602-206-3336
Spring has sprung and Scottsdale is at its finest –putting on a display of all our magnificent foliage which is most especially gorgeous after all of the recent rain! We put on quite a show for the entire the country with our televised coverage of recent events. Mother Nature was in full show-off mode, truly a Chamber of Commerce extravaganza.
It is no wonder we are seeing an uptick in Real Estate activity. So many of our visitors were lured by our beauty and decided to make our paradise their home. We are hoping to see more “For Sale” signs and “Open House” signs to add to buyer’s shopping pleasure. While there is certainly enough going on in the country right now to hold our interest on many topics, we are fortunate that the level of interest in, and the qualified buyers for our community, remains so much stronger than other markets. For Sellers, you can expect to see qualified and serious Buyers.
We look forward to hearing from any of you who are considering a Real Estate transaction so that we can add you to our ever-growing list of satisfied clients and customers.
To see current Scottsdale Ranch Real Estate activity go to www.PeggyRauch.com and click on “Popular Communities”
Thinking of selling your home? Tired of waiting for you home to sell? Looking to make a move now before prices escalate again? Why not give us a call and let us add you to our ever growing list of satisfied clients and customers. We have a proven track record throughout Scottsdale Ranch and surrounding areas. We have been here from the very, very beginning and our knowledge and experience allow us to stand above the crowd. Inventory is at an all time low so - jump in now and capitalize on the scarcity of available homes. We are here to help.
To discover Scottsdale Ranch is to discover a premier and forward-thinking residential community just right for you. At Scottsdale Ranch, you will find a community that reflects your taste and individuality. From luxury waterfront homes and spacious single-family dwellings to private patio homes, you will find a home to suit your needs. Scottsdale Ranch was established in 1981 and encompasses 1,118 acres bordered by 96th Street to the West, 112th Street to the East, and Shea Boulevard south to the Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community. There are 3,939 dwellings in Scottsdale Ranch.
Scottsdale Ranch’s prestige is complemented by its luxurious amenities. Lake Serena, a forty-two-acre manmade lake offers fishing and boating and is considered the jewel of Scottsdale Ranch. Likewise, the Community Center, which also houses the administrative offices, provides a comfortable gathering place for parties, community events, or even a game of cards.
Conveniently located at the corner of Via Linda and Mountain View is the Mercado which offers a variety of specialty stores, restaurants, a drug store, a gym, offices, and professional services. Centrally situated in the heart of Scottsdale Ranch is a 64-acre general public use area featuring many fine amenities such as Scottsdale Ranch Park, a world-class tennis facility, several lighted baseball fields, a beautiful Desert Garden, the Via Linda Senior Center, Virginia G. Piper Boys and Girls Club and Laguna Elementary School, an A+ School of Excellence.
The Scottsdale Ranch Community Association and the active participation of Ranch residents design the lifestyle, integrity, and aesthetics of our community. Visit our website at www. scottsdaleranch.org for more information about our fabulous community!
A seven member Board of Directors governs Scottsdale Ranch Community Association (SRCA). The Board establishes the basic policies of the Association and oversees the operation of the professional staff while demonstrating values of fiscal responsibility, openness and inclusiveness, legacy and innovative leadership. It is our vision that by basing our decision making on our shared values, new ideas will be implemented, property values and quality of life will be enhanced, residents will feel a stronger sense of belonging, leadership and facilities will be recognized as best in class and Scottsdale Ranch will be the most desirable community in the Valley. SRCA’s Board employs an Executive Director who oversees the administrative, landscape and building/lake departments including a full-time, on-site administrative staff and a contracted landscape maintenance company, who all work behind the scenes to implement the mission statement.
The Board of Directors meets the fourth Tuesday of every month at the Community Center. These meetings are open to the membership. Meeting minutes can be found on our website at www.scottsdaleranch.org under SRCA Documents and Forms, Board of Directors.
Association Information
Scottsdale Ranch Community Association (SRCA) 10585 N. 100th Street, Scottsdale, Arizona 85258
Office: (480) 860-2022/Fax: (480) 860-8264
After Hours SRCA Emergency/Answering Service Number: 1 (888) 271-0019
Website: www.scottsdaleranch.org
THE SRCA OFFICE WILL BE CLOSED MONDAY, MAY 29TH IN OBESERVANCE OF MEMORIAL DAY.
OFFICE HOURS: MONDAY – THURSDAY 8 AM – 5 PM
FRIDAY: 8 AM – 3 PM
PHONE HOURS: MONDAY – THURSDAY 9 AM – 5 PM
FRIDAY: 9 AM – 3 PM
Staff emails:
Kathe Barnes .................................................. kbarnes@scottsdaleranch.org
Executive Director
Kathy Diab .......................................................... kdiab@scottsdaleranch.org
Homeowner Liaison
Genevieve Long ................................................. glong@scottsdaleranch.org
Community Relations/Events Coordinator
Ricki Stamos rstamos@scottsdaleranch.org
Administrative Assistant/Bookkeeper
Joni Shepherd jshepherd@scottsdaleranch.org
Member Services Coordinator
Diane Botica dbotica@scottsdaleranch.org
Architectural Liaison
MISSION STATEMENT:
“The Mission of Scottsdale Ranch Community Association is to serve as the organization through which its residents may sustain and enhance the character, quality of life, and desirability of our community.”Matt Metz Director Mike Breslin Director Nina Munson Director
In this day and age, when negative news seems to drown out the positive voices, I wanted to take a few moments to remind Scottsdale Ranch members of the benefits of living here and the rights we all share.
The benefits are almost too many to enumerate, but clearly our beautiful signature Lake Serena – with its opportunities for fishing, boating, kayaking, and even just enjoying the views across this scenic body of water – ranks near the top. We also have a wonderful Community Center, and Scottsdale city park where we host our many social events, thanks to the efforts of our able staff and generous volunteers.
But as a member of Scottsdale Ranch, you have rights, and they are important.
Perhaps the most important right you have is to expect our rules and regulations to be fairly and consistently enforced. It’s through consistent enforcement of our standards that we are able to protect the quality of life in Scottsdale Ranch and the property values of our homes. We do this by ensuring properties are maintained, modified, and improved consistent with our high standards.
You also have the right to expect that our common areas – Lake Serena, Community Center, mini-parks, and rights of way – are maintained. The upkeep and improvement of these common area elements is yet another way your Association protects your property values and lifestyle.
You can also expect that Scottsdale Ranch will get involved in zoning and neighborhood issues in the areas surrounding Scottsdale Ranch. By engaging with the City of Scottsdale, developers, and neighboring homeowner associations, we can have a big impact on population density, views, and traffic which – if not managed – potentially can adversely affect us. Over the past several years, Scottsdale Ranch has had a significant influence on proposed developments and zoning changes that could have affected our quality of life.
You can expect your Board of Directors to be future-focused. In addition to ensuring the current operational needs of the Association are addressed, the Board spends much time in future-visioning. We keep our ears to the ground to discover trends that are affecting other homeowners’ associations across the country – both positive trends and negative trends. The popular proverb “forewarned is forearmed” is an admonition to us that if we can see what’s coming, we can best be prepared to fend off the negatives and embrace and magnify the positives.
Perhaps most of all, you have the right to be heard. You have many opportunities to express your views. When you cast your vote for Board candidates, you have a say. When you attend Board meetings or committee meetings, you have a say. And when you put your own skin in the game by volunteering for the board or for one or more of our many committees, you have a say. And when you show up for one of our many social events, and engage with your neighbors, and with staff, and with Board members, you have a say.
So, I encourage you to exercise your rights, constructively, by attending events, by joining a committee, by running for the Board. After all, YOU are the “homeowners” in your homeowner’s association!
January 2023
• Board heard homeowner appeals for rental restrictions and architectural decision.
• Board adopted rule to prohibit pickle ball on singlefamily lots.
• Board adopted non-discrimination policy.
February 2023
• Board heard homeowner appeals relating to architectural submittals.
• Board voted to deny a partial replat of Mercado.
Water conservation is an important issue for an association as well as a homeowner—and not just because we want to be environmentally responsible. An equally important reason is that we all want to keep expenses as low as possible. As you know, the City of Scottsdale requested that citizens not overseed last fall. SRCA chose not to overseed as did many of our sub associations and homeowners. The city reported that they reduced municipal water use by over 38 million gallons in 2022.
Here are ways you can continue to conserve throughout the year:
Large appliances—washing machines and dishwashers—consume the most water, so they are important places to start any water-conservation efforts.
• Set the water level on your washing machine to match the size of your load. Try to avoid doing frequent small loads; whenever possible, run the machine only when you have a full load.
• You don’t need to rinse dishes before putting them in the dishwasher! No, really. Hand rinsing dishes under the faucet uses 15-18 gallons of water per load. If your dishwasher has a pre-rinse cycle, try using it instead of hand rinsing. If a dish or two isn’t completely clean after the dishwasher cycle, finish the job by hand.
• Like the washing machine, only run the dishwasher when it’s full. If you have only a few dishes, wash them by hand in a sink or basin—not under a running faucet. Use a second basin or dishpan for rinsing, or spray rinse all the soapy dishes at once.
After these major appliances, the bathroom offers the next biggest opportunity to save water.
• Make sure your toilets are all working efficiently. According to the American Water Works Association, the average American home loses 14 percent of all water used to leaks. (And, remember, the toilet is not a waste basket.)
• Keep your showers as brief as possible or turn the water off while shaving or scrubbing in the stall. Consider installing water-saver showerheads and faucets.
• When taking a bath, close the drain while the water warms
• 2022 audit was accepted as presented by Butler Hansen CPAs.
The SRCA office will be closed on May 29th in observance of Memorial Day.
up then adjust the temperature. Monitor the tub as it fills, and turn the water off at the half-way mark.
• There’s nothing as refreshing as a cold drink of water, but don’t let the faucet run to get it. Chill a container of water in the refrigerator instead.
• Avoid running hot tap water over frozen food to defrost it; put it in the refrigerator the night before.
• Rethink any tasks you usually perform under running water—like washing vegetables or brushing your teeth. (A gallon of water a minute flows through a tap that’s only half open.). Use a dishpan or bowl of water instead of letting the tap run. Then pour the water from the bowl on your house or outside plants.
Before pouring that half-filled glass of water down the sink, ask yourself where it could be put to good use? How about pouring it in the dog’s bowl? And the condensate from the dehumidifier is suitable for watering plants. Other sources of “used” water are suitable for reuse—it just takes a little imagination and a change in routine.
Scottsdale Water offers free water efficiency workshops designed to help residents learn how to use water more efficiently in their homes and yards. Visit https://www.scottsdaleaz.gov/water/ workshops for more information.
Water conservation begins with each of us. If each resident makes a few simple adjustments in their household routine, we cannot only conserve water but save money.
As we all know, Scottsdale Arizona is a sought-after vacation destination. Many Scottsdale Ranch Community owners are now renting out their homes more than ever. Our Short-Term rental leases in single family homes do have restrictions. For these single-family homes in Scottsdale Ranch, our CC&Rs state:
Please note that per Article IV, Section 3(b) of the Third Amended and Restated Declaration of Covenants, Conditions, Restrictions, Assessments, Charges, Servitudes, Liens, Reservations and Easements (Scottsdale Ranch Community Association):
o All leases must be in writing and must provide that the terms of the lease are subject in all respects to the provisions of the Association’s Declarations and Rules, and any State, County, or City Rules or Regulations regarding leasing properties.
o The lease shall contain a requirement that any violation of the Declaration or the Association Rules, State, County, or City Rules by the lessee or other occupants shall be a default under the lease.
o There shall be no subleasing of residential dwelling units or assignments of leases.
o An owner may not lease his Lot to more than one Single Family at one time.
o An owner may not enter into more than a total of two (2) leases for his Lot during any 365-day period .
o All leases must be for a minimum of a thirty (30) day term . No new lease may begin less than thirty (30) days after the start date of the prior lease. No advertisement offering a lease or rental for less than thirty (30) days shall be allowed. All advertising for leasing shall limit leasing to only a Single Family.
Any Owner who leases his Lot and the residential dwelling unit situated thereon must provide the lessee with copies of the Declaration and Association Rules. An Owner who leases or otherwise grants occupancy rights to his Lot to any Person shall be responsible for assuring compliance by the Occupant with all of the provisions of the Declaration, Association Rules and Design Guidelines and shall be jointly and severally responsible for any violations by the Occupant. Violations shall be subject to monetary penalties as determined by the Board of Directors.
What many homeowners don’t know is that Airbnb, VRBO or other short-term rentals would qualify as a “lease” since the host is being paid money (rent) in exchange for allowing a guest to occupy their home. This means that the leasing restrictions in the CC&Rs would apply to short-term rentals.
SCRA takes reports of short-term rentals seriously. We regularly review vacation rental websites and welcome reports from residents who suspect a shortterm rental in their neighborhood. Additionally, the SRCA Board of Directors can impose substantial fines to owners who do not follow the leasing restrictions set in place with the community CC&Rs.
Please keep in mind if you live in a community that is not classified as “Single Family Residential”, the above rules cannot be enforced by SRCA. Please check with your community manager for your sub-association’s rules for short-term rentals.
Please feel free to contact me at the SRCA office with any questions at kdiab@ scottsdaleranch.org or at: 480-860-2022.
By Diane Botica SRCA Architectural LiaisonAs the homes are aging in our community, so are the air conditioning units. Many homeowners are having to replace their units. Unfortunately, the new units are taller than the older units; therefore, making the new unit visible. Since the SRCA rules require all mechanical equipment to be screened from view, adjustments to existing screen walls are necessary to conceal the unit. Should you find yourself in this predicament, you will need to submit an architectural application with plans of how you intend to screen the unit.
Below are the rules and the information on what is required to be submitted for a review.
You may also refer to the architectural rules, they are always available on our website. Please visit the architectural page on the association’s website by clicking the “Plan My Project” blue/white house icon on the SRCA homepage at www.scottsdaleranch.org.
Per the Architectural guidelines:
All Authorized Equipment must be screened by screening walls in approved locations in order to conceal it from view of neighboring properties, common areas, streets, and the Lake. Screening walls must have a surface material, texture, and color to match the existing structure and must be integrated architecturally with the design of the building or structure.
To submit for a review, this is what is required in your submittal packet.
• An architectural application filled out and signed.
• A current picture of the front of the house as seen from across the street.
• A drawing showing the screening walls as they will be built with the width, height and length noted on the drawing.
• List the height of the a/c unit.
• If you are adjusting existing screening walls, you will make the drawing, showing the current width, height, and length of the walls.
• Draw the new wall height and list the new wall height.
• State how it will be finished, stucco and painted to match the body.
When in doubt, reach out! Please submit!
We’d like to take this opportunity to thank each of the homeowners here in Scottsdale Ranch who have paid their 2023 annual assessment. By paying your annual assessment in a timely manner, you are not only ensuring that Scottsdale Ranch Community Association continues to remain in good financial standing, you are also helping to ensure that we are able to perform the many tasks and duties for which the association is responsible.
As you are probably aware, the 2023 annual assessment, in the amount of $435.00, was due on January 1, 2023. Invoices were mailed to all homeowners on December 01, 2022. Payment was considered delinquent if not received in our office by January 31, 2023 thus giving homeowners ample time to make their payment without incurring a late fee. A 10% late fee of $43.50 was added to any unpaid accounts on February 01, 2023.
If payment on unpaid accounts was not received by February 28, 2023, interest was added to the account at the rate of 12% per annum. This fee will continue to be added to unpaid accounts each month until payment is received.
If payment is not received by April 30, 2023, a lien will be placed against the property through the Maricopa County Recorder’s Office, lien filing/release fees will be added to the account and further collection action may be necessary. This means that the property cannot be sold until the past due payments have been paid and having a lien filed against your property could affect your credit.
Should a homeowner’s assessments continue to be delinquent, their account may be turned over to an attorney for collection action without further notice from the Association. Failure to pay these assessments could also result in the filing of a personal judgment action and the homeowner will be responsible for all attorneys’ fees, document recording, and any other fees incurred to collect this debt.
If your annual assessment has not yet been paid, we encourage you to contact the Scottsdale Ranch Community Association administrative office as soon as possible to discuss your account and how we can work with you to bring it current. If you need to arrange a payment plan, consideration will be given. If you have any questions regarding this matter, you may contact our Bookkeeper Ricki Stamos at (480) 860-2022 or via email at rstamos@scottsdaleranch.org. We are here to work with you.
April 10th & May 8th SCOTTSDALE RANCH IS AREA 3
This Information can be found on the City of Scottsdale’s website at www.scottsdaleaz.gov.
The earliest items can be placed out is the Wednesday prior to the week of pickup and must be placed out no later than 5:00 am on Monday the week of the scheduled pick up. Residents, please be considerate of your neighbors - do not put your items out before the designated dates. Placing items out before this time can result in hefty fines being assessed to your account.
Please be patient as the city has all week to pick-up in our area.
Please separate your brush and bulk pickup into two piles – one for green waste and one for everything else. The piles will be picked up by separate trucks during your designated brush and bulk pickup week.
*Please refrain from placing trash containers or bulk trash where it blocks the sidewalk and would prevent pedestrians or wheelchair bound residents from passing along the sidewalk.
Whether it’s a broken streetlight, a fresh pothole, a missing trash can, or an out-of-place scooter, our EZ online service makes it simpler for residents to report problems with city facilities or services. Scottsdale EZ allows you quickly report issues on your desktop or mobile device and provides the city with a consolidated tracking and reporting system. Please visit https:// eservices.scottsdaleaz.gov/ez.
Parks and Recreation summer camps offer dynamic, enriching recreational opportunities for youth. The activities conducted in the camps will contribute to the physical, social and mental growth of each participant. Resident enrollment begins April 24th. For more information visit www.scottsdaleaz.gov and search ‘Summer Programs and Camps’.
The use of SRCA facilities and amenities are voluntary and at your own risk. Scottsdale Ranch Community Association cannot ensure that all areas are free of COVID–19 or other pathogens. The Association is not the guarantor of your personal safety if renting the community center, recreational boat rentals, or attending any groups, clubs or SRCA events.
For up-to-date information, please visit our website at www. scottsdaleranch.org or sign up to receive our weekly email blasts.
Many years ago, Sustainable Landscape Management (SLM), was born out of frustration on how landscape companies were maintaining designs created by landscape architects. Newly planted landscapes were being sheared into odd shapes instead of allowing the plants to grow naturally within a given space as intended by the architect. Along with Arizona Landscape Contractors Association (ALCA), a program was developed to maintain plants that benefit not only the plant material but the environment as well. Most landscape contractors fully endorse and utilize this practice today.
SLM practices result in sustainable landscapes that are environmentally sound and beautiful by creating the following:
• Eliminate unnecessary pruning including shearing
• Reduce the amount of organic waste going into landfills
• Redirect efforts to more productive activities on site
• Improve soil health and condition
• Decrease costs for fuel, fertilizer and plant replacements
• Conserve water through better irrigation practices
• Decrease noise and air pollution created by gas-powered equipment
• Create critter-friendly habitats through appropriate plant selection
• More colorful blooms on plant material
Many people who have relocated to the Phoenix area may not be familiar with cutbacks and rejuvenation pruning since they are used to a more formal, tightly sheared landscape. Back in the day it was thought if plants were not tightly sheared, it is not being maintained.
The logic behind rejuvenating plants is simple to understand in that you are reducing the size of the plant visible above ground while the root mass stays intact. A root system that was supporting a large plant will now have that same amount of energy devoted to a smaller plant and more new growth will emerge more quickly. This provides a healthier plant with the ability to provide more blooms and color during the growing season. When shearing plants, you are basically cutting off the colorful blooms as plants bloom from the tips of their branching. Listed below are the steps to take when rejuvenating plants.
• Cut all branches back to six to twelve inches above ground
• Lightly fertilize at the beginning of growing season
• During mid-season, thin out weaker branch structure
• Only specific plants will tolerate the drastic removal of plant parts
The following plants adhere well to hard cutbacks:
• Red Bird of Paradise – November
• Baja Fairy Duster – May
• Pink Fairy Duster – May
• Bush Morning Glory – February – April
• Brittle Bush – May
• Lantana species – February
It is important for the SRCA office to have your current contact information. If you would like to change your primary mailing address from your Scottsdale Ranch address to your summer address, please contact Ricki Stamos by email at rstamos@scottsdaleranch.org, to have your contact information updated in our property management software. By doing this, you will be able to continue to receive important letters, mailers, invoices and the SRCA bi-monthly magazines over the coming months.
If you are leaving for the summer, please make sure to loosen your dock line. This helps protect your boat and dock in case of an active monsoon season. Also, we’d like to suggest that if you know a neighbor who stays in town for the summer, that SRCA can contact in the event we are unable to get a hold of you regarding your boat, please call the SRCA office at (480) 860-2022 to give us their contact information.
Please note that there is a Watercraft Tow Policy charge of $75.00 to homeowners who require their boats to be towed or rescued.
Attention Scottsdale Ranch Boat Owners: All boat owners on Lake Serena must have a SRCA boating identification sticker visibly displayed on their boat. If you do not have an identification sticker, you will need to complete a Boat Sticker Application and submit it to the SRCA office to obtain one. You can find the application on the SRCA website at www.scottsdaleranch.org under Local Amenities / Lake Serena / Boating Guidelines.
If you have any questions, please feel free to call the SRCA office at (480) 860-2022.
• Oleander species - June
• Ruellia species - March
• Feathery Cassia - April
• Orange Jubilee - February
• Yellow Bells - February
• Leucophyllum species - January - February
Please contact your landscape professional on the benefits of rejuvenation pruning.
We Encourage Our Residents to Fly American Flags on Memorial Day to Honor and Remember Those Service Men and Women Who Paid the Ultimate Sacrifice While Serving Our Country.
The SRCA Finance Committee is comprised of members of our community association, which enables residents to have a say in how their money is spent. How does this committee work and who serves on it?
It makes sense for the board treasurer to chair the finance committee. As chair, it’s the treasurer’s job to keep everyone on track as the budget is prepared. The treasurer also presents the budget for approval to the board. If the association works with an accountant, he or she may offer consulting, but the accountant really has no significant role in the process of devising the budget.
The CPA conducts an annual financial audit of the association books and prepares association tax returns. Throughout the year, the CPA is available to assist in developing and monitoring accounting policies and procedures and recommends internal controls to the committee and board. The accountant is a valuable partner who works closely with the manager and the board to ensure your financials reflect accurately the financial position of the association.
Butler-Hansen, PC recently completed our annual audit as required by the governing documents of SRCA. They conducted the annual audit to obtain reasonable assurance that the financial statements were free of material misstatements and to assess the accounting principles used. They evaluated the overall financial statements and line items presented in our reports and established that SRCA’s books and financial records are in good order and no issues were found. Their conclusion stated that in their opinion, the financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of the Scottsdale Ranch Community Association as of December 31, 2022, and the results of its operations and its cash flows for the year then ended in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles
As Treasurer and Chairman of the Finance Committee, I am most happy to report that SRCA ended 2022 in a strong and healthy financial position and your association has adequate reserves, proper financial record keeping and effective systems in place to maintain the highest level of service to the community in the years ahead.
The homeowners who serve on the finance committee should represent a cross-section of the community. Of course, if there are members willing to serve who have expertise in areas such as insurance and finance, that’s even better. When it comes to size, a good general guideline is that the committee shouldn’t be so large that it becomes unwieldy. SRCA currently has 6 members on this committee.
The treasurer will make sure that all committee members understand the three basic components of the budget:
1. Funds needed for daily operation of the community, such as common electricity and water, grounds maintenance, management, insurance, and general maintenance. These expenses are either contractual or can be reasonably estimated based on experience. An important consideration when looking at items in the operating budget is the expectations of the community—for example, do members want a landscaper who is a “blow, mow, and go” type, or do they want a landscaper who provides a higher level of service?
2. Funds needed to maintain our reserves at sufficient levels. Reserve funds provide money for the repair and replacement of the community’s assets—such as the buildings, roofs, pavement, etc.
3. Funds for additions or enhancements to the existing common areas.
Armed with this knowledge, management and the committee estimate total expenses for the coming year and compare that sum to the association’s potential revenue
(assessments, interest on investments, rental income, and so on). If expenses are greater than revenue, the committee will first look for ways to lower expenses without compromising service. If that doesn’t balance the budget, the committee may have to make a tough decision—whether to increase assessments. This is what SRCA was faced with for 2023. A 10% increase in assessments bringing the annual assessment to $435 per unit.
There’s been a lot of changes going on in Scottsdale Ranch. Your neighbors (and probably you) have been hard at work improving your property, and it really shows. The past few years have seen housing prices skyrocket and residents renovating and upgrading their property. That’s where the Architectural Committee comes in.
To protect you and your neighbors, and to ensure our neighborhoods retain their themes and harmony, SRCA is required to have an architectural review process. Our CC&R’s require that all changes to the exterior of your property, whether in the front or rear, be reviewed and approved BEFORE you start your project.
With almost 4,000 residents, the staff at Scottsdale Ranch is kept super busy helping you with approvals and suggestions to help you during the process. Actually, more than 1,200 requests have been processed by staff in 2022 for projects such as new windows, pergolas and gazebos, changing exterior paint colors, and replacing concrete with pavers.
The Architectural Committee gets involved with projects that require major changes or vary from the characteristic of the neighborhood or the Architectural Guidelines and Rules. Some of these changes can include courtyard additions, construction of spas and pools and outdoor lighting. The Committee meets on Zoom on the 2nd and 4th Wednesday of the month at 3:30 p.m. and you are always welcome! Diane Botica is the Architectural Liaison. Call her at the office and she will send you a link for the meeting.
The 5 Step Process for your project is really simple:
1. Complete and submit the changes you want to make to the application. The home page of SR website is a helpful link called “Plan My Project”.
2. Our helpful staff will review your application and contact you when approved. If your project cannot be approved by our staff, it will be presented to the Architectural Committee for evaluation.
3. Architectural Committee members will visit the front of your property and become fully acquainted with your project before the Committee meets.
4. The Architectural Committee will meet, and you are welcome to attend and speak on your behalf.
5. If your project is approved or denied by the Architectural Committee, you will be notified within the week.
It is only rarely that requests are denied – in fact less than 6% of last year’s applications were denied. In the rare instance that the Committee denies a homeowner’s request, the response always includes a reason, and often suggestions on what changes are likely to result in an approval. If you choose, you may appeal the decision to the Board of Directors.
Please remember you MUST submit an architectural application for any change to the exterior of your property. The purpose of the architectural process is to protect property values and quality of life for you and all of your neighbors.
In summary, our meetings are open to all residents of Scottsdale Ranch. Whether you have lived in the Ranch for 20 years or 2 months, we would love to see you at OUR meetings and look forward to your input. Come meet us and the fantastic Scottdale Ranch staff that work every day for YOU!!
The Communications Committee, working with SRCA administration, has the purpose of keeping our residents informed of important issues in and around the Ranch. Our communication vehicles include the www.scottsdaleranch.org website, which links to the SRCA Homeowners’ portal, a bi-monthly magazine, semi-annual save the date event postcards, and weekly emails blasts. I hope you are taking the time to review the materials and acquainting yourself with the tools, resources, and information presented in them. Within them, you will find all the information necessary as a resident of the Ranch. In addition, critical information from the City of Scottsdale that we feel impacts our residents is also shared. If you are not receiving some of the material, please contact the SRCA administration who will assist you to ensure the omission is remedied.
We attempt to review and enhance our website on a regular basis to make accessing information as simple as possible. As you use the site, please inform the administration of any recommendations you may have to improve its functionality and effectiveness. Also, we have recently created a bifold brochure that showcases the many amenities on Scottsdale Ranch. Realtors are telling us it has become a very effective tool with prospective home buyers. It is also included in the new homeowners’ welcome packet.
The Communications Committee is comprised of homeowners who have an interest in ensuring our residents are being provided with information that is timely, relevant, and easily accessible. If you have an interest in helping fulfill the committee’s mission, please contact the SRCA administration and we would gladly welcome your participation.
The Scottsdale Ranch Lake Committee’s role and responsibility is to examine the overall operational costs and environmental quality of the lake and its water use in relation to the Department of Water Resources associated with maintaining Lake Serena. That’s the “official” description of what the committee does, but it is much more than that.
Lake Serena is considered the “crown jewel” of Scottsdale Ranch, and for good reason. For starters, it is available to all Scottsdale Ranch residents and their guests to enjoy, and not just those that reside by its shores. Besides being visually appealing, it provides opportunities for boating, kayaking, fishing, walking along portions of its shoreline, and other social gatherings and activities.
The main responsibility of the SRCA Lake Committee is to be a good and consistent steward of the lake to ensure its health and aesthetic value. We are responsible for decision-making when it comes to the management, maintenance, and improvements to the lake that serve our residents in the most favorable way. The committee takes these responsibilities very seriously, and no decisions are made without thoughtful dialog, and the appropriate thorough research when a particular issue calls for that.
Lake Serena is an integral part of the Maricopa County Flood Control District’s stormwater management system. The lake receives a vast amount of stormwater surface runoff from several square miles to the north and east, which introduces trash, dirt, silt, and other inorganic materials into the lake. Over time, these materials settle to the bottom of the lake at the main inflow points, eventually building up and causing the lake to become shallower. These areas are monitored and once the depths become too shallow for boats to navigate properly, the silt and debris are dredged from the lake bottom. This was successfully accomplished two years ago, so it will be quite a while before that need arises again.
In the spring of 2021, the first application of a natural and safe microbial treatment was added to the lake as a method to reduce the amount of built-up organic material on the lake bottom. This non-toxic product is perfectly safe for the biology of the lake. Depth readings were logged at select locations throughout the lake prior to the first application to use as a benchmark for monitoring the effectiveness of the microbial treatments. Additional depth readings were taken approximately one year later at the exact same locations and the results were very favorable, from anywhere between 2-1/2” to 9-1/2” of added depth! Because of these results, the Lake Committee voted unanimously to continue these treatments in 2023. New depth readings will be taken this spring to confirm the effectiveness of this product.
For those of you who may not know, the following are some fun facts about Lake Serena. It has a surface area of approximately 41 acres but has 5 miles of shoreline! The average depth is just under 9 feet, with a maximum depth of 16 feet. It is home to a plethora of wildlife, including birds, ducks, geese, turtles, raccoons, bobcats, coyotes, and javelina. It also supports a variety of fish species, including Largemouth Bass (Northern and Florida Strain), Black Crappie, Channel and Flathead Catfish, Israeli, and Common Carp, White Amur (Grass Carp), and several species of Sunfish.
We encourage all of you to get out and enjoy Lake Serena and all it has to offer!
As our lives began to reach a closer sense to normalcy, we, as Social Committee members and SRCA staff, were delighted to be able to begin resuming so many of our hallmark social events for you as residents. Hopefully, you were able to join in on one or more of the following events: Spring and Fall Movie in the Park, New Resident Welcome Party, Fishing Derby, Lake Festival, Fall Festival and Concert in the Park, 21+ Dinner and Performance Event, Holiday Donation Drive, and the Holiday Social and Boat Parade. Our recently created Food Truck Friday has become one of our biggest successes, having been established last year to overcome some of the Covid limitations to gatherings.
While we continue to bring these long-standing events to you, we are always open to fresh ideas to enhance our existing activities and to also consider new ones. These events are held so our residents can feel a part of a strongly engaged community where long-time neighbors can gather and find a forum to establish new friendships. As the Social Committee Chair, I welcome you to become part of the Social Committee. If time is a limitation, we always welcome your ideas or you can just volunteer at events. Should you have an interest, please contact the SRCA office. We would welcome your participation and suggestions.
I also want to remind you of the many clubs and groups that are available to you as residents. Representing just a few of them are Golf, Wine, Artists, Chess, Retired Active Men’s Coffee, and Women’s Association. Please log onto www.scottsdaleranch.org to learn about all the clubs and groups available to you. If you don’t find one that represents your interest, you are welcome to contact the SRCA office and discuss how to establish a new one.
We would like to thank all the SRCA Committee volunteers for all their hard work, time and dedication to ensuring that Scottsdale Ranch continues to be such a wonderful place for all to call home.
Architectural Committee
Michele Holzman, Chair
Matt Metz, Vice Chair
Carolyn Wheelock
Tom Mitchell
Dr. Pamela Chambers
Communications Committee
Nina Munson, Chair
Greg Mona
Kathy Hippensteel
Barbara Sarwar
Community Leadership Committee
Mike Breslin, Chair
Jeff Spiller
Rickie Currens
Barbara Sarwar
Election Committee
Michele Holzman, Chair
Nina Munson
Barbara Sarwar
Nancy Jacobson
Executive Committee
Michele Holzman, Chair
Mike Breslin
Nina Munson
Finance Committee
Mike Breslin, Chair
Michele Holzman
Larry Schmalz
Brian Munson
Bill Howard
Paul MacDougall
Governmental Committee
Larry Schmalz, Chair
Matt Metz
Jeff Spiller
Bill Howard
Suzanne Mirasola
Brian Munson
Lake Committee
Greg Mona, Chair
Brian Munson
Larry Schmalz
Bill Williams
Marilyn Wolfe
Personnel Committee
Matt Metz, Chair
Mike Breslin
Larry Schmalz
Brian Munson
Social Committee
Nina Munson, Chair
Greg Mona
Jeff Spiller
Ellen Blum
Sandra Galinski
Teller Committee
Nancy Jacobson
Therese Hall
Thank you to those who have served and are no longer serving in their board and/or committee roles. Your dedication and support was truly appreciated!
Richard Graff
The Community Leadership Committee is designed to create and maintain open lines of communication with SR subassociation property managers and boards within Scottsdale Ranch. As the master association, Scottsdale Ranch shares important information and expertise knowledge of current rules and regulations, as well as hot topics in the HOA world. This detailed information assists sub-association boards and managers to manage their own communities.
The Community Leadership Committee hosts networking luncheons twice a year, bringing in speakers who have a wealth of knowledge which share best practices on topics such as legislative, landscaping, water conservation, short-term rentals and more. The last two luncheon topics were on Short-Term/ Vacation Rentals and AZ Legislative and Case Laws.
If you are interested in learning more about this committee, please reach out to the SRCA office.
SRCA is committed to following state and federal fair housing laws. Neither SRCA nor any club using SRCA facilities shall discriminate in any of its activities or operations on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including sexual orientation and gender identity), disability, familial status, or national origin. This means all SRCA residents are welcome to join any club.
New Resident Welcome Party!
It was a great turnout at this year’s New Resident Welcome Party! The evening consisted of residents meeting each other and familiarizing themselves with SRCA. Appetizers and drinks were served, and some fun raffle prizes were awarded. Thanks to all who were able to join us and WELCOME to SR! We'd also like to thank our sponsors The Mona Team and Renewal by Andersen.
We appreciate your support!
To schedule your appointment or for more information, please call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or visit redcrossblood.org and use Sponsor Code: srca
Stay up to date on the latest SRCA community news and events!
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Hello everyone! My name is Sonia Bernaquez; I’m the Founder and Owner of Make n’ Craft. The primary purpose of Make n’ Craft is to create an intimate environment where a community of DIY enthusiasts of any level can unleash their creativity while having a blast! We mainly offer custom experiences for private parties like, Team Building, Birthday Parties, Bridal & Baby Showers, Girl’s Night out, etc. Our Mission is to support and promote local artists and artisans in our workshops and special events in addition to providing our guests the best DIY experience in the Valley! Being curious, I’m always on the watch for new crafting techniques and mediums to improve and vary the Make n’ Craft’ guests’ experience.
Professional background:
I have always been very passionate about home decor and DIY projects. That’s what led me to get a degree in interior design. I later worked for a local newspaper where I was in charge of their special home decor edition magazine. I enjoyed working with graphic designers, so I started learning visual design techniques. I’m still, to this day, very passionate about any visual art. I’m a Canva Pro enthusiast!
Fun Facts about me:
At 40, I had a baby boy and returned to school! What a mid-life crisis! I completed a bachelor’s degree in business management, a certification in personal and professional coaching (I’m an accredited coach, ACC), and also an MBTI practitioner certification. I specialize in management leadership and personality traits. My background gives me precious knowledge when it’s time to understand and customize companies’ team-building events or any other events.
In my personal and professional life, putting others first and helping them reach their objective is second nature. Since I moved to Arizona from Montreal (I’m French Canadian) 7 years ago, I have successfully co-founded a nonprofit school for children with autism in Scottsdale, where I took the role of Director of Operation and Development. That project was significant, and I’m incredibly proud to have helped many families access a customized educational program for their children with special needs.
In my free time, I like to: Travel the world, do Pilates, ride ATV, fish, cook & bake, watch movies with my family,
play with my dogs, and, of course, make paper flower wall art, window décor, painted mural and learn new crafting techniques!
I hope to see you soon at my studio!
-Sonia
Hopefully, we are all sticking to our New Year’s Resolutions that we made a couple months ago…you know…the one where we promised ourselves to work out multiple times per week and eat healthy. If this is you…Great Job and keep it up. If you are like me and have not been keeping up with your fitness resolution(s), do not despair. There is still time to get back on track.
Regardless of your present fitness status, there are numerous ways to maintain a healthy lifestyle to include: Working out at local gyms, walking/jogging around the neighborhood, cycling, and hiking on one of our many trails. Whatever your preferred activity may be, please keep the following tips in mind when it comes to personal safety:
Hiking Trail Safety:
1. Lock your vehicle: Vehicle burglars will often simply walk through the trailhead parking lots randomly checking door handles to see if they are locked.
2. Leave valuables at home: Criminals are well-aware that hikers leave their valuables inside the vehicle while they are hiking. Consider using a backpack or fanny-pack to keep items such as cash, cell phone, and identification.
3. Watch out for each other: Be aware of your surroundings as you walk to and from the parking lot. Preventing a crime is a community endeavor so immediately report suspicious individuals to the Scottsdale PD as soon as safely possible.
Fitness Center Safety:
1. Lock your vehicle: Vehicle burglars will often simply walk through the gym parking lots randomly checking door handles to see if they are locked.
2. Leave valuables at home: Criminals are well aware that gym patrons leave their valuables inside the vehicle while they are working out.
3. Watch out for each other: Be aware of your surroundings as you walk to and from the parking lot. Immediately report all suspicious activity to the Scottsdale PD. Also report the activity to the fitness center employees.
***As you have read, fitness centers and trailheads have very similar theft prevention guides. This is due to the fact that criminals are aware that the parking lots of those locations offer the best chance for them to take advantage of citizens leaving their valuable belongings inside their vehicles for an extended period of time.
Cycling Safety:
1. Always wear a properly fitted bicycle helmet.
2. Ride on the right-hand side of the road.
3. Always ride in the same direction as traffic.
4. Use a bike path if available.
5. If you are riding with others, ride single-file, not side-by-side.
6. Obey all traffic signs.
7. Stop your bike at street corners.
8. Wear light/bright colors and reflective gear when riding at night.
9. Watch out for motorists turning in front of you.
Walking/Jogging Safety:
1. Face on-coming traffic.
2. Cross the street at designated crosswalks.
3. Obey traffic signals.
4. Watch for turning vehicles. Make sure the driver sees you.
5. Walk/Jog on the sidewalk or multi-use path.
6. Wear bright clothing and consider carrying a flashlight if walking/jogging at night.
7. Walk/jog with a friend whenever possible.
8. Walk/jog in familiar areas but try to vary your routes.
9. Avoid walking/jogging in secluded areas.
Please check with the administration office to see if the SRCA meetings will be held in person and/or via Zoom webinar.
SRCA is committed to following state and federal fair housing laws. Neither SRCA nor any club using SRCA facilities shall discriminate in any of its activities or operations on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including sexual orientation and gender identity), disability, familial status, or national origin. This means all SRCA residents are welcome to join any club.
available to view 24/7 at www.scottsdaleranch.org/events/cal. Dates subject to change. Looking for your sub-association events? Check with your sub-association manager or board. Thank you.
