CAI-CV HOA Living July 2023

In high school, Mike was caught digging a pool behind the football field… by hand! Today he remodels pools! Was there ever any doubt?

Remodeling pools and Back yards since 1969 Qualit y work at a fair price

Lic #896061 C-53

NEW BUSINESS PARTNER MEMBERS

DISTINCTIVE RESTORATION

Mr. Jed Pannell (760) 989-4179 jedp@distinctiverestoration247.com

EVERFENCE

Mr. Andrew Kaufman (949) 438-8395 Andrew@EverFence.com

PRO ELECTIONS LLC

Ms. Abigail Padou (209) 559-1448 info@pro-ei.com

RENEWING BUSINESS PARTNER MEMBERS

CLINE AGENCY INSURANCE BROKERS

Mr. Timothy Cline (800) 966-9566 (Ext. 22) tim@clineagency.com

EPSTEN, APC

Ms. Jenniffer Serrano (800) 300-1707 jserrano@epsten.com

NEWMAN CERTIFIED PUBLIC ACCOUNTANT PC

Mr. Jeremy Newman (844) 566-1810 jeremy@hoacpa.com

PATIOSHOPPERS

COMMERCIAL POOL & PATIO FURNITURE

Mr. Todd Chism (951) 500-1803 todd@PatioShoppers.com

PAYNE PEST MANAGEMENT, INC.

Mr. Jason Payne (858) 277-2228 mpayne@paynepestmgmt.com

QUALITY STREET SERVICE

Sean McElvy (800 ) 979-3372 smcelvy@qualitystreetservice.com

S.B.S. LIEN SERVICES

Ms. Jennifer Kennick (818) 991-4600 (Ext. 211) jkennick@sbstrustdeed.com

RENEWING MANAGEMENT COMPANY MEMBERS

ALBERT MANAGEMENT CORPORATION

Ms. Lori Albert, CAMEx, CCAM CEO & President (760) 346-9000 lori@albertmgt.com

NEW MANAGER MEMBERS

ASSOCIA DESERT RESORT MANAGEMENT

Ms. Joanna Fierro (760) 346-1161 jfierro@drminternet.com

HOA ORGANIZERS, INC.

Mrs. Neda Nehouray, CMCA, AMS, PCAM (310) 866-3122 info@hoaorganizers.com

NEW AND RENEWING MEMBERS

RENEWING MANAGER MEMBERS

ALBERT MANAGEMENT CORPORATION

Ms. Patricia A. Forte, CMCA, AMS (760) 346-9778 trish.forte@albertmgt.com

ASSOCIA DESERT RESORT MANAGEMENT

Ms. Mallory Aranda (760) 346-1161 maranda@drminternet.com

Ms. Carol Calhoun (760) 346-1161 (103) ccalhoun@drminternet.com

Mrs. Sierra Lynn Carr, CMCA, AMS, PCAM (760) 391-0865 scarr@drminternet.com

Ms. Rosie Galla, CMCA, AMS, PCAM (760) 346-1161 rgalla@drminternet.com

Ms. Sandra Garland (760) 818-5355 sgarland@drminternet.com

Mr. Brandon James Surdock (657) 255-0328 bsurdock@drminternet.com

Mrs. Melisa Torres (760) 333-1341 melisa1029@gmail.com

Mr. Terry Dean Wolfgram (760) 346-1161 twolfgram@drminternet.com

AVAIL PROPERTY MANAGEMENT

Mr. Iyad Khoury (760) 771-9546 iyad@availhoa.com

BIGHORN HOMEOWNERS ASSOCIATION, INC.

Ms. Rosanna Cardenas, AMS (760) 859-5067 rcardenas@bighorngolf.com

DESERT FALLS MASTER ASSOCIATION

Mr. Scott Styve (760) 409-4173 sstyve@dfmaster.com

GRACE PROPERTY SERVICES, LLC

Ms. Susan Larson, PCAM (949) 426-1682 slarson@gracepropertyservicesllc.com

KEYSTONE

Ms. Christine M. Rodgers, CMCA, AMS (949) 430-5803 crodgers@keystonepacific.com

PERSONALIZED PROPERTY MANAGEMENT CO.

Mr. David Schuknecht, AMS, PCAM (760) 574-8179 david@ppminternet.com

PGA WEST RESIDENTIAL ASSOCIATION

Mr. Michael L. Walker, CMCA, AMS, PCAM (760) 771-1234 (13) mikew@pgawest.org

PROPERTY MANAGEMENT SERVICES

Ms. Vanessa R. Robertson, CMCA, AMS (760) 315-6779 vanessa@brcpms.com

THE GAFFNEY GROUP INC.

Ms. Bobbie Gaffney, AMS, PCAM (760) 327-0301 bobbie@thegaffneygroup.net

THE MANAGEMENT TRUST, DESERT REGION

Mrs. Cassie Gertz, CMCA, AMS, PCAM (760) 776-5100

Cassie.Gertz@Managementtrust.com

NEW HOMEOWNER LEADERS

DESERT BREEZES CASAS

Ms. Jennifer Ann Blair

Mr. Stanley Krause

FOUR SEASONS TERRA LAGO

Mr. Joseph C. Macera

MISSION LAKES COUNTRY CLUB

Mr. Steven Ekstrand

Ms. Jaime Escamilla

Mr. Sam Lancaster

Mr. Dennis Perry

Ms. Susan Rumsover

Mr. David Stanley

MOUNTAIN VIEW COUNTRY CLUB HOMEOWNERS' ASSOCIATION

Mr. Tim Breedlove

PALM DESERT VILLA PORTOFINO

Mr. John Allick

Ms. Debbie Triunfol

Ms. Jeri Wynn

POLO CLUB MAINTENANCE ASSOCIATION

Ms. Sandra Lorion

Mr. Luc R. Pelletier

RAMON ESTADOS HOMEOWNERS ASSOCIATION

Ms. Peggy Grosser

Mrs. Ashley Herrera

Mr. Sid Schwartz

Ms. Susan Uhrlass

SOL PALM SPRINGS HOMEOWNERS ASSOCIATION

Mr. Wade Harman

Mr. Michael Johnson

Mr. David Moring

Mr. David Thielens

Mr. Andrew Warren

VICTORIA FALLS HOMEOWNERS ASSOCIATION

Mr. Gerald (Gerry) DeSilva

Mr. William Diedrich

Ms. Jan Hobson

Mr. Phillip Kasparek

Ms. Dana Manciagli

Mr. Dan McCarthy

Ms. Sandra McCarthy

Robin Thomas

Mr. Don Urista

Mr. Tom Weil

RENEWING

HOMEOWNER LEADERS

BANNING ESTATES HOMEOWNERS ASSOCIATION

Mrs. Kathleen Dale

Mrs. Linda Ellis

Ms. Carole Knox

Ms. Kay Litras

Mr. Anthony Sterbling

Mrs. Maureen Wilson

DESERT BRAEMAR, INC.

Ms. Rose Baldwin

Mr. Frank Balthis

Ms. Patty Bastian

Ms. Kim Batutis

Mr. Gary Bongarzone

Mr. Jeff Bordalampe

Ms. Kellie Budlanksi

Mr. George Budlanski

Ms. Jonelle Dedrick

Mr. Jim Emery

Mr. Ed Flaherty

Mr. Gerald Fletcher

Ms. Janet Fletcher

Mr. Wade Garner

Mr. Carl Goretta

Ms. Pat Harper

Ms. Talia Hastie

Ms. Suzzie Hennessy

Mr. Tim Hennessy

Ms. Barbara Hopperstad

Mr. Craig Logan

Ms. Melissa Ludgren

Mr. Gary Manchester

Ms. Kim Martin

Mr. Tim Martin

Ms. Bonnie Muench

Mr. Jerry Poirier

Ms. Judy Poirier

Ms. Liz Seabrook

Mr. Phil Seabrook

Ms. Kathy Smith

Mr. Norm Smith

Mr. Doug Thompson

Mr. Robert Yates

DESERT BREEZES CASAS

Ms. Jennifer Ann Blair

Mr. William Caulfield

Mr. Frank Kelty

Mr. Stanley Krause

Mr. Paul O'Kane

MIRALON COMMUNITY CORPORATION

Ms. Brenda Aranda

Mr. Tim Day

Mr. Bruce Junger

Mr. Brad Shuckhart

Mrs. Annette Vivian

MISSION HILLS CASA DEL SOL HOMEOWNERS ASSOCIATION

Ms. Kathleen Logan

Mr. Donald Perry

Ms. Jana Ransom

Mr. August Riehl

MISSION LAKES COUNTRY CLUB

Mr. Jim Nelson

MONTECITO AT PALM DESERT HOMEOWNERS ASSOCIATION

Mr. John Contreras

Mr. Larry Davis

Mr. Gary Ewaska

Mrs. Patty Stutz

Mr. Bernie Weslow

MOUNTAIN VIEW COUNTRY CLUB HOMEOWNERS' ASSOCIATION

Ms. Janalee Arthur

Mr. Michael Bick

Ms. Laurie Duncan

Ms. Anne Farnham

Mr. Ed Keegan

Ms. Cheryl Krausfeldt

Ms. Andi Mallen

Ms. Phyllis Nollan

RAMON ESTADOS HOMEOWNERS ASSOCIATION

Mr. David E. Greig

Mr. Jim Poutre

SEVEN LAKES HOMEOWNERS ASSOCIATION, INC.

Mr. Silas Dreher

SHADOW MOUNTAIN FAIRWAY COTTAGES

Ms. Kathryn A Budny

Mr. Jason Cook

Mr. Brad Czarske

Mr. Keith Fisher

Mr. Bill Heimkes

Ms. Jean Masters

Ms. Camille Oordt

Mr. Dennis Panzer

Mr. David Sauve

VICTORIA FALLS HOMEOWNERS ASSOCIATION

Mr. Steven Friscia

Mr. Mike Piazza

Mr. Robert Palone

Mr. Jim Steinhoff

Ms. Roz Urlsta

MEAGHAN GAFFNEY-HOWE, CMCA, AMS CHAIR

The Gaffney Group, Inc.

RODNEY BISSELL, CO-CHAIR Bissell Design Studios, Inc.

ASHLEY LAYTON, PCAM, AMS, CMCA CO-CHAIR

Premier Community Association Management

JENNIFER JAMES, ESQ. BOARD LIAISON

HOA Legal Services

STEVEN SHUEY, PCAM

Personalized Property Management (Ret.)

CHRISTOPHER BAIR

Securitas Security Services

BRIAN BERCE

Golden Alliance Insurance

SIERRA CARR, CMCA, AMS, CCAM, PCAM Associa Desert Resort Management

GREG GRITTERS

Vintage Landscape

GLENN A. MILLER, CGCS

Southwest Landscape & Maintenance, LLC

JAMIE PRICER

Coachella Valley Water District

JASON SAVLOV, ESQ. Adams | Stirling, PLC

CHRIS SIGLER, B.S.C.E, CDT C.L. Sigler & Associates, Inc.

LORENA STERLING, CAFM

Community Association Financial Services

CREATIVE DIRECTOR & GRAPHIC DESIGNER

RODNEY BISSELL Bissell Design Studios, Inc. rodney@bisselldesign.com (714) 293-3749

ARTICLE SUBMISSIONS OR ADVERTISING INFORMATION

HOALiving@cai-cv.org

SUBSCRIBER SERVICES

The Coachella Valley HOA Living Magazine is a publication expressly prepared for association leaders, managers and related business professionals of the Community Associations Institute. Members are encouraged to submit articles for publishing consideration. All articles accepted for publication in HOA Living are subject to editing and rewriting by the HOA Living Committee.

CAI-CV

EDUCATED BUSINESS PARTNER

Choose Educated Business Partners

Julie R. Balbini, Esq., Fiore Racobs & Powers, A PLC

Micha Ballesteros, Cartwright Termite & Pest Control, Inc.

Roxi K. Bardwell, Advanced Reserve Solutions, Inc.

Rodney Bissell, Bissell Design Studios, Inc.

Kimberly Burnett, DSI Security Services

Gary Butler, Asphalt MD's

Linda Cardoza, Alliance Association Bank

Will Cartwright, Cartwright Termite & Pest Control, Inc.

Todd Chism, PatioShoppers

Angel Christina, Delphi Law Group, LLP

Lori Fahnestock, Powerful Pest Management

Dea Franck, Esq., Epsten, APC

Julie Frazier, Frazier Pest Control, Inc.

Elaine Gower, The Naumann Law Firm, PC

Michael Graves, SCT Reserve Consultants

Amanda Gray, Harvest Landscape, Inc.

Jennifer James, Esq., HOA Legal Services

Erin Kelly, Pacific Western Bank

Megan Kirkpatrick, Kirkpatrick Landscaping Services

Jared Knight, Vista Paint Corporation

Katy Krupp, Fenton Grant Mayfield Kaneda & Litt, LLP

Matt Lawton, CIC, CIRMS, Prendiville Insurance Agency

Larry Layton, Kirkpatrick Landscaping Services

Alison LeBoeuf, Sherwin-Williams

Mike Mastropietro, OCBS, Inc.

Chris Meyer, Asphalt MD's

Greg Morrow, Eagle Roofing Products

Fran Mullahy, Conserve LandCare

Bridget Nigh, BEHR Paints

Matt Ober, Esq., Richardson Ober DeNichilo LLP

Chet Oshiro, EmpireWorks

Mallory Paproth, SCT Reserve Consultants

Elisa Perez, Esq., Epsten, APC

Jay Powell, Ben's Asphalt

Dana Pride, Automation Pride

Mike Rey, Rey Insurance Services

Kelly Richardson, Esq., Richardson Ober DeNichilo LLP

Brent Sherman, Animal Pest Management Services, Inc.

Liz Williams, AMS Paving

Taylor Winkle, Roof Asset Management

Bevan Worsham, AMS Paving

Jolen Zeroski, CIT

PCAM

General Manager, Sun City Palm Desert

SECRETARY-ERIN KELLY

AVP, HOA Senior Manager Pacific Western Bank

TREASURER

BG (RET) GUIDO PORTANTE

Director, Mira Vista at Mission Hills HOA

DIRECTOR

MARK DODGE, CMCA, AMS

Branch President & CEO

Associa Desert Resort Management (DRM)

DIRECTOR

JENNIFER JAMES, ESQ.

Attorney, HOA Legal Services

DIRECTOR

BRUCE LATTA, CMCA

Manager, Indio Properties/President, Desert Cities HOA Council

DIRECTOR

MICHELLE LOPEZ, CMCA, AMS

Director of Community Management, Powerstone Property Mgmt.

DIRECTOR

BRIDGET NIGH

Regional Account Manager, BEHR Paint Company

DIRECTOR

LILY ORTEGA, CMCA Office Manager, Pro Landscape

DIRECTOR

JOLEN ZEROSKI, CMCA

VP, Community Association Banking CIT Bank

CONTACT US

CAI Coachella Valley

49950 Jefferson Street, Suite 130-117

Indio, CA 92201

(760) 341-0559 | www.cai-cv.org

CAL LOCKETT Executive Director clockett@cai-cv.org

The materials contained in this publication are designed to provide our members with timely and authoritative information; however, the CAI Coachella Valley Chapter is not engaging in the rendering of legal, accounting or other professional types of services. The Coachella Valley Chapter has not verified and/or endorsed the contents of these articles or advertising. Readers should not act on the information contained herein without seeking more specific professional advice from legal, accounting or other experts as required.

President’s Message

Julie Balbini, Esq. Managing Attorney, CV Office, Fiore Racobs & Powers, A PLC

Happy Independence Day to all our members! CAI-CV wishes you and your families a safe and enjoyable holiday. Summer is a time of planning for the Chapter. On June 1st, the CAI-CV leadership team, including the Chapter’s board, committee chairs and co-chairs, and delegates to the California Legislative Action Committee (CLAC), started work on a new five-year strategic plan. At the meeting, we combined the input from members (received via the Chapter’s annual strategic planning membership survey) with input from the leadership team and worked to identify the top needs of the Chapter’s three main membership classes, homeowner leaders, managers, and business partners. We also reviewed the Chapter’s mission. The purpose of the annual strategic process is to ensure we are achieving our goals and objectives, and that all our committees and programs are aligned with our mission of meeting our members' needs while elevating the HOA industry in the Coachella Valley. The process will continue through the end of this month, with the board taking action on any required changes at the July board meeting. After reviewing the twelve-page summary, I can tell you that the Chapter is heading in the right direction. The focus this month will be to incorporate many new innovative ideas into our programs and events for the fall and for 2024. Thank you again to all of you who provided input into this important process. See page 14 for photos.

JULY EVENTS & PROGRAMS

On Tuesday, July 11th, the Education Committee, and the Desert City HOA Council, have planned an important Board Member Workshop (BMW) on developing and implementing maintenance programs, with guest speaker Tad Black, President of CM Squared, Inc. CM Squared provides professional architectural design and construction management services to HOAs. Homeowner leaders and managers are invited to attend this free workshop. See page 44 for registration information.

On Friday, July 14th, CAI-CV will host its Annual Bowling Tournament, Cosmic Bowling, at Palm Springs Lanes. All members are invited to attend as spectators, and if you are interested in bowling, email Stacy at CAI-CV (stacy. atherton@cai-cv.org) to see if there are any openings. Wear your best glow-in-the-dark attire! See page 16 for more information.

On Friday, July 28th, the Professional Managers Committee and Education Committee will be joining to host CAI-CV’s Annual Community Association Manager (CAM) Day, from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. at Sun City Palm Desert. Managers and assistant managers are invited to attend this full day of classes focused on increasing your management skills and boosting your career potential. Managers will earn seven CEUs for attending. See page 35 for more information.

JUNE THANK YOUS

Please join me in thanking the Education Committee for a very interesting Board Member Workshop/Desert Cities HOA Council (BMW/DCHC) program on June 6th about controlling utility budgets. Our thanks to guest speakers Deborah McGarrey (SoCalGas), Jeff Monfort (Southern California Edison), and Education Committee Co-Chair Stephen Shuey, PCAM (CAI National Faculty).

Thanks to the Professional Managers Committee for hosting their second annual Comedy Night, at Sun City Palm Desert, on June 9th to raise funds for CAI-CV’s Carol Fulton Scholarship Fund. The night was a huge success with just under 100 attending, and the comedy was exactly what I needed after a long work week.

The Programs Committee had another outstanding Educational Program & Mini Trade Show on the morning of June 16th entitled “Litigation Horror Stories.” Thanks to our fantastic guest speakers, Sandra Gottlieb, Esq., CCAL (SwedelsonGottlieb) and Kumar Raja, Esq. (Beaumont Tashjian).

I hope to see you in July! CAI-CV strives to be a supportive community of more than 1,500 members (membership keeps growing) and affiliates. Our volunteers are here to help you with best-practice education, networking, and to give you the tools you’ll need to elevate your work in support of Coachella Valley HOAs!

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Sun City Shadow Hills Community Association

By Ashley Layton, CMCA, AMS, PCAM

Sun City Shadow Hills Community Association (SCSH) is a premier gated adult community located in the Coachella Valley in the city of Indio, California. They are part of the greater Palm Springs Resort Area, where shopping, dining, entertainment, and cultural venues abound.

Sun City Shadow Hills is near the Indio festivals, and adjacent to Palm Desert and premier shopping on El Paseo (The “Rodeo Drive” of the Desert).

SCSH residents enjoy extensive amenities for an active lifestyle in an upscale 55+ community, including golf, tennis, pickleball, bocce ball, fitness centers, several pools, a library, Shadows Restaurant, and more.

SCSH provides a country-club lifestyle, with a wide variety of social clubs that include arts and crafts, performing arts, book clubs, a wine club, and more. They have nearly 50 clubs and four special interest groups, all started by and administered by residents. The association has expanded their educational program to include Spanish and healthy cooking classes.

The lifestyle at Sun City Shadow Hills extends to their non-human friends as well. Dog lovers enjoy taking their four-legged furry friends to two lovely dog parks offered in this pet-friendly community.

Sun City Shadow Hills offers an 18-hole golf course designed by Lee Schmidt and Brian Curley, and a challenging par 3 course, with water features and mountain vistas, that are celebrated for their grace and beauty. These courses add to the serene tranquility of the community and are enjoyed by both golfers and non-golfers alike.

Association General Manager, Cari Burleigh, says, “Sun City Shadow Hills is a great community as it provides residents with a lifestyle that includes a wide variety of amenities along with the opportunity to participate in over 50 clubs. To build community, residents are also invited to attend events coordinated by our awesome Lifestyle Department. These events include concerts, trips and comedy shows, just to name a few. We are also lucky to have a large group of volunteers who give their time to make our community an exceptional place to live.”

The community has 3,450 single family homes spanning 1,083 acres. The association, built by Pule Group in 2006, with its Spanish colonial architecture, boasts 36 different models that range in price from the $400,000s to the $800,000’s. Monthly assessments are $337 and include 24/7 security (manned gates and patrol), Frontier internet, and common area landscaping.

Jerry Conrad, SCSH Board President told us, “Residents at Sun City Shadow Hills generally seem to want three things from our association. One, they want to drive into our community and see the terrific landscape that says they've arrived home. Two, many say that a gated community allows them to take a breath and feel secure. And third, they appreciate the overall value of high-class amenities and relatively low assessments.”

The board is comprised of five members, who are supported by three standing committees and twelve advisory committees. The association works with numerous CAI-CV business partners including: Tinnelly Law Group, Vintage Landscape, Allied Universal, Frontier, Pacific Western Bank, and Prendiville Insurance Agency.

Sun City Shadow Hills Community Association is managed by Cari Burleigh, AMS, CCAM.LS.AA, with Associa Desert Resort Management. Cari can be reached at 760-345-4949, ext. 2102, or via email at CBurleigh@drminternet.com, or via the association’s website at www.scshca.com.

Ashley Layton,CMCA, AMS, PCAM is Vice President of Premier Community Association Management. She can be reached at 760 345 2449 or email her at ALayton@brcpcam.com.

CAI-CV Strategic Planning Session

June 1, 2023

CAI-CV conducted its annual strategic planning session on June 1st at the RAP Foundation Conference Center. The Chapter’s leadership team, including the Chapter’s board, committee chairs and co-chairs, and delegates to the California Legislative Action Committee (CLAC), gathered to review the last few years of Chapter accomplishments and forge a new five-year plan. The team also looked at short-term changes that are needed to help the Chapter thrive. A 12-page summary was developed to incorporate member input from the Chapter’s annual strategic planning membership survey. All the combined input will be reviewed by the Strategic Planning Committee and board in July. An update for members will be published in HOA Living in September. Thanks to all of our members who participated in the strategic planning process!

CAI National is offering HOA board members a nationally recognized CERTIFICATE! CAI-CV will offer this five-hour program to Coachella Valley HOA board members.

MOST

PAY FOR THEIR MEMBERS TO ATTEND. IT’S

THE QR CODE: For assistance call CAI-CV at (760) 341-0559.

SHARE YOUR CMCA EXPERIENCE ON SOCIAL MEDIA!

The CMCA journey is unique and can inspire others in our community. If you have a CMCA, we encourage you to share your experience on social media. Here are a few examples:

"As a #CMCA , I've experienced firsthand the career advancement opportunities and the professional respect that this certification offers. I'm proud to be part of this esteemed community. #professionaldevelopment"

"The #CMCA certification isn't just a credential, it's a commitment to excellence and ethical standards in #communityassociation management. I'm ready for another year of upholding these values. #professionaldevelopment "

"Being a #CMCA means being recognized as a specialist in community association management. Excited to continue my journey with the upcoming recertification. #professionaldevelopment "

If you have questions concerning your CMCA, please contact CAMICB at info@camicb.org.

Thank You to Our Sponsors

ALLIED UNIVERSAL SECURITY SERVICES

AMS PAVING, INC.

ASPHALT MD’S

ASSOCIA DESERT RESORT MANAGEMENT

DUNN-EDWARDS CORPORATION

EMPIREWORKS RECONSTRUCTION AND PAINTING

STRIKE SPONSOR

LANE SPONSOR

LANE SPONSOR X2

LANE SPONSOR

BAR SPONSOR

LANE SPONSOR

EPSTEN, APC STRIKE SPONSOR

FIORE RACOBS & POWERS, A PLC

FIRSTSERVICE RESIDENTIAL

FLOOD RESPONSE

FRAZIER PEST CONTROL, INC.

IVAN’S PAINTING & MAINTENANCE

LABARRE/OKSNEE

INSURANCE AGENCY, INC.

SCT RESERVE CONSULTANTS, INC.

SECURITAS SECURITY SERVICES, USA, INC.

SHERWIN-WILLIAMS PAINT COMPANY

SUN KING ELECTRIC, INC.

SUNSHINE LANDSCAPE

THE MANAGEMENT TRUST

VANTAGE POINT CONSTRUCTION, INC.

VINTAGE LANDSCAPE

VISTA PAINT CORPORATION

WESTERN PACIFIC ROOFING

LANE SPONSOR

LANE ASSIGNMENT SPONSOR

LANE SPONSOR X2

LANE SPONSOR X2

LANE SPONSOR

LANE ASSIGNMENT SPONSOR

LANE SPONSOR

STRIKE SPONSOR

GRAND PRIZE SPONSOR

LANE SPONSOR

LANE SPONSOR

LANE SPONSOR

LANE SPONSOR X2

LANE SPONSOR

DESSERT SPONSOR

LANE SPONSOR

Golf Continues to Drive the Economy of the Coachella Valley

By Craig Kessler

When Sonny Bono was Mayor of Palm Springs, he often repeated that without golf there would be no Palm Springs. Never mind that among the Coachella Valley’s cities Palm Springs has always been the site of the fewest golf courses. Bono’s point was that the Coachella Valley became the wintertime destination that it is now known for due almost entirely to golf.

In the years since Bono's untimely death, the Valley has become a popular year-round destination, drawing more than just snowbirds and retirees. This has raised concerns about whether full-time residents with families, and in many cases, jobs are still attracted to the desert due to the golf courses as were previous emigres, which are a major part of the HOAs in the area.

First, while the population of the Valley has continued to grow, its stock of golf courses has not. There are nine

fewer golf courses in the Coachella Valley than there were in 2010. Despite this, the game of golf is now more popular in 2023 than at any other time in American history. While many clubs have waiting lists, there is still a high demand for the sport. Day-tripping from the coastal counties is at an all-time high and there are few if any golf course constructions on the drawing boards. Supply is not keeping up with demand. It’s very much a seller’s market, and that bodes well for golf centric HOA’s and the property values of those who live in them, whether they play golf or not.

Second, because of the unique demographics of the Coachella Valley, golf has always been stronger in the Valley than anywhere else in the nation. While the national golf economy suffered decline from 2005 through 2016, flattening into a small but still perceptible increase from 2016 through the beginning of 2020, the Coachella Valley golf economy declined

"...Coachella Valley hosts the greatest concentration of golf courses in the nation – a golf hole to golfer ratio richer than any other in the United States..."

only 3.9% between 2005 and 2016. This result certainly seems counterintuitive, given the fact that the Coachella Valley hosts the greatest concentration of golf courses in the nation – a golf hole to golfer ratio richer than any other in the United States, albeit less “rich” than 2010.

This may be counterintuitive to the casual observer but not the least bit surprising to those who understand the golf industry. The truth that those in the business understand is that golf’s fortunes were higher among two key demographics that practically described the pre-Covid desert golf market –people between the ages of 55-74 and the affluent. While golf suffered among those under a certain age during golf’s national lean years 2005-2016, the hard fact is that there were more golfers in the 55-74 age bracket in 2016 than there were in 2005 – considerably more according to most studies. And while golf also suffered among those in the middle quintiles of the income population during those years, it continued to grow steadily among those in the top 20 percent. With more year-round residents the Coachella Valley may be home to a smaller percentage of the 55–74-year-old crowd with their greater wealth, but it

will remain home to a substantial percentage thereof for a long time to come.

Third, the Covid epidemic settled the question of whether the desert golf economy could survive on locals and day-trippers from California’s coastal counties: Could an economy dependent upon 120 golf courses remain viable if the snowbirds who filled their tee sheets and membership rolls were unable to relocate to the desert from their northern homes in the winter?

The answer to that question was a resounding yes! Just as the coastal golf communities enjoyed spectacular success (30% increases in play), so did the Coachella Valley golf community. Clubs worried about the loss of out-oftown members suffered no such losses; indeed, many Valley courses reported increased interest in memberships. Resort courses worried about filling their tee sheets found that when the snowbirds didn’t come, their loss was

more than made up by golfers from Southern California’s population-rich coastal counties who suddenly found it difficult to secure tee times at their favorite daily fee and municipal golf courses. Local golf shops reported record sales, not to mention months long waiting lists for light weight pull carts.

The upshot: Taken together these three things (seller’s market, demographics, and the Covid experiment) should allay doubts about golf’s continuing capacity to drive the economy of the Coachella Valley and with it the well-being of its many HOA’s.

Craig Kessler, is the Director of Public Affairs for the Southern California Golf Association. He can be reached at (310) 941-4803 or by email at CKessler@scga.org.

"Resort courses worried about filling their tee sheets found that when the snowbirds didn’t come, their loss was more than made up by golfers from Southern California’s population-rich coastal counties who suddenly found it difficult to secure tee times at their favorite daily fee and municipal golf courses."

Good Record Keeping Helps Preserve Legal Rights Relative to Construction Defects

By Aaron Zimmerman, Esq.

Those involved in the world of HOAs know the importance of good record keeping cannot be overstated. Accurate budget updates, ensuring compliance with architectural applications and prosecuting or defending a claim in litigation are just a few of the many potential scenarios where an HOA’s success will depend, in large part, upon its effective stewardship of important records and the information contained therein.

When it comes to construction defects, there is often a mistaken assumption that property owners in California always have 10 years from the completion of construction to bring a “CD” claim. While that timeframe applies in some scenarios, in many others it does not. Legal liability associated with construction defects at most new residential projects in the State of California is contemplated in the legislative mandates of “SB 800” aka the “Builder’s Right to Repair Act” and memorialized, for the most part, in Civil Code sections 895-897; 910-945. Pursuant to SB 800, applicable statutes of limitation and repose are anywhere from 1-10 years, depending upon the assemblies and components that are implicated. Fortunately, most of the more significant potential construction defects are subject to the outside 10-year time limits.

At older communities where SB 800 does not apply, legal issues related to construction defects can still be of significant concern. It is well known in our industry that older developments may require significant upgrades, repairs

and improvements in instances where original portions of buildings and infrastructure are beyond their useful life. These projects can easily stretch into seven figure territory and the costlier and more comprehensive the work, the more important that it be completed in a defect-free manner. Outside the context of SB 800, there are multiple legal authorities applicable to liability associated with construction defects, however, like with portions of SB 800, the legislature has created an outside statute of repose of 10 years for bringing a claim for defective work related to the installation of improvements at real property projects. The parties contracting for that work (HOA and contractors) also have the ability to negotiate an increase or decrease to that term.

However, for policy reasons, and

regardless of any mutual agreement in a contract, the law also requires an aggrieved HOA to “mitigate its damages.” This means that if there is constructive notice of a defect, the HOA would need to act within a certain amount of time, regardless of the stated claim period. Specifically, causes of action for negligence and breach of contract must be brought within 2-4 years, from the date of “constructive notice.” Additionally, that “constructive notice,” which can serve to significantly reduce the claims period, only requires that the HOA “should have” known there was defect. Actual knowledge is absolutely not necessary.

So, as an example, let’s say that an HOA recently replaced its old roofs and obtained a 20-year performance warranty from the contractor. However, just

one year after the re-roof was completed, there have been some leaks throughout the community. In that scenario, the HOA would be expected to investigate the cause of the leak and make necessary repairs. Imagine that the roofing contractor that performed the work is unresponsive to service calls made by the HOA, so a different vendor is called in to diagnose and repair the problem, which is believed to be relatively limited and costs the Association only a modest amount to repair (or so they think).

prior roof repair invoices, related emails communicating the existence of what were thought to be minor leaks, minutes noting the issue and any other related and non-privileged materials. While the HOA will argue that the Board did not know of the severity of the problem, the defense will undoubtedly claim that the HOA had “constructive notice” (i.e., it should have known) and may be able to avoid any liability related to its defective work. In the above hypothetical, the HOA potentially loses its ability to

Given that the leaks did not result in significant repair costs, the Board decides it is not worth pursuing reimbursement from the installer, despite the roof still being under warranty and does not facilitate a larger inspection to determine how prevalent this issue is. The related repair invoices will, of course, become part of Association records and the issue may also be noted in the minutes. Then, imagine that there is director and/or management turnover and important stakeholders with personal knowledge of the roofing project cycle out of the HOA decision-making arena. Those who replace them may not be aware of the warranty issue and might not be particularly concerned with annual roof repairs that only cost the HOA a relatively small amount. However, 3 years later, after more leaks occur, a comprehensive investigation is initiated that reveals significant and widespread defects and damage to the roofing and related assemblies. The Board was previously unaware of the significance of the problem, and, facing a costly repair, the HOA is forced to file suit against the roofing contractor.

In that scenario, the roofing contractor that performed the faulty work will be entitled to receive copies of the

effectively prosecute negligence causes of action at the 2-year and 3-year marks after the first leak was first reported and could lose all its legal leverage at the 4-year mark, even though there is supposed to be 15 years left on the warranty.

The above example is intentionally sensational in nature; however, the takeaway is that where there is an indication of a potential problem that is reflected in Association records, directors should treat it as the liability that it is and seek to “close the loop” on the issue. In the above scenario, that means facilitating some type of reasonable, but more comprehensive, investigation to determine if the defective conditions existed elsewhere. If the defective condition was determined to be widespread, then the Board would know it needed to take the appropriate legal action.

Alternatively, if, after reasonable investigation, the defective condition appeared to be discrete in nature, then the Board should, with the help of its professional consultants and service providers, have that reality memorialized in the most beneficial and exculpatory manner possible and should include those materials in Association records. In that scenario, the Board has complied with its related due diligence requirements and has “closed the loop” on the specific problematic issue, thereby undermining a future “constructive notice” defense argument and hopefully preventing the shortening of the applicable claims window. Of course, the same sentiment of “cleaning up” bad HOA records has application in many scenarios beyond the construction defect context and those charged with creating and maintaining such records are encouraged to be mindful of having good record “hygiene.”

Aaron Zimmerman, Esq. is a Partner in the Construction Defect Department at Berding | Weil, LLP and may be reached at azimmerman@berdingweil.com or (800) 838-2090. Berding | Weil, LLP is the largest and most experienced Construction Defect and Commercial and Residential Property Ownerfocused law firm in the State of California, employing 40 attorneys across 3 offices throughout the State. In its 30+ years of practice, the firm has recovered in excess of $1.7 billion for its clients and has earned its sterling reputation through the provision of outstanding legal service.

"...the Board should, with the help of its professional consultants and service providers, have that reality memorialized in the most beneficial and exculpatory manner possible..."

"While the HOA will argue that the Board did not know of the severity of the problem, the defense will undoubtedly claim that the HOA had “constructive notice” (i.e., it should have known) and may be able to avoid any liability related to its defective work."

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Prioritizing Mental Health

By Leslie Alvarez, CMCA, AMS, LSM, PCAM

The world is in crisis, and these past two years have been indescribably stressf ul for everyone. Two years of a pandemic, lack of socialization, mask-wearing, and general fear and anxiety have only increased the slow erosion of kindness and empathy we have seen devolve over the past few years.

In our business, verbal and written abuse have reached new, unacceptable levels, and basic respect and common courtesy are no longer so common. We are told not to take the job personally, but it is personal. It's our livelihood. It's our reputation. It's our name. It is very hard to not take insults and rudeness personally. Our health takes a toll.

I recently lost 20 pounds in less than six months due to the stress of a position, and I have seen and experienced other managers suffering stress-induced health issues. I believe it's time for some important behavioral changes in the industry.

We need a significant focus and shift to ensure community managers are treated with respect and courtesy.

It all starts with setting reasonable boundaries for your mental and physical health. If more of us do that, we can start a movement and create real industry change for the next generation of community managers.

Here are a few boundaries to establish to maintain a healthy work-life balance.

Establish an appointment-only policy. Many times, residents will stop in the office and demand to see the manager. They wouldn't do this to their cardiologist or attorney. Yet, with us, they have no hesitation. Establish the fact that you are a professional and

HOW HAS THE PANDEMIC IMPACTED MENTAL HEALTH?

From the 2020 Isolation to the 2021 reentry into society to 2022's uncertainty as new and highly contagious strains of the virus develop and infect greater numbers of our families, friends, acquaintances, and co-workers, the COVID-19 pandemic has had a dramatic impact on mental health.

According to a study from Boston University, depressive symptoms in adults Jumped from 8.5% pre-pandemic to 27.8% in 2020 to 32.8% in 2021. According to the study, the elevated rate of depression now affects 1 in every 3 U.S. adults.

"The COVID-19 pandemic has been associated with a substantial increase in mental illness. U.S. adults reported an estimated threefold increase in the prevalence of elevated depressive symptoms at the start of the COVID-19 pandemic relative to before it. Since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, a number of studies have reported worsening mental health across a range of populations in the U.S. and globally, the study says.

require appointments. If your board opposes this concept, you can offer a schedule of "open-door" hours where walk-in traffic can access you freely.

Establish a weekly update meeting. Oftentimes, we spend hours meeting with every director. They pop into the office for just a couple questions, and our morning is blown. This repeats itself with each director. The bigger the board, the more our week can get blown away bit by bit. However, we can take control by scheduling a recurring weekly meeting with board members to give updates on pending projects and priorities for the week. This is not considered an official meeting. Ideal participants are the president and the treasurer.

MANAGING MENTAL HEALTH IN YOUR COMMUNITY

How should board members and managers confront mental illness issues with residents? Take action to avoid liability while honoring the association's obligations.

Understand the community's role and analyze your options. Turn to "Minding Mental Illness" in Common Ground Sept/Oct 2022.

Schedule as many board meetings and committee meetings as possible during business hours This may be a challenge for board members who have full-time jobs. However, when you serve on the board for a professional nonprofit organization like the United Way or Red Cross, your meetings are not at 7 p.m., and certainly are not on the weekends.

When you leave the office, leave the office. Establish the understanding with your boards that while you are available for an emergency, you are not available for everything that strikes their fancy to talk to you about after hours. If you respond to a non-emergency email after hours, you are effectively training your board to believe you will respond, and they will have an expectation as such.

Manage your email. An organized email inbox is imperative to your success. In today's technological age,

WHAT IS MENTAL HEALTH?

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, "Mental health includes our emotional, psychological, and social well-being. It affects how we think, feel, and act. It also helps determine how we handle stress, relate to others, and make healthy choices. Although... the terms are often used interchangeably, poor mental health and mental illness are not the same. A person can experience the former and not be diagnosed with the latter. Likewise, a person diagnosed with a mental illness can experience periods of physical, mental, and social well-being."

some things can be a quick phone call, text, or Microsoft Teams message. This helps to avoid bogging down everyone's emails for a quick conversation and avoids frustration and unnecessary delays when waiting for a response on something relatively easy.

Manage your time effectively. Time block for big projects. Blocking time out to accomplish projects allows you to be focused on the actual task and project without feeling the need to multitask.

Prioritize your personal events. Make sure your personal schedule is a priority and is on your professional calendar. This way you won't double book yourself and miss important personal events.

Let's not just talk about change, let's go make it happen.

Leslie Alvarez is the regional director of Castle Group in West Palm Beach, FL. Leslie can be reached at lesliealvarez@castlegroup.com

Reprinted from the September/October issue of CAI’s Community Manager Newsletter.

HOW DOES AN ASSOCIATION'S OBLIGATIONS INTERSECT WITH MENTAL HEALTH?

Consider that more than 74.1 million Americans live in homeowners associations, condominium communities, cooperatives, and other planned communities. It follows that a great percentage of the residents living in communities are currently suffering with either a mental illness or mental health issue. Community association board members, managers, and business partners aren't immune either. Community associations are designed to maintain the property's common areas, preserve and protect property values, provide services for members, and develop a sense of community. Interestingly, one can see how mental health issues could affect each of these responsibilities. An association's obligation and advancing the above purposes is to uniformly enforce its governing documents and act in good faith and in what the board reasonably believes to be in the best interest of the community.

WHERE CAN I FIND HELP?

The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration National Helpline, 1-800-662-HELP (4357) (also known as the Treatment Referral Routing Service) is a confidential, free, 24-hours-a-day, 365-days-ayear information service in English and Spanish for individuals and family members facing mental or substance use disorders. This service provides referrals to local treatment facilities, support groups, and community-based organizations. If you or someone you know needs immediate support, call or text 988 or chat 988Lifeline.org.

STAYING SAFE WHILE SHOPPING:

Top 10 Tips for Self-Protection

By Christopher Bair

In an increasingly unpredictable world, it's essential to prioritize personal safety when venturing out in public. Whether you're running errands, shopping, or simply going about your daily routine, being aware and proactive can significantly reduce the risk of encountering dangerous situations. In this article, we will explore the top 10 things you should be aware of to remain safe while shopping in public, ranging from parking lot safety to being vigilant of suspicious individuals. Additionally, we'll cover what to do if approached by a stranger and the importance of contacting local law enforcement.

1 PARKING LOT DRIVING SAFETY:

Before you even step foot outside your vehicle, it's crucial to exercise caution in parking lots. Drive slowly, be mindful of pedestrians, and obey all traffic rules. Use designated lanes and watch for other drivers' potentially irrational behavior to avoid accidents.

2 BE AWARE OF THE PARKING LOT SURROUNDINGS:

Maintaining situational awareness is paramount to your safety. Stay off your phone, turn off your music and stay alert. Scan your surroundings BEFORE getting out of your car, noting any potential risks or suspicious activities. If something (or someone) doesn’t look right, move to the other side of the parking lot, or leave and come back later.

3 TRAVEL WITH A COMPANION:

Whenever possible, travel with a friend or family member. There's safety in numbers and having someone by your side can deter potential threats. If you must go alone, inform a trusted person of your plans, where you’re going, and estimated return time.

4 NIGHTTIME PARKING LOT SAFETY:

When parking in dimly lit or secluded areas at night, prioritize safety. Park under well-lit areas and near entrances or security cameras if possible. Avoid isolated spots where criminals could take advantage of the darkness. The latest threat is catalytic converter theft. Don’t make their job any easier by parking in dark and remote areas.

5 PROTECTING YOUR PURSE, WALLET, AND CELL PHONE:

To safeguard your personal belongings, always keep your purse close to your body and your wallet and cell phone in a secure place, preferably your front pocket. Many younger people like to store their cell phone sticking out of their back pocket. This is an invitation for someone to try and steal it from you. Avoid displaying expensive jewelry or carrying large amounts of cash. Be careful at the checkout stand to not show a lot of cash in your purse or wallet.

6

AVOID LEAVING ANY ITEMS IN YOUR CAR:

Leaving valuable items visible in your car can AND WILL attract thieves. Hide shopping bags, laptops, and other valuables out of sight in the trunk or under seats. If a thief looks in your car and sees nothing, chances are they will look for another car to break into. Always lock your vehicle and activate the alarm system.

7

SAFETY WHILE SHOPPING IN STORES:

While browsing in stores, be cautious of your surroundings. Keep your purse zipped and close to your body. Don't leave your belongings unattended in a shopping cart, even for a moment. If you see suspicious behavior, contact the store manager immediately.

8

APPROACHED BY A STRANGER:

If approached by someone you don't know, trust your instincts. Maintain a safe distance and be assertive yet polite. Avoid revealing personal information or engaging in conversations that make you uncomfortable. If necessary, excuse yourself (for any reason) and seek help from the store manager or security officer.

9 CONTACT LOCAL LAW ENFORCEMENT:

In any suspicious or potentially dangerous situation, contacting local law enforcement is crucial. If you are a victim of, feel threatened, or witness a crime, dial 911 emergency services immediately. Provide clear and concise information about the incident, your location, and any descriptions of the individuals involved.

10

TRUST YOUR INTUITION:

Lastly, and most importantly, trust your instincts. If something doesn’t ‘feel right’ or makes you uneasy, it's better to err on the side of caution. Many times, your intuition will pick up on subtle cues that may indicate threats or danger. Prioritize your safety and take appropriate, responsible action.

In today's world, personal safety should be your top priority when out in public. By following these “Top 10 Tips” - from being vigilant in parking lots and staying aware of your surroundings to traveling with companions and contacting law enforcement when necessary…you can significantly reduce the risk of becoming a victim. Remember, safety starts with you, and a proactive approach is the best defense against potential threats. Be alert, always prepared, and please stay safe.

Christopher Bair is the Business Development Manager at Securitas Security Services in Palm Desert. He can be reached at: (760) 779-0728 or by email at Christopher.Bair@Securitasinc.com.

Congratulations to Frazier Pest Control for being honored as the West Valley Small Business of the Year by The Greater Coachella Valley Chamber of Commerce (GCVCC) at their annual business awards ceremony in June! Congratulations also to Stacey Baker from Associa Desert Resort Management for earning CAI’s Certified Manager of Community Associations (CMCA) designation in May.

Congratulations to Jennifer James, Esq. for winning the 2023 Bird Award (The most coveted award in the known universe) from the Desert Bar Association!

Best wishes and congratulations to Leena Danpour, Esq., associate attorney with SwedelsonGottlieb, who is getting married on July 2, 2023, to Elliott Gurnick! Leena is Co-Chair of CAI-CV’s CLAC LSC Committee (See Leena’s article on page 40).

Why You Should Buy a Reusable Water Bottle

By Coachella Valley Water District (CVWD)

Living in the desert, a reusable water bottle is a must-have. With prolonged triple-digit temperature days, hydration is vital to our lives. The advice to “drink 8 glasses of water a day” doesn’t always hold. You often need more.

The Mayo Clinic says to prevent dehydration you should drink a glass of water:

• With each meal and between meals

• Before, during and after exercise

• If you feel thirsty

Reusable water bottles are a convenient and easy way to stay hydrated. So are plastic bottles you grab off the shelf at a grocery store, you might think. Here are reasons to consider changing that purchasing habit.

1. Reusable water bottles are an eco-friendly alternative to singleuse plastic water bottles, which are a major contributor to plastic waste and often end up in landfills. (Approximately 91% of plastic is not recycled, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.)

Americans buy 50 billion water bottles per year, according to Earthday.org. By using a reusable water bottle, you could save an average of 156 plastic bottles annually.

2. Reusable bottles save money. Tap water is 3,000% less expensive per gallon. Tap water averages $0.02 per gallon while bottled water averages $0.64 per gallon, a 2022 Harvard study found.

3. Bottled water is no better than tap water provided by Coachella Valley Water District. (Most bottled water comes from municipal taps.) CVWD’s customers enjoy groundwater pumped from the aquifer that is nearly pristine and requires no or minimal treatment to meet state and federal water quality standards.

Throughout most of the Coachella Valley, only a small amount of chlorine is added as a precautionary measure to ensure compliance with drinking water regulations.

In addition, CVWD staff annually collects more than 18,000 water samples. Most samples are tested every day at the District’s state-certified water quality laboratory.

Go here to learn more about CVWD’s drinking water.

COMMUNITIES REPORT CHALLENGES WITH RISING INSURANCE PREMIUMS

Insurance premiums have been skyrocketing across the country in recent years, causing many community associations to face significant challenges in obtaining affordable insurance coverage.

More than 90% of respondents in a recent survey conducted by the Foundation for Community Association Research reported that their property and casualty insurance premium had increased at the last or current renewal with 24% citing an increase between $101 and $500, and 14% citing a larger increase.

The Foundation collected nearly 900 responses from community association leaders— board members, managers, management company executives, and insurance and risk management professionals—representing at least 10,000 community associations.

We Have our SB 326 Report – What Now?

Understanding the Association’s Obligations Upon Completion of the SB 326 Inspection Report

By Chris Sigler, B.S.C.E., C.D.T.

If your association has already complied with the SB 326 requirements, you should be pleased. Many associations are just now starting the process. As we come into the final year and a half of the law’s timeline for compliance, inspection companies of various types and levels of experience are actively soliciting this mandated work. For associations, this requires an important and vital level of due diligence to choose the right company that will come to reasonable, practical conclusions and make recommendations that are feasible for the association to achieve. Since this is a safety law, it is important to do what is best for the entire association. As the saying goes, “Safety Pays!”

If your association has complied and has received your SB 326 Report, you may have been informed about your obligations, the action items your association needs to take. Associations need to keep in mind that the ONLY mandatory work that is required would be for any IMMEDIATE safety hazards.

IMPORTANT: The report will provide general recommendations such as “replace waterproofing system of the balcony” or “replace balcony” and the like. These types of recommendations are very broad in nature and the reports are not intended to be specific with regards to scope and methodology. Thus, an SB 326 stamped report should NOT be handed to a repair contractor for bidding the “recommended repairs” stated in the report! Always develop a clearly written scope of work, seeking the advice of licensed professionals, before going out to bid.

WHAT IF WE HAVE INTERNAL DISAGREEMENT WITH THE RESULTS AND RECOMMENDATIONS CONTAINED WITHIN THE REPORT?

A SIMPLE LIST OF YOUR OBLIGATIONS ONCE YOU RECEIVE YOUR SB 326 REPORT

1. The report is not required to be submitted to your city’s Building Department or any other agency, unless an immediate safety hazard or hazards was/were identified. Even in that case this can be avoided if, before the report is generated, the hazard is made safe – thus removing the “immediate” hazard.

2. The report is only required to be kept on file with the association’s records and shared with your Reserve Analyst.

3. If the report has recommendations for repair or reports some conditions that are not in compliance with current code but are not an immediate safety hazard (e.g., railing height, picket spacing, etc.), a plan for eventual correction should be formulated within a feasible time. This can and should be discussed by the board and with your Reserve Analyst.

4. Aside from immediate safety issues, nothing else is “triggered” by the report.

At the start of the process, you hired an expert, and the report should include the expert’s stamp, either a Structural Engineer or Architect, as required by the law. Your first and most practical first step would be to contact the report author and query him or her about the results and recommendations. If this does not satisfy your concerns about the contents of the report, you may have other options.

In essence, the submitted report will be part of the HOA’s records until the next cycle of inspections nine years

from now. If – worst case scenario – an accident occurs at an elevated structure that was recommended for repair in some form and the association has not followed the recommendations of the report, the liability could fall upon the association.

If the board is of the opinion that the recommendations are “heavy handed,” the board can obtain a second opinion from another expert. Although this would cost the association additional money, it could be cost-efficient to do so. If the second opinion corroborates the report, then the board has done its due diligence to check and confirm what they were uncomfortable about in the original report. However, the second opinion could show that the need for repairs is different and may allow a more reasonable timeline to plan for repairs.

A COMMON AND SIMPLE EXAMPLE

THE

1. Hire a consultant familiar with SB 326 repairs who will consider the safety of the residents and who will maintain a practical approach to the report. Also, hiring a consultant that does not perform repairs is often a best practice approach.

2. Just as you might get a second opinion before a major medical procedure, the same holds true if you have unresolved concerns with the first report generated. Remember that the report will live in the association and Reserve Analysts’ records until the next inspection cycle nine years from now.

If you perform the important due diligence to ensure an accurate report, you will serve the best interests of your residents in a way that cannot be questioned and will keep them safe!

Sometimes, reports are just unclear. In this example, the report photo indicates moisture or a stain on the underside of an elevated structure. This does not always mean that the structure is decayed or unsafe. It means that water is either leaking currently, or that moisture could be old or inactive, and could be an “old stain” with no need to replace anything. Proper maintenance will often keep a stain from growing or continuing in many cases!

Chris Sigler is the President and Owner of C.L. Sigler & Associates, Inc., a Construction Management and Consulting firm that has exclusively served the HOA industry for 22 years. He is a Civil Engineer by trade with more than 30 years of Engineering and Construction experience and is actively involved in SB 326 inspections throughout the Coachella Valley. Chris is certified with the Construction Specifications Institute (CSI) as a Construction Documents Technologist. Located in Palm Desert, his firm serves the Coachella Valley and Riverside County, while serving the San Francisco Bay Area in Northern California from their San Jose Corporate office. Chris can be reached at 408-210-8003 or by email at chris@siglercm.com www. siglercm.com

MOST IMPORTANT TAKEAWAYS FOR AN ASSOCIATION TO CONSIDER WHEN COMPLYING WITH THE SB 326 MANDATE ARE AS FOLLOWS:

Underside of deck substrate and/or framing show signs of water intrusion

Night

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The Pros and Cons of Saltwater vs. Chlorine Pools

By Mark Feldstein

When it comes to maintaining a swimming pool, the two most popular options are saltwater and chlorine systems. Both have their advantages and disadvantages, and the decision ultimately comes down to personal preference. Here are the pros and cons of saltwater vs. chlorine pools to help you make an informed decision:

Saltwater Pools

Saltwater pools use a salt cell to convert salt into chlorine, which sanitizes the water.

PROS:

1. Softer Water: Saltwater pools have lower chlorine levels than traditional chlorine pools, which can make the water feel softer and smoother on the skin.

2. Lower Chemical Use: Saltwater pools require less chlorine, which can lead to lower chemical use and less maintenance.

3. Cost Savings: Over time, a saltwater pool can save money on chemical costs, especially if you use a variable speed pump to reduce energy consumption.

CONS:

1. Initial Cost: Saltwater systems can cost more upfront than traditional chlorine systems.

2. Salt Corrosion: Salt can be corrosive and can damage pool equipment, such as metal rails or ladders.

3. pH Levels: Saltwater pools have high pH levels, which can cause scaling and require more frequent adjustments.

Chlorine Pools

Chlorine pools use chlorine tablets or liquid to sanitize the water.

PROS:

1. Effective Sanitation: Chlorine is a strong sanitizer and is effective at killing bacteria and algae in the water.

2. Lower Initial Cost: Chlorine systems are typically less expensive to install than saltwater systems.

3. Easy Maintenance: Chlorine pools are relatively easy to maintain, and there are several options for adjusting chlorine levels.

CONS:

1. Chemical Odor: Chlorine can produce a strong chemical odor, especially if the levels are not properly balanced.

2. Skin and Eye Irritation: High chlorine levels can cause skin and eye irritation, especially for those with sensitive skin.

3. Chlorine Smell: Chlorine can leave a distinct smell on skin and clothing, which can be unpleasant for some people.

4. Tablets, especially if placed in a floating dispenser, will typically end up hovering over the steps of the pool due to the water flow. The stream of chlorine on the steps will bleach out any color in the finish. We highly recommend you not use floating dispensers.

CONCLUSION:

Ultimately, the decision between a saltwater and chlorine pool comes down to personal preference. Saltwater pools offer softer water, lower chemical use, and potential cost savings over time. However, they also have a higher initial cost and can cause corrosion and pH level issues. Chlorine pools offer effective sanitation, easy maintenance, and lower initial costs, but can produce a chemical odor, cause skin and eye irritation, and leave a distinct chlorine smell on skin and clothing. Consider your needs and preferences, as well as the pros and cons of each option, before making a decision.

Mark Feldstein is the Chief Financial Officer and Marketing Director for Gardner Outdoor and Pool Remodeling. He can be reached at markf@ gardnerremodel.com or by phone at (909) 374-5520. Gardner Outdoor and Pool Remodeling has been serving the Southern California area since 1969. As one of only 50 licensed PebbleTec® applicators in the entire United States and the exclusive SoCal referral partner of Leslie’s Pool Supplies, Gardner Remodeling is the premier pool contractor in San Diego County, LA County, Orange County, and Coachella Valley. You can contact our Palm Desert office at 760-342-9756.

CAI-CV Membership Drive

Start recruiting and win cash prizes from CAI-CV and CAI National! Once again, Prendiville Insurance Agency is the title sponsor of the CAI-CV Membership Drive. You can win a $1,000 GRAND PRIZE Travel Voucher to go anywhere you want or turn it in for cash. The $1,000 prize will go to the member who brings in the most recruits during the year. The grand prize will be awarded at the Awards Ceremony on Friday, January 26, 2024.

Additionally, each month, the Chapter will hold a random drawing of all recruiters. The winner will receive a $50 Visa gift card, and they will receive a $25 gift card for their new member. Each month, recruiters will also be enrolled in CAI National’s membership drive where they will be eligible for an additional $100 or $200 prize based on the number of their recruits. They will also be eligible for CAI National’s coveted Recruiter of the Year Award.

This year, if we bring in 50 new members, CAI National will give the Chapter a $20,000 grant!

USE THESE LINKS TO ASSIST YOU WITH YOUR RECRUITING!

The Advantages and Benefits of Electronic Business Cards

By David Schuknecht, PCAM, MBA

In the digital age, networking and exchanging contact information have become essential for professionals. While traditional business cards have long served this purpose, the emergence of electronic business cards has revolutionized the way we connect and share information. In this article, we will explore the benefits and advantages of having and using an electronic business card.

1. ENVIRONMENTALLY FRIENDLY

One of the most significant advantages of electronic business cards is their positive impact on the environment. Traditional business cards are typically made from paper, which contributes to deforestation and increases waste. Electronic business cards eliminate the need for physical cards, reducing paper consumption and promoting sustainable practices. By opting for an electronic business card, professionals can contribute to a greener and more eco-friendly business environment.

2. CONVENIENCE AND ACCESSIBILITY

Electronic business cards offer unparalleled conve nience and accessibility. With a digital card stored on a smartphone or other electronic devices, profes sionals can always carry their contact information with them. There is no longer

a need to carry a stack of physical cards or worry about running out of them during important networking events. Electronic business cards ensure that you are always prepared to share your details with potential clients, colleagues, or partners.

3. EASY UPDATE AND CUSTOMIZATION

Unlike traditional business cards, electronic business cards can be easily updated and customized. Changes in contact details, such as phone numbers, email addresses, or job titles, can be instantly reflected in the electronic card. This eliminates the need to discard outdated physical cards or order new ones. Furthermore, electronic business cards can be personalized with

websites, enabling recipients to have a more comprehensive understanding of your professional background.

4. ENHANCED INTERACTIVITY

Electronic business cards offer an interactive experience that traditional cards cannot match. By leveraging the digital platform, professionals can include clickable links, QR codes, or even augmented reality elements in their electronic cards. This allows recipients to easily access relevant websites, social media profiles, or online portfolios with a simple tap or scan. The ability to engage recipients through multimedia content or interactive features adds a dynamic and memorable touch to networking interactions.

5. ANALYTICS AND TRACKING

Another advantage of electronic business cards is the ability to track and analyze interactions. With traditional business cards, it is challenging to measure the impact or effectiveness of a networking event or marketing campaign. However, electronic business cards can provide valuable insights into how many times the card was viewed, which links were clicked, or even the geographic location of the recipients. This data can help professionals understand the effectiveness of their network-

WELCOME ABOARD

6. INTEGRATION WITH DIGITAL TOOLS

Electronic business cards seamlessly integrate with various digital tools, streamlining the networking process. They can be easily shared through email, messaging apps, or social media platforms. Moreover, electronic cards can be effortlessly added to the recipient's contacts or CRM systems, ensuring that the contact details are readily accessible whenever needed. This integration eliminates the manual data entry process and reduces the chances of errors or miscommunication.

CONCLUSION

The advent of electronic business cards has transformed the way professionals connect and share contact information. Their eco-friendliness, convenience, easy update and customization, enhanced interactivity, analytics and tracking capabilities, and integration with digital tools make them a powerful tool for networking and personal branding. By embracing electronic business cards, professionals can enhance their professional image, reduce waste, and establish meaningful connections in an increasingly digital world.

To create your own digital business card, try Googling “digital business cards” and you will see many resources and guides to help you set up your new business card in minutes.

David J. Schuknecht, PCAM, MBA, is the Director of Management for Personalized Property Management. He can be reached at (760) 352-9500, Ext. 225 or by email at david@PPMinternet.com.

By Meaghan Gaffney-Howe CMCA, AMS

Melissa Rexilius Jose Salcedo Rigo Flores

Welcome aboard, Urban Habitat Landscape Contractors! Urban Habitat is a Coachella Valley-based contractor skilled in landscape maintenance services and design-build construction that has been servicing Southern California for over 15 years. They are very excited to announce the opening of a new branch in the Inland Empire, which is set for July of this year.

Urban Habitat tells us that their method of doing business sets them apart from many other landscape companies. They maintain a focus on incorporating sustainable landscape practices into their business operations, keeping in mind that natural surroundings are more important than ever, and that the health of our environment and its societal benefit is intertwined with the landscape around us. Integrated pest management is practiced; they use pest control chemicals only as a last resort. They also subscribe to the standards set by the International Society of Arborists when it comes to tree care, pruning standards, and safety.

Urban Habitat holds a C-27 License from the State of California. They also hold a Qualified Applicator License (QAL), are a Qualified Water Efficient Landscaper (QWEL), and an International Society of Arboriculture (ISA) Certified Arborist. They are also active with the National Association of Landscape Professionals (NALP). Urban Habitat was awarded the Silver Award of Excellence in 2021 by NALP for their work at the Silver Rock Park Venue, and the Gold Award of Excellence in 2021 for the Coachella Etherea Art Park Project.

Jose Salcedo is the Chief Operating Officer of Urban Habitat, and Rigo Flores is the Senior Account Manager for the company. Rigo has just completed the NALP Certification for Landscape Management Professionals, which focuses on maintenance, irrigation, and installation for those in management positions. Melissa Rexilius is the Director of Maintenance and primary contact for Urban Habitat in the Coachella Valley. A California State University San Marcos graduate, Melissa holds two undergraduate degrees, a B.A. in Anthropology and another in Sustainable Landscape Management and has completed graduate level coursework in Sustainable Natural Resources at Oregon State University. When not managing or designing urban landscapes, Melissa enjoys playing music, volunteering for search and rescue, and enjoying the weekends with her husband and daughter. Melissa Rexilius can be reached at (760) 972-2195 or melissa@myurbanhabitat.com.

Urban Habitat Landscape Contractors mailing address: 47250 Washington Street, Ste. B, La Quinta, CA 92253

Urban Habitat hopes to partner with CAI-CV communities to ensure that their urban habitat is one that is sustainable and long-lived, while providing economic benefit and enjoyment for those who live, work, and play within it. With their years of experience, together with their talented staff, Urban Habitat is confident that they are the best choice for landscape maintenance and construction in the desert. Please contact Melissa at Urban Habitat for more information on the services that are offered that can benefit your community!

Meaghan Gaffney-Howe, CMCA, AMS is a community manager and Vice President of The Gaffney Group, Inc. Meaghan can be reached at meaghan@thegaffneygroup.net.

ADUs…are The Winners!

By Leena Danpour, Esq.

Recent California legislation, which became effective as of January 1, 2023, makes it easier for homeowners to obtain permits for building accessory dwelling units (ADUs) on their lots. An ADU is an additional residential structure built on the same lot as a primary structure. California Senate Bill 897 and Assembly Bill 2221 (subsequently codified as Government Code Section 65852.2 and Health and Safety Code Section 17980.12), were enacted to increase the housing supply across the state, which, by doing so, significantly amends California state laws in favor of homeowners who want to build ADUs on their properties. The new laws have an astounding impact on how housing infrastructure will change. Below is a breakdown of the changes to the process of approving an ADU, the location of where an ADU may be constructed, and the allowable size of an ADU.

THE PROCESS

Historically, when a building plan for a structure is being approved by a local agency, subjective measures will be used to determine whether the size and style fit into the overall aesthetic of a given area. That is no longer the case for ADUs. The recently passed ADU laws require that local agencies only follow objective standards when reviewing an ADU application, and the laws prohibit following any “standard that involves personal or subjective judgment.” Such objective standards may include, but are not limited to, the ADU’s size, height, and safety. But it does not stop there. If an ADU application is denied for being in non-compliance with an objective standard, the homeowner is entitled to receive a full and extensive set of comments with a list of items that are defective and how those defects can be remediated. These laws supersede an association’s governing documents that may contain contrary or prohibitive language.

THE LOCATION

An ADU may be attached to, or detached from, a primary dwelling. The recent laws now permit an ADU that is detached from a primary dwelling to be constructed in a garage. Further, a lot’s front yard setback can no longer be used to prohibit construction of an ADU, if there is no alternative to allow for construction of an eight hundred (800) square feet ADU that meets height limits, provided it complies with a four-foot side and rear setback.

THE SIZE

There are also revised height limits for ADUs. An ADU can now be built as high as eighteen (18) feet, if it is detached from a primary dwelling and on a lot within one-half mile walking distance of a major transit stop or on a lot with an existing or proposed multi-family dwelling. However, if an ADU is attached to a primary dwelling, it can now be built as high as twenty-five (25) feet. This means that ADUs can now be built as tall structures, and potentially as a two-story structure.

What does this mean for associations? It means that it will be difficult for associations and local agencies to stop homeowners from building ADUs on their lots, unless there is a good objective reason to do so. It also means that if an association denies a homeowner’s plan to build a non-ADU additional structure on their lot, savvy homeowners can then convert their plan to one involving an ADU, and thus the recent ADU laws will provide more confidence to homeowners that they will be permitted to do so.

Can of worms anyone?

Leena Danpour, Esq. is an Associate Attorney with the law firm of SwedelsonGottlieb and exclusively represents Homeowners Associations in both litigation and transactional matters, providing corporate governance advice to boards of directors who serve associations throughout California. You may reach Leena at (310) 207-2207 Ext. 206 or by email at ld@sghoalaw.com.

49950 Jefferson Street, Suite 130-117 Indio, CA 92201

CAI-CV

JULY

EVENTS

CAI-CV AND DCHC BOARD MEMBER WORKSHOP (BMW)

(For board members)

WHEN: Tuesday, July 11, 2023, 9:30 (networking), 10:00 a.m. (program)

WHERE: Via Zoom

TOPIC: Maintenance – Developing & Utilizing Maintenance Programs

FREE RSVP:

SPONSORSHIPS: HOA Board Member Workshops (BMW)

Sponsorships - CAI-CV

CAI-CV ANNUAL BOWLING TOURNAMENT – COSMIC BOWLING

(For all members)

WHEN: Friday, July 14, 2023, 5:30 p.m.

WHERE: Palm Springs Lanes

REGISTER SPONSORSHIPS

CAI-CV ANNUAL CAM DAY

(For Community Association Managers and Assistant Managers)

WHEN: Friday, July 28, 2023, 9:00 a.m.

WHERE: Sun City Palm Desert, 38180 Del Webb Blvd.

REGISTER

SPONSORSHIPS: 2023 CAMDAY - CAI-CV

AUGUST

CAI-CV AND DCHC BOARD MEMBER WORKSHOP (BMW)

(For board members)

WHEN: Tuesday, August 8, 2023, 9:30 (networking), 10:00 a.m. (program)

WHERE: Via Zoom

TOPIC: New Mandated Recycling Programs & Waste Programs for HOAs

REGISTER:

SPONSORSHIPS:

CAI’S CALIFORNIA COMMON INTEREST DEVELOPMENT LAW COURSE (For managers; all members welcome)

WHEN: Monday, Wednesday, Friday, August 7, 9, 11, 2023, 9:00 a.m. to 11:45 p.m.

WHERE: Via Zoom

REGISTER:

CAI CALIFORNIA CMCA REVIEW

(For Managers)

WHEN: Friday, August 18, 2023, 8:30 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.

WHERE: Via Zoom

REGISTER:

2023 Marketing Plan

FOR CAI NATIONAL EVENTS AT CAIONLINE.ORG

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