Photo by Kyrre Carlsen
Spring 2017 | Wingfield Springs Community Association Newsletter
Photo by Deanna Hearn
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“A forever reminder to pick up after your dog while enjoying the long walks with the family pet(s). It is the respectful thing to do anywhere you go.”
ell folks what a winter! Of all the states in the country this is probably the best to have spent this past winter. There will more than likely be snow on the tops for most of the spring months; who knows there might be skiing on July 4th. Keep an eye on Peavine before planting your tomatoes; snow on it can bring cool nights and even frost for a few hours. All you golfers out there time to trade in your shovel for a good set of clubs and go out there challenging yourselves on our neighbor courses. For your Board and service partners spring is the most active period of preparation for the summer months. The crews are in full motion repairing and cleaning up our various common area elements. As well we have a list of improvement projects in the hopper aimed at the continued uplifting of our tired looking landscape in several parts of the property. Our continuing focus is irrigation water. While this year should have plenty water available we will shift our focus on particle free and consistent pressure with our investments in this area. To some extent this work gets us more drought resistant for the future by increasing our efficiency (less clogging & better coverage). We will also tend to other aspects of our community “look appeal”. The main water feature letters, curbs and dog stations just to name a few will get a fresh coat of paint. A forever reminder to pick up after your dog while enjoying the long walks with the family pet(s). It is the respectful thing to do anywhere you go. We have some 20+ dog stations located throughout the community grounds; they are maintained regularly and feature double bag dispensers. Use them! If you feel there is a need in an area currently not covered drop us an email with the specific suggested location and we will review your request for a potential new installation. Our children will be out riding their bikes and just having fun with outdoor activities. Motorists must remain vigilant driving around the community. ALL our streets are zoned for 25 MPH speed limit unless posted otherwise (i.e. pedestrian crossings); this to protect all our residents so best all of us driving observe the limit. OK…let’s get on with it. Wishing you all a great spring and we’ll catch you next for the summer edition.Looking forward to meeting you on my dog walks or on the course and especially at our April 27 Board meeting.
Bob Denis
PRESIDENT, WINGFIELD SPRINGS COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION
Community
manager’s report
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Photo by Deanna Hearn
nother year has passed and wow! What a winter this season has brought us. I’m sure we are all eager to bask in the summer sun, light up the BBQ and enjoy the warmer weather. Well, before you know it, summer will be here! Thus, this is the perfect time to share some reminders of spring time items that come up within the community:
Wingfield Springs
Community Association Newsletter WSCA Board of Directors PRESIDENT VICE PRESIDENT SECRETARY TREASURER DIRECTOR
Bob Denis, calraisin04@gmail.com Lou Dauria, eplus@aol.com Marilyn Brainard, mebrain@att.net Ray Case, rcase275@gmail.com Richard Jones
Handy Phone Numbers & Information ASSOCIA SIERRA NORTH Telephone: (775) 626-7333 Dawn Osterode, Community Manager Direct Line: (775) 334-7424 Kenia Salazar, Community Assistant Direct Line: (775) 334-7426 Facsimile: (775) 626-7374 Website: www.wingfieldspringshoa.org Email: wfsservice@associasn.com Office Hours: 8 a.m.–5 p.m. Monday through Friday; the phone lines shut down at 4 p.m. on Friday. WINGFIELD SPRINGS COMMUNITY PATROL (775) 722-6270 Call 911 for emergency services; ambulance, fire, police. Red Hawk Swim & Fitness Center David’s Grill at Red Hawk Red Hawk Golf Club Washoe County Regional Animal Services Sparks Police Department (Non-emergency) Reno Green Landscaping Call immediately for water related issues.
(775) 626-8699 (775) 626-1000 (775) 626-4599 (775) 353-8900 (775) 353-2231 (775) 852-8952
Please note: Views expressed in Hawk Talk are not necessarily the opinions of WSCA, its board members or Associa Sierra North. The editor reserves the right to edit submitted articles for content and space constraints. Advertising in Hawk Talk is paid for by the individual advertisers. WSCA does not necessarily endorse or support any of the advertisers. Advertising monies collected are used to offset the printing costs of each Hawk Talk. Hawk Talk is supported in whole by advertising. Newsletter published by: Kathy Hess, Just Imagine Marketing and Design (775) 746-4138 | kathy@justimaginemktg.com
COURTESY NOTICE – A SEVERE WEED SEASON IS UPON US With moisture brings weeds and lots of them. Each Owner is responsible for keeping their property free and clear of weeds. Routine inspections will be done and notices shall be sent in line with the Association’s policies, which may result in monetary fines and/or abatement fees if left unresolved. Fines and abatement action is the Association’s last resort so, let’s work together to keep our community looking its best! Pre-emergent and regular care is important to defeating these nasty invaders! Our goal is obtain member resolution after the initial notice and avoid pursuing further action, unless necessary. COURTESY NOTICE – EXTERIOR PAINT, MAINTENANCE AND LANDSCAPE CARE Spring is the perfect time to survey the exterior of your property and address any needed building repairs such as: faded/chipped paint, roof maintenance, window trim touchup, fence staining and dead plant material replacement, just to name a few. Routine inspections will be done in the spring to notify members who have visible maintenance needs on their property which require action. We ask our members to proactively assess their home and address any needed care that may be required. EXTERIOR HOME IMPROVEMENTS? PRIOR DRC APPROVAL IS REQUIRED FIRST Any changes to the exterior of the property require prior written approval from the Design Review Committee BEFORE the project commences. The Association was designed with guidelines to ensure that properties are enhanced within the design scheme of the development and ensure property values for the community are not negatively impacted. There is an application form, fee and in some instances a construction deposit that applies. Please contact Community Management to discuss your proposed improvement project and we can direct you on what process is necessary to ensure you can proceed with your project. Please allow a few weeks for processing before you plan to start your project. TOW ZONE: NO PARKING IN CUL-DE-SACs The City of Sparks has designated the cul-de-sacs with center islands as NO PARKING ZONES. This is due to the requirement for emergency vehicle access in these areas. Vehicles are subject to tow, at the vehicle owner’s expense, if parked in these cul-de-sac areas. Please ensure your household and guests are informed. RULES AND REGULATIONS AMENDMENT 2017-01 Enclosed is a copy of the amendment to the Rules and Regulations pertaining to Section V. Vehicles, A. Definitions and Parking, Section 4. This amendment addresses the timeliness and conditions for the purpose of loading and unloading boats, trailers, campers, and recreational vehicles. Please review this amendment as it replaces the verbiage in the prior document mailed to the membership. The amendment is effective 30 days from the date of mailing to the members. Associa Sierra North – An Associa® Member Company
Dawn Osterode, CMCA®, AMS®, PCAM® Nevada Certified Supervising Community Manager Nevada Reserve Study Specialist
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Hawk Talk | Winter 2016
Spring Is Upon Us
IMPORTANT ALERTS
Article Courtesy of Ryan Harvey, Reno Green
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his winter northern Nevada has received a record breaking amount of moisture. Weeds will be prolific this spring and summer. In an effort to combat this we have performed pre-emergent throughout the property. We will also run supplemental crews to perform post emergent/string trimming/hand pulling as necessary during the growing season. As we approach the spring season you will begin to see increased activity on property. Irrigation is currently scheduled for turn on in the April/ May time frame. Along with this, inevitably, comes an increase of irrigation and maintenance issues to be addressed. To report any irrigation or maintenance issue please call (775) 852-8952. Please give as much description as possible regarding the issue, including: location or nearest address, time and day the issue was observed and the nature of the issue.
Please be aware that although Reno Green would like to respond to every irrigation call during the same business day there are many days where the volume of work that needs to be done is too great to be completed within that same day. Therefore; calls are prioritized based on the information that is received. That prioritization is as follows: PRIORITY 1: Any water that is reported as leaking non-stop is the highest priority. This would be an indication that we may have a mainline leaking. PRIORITY 2: Any irrigation line or valve boxes that is described as leaking/flooding only when the irrigation zone running. PRIORITY 3: Any irrigation zone that is not firing. Example, would be people describing the issue as grass or trees not getting water. PRIORITY 4: Any broken irrigation head or drip, with the exception of those on the main arteries. Example, would be people describing “geysers” or water shooting high in the air while the irrigation zone is running. Although this looks the most dramatic, it is the least worrisome and the least amount of water waste overall. *Please note that any call that we receive that just states water leaking is investigated promptly so that prioritization can be determined. There are many projects scheduled for the 2017 season. This spring we will be focusing on drip line replacements, installation of filters within the irrigation system, walking path repairs and irrigation clock replacements. We thank you for the opportunity to serve the Wingfield Spring Community and look forward to a great 2017 season.
Rick’s Observations WSCA MEMBERS This is my last input for the WSCA Hawk Talk after serving on the WSCA Board of Directors since April 2014. Carol and I have purchased another home and have sold our Wingfield Springs home that we have enjoyed for the last 11 years. Once our Wingfield Springs home closes escrow, I can no longer serve on the Board of Directors. Thank you to the entire Board for their professionalism and teamwork displayed during my tenure, and thanks to the WSCA for their support.
IRRIGATION Yes, it’s irrigation water time for the 2017 season. By the time you receive this edition of the Hawk Talk, Reno Green (Ryan Harvey and team) will have installed four new Amiad filters to help with our water quality from Red Hawk. They have, despite our winter weather, installed new drip lines, fixed heads and begun to determine the best in-line boosters to be installed to help distribute irrigation water to our higher elevation areas. This is being done in coordination with Red Hawk. We anticipate, after system wide testing to start irrigation this month or the beginning of May. Again, weather and other issues determine the exact time. Based on our strong winter, we will not have a problem Hawk Talk | Winter 2016
for our irrigation water needs, and fully intend to continue our plan to overcome the many issues created by the 2015 drought. This year constitutes the second year of recovery for our sod, plants, trees and shrubs. President Bob will continue to work with Red Hawk in order to receive improved irrigation water quality for the supply and distribution of our common area water needs.
WINGFIELD COVE (VILLAGE 30) The Village 30 project is progressing. Infrastructure has been laid. Utilities are underground. Streets have been cut and paved. Sidewalks and other infrastructure issues are being completed. Three models are being finalized: 1. Lot #69, floor plan 1, elevation C, 6583 Angels Orchard Drive 2. Lot #70, floor plan 6, elevation C, 6585 Angels Orchard Drive 3. Lot #71, floor plan 5, elevation B, 6587 Angels Orchard Drive In addition, six homes are in various stages of being built, along with several foundations on other lots. It is our understanding from Ms. Jackie Seeno that final preparations are being made with the City, and that marketing and pricing will be forthcoming during the spring. The broker for the builder is Mr. Mike Ellena of Dickson Realty, Vista Blvd., Sparks (775) 750-4695.
Richard “Rick” Jones
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WINGFIELD SPRINGS COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION
2017 MEETING CALENDAR
DATE
MEETING
TIME
LOCATION
April 6
Agenda Workshop/Executive Session
3:00 PM
Board Room
April 27
Board Meeting
6:00 PM
Members Lounge
May 11
Executive Session
5:00 PM
Board Room
June 29
Agenda Workshop/Executive Session
3:00 PM
Board Room
July 13
Executive Session
5:00 PM
Board Room
July 27
Board Meeting
6:00 PM
Members Lounge
August 10
Executive Session
5:00 PM
Board Room
September 14
Executive Session
5:00 PM
Board Room
October 5
Agenda Workshop/Executive Session
3:00 PM
Board Room
October 19
Board Meeting
6:00 PM
Members Lounge
November 9
Annual Members’ Meeting – Election, Budget Ratification, Organizational Meetings
6:00 PM
Members Lounge
Holiday Party
10 AM/2 PM
Event Center
December 9
This meeting calendar serves as notice pursuant to NRS 116.31083 for the scheduled meetings of the Board of Directors. Agendas for the Board Meetings shall be posted on the website not less than 10 days prior to the meeting. Members may also contact Community Management no sooner than 10 days prior to each scheduled meeting to obtain a copy of the Board Meeting agenda. Board Meeting agenda content may be modified up to the start of the Board Meeting due to specific circumstances under NRS 116.31083 (11) as it relates to occurrences that: “(a) could not have been reasonably foreseen; (b) affects the health, welfare and safety of the units’ owners or residents of the commoninterest community; (c) requires the immediate attention of, and possible action by, the executive board; and (d) makes it impracticable to comply with the provisions of sub-section 2 or 5.” The Board will disclose any such changes at the beginning of the Board/Annual Meeting, where applicable. Executive Session meeting agendas will not be published. Only those matters as described under NRS 116.31085 shall be discussed and acted upon
Advertise Your Business in Hawk Talk 90 day shelf life Quarterly newsletter Available online with links to all advertisers’ websites
For more information: Kathy Hess 775.746.4138 | kathy@justimaginemktg.com
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in executive session. These meetings are closed to the membership. Agenda Workshop agendas do not have a published agenda for distribution, as the intent of the workshop is to define the agenda for the next scheduled Board Meeting. This session is open to the membership for observation; however, members may not interact or provide questions/commentary during these periods. Agenda Workshops are reserved for board member discussion only. No action (vote) will be taken by the Board on any matter discussed or reviewed at a workshop. Hawk Talk newsletter articles and suggestions are due to Associa Sierra North at least four (4) weeks before each Board of Directors meeting. Each Hawk Talk will publish the remaining Board Meetings for the remainder of year, so please review each edition as dates may be modified, as needed. Hawk Talk publications will be postmarked and mailed at least ten (10) days before each Board Meeting.
WINGFIELD SPRINGS SEMI-ANNUAL COMMUNITY SPRING GARAGE SALE
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e sure to mark your calendars for the weekend of May 6th & 7th. Residents may set up in your yard and/or driveway from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. The Association will post one Community Garage Sale sign at the entrance of the Community at Wingfield Hills Road and Wingfield Springs Parkway, we will also place an ad in the “Neighborhoods” section of the Reno Gazette Journal. The Association is allowing individual signs to be placed at intersections and in front yards beginning Saturday morning. The signs can go up at 7:00 a.m. Saturday and should be removed no later than 7:00 p.m. on Sunday.
Hawk Talk | Winter 2016
You’ve Created an Estate Plan… Now What?
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typical comprehensive estate plan consists of a living trust, wills for each spouse, financial and healthcare powers of attorney, a property agreement, personal property memorandums, and other relevant documents. You’ve made the hard decisions and put it all down on paper, but the work isn’t done! An estate plan is like a garden: you need to consistently maintain it or it won’t fulfill its function. The first thing to do after the documents are signed is to write a “Legacy Letter.” The letter is meant to share your story, values and advice, and to explain why you made the estate planning decisions you made. Legacy Letters promote goodwill, context, and understanding among loved ones and decreases the likelihood of beneficiaries and others fighting over your assets when you pass away. Next, you should commit to an annual schedule of reviewing your plan. Maintaining a schedule will minimize the chances of forgetting to update your plan based on important events such as getting married or divorced, having children, moving to a different state, or buying new property. Finally, store your originals in a safe, centralized place and make copies—both digital and physical—to avoid any potential misplacement or damage to the originals. Be sure to either provide copies to family members, executors, trustees, and agents or tell them where they can receive information about your plan. Following these steps will help ensure your estate plan is up to date and implemented properly.
DON’T PLAN YOUR ESTATE. ESTABLISH YOUR LEGACY. Call or email for a FREE CONSULTATION ESTATE PLANNING Trusts, Wills, Powers of Attorney
PROBATE Asset distribution, beneficiary and executor representation
TRUST ADMINISTRATION Trustee representation, trust asset investment and distribution
CEDRIC W. ANDERSON, ESQ. canderson@woodburnandwedge.com
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|
775.688.3000
www.woodburnandwedge.com
Whether you need to start from scratch or work with me to review your existing estate plan, your initial consultation is free. Hawk Talk | Winter 2016
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Wingfield Springs Community Association Information Owners of Wingfield Springs Community Association,
ESI
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At the October 2016 meeting, the Board discussed a possible investment in technology that may include dashboard cameras, body cameras and adding bicycle patrols. No commitment or decision was made. Since the general discussion, ESI, with no funds from Wingfield Springs, equipped one of its cars with a dash cam and has purchased body cams for evaluation.
ome of you may have received an anonymous email regarding our meetings that included several comments that we felt needed to be clarified. We want to make sure that everyone has accurate and helpful information about our wonderful community. We encourage all members to attend our Board meetings. We are volunteers and neighbors and we work hard to make sure that the community is the best that it can be.
MEETING PROCESS At the present time, our meetings are opened with a reminder that we follow the Parliamentary rules. If you attended our October 2016 Board meeting, you may have observed several interruptions that prevented respectful dialogue. The Parliamentary rules include the following to ensure a meeting that allows all owners be treated with respect and have an opportunity to participate at the appropriate times: z Owners are given a 3 minute period at the beginning of the Board meeting to speak on any items that are on the agenda. Owners desiring to take advantage of this opportunity must first fill out the form for that purpose upon signing in. z Owners are given another period of 3 minutes at the end of the Board meeting to talk about any issue involving the community, whether the matter was on the agenda or not. z During the remainder of the Board meeting, only the Board members participate in order to conduct the business of the Association for which they were elected. In addition, NRS 203.090 provides that meetings should not be disrupted: “Every person who, without authority of law, shall willfully disturb any assembly or meeting not unlawful in its character, shall be guilty of a misdemeanor [1911 C&P § 342; RL § 6607; NCL § 10290]” Board meetings must be conducted in a civil manner by all present. As chair, it is the president’s responsibility to ensure calm and informational meetings intended to conduct the business of the corporation.
MEETING RELATED MATERIAL Pursuant to NRS 116 our obligation is to ensure the agenda is made available prior to the Board meeting. As noted with the meeting calendar that is published in the Hawk Talk, agendas will be posted on the Association’s website the Friday before each Board meeting. If you are unable to attend a meeting, please visit our website. We post the minutes and it will provide information on issues that are discussed at the meetings and action taken. The Board packet is not provided to members. However, the unaudited financials, presentation material and other nonconfidential documents are posted on our website after the meeting for owners to view.
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NAME CALLING When someone calls any homeowner or members of the Board any name, including “maniac”, we will consider the credibility and motivation of the source. The Board remains committed to stop this type of language and urges all homeowners to treat others with respect.
SERVICE ON THE BOARD The Board members are volunteers and are elected by the members of the Association. There is no limit as to the number of terms a director can run for re-election. One term is for two years. Longevity is actually an asset. There is no definition of “too long” for a community association director position.
SMALL PARKING LOT AT DAVID’S IS NOW RESTRICTED TO “PRIVATE CLUB MEMBERS ONLY” Any innuendo that the Board had anything to do with this is completely false. Red Hawk management made this decision on their own without consultation with any of the Board members. There is no conflict of interest for Board members to also be Red Hawk club members. There is no prohibition or conflict from any of our neighbors being Red Hawk club members. Being a Red Hawk club member is a choice that is completely independent from being a member of the Association.
INFORMATION FOR THE MEMBERSHIP There has never been any effort to limit any information for the membership. To the contrary, all information gets posted on the website after the meeting. Furthermore, we rely upon the professional and specialized knowledge of our community management firm on all our processes and procedures. We stay well within that guidance at all times. In addition, one of our Board members is an expert in all aspects of NRS 116. In fact, this director has attended and influenced several community association bills and laws that get reviewed/ implemented during Legislature sessions.
WE ENCOURAGE PARTICIPATION BY ATTENDING MEETINGS There is no question that the Board encourages homeowners to attend meetings. We would never be disrespectful if you are unable to do so which is why we post information on the website.
Hawk Talk | Winter 2016
WE NEVER WITHHOLD ASSOCIATION INFORMATION It is a false assertion that the Board withholds information about the Association. We are pleased that attendance at Board meetings has increased during the last 2–3 years. We advertise our meetings using banners at two of the main intersections of the community. We encourage owners to come to the meeting every chance we get. Any tip or idea to increase attendance is welcome. Further, Association records are posted on the website.
THE MONTHLY ASSESSMENT Remember, all Board members are also members of the Association. Any increase in the monthly assessment is also paid by the Board members. The recent increase was carefully considered. The justification for the increase was well presented during the October 2016 Board meeting and is available on the website. In a nutshell: z Our Reserve Study was presented for all to review. z It calls for significant monies over the next five years. z Without increased funding, our cash balances will be depleted or our community assets (tree maintenance and irrigation system replacements) would go unattended.
Personal Property Flood Insurance
This is the first increase in ten years. A ten dollars/month increase therefore amounts to $1/month/year as an overall increase. We remain well in line (middle of the pack) with the other communities of like size. In addition, a detailed project list was presented during the January 26, 2017 board meeting that provides additional information regarding the numerous actions that are being taken to enhance our community.
FINAL THOUGHTS FOR YOUR CONSIDERATION Your Board of Directors is made up of professionals with successful careers and covering a wide range of pertinent knowledge we bring to the table. For our community, we have accomplished a significant amount towards achieving the goal of “Most coveted community on the Valley floor”. When it comes to affairs that affect our community we approach them with passion, honesty and dedication. When abusive language or disrespectful action is directed to us as Board members, fellow homeowners and neighbors, we offer a reminder that we should all act with respect. This is the character we believe you want in a Board leadership team.
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s our area has experienced enormous amounts of snow/rainfall in a short period of time, causing sewers and drains to be overwhelmed, resulting in water back up and property damage. Loss from these events may be treated as a claim under a personal flood insurance policy. Flood insurance covers (basically,) damage to owned property caused by surface water, waves, overflow of any body of water or spray, whether or not driven by wind; or mudslide/mudflow; or waterborne material carried or otherwise moved by any of the above. Use due diligence in your selection process as different policies have different wording, conditions, exclusions, and cancellation policies. Research them carefully before selecting the policy that works best for you. Also, some policies have waiting periods, don’t delay. Contact your agent and ask if you might need to purchase a flood insurance policy for your property. They will explain what the policy will and will not cover as they review a quote with you.
WINGFIELD SPRINGS MEMBER NOTE:
Sample analysis of the lower sections of Wingfield Springs has found that most of the lower sections of the community are classified as Zone X flood zones. These areas have a 0.2% probability of flooding every year (also known as the “500-year floodplain”). Zone X are considered to be at moderate risk of flooding under the National Flood Insurance Program. To find out what level of flood risk your home is classified under, please contact your individual insurance agent.
Ron Wright MIKE MENATH INSURANCE
Hawk Talk | Winter 2016
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Call for Help Guide 9-1-1 EMERGENCY CATEGORY - PRIORITY 1 IN PROGRESS CRIME AGAINST PERSON OR PROPERTY AND NEEDING EMERGENCY PUBLIC SERVICES RESPONSE Life and/or safety threatening situations Fire or perceived fire (smoke) Gunshots heard Bodily injuries witnessed anywhere including in a vehicle collision Attack on a person from another person or an animal Break-in in progress into property or vehicle
SPARKS POLICE DEPARTMENT NON-EMERGENCY CATEGORY - 775 353 2231 - ALL NON PRIORITY 1 Occurred (no more IN PROGRESS) CRIME AGAINST PERSON OR PROPERTY Suspicious/noticed activity in or on or around owner property, vehicles, construction sites, public property - Mailboxes, yydrants, street & traffic lights, signs, storm drains, potentially dangerous situation Illegal dumping on open spaces or drainage components (drains, storm ditches, culverts, etc ...) Illegal fireworks going off House watch service (performed by volunteers)
COMMUNITY PATROL CATEGORY - ESI - 775 722 6270 Suspicious activity on or around common areas Irrigation components (clocks/valves/emitters/rotors), cameras, lights (Columns, Holiday, Landscape) Main features (water features, flag, bridges, trails, landscape: trees, shrubs, turf, curbing, rocks) Security cameras - monitor & report Identification & reporting of parking violations on our public streets Unauthorized solicitation CC&R/R&R violation monitoring & reporting Community specific checklist management i.e. lighting & others Irrigation components failure leading to evident water damage or severe waste Cooperative effort with Red Hawk patrol when invoked Domestic pets: lost or loose ... roaming the property Complimentary house watch program Resident assistance in general for all needs unidentified above Non-emergency questions of a general nature
RENO GREEN (RG) - 775 852 8952 Irrigation components failure leading to evident water damage or severe waste Common area damage from weather conditions - fallen trees, erosion of trail components Common area repair requests
ASSOCIA SIERRA NORTH (ASN) - 775 626 7333 Non-emergency questions of a general nature Common area repair requests Inquiries into assessment & fine account, governing documents & policy Design review committee application processing Non-compliance letter responses Community website access assistance
RED HAWK SECURITY - 775 750 8696 Suspicious activity on all golf course property including ALL Red Hawk buildings David’s, private club, fitness centers, golf maintenance buildings, driving range, pool, Purple Door Loose roaming dogs on the courses Suspicious malfunction of course irrigation leading to potentially severe water damage Page 8
Hawk Talk | Winter 2016
What’s Up in the 79th Legislative Session?
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eading this update, the session will have about eight weeks to go. Thirty-four potential Bill Draft Requests impacting community associations [as of late February] turned into five bills that are being closely tracked by CAI’s Legislative Action Committee. One potentially disruptive bill was withdrawn by its sponsor. The watch list, monitored in real time, resulted in an emergency response request on March 3 when LAC members commented on potential amending language on a bill that affected WSCA’s [and all others] ability to foreclose on delinquent properties. Part of the challenge is that BDRs give only a snapshot at what the intent is; you must wait until it turns into a bill to see the full content. Then it can proceed directly to committee hearings. It’s imperative to have a presence whenever bills begin the hearing process. Senate Bill 239 is an example of a very positive bill. Sen. Becky Harris introduced it in March. It clarifies what an association may do to cure abatement problems on individual lots or in condos. WSCA uses this opportunity to maintain some of our eyesores. LAC will be urging its passage. The experienced advocate for our causes, Garrett Gordon, Esq., is our nimble lookout as he goes from one hearing to the next. Lobbyists, as well as any person, can sign-in for each committee meeting indicating whether they are “For” or “Against” or “Want to Speak” on a particular bill. Each roster is kept for the record. Anyone can come down, sign-in, sit in the audience and not have to speak. Just your presence and how you rate a bill can make a difference. More conveniently, you can go to http://www.leg.state.nv.us and look down the right margin for Share Your Opinion on Bills to be taken to a page where, by entering your home address, your legislators will receive your comments on a pending bill. You do not need to know their names. Your address is not shared. You do need to know the bill’s number. You may not read about “our” issues or hear about them on the nightly news, but trust me that a lot is going on behind the scenes. We are fortunate that our advocate’s knowledge is welcomed by members of both major political parties. Almost all legislators respect his insights. Marilyn Brainard, SECRETARY, WSCA
Member, CAI NV Legislative Action Committee
Wingfield Springs Village 30 Update Hawk Talk | Winter 2016
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ESI Security Services
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s the much anticipated warmer weather approaches (Yes!) and folks begin the process of airing out their homes and working in their yards, ESI Security Services reminds all Wingfield Springs residents to harden their home against springtime crimes of opportunity. Some common sense tips to help prevent becoming a victim include: • When working in the backyard remember to secure the front door. Some burglars are brave and fast enough to enter your home and make off with valuables before you know they have even been there. • Pinning windows so that they open only far enough to allow air in but not far enough to allow a burglar to use them to gain entry to your home. Six inches is recommended. • Don’t leave garage doors open even for a few minutes. The visible items stored there make a very tempting target to someone passing by. • Don’t leave valuable items such as bicycles and lawn equipment in your yard, especially overnight. • Never allow someone you don’t know into your home. Common ruses used to gain entry are requests to use a phone or to get a drink of water. • During the spring weather, many people open windows or sliding glass doors while they are at home. Always remember to close and lock your windows and sliding doors when you go to bed or leave the house. • Install motion-activated lights in your front and backyards, so when someone approaches your home, the lights automatically come on, illuminating that person. • Put all ladders, lawn care equipment etc. back into a secure storage area after you use them. Don’t forget to secure your bicycles, golf clubs and any other recreational items when they are not in use. Always lock any storage unit or shed you have on your property. • Always remember to roll up your car windows, take any valuables out of your car, and lock your doors every time you exit your vehicle, even if your vehicle is parked in your driveway. • Don’t post any status updates about your vacation while you’re still on vacation. • Don’t post pictures while you’re on vacation. • Don’t tag fellow vacationers while you and they are still on vacation. • Don’t post upcoming travel plans on any social media platform at all. ESI House Watch Program: Whenever you are leaving your home for more than a short period please call ESI Security at (775) 722-6270 and ask to have your home put on our house watch list. While you’re away our security team will keep an eye on your home by performing several inspections each day until your return. Have fun!
e are excited about our upcoming addition to the Wingfield Springs Community, “Heartwood Estates”, which is a 123 lot single family residential subdivision that will be built in multiple phases. All improvements are now complete and our three-home model complex is currently
under construction, consisting of one single-story model, and 2 two-story models. Weather permitting, the grand opening is targeted for this upcoming April. Heartwood Estates has already been generating significant interest and a great response from many interested homebuyers. We look forward to seeing you at the upcoming grand opening of Heartwood Estates! For further information regarding sales and marketing, please contact Dickson Realty at (775) 750-4695.
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Wingfield Springs Security Report/Analysis 1st QTR 2017
TIPS & TRICKS TO AVOIDING LATE FEES Did you know that there are other methods to make your monthly assessment payments without receiving a late fee? • •
• • •
Make your payment by the due date (first of the month) not the end of the grace period. REMINDER: Assessments are now $65 per month for 2017. Mail your payment directly to the association’s bank at: Wingfield Springs Community Association P.O. Box 63515 Phoenix, AZ 85082-3515 Fill out a direct debit form to enroll in the automatic payment program by contacting community management to enroll. Enroll to make payments online at www.associasn.com. Sign up for BillPay with your preferred bank. Please include your account number in the memo field.
Please note that any association payments dropped off at this office are mailed to the association’s bank lockbox service. Your payment will post as of the date it is received by the bank. If you have any questions regarding payment methods, please contact us at 775-626-7333. We would be happy to assist. Page 10
Hawk Talk | Winter 2016
Housing in 2017 – What’s Next?
A
s you all know, because of the great job that EDAWN, the state and industrial developers have done attracting new companies, we have jobs and people moving into our community. Supply and demand will continue to increase prices until we see new construction start to catch up. Once the supply of new construction catches up, we will see prices start to flatten and perhaps fall which may entice the investors who purchased homes in the downturn to sell. However, this won’t be corrected in 2017. Currently, we have a 2 percent vacancy factor in apartment rentals, which is extremely low. Again, supply and demand will cause rental rates to continue to rise until the approximate 7,500 new “doors” currently approved become available. Mortgage rates have recently gone up. With predictions from the Federal Reserve Board, there will be more increases in 2017. Projections from most economists don’t expect the rates to exceed 5 percent in 2017 so rising prices will affect the down payment and credit scores needed to purchase a new home creating a new challenge in addition to the limited supply. Competition from cash sales will continue to be a challenge for buyers who must obtain a mortgage We at Dickson Realty predict there will be a modest gain in existing home sales in 2017. The National Association of Realtors (NAR) is predicting sales to increase a modest 2 percent, from $5.42MM to $5.52MM in 2017. NAR is also predicting median home prices to increase by 4 percent. We believe we will see median prices continue to increase at a higher rate in our community due to the supply and demand in the properties available for sale under
Your Red Hawk Neighbor. Your Red Hawk Realtor. Call your neighborhood expert to get the best price for your home.
$600,000. This will be coupled with job and population growth, and tempered by rising mortgage rates and possibly consumer confidence. The median home price has increased 42 percent over the last five years while the median household income gain has only increased 17 percent. This disparity will hurt affordability and is not sustainable over the long term. We are starting to see some California markets (e.g. San Jose) slide into a negative growth category because of this disparity, but we don’t believe we are there yet in our market. It is critically important for projects like West 2nd District, the Park Lane project, the Summit Apartments, Kiley Ranch and Verdi to be funded and built as quickly as possible, along with the many fine builders creating affordable housing and apartments in northern Nevada. Finally, we do not believe we are in a housing bubble. Rising prices were only one of many factors that created the bubble of 2006- 2011. We need to remain focused on the availability of affordable housing, the attraction of people to our area to supply the workforce needed to fill the jobs that are being created (who must have places to live), and the training and education to perform the jobs needed in this new economy. On a more local note, watch for the Grand Opening celebration and opening of the models at Heartwood Estates at the end of April. I hope to see you all there! s Beth Cooney—Dickson Realty 775-544-6026 | beth.cooney@me.com
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5050 Vista Blvd., Suite 101 Sparks, NV 89436
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Hawk Talk | Winter 2016
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Wingfield Springs Community Association
PRSRT STD U.S. POSTAGE PAID RENO, NV PERMIT NO. 200
c/o Associa Sierra North
10509 Professional Circle, Ste. 200 Reno, NV 89521
CALENDAR OF EVENTS DOWNTOWN RENO WINE WALK April 15 | 2–5 p.m. The Riverwalk District Join us every third Saturday of the month from 2–5 p.m. when the Riverwalk Merchants Association hosts the popular Wine Walk along the Truckee River and neighboring streets in downtown Reno. renoriver.org/features/wine-walk
RENO STREET FOOD
RENO EARTH DAY 2017 April 23
SPRING WINGS BIRD FESTIVAL May 19–20 Lahontan Valley Wetlands Spring Wings is a celebration of birding in and around Fallon, the Lahontan Valley Wetlands, and Stillwater Wildlife Refuge. The area lies on the Pacific Flyway and is home to hundreds of species of birds. springwings.org; (775) 666-8031
| 11 a.m.–6 p.m. Idlewild Park Twenty acres of Idlewid Park transform into over 350 exhibits and activities for all ages. Arts & crafts, sustainability businesses and resources and local non-profit organizations. Activities include four stages of entertainment, specialty foods, local breweries, workshops, rallies, games and prizes. The theme for 2017: The Natural World, Clean and Green Technologies and Many Cultures. visitrenotahoe.com; (775) 762-0651
DOWNTOWN RIVER RUN April 30
May 19 | 5–9 p.m. Idlewild Park Reno Street Food is the original weekly gourmet street food event in Reno, produced by locals. Party in the Park at Idlewild Park features over 30 gourmet food, craft dessert, beer, wine and mixed drink vendors to serve you. Live music! visitrenotahoe.com; (775) 825-2665
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| 7 a.m.–2 p.m.
Reno Arch in Downtown Reno You will truly love the scenic course laid out for you! The course is fairly level and fast, with an exceptional jump-start in the last 10k of the marathon. Every finisher will be awarded with a medal and everyone can enjoy the post-race expo, full of free food, drinks & snacks. New in 2017 is the Marathon 26.2 Relay (2-person teams). Its perfect for two friends who aren’t ready to run a full marathon on their own but want to experience the full Marathon course! downtownriverrun.com; (775)742-2840
RENO SCULPTURE FEST May 12–14 ReTrac Plaza, downtown Reno Reno’s most effective and prolific community sculptors and builders create multiple interactive pieces that are showcased in downtown Reno, on the ReTrac Plaza (between the Eldorado Hotel and Whitney Peak) next to the famous Reno arch. There will be a variety of music performances, including free concerts on the ReTRAC main stage (downtown Reno). After dark, the celebration continues with ticketed late-night performances at some of Reno›s favorite venues and bars. The complete schedule of the daily music performers and ticket information will be available in March. renosculpturefest.com
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