when last year’s showed negative.  Year to Date graph showed “typical” annual cash being burned off.  The Cumulative Cash from Operations graph is more positive year to date than the prior two years.  The Collection Shortfall graph is something the Treasurer has started doing regarding the foreclosure problems within YLP, which is actually affected everywhere.  He explained that we haven’t collected all the assessment money.  The amount not collected had been worse in 2009 than in 2008 and a little worse in 2010.  This is partly due to more members on payment options (monthly, quarterly or semi-annually).  There is only a $6K difference between 2009 and 2010.  The actual percentage is virtually the same.  A couple months ago, this amount was worse.  This situation has improved due to the collection efforts of the office staff. 

 

IX.   Lien Resolutions – Michael Neveu

GM Neveu read the APN numbers for the Board:  092-260-024, 092-180-004, 050-030-008, 093-310-018, 093-350-005, 092-060-023, 092-070-006, and 092-320-003.

 

MOTION:  A motion was made to approve the liens.  M/S/C (Zoeller, McDonough), Voice vote.  Ayes: 7 (Swire, Clark, McDonough, Cruce, Farren, Zoeller, Loard), Nays: 0, Motion carried.

 

X.   YLOA Update Report

1. Security Report – Bob Wilson, NVPS Security

Mr. Wilson stated that there were no major occurrences in the park.  He stated the increased activities in the park: house checks, association calls for service and criminal calls.  He stated that this is indicative of the warm weather due to more people spending time outdoors.  Madera County Sheriff’s Calls for Service:  Total of 60 calls.  He stated that this number is low for a community this diverse.  He is pleased this number is that low.   One burglary was reported to Madera Sheriff’s department and one reported to us that wasn’t turned over to the Sheriff’s Department.  The continuing calls for service is the barking dog issue.  Neighbors have been supportive in helping security identify where the animals are.  They are also working with management to try to resolve these issues.  The audience had no questions for him at this time. 

1. Manager's Report – Michael Neveu, General Manager

GM Neveu requested that his report be entered into the minutes as an attachment.  He entertained questions at this time.  President Swire asked about the attendance at the golf course.  The number of attendees to the course has gone down, but the cart rentals have gone up.  The GM asked Jim Ross to answer the question.  This is due to the number of guests has gone up.  The GM included that we have a decrease in the number of members renting cart spaces.  Vice President Loard asked the GM to include an explanation regarding YSPUC’s manager’s report regarding the excessive water production vs. sales.  The GM stated this had crept up and they had assumed it to be a seasonal problem.  There may be a problem with our meters reading the flow.  YSPUC Manager Harrington is researching this.  They will be purchasing equipment that will measure water flow within the pipes.  They should have better data as to where the water is going by the next board meeting.  To answer a question from an audience member, the GM explained that they have been repairing small areas that have been left after the water main contractor left.  There were depressions left.  They’ve been patching these areas in preparation for the paving contractor to come in.  The paving will take place as soon as the weather gets better (approx. 2 weeks, weather permitting).  He explained the repair work that is to take place and the areas that will be done.  Karen Varner thanked the GM for expediting the areas on Corral that needed repairing.  Director Farren added information regarding YSPUC’s equipment purchase for calibrating our meters in place to see if they are reading correctly.  Doug Hyak, association/audience member and YSPUC staff member explained this problem to the audience that didn’t attend the earlier YSPUC meeting. 

 

MOTION:  A motion was made to enter the General Manager’s Report into the minutes. M/S/C (Farren, McDonough), Voice vote.  Ayes: 7, (Swire, McDonough, Clark, Zoeller, Cruce, Farren, Loard), Nays: 0.  Motion carried. 

 

XI.   Committee Reports

1. ECC – Tom Swire

Tom Swire stated that there are no new homes except one for 2010 (so far); minor approvals have taken place, such as, fences, house colors and a new pool. 

1. Communications/Events Committee – Dianne Cruce

Dianne Cruce stated they determined that all events put on by the Events Committee should be self-supporting.  They are planning a mother-son fishing derby on May 1^st.  There’s a problem with the Dept. of Fish & Game.  Moving fish from one lake to another has been deemed illegal.  They will be having a meeting tomorrow to possibly discuss an alternative event.  She invited attendees to the meeting.  The explained that the Com Com is working to make communication within YLP more effective.  They’ve been working on a new website.  She explained their reasoning for this.  They need more information from Patti Bisnett, YLOA Office member, before they proceed.  The Com Com will meet tomorrow and asked for more attendees.  Patti Bisnett added more information regarding YLOA’s new software’s capabilities.  A brief discussion took place regarding the possible fishing derby.  They spoke about having a Farmer’s Market after Memorial Day.  Patti asked Ms. Cruce if she could explain the problems with the website.  Elaine Loard added information she had regarding the website.  They discussed the website amongst themselves regarding the website past and present.  Patti explained about the counter on the website.  She added she could get this information. 

1. Golf Committee – Jim Ross

Mr. Ross stated they have a couple of tournaments coming up.  May 1^stis “May Day Play Day” which is sponsored by the Ladies Club.  There will be hot dogs, water and drinks on the course for the players.  There are only 10 players signed up for the NCGA tournament at this time.  He asked for more players to join.  He stated the Dietrich’s, the Ladies Club and the Goshgarian’s are donating picnic benches for the pergola.  The Men’s Club has come up with the new By Laws.  They haven’t voted on it yet.  They bought new flags for the course.  They ordered a new driving range net for the posts.  They’ve completed aerating the greens, which will make the greens perfect for the summer.  They asked for volunteers to aerate and 18 showed up and they completed the job in only 2 ½ hours!  Normally it takes about 5 hours to do.  They had good equipment.  Pre-emergent herbicide will be applied on Friday.  Fertilizing of the course will be done sometime in May.  This will set up the course for the summer and tournament play in the near future.  Elaine Loard asked about the pre-emergent herbicide.  Mr. Ross spoke of the herbicide maintenance program.  He explained the types of weeds and grass they don’t want on the golf course. 

 

XII.   Considerations of YSPUC Proposals to YLOA – Michael Neveu

YSPUC Board President, Al Clark explained that YSPUC joined a water group called RWMG of Madera.  He explained to the audience that they signed a new MOU.  They agreed in the earlier YSPUC Board meeting to extend their input into the group. 

 

XIII. Old Business

1. Newsletter – Mark Zoeller

Treasurer Zoeller asked for this to be placed on the agenda because we keep circulating draft copies of a proposed newsletter.  He doesn’t recall the board ever approving the newsletter.  He stated his concerns regarding the newsletter issues, necessities and possible costs.  He explained the past practices of communication to the membership.  Director Cruce explained how GM Neveu asked the Com Com to resume the “Sue Byers” newsletter.  It would be strictly Elaine and her inputting a trial one at this time.  The formatted entry would go to management for finalization.  A discussion took place amongst the directors and GM.  The GM explained that the Com Com is still working on a draft.  He explained the monthly Blue Heron newsletter.  He doesn’t see a problem with the committee offering their own newsletter.  Vice President Loard added that all the board committees are strictly advisors to the board.  They are to come to the board with suggestions for the board to approve or disapprove.  This is what they are working on.  Questions and answers took place amongst the board and audience.  The Board gave their “blessing” for the committee to put together the newsletter. 

1. Courtesy Shuttle – Phil Farren

Director Farren brought this up for liability and safety reasons.  He explained he wanted to come up with a shuttle to help those who need a ride home instead of driving after spending time in the lounge.  The GM explained that a courtesy shuttle will place immediate liability on us.  This information came from our Security Department, Madera County, Madera County Sheriff’s Department and our insurance company.  The problem with volunteers is the liability is directly on the volunteer and indirectly on the company.  He explained different options they could take, but none would work. Questions and statements were vocalized from the audience and board members. 

 

XIV. New Business

1. YLP 40^thBirthday Party – Mark Zoeller

Director Cruce stated that Mark Zoeller informed them that YLP was turning 40 pretty soon.  He suggested we have a birthday event.  He has volunteered himself to help with this event.  The Events Committee has met and they’ve decided to have this the day of the Annual Meeting.  She explained this event would not be self-supporting.  They would like to work with Chef Christian to work out a small lunch.  This is still in the developmental stages.  They asked for help and donations for this event.  They asked the board if they would like them to pursue this.  A discussion took place regarding this event. 

 

MOTION.  A motion was made to move forward with the Birthday Party Event.  M/S/C (McDonough, Zoeller) Ayes: 7, (Swire, McDonough, Clark, Zoeller, Cruce, Farren, Loard), Nays: 0.  Motion carried. 

 

1. Trail Projects – Al Clark

Director Clark stated the Trail Committee met 3-4 weeks ago.  They discussed a number of things.  He explained there is a lot of foot traffic on Corral and the parkway to the lake.  They have  suggested putting a footpath on the roadway.  He would like the board to approve the Road’s Department to look into this.  They want it to go from Yosemite Springs to Stetson.  Most of this area is flat and needs a little improvement.  They would use inexpensive material and would be easy to maintain.  A discussion took place at this time.  There was money put away for this project.  Audience members gave suggestions for the footpath.  Another area off of Long Hollow (parcel) has the potential to be a recreation area for horseback riding or hiking.  The Road’s Department could cut a roadway to create a parking lot for the vehicles and horse trailers.  His main concern is security since this area is secluded.  There will be a need for an access gate. This is also in the budget if approved.  He’s asked the GM to do preliminary work on this.  The GM spoke of the plan and the requirement of a permit.  He would like to ask the neighbor’s in the area first. 

 

MOTION.  A motion was made to conceptually approve and go ahead with the report and gather information.  M/S/C (Clark, McDonough) Ayes: 7, (Swire, McDonough, Clark, Zoeller, Cruce, Farren, Loard), Nays: 0.  Motion carried. 

 

1. Budget Approval – Tom Swire

President Swire stated that the board met to go over the budget for the next fiscal year.  He explained they had set up a budget, which includes a reserve contribution of $38K, which includes Capital Expenditures of a little over $50K and the use of Repair and Replacement Expenditures of about $190K.  They’ve decreased the Annual Assessment by approximately 2.2% from last year.  Last year’s assessment was $816 and is now $798.  He stated that the additional $25 yearly fee for the aerobic system inspections has stayed the same. 

 

MOTION.  A motion was made to approve the budget.  M/S/C (Zoeller, Cruce) Ayes: 7, (Swire, McDonough, Clark, Zoeller, Cruce, Farren, Loard), Nays: 0.  Motion carried. 

 

1. Rec Committee Recommendation for Rec Center – Elaine Loard

Vice President Loard asked Recreation Committee member, Sandy Johnson to speak to the board on her behalf at this time.  Mrs. Johnson stated that the committee meets the 1^stThursday of the month at 7:00pm inside the Clubhouse.  She invited interested persons to their meetings.  She explained the committee’s recommendation regarding the Rec Center.  The percentage of monies from recycling would go towards groups within YLP and the other percentage would go towards the committee to help out with the center.  They believe that recycling needs better advertising.  They would like it to go in the proposed new newsletter.  She explained the hard time they are having with the sorted plastic collection.  The GM is looking into an alternative or they may have to stop taking it.  Vice President Loard spoke to Frank Bigelow’s office and was told that only 15% of household plastic is getting sorted.  They suggested that we pay for a bin to collect this plastic.  The committee would like to have a fundraiser by getting donations for tri-tip dinners, which is still in discussion stages right now.  Sandy mentioned areas that the committee is asking the Board to approve conceptually: an additional volleyball court, minor improvements to the area surrounding the basketball courts and the implementation of the dog park.  GM stated that this is a recommendation from the committee.  The donated  proceeds would stay “within” the park.  He explained the split of proceeds is 60%-40% at this time.  A lengthy discussion took place at this time. 

 

MOTION.  A motion was made to allow the committee to continue putting together a master plan in concept by the June Board meeting.  M/S/C (McDonough, Zoeller)Ayes: 7, (Swire, McDonough, Clark, Zoeller, Cruce, Farren, Loard), Nays: 0.  Motion carried. 

 

1. Solar Plan – Elaine Loard

Vice President Loard reminded the board and audience when Tom Cotter of Real Goods Solar came and gave a presentation at the February Board Meeting.  He offered the membership little or no cost solar to lower their electric bill.  He is wanting to come back to do a town hall meeting to offer this again.  She explained that solar companies will not spend time and money to put together a solar plan if we don’t commit to their company.  She wants approval to spend up to $5000 on a solar plan from an architect/engineer.

 

MOTION.  A motion was made to back the town halls with Real Good Solarto see if there is an interest in the people and to assist in the creation of a solar plan with our $5000 with the idea that we’ll get it back with the money that people who sign up for solar that the company gives back to YLOA.  M/S/C (Loard, McDonough)

 

A lengthy discussion ensued.  The Board decided to complete the discussion and motion in the Executive Session after the board meeting.

1. Clean Up the Park Weekend – Tom Swire     

President Swire explained that the money isn’t in the budget and would like the board to consider charging the members for this.  They discussed the amount the GM would like to charge for this event per load.  He thought of $5 per vehicle and would limit it and charge more per size of vehicle.  A discussion from audience members had shown their approval of charging for this event.

 

MOTION.  A motion was made to charge a minor fee for Clean Up the Park Day.  Amount is to be determined by the GM.  M/S/C (McDonough, Farren) Ayes: 6, (Swire, McDonough, Clark, Zoeller, Cruce, Farren), Nays: 0.  Motion carried.

 

XV. Announcement of Previous Executive Session

                        The Board met on March 16, 2010 to discuss legal issues.       

 

XVI. Director's Comments

            President Swire spoke of a LOL meeting with realtors in the area.  They talked about property values, loans, failures, foreclosures, reverse mortgages, etc.  He mentioned they would like them to return for a Town Hall Meeting to allow the membership to attend.  He mentioned the Hazardous Waste on June 19^that Yosemite High School and Tire Amnesty Event in North Fork with info in the YLOA Office.

 

XVII. Adjourn to Executive Session

            The Board adjourned to Executive Session at 9:10pm.  

           

XVIII. Adjournment of Meeting

                        Executive Session adjourned at 10:20pm.