New Year s Eve Wednesday December 31, 2014

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1 THE November December 2014 LODGE LOG B L U E L A K E S P R I N G S H O M E O W N E R S A S S O C I AT I O N BLSHA Invites You to a New Year s Eve Wednesday December 31, 2014 Begins at 7 p.m. Come Celebrate New Year s Eve at SNOWFLAKE LODGE Your hosts: Dan & Deb Hernandez Put on your glitz, dancing shoes and grab your noise makers for a fun evening!! Specialty Cocktails Social Hour A Gourmet Five Course Dinner Featuring Hors D Oeuvres French Onion Soup Salmon & Fennel Cakes Belgian Endive Salad Kurobuta Pork Chops Winter Wonderland Cake Pops Wine & Champagne for New Year s Toast Price $73 per person Music provided by Sweet Harmony Entertainment MEMBERS ONLY Paid reservations Starting November 11 thru December 10, 2014 GUESTS OF MEMBERS A limit of 2 guests Starting December 12 thru December 27, 2014 (Reservations accepted on a first-come, first-serve basis) Payment is due at the time of reservation and members will be charged the full amount for cancellations after December 29 or no shows. For reservations please call the Business Office at The Lodge Log 1

2 2014 Calendar of Events Tuesday Night Bridge: Every Tuesday at 7 p.m. Marilyn Szukalski Thursday Morning Duplicate Bridge: Second Thursdays at 9:30 a.m. Bev Vasquez Friday Morning Bridge: Every Friday at 9:30 a.m. Bobbie Neely Potluck: (September 2014 through May 2015) Second Wednesdays at 5:30 p.m. Linda Penney Maureen Dinnocenzo Texas Hold em: (September 2014 through May 2015) Second Thursdays at 2:00 p.m. Cathy Fitzpatrick Louise Cooke Mahjong: First and Third Thursdays at 10:00 a.m. Leni Salayko Holiday Brunch: Sunday, November 30 at 11 a.m. New Year s Eve Party: Wednesday, December 31 at 7 p.m. Manager s Report Blue Lake Springs HOA Lake Improvement Project The dredging of the two Blue Lake Springs common interest lakes, Snowflake Lake and Fly in Lake is necessary to improve water quality, repair Snowflake Lake drain control values, remove the build up of silt and invasive plants and to repair a long known leak in Fly in Lake dam. The last time changes were made to the lakes by dredging was in After a Project Manager (Civil Engineer) is hired, he/she will create scale drawings of the lakes and identify the volume of material to be removed. The Project Manager will advise the HOA Board of Directors, apply for necessary permits and inspections. This will identify the estimated cost of dredging the lakes and allow an informed discussion and assessment vote by the BLS Home Owners and Board of Directors. After dredging and repairs are complete, additional improvements will include mechanical aeration of the lakes, improving landscaping, replacement of restrooms and showers at Fly in Lake. The dredging of the lakes and related improvements will insure the continued summer use of these two very valuable assets. If there is any member who knows of someone who may need a sympathy card, please call the Sunshine Lady, Joan Shawver at The Lodge Log

3 I want to take this opportunity to congratulate Tony and his staff for the outstanding summer season. Despite some glitches, the staff performed at their very best, providing our members with a program which any HOA would be proud to be able to give its members. We, as homeowners, are very fortunate to have so many amenities for such a reasonable assessment fee. As we move into the fall, winter, and spring seasons, the events committee will be providing the Association some special programs. The Halloween Casino Night was a screaming success. Don t forget to make your reservations for a scrumptious Holiday Brunch, an unforgettable Winter Wonderland New Year s Eve, and the Spring Fling. Along with these special events, the committee provides other activities such as monthly potluck dinners, several bridge groups, mahjong, and Texas Hold em, all provided by volunteers. We hope that our members will take advantage of these activities. In an effort to engage our new members into enjoying our many amenities, Director Linda Penney will be instituting a special New Members evening which will take place on a quarterly basis. President s Message over 20 years and the dredging is a necessity in order to preserve the two lakes that are a large part of our community. This is a major project that will require significant funding. The subject of funding is another issue that we all face. We have approximately 300 multiple lots in our community. Some of the multiple owners do not want to pay dues on their multiple lot(s). This issue has cost the Association thousands of dollars over the years. Think for a moment, 300 x $ $134, would be added to the assessment fees of the remaining lot owners. Many of the multiple lot owners understand that they must pay dues on all their lots, and they do so willingly, but there are those that continue to protest and in doing so add unnecessary costs to the Association. My solution to this small group is simple: pay your dues willingly; combine your lots under one APN number; or sell your lot. I encourage you to take part in this wonderful community. If you haven t had the opportunity to dine at the restaurant, please consider doing so. You may bring your own libations at no charge and enjoy a very satisfying meal. Bev Vasquez, President Member Issues The Finance Committee, chaired by Treasurer Kevin Andel, is working diligently to create a budget for 2015 that will insure the continuation of our wonderful community and provide for the many issues that face us in the future. The dredging of the two lakes is a priority for the Association. The lakes have not been dredged in Business Office Closed November 27, 2014 December 24, 25, 2014 January 1, 2015 The Lodge Log 3

4 Holiday Brunch Sunday, November 30, :00 11:30 a.m.: Mimosas & Bloody Marys 11:30 a.m.: Brunch Menu Eggs Benedict Joe s Special Omelets Scrambled Eggs with Cheese Ball Tip Roast Carving Station Roasted Red Potatoes with Peppers and Onions Salsa Waffles with Syrup Bacon Sausage Links Spinach Salad Fresh Fruit Salad Parker House Rolls Orange and Cranberry Juice Coffee and Tea Adults: $21.00 Children: 6 10 years: $10.00 Children 5 and Under: FREE Tax and tip included Goody bags for children 10 years and younger. Raffle for a free dinner coupon at Snowflake Lodge. Hosts: Tom & Chris Gosswiller Payment is due at the time of reservation and members will be charged the full amount for cancellations after November 26 or no shows. For reservations, call The Lodge Log

5 Dear Members, Blue Lake Springs staff is continually striving to improve and add new amenities to the already great facilities. We thought that you may be interested in what other homeowners associations offer their memberships. HOA$Descrip.on$and$Annual$Assessment HOA$CODE HOA$Name Cabin$Lots Bare$Lots Total$Lots Full$Time$ Cabin$Dues Bare$Lot$Dues Notes BLS Blue Lake Springs $447 $447 BTV Big Trees Village* $395/$90 $395/$90 3 FM Forest Meadow $1,300 $1,300 1 LMP Lake Mont Pines $410 $290 MS Mill Woods Site $744 $744 2 SS Snowshoe Springs $530 $407 4 PB Pinebrook $255 $145 LP Lilac Park $148 $102 5 FIA Fly-In-Acres $100 $100 MM Meadowmont $20 $20 GR Grizzly Ridge $20 $20 Meadowview Town MT $ House SHR Sky High Ranch $ HOA FACILITIES AMENITIES CODE HOA$CODE LK PL CH SS TC VB BB HS SB PG BC BBQ PA PT BsB RV RS SP BLS Y Y BTV N FM Y LMP Y MS N SS N PB Y LP Y FIA 1 3 Y MM GR MT SHR MM, GR, LC, MT, SHR - No Facilities, some have annual social functions Notes:! 1. Includes road Maintenance. Five condo associations (44 units) which pay separate condo dues in addition to HOA dues.! 2. Millwoods (Master Association) Townhouse section has 32 units has dues of $1,560 to cover maintenance and insurance.! 3. Membership to Recreation facilities is not required.! 4. Includes water.! 5. Includes $10 maintenance fee! 6. Includes Outside Maintenance LK - LAKE PL - POOL CH - CLUBHOUSE SS - SNACK SHACK TC - TENNIS COURT VB - VOLLEYBALL BB - BASKETBALL BsB - BASEBALL FIELD HS - HORSESHOES SB - SHUFFLEBOARD PG - PLAYGROUND BC - BOCCE BALL COURT BBQ - BBQ PITS PA - PICNIC AREA PT - PICNIC TABLES RV - RV SPOTS SP - SOICAL PROGRAMS RS - RESTAURANT Information obtained from the Ebbetts Pass Property Owners Council The Lodge Log 5

6 The Welcome Back Potluck on September 10, 2014 was attended by 68 BLS members and 6 guests, for a total of 74 people. This was the first Potluck of the season and all enjoyed the Anything Goes Theme. The food was hearty with a great variety of main dishes, salads, wonderful appetizers and as usual delicious desserts. There was wine available and everyone enjoyed the decorations highlighting fall. Thanks to all for bringing such great food. A big thank you to the Kitchen Committee: Mary Rippetoe, Bob Doten, Denise & Tom Schneider, Pauline Kramer and Bobbi & Larry Haskell. I also want to thank the bartenders: Paul Penney and Jimmy Cooke. Our Bingo callers, John Vasquez and Harry Tittle did a great job, as always. John and his jokes were especially witty and humorous for our first Potluck of the season. Thanks to Sheila Silcox for helping sell bingo cards. Also thanks goes to the Snowflake Lodge staff for setting up the tables and helping with clean up. Congratulations to all our winners! The winner of the Snowflake Dessert Certificate was Cam Deen. Sidney Hawkins won the 50/50 raffle. Brian Raley and Roy Silcox won the first 2 Bingo games. Barbara Brown won the 3rd game, and the 4th game was won by Bobbi Haskell. Cam Deen was our lucky winner for the Blackout Bingo game. The next Potluck is on October 8, The Potluck News Chairmen for the season will be Paul and Linda Penney. The Cochairmen will be Jo and Maureen Dinnocenzo. John Vasquez and Harry Tittle have agreed to come back this year as our Bingo Callers. Our Potluck callers for the season will be Anne Friborg, Bev Vasquez, Kaaren Babb, Maureen Dinnocenzo, Michele Stahlberg, Denise Schneider, Linda Penney and Judy Boles. We need volunteers to help in the kitchen next year. Volunteers sign up for one Potluck night, plate the desserts as they come in, keep food warm in the kitchen during the social hour (5:30 6:30), then serve the food from the buffet tables at 6:30. If you can volunteer for one night, please call Linda Penney at If you are new to Potluck and would like to be included in next season s fun, call Linda Penney at to be placed on our calling list. Enjoy our start of a lovely and hopefully a rainy fall followed by a snowy winter! Linda Penney, Chair Please take the time to check out our website and sign up to receive the Lodge Log, Approved Board Meeting Minutes, Weekly Specials for Snowflake Lodge, and Special Announcements. Help us to keep you informed. It is important for us to have your current cabin and home phone number on file especially in case of emergency. Please call the Association office to provide us with this information. Thank you The Lodge Log

7 I hope that by the time you read this that our Fire Season is over and we have had no more fires in the Ebbetts Pass area. We have been very fortunate this year not to have to go through what the people have in the King fire and other bad fires we have had all over California. We must be diligent though in the course of our plan to get our community prepared for a Wild Land Fire (WLF) and not have the devastation we have seen on TV. We are doing well but there is still work to be done. Because of the large amount of failed second inspections I was unable to follow up on all of them. Those that have not done the work identified on your first Inspection Notice will receive a Notice next year and the follow up process will continue. Thank you to all who responded positively and did the work required around your homes. We made huge progress this year because of the work you have done. Manzanita is a very hot burning plant and it is a very serious issue for us especially in the Unit 7, 8 and some of Unit 3 and 5. These areas have so much Manzanita in them. Removing this from around your house on the 30 foot area or thinning it out drastically will be what is needed to create a cooler heat around your home. Fire Ladder Problem is also a big issue with this plant where it is around the trees. I have met many of you in these Units and appreciate the cooperation with this issue. We are attempting to apply for our Fire Wise Designation this year along with several other subdivisions. We had our first Fire Wise Community Committee meeting in September. Louise Cooke is taking on the task of moving BLS through this process, thank you Louise for doing this. I will explain in a later VIP article the benefits to you as a home owner in getting this Fire Wise designation. I am starting the program to get 100 foot Fire Break s behind the homes that border our Subdivision. One of these large land owners has agreed to let us use his property as a test of how VIP we are going to physically do this. October 5th we will be meeting with the owner at his property and testing the piece of equipment which will be part of the process for this clearing. Oct. 9th I am meeting with CAL FIRE Battalion Chiefs and Joan Lark, Ebbetts Pass Fire Prevention Officer and Enforcement Officer for these unimproved properties. I will present my plan for this work for their OK. This is part of CAL FIRES and my plan to implement CAL FIRES plan to get us prepared for a WLF. This is why I am working all year around. I hope we can get started with this program by the end of October. I know I am in a race with time to accomplish all the work that needs to be done. There is work being done on a Perimeter defense around the Ebbetts Pass area as I write. Much of this is not evident to you because it is in areas you cannot see driving around. The work is similar to what you see as you travel above Arnold to Bear Valley to the left and right of the road. I want you to understand the scope of the work that is being done in the Ebbetts Pass area by many Agencies to help us to have the best chance we can of surviving a WLF. I wish you all Happy Holidays and again thank you for your cooperation in our Fire Prevention Program. Pete Padelford, your CAL FIRE BLS VIP Coordinator Welcome New Homeowners Nancy Dobson Unit 2 Ronald & Christine Giannini Unit 2 Rachel Stryker & Bradley Rowe Unit 4 Michael & Lisa Hailey Unit 7 Juan & Ana Ulloa Unit 7 Matthew & Amy Dale Unit 7 Amy Branner Unit 8 Cornelius, Jr. & Jane Knynenburg Unit 10 George & Barbara Harcrow Unit 11 Robert & Laurie Clark Unit 12 Nicholas Parker & Kaleb Loosbrock Unit 13 The Lodge Log 7

8 Reminders About the Snow Season The Calaveras County Department of Public Works would like to remind the residents of the County who live in areas subject to snow accumulation about the basic snow removal policies and procedures. Snow removal services are provided on approximately 150 miles of County roads. The State (Caltrans) provides snow removal services on State Highways. The Calaveras County Department of Public Works has adopted the following policy regarding snow removal and ice sanding on County maintained roadways. Snow Depth. Snowplowing operations start when there are 4 inches of snow on the roadway. Timing and Crowding. Once snow removal operations have begun, the County will continue to plow snow and push it back to the shoulders 24 hours a day, 7 days a week until removal is completed and in preparation for additional storms. During snowplow operations, a berm of snow is left in front of all driveways becoming the responsibility of the residents to clear. Priority. During a storm, main roads that provide access to state highways and minor connections, as well as school bus routes, have priority over other roads. Sanding. We do not sand snow. Due to the financial impact we have designated certain roads which will be sanded in order to maintain the main traffic routes. These include school bus routes and major thoroughfares. Chains. Calaveras County Ordinance No requires vehicles to have tire chains or traction control devices whenever necessary in order for vehicles to maintain traction while operating on County roads. Parking Restrictions. Calaveras County Ordinance No prohibits parking during snow removal operations and reads: The parking or standing of vehicles on the right-of-way of any county road during snow removal operations conducted by or on behalf of the County is prohibited. Snow removal operations shall be deemed to be ongoing whenever snow is present on the right-of-way of County road. This law provides for all such vehicles to be towed (at the owner s expense) so as not to interfere with snow removal operations and equipment. Ice. Ice scraping operations are done only in the daylight hours when the temperatures are sufficiently high and the snow becomes slushy. Attempts to shave ice under other circumstances have proven futile and have the effect of polishing the ice making it even more slippery. Do not shovel snow or put snow from driveways in the roadway as this creates a hazard for other drivers, a liability for you and is illegal. Sign up for the Blue Lake Springs service to get special notifications on snow conditions here at the Lodge. Go to our website home page at to sign up. 8 The Lodge Log

9 Texas Hold em Poker Texas Hold em poker started again in September for Blue Lake Springs Homeowners and their guests. All levels are welcome. Age: Adult Location: Snowflake Lodge Date: 2nd Thursday of the Month Beginners Class: 12:30 pm Time: 2:00 pm 4:30 pm Come join the fun! Reservations required for seating, Louise Cooke, Member to Member Letter We take issue with the President s Message in the last Lodge Log, which we find insulting to ALL Petitioners. The president s duty is to represent ALL Members including Petitioners. Members submitted more than the required number of Membership signatures on behalf of the majority of Members (ignored by Board) who want to stop the Board from repeating a recent disastrous, costly, and deceptive ploy of revising our CC&Rs ironically, for THEIR self-interest. The Board wasted $9,000 of our Dues cobbling together a legal strategy to AVOID letting you exercise your rights. The Petition was/is valid. Also contrary to the president s claim, the Office is not always the best source for objective information it s always good to know what your neighbors think, especially when the Association deviates from its ONLY legitimate purpose of operating the recreation facilities. Meddling beyond this purpose is why our Dues continue rising, and why they now overpay 3 managers to do the job done for decades by ONE. And, the ~ $100,000 annual deficit caused by the Restaurant subsidy for Friday/Saturday night dining cannot be justified by only a tiny fraction of members/guests benefitting from it over summer. Appreciating your support, James Clay Teresa Clay Lot 120, Unit 10 The comments and opinions of the authors are purely their own. The Association does not validate the authenticity of the content of the member s letter. Arnold: HOME IMPROVEMENT/SERVICE WORK REPLACING WALLHEATERS, CHANGING LIGHT FIXTURES. CEILING FAN INSTALLATION, EXTERIOR LIGHTING, ROOM ADDITION GUARDIAN GENERATORS-HOME, COMMERCIAL EMERSON CEILING FANS, SEA GULL LIGHT FIXTURES LET US BID YOUR NEXT PROJECT The Lodge Log 9

10 Blue Lake Springs Homeowners Association Assessment Collection Policy Revised October 17, 1998 This document sets forth the Blue Lake Springs Homeowners Association s policy regarding the collection of assessments pursuant to the Association s Conditions, Covenants, and Restrictions, its Bylaws, and California Civil Code sections 1366 and Assessments in General. The Association has a duty to levy regular and special assessments sufficient to perform its obligations under the governing documents and California law. Regular assessments are levied annually. 2. Obligation to Pay Assessments. Each assessment or charge is an obligation of the owner at the time the assessment or other sums are levied. Each assessment or charge is also a lien on the owner s lot from and after the time the Association causes a Notice of Delinquent Assessment to be recorded with the County Recorder s Office. 3. Notice of Assessments. Not less than thirty (30) days nor more than sixty (60) days before any increase in the annual assessment or any special assessment becomes due, the Association will give the owners notice of the assessment. Notice will be sent by first-class mail to addresses on the membership register as of the date of notice. The Board of Directors may elect from time to time to provide additional periodic statements of assessments and charges, but lack of such statements does not relieve the owners of the obligation to pay assessments. 4. Designation of Agent. The Board of Directors may designate an agent or agents to collect assessment payments and administer this Assessment Collection Policy. Such designated agent may be an officer of the Association, manager, banking institution, law firm or other appropriate agent. 5. Due Date/Delinquency Date of Assessments. Unless otherwise specified by the Board, an assessment is due on January 1st of each year. An annual assessment, or any portion thereof, is delinquent if it has not been received before May 1st of the year in which the assessment was levied. A special assessment, or any portion thereof, is delinquent if it has not been received as directed by the Board 15 days after the special assessment is due. 6. Interest Charges. The unpaid balance of an assessment account shall bear interest at the rate of 12% per annum (1% per month) calculated on the entire amount owed on the assessment account beginning on May 1st of the year in which the annual assessment was levied. A special assessment shall bear interest beginning on the 30th day after the special assessment was due. 7. Interest and Collection Charges. Any costs and fees incurred in processing and collecting delinquent amounts, including, without limitation, late and interest charges, charges for preparation of delinquency notices or referral for collection, postage and copies, and attorney s fees and costs, shall become an additional charge against the owner and the owner s lot and shall be subject to collection action pursuant to this policy. 8. Application of Payments. Payments shall be applied first to principal owed, then to interest and collection charges. 9. Initial Delinquency Notice. Once an assessment, or any portion thereof, has become delinquent, the owner shall receive an initial delinquency notice stating all amounts past due and any known collection charges imposed as of the date of the notice, which may be in the form of a letter, monthly statement, past due notice, or any other form of writing or notice from the Association or its designated agent. 10. Notice of Intent to Record a Lien. If an assessment account remains unpaid for 60 days after it is due, the Association or its designated agent may, without further notice to the owner, refer the account for collection. Following referral, the Association s agent for collection shall notify the owner by certified mail that a lien will be recorded against the owner s lot unless the entire balance of the account is paid within fourteen (14) days and shall provide an itemized statement of the charges owed as of the date of the notice, including the costs of the notice of intent. The agent for collection may require that payment be made in certified funds. 11. Recording of Lien. A lien shall be recorded if, within the time period allowed the owner to pay the entire balance of the account, the owner fails to pay the entire balance or to petition the Board of Directors in writing for a payment agreement pursuant to paragraph 13.0 of this Policy. 10 The Lodge Log

11 12. Foreclosure. Foreclosure proceedings may commence thirty (30) days after recording the lien on the property if either the entire balance of the account has not been paid or a payment agreement has not been entered into with the Association. 13. Payment Agreement. Neither the Association nor its designated agent has any obligation to accept partial payments on an assessment account. An owner may petition the Board of Directors in writing for a payment agreement to allow the owner to make periodic payments on the entire balance of the assessment account, in addition to the ongoing assessment payments, in amounts and on a payment schedule agreed to by the Board of Directors. The Association has no obligation to enter into such a payment agreement. Any agreement entered into with the owner shall be reasonable, as determined by the Board in its sole discretion, and for the sole purpose of assuring that the best interests of the Association are served. The payment agreement shall be in writing and a provision shall be included that failure to meet any term of the agreement shall give the Board the right to immediately continue the collection process without further notice to the owner. 14. Recording of Release of Lien. A release of lien will not be recorded until the entire balance of the owner s account is paid. All charges incurred in recording a Release of Lien, including reasonable attorney s fees, will be charged to the account. 15. Dishonored Checks. At any time that the Association or its designated agent receives a check dishonored by the bank for any reason, a charge of $25.00 shall be imposed. The Board of Directors may immediately proceed with the collection process if the assessments are not paid within ten (10) days after notice of the dishonored check is sent to the owner. The Association may also seek damages in accordance with California Civil Code section Dispute of Charges. If the owner questions the accuracy of the calculation of an account or the amount charged to the assessment account, a written objection to the specific charges must be made to the Board of Directors within thirty (30) days of the date notice is sent to the owner of the charge or balance. A telephone call will not reserve any rights. The disputed amount may remain unpaid during the investigation, but undisputed portions of the account must be paid before the delinquency date in order to avoid collection charges. No action will be taken to collect the disputed amounts until completion of the investigation and a decision is made by the Board of Directors, unless the Board determines the owner is acting in bad faith and takes action under paragraph 17 of this Policy. The owner must provide the following information in writing regarding any dispute: a. The owner s name, mailing address, and account number. b. The exact dollar amount in dispute or in error. c. For each charge or payment in dispute, an explanation of the reasons the owner believes there is an error, with sufficient detail such as dates, names and check numbers, so that the dispute may be investigated efficiently and effectively. If the owner does not know how the error was made, that statement may be made, but the dates and check numbers, etc., must be given. d. Copies of checks, letters or other documents referred to or claimed must accompany the written objection. 17. Failure of Owner to Cooperate. All membership rights are suspended immediately when dues/ special assessment or any portion thereof are delinquent as allowed by California law and the Association s governing documents. 18. Other Remedies. The Association reserves the right to avail itself of any other remedy permitted by law and the Association s governing documents to collect assessments and related costs and charges, including but not limited to bringing an action in Small Claims, Municipal or Superior Court. Such remedies may be taken in addition to or in lieu of any action already taken, and commencement of one remedy shall not prevent the Association from electing at a later date to pursue another remedy. 19. Address of the Association and the Board of Directors. Owners should respond in writing or make payments to the address as directed by the designated agent. If no address is given, responses and petitions should be mailed to the Association at the following address: Board of Directors Blue Lake Springs Homeowners Association Post Office Box 712 Arnold, CA Sufficiency of Notice. Except for notice that under California law must be sent by certified mail, notice is sufficient if either hand delivered or mailed first class, postage prepaid, to the owner at the address on the membership register at the time of notice. 21. Void Provisions. If any provision of this Policy is determined to be null and void, all other provisions of the Policy shall remain in full force and effect. The Lodge Log 11

12 Unapproved Minutes of the 2014 Annual Meeting Please review the 2014 Annual Meeting Minutes 1. Call to Order: President Pollak called the meeting to order at 11:05 a.m. 2. Introduction of Board: President Pollak introduced Vice President Bev Vasquez, Treasurer Kevin Andel, Secretary Michele Stahlberg, Directors Pete Padelford, Doug Nunes and Paul Penney. 3. Credential s Committee Report: Inspector of Election Harriet Johns reported that there are approximately 130 members present, therefore due to a lack of a Quorum, the Minutes of the 2013 Annual Meeting will be approved at the next Board of Directors Meeting on June 21, Approval of Minutes (2013 Annual Meeting): President Pollak informed the members that if they have any additions or changes to the Minutes to contact the General Manager or come to the meeting on June 21, 2014, when the 2013 Annual Meeting Minutes will be discussed and approved. 5. President s Report: President Pollak gave the following report: There have been improvements in amenities in all areas including a larger beach area, a new BBQ area by the lower tennis courts, improved horseshoe pits and the area surrounding the bocce ball, table tennis and shuffleboard area. There have also been many improvements to the lodge with outside dining available in the summertime. The Directors and Staff have received many compliments from members about the resort improvements. Credit goes to the staff of all departments where their positive and creative approach to better serving our membership helps to insure the high quality and enduring value of our BLS amenities, now and in the future. The BLS Website was upgraded and is very user friendly and navigable to important information. If you have not done so yet, consider signing up for the BLS s. With our current fire danger and water issues, it is essential to know what is happening in our Association. Treasurer Andel and his experienced Finance Committee is constantly striving to improve our income and expense cash flows and they are already preparing early for the 2015 budget. Asset Reserves investment management is central to the BLS assets and is managed very effectively while always looking forward for improvement as conditions change. Looking forward, we need to always plan for our improvement opportunities and preventative maintenance items. One pending and challenging maintenance item is the demanding regular maintenance of Lodge Lake and Fly In Lake. Over the years, a natural occurrence of silt and lake bed build up happens. In order to maintain a healthy lake bottom environment, a strong healthy dam, and safe adequate water depths, a dredging action is required soon. We are already taking steps with various agencies to begin planning our action plan. A start date will most likely occur within the next couple of years. This is a Reserve Fund project. A weather fact possible delaying the dredging project is the current severe drought. Since draining the lakes is the most economical method for dredging, we must plan accordingly. The membership will be updated regularly on our website as the plan develops. The outstanding resort-like amenities in our BLSHOA community are exceedingly well managed and maintained with an exceptional benefit of recreational enjoyment resulting in BLS having a higher level of real estate property value. I appreciate and welcome your constructive feedback and ideas to further improve our efforts. We are all volunteers working together in a positive manner that makes BLS the wonderful environment it is today. In closing, I wish to say that serving this Association during these past three years has been rewarding. It is important to recognize the Directors, who have instituted many positive changes and improvements with a professional, wise, and ethical business approach. Our HOA has a sound operational foundation and a clear path forward. Thank you for the honor to have served you these past three years. 6. Treasurer s Report: Treasurer Andel gave the following report: Let me start by saying our finances are in good order. The annual audit was conducted by the firm of Levy, Erlanger & company, CPAs of San Francisco. They reported our financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of Blue Lake Springs HOA as of December 31, 2013, and the results of its operations and its cash flows are in conformity with the U.S. Generally Accepted Accounting Principles, also known as GAAP. Financially the HOA is healthy. The Reserve Account has a balance of approximately $386, The Lodge Log

13 I like to look back at our financial history to help us take a direction in the future, so I took a three year look comparing the end of 2013 income over 2011 income and interestingly enough our annual income is up 11.7% and our annual expenses are up 11.8%. This is good news considering how much things have gone up in cost such as food, gas and soon the minimum wage. Management has done a good job controlling expenses and keeping them in line with our income. In looking at 2014 our income is just under budget by 1.5% but expenses are also up by 1.2%. There were many projects that the maintenance staff was able to do this winter due to the dry weather, so the expenses were mainly a timing issue. As President Pollak mentioned the largest project on the docket in the next couple of years is the dredging of our two lakes. Our records indicate the last time these lakes were dredged was in the mid 80 s. The cost to dredge the lakes is in the neighborhood of $175,000. This expense will be a large percentage of our current Reserve account. An Association the size of ours needs a substantial Reserve to handle projects of this size as well as maintain all of our facilities. We maintain, and regularly update, a three year look at projects to ensure we have adequate funding in the Reserve account for the future. I d like to note that proper maintenance allows us to save money by avoiding replacing items before their scheduled life expectancy is over. Management is doing a very good job with its maintenance program. In addition to the lakes another large upcoming project will be the Amphitheatre. It will include new seating, stairs and a new screen for those outside summer night movies. The estimated cost is $20,000. This past year our management team completed projects around the property that included a new beach storage area, a new family zone, new picnic area and a new beach area at Fly In Lake. If you haven t had a chance to walk the grounds I encourage you to do so. The grounds look like something we can all be proud of. The maintenance staff have done a wonderful job. The Finance Committee had considered purchasing new accounting software since the current accounting program did not provide all the reporting we needed to produce a budget. Research showed we would not only have to purchase new software, but it would require swapping out our existing accounting program. Management found a way to pull actual data from the current accounting program and transfer to a spread sheet which allowed us to create and customize our own reports. This resulted in a significant savings for the Association. I d like to close by saying how much I appreciate the support of the Board and volunteer members on the Finance Committee. It truly takes teamwork to deliver a solid working budget. Additionally, we carefully manage our financials throughout the year, not just around the budget season, so the business expertise and business acumen they bring to the table is invaluable. 7. General Manager s Report: Manager Abila gave the following report: Manager Abila began by sharing with the members that he has worked for BLS for 23 years, and is honored to be part of this association. He further stated that this year the maintenance staff took it upon themselves with my guidance, to improve several areas on the facility. We have a really good maintenance staff led by Facilities Manager Owens. The staff is already planning improvements for next year. Manager Owens changed all the sprinklers to better economize water usage due to the drought conditions. We are using one of our wells to keep Lodge Lake filled with fresh water. Currently the water levels are topped off but we know that due to the drought and impending summer temperatures, we are going to see the lake level drop. However we have to watch how much water we pump into the lake because it could affect our irrigation well. We will have to closely monitor the situation. The bigger issue is Fly in Lake. The flow will slow down and with the lack of water we received this year, we are predicting it will happen sooner. There isn t much we can do but monitor the situation. We do have a leak at the dam. The California Division of Safety of Dams did an inspection of our dam and found everything to be in order. The inspector informed us that it is leaking the same amount as last year. During the dredging process that President Pollak talked about, the leak can hopefully be fixed. Another issue to be aware of is Swimmer s Itch. This is a rash caused by a small parasite released from snails. It is more prevalent in the shallow water of the lakes. When there is an adequate flow of water, there is less chance of getting this but this year we will see more cases. There is a new product for Swimmer s Itch called Itch Be Gone. It is a suntan lotion that is costly but it seems to work. The Website was modernized and it is up and running. Although we had planned to have the Webcam working by now, we were unable to complete the process due to technical difficulties. Since the webcam will only be activated during winter, it should be working by then. I will turn it over to our VIP Coordinator, Pete Padelford. The Lodge Log 13

14 8. VIP: Director and VIP Coordinator Pete Padelford gave the following report: This year we had a record number of inspection notices go out. The drought conditions have left us with dangerously dry terrain. I focused on teaching the VIP inspectors how to inspect properties. I ve been out to 37 properties to help members figure out what they need to do. When I started this program we had 10 inspectors. Now we have 37 inspectors. It is possible now to train new inspectors with seasoned inspectors. There are two things we are asking you to do with your property: clean the property following the PCR rules and make sure your address signage is prominently placed for the fire department. It is also important that you sign up with our service in order to receive important alerts that we send out during the fire season. This year will probably be one of the worst fire seasons we have had. Educating the membership on what needs to be done to prevent a wild land fire is my focus this year and the results have been evident. The membership has responded by doing an outstanding job in clearing their properties. The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), has taken the binders we use for our inspectors and are going to copy it for other subdivisions to use. The Firewise Communities Recognition Program has taken our website and put it on the Web for anyone in the nation to view, it is called blsvip.com. It is possible to get a Firewise designation for Arnold and we are working with all our local VIP Coordinators to accomplish this. Other communities who have qualified for this designation are getting their insurance rates lowered and the insurance companies are less apt to cancel policies for mountain communities. There is also the possibility of getting grant money to help clean up large areas that in the past have been neglected. I now would like to introduce Eric Kurtz, our departing Fire Chief. Eric Kurtz stated that his number one purpose for being at this meeting is to say thank you to all the VIP inspectors that have taken the time and effort to continue a program that is beyond successful. The fire department s primary purpose is to support the VIPs. The fire district cannot do their job without the VIPs and it shows. This year is potentially the worst fire season I ve seen. We are long overdue for a major fire in this area. Another concern is the increased number of tree beetles in Arnold. The pine trees are being effected due to their weakened condition. Our goal is to continue the education process and put emphasis for homeowners to take responsibility so firefighters can save their property. 9. Blue Lake Springs Watch: Director Nunes gave the following report: Burglaries in this area are cyclic due to the fact that many cabins are second homes and are empty during the winter. Two strategies have helped: the BLS Watch program in which homeowners watch their neighbor s property and the new resident deputy who is in Arnold part time. Having your neighbor s phone number so you can call them with any suspicious activity is also helpful even if you are not part of the BLS Watch Program. The BLS Watch Program is a volunteer organization not connected directly with the BLSHOA. When confronted with a suspicious situation, report what you see to the County Sheriff s Office. No member should take any action or confront a suspect in any way. Never carry or brandish a weapon even if you have a permit. Remember, you are not a law enforcement officer. 10. Comments from Members: Before Comments from Members, Manager Abila informed the members of the following: On May 9, 2014 the Association received a petition signed by association members representing at least 5% of the membership for the purpose of calling a special meeting for a vote of the members on the issue of whether the CC & Rs shall be renewed for another 20 years term. In accordance with the law we provided you with a notice of the petition on May 27, In the letter we communicated that the Board was working with legal counsel to determine whether the petition was valid. The Association through the legal counsel concluded that the CC & Rs do not authorize a vote to renew the terms and thus a vote on this issue would be improper. For that reason the purposed vote would be improper and thus the petition is invalid. The basis for the conclusion is set forth in the CC & Rs. The CC & Rs, Article 4, Section 3 provide that the provision of the Declaration shall continue in effect for a term of twenty (20) years from the date of adoption by the membership. Thereafter it shall be automatically extended for successive periods of twenty (20) years until the membership of the association decides to terminate the CC & Rs by a simple majority vote of the members. The date on which the CC & RS automatically renew is 20 years from the date of adoption by the membership. The amendment s approval process was quite complicated. The Association actually needed a court approval for the amendment but the adoption date was Jan 13, 1994, the date on which the court amended the approval. The CC & Rs automatically renewed in Jan. 13, The vote to renew the CC & Rs is not valid. There will be a letter going out after the next Board of Directors meeting on Jun 21st to the membership explaining this. 14 The Lodge Log

15 Question: A member suggested that candidates for the Board of Directors submit a picture on election material of the candidates running for office so we know who they are. Also, the showers are being used extensively. The member was suggesting putting a sign on the door stating please limit showers to 5 minute. The member also asked if there was Wi fi available and if the Association had an awards program for those staff members who bring creative ideas to the HOA. Answer: Manager Abila responded, stating that there are two things they are looking: waterless urinals in the men s room and timers in the showers. As for the WiFi: Yes, we do have WiFi and have improved it. Also, there is an award system. Member Statement: A member informed the membership that phone books were being thrown in the driveways of Arnold homes. Lodge Manager, John Miller offered a response. I wrote a letter to the company and they responded and promised to pick up the phone books. Question: The same member was concerned about dogs running loose. If I write a letter to animal control will it do any good? Response: Manager Abila suggested they write a letter to Animal Services. He had written a letter about an incidence that took place this month and the department did respond. They are taking a more proactive response to complaints. Member Statement: A member stated that just recently he realized that we no longer have security patrol in the subdivision. Response: Manager Abila stated that the Association will be revamping the security department. One factor to consider is that the security guards are authorized to patrol only the common area. When they are out in the subdivision, they can only observe and report. Their certification is for the common area. 11. Awards Presentation: Vice President Vasquez informed the membership that two directors are leaving the Board, Paul Penney and Guy Pollak. She stated, Paul has dedicated three years to serving the Association. His pleasant demeanor and positive social skills have helped this Board achieve a successful outcome to a great many business issues. He has chaired the facilities committee for 3 years. If you haven t taken an opportunity to walk around the facility please do. I think you will be pleasantly surprised. The maintenance crew under the direction of Facilities Manager Owens has done an outstanding job. Paul has been a positive board member and he will continue to service the subdivision on the BLSMWC Board. We all thank him for his fine service and wish him well. Vice President Vasquez presented Paul with a certificate to the golf shop at SWCC. Vice President Vasquez stated that Guy Pollak has served the Association for three years, treasurer for two years and one year as president. She stated, his leadership and business skills helped the Association develop a more efficient and business like atmosphere. He has been a conduit of the Board. His passion and strong leadership abilities have been instrumental in improving and developing much needed changes in the operation and policies of the Association. Because of his dedication our association is much stronger. Guy never lost sight of what is best for our members. In addition, it was quite clear that the reserve account of the association needed to become much stronger. Thanks to Guy we now have in place a policy that will build the asset reserve in a meaningful manner. We hope he will continue to participate with his knowledge and expertise in affairs of the Association. Vice President Vasquez presented Guy with a certificate to SWCC for his service and wish him well in the future. Secretary Stahlberg informed the membership about the July 4th Parade. 12. Election Results: Inspector of Election, Harriet Johns, thanked the members who helped count the ballots for this election, Anne Friborg, Sheila Silcox and Martha Votaw. The 2014 Election for Directors resulted in a total of 686 ballots received; nine ballots were disqualified for lack of signature; Twenty-five ballots were abstentions. Two Board Members were elected, Linda Penney and Mike McAtee. 13. Adjournment: President Pollak adjourned the meeting at 12:20 p.m. Respectfully submitted, Recording Secretary Marsha Hampton Approved for Posting: The Lodge Log 15

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18 Rec Ramblings Winter is here and we are missing all of our summer friends. Preparations begin for another fun filled summer recreation season and we would like to ask for your help. We have added Family Game Night to our schedule and need a few items. Perhaps you have out grown these games or tucked them away in the back of a closet. On our wish list of gently used games are: We are also looking for 100 piece puzzles. Should you wish to help us out please bring your contributions to the facility and we will happily use your contributions. Thanking you in advance for your generosity. Judith A. Anderson, Summer Recreation Director Sorry Spot It Shut the Box Yahtzee Candy Land Chutes and Ladders Apples to Apples Junior Jenga Scattergories SECURITY & COMMUNICATIONS, INC. Randy Fox 908 Moran Road P.O. Box 3293 Arnold, CA Tel: Fax Alarm License# ACB 5306 Contractors License# Blue Lake Springs Homeowners Association Office Hours Tuesday Saturday 8:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Snowflake Lodge Restaurant Hours Friday & Saturday 5:30 p.m. 8:30 p.m. Call for Reservations (209) Board Meetings: Homeowners Association: Third Saturday, 9:00 a.m. Water Company: Second Saturday, 9:00 a.m. Office Phone: Fax: Recreation Phone: blsoffice@caltel.com Web Site: Your Association welcomes letters from members and will publish them in the Lodge Log on a space available basis. If necessary, they will be edited for style and shortened to 200 words. Letters will not be returned to senders. Formal policy is on file at the Association. Members should request the Formal Policy if they are considering publishing a member to member letter. Board of Directors: President, Bev Vasquez Vice President, Pete Padelford Treasurer, Kevin Andel Secretary, Mike McAtee Director, Doug Nunes Director, Linda Penney Director, Michele Stahlberg Administration General Manager, Tony Abila Assistant General Manager, Marsha Hampton Snowflake Lodge Snowflake Lodge Manager, Amber Sitter Snowflake Lodge Chef, Marc Kirby Facilities Facilities Manager, Mark Owens Summer Recreation Summer Recreation Director, Judith Anderson Assistant Summer Recreation Director, Vicky Bray-Johnson Security Security Officer, Vernon Nicholson The Lodge Log is published by the Blue Lake Springs Homeowners Association in accordance with the By-Laws of the Association. Publication is bi-monthly with additional issues from time to time. Manager: Tony Abila Production: Foothill Printing & Graphics 18 The Lodge Log