Keys Breeze May 2024

RESPONSIBLE RECREATION –INVASIVE SPECIES PREVENTION PRACTICES

PG. 14-15

TKPOA THEN AND NOW

PG. 18-19

FIREWISE – WHAT’S NEXT

PG. 22-26

Tahoe Keys Property Owners Association

LET ME GIVE YOU A COMPLIMENTARY MARKET ANALYSIS TODAY

2157 Balboa | $6,998,000

This stunning waterfront home offers unparalleled luxury living with its breathtaking views, convenient lake access, and meticulous craftsmanship. Featuring an expansive great room with soaring ceilings and panoramic vistas, a gourmet kitchen equipped with top-of-the-line appliances, and five spacious bedrooms, each ensuite, this residence provides comfort and elegance. Outside, a large deck invites al fresco dining and relaxation, while direct lake access offers opportunities for boating and water sports. Located in the prestigious Tahoe Keys community, residents can enjoy exclusive access to amenities including private beaches, marinas, pools, and tennis courts.

1747 Venice | $1,798,000

Priceless setting in Tahoe Keys with views of Mt. Tallac, Heavenly Valley and the Wildlife Sanctuary Meadow. This updated 5 bedroom waterfront lodge has a large boat dock and parklike yard with hot tub and room for popular outdoor games. The home has a bonus third level providing that extra space for guests and entertaining. It comes furnished and ready to enjoy.

489 Tahoe Keys Blvd. #73 | $925,000

This exclusive point unit waterfront townhouse located in the community of Tahoe Keys is a masterpiece of design and heritage, blending luxurious hvmg with unique architectural finds. Enjoy such artisan touches as150 year old reclaimed heart pine wood floors, iron balusters from London, claw foot tubs and wool carpeting truly a testament to fine living.

555 Tahoe Keys Blvd. #13 | $890,000

Exclusive 3-bedroom, 2.5 bathroom townhouse is located in the sought after Tahoe Keys community

This point unit, set uniquely with unobstructed, wide water views boasts generous space and inspiring vistas; stylish new windows; new wood laminate flooring; and an upbeat modernized kitchen equipped with new faucets. This townhouse captures the essence of Tahoe Keys living at its finest.

ASSESSMENT COLLECTIONS UPDATE

Hello Tahoe Keys Residents!

This a continued friendly reminder that assessment collections, including lockbox information, changed as of April 1st, 2023. The information needed to set up payments can be found below and is listed on your quarterly statement.

Payment options are:

1. ClickPay – FirstService Residential’s online payment service provider. You can access ClickPay by visiting https://login.clickpay.com/ firstservice. Please note that ClickPay charges a fee for credit card and debit card payments.

2.       Bill Pay – Your bank’s bill pay service. If using this service, please enter the following: name, address, and include your 8-digit Account Number on your bank’s website when using its bill pay service:

Tahoe Keys Property Owners Association c/o FirstService Residential PO Box 30354, Tampa, FL 33630

Please note that your account number with FirstService is different from your previous TKPOA account number. Please contact the customer care center or the on-site office if you are unsure of what your account number is.

3.       Paper Check – Mail a Check to the address above. Include your FirstService remit slip from your monthly statement and your 8-digit FirstService/TKPOA account number.

con'd on page 27

2023–2024 BOARD OF DIRECTORS

The Keys Breeze is the official monthly publication of the Tahoe Keys Property Owners Association (TKPOA), which is located at 356 Ala Wai Blvd., South Lake Tahoe, CA 96150. Each membership parcel receives one subscription to Keys Breeze mailed to a domestic address. Cost to produce and distribute this publication is offset by advertising revenues and budgeted funds. The inclusion of advertising in this publication does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation by the Tahoe Keys Property Owners Association or its Board of Directors of the projects, services or views contained therein.

contact Kathy Hess-Slocum at Just Imagine Marketing and Design at (775) 846-5656, kathy@justimaginemktg.com.

356 Ala Wai Boulevard South Lake Tahoe, CA 96150 (530) 542-6444 p (530) 541-2521 f tkpoa.com

ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICE HOURS 8:30 am to 4:30 pm, Mon–Fri 10:00 am to 2: 00 pm, Sat & Sun

TAHOE KEYS PROPERTY OWNERS ASSOCIATION

Hallie Kirkingburg General Manager, ext. 224

Heather Blumenthal Operations Manager, Ext. 228

Linda Callahan Architectural Control Dept. Manager, Ext. 239 John Cefalu Facilities Director, Ext. 226

Security (530) 545-0847

Water Company (530) 318-4268

Kristine Lebo

Water Quality Manager, Ext. 241

Front Desk Attendant Ext. 221

Water Quality Ext. 275

Dave Peterson, PRESIDENT

Peter Grant, VICE PRESIDENT

Sabine Litten, SECRETARY

Jim Siegfried, TREASURER

Joby Cefalu, DIRECTOR

Pete Wolcott, DIRECTOR

Bryan Welsh, DIRECTOR

THE IMPORTANCE OF VALUES-BASED ESTATE PLANNING

Our society is currently in the midst of the largest generational transfer of wealth in history, yet over 60% of our citizens do not have a will. Estate planning is a crucial task that often gets pushed to the back burner in the commotion of everyday life. However, neglecting to create a comprehensive estate plan may lead to significant consequences for both you and your loved ones.

While many people recognize the importance of estate planning in terms of financial and legal matters, it's equally important to consider the values that you wish to uphold and pass on to future generations. This is where a values-based estate planning service comes into play.

Values-based estate planning goes beyond the traditional focus on financial assets and legal documents. It integrates your personal values, beliefs, and goals into your estate plan. This approach ensures that your legacy reflects not only your material wealth but also the principles that are important to you.

One of the primary benefits of values-based estate planning is that it allows you to align your financial and philanthropic goals with your deeply held beliefs. Along with providing for loved ones, you may be motivated by charitable giving. A values-based approach ensures that your estate plan reflects these priorities.

Clearly articulating your values and intentions in your estate plan minimizes potential family conflicts and misunderstandings, and preserves family unity. Your estate plan is an opportunity to instill important lessons, traditions, and principles for future generations. For example, some may wish to incorporate ongoing support for charitable causes reflective of family values in their estate planning.

Additionally, values-based estate planning may offer significant tax benefits. Strategic planning allows you to minimize estate taxes and maximize the amount of wealth transferred to heirs and charitable causes.

Barton Health Foundation has partnered with Thompson & Associates, a nationally recognized values-based estate planning service, to assist you in crafting a personal estate plan that paints far more than your financial picture. This planning process is free and 100% confidential. There is no obligation. Thompson & Associates does not manage money, or provide legal or accounting services. No products are sold, nor will funds be solicited.

The Barton Health Foundation invites you to prioritize values-based estate planning this year, providing peace of mind for yourself and your loved ones. With an estate plan, your wishes will be honored, assets protected, and tax liabilities minimized. Start planning now, so you can leave a meaningful legacy that reflects your values and makes a positive impact on future generations.

TKPOA MAY 2024 CALENDAR + BEYOND

2024

BOARD ACTIONS SUMMARY

By Heather Blumenthal, Operations Manager

APRIL 30TH – BOARD OF DIRECTORS EXECUTIVE

SESSION

BOARD ACTIONS

• Reviewed 0 Personnel Matters

• Reviewed 2 Disciplinary Matters

• Reviewed 1 Contracts

• Reviewed 12 Legal Matters

APRIL 30TH – BOARD OF DIRECTORS OPEN SESSIONS

BOARD ACTIONS

• Approved the RadPros Proposal for management and licensing services for uranium treatment operations of the water company for $64,904.58 to be funded from Water Company Reserves.

• Approved a one-year contract with RadPros for a Radiation Safety Officer support for a cost of $9,934 per quarter.

• Authorized Jenn Lukins and Board President Dave Peterson to finalize and send out the Tahoe Keys Water Company Replacement Well and Storage Tank Project Request for Proposal.

• Approved the TetraSolv Contract for Well Resin Disposal for $94,090 plus a 15% contingency for a total amount of $108,200 to be funded from Water Company Reserves.

• Approved Cassidy Coatings to complete the repair of the outdoor pool deck and apply deck coating for a cost of $16,410 to be funded from Common Reserve Account 19693 “Pool Deck.”

• Authorized the purchase of a 7x14 tandem axel trailer, at a cost of $8,231.75 and 6x12 cargo trailer, at a cost of

$5,184.68 to be funded from Common Reserve account 19912TK “Landscape Equipment.”

• Authorized the trade in of the current backhoe loader and the purchase of a new Case 580SV backhoe loader at a net cost of approximately $122,791 to be funded equally from Common Reserve Account 19527TK and Water Company Reserve Account 19527WC.

• Authorized a waiver of the commercial automobile liability coverage requirement for Lifted Tree Root Service.

• Approved the 2024 Aquatic Harvesting Inc. proposal not to exceed $168,000 to be funded from Water Quality operating account 18431WQ “Outside Services.”

• Approved changing the TKPOA Broker of Record to Risk Strategies.

• Adopted the revised 2024 TKPOA Fee and Fine Schedule.

• Adopted the proposed changes to Architectural Control Rules Sections 2.02, 4.10, 9.02, 9A, 10.07, 10.09, 10.10, 12.03, 15.02, 15.04, and 15.09.

• Approved Pro Exteriors for the Islanders Siding Project for a cost of $1,232,140.45 to be funded from the Islanders 3 Reserve Account 19869 “Siding Reserve”.

• Directed Staff to draft a letter and survey for Islanders 3 members to determine whether they want to utilize a fire backing with the siding material for their Siding Project with the additional cost to be initially funded from the Islanders 3 Reserves or to continue with the siding as currently selected. A minimum of 17 “For” responses are required to move forward with changing to firebacking and owners will be provided an option for a special assessment vote to replenish the reserve funds used for the additional cost.

• Approved Lake Tallac Easement Resolution #LTAUA-16.

PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE

By Dave Peterson

Bulkheads. Nothing new here from what I reported last month, except that the Islanders I bulkhead/ retaining wall is looking bad after the winter. Something will need to be done soon. Staff will have a recommendation before the month is out.

Drinking Water. The uranium treatment systems on wells 2 and 3 require changeout of the resin media. New media will cost $200k, but cost of disposal of the old media was still in the air as of my last update. Our contractor has determined that levels of uranium are high enough to warrant disposal in a nuclear waste facility in Texas. Disposal will cost $100k. But wait, there’s more! We also need to obtain a nuclear waste handling license, which will cost yet another $50k, and we need to hire a company to handle quarterly monitoring and reporting; another $40k for one year. The consultant will help us schedule media changeout before we reach hazardous concentrations next time, which will save money there. But we clearly need to find a cheaper way to supply water; one that minimizes or completely avoids having to treat for uranium. At the April meeting, the board approved having staff solicit engineering proposals to explore a new well, storage tank, and connecting pipelines.

We also received a heads-up from staff that a new Federal lead and copper rule requirement is coming to a head. We (and all other public water systems) are required to determine whether any of the service lines in our system contain lead. Service lines are the pipes that connect each

house or townhouse complex to the distribution main in the street. Lead pipes were phased out many decades ago, so lead content is unlikely in our relatively young community. It is a bigger problem in the legacy cities of the eastern US. Nevertheless, the regulation requires that we inventory EVERY service connection and replace any that are lead. The initial inventory is due in October. There are likely to be unknowns at that time, so followup work will be required to eliminate the unknowns. This will likely require digging some of them up, which means digging a hole in people’s front yards. We’ll know more in October, and we’ll communicate with you about what we find.

Waterways. The third year of the CMT is spooling up, and weed harvesting will begin in June. We did get a setback, however. Recall that prior to year 1 of the CMT, we had to get permits from TRPA and the Lahontan Regional Water Quality Control Board? Well, Sierra Club and California Sport Protection Alliance sued Lahontan at that time for granting the permit to test herbicides. The court process is slow, but the Superior Court just found in favor of the plaintiffs on several points. It would seem moot at this point, since we already applied the herbicides in year 1 and have no plans to apply any more during this CMT. The Waterways Committee, staff, and consultants are working on it, but a path to resolution is not clear as of this writing. Lahontan is in the driver’s seat, and we are just the kids in the back seat trying to use our charm and influence.

Islanders III Siding. The members of Islanders III passed a special assessment on themselves to replace the wood

shake mansards and siding on their buildings with a more attractive and fire wise set of products. Because the project will result in a new look, the cove members also had to separately approve the architectural change (per CC&Rs), which they did. The project will be done this summer. The board approved the construction contract at the April meeting, and also asked for a subsequent vote/poll of the cove members to see if they would be interested in paying extra for a change order to add a fire barrier underlayment. The barrier would greatly improve the fire performance of the siding, but even without it, it will be far better than the wood shakes. The project is going to be very nice!

May is here, and we have had some wonderfully warm days. But today it is snowing! Arrrgh, go away winter! Many of us have started up our irrigation systems, and I would like to remind you that we still have the same watering schedule as last year. The watering schedule is needed to even out the overall TKPOA water demands so that our throttled-down water sources can handle the load. I’d encourage you to also consider converting your landscape to a low-water-use layout, as many members have been doing over the last 3 years. By doing so we use less water (which stretches the life of the uranium treatment systems), we pay for less power at the wells, and you incur less lawn maintenance. And soon, we will be required by the state to install water meters and charge based on a metered rate, so lower water use means a lower bill when that happens. Please give it some thought.

RESPONSIBLE RECREATION: INVASIVE SPECIES PREVENTION PRACTICES

By: Water Quality Department

Warmer weather is in the forecast and that means we will all soon be getting out on the water to enjoy the many recreational activities around Lake Tahoe! Most boat owners know it is a Tahoe Regional Planning Agency (TRPA) requirement to get a boat inspection at the designated stations before launching in Lake Tahoe. However, boats are not the only culprits for introducing invasive species into the area. Non-motorized equipment such as kayaks, canoes, paddle boards, towables, inflatables, mooring lines, wetsuits, and waiters can harbor and transport invasive species from one waterbody to another. Therefore, it is equally vital to ensure that non-motorized equipment undergoes thorough scrutiny and decontamination before use in Tahoe.

Last year, a new threat, the New Zealand mudsnail, was discovered around South Lake Tahoe and it will take diligence on everyone’s part to ensure its spread is contained and the infestation is minimized.

The New Zealand mudsnail is a highly adaptable invasive species that can be the size of a grain of sand! From rivers to lakes, from saltwater to freshwater, it thrives in diverse conditions. Its versatility allows it to establish footholds anywhere - from mud and sand to rocks and vegetative mats, like algae. It has even been found in Lake Tahoe's depths, reaching as deep as 150 feet.

As you prepare to bring kayaks, canoes, stand-up paddleboards (SUPs), wetsuits, waiters, towables, inflatables, mooring lines and more into Lake Tahoe, it is imperative to adopt proactive measures. Before entering the water and upon leaving, thoroughly clean all equipment and footwear to remove any potential hitchhikers, including mud, algae, and debris. Pay close attention to crevices and folds where invasive species may hide. This simple step significantly reduces the risk of introducing harmful species into Lake Tahoe or transporting species from Tahoe into one of the many other lakes around the basin.

Please see below the for the Tahoe Invasive Species Program’s Prevention guide, which can be found on www. tahoeboatinspections.com:

1. Clean all surfaces that touch water; dispose of vegetation, mud, and sand; remove any contaminants.

a. Clean non-motorized watercraft by inspecting your equipment thoroughly and removing all dirt, plants and other material from your rudder, hull, cockpit, and gear. If you are coming from a region with infested waterbodies or find AIS during your inspection, wash with pressurized hot water if available, away from any water source.

2. Drain water from the bilge; empty ballast tanks, live wells, and sea strainers; lower the outdrive to drain ALL water from intakes.

a. Drain the water from your hatches, cockpits, boards, and gear on land before you leave the immediate area. Open all hatches or plugs, turn the boat upside down and rest on an open hatch to incline the watercraft and drain it.

3. Dry all compartments; dry life jackets, ropes, and toys, your watercraft and gear, and store them in

a dry place where aquatic invaders cannot survive. Inspect your watercraft and gear for moisture before launching. In cool environments, adult quagga mussels can survive out of water for as long as 30 days! New Zealand mudsnail can survive even longer if they are kept in a cool, moist location.

a. To decontaminate waders, wetsuits, and other equipment:

ii. Freeze (4 hours at 36°F)

iii. Heat (10 minutes in water at 120°F)

iv. Bleach (10 minutes in 2.2 TBS of household bleach/gallon of water)

Beginning May 27th, there will be three boating inspection stations that will prioritize and quickly decontaminate kayaks, paddleboards, canoes, and any other nonmotorized vessels for a quick turnaround to get you back enjoying the water responsibly. To find locations, hours of operation and more information, visit Tahoe Boat Inspections at:

In addition, the TKPOA Waterways Department encourages everyone to join the Tahoe Keeper’s to become a steward for responsible recreation in the Basin. TKPOA also hosts the Eyes on the Lake training through the League to Save Lake Tahoe’s Citizen Science Program where you can learn to identify and report aquatic invasive plants around Lake Tahoe. For all information about prevention steps and joining these programs, you can scan the QR codes below to access Tahoe Boat Inspections: Tahoe Keepers and Keep Tahoe Blue Eyes on the Lake below:

Thank you to everyone for your participation in responsible recreation around Lake Tahoe. Being a good steward and taking care of the Lake by following the simple principle of clean, drain, and dry can prevent the spread of AIS and keep all waterbodies, Lake Tahoe, and the other lakes around the basin, free and clear for use.

Adopted Revised 2024 Fee and Fine Schedule and Fine Policy

The Board adopted the revised 2024 Fee and Fine Schedule and Fine Policy at the April 30th, 2024, Regular Board of Directors Meeting. These changes were noticed for a 28-Day Membership Review Period on the TKPOA Website, www.tkpoa.com, under Documents>>Rules & Procedures>>Rule Change Notifications on March 29th, 2024.

TAHOE KEYS PROPERTY OWNERS ASSOCIATION

2024 Security Fine Schedule

TKPOA Fine Policy: A warning letter will be mailed to the homeowner for first violations in instances of nuisance and boating violations. Parking tags placed on vehicle, trailer, RV are considered warning notices for parking violations. A disciplinary hearing will then be scheduled with the Board of Directors for any additional violations after the first violation. Illegal rental and commercial business activity violations will result in an automatic hearing with the Board of Directors, no warning letter will be sent. Hearings may result in fines and/or suspension of amenity access passes for confirmed violations. Parking fines are assessed per each 7 day period past the initial parking grace period. All fines are assessed per violation (i.e. 2 violations = 2 fines). Disciplinary actions and fine amounts are determined at the discreation of the Board.

TKPOA THEN AND NOW

By Dave Peterson, Board President

Time flies, but only when looking back. In real time, depending on intensity, it can drag painfully slowly. A lot has changed over the last 4 years, and I thought it would be good to compare where we are now to where we were in 2020 when I was first elected. In no particular order:

ADMINISTRATION

Then: TKPOA had an employment contract with our GM, and directly employed all other staff. The board had its hands in all manner of employee contracting and HR issues, and recruiting was a particularly vexing problem for us.

Now: We contract with a management company, First Service Residential. We no longer have a single TKPOA employee; FSR handles all HR issues, recruiting, retention, and training. The board can request staff changes, and FSR makes it happen. We are now fully staffed, and staff performance and responsiveness are far better than 2020.

BOARD

Then: Board meeting packets were often 700 pages or more, and between executive session and the open meeting, meeting days typically ran 12 hours or longer. Board meeting agendas were pages and pages of simple updates with important items in random locations. Often, members got burned out and went home before their item came up. We had a raft of big issues in front of us that we just couldn’t seem to solve, so we just kept pushing them out in front of us; things such as the long-running lawsuit with Tahoe Keys Marina, the impending need to vacate our corporate yard, compliance with the TRPA Shorezone Plan, our decaying harvesting program, and our decaying infrastructure. In fairness, the uranium problem which hit shortly after I took office in September 2020 pretty much sucked all the air out of the room. But we still needed to advance other priorities, and we didn’t.

Committees did a lot of heavy lifting, and it was very confusing where decision authority rested: with the committee, or the board.

Now: Board meetings and packets are much thinner, and we focus on the key business at hand. Packets have been trimmed, and board meeting days now run closer to 4-5 hours. Our staff is working the issues between meetings, and bringing solutions for the board to act on. And we’re crossing things off the list. We resolved the Marina lawsuit, corporate yard relocation, and TRPA moorings MOU, upgraded our harvesting program to full strength, and we are tackling the massive bulkhead problem. We are also finally confronting our critical fiscal reserves shortfall, which had been a festering problem for years.

We still have some very important committees, and we

probably rely too much on their hard work and excessive volunteer hours. But that is improving. Finance and ACC are still grinding out their important work, and the new Townhome Oversight Committee is working hard with staff to get the cove budgets and reserve funding in order and important reserve projects launched. Unfortunately, we have found that reserve balances for many coves were critically low. So the TOC has been facilitating special assessment votes to restore those budgets to health.

LAWSUITS

Then: Our executive session meetings were weighed down by upwards of a dozen lawsuits at any given time. More were coming all the time, and we did not seem to cross many off the list. And we had several employee related lawsuits ongoing, which were entirely avoidable.

Now: We have resolved nearly all of our lawsuits, and are doing a better job of resolving problems before they become lawsuits. Hallie is a great communicator and problem solver, and FSR’s attention to staff management has created a much more healthy and productive work environment. If you encounter our staff during your days here, you know what I am talking about. Attitudes are great, and they get work done!

DRINKING WATER

Then: Shortly after I took office in 2020, we were told by staff that uranium had risen to levels exceeding the state’s standards in wells 2 and 3, and if samples over 4 consecutive quarters continued that way, we would have to shut them down or install treatment. This was the main crisis that consumed the board for my first two years. We formed a member committee to hire a consultant and chart a course. They did a great job, but there were severe impacts to all of us. We had to place wells 2 and 3 on standby, and function on well 1 alone. And well 1 suffered major mechanical problems and needed repairs! During the summer of 2021 we instituted a landscape watering ban. Remember that? Then, right after July 4th holiday, the Tamarack fire started up near Markleeville, and about a month later, the Caldor fire. That was one miserable summer! Nevertheless, we constructed partial temporary uranium treatment systems at wells 2 and 3, and got them licensed to operate in the fall. We have been operating those wells at the reduced capacity dictated by the treatment systems ever since. Each fall we have had to construct temporary weather enclosures, and each spring we have removed them. We also constructed emergency interties with both Lukins Brothers Water Company on 15th St., and STPUD on Keys Blvd. These improvements meant we were able to allow landscape watering starting summer of 2022, albeit using a watering schedule to spread the demand load so that our wells can handle it. So far it has been working well, but it is still a temporary solution.

Now: A subcommittee of the board has been working with STPUD to explore consolidation. I have been out of that loop due to a conflict of interest (I currently serve as STPUD’s Board President until this fall). But I understand that the consolidation process is a years-long process, if it goes forward at all. Meantime, the board just approved spending $350k to change out the uranium treatment system media after about 2.5 years of operation. Expensive! The board is also moving forward with plans for a new well and storage tank. The project will probably also require pipeline upgrades, but that will be an engineering decision. The upgrades will be useful even if we do consolidate with STPUD.

Kudos go out to Jennifer Lukins, who has been managing our water company for the last couple of years under a contract arrangement. She and our staff have been doing a great job of keeping the water on and bringing needed projects to the board before they become emergencies!

WATERWAYS

Then: We were working with TRPA, the League to Save Lake Tahoe, and Lahontan Regional Water Quality Control Board to design the Control Methods Test (CMT) and get it permitted. That was quite an undertaking that had been in motion for several years before I was elected. As it proceeded toward a permit, however, it became apparent that TRPA’s enthusiasm to proceed was tempered by the nagging need to resolve the Keys’ compliance with their Shorezone Plan first. So the board accelerated negotiations, culminating in the Moorings MOU. That cleared the way for the TRPA permit for the CMT. Members approved the first of 3 special assessments, and the CMT began in the summer of 2022.

Planning for the CMT had occupied much of the staff, Water Quality Committee (now Waterways Committee), and board’s attention for the last decade or so, and we allowed our harvesting equipment to decay. The thought was that we’d be out of the harvesting business soon, so why invest? Also, it became harder and harder to recruit quality seasonal help to work the harvesting operation. And to make matters worse, our harvested weeds handling relied on using our corporate yard for drying, which was on a closure timeline.

Now: We are in the third and final year of the CMT, thanks to several affirmative member votes for special assessments, Federal appropriations to keep TRPAs portion of the project funded, and lesser, but very important financial contributions from the League. We have begun planning for the long-term management program based on what we’ve learned in the CMT. The long-term plan will require a new environmental process and new permits, which will be a heavy lift: financially, publicly, and politically, and for the regulators. We’ll no doubt get sued along the way, so there will be legal costs and delays. But we continue against this current because it is critical for the Keys and the lake. We’ve got to manage this problem going forward (not solve, manage).

Harvesting has been re-energized under Kristine Lebo and FSR. We now have all harvesters working, including a new one, and FSR has been able to fill the seasonal positions. We have shifted

our weeds disposal process to a more sustainable arrangement with South Tahoe Refuse. We won’t be drying weeds at the Dover corporation yard anymore.

BULKHEADS

Then: In 2020 we were getting underway with replacement of the east channel, east side bulkhead. But that was about it. We didn’t really have a handle on the remaining life of our 60-yearold bulkheads, needed repairs or replacements, or expected costs. The reserve studies contained estimated costs, but the east channel project bid revealed that our reserve numbers were painfully low.

Now: We hired engineers to assess all of our bulkheads, and we now have a sense of when each segment needs work. Unfortunately, bulkhead costs have escalated far faster than published inflation numbers, so replacements will require special assessments in nearly all cases. Cove 3C is under construction, Cove 3A is close behind, and several others are in the financial planning stage. Bulkheads for St. Moritz and Bavarian Isles are a little different, since these are the property of the individual homeowners. Those bulkheads need work, but not full replacement, and the board has developed rationale regarding the boundaries of TKPOAs responsibility for the bulkhead on these Isles. Once ongoing engineering investigations have been completed, we’ll work with those members on a plan.

SUMMARY

We’ve come a long way in these last 4 years! In 2020 the board’s agenda was cluttered and our energy was spent reacting, and in many cases, kicking cans down the road. We were not in a place to tackle the big issues that we knew were going to bite us soon, like bulkheads, the corporate yard, and the expanding list of reserve projects that needed to be done. We were doing a good job moving the CMT along, but everything else we did had a fairly near-term feel. Lawsuits and other problems were getting added to the pile, but few were getting resolved and crossed off the todo list.

We are getting caught up. Our transition to FSR was difficult logistically, but we got it done, and it has been great. We have resolved nearly all of our lawsuits, and new problems aren’t piling on the way they were. Our staff have been grinding through the list of reserve projects. We are working the drinking water system problem and the bulkheads. Our finance committee and TOC have tackled our budgets and reserve studies and now have a path forward. Gaining that understanding revealed critical project underbudgeting problems and reserve budget shortfalls, but now it is the devil we know.

We are now able to see the road ahead, and we are confronting our problems and liabilities. And so we have begun working on the long-term vision. Our new Rules and Enforcement Committee has been working on some of our quality-of-life issues, like overcrowding of our amenities by non-Keys people, and street crowding by business operations and other vehicles that violate our rules. We are now progressing toward our vision of being the Premier Waterfront Community.

TEXT OF PROPOSED CHANGES

Changes are indicated by strikethrough for removed items and bold underlined for added items.

At the April 30th, 2024 Board of Directors meeting, the Board adopted the proposed changes to Architectural Control Rules.

Purpose of Change: To clarify Architectural Control Rules

Section 2

–

Setbacks and Bulkheads

02.02 Front Setbacks: Front setbacks are indicated on the map or plat of the subdivision in which the dwelling is to be built. If no setback is shown on plat map, then it is as defined by the City of South Lake Tahoe. The minimum front setback is 20 feet. Second story deck or structure may cantilever 5 feet into front setback.

Section 4 – Construction Requirements

04.10 Height Limits: The maximum ridge line of the structure cannot be higher than twenty-five feet (25') above the finished grade, measured no more than 18 inches from the top of the curb height measured at the center of the front property line nor can the chimney extend above twenty-seven feet (27') measured from the same point. No additional structural components may exceed 25’ (feet) in height.

Section

9 - Fences

09.02 All new fences are subject to the approval of the City of South Lake Tahoe Building

Section 9A – Revetments, Bulkheads, and Landscape Walls

Reference Sections 19.02 and 19.03.

9A.03 Any landscape wall three feet or higher, at or facing the high waterline, and changes the natural slope or gradient of the lot, will require a City Permit.

Section 10 – Landscaping

10.07 Plant materials (shrubbery) must be maintained at a height of no more than four feet (4’). in front of the house or four feet (4’) in the rear of the house.

10.09 Boulders, rocks, earth mounds shredded bark

(gorilla hair) and decomposed granite (DG) are to be utilized in moderation. Decorative rock material should not exceed 30% of total landscaped coverage.

10.10 Boulders, earth mounds, rocks and large plantings (trees) cannot be placed within any utility easement. Snow removal and access to buried utilities must be provided for at all times. Installation of all landscape is done at the homeowner’s risk and any required removal will be at the homeowner’s expense.

Section 12 – Exterior Lot Accessories: Jacuzzis, Hot Tubs, Solar Panels, Generators, and Air Conditioner/Heating Units

12.03 Motorized or noise emitting installations (like pumps, filters or other equipment) will require soundproofing or a decibel rating to match TRPA regulations and shall be run in a manner low enough so as not to disturb neighbors.

Section 15 – Misc. Provisions for exterior grounds, storage, and structures

15.02 Free Standing temporary storage structures of most types are not permitted. Permanent storage structures abutted next to the building and that matches integrated into the design of the residence structure may be considered and may not be installed within the side or rear setbacks.

15.04 Permanently mounted sport facilities are prohibited. Bocce ball courts, horseshoe pits, children’s playsets, and moveable sports equipment may be approved provided they are incorporated into the rear landscape design. No encroachment into side setbacks is allowed. The use of these facilities is restricted to daylight hours only. As a consideration to neighbors, abutting property owners will be solicited to comment on any application for these types of structures.

15.09 Use of charcoal or wood burning BBQs within the town home subdivisions is strictly prohibited. Outdoor/ BBQ Pellet Stoves are allowed. Please take into consideration the suggested clearances dictated by the manufacturer’s installation specifications. This should be the defining factor in the location of said appliance.

NOW THAT WE ARE A FIREWISEUSA COMMUNITY, WHAT’S NEXT?

On December 19, 2023, the TKPOA received the news that we have become a Firewise Community. This is a threeyear certification that must be renewed each year. Each year we need to demonstrate that we are making efforts to “fireproof” our community.

At the time of our application we submitted a 3-year plan to work toward this goal. The first year, 2024, is detailed below along with the status of each point.

YEAR 1 (2024)

EDUCATION AND OUTREACH

1. Conduct a town hall to inform the community of the steps involved in becoming a Firewise Community and our progress to date. This meeting will also include information about what individual TKPOA members can do to support the endeavor (home hardening, defensible space and current conditions of wildfire danger. Done – Town Hall on March

2. Develop mailing (electronic and through the Keys Breeze) to Tahoe Keys residents, property owners, commercial properties and the TKPOA within the Tahoe Keys community. Send at least 2 mailings a year related to the Firewise Community. Done

3. Develop and maintain a Tahoe Keys Firewise USA community website, attached to the existing TKPOA website. In process

4. Provide information to members on a community workday. In Process – Planned for August 4, 2024; meet at 9am at TKPOA Pavillion

HOME HARDENING

1. Continue regularly scheduled meetings with the Tahoe Keys Neighborhood Firewise USA Committee and the South Lake Tahoe Fire Rescue (SLTFR) to develop and implement defensible space and home hardening strategies and activities and to convey

they conversations to TKPOA members. In process

2. Provide members with a means to capture volunteer work hours and money spent on home hardening and defensible space work. Included in this article.

3. Provide information on fine mesh screening for all vents and chimneys to minimize ember intrusion. In process

4. Encourage residents to remove wooden fences that abut their houses and to replace them with noncombustible fences. Done at town hall and included in this article.

5. Encourage homeowners to remove wood that is piled near their home. Done at town hall and included in this article.

FUEL REDUCTION

1. Seek community cooperation/support to reduce combustible material by 50% in the next 3 years in order to mitigate the potential for tree torching and ember production during a wildfire. On going.

2. Maintain defensible space on common areas. On going.

3. Encourage homeowners to not cover wood piles outside with tarps. Included in this article.

EVACUATION PLANNING AND WILDFIRE PREPAREDNESS

1. Initiate an effort to standardize address markings. In process

2. Send a mailing to all TKPOA about the evacuation routes devised by the City of South Lake Tahoe. Mid-summer

3. Post evacuation routes within the community. Midsummer

4. Send a mailing and write an article in the Keys Breeze to inform all residents about what they should do in advance to prepare for a wildfire at their home and what they should have prepared in their “go bag.” July article in Keys Breeze

TIME AND EXPENSE INVESTMENT EXAMPLES

Investing the equivalent of one volunteer hour (valued at $25.43) per residential dwelling unit within the site’s boundary in annual wildfire risk reduction efforts is a requirement of the national recognition program’s criteria for maintaining an “In Good Standing” status. Examples of potential actions, activities, and expenses that can be used in meeting the total investment are listed below. These are only examples, it is not a comprehensive list.

COLLABORATION WITH FORESTRY, FIRE, AND RELATED EXPERTS:

• Consultation time with forestry/fire professionals on areas at risk

• Coordination of arborist, landscaping, etc. estimates for vegetation maintenance in common areas

• Regional coordinator’s time mentoring/working with residents

• Time spent performing fire risk overviews at individual homes

COORDINATION OF PROJECTS, MEETINGS, ETC.:

• Coordination of wildfire related outreach events

• Coordination of wildfire educational presentations with subject matter experts

• Resident leader’s program administration time

• Travel time to risk reduction meetings, orientations, trainings, and workshops

EDUCATION/TRAINING EVENTS AND MEETINGS FOR RESIDENTS:

• Attendance at evacuation/preparedness trainings

• Attendance at wildfire-related education/ informational meetings and events

• Home improvements/modifications training

• Fire-resistant plant species workshop

• Safety and personal protective equipment training

• Vegetation management training

IMPROVEMENTS/MAINTENANCE ON THE HOME AND OUTBUILDINGS:

• Chimney spark arrestor installation

• Repairs to retrofit open-eaves style construction to soffited-eaves

• Modifications of deck to increase the gap between boards from ⅛ inch to ¼ inch

• Inspection of roof; replacement of shingles as needed

• Inspection/repairs of eaves and soffits to ensure construction materials are in good condition

• Removal all flammable materials from under decks and porches

• Removal of debris between deck board gaps/joints

• Removal of debris on the roof and in the gutters as needed

• Replacement of missing deck boards to reduce ember entry to area under decks

• Replacement of vinyl gutters with metal gutters

• Replacement of wood fencing sections where attached to the house with a noncombustible product

• Resident or contractor labor to perform ignitionresistant exterior improvements (e.g., new Class A roofs, mesh screening added to attic and crawl space vents, siding repairs, replacement of wood fencing attached to siding, etc.)

• Installation of weatherstripping along the perimeter of garage doors to help keep embers out

• Use of a sealant (such as caulking) to cover gaps in open-eave areas

TIME AND EXPENSE INVESTMENT EXAMPLES (continued)

IMPROVEMENTS/MAINTENANCE WITHIN THE HOME IGNITION ZONES:

• Clearing of debris at the base of combustible fences

• Clearing of vegetation beneath and around large stationary propane tanks

• Creation of a permanent non-flammable footprint under large stationary propane tanks

• Creation of a non-flammable footprint under decks with gravel, stone or concrete

• Creation of small fuel breaks by adding hardscaping (e.g., driveways, walkways/paths, patios, stone walls, etc.)

• Delimbing and removal of lower tree branches

• Relocation of firewood piles to at least 30 feet from the home and other structures

• Mowing lawns and trimming native grasses and weeds as needed

• Raking and removal of pine needles, leaves, and ground debris

• Replacement of combustible mulch material with stone/gravel

• Replacement of highly-flammable vegetation with fire-resistant species

• Reduction of ladder fuels

• Stacking/piling of slash and other debris for chipping or curbside pickup

• Thinning or removal of trees

NEIGHBORHOOD/COMMUNITY FOCUSED PROJECTS:

• Debris removal and maintenance of commonly owned areas

• Coordination of rental equipment and contractors for community-wide wildfire risk reduction projects

• Door-to-door canvassing to get new neighbors involved in reducing wildfire risks

• Grant writing/oversight for wildfire risk reduction projects

• Mentoring adjacent neighborhoods on the importance of reducing wildfire risks

• Organizing, coordinating, planning, and implementation of the annual education/outreach events/activities

• Participation and attendance at Firewise board meetings, including development and updating of action plans

• Participation in group risk reduction activities for residents physically unable to do the work themselves

• Participation in national Wildfire Community Preparedness Day projects

• Reduction of vegetation/fuels from adjacent ingress and egress routes

• Resident’s time attending/participating in annual wildfire education/outreach events

• Participation in risk reduction orientation to new residents

• Writing wildfire educational articles for the neighborhood newsletter or community website

EXPENSE EXAMPLES:

• Chipper/power equipment rental/purchases, fuel, oil, and repair costs

• Chipper/power equipment associated costs: fuel and oil

• Chipper/power equipment maintenance/repair costs

• Contractor/labor expenses to perform risk reduction work (e.g., arborists, landscapers, professional forester services, roofers, etc.)

• Costs for community-wide clean up days (e.g., dumpster rental, compostable leaf/lawn bags, etc.)

• Costs to replace flammable mulch materials with stone/gravel

TIME AND EXPENSE

INVESTMENT EXAMPLES (continued)

• Costs to replace flammable plant species with fireresistant options

• Costs to replace wood fencing sections where attached to the house with a noncombustible product

• Food/beverages for risk reduction group/volunteer projects

• Ground litter and debris disposal/hauling fees

• Hardscaping materials and related costs to create fuel separation

• Home improvement expenses to reduce impacts from heat and embers (e.g., roof, deck, fencing, gutters, siding, vents, windows, etc.)

• Mileage at the current IRS rate for attendance at wildfire related meetings, dropping off slash, securing rental equipment, etc.

• Portable toilet rental for volunteers working on cleanup projects

• Production costs for risk reduction flyers, signs, and related mailing expenses

• Spark arrestor installation costs

• Tool purchase/rental (e.g., loppers, pole saws, weed trimmers, rakes, etc.)

• Tree removal and separation/spacing expenses

• Safety equipment for neighborhood workdays (e.g., ear and eye protection, gloves, etc.)

• Value of hourly volunteer labor (e.g., residents, scout groups, CERT members, students, etc.) and the associated services and materials required for them to participate in risk reduction projects

As property owners in Tahoe Keys we can all help in the process of maintaining our FirewiseUSA status. During the risk assessments done on 20% of our properties we found that our community is in very good shape. The two areas where we could improve are removing wood piles adjacent to our homes and not having combustible (wood) fences attached to our homes.

A more complete list of actions that you can take to harden your home and maintain defensible space is listed here.

We do need to document the time and money spent to retain our FirewiseUSA status. Many people have already worked hard doing the spring cleaning of their property. This can be done by you or by the landscapers,

contractors that you employ. We will use the form on the following page, provided by Firewise to document our efforts. We will ask that you return this form to the TKPOA office by mid-September.

We hope that you will set aside some time on Sunday, August 4th to participate in our community work day. Details will be provided in the July Keys Breeze article.

The Tahoe Keys Firewise Committee looks forward to working with community members to assure that we remain FirewiseUSA. If you want to become involved in this process, please send an email to Hblumenthal@ tahoekeyspoa@org. The more the merrier!

Name:

Community Name:

Preferred Method of Contact:

Hours Worked

Dwelling Unit/Home

Date:

Examples include: Removing pine needles and leaf litter from roof and gutters, replaced vinyl gutters with metal gutters, ignition-resistant exterior improvements, installing screening on vents, flammable items removed from under decks and porches, inspect roof and replace missing shingles, etc.

Landscaping (0—100 ft from base of dwelling unit)

Examples include: Installation of hardscaping, replacing combustible mulches with stone/gravel options, tree and shrub removal, raking and removal of pine needles, leaves, ground litter/debris, tree trimming/limbing, moving firewood, lawn and native grass maintenance, etc.

Common Area

(HOA or other Homeowner jointly owned property within the site boundary) Activities include: Tree thinning, mastication and brush removal, grass maintenance, fire break construction, etc.

Miscellaneous

Meetings, presentations, program administration, home site visits, etc.

ASSESSMENT COLLECTIONS UPDATE

E-STATEMENTS

By default, the assessment statements will be sent as a hard copy; if you would like to sign up to receive your future assessment statements electronically, please navigate to: https://estatements.welcomelink. com/fscalifornia to sign up.

ASSESSMENT PAYMENT FAQS

Q: How are assessment charges applied to my account?

A: Regular quarterly assessments are due based on the following schedule each year:

• First Quarter due January 1st, considered delinquent if received after January 30th.

• Second Quarter due April 1st, considered delinquent if received after April 30th.

• Third Quarter due July 1st, considered delinquent if received after July 30th.

• Fourth Quarter due October 1st, considered delinquent if received after October 30th.

Assessment charges, for regular or special assessments, are not applied to owner accounts until the respective due dates. Using the regular quarterly assessment as an example, the first quarter assessment will not be charged to an owner’s account until the January 1st due date.

Q: When do late fees and interest charges apply?

A: Late fees and interest charges for delinquent payments are charged 30 days after the assessment due date. Reference the regular quarterly assessment schedule.

Q: What happens if I pay my assessments early?

A: Early payment of assessments is not required, however, for those owners who choose to pay their assessments prior to the due date, a credit will

temporarily show on your account until the assessment due date.

Q: How should I make my check out for my assessment payments?

A: Checks and online bank bill pay payments should be made out to the: Tahoe Keys Property Owners Association or TKPOA.

Note: To ensure your payment is applied correctly to your account, include your Tahoe Keys account number in the check memo section for check and online bill-pay payments submitted. Please check that you are using your new FirstService account number.

Q: There are multiple charges on my account. What are they all for?

A: Reference the Statement Outline below:

• Townhome Assessment – for townhome owners only, this is the Operating and Reserve portion of the quarterly assessment specific to the Townhome Cove Subdivision.

• Quarterly Assessment – this is the Common Operating and Reserve portion of the total Common quarterly assessment.

• Water Quality Assessment - this is the Water Quality Operating and Reserve portion of the total Common quarterly assessment.

• Water Company Assessment – this is the Water Company Operating and Reserve portion of the total Common quarterly assessment.

• Channels and Lagoons – this is the Reserve portion of the total Common assessment for the Channels and Lagoons account. These are funds that go towards dredging and bulkhead projects for the East and West Channels.

Q: Who do I contact for questions on my account?

A: For account questions, members should contact the 24/7 Customer Care Center at (800) 428-5588. On-site staff is also available at info@tahoekeyspoa. org or (530) 542-6444.

Q: I am having issues with my ClickPay account, who do I contact for assistance?

A: For assistance with ClickPay, members should contact ClickPay customer support directly at (888) 354-0135.

2024 ACC APPLICATION SUBMITTAL SCHEDULE

Submittal Deadline (Wednesday prior to the meeting)

January 10

February 7

March 6

April 3

January 16

February 13

March 12

April 9

May 1 May 7

May 15 May 21

May 29 June 4

June 12

June 18

June 26 July 2

July 10

July 24

August 7

August 21

September 4

September 18

October 2

October 30

November 27

July 16

July 30

August 13

August 27

September 10

September 24

October 8

November 5

December 3

Energy Effeciency and Programs

Whether you are looking to save money, be more environmentally friendly, or both, Liberty provides programs and support to help customers conserve energy and contribute to a healthier environment.

FREE Residential Home Energy Audits

FREE energy audits are available to residential customers, both renters and homeowners, for homes, multi-family units, and mobile homes. What is a home energy audit? It is an assessment in which a Liberty representative will come to your home to evaluate its overall energy efficiency and identify ways to help you save energy, which may also lower your monthly electric bill. After the assessment, you will receive a report with the audit’s findings and recommendations. You will also receive an energy efficiency kit which may include LED lamps, smart power strips, shower heads, and faucet aerators. Schedule an energy audit for your home today by calling 1-800-7822506 or by visiting libertyenergyandwater.com.

Energy Efficient Water and Home Heating

Do you have an existing electric hot water heater or heating unit but are considering more energy efficient alternatives such as heat pumps? Liberty is working on a new rebate program for residential heat pumps, so look out for announcements coming later this year or visit the Energy Efficiency webpage for more information.

Summer Energy Conservation Tips

If you are a “do it yourself” sort of person, there are several ways you can reduce your energy usage during the summer. Follow the tips below to help keep your usage and cost down.

No-cost tips to save on your electric bill:

• Turn off lights and appliances when not in use,

including your computer.

• Set the thermostat to 74° when at home and turn it off when not at home.

• Close window coverings to reduce solar heating.

• Set your water heater to 120°.

• Vacuum your refrigerator coils, underneath and in the back. They need air space to work properly.

Low-cost

tips to save on your electric bill:

• Use LED light bulbs instead of incandescent bulbs.

• Caulk windows and weather-strip doors.

• Install a hot water heater blanket.

• Install hot water pipe insulation.

• Install electrical outlet and switch plate insulation.

• Clean your furnace system and check ducts for leaks.

• Replace furnace and air conditioner filters monthly.

• Replace normal thermostats with programmable thermostats.

Additional ways to save:

• Use natural light as much as possible.

• Turn on the energy-saver switch on the dishwasher.

• Wash only full loads in the dishwasher and clothes washer.

• Wash laundry with warm or cold water.

• Use your lowest dryer setting.

• Take a shower, not a bath.

• Take shorter showers.

• Keep furniture away from heating/air conditioning vents.

For more information about our energy efficiency programs please visit libertyenergyandwater.com or contact Liberty’s energy efficiency team at CAEnergyEfficiency@LibertyUtilities.com for assistance.

TOWNHOME CORNER

THE "KEYS" TO FINDING WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW ON THE WEBSITE

Need to find your cove’s specific information?

A lot of information concerning townhome cove owners has been posted on the website. Here are the steps to access this information:

• Go to www.tkpoa.com

• Sign in (on the right side)

• Click on the tab “Docs”

• Select “Documents”

• Select “Townhome Oversight Committee” from the menu

• In this folder are the following (select and then look for your Cove’s folder):

» Cove Financial Reports

» Cove Newsletters

» Cove Town Hall Presentations

» Meeting Agendas

» Property Insurance

» Townhall Surveys

» Prior Cove Advisor Meeting Documents

Need to submit a Workorder or TOC Agenda Request?

Click on header "Townhomes”.

• Select “Work Order” to submit a work order, snow removal or call request.

• Select “Agenda request” to submit an item for the next TOC meeting.

Need the zoom link for an upcoming meeting?

Click on the header "News"

Select "Events.”

Scroll down to see the calendar, search for the date, and click on the event to find the zoom link.

Looking for a proposed rule or policy change?

Click on the header “Docs”

Select “Documents”

Select “Rules & Procedures”

Select “Rule Change Notifications”

WANT TO PAY DUES ONLINE?

Click on header “Pay Dues”.

A new window will open on the FSR Click Pay website. You will need to sign in with your Click Pay user ID and password to proceed.

Enjoy the epitome of waterfront living in this Tahoe Keys home offering a boater's paradise with expansive water frontage and a generously sized boat dock capable of accommodating up to three boats