ASK THE MANAGER Manager Stephen Herr answers a question about capital assessments.
TREASURER’S ANNUAL REPORT FOR 2011
T
his Treasurer’s report provides a preliminary view of the Forest Heights Homeowners Association 2010 fiscal results in advance of the annual meeting, to be held on May 3, 2011. These results are also available online. Once the annual audit is complete, the information will be also available on the website. In addition to the Treasurer, financial review is augmented by the Association’s Budget & Finance committee. The primary function of this group is to ensure that the Association’s dues and assessments are reasonable and necessary and that expenditures are prudent and appropriate. The involvement of this dedicated and experienced group is essential to the Association’s financial health and provides members with an additional oversight of activities as well as a supplemental perspective to the board of directors. The association ended the year with healthy balances in all funds and a stable cash position. This achievement ensures that money will available to undertake the association’s next large activity, the dredging of Mill Pond. Operating results achieved 99.9% of budget in both revenue and expense components, producing a virtual equilibrium in those elements. Achieving these results was no small task, since Oregon’s Business
LOST PETS
GO GREEN
Resources and help for when your pet goes missing.
Vertical wind turbines and electricity—is there interest in Forest Heights?
COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES Sign up for the spring community garage sale.
pinnacle press NEWS AT FOREST HEIGHTS
MAY•2011
Energy Tax Credits (BETC) program was severely curtailed. The operating budget had anticipated receiving $40,140 through this program; no money was available to the association. Thankfully, the association’s manager and staff kept a sharp focus on activities and ensured that regulations were properly followed, bringing in more money through fees than originally budgeted. In addition, delinquent accounts were rigorously pursued, resulting in additional, unbudgeted income. Costs were also subject to scrutiny throughout the year. Under runs from common area maintenance and supplies expenditures were used to fund the Lot 265 Improvement project (corner of Miller and Thompson Roads). In addition, the manager and staff successfully converted to new financial software that will provide more timely and detailed on-going results. Finally, banking services were moved to a new provider, enabling significant reductions in costs for this activity. These latter two achievements took place towards the end of 2010 and, while not significantly impacting 2010 results, provide a good foundation for lower costs beginning with 2011 operations. While the Association is in good, stable financial condition, care must be continued on page 2
FE AT UR E D COLUM N S
Treasurer’s Annual Report for 2011
1-2
Annual Meeting, Board Elections & Candidate Statements
4-5
Spring Community Garage Sale
6
Turn Garage Sale Finds into Treasures
7
Upcoming Community Events
8-9
Guest Column: Reunions With Lost Pets Need Help
10-11
GO GREEN: Vertical Wind Turbines, Go Green Survey and Storm Water Class
12-13
Ask the Manager: Capital Assessments
14
Easter Egg Hunt Recap
15
Compliance Corner: Bark Dust, FPE School Grounds and Pothole Repair
18-19
Forest Park Elementary Spring Carnival
19
continued from page 1
Email: contactus@fhhoa.com
taken to maintain this status. The Association has reached a mature level and can no longer expect to gain revenue from the addition of large numbers of new homes. A combination of creative generation of new revenue opportunities, along with scrupulous review and analysis of spending and the results those expenditures deliver will be necessary to minimize future increases in assessments.
Vision Statement To create and foster excellence in community, environment and quality of life.
Utilizing these principals, the Budget & Finance Committee has developed the 2011 budget, which balances planned expenditures with conservatively estimated income. As a result, both operating and reserve requirements were met without needing to increase assessments.
Forest Heights Homeowners Association 2033 NW Miller Road Portland, Oregon 97229 Phone: 503.297.9400 Fax: 503.297.9408 Office Hours: Monday—Friday 9:00 am—5:00 pm
Continued vigilance will still be necessary throughout 2011 to ensure that these goals will be achieved. For the future beyond 2011, association members must help define the quality of life desired for Forest Heights and find the capacity to fund the investment needed to meet that quality. ~ Ric Barton, FHHOA Treasurer & Board Member ~
Board of Directors | 2010 Eric Butterfield—President Michael Fletcher—Vice President Sherrill Corbett—Secretary Ric Barton—Treasurer
Upcoming Meetings
Stuart Roberts Mark Sanzone
Annual Meeting
Joseph Schutz
The Annual Homeowners Meeting is this Tuesday, May 3rd. Please join
Association Staff
us at the Forest Park Elementary
Stephen K. Herr—General Manager email: sherr@fhhoa.com
Cafeteria at 7:00 pm.
Judith Souers—Office Administrator email: jsouers@fhhoa.com Molly McManus Oliver—Compliance Coordinator email: moliver@fhhoa.com Kimberly Monaco—Marketing, Communications & Event Coordinator email: kmonaco@fhhoa.com
Board Meeting The next FHHOA Board Meeting will occur on May 10th, 2011 at the HO office. Call to Order occurs at 6:00 pm. All homeowners are welcome to attend!
Richard Metzger—Maintenance Supervisor Juan Guerrero—Maintenance Team Page 2
Page 3
NOTICE: ANNUAL MEETING OF THE HOMEOWNERS OF FOREST HEIGHTS HOMEOWNERS A S S O C I AT I O N VOTING INSTRUCTIONS Vote in-person at the meeting The Board of Directors of the Forest Heights Homeowners Association hereby gives Notice of the Annual Meeting of Homeowners Date:
Tuesday May 3, 2011
Time:
7:00 pm
Location:
Forest Park Elementary School 9935 NW Durrett Street Portland, OR 97229
The purpose of the meeting is to: (1) elect three individuals to serve as members of the Forest Heights’ Board of Directors (“Directors”) (2) such other matters as come before the owners at the meeting. Members of record as of May 1, 2011 are eligible to vote in this election Directed proxies will be available at the association’s website: www.fhhoa.com. Directors need not be residents of Forest Heights, nor are they required to be owners of property within Forest Heights. The three (3) individuals elected will be elected to serve a three year term. NOTE: Please send in your proxy. Our quorum requirement is 20%, or 362 members represented.
To vote in person, you must execute a ballot at the annual meeting
Vote by electronic absentee ballot
To vote electronically, you must vote by midnight on Sunday, May 1, 2010, and you may either: vote on-line at the association’s website (starting Tuesday April 5th) or send an electronic absentee ballot via email to the Association at vote@fhhoa.com. The email must contain: 1.) how you elect to cast your vote 2.) your name, property address, and electronic signature listed as (“/first and last name/”) Neither an electronic absentee ballot, nor an on-line absentee ballot, may be revoked.
Vote by mail or by proxy To vote by proxy (special mailing), your proxy must contain the date, your property address or lot number, must be signed and may be: mailed or hand delivered to: Forest Heights Homeowners Association: 2033 NW Miller Road | Portland, Or | 97229 (must be physically received by noon on May 3, 2011) faxed to the association at: 503.297.9408 e-mailed to the association at vote@fhhoa.com hand delivered to the meeting on May 3, 2011 All ballots or proxies must be received and verified by the inspectors of elections by the close of the voting period on May 3, 2011 to be counted as a valid vote. The voting period may be extended by the board of directors if a Page 4 quorum is not present at the annual meeting.
BOARD CAND IDATE PRO F IL E S A ND S TAT E M E NT S Candidate: Heather Gaitan Profile My husband, three children and I moved back to Portland in September 2010 after having lived in Canada and Spain for seven years. We chose Forest Heights for its great location, access to the Lincoln cluster Spanish immersion program, the well-maintained common areas and the obvious care and pride that people take in their homes and the neighborhood. My professional background is in public policy and non-profit work but for the past ten years I have been a stay at home mom and a very active volunteer. The most relevant and rewarding volunteer work I have done has been as President of the Board of Directors of a cooperative preschool and as a co-chair of the open spaces committee of a former HOA to which I belonged. As head of the preschool board, I was in charge of hiring and supervising the paid staff, managing the budget and leading the board in its long and short term planning for the school. On the HOA committee, I helped organize a successful effort to secure 75% homeowner approval to cede open space land to the Tualatin Valley Park and Recreation Department in exchange for its perpetual maintenance and community approved improvements. I have also taught English as a second language, served on the PTA at my children’s schools and led the organization of events serving several hundred people. Statement I am interested in joining the Forest Heights Homeowners Association board because I believe that it is
important for homeowners to be involved in their community. My priorities as a board member would be to continue prudent management of the organization’s finances, careful thinking and planning for the future and to promote community adhesiveness and opportunities for involvement.
Candidate: Mike Fletcher (Incumbent) Profile I moved to Portland (Forest Heights) ten years ago from Missouri. I am married (Cheryl) and have two children (Jack, 6 and Kennedy, 5). I selected Forest Heights based upon location, beauty and the diversity of the neighborhood. I am a business attorney. When I am not working, I am generally spending time with my family and also with friends, many of which live in Forest Heights. Statement I currently serve on the board. I am familiar with how the board operates, how management operates, and with the challenges and opportunities facing the board. I have the business and personal skills needed to help the board operate efficiently and to continue to improve Forest Heights. Although we have a great neighborhood, I believe there is still much room for improvement. As an attorney, I have worked with numerous boards, so I have a good understanding of what makes Boards effective, and ineffective.
Candidate: Stuart Roberts (Incumbent) Profile I live in Forest Heights with my wife Cynthia, and my 2 sons Harrison and Sheldon, who attend Forest Park Elementary School and the Gilkey International School. I am the Quality Manager at a company that manufactures electronic medical devices. I am a Chartered Engineer, and have served on the West Coast board of the Institution of Electrical Engineers. I love living in Forest Heights, Portland, and Oregon. I have been a very enthusiastic member of the FHHOA Parks and Recreation Committee, before being elected to the Forest Heights board of directors in May 2008. I am now also a member of the Association Management Oversight Committee and board Liaison to the Trails and Natural Habitat Committee. Statement In serving our community, I would like to improve: •
Property values by completing appropriate community projects
•
Fiscal responsibility with our HOA dues and maximize the value for our money
•
Forest Heights by achieving some of the improvements described in the approved community master plan
•
Communication channels between the board, employees, committees, and homeowners
•
The community transportation system and the trails system Page 5
FOREST HEIGHTS COMMUNITY GARAGE SALE WHAT:
7th Annual Forest Heights Community Garage Sale
WHEN:
Saturday, June 4th, 2011 9:00 am to 3:00 pm
HOW:
Sign up here to participate
June 4th
Here is what we provide: Advertising in local newspapers Signage in the neighborhood Maps with addresses of participating homes Balloons so shoppers will know where to find you Pick-up of your unsold garage sale items by the ARC on Monday, June 6th, 8:00 am. Sorry, no large furniture or appliances can be picked up by ARC
Sign up here to participate in the spring garage sale!
NOTE: You must register online by May 15th in order for your home to be listed on the garage sale map
Tips for a successful garage sale •
Combine sale items in one location with your neighbors
•
Come to the HOA office on the morning of June 4th for your free balloons to mark your home as a “participating home” in the sale
•
Highlight kid-related items in the participating homes’ list
•
Start collecting shopping bags & boxes for your shoppers
•
Make sure you have old newspaper on hand to wrap fragile items
•
Do not price your items too high
Page 6
TURN GARAGE SALE FINDS INTO TREASURES The designers at the Forest Heights Design Studio have put together several great ideas for you to consider when shopping at the upcoming Forest Heights Garage Sale. Be sure to include the studio on your garage sale route as they will be participating in the sale, offering fantastic designer samples.
T
he designers at Forest Heights Design Studio have some great ideas about what to do with your garage sale finds. Here are some things to consider when shopping at the Forest Height Garage Sale: Don’t focus on the paint color of an object because anything can be painted, even plastic. Krylon produces a spray paint for plastics called FUSION. No priming or sanding is required and there are thirty nine colors to choose from, so the sky’s the limit. Let go of your imagination. If you like the shape or design of something but can’t visualize the piece in your home turn it into something else. Let’s say you like a statue or figure. Why not create a lamp out of it? Many lamps start out as found objects and are then transformed into original light fixtures. Now this is true recycling. If you need help with your lamp construction, Naomi’s Lampshade Shop in Lake Oswego can help. We’ve all seen enough HGTV to know that some treasures take more than a can of spray paint to breathe new life into them. For instance, this chair has metamorphosed several times over the last few months and each time we added new paint and new fabric. You not only
have to consider the color coordination of a piece, but the style you wish to highlight. It started out traditional, then we took it to contemporary and who knows what it will be next! How about aqua paint with funky floral fabric? This headboard was a room divider. The third panel was removed and used in a garden for a clematis vine and the remaining panels are affixed to the wall behind the bed. This treatment isn’t as visually heavy as a solid headboard. It’s great for a small room. Here is a sorry looking chair that was purchased at a garage sale for $35. When it was repainted, the painter saw the craftsman signature on the framing, so she signed her name as well. It’s a quality piece that simply needed a new lease on life. We are confident you’ll find amazing treasures at the upcoming Forest Heights Neighborhood Garage sale. We are happy to help figure out what to do with your new soon-to-be treasure at the Forest Heights Design Studio.
BEFORE
AFTER
Happy Shopping! ~ Submitted by the Forest Heights Design Studio Team ~
Page 7
BEFORE
AFTER
Audubon Society Plant Sale Spring is sprouting and blooming, once again, at the Portland Audubon Society Native Plant Sale! All gardeners are welcome as we are eager to help you celebrate the growing season. Over 100 species of Oregon wildflowers, shrubs and trees will be available to enhance your yard, woodland or streambank. Special shopping lists for shade, sun, butterflies and hummingbirds are available as well as on-site plant experts to answer your questions.
Native Plant Sale | Audubon Society Date: May 14th—15th, 2011 Time: 10:00am—4:00 pm Location: Audubon Society of Portland 5151 NW Cornell Road Contact: Tom Costello, Audubon Sanctuary Manager 503.292.6855 or email: tcostello@audubonsociety.org Proceeds benefit Portland Audubon programs such as nature education, wildlife sanctuaries and wildlife rehabilitation.
Page 8
Upcoming Community Events Annual Meeting Date: Tuesday, May 3rd, 2011 Time: 7:00 pm Location: Forest Park Elementary
Manage Your Storm Water Training
Community Says: Fireworks Only!
Date: Saturday, May 7th, 2011 Time: 10:00 am—12:00 pm Location: HOA Office
Community “Shred It” Day
L
ast fall the Community Activities Committee (CAC) conducted a survey of our homeowners, asking for feedback on the annual events that CAC and the HOA produce each year. While an overwhelming number of residents believe that the community events help make Forest Heights a great place to live and provide a positive sense of community spirit, a large number of residents also believe that the present day economy requires belt tightening to ensure adequate funding for all HOA obligations. With this in mind, CAC has decided to scale back on this year’s 4th of July Celebration. But don’t worry, we’re keeping the very best part of the evening! This year’s 4th of July Celebration will consist (only) of a spectacular fireworks show. We’re already working with our pyro-technicians to change the format of the show and are adding an even bigger finale to the program. By eliminating the pre-show dessert, disc-jockey, dancing and other activities, CAC is saving the association approximately $18,000—and these funds have already been put back into the general operating budget. More details will follow in subsequent newsletters, but please plan to join us on the 4th!
Date: Saturday, May 14th, 2011 Time: 9:00 am—12:00 pm Location: Skyline Memorial Gardens 4101 NW Skyline Boulevard
Native Plant Sale | Audubon Society Date: May 14th—15th, 2011 Time: 10:00am—4:00 pm Location: Audubon Society of Portland 5151 NW Cornell Road
Spring Garage Sale Date: Saturday, June 4th, 2011 Time: 9:00am—3:00 pm Location: Forest Heights Neighborhood
Forest Park Elementary Carnival Date: Friday, June 10th, 2011 Time: 5:00 pm—8:00 pm Location: Forest Park Elementary
Page 9
GUEST COLUMNIST
REUNIONS WITH LOST PETS NEED A LITTLE BIT OF HELP
W
hen Petra Runckel's Pomeranian puppy escaped from a friend's home on Southeast Holgate Boulevard recently, she fretted about Kodiak's safety in a strange neighborhood. Her boyfriend quickly posted an online notice on the "lost and found" section on Craigslist, which was spotted by a Multnomah County Animal Services dispatcher. The agency sent several animal control officers to find him. Kodiak had wandered almost 20 blocks by the time animal control officer Nicole Cherry spotted him on Southeast Powell Boulevard. Runckel and Kodiak enjoyed a happy reunion. But not everyone is so lucky. Only 16 percent of dogs and 2 percent of cats are reclaimed by owners at shelters, according to the National Council on Pet Population Study & Policy.
"In Portland, there really is no one repository to go (to) for found animals or lost animals," says Kathy Covey, public relations manager for the Cat Adoption Team. That's why you should head immediately for your nearest animal shelter. Most have "lost and found" sections on their website that allow you to file a loss report. She recommends going to as many animal shelters and rescue groups as possible. Most county shelter websites have online loss-report forms. DoveLewis Emergency Animal Hospital has a lost-and-found database, as do www.petfinder.com and Craigslist. But "the most important thing they can do is make an actual visit to the shelter in their area," says Lisa Feder, director of shelter operations at the
Humane Society for Southwest Washington. "We get 7,000 stray animals a year. That accounts for a lot of black cats." When you go to the shelter, don't forget to take along photos of your pet, advises Deborah Wood, manager of Washington County Animal Services and the Bonnie L. Hays Small Animal Shelter. Call veterinarians within a 10- to 15mile radius from your home; they might have been contacted by people who find lost animals after shelter hours. If your indoor cat is a "door-dasher," catsinthebag.org offers suggestions for finding lost cats based on personality. Shy cats may be huddled under a bush too frightened to make a sound, for instance. You can save a lot of heartache by licensing your pet with your county, which helps the shelter find you if your pet ends up there, and implanting it with a microchip. But be sure to update your address and phone number with the microchip manufacturer if your contact information changes. You can get the manufacturer's information by having the chip scanned at a local shelter or veterinary clinic. Summer-proof your house by making sure gates are latched, doors are closed and window screens are intact, Hallmark suggests. Finally, spay and neuter your pet. continued on page 11 ď‚Š Page 10
Leash up the hounds! Properly trained, a man can be dog's best friend. ~Corey Ford
continued on from page 10
"Intact dogs are about six times more likely to come to our shelter than spayed or neutered dogs," Wood says. She estimates nearly 5 percent of all intact dogs in Washington County visited the shelter last year, compared to less than 1 percent of spayed/neutered dogs. Intact animals are simply more likely to stray. Finding lost pets If you find an animal that seems lost, start by calling your local shelter. Most shelters have a holding period of at least three days before they will put the animal up for adoption. "If (the animal) has any sort of identification, tag, microchip, anything like that, we will hold it for a minimum of five days to give the owners a chance to come looking for them," says Feder of the Humane Society for Southwest Washington. "After that, we will evaluate the animal and make a decision about whether to put it up for adoption." Post your furry find in the local newspaper classifieds, Craigslist or Petfinder.com. County shelters are best equipped to handle strays and give priority to strays over owner-surrendered animals. Most only take the latter if space is available. Cat Adoption Team will take strays from areas whose county shelters don't handle cats, such as Clackamas and Yamhill counties, Covey says.
A sure sign of spring is the growing number of dogs and their owners walking and playing in the neighborhood. What typically seems to follow is an increase in the number of residents voicing concerns about dogs being offleash and pet waste being left in yards, on trails and in common areas. As a friendly reminder, Forest Heights CC&R’s Section 6.4 state that, “No dog shall be permitted to roam Forest Heights unattended, and all dogs shall be kept on a leash while outside the Residential Lot of their Owner.”
This applies to the common areas within our neighborhood, including Mill Pond Park and our trail system. Dogs must also be leashed at the City of Portland Forest Heights Park adjacent to Forest Park Elementary. Additionally, Forest Park Elementary school asks that dogs not be on school property during the school day (see page 19). Picking up your pet’s waste is a neighborly courtesy; it’s also the law. Multnomah County requires pet owners to immediately remove pet waste from any public area. At 40 strategic locations within Forest Heights, including most trailheads, “mutt mitt” stations are available with both bags and covered trash receptacles. Residents who live along pet owner’s walking routes thank you in advance for picking up after your pet!
The Sherwood shelter requires an intake appointment, and staffers will take only what they can handle. "Being a no-kill shelter, we theoretically can only bring in kitties when we adopt out other cats," Covey says. Waiting list The Oregon Humane Society sends stray dogs straight to Multnomah County Animal Services. The shelter can take stray cats, but only if they pass a careful screening to ensure they're safe to adopt out. Depending on how full the shelter is, there may be a waiting list, says spokeswoman Barbara Baugnon. The shelter's policy on accepting owner-surrendered animals is the same. The Humane Society for Southwest Washington is unusual in that it takes in both strays and owner-surrendered animals without any qualifications, Feder says. But if you're outside of Clark County, expect to pay an additional $50 out-of-county fee on top of the usual surrender fee.
People who make an emotional decision to "rescue" an animal by keeping it at home rather than go to a county shelter that attempts to help locate the owner aren't helping, says Amy Sacks, executive director of the Pixie Project. They often realize too late that they're ill-equipped to handle a pet and give it up to a shelter months after the pet was lost, she says. That's when they call her asking for help. "If somebody's holding your dog at their house, and you don't know, it's very upsetting," Sacks says. "People will search and search for their longlost animal and it's sitting in somebody's house." ~ Reprinted with permission by Monique Balas, contributing Oregonian reporter ~
You also can try breed-specific rescue groups. What you shouldn't do is keep it at your house for a long time without making an effort to find its owner.
Page 11
Storm Water Management Are you curious about managing rainwater? Have you considered a rain garden but were not sure where to start? Do you look at our bountiful rain and often say "there must be a better way than to let it all go down the drain?" Look no further!! Come attend the "Manage Your Storm Water" presentation on the 7th of May at the HOA offices.
of Forest Heights. Seats are very limited and reservations are required. To RSVP, send an email to: contactus@fhhoa.com with the subject "Storm Water".
The presentation will be given by the West Multnomah Soil and Conservation District and the City of Portland. Free to all residents
SURVEY SAYS... Have you taken the FHHOA Go Green Survey?
O
ver the past two years, the Forest Heights Homeowners Association (FHHOA) Go Green committee has undertaken several activities and projects to improve our environment and make our community more livable and sustainable. Using the results of past surveys, the Go Green committee has completed or is working on the following projects: •
•
Renegotiated the current landscaping maintenance contract to reduce environmental impacts by improving landscaping methods and in the process saved money for our community Worked with the Architectural Review Committee to modify covenants to more easily approve use of solar panels within our neighborhood. The committee
and the FHHOA partnered with Imagine Energy to bring solar panel installation to our neighborhood at lower costs •
Participated in development of the new park at the corner of Thompson and Miller
•
Worked with the Board to adopt the Portland Plant List that requires common area landscape use approved native or drought tolerant plants
•
Worked with the board to adopt a resolution to require watershed protection as neighboring associations develop around Forest Heights
•
Held educational seminars at Forest Park Elementary for interested residents
Click Mother Earth to take the Go Green Survey •
Currently developing a community garden proposal
•
Currently carrying out habitat restoration in our common space to remove invasive species and reduce erosion and runoff
It’s time to give the Go Green committee feedback on the next round of projects you think will make Forest Heights more sustainable, improve our quality of life, and better protect our environment. Please complete the survey by May 15, 2011.The Go Green committee will use survey results to prioritize work for 2011-2012.
Page 12
Vertical Wind Turbines: Artwork in the Yard?
I
t sure is windy up here in the heights! Wind is one of the most abundant natural resources that we have. With the quick adoption of wind for electricity generation, we are on our way to have 20% of our energy needs met with wind by 2030. Wind power currently accounts for 2% of our power generation and we second in the World in wind power generation. Oregon is the 6th largest producer of wind power in the US (Washington is the 4th). In terms of percentage contribution, wind power generation in Oregon accounts for 7% of total power generated and is the 4th in the nation. Vestas, the world's largest wind turbine manufacturer has its North American headquarters in Portland. While commercial wind farm development has been accelerating over the past ten years, residential wind power generation has also started gaining ground including systems designed for the urban residences. In order to overcome perceived aesthetic issues with traditional wind turbines, manufacturers have moved on to vertical axis turbines
that are mounted on poles and rotate around the pole on the top. And along with the change to the axis, manufacturers have started making them as objects of art, something that one may stand in awe of. The day might come when you’ll be able to "commission" your turbine! One manufacturer already lets you pick the color and print, much like how you may pick the look of a laptop. Vertical axis wind turbines are more suitable for urban areas than traditional horizontal axis wind turbines because: • •
• • •
they are very quiet they can be placed close to one another and thus the likelihood of neighbors blocking one another's wind is small they can produce power with weaker winds they are rugged they can be placed closer to the ground and so can be mounted on rooftops and chimney tops
In general, residential wind power systems qualify for State and Federal tax credits. 30% of the cost can be recovered as federal tax credit. Oregon provides a tax credit of $4500 for every kW of installed capacity. However, at the time of writing, Energy Trust of Oregon does not recommend residential wind power systems for the urban Portland area. Given the rapid evolution of the systems, this may change in the very near future. We will revisit this area in a year or so. Please let us know if you think we should have future articles on other aspects of the residential wind power. Or if you have a topic on sustainability that we should write about, please do let us know. Disclaimer: • •
All installations/improvements must be approved by the Architecture Review Committee of the HOA Currently, there are no guidelines for wind installations in Forest Heights. Based on feedback from Energy Trust on the current state of Residential Wind Power systems for the Portland area, the HOA and the ARC does not intend to formulate any guidelines until these systems gain
To learn more... Homewind www.homewind.net/
Urban Green Energy www.urbangreenenergy. com/
Residential Wind Power www.residential-windpower.com/
Helix Wind helixwind.com/en/
Tangerie www.tangarie.com
DSIRE USA Oregon Tax Credit DSIRE USA Residential Renewable Energy Tax Credit Page 13
“Curiosity is one of the great secrets of happiness.” - Bryant H. McGill
ASK THE MANAGER “Does the association have any capital assessments planned?”
Are you curious about things going on in our community? Do you ever wonder about something you see while walking or driving through our neighborhood? Do you have questions about issues that impact Forest Heights? Here’s your opportunity to get some answers! Our General Manager, Stephen Herr, will answer your questions about Forest Heights each month in this article. If you are wondering about something, chances are others in our community are curious about the same thing, so do us all a favor and send in your questions. If Manager Herr can’t answer the question, he’ll find someone who can! Please email your questions to contactus@fhhoa.com with “Ask the Manager” in the subject line. Questions received by the 10th of each month will be answered in the newsletter the following month.
R
ecently this question has been asked — with frequency — due to the number of new owners in Forest Heights. Most of the time I believe this question relates to a special assessment and not a capital assessment. I always answer this question with the same response, “not at this time”. A special assessment is different from a capital assessment. A special assessment is a one-time assessment used to cover non-routine expenditures or when your reserve funds are not sufficient to cover the entire cost of a project, whereas a capital assessment is typically an assessment for a new improvement (new amenity) for the community which was not previously funded. The replacement fund, which is part of the annual budget process and is funded from your annual assessments, is reviewed annually by the association. The association also prepares an annual study of this fund. The replacement schedule is a timetable for accumulating and spending funds for replacing major items (i.e. the Miller Hill White Fence). Maintaining this fund minimizes the need for special assessments. The Forest Heights Declaration of Protective Covenants, Conditions and Restricts (CC&R’s) state:
10.3 Capital Improvement Assessments “No new Capital Improvement Assessment may be imposed under this section which, for any one purchase, construction or other acquisition, or group
of related purchases, constructions or other acquisitions, in the aggregate exceeds $10,000, unless approved by the vote or written consent of the Class B member, if any, and by not less than seventy-five percent (75%) of the votes of the Class A members who are voting in person, by absentee ballot or by proxy at a meeting duly called for the purpose of approving the Capital Improvement Assessment.” Any capital assessment brought before the association exceeding $10,000 would require a vote of the membership. For a capital assessment to pass, a quorum of twenty percent (20%) of the membership must be achieved, and then seventyfive percent (75%) of those voting must approve (pass) the assessment (i.e. 100 members, 20% quorum requirement = 20, 40 members represented/attended meeting, 75% = 30 yes votes). The association, through the Tract R Task Force, is exploring a design concept for the development of Tract R (2.22 acres of open space between Forest Heights Crossing and Mill Pond); however no formal plan(s) have been approved by the community for this capital project. Please plan to attend the annual meeting on May 3rd to hear the presentation by Brian Bainnson from Quatrefoil (LSA) and his design ideas for recreational amenities/enhancements to this open space. ~ Stephen Herr, FHHOA General Manager ~ Page 14
Fun was had by all at the Annual Easter Egg Hunt
Be sure to check out all the photos from this year’s hunt at the association’s Facebook page!
Great weather – and the Easter Bunny – brought out smiles, laughter and an all-around great time at last month’s Annual Egg Hunt. The HOA would like to thank to all the volunteers (many of whom were children) who helped make this year’s hunt another success. And special thanks to Forest Heights resident and photographer Mike Schoenholtz for the wonderful photos below. Be sure to check out the association’s Facebook page for additional photos!
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West Hills Vision Care 7535 SW Barnes Road, Suite 111 Portland, Oregon 97225 503.764.9321
Interested in advertising in the Forest Heights Community Newsletter?
When you advertise in the FHHOA Community Newsletter, your ad will appear monthly during your contract period. In addition to your ad, we provide links to your website from the both the newsletter itself and the monthly email blast that delivers the newsletter, and are able to tell you how many clicks your ad and links received from our readership. For ad rates, submission deadlines and general information, please contact Kim Monaco, Marketing, Communications and Event Coordinator, at: kmonaco@fhhoa.com or by phone 503.297.9400. Page 16
COMMUNITY SHRED IT EVENT Shred documents for free! Bring up to three (3) boxes to Skyline Memorial Gardens on Saturday, May 14th between 9:00 am to 12:00 pm. Secure shredding provided by Cintas. All shreddings are recycled.
Community Shred It Event Date: Saturday, May 14th Time: 9:00 am—12:00 pm Location: Skyline Memorial Gardens 4101 NW Skyline Blvd | Portland, OR 97229 www.skylinememorialgardens.com
Come to our Annual FREE Mother's Day Celebration Class! We'll have a great workout, then meet up for post-workout snacks and a silent auction benefiting Doernbecher Children's Hospital. We have swag bags with free stuff for the first 30 moms, dads or grandparents! We'll offer huge discounts on Baby Boot Camp memberships as well. Where: THPRD Athletic Center 50 NW 158th Ave, Beaverton When: Friday, May 6th Class starts promptly at 9:00am RSVP: 503.780.9235 or email klan.pimley@babybootcamp.com For more information: www.babybootcampbeaverton.com All fitness levels are welcome and encouraged! Be Fit. Be Strong. Be Together.ÂŽ
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COMPLIANCE CORNER
LANDSCAPE DO’S AND DONT’S: BARKDUST
W
ith spring upon us, many of you will be sprucing up your yards — while at the same time taking steps to prevent spring and summer weeds from taking over your yard and gardens — by applying bark dust around your property. Before you take this step, please remember that the Forest Heights Homeowners Architectural Guidelines require that all homeowners use aged, dark bark dust (Section 5.5) as a general ground cover in the landscape. Aged bark dust is darker in color than fresh bark dust. There are two predominant types of aged bark dust available that meet this requirement: Hemlock and Fir, and aged bark dust of either variety is allowed as a general ground cover in Forest Heights.
bark dust company, rather than purchasing bags of bark dust from a home improvement store. You can view the bark at a local distributor and confirm its color and age before ordering. All the companies listed below deliver to your home, and some will blow the bark dust on to your landscape for an additional fee. They also have information to help you determine the quantity of bark you need.
LOCAL BARK DUST SUPPLIERS BarkBlowers www.barkblowers.com
Barkdusters www.barkdusters.com
Although Fir costs less, Hemlock tends to have fewer splinters and is often preferred by homeowners with small children and/or pets, and by those who do their own gardening.
Best Buy in Town
“Fresh” bark dust, red colored bark dust and bark nuggets are not allowed as a general ground cover in landscapes.
Rexius
Forest Heights owners often ask the HOA office where to purchase aged, dark bark dust. Our recommendation is to buy from a local
www.bestbuyintown.biz
YES: AGED DARK HEMLOCK OR FIR
N0: “FRESH” OR RED COLORED BARK
Grimms Fuel www.grimmsfuel.com
www.rexius.com/portland
If you have any questions, please contact Molly Oliver, Compliance Coordinator, at 503-297-9400 or moliver@fhhoa.com.
NO: BARK CHIPS OR NUGGETS
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Forest Park Elementary Grounds: When Are They Available for Use? The Association Office recently received several calls from residents who were asked to leave the track/soccer field at Forest Park Elementary by school staff. They wanted to know why they could not walk on the track or the soccer field. Has something changed? We spoke with Dr. Kimberly Matier, Forest Park Elementary Principal. She tells us that the track/soccer fields, as well as all other school grounds, are not open to the public during school hours on days when school is in session. Dr. Matier states, “This
policy and practice is to ensure the safety of our children.” Forest Heights Park, which is maintained by Portland Parks and Recreation and is adjacent to Forest Park Elementary School, is open to the public during the day. Dr. Matier indicated that she is looking in to having signs posted around the school grounds notifying the public of this rule. We join Dr. Matier in thanking you for honoring the Portland Public School policy by staying off school grounds during school hours.
Forest Park Elementary Spring Carnival Date: Friday, June 10th Time: 5:00—8:00 pm Location: Forest Park Elementary This is a community event—everyone is invited to attend! Featuring •
DJ & Music
Pothole Repair: Who to Contact?
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Three bounce houses
The Portland Bureau of Transportation (PBOT) is responsible for filling potholes within the city. Most of the public streets in Forest Heights are within the City of Portland limits. When you see a pothole, please call it in to the:
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Petting farm
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Dunk tank
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Caricature pictures
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Darts
Pothole Hotline 503-823-BUMP (2867) Prepare to leave the following information: •
•
street location/address & nearest cross street or block address your name, phone number and email address.
Within 5 business days of a citizen report of a pothole, city transportation staff will contact you by phone if possible, investigate the pothole and initiate a work order. With 20 business days of a report, street paving crews will make pothole repairs.
The City of Portland also offers smart phone applications to interact with the city regarding problems like potholes, street lighting and plugged storm drains. iPhone users can download the free app from the iTunes app store. Android phone users can download the free app from the Android Marketplace. The application is called “PDX Reporter” on both platforms. Help with how to create a report can be found on the city’s website. If you observe street maintenance issues on a private street within Forest Heights, please call the FHHOA office at: 503-297-9400. NOTE Some of the streets in Forest Heights are in Washington County. To report a pothole on a public street in Washington County, call: 503-846-7623.
Food •
Pizzaschmizza
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Sandovals
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Bro-Dogs
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Hawaiian shaved ice
Tickets Advanced tickets will be sold starting June 6th, before and after school in the school lobby or at Starbucks. The cost of advanced tickets are 4 for $1.00. The cost of tickets at the event are 3 for $1.00. All bounce house participants must sign a waiver. For questions or volunteer opportunities, please contact: Julii Chin juliichin@hotmail.com Suzanne Tees Page 19
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BABYSITTING BABYSITTING SERVICE AVAILABLE! Hi, my name is Emilie Jackson, I'm 17 years old, and go to St. Mary's Academy. I've been babysitting for 6 years with all ages and love it! I'm available most week nights but especially weekends and willing to book on short notice. I have lots of references upon request, so give me a call! (503) 804-6616 NANNY/BABYSITTER I am a senior at Lincoln High School and am looking for a full time or part time nanny job this summer. I can drive the kids to their activities, I can help tutor, and I can care for all the responsibilities needed. I am a very active student. I played classic soccer for years and now run track and cross country as well as ski race. Please contact me if you are looking for a nanny this summer. Please call Ashley at 503-577-6951 BABYSITTER Responsible 12 year old girl available for babysitting in the Forest Heights Neighborhood. I am Red Cross-certified and love kids! Call Abby at 503-292-7744. FUN, RELIABLE, BABYSITTER AVAILABLE Responsible, caring and experienced with kids of all ages! Available on weeknights and weekends to babysit for families, during parties, etc. Call 503-291-1249 or email juliarenner@comcast.net BABYSITTER/PET SERVICES AVAILABLE Hi my name is Haley and I am a sophomore in high school. I am offering babysitting and pet services. I am Red Cross certified for CPR. I have been a camp counselor for ages 2-12, a mother’s helper for a 1 year old, and a sitter for school age children. My parents are available to drive me anywhere in the neighborhood. I love kids and am very patient with them! I currently charge $10 per hour. My pet services are as follows: Grooming and sitting. Grooming would be available at my own home where a grooming center is available. I currently charge $20 per full day/night sitting and grooming cost varies by size and coat length. References are available. Email: sunrisepetcare@hotmail.com or call 503.863.6673 BABYSITTER AVAILABLE High school student, Red Cross infant and toddler CPR certified, 3 years experience. Available to babysit Fridays and Saturdays year round. References available. Phone #: 503-841-5989 | Rate: $6/hr BABYSITTING SERVICE My name is Kendall and am 13 years old. I live in Forest Heights and an Red Cross CPR certified. My parents will drive me to residences in the neighborhood. I can be reached at 503-780-1890/503-706-0348, and charge $5.00/hr. EXPERIENCED NANNY Experienced nanny for many families in Forest Heights. Flexible availability. Reliable transportation and perfect driving record. Many references. Part time preferable. Phone Jocelyn at: 503-459-9443. BABYSITTING SERVICE Hi, I’m Trudi, and I’m a senior at Lincoln High School. I am CPR certified and live in Forest Heights. I do not have my driver’s license yet; however, I can be driven by my parents to and from babysitting jobs. I have been babysitting kids ages 1.5 to 11 years old for the past three years. I also work with preschoolers and kindergarteners in childcare at my church. I am available most weekends including Fridays. I currently charge $9/hour. By the way, I am allergic to dogs and cats so I am unable to babysit for pet owners. Please call me at 503841-5989 or email tastysunflowers@gmail.com. I would love to hear from you. BABYSITTING Hi, my name’s Katherine Renner. I am almost 12 and I am a Red Cross certified babysitter. I am looking for work as a mother’s helper or work as a babysitter for short periods of time. I am an A+ student, like lots of sports, and like arts and crafts. I love to read to and play with kids. I have letters of recommendation, and my rate is $5 per hour. My phone is 503.291.1249 or you can email me at katherine.m.renner@gmail.com
MUSIC DRUM LESSONS Accomplished, studious high school student (junior) offering lessons in home studio; 2 drum sets for teach and follow instruction and recording equipment to monitor progress. Qualifications: 5 years study, numerous instructors, rock & jazz emphasis. Drummer and percussionist in 3 bands: rock, jazz and orchestra. Performance venues include clubs, charity events & private engagements. Rate: $10/half hour; $18/hour. Email: jeremyk23@yahoo.com, 503.686.8020 www.youtube.com/watch?v=3C24mJgNyP8 PIANO TEACHER Excellent piano teacher with established business 8+ years in Forest Heights. I stress musical enjoyment while incorporating theory and advanced technique. I teach all types of music from the classics to popular to rock and roll. Great references from your neighbors. I make learning fun and I connect personally with my students. I travel to you! Please call Sarah at: 503.313.1216 or mail me: sarahwannell@hotmail.com.
PET/PLANT CARE PET CARE Responsible 12 year old girl who loves to care for your pets. I am available to walk, play with, feed or care for while you are at work or away. All types of animals, birds or fish are acceptable. Please call to schedule your pet care. Manoy 503-203-1787 PET CARE / PLANT WATERING Responsible 13 and 16 year old brothers will provide excellent nurture for your pets and plants. In the last five years we have cared for numerous neighborhood pets, watered an abundance of vegetation and provided many dogs a daily walk. References available. Call Reid or Trent at: 503-203-1491 TWO BROTHERS PET & PLANT SITTING We are 14 and 16 year old brothers who provide quality care for your pets and plants while you’re away. We have over five years of experience caring for pets and plants, indoors and out, from cats and cacti to dogs and dahlias. References available. Gabe and Hayden Henderson, call 503-296-9165 or email gabehend@gmail.com
RENTALS FOREST HEIGHTS CONDO FOR RENT Montara Loop condo for rent. 2 br 2 bath approx 1100 sq feet, all upgraded, ex model home, granite/hardware etc, $1595.00 a month negotiable. Call Sarah 503-332-7788 FOR RENT MT HOOD SKI CHALET- One for Vacation Rental - One For SALE by Owner. Sleeps 8. Three Bedroom, 2.5Bath, 2-car Garage, Pools, Spa, Deck. Hot Tub, Trails. Offers four seasons of fun: Ski, Hike, Fish, Boat, Climb. Located Right at Government Camp - Collins Lake Resort and Grand Lodges. Mention this FHHOA ad for FHHOA Member Rates and Book Direct with owner. Loren P Hotchkiss lorenhotchkiss9821@msn.com 503-291-9822 FOREST HEIGHTS HOUSE FOR RENT Beautiful home in Forest Heights with spectacular view and private setting! Open floor plan with a lot of light. 3500 sqft home, 4 bedrooms plus bonus room, 2.5 bath, 2 car garage, 2 big decks, lots of storage place and much more. 10 minutes from downtown. No smoking and no pets. Price: $2,900/month. For more information, please email: vitasanafitness@yahoo.com
TUTORING EXPERT COLLEGE ESSAY COACH As the acceptance rates of competitive colleges decline, it becomes essential for applicants to craft compelling admission essays. Experienced high school English teacher with Master’s Degree available to help plan, organize, revise, and edit admission and scholarship essays during evenings and/or weekends. Hourly fee. References supplied upon request. Please contact Ali at 503.867.6321 or allisonleighmarks@gmail.com CERTIFIED READING THERAPIST Private sessions to improve your child's reading skills. Call for information or to schedule an evaluation. Caren 503-327-8046 or cbcohen@hotmail.com TUTOR Fully certified teacher/MBA offers tutoring in English, Math, French, Homework Help & SAT Prep. Easy-going approach with technical excellence. Large Forest Heights clientele. Established business 8+ years. I travel to you. Please contact Sarah at: sarahwannell@hotmail.com
MISCELLANEOUS PLAY DATE 5 year old girl is looking for the girl of same age or older, to arrange regular play dates. Please call Julia at 503.332.8080 or email: juliabreda@comcast.net LANDSLIDE INSURANCE RECOMMENDATION? Looking to insure my home against landslide. Any recommendations? Please let me know. Petra at 503.456-0770. My name is Nick Grout and I am an 8th grader at West Sylvan. I am willing to wash cars, feed and bathe pets, house sit, and do yard work. I can come anytime during the week or weekend. Please contact me at 503.292.5440 or njgrout@gmail.com NEED SOME EXTRA HELP? My name is Nathan VanDomelen, 16 years old. I am a trustworthy and dedicated person. I honor all appointments and always do quality work. Here are a few things I can do: babysit, take care of plants, take care of pets (I am good with animals), pull weeds, and clean cars (inside and out.) Please note that I am not limited only to the jobs specified. I am available most weekdays, but prefer weekends due to school. Please don’t hesitate to call me (503) 206-6563. Thank you. FOREST HEIGHTS STORAGE UNITS FOR RENT Secure Storage/Parking Garages available in Forest Heights behind the Village Center. Sizes and Prices Vary. Contact 503-384-0333 if you’re interested. Professionally managed by C and R Real Estate Services, Co. LOOKING FOR EXTRA HELP? Hi! My name is Jake Marcy and I am 16 years old. I am dedicated to my sports and school. I am a lacrosse player for Lincoln High School and love my sport. I am very motivated and willing to work as hard as you need. I can help with yard work, computer work (Facebook, upload photos, etc.), animal watching and walking, babysitting, house sitting, lacrosse training. I am a hard worker so feel free to call me for any work you might have. Please feel free to call me at 503-297-5921 or 503-407-0846. BRIDGE ANYONE? Looking for intermediate level bridge players who would like to play for fun. Call Mike and Steph 503-244-1418 LOOKING TO SAVE MONEY ON YOUR MONTHLY BILLS? Do you have a home or cell phone, internet? Want a new security system? Equipment is free as is installation and monthly fees competitive. Do you have Comcast cable? Free equipment and installation of higher definition satellite fro Dish or Direct TV with huge savings on monthly bills. Discounts on your current PGE bill—sigh up now so you are ready when deregulation hits Oregon. Email to Janie at trumpacn@yahoo.com for a free no obligation cost analysis.
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Here’s a snapshot of FHHOA activities and meetings from May — June 11th. Print and keep this calendar in a handy spot so you’ll have access to what’s happening in your community.
MARK YOUR CALENDAR Sunday
Monday 1
Tuesday 2
Wednesday 3
Electronic and Safety, Streetscape Online Absentee & Transportation Ballots Due Committee 12:00 midnight 12:00 pm
Thursday 4
GoGreen Committee 6:00 pm
Friday
Saturday
5
6
7
12
13
14
Annual Homeowners Meeting 7:00 pm Community Activities Committee 12:00 pm
Forest Heights Board of Directors 6:00 pm
10
11
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
30
31
2
3
8
15
9
Budget & Finance Committee 6:00 pm
Architectural Review Committee 9:00 am
May 2011 1
GoGreen Committee 6:00 pm
June 2011
4
Spring Community Garage Sale 9:00 am to 3:00 pm
SIGN UP ONLINE www.fhhoa.com 5
6
7
Safety, Streetscape & Transportation Committee 12:00 pm
8
9
10
11
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