45-DAY NOTICE
22
N
S
TAHOE DONNER E
W
OPENING BACK UP A PHASED APPROACH
16
Q+A WITH TAHOE DONNER’S
NEW GENERAL MANAGER 14
2020 BOARD ELECTION KEY INFORMATION + CANDIDATE INTERVIEWS
11
J U N E
2 0 2 0
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INSIDE THE REPORT:
THE BUZZ:
02
08
ASSOCIATION UPDATES
EVENTS, DINING + UPDATES
Message from the Board President
15
14
Giving Fund Awards Eight Scholarships
06
Q+A with Tahoe Donner’s New General Manager
20
16
Green Waste
Construction project approved for iconic Tahoe Donner Trail
22 KERI OBERLY
NATURE LOOP TRAIL
FEATURES
24
18
Club Updates
32
Town of Truckee Roadway Vegetation Maintenance
Where in the World Is TD News?
Covenants, Complaints + Enforcement
29
Briefs
KENNY BLUM
Plus, kick off the summer grilling season with a recipe for the best barbecue sauce in town, courtesy of Alder Creek Cafe
45-Day Notice: Fire Safety and Seasonal Fire Ban
Amenity Updates + Reopening Plan
28
26
TAKE-OUT MEALS OFFERED AT THE LODGE
Tahoe Donner and Truckee to Stay Alert Against Wildfires
11
30
COVID-19 Update
31
Board Meeting Recaps
2020 BOARD ELECTION Key information + candidate interviews
TAHOE DONNER NEWS |
1
VOLUME 21 | NO. 06
JUNE 2020
EDITORIAL AND PRODUCTION TEAM Lindsay Hogan Joe Reeder Derek Moore
Drew Deurlington Ali Dickson Amber Barrett
SENIOR MANAGEMENT
Annie Rosenfeld | Director of Risk + Real Property arosenfeld@tahoedonner.com Miguel Sloane | Director of Operations msloane@tahoedonner.com Jon Mitchell | Director of Capital Projects jmitchell@tahoedonner.com Lindsay Hogan | Director of Marketing + Member Relations lhogan@tahoedonner.com Miah Cottrell | Director of Information Technology mcottrell@tahoedonner.com Tom Knill | Director of Human Resources tknill@tahoedonner.com
BOARD OF DIRECTORS President | Charles C. Wu cwu@tahoedonner.com
Vice President | Don Koenes dkoenes@tahoedonner.com Treasurer | Jeff Connors jconnors@tahoedonner.com Secretary | Jim Roth jroth@tahoedonner.com Director | Jennifer Jennings jjennings@tahoedonner.com
POSTMASTER: Periodical postage paid at
Truckee, California and additional mailing offices. Send address changes to Tahoe Donner News, 11509 Northwoods Blvd., Truckee, CA 96161; (530) 587-9400, Fax (530) 579-3224
EMAIL: comdep@tahoedonner.com ADVERTISING SALES: CC Media + Publishing is the exclusive advertising representative: (775) 327-4200 | laura@cc.media
PUBLISHING INFORMATION TAHOE DONNER ASSOCIATION HOLDS THE EXCLUSIVE SERVICE MARK RIGHT TO “TAHOE DONNER”. ANY UNAUTHORIZED USE OF SUCH WILL BE REGARDED AS AN INFRINGEMENT OF THAT SERVICE MARK RIGHT AND IS PROHIBITED. THE INCLUSION OF ADVERTISING IN THIS PUBLICATION DOES NOT CONSTITUTE AN ENDORSEMENT OR RECOMMENDATION BY TAHOE DONNER ASSOCIATION OR ITS BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF THE PRODUCTS, SERVICES OR VIEWS CONTAINED THEREIN. TAHOE DONNER NEWS (ISSN 1550-6061) IS THE OFFICIAL MONTHLY PUBLICATION OF TAHOE DONNER ASSOCIATION, WHICH IS LOCATED AT 11509 NORTHWOODS BLVD., TRUCKEE, CA 96161. EACH MEMBERSHIP PARCEL RECEIVES ONE SUBSCRIPTION TO A DOMESTIC ADDRESS. COST TO PRODUCE AND DISTRIBUTE THIS PUBLICATION IS OFFSET BY ADVERTISING REVENUES. PERIODICALS POSTAGE PAID AT TRUCKEE, CA, AND ADDITIONAL MAILING OFFICES. MEMBER LETTERS TO TAHOE DONNER ARE PUBLISHED IN THE MEMBERS SECTION OF TAHOEDONNER. COM, WHERE PUBLISHING GUIDELINES ARE AVAILABLE.
MESSAGE FROM THE BOARD PRESIDENT Dear Members, I am continually impressed with the way our community has banded together month after month to weather these unprecedented times. The COVID-19 pandemic has turned our world upside down. As the pandemic took hold, Tahoe Donner complied with government emergency orders. Painfully but smoothly, all amenities were immediately shut down and actions were taken to cut costs. As some government restrictions start to ease, we have an opportunity to reopen some of our very popular summer amenities in a safe and economical way. However, we must also institute measures for the safety of our staff, members and guests. How we achieve this is not a simple thing. As we reopen amenities, it is important to know we will limit the total number of people using them to ensure social distancing. It is also important to know that the decisions of what will open and how it will open are made with great thought and analysis. Amenities will initially open in a limited, low-risk capacity. Services may be added once amenities are reassessed by the following decision-making criteria: safety/risk, regulatory, financial and member demand. I am also happy to share that Tahoe Donner management is participating in the Nevada County Recovery Advisory Committee and Truckee Recreation Roundtable activities. Our involvement in the Nevada County Recovery Advisory Committee means we have up-to-date information on policy changes and practices as well as support and access so that our leaders can be guided by the mandates and recommendations of public health officials.
At the time of press, we have reopened the Lodge Restaurant & Pub, Beach Club Marina, Tennis Center and Bikeworks for the holiday weekend. By the time this is in your mailbox, the driving range should be open and we should be nearing the opening of the Equestrian Center for horse boarding. Please know that, at the time of press, we are in Stage 2 of reopening. We are unable to offer Stage 3 services, which include gyms, pools, campgrounds and other activities deemed high-risk. Once Nevada County is cleared to move into Stage 3, we will begin to initiate the reopening of these amenities in a safe and economical way. Please know that reopening amenities takes labor and time, and we will do our best to get these open as quickly as possible given reasonable staffing levels. You can learn more about risk levels, opening/expanding, criteria and our planned reopening model on page 17.
TAHOE DONNER’S NEXT GM As many of you know, last month, we announced that the board unanimously chose David Mickaelian as Tahoe Donner’s next general manager. David has a strong background as the current city manager of Healdsburg, California with experience in wildfire management, a strong commitment to recreation and open space and management in large capital projects. We are confident his skill set is a great match for Tahoe Donner, and we look forward to him coming on board in mid-July, helping our community navigate COVID-19 impacts and continue to make Tahoe Donner the amazing community we all love. You can learn more about David on page 14 and listen to him speak during the Annual (Continued on p. 4)
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TAHOE DONNER NEWS |
3
(Continued from p. 2)
Meeting of Members on June 28 via Zoom video conference.
ELECTION SEASON The election is upon us! This year, we will have two open seats as Director Jennifer Jennings and Director Jeff Connors complete their three-year terms. We sincerely thank Jennifer and Jeff for the work they have contributed and the countless hours they have volunteered during their tenure. Elections ballots were mailed on May 27 to the address where your Annual Assessment invoice is mailed. Now more important than ever, we ask that you return your ballot by mail if possible due to COVID-19. You are still able to drop your ballot off in person at Northwoods Clubhouse on June 26 from 9AM-5PM and on June 28 from 10-11:30AM, but strict social distancing will be required.
I encourage you to learn more about your candidates on page 11, as well as on their candidate webpages at tahoedonner.com/boardelections. In closing, I want to thank each of you for your understanding throughout these past months. There is no guidebook on how to adjust operations during a global pandemic, and it certainly is not a simple situation as it evolves so rapidly. I continue to be in awe at how our community is coming together in support of one another. We will get through this together, and Tahoe Donner will continue to be the special place it is for us. Thank you for your feedback, ideas, suggestions and input. Be well, CHARLES C. WU | BOARD PRESIDENT
STAY IN THE KNOW. SIGN UP FOR WEEKLY EMAILS:
TAHOEDONNER.COM/SUBSCRIBE
TAHOE DONNER CONTACTS Area Code (530)
MEMBER SERVICES
587-9400 | info@tahoedonner.com | Live chat on website
AMENITIES Beach Club Marina 587-9460 marina@tahoedonner.com Bikeworks 582-9694 bikeworks@tahoedonner.com Cross Country Ski 587-9484 xc@tahoedonner.com Downhill Ski Resort 587-9444 ski@tahoedonner.com Equestrian Center 587-9470 equestrian@tahoedonner.com Forestry 587-9432 forestry@tahoedonner.com Golf Course 587-9443 golf@tahoedonner.com The Lodge 587-9455 lodge@tahoedonner.com Recreation Hut 587-9413 recreation@tahoedonner.com Campground 587-9462 campground@tahoedonner.com Tennis Center 587-9474 tennis@tahoedonner.com Trails 582-9672 trails@tahoedonner.com Trout Creek 582-9603 troutcreek@tahoedonner.com
ASSOCIATION COMMITTEE CHAIRS Architectural Standards Rod Whitten aso@tahoedonner.com Covenants Fred Zapponi covenantscommittee@ tahoedonner.com Elections Bette Rohrback electionscommittee@ tahoedonner.com
Finance John Dundas, Acting Chair financecommittee@ tahoedonner.com General Plan Rob McCray robmccray@sbcglobal.net Giving Fund Suzanne Sullivan tdgf@tahoedonner.com
ASSOCIATION CHARTERED CLUB PRESIDENTS 9-Holers Women's Golf Judi Roberts judi@greenroberts.com
Quilt Marilyn Dundas md11792@outlook.com
Bridge Lynn Cordner lynn.cordner@gmail.com
Rowing Dot Mace dotmace@me.com
Equestrian Susan Terrell terrellsf@earthlink.net
Senior Alpine Ski John Makin jmakin@sbcglobal.net
Friends of TD Trails B.R. Levine tdtrails@gmail.com
TD 4-Wheelers Bill Ratcliff club@td4wheelers.org
2. MASKS MATTER Covering your face protects you and me.
Hiking Robin Reese rbtahoe@sbcglobal.net
TD Ladies Play 9 Golf Shellie Poplin shelliepoplin@gmail.com
3. PLAN TO CHANGE PLANS If the place you'd like to visit is full, stay safe by finding a new spot to explore.
Junior Golf Jean Lai jslai@comcast.net
Tennis Michele Forsberg minkeysf@sbcglobal.net
Limited Abilities Persons’ Golf Mike Srago msrago@comcast.net
Women’s Golf Denise Rebar denise_rebar@merithr.com
Welcome! To keep us all healthy & safe, please follow these guidelines: 1. GO BIG ON DISTANCING Six feet everywhere, including beaches, parks, trails, and businesses.
4. NO GERMS OR ANYTHING ELSE LEFT BEHIND Please Leave No Trace, wash hands frequently, and bring sanitizer. 5. EXPECT CLOSURES Many restrooms are closed, and trash services limited. Plan accordingly. 6. SNIFFLES? STAY HOME If you're not feeling well, stay home. If you have symptoms, get tested.
takecaretahoe.org #takecaretahoe
Men’s Golf Tim Pellegrini tncpellegrini@sbcglobal.net
MEMBER FEEDBACK Help improve the overall association. Submit your comments and concerns via Likemoji or by using our online form at tahoedonner.com/feedback.
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5
FEATURE
NATURE LOOP TRAIL PROJECT APPROVED FOR CONSTRUCTION By ALI DICKSON
FOR NEARLY 50 YEARS, THE ICONIC NATURE LOOP TRAIL HAS BEEN AN IMPORTANT COG IN THE WHEEL OF THE TAHOE DONNER COMMUNIT Y. TRAIL USERS OF ALL AGES HAVE BEEN DRAWN TO THE TRAIL AND ITS ACCESSIBILIT Y TO OUTDOOR RECREATION, WILDLIFE AND NATURAL DIVERSIT Y. Originally built almost 50 years ago by Dart Industries, the Tahoe Donner Nature Loop Trail holds a unique draw for the community. Two miles of gentle trail wind through the heart of the association. Children love the natural access it provides, and adults love the opportunity to spend time together in an outdoor setting. The community connects and shares unique outdoor experiences just steps from their homes.
A UNIQUE AND SIGNATURE ASSET The Nature Loop Trail is enjoyed for many reasons. It is held as a community connection. It provides the opportunity for all members and guests to dive into nature. The access road and bridge are also held highly as the only motorized vehicle access into the Tahoe Donner parcel for forest management activities. “It is the most approachable family amenity in Tahoe Donner suitable for small children and grandparents to enjoy together. The natural diversity is amazing, from bear slashes on trees to creeks with small creatures to beaver dams and chewed aspen to a lovely walk along the creek. It's very special,” says one Tahoe Donner member. The winter of 2016/17 caused irreparable damage to both the boardwalk and bridge, deeming the trail unsafe for the general public. If you remember this winter, you’ll understand the damage. Since then, staff have been working consistently to bring the trail back to its former glory. Three years after its partial closure, the board of directors has approved moving forward with its reconstruction this summer and fall. Extensive surveying, designing, engineering and permitting have been completed over the last two and a half years, and construction was set into motion at the April 25 board meeting. Considering the complexity of the project, staff have moved remarkably quickly through the planning and design for the replacement and repair project. Typical
projects of a similar undertaking are usually over four years in the making. “It is likely that the trail project will begin in early July, pending approval from our ecological consultants,” says Christina Thayer, Tahoe Donner Trail Manager. “Folks may see some mobilization efforts prior to this.” The projected completion date is late fall, dependent on weather and conditions.
PROJECT SPECIFICS It’s a complex solution and carefully protected wild area. While construction will begin this summer, the effort to get to this tangible milestone goes back years. The planning and designing took place between 2018 and 2019 to scope the project and plan for consultant assistance. Those same years included designs and authorizations, including resource surveys, land surveys, engineering and permitting for all reworkings of the trail. Construction of the Nature Loop Trail will occur in different segments. The project budget is not to exceed $683,935, inclusive of 10% contingency. Funding for the repair and replacement project is provided through the Replacement Reserve. The Nature Loop construction cost breakdown includes: • Construction contract • In-house project activities and management • Construction monitoring services • Pre-construction biosurveys • Contingency percentage (10%) The costliest part of the construction project includes the bridge and elevated walkways. In total, the project will encompass: • One bridge replacement • One boardwalk replacement • 1,500 linear feet of new and rehabilitated work on the existing turnpike • One rock wall retention and tread stabilization improvement • 225 feet of decommissioned and rerouted trail • Four rolling dips (one with a rock dissipater) • One armored swale and a new and improved turnpike • 1,800 linear feet of rolling dips with rock dissipators on existing roadbed segment
While renovations and revamps will take place, the integrity of the trail will remain. “We do intend to keep the Nature Loop’s feeling of immersing in the natural environment and maintaining some of the existing ruggedness,” assures Thayer.
CONSIDERED TRAIL OPTIONS The decision to approve the current project came after evaluating a variety of plans. Closing most of the north side of the loop was considered. The future costs and impacts were unknown, but it was forecast that this may minimize the opportunity to protect the legacy trail. Some hikers may attempt to finish the loop without a designated trail, hurting the wetland environment. The future cleanups and orders from the destruction of environmentally sensitive wetland habitat by unauthorized users would create a financial rift. Signage and action to reduce trespassing were forecast to be substantial. Overall, the proposal to permanently close much of the north side of the loop was abandoned. Postponing construction to 2021 was also considered but ultimately decided against. Pricing for materials are currently reduced due to the COVID-19 impact, and prices in 2021 are unknown. Further delays would also mean that the project would need to be rebid, and the likelihood of project delays due to the pandemic this year may mean an increase in overall contractor demand and cost next year. Additionally, member input and support for the project was included in this decision.
ANIMALS SPOTTED ON THE NATURE LOOP
BEARS
COYOTES
DEER
While construction is underway, the loop will be closed to all users. Both Tahoe Donner and the involved contractor will keep the trail closed, and disregarding the closures will cause further damage and prolonged construction time. When it comes to obeying trail requests, Thayer urges that “cooperation will assist to protect environmentally sensitive areas and improve safety for everyone.”
SNAKES
This small-but-mighty loop offers an escape into the area we know and love. Whether it’s an early morning hike, a quick lunch break lap, an evening stroll or a weekend adventure, the Nature Loop Trail will once again be your gateway into the natural world in the heart of the community we call home.
R ABBITS
BIRDS
For updates on construction and the project, visit tahoedonner.com/nature-loop-trail-update.
SQUIRRELS
TAHOE DONNER NEWS |
7
FEATURE
TAHOE DONNER + TRUCKEE TO
STAY ALERT AGAINST WILDFIRES
By ALI DICKSON
It comes to no surprise by anyone in the Truckee/Tahoe community that wildfires are a real and dangerous inevitability. The area has seen devastating fires throughout the years, and each catastrophe comes with negative impacts that affect people, businesses and the environment. This year, the Tahoe Donner Association will join other area organizations in reducing the spread of wildfire with the installation of a fire camera overlooking the community and the surrounding area. This pan-tilt-zoom (PTZ) detection camera will allow for real-time monitoring and the early discovery of wildfires. Not only will this technology protect the Tahoe Donner and Truckee community, but it will add to the network of cameras that are already protecting the Tahoe Basin area and beyond. This camera is provided through AlertTahoe, a joint project that began with the University of Nevada, Reno and a young group of students from Meadow Vista, California.
THE HISTORY OF ALERTTAHOE In 2007, the Angora wildfire severely hurt Tahoe’s businesses, families and economy, not to mention ecological impacts. Though the effects were devastating, an idea grew to positively shape the future of wildfire detection. Looking back at how the fire was handled, a number of missteps hurt the ability to deploy a timely response while the fire was in its earliest stages. These missteps were noted among an ambitious group of students. The concept for AlertTahoe began with a project called Forest Guard, created by a group of young students from Meadow Vista, California. Their idea for a network of fire-detecting cameras won the Innovate Award at the Children's Climate Action in Copenhagen, Denmark in 2009. They teamed with Dr. Graham Kent, Professor at the University of Nevada, Reno Seismological Laboratory in order to seed the forest with wireless connection cameras to enable early wildfire detection. The laboratory had a digital microwave communication network already, and soon the project members began placing cameras along the Tahoe Basin area. Funding came through the Nevada Seismological Laboratory, the Tahoe Prosperity Center, the Eldorado National Forest and the
USFS Lake Tahoe Basin Management Unit. The core fundraiser for AlertTahoe’s private donations was possible due to the Tahoe Prosperity Center. AlertTahoe soon gained a following. In addition to a growing camera network, it inspired the larger network collection called ALERTWildfire, which is a consortium of the University of Nevada, Reno, the University of California San Diego and the University of Oregon. The spark for ALERTWildfire occurred once the involved parties realized that third-party microwave networks like AlertTahoe could be implemented and joined into one larger virtual network. This created the opportunity for smaller communities and organizations to band together in creating a larger grid to protect a vast area of land. Additional contracts to further expand this network have been signed through the Nevada, Oregon, Washington and Idaho Bureau of Land Management. Additionally, San Diego Gas and Electric, Sonoma Water, Southern California Edison, Pacific Gas and Electric and multiple counties including Marin, Sonoma, Napa, Lake and Mendocino are participating as well.
THE GOALS OF ALERTWILDFIRE
Discover/Locate/Confirm Fire Ignition
Quickly Scale Fire Resources Up or Down Appropriately
Monitor Fire Behavior Through Containment
During Firestorms, Help Evacuations Through Enhanced Situational Awareness
Ensure Contained Fires Are Monitored Appropriately Through Their Demise
ALERTTAHOE AT TAHOE DONNER In 2018, Dr. Kent presented the benefits of the expanding AlertTahoe and ALERTWildfire program at a Tahoe Donner Giving Fund annual fundraising dinner. Many attending this dinner understood the benefit of having a fire camera installed to help protect the Tahoe Donner Community. Among them, current Board Director Jennifer Jennings recognized the opportunity and assisted staff in working with Dr. Kent to gain further insight in protecting the Tahoe Donner community through the installation of a fire camera. The board of directors approved funding in the fall of 2019. A charitable contribution was made to the Tahoe Prosperity Center in December 2019 for a new AlertTahoe camera installation protecting the Tahoe Donner community. Despite recent operational modifications to adopt and adhere to best practices and social distancing due to COVID-19, AlertTahoe field technicians were on track to confirm location coordinates in May for the Tahoe Donner camera installation in June and early July. The schedule for installation will occur soon after the final location is established and access becomes available with the melting snow. The camera is to be placed at a high point within the association property boundary overlooking the community. While this camera will play a crucial role in protecting our community from devastating wildfires, it will also play a role in reducing the spread of fires in the area as part of the larger camera and communication network. The camera installation in the Tahoe Donner community will close a previously unfulfilled gap in the network’s viewshed. AlertTahoe is currently working with another Truckee area sponsor to secure funding for a future camera installation on Alder Hill. If funded, this location would complement the Donner Ridge camera and provide additional Tahoe Donner coverage. Additional cameras in the Truckee region include locations at Mt. Lincoln, Martis Peak, Sagehen and Babbitt. To learn more about fire cameras, visit alertwildfire.org.
HOW FIRE CAMERAS WORK AlertTahoe and ALERTWildfire cameras utilize pan-tilt-zoom (PTZ) cameras. This state-of-the-art technology allows for the camera to pivot in order to capture a fire coming from any direction. One of the unique aspects of AlertTahoe and ALERTWildfire is its ability to share information through a variety of facets. While funding for cameras has been raised on the federal, state, local and private level, all camera footage and data are accessible to firefighters, first responders and members of the public, regardless of what outlet purchased the camera or cameras. This inclusivity ensures that critical information throughout the Tahoe Basin and beyond can be quickly shared to all affected communities. To Date, 57 fires have been detected and extinguished in the Lake Tahoe region because of AlertTahoe. Between 2016 and 2018, ALERTWildfire has provided crucial information for over 600 fires, including a 2016 arson spree in Lake Tahoe.
HOW YOU can HELP TAHOE DONNER + TRUCKEE STAY ALERT While fire cameras are incredible tools in combating wildfires, the participants that view the camera material are the most crucial players in early fire detection. Tahoe Donner members are encouraged to view the camera’s live footage, especially during red-flag extreme fire danger events or to monitor an active wildfire nearby that offers potential to travel toward and threaten the Tahoe Donner community. Once the camera has been installed, it will be given a name, so all interested viewers can identify their specific location. For updates on Tahoe Donner’s AlertTahoe fire camera installation and process, please visit tahoedonner.com/preparedness.
TAHOE DONNER NEWS |
9
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THE REPORT
2020 BOARD OF DIRECTORS
ELECTION YOUR VOTE MATTERS TAHOEDONNER.COM/BOARDELECTIONS
The 2020 Tahoe Donner Board of Directors Election is just around the corner. Five candidates are vying for two open seats. Ballots were mailed on May 27 to the address where you receive your annual assessments and should arrive in your mailbox any day now. This year, it is more important than ever to return your ballot by mail if possible. Mail-in ballots are due to the accounting firm by June 26 at 5PM. In-person ballot return and replacement will be available at Northwoods Clubhouse on June 26 from 9AM-5PM and on June 28 from 10-11:30AM during the Virtual Annual Meeting of Members. Social-distancing guidelines will be strictly enforced if members choose to vote in person.
DON’T FORGET
KEY DATES
• Election Day is June 28. • Your vote will impact the direction of the association. Learn. Ask questions. Vote! • You must sign the red box on your return envelope if you vote by mail. Unsigned ballots will not be counted. • If you do not receive your ballot, please call (530) 587-9431 Monday through Friday, 8AM-5PM, or email electionscommittee@tahoedonner.com. Once verified, a new ballot will be issued.
JUNE 6 Candidates Virtual Meet and Greet via Zoom Video Conferencing
Each property gets one vote. Please work with your co-owners to cast your vote. A complete list of election FAQs can be found at tahoedonner.com/boardelections.
JUNE 26 Mail-in ballots must be received by the accounting firm by 5PM to be counted (please allow time for mailing) Ballots can be returned or replaced at Northwoods Clubhouse from 9AM-5PM JUNE 28 Annual Meeting of Members via Zoom Video Conferencing from 10AM-12PM Ballots can be returned in person at Northwoods Clubhouse from 10-11:30AM
BE INFORMED ABOUT YOUR VOTE Each candidate has an individual webpage to allow Tahoe Donner members to learn more about their individual positions regarding the future of the association. To read candidates’ position statements, visit tahoedonner.com/boardelections. The candidates also responded to a series of questions to help shed light on each candidate’s qualifications, areas of focus and views. To allow comparison of the candidates, their individual, unedited answers are published side-by-side on the following page.
ANNUAL MEETING OF MEMBERS
JUNE 28 | 10AM-12PM | VIA ZOOM VIDEO CONFERENCE
VISIT TAHOEDONNER.COM/BOARDELECTIONS FOR MEETING LOGIN INFO TAHOE DONNER NEWS |
11
Laura Lindgren What have you done or will you do to prepare yourself to be an effective member of the board?
Extensive involvement with Tahoe Donner to better our community: Chair of short-term rental/amenity task force, establishing quality of life and enforcement procedures to benefit all members;
Facilitation of member input and participation in numerous Board meetings. Knowledgeable about member concerns and TD operations and finances. Strong legal and financial background, with 30 years of experience resolving complex disputes. Coupled with my long-time home ownership, I’m prepared to be an effective Board member from the get-go during the difficult times ahead.
1 2 3 In your opinion, what are Tahoe Donner’s long-term issues? Where do you stand on those issues, and why?
Community Association Institute Certified Board Leader with an accomplished record of service to Tahoe Donner’s members. • Tahoe Donner Board of Directors, 2013-2016 Built Alder Creek Adventure Center Purchased 640-acre Crabtree Canyon open space Boosted capital reserves to maintain, modernize our community
Spearheaded responding to Accessory Dwelling Unit legislation to preserve our neighborhood; Vice-Chair, General Plan Committee and liaison to Finance Committee;
If elected to the board, what will be your top three areas of focus?
Courtney Murrell
Responding to financial, health and safety impacts of COVID-19 on Tahoe Donner, members and staff; avoiding undue financial burden on members as we restore our lives. Preserving quality of life: tranquility, open space, amenities and unique features that caused most of us to buy homes here, while maintaining TD as an affordable, family-friendly community. Without this focus, we run the risk of losing the very qualities that drew most of us to TD. Anticipating and responding to changes ahead: increased fire risk and availability of reasonably priced home insurance, third emergency egress, potential snow shortfalls, and changing environmental/ regulatory conditions.
• General Plan Committee, 2017-2019 • Elections Committee, 2017-2018 • Downhill Ski Lodge Task Force, 2017-2020 • Initiated, drove cost-effective Trout Creek Recreation Center expansion, 2016-2020 • Spearheaded Downhill Ski Resort snow-making project, safeguarding member enjoyment, ensuring financial health, 2014-2015 • Launched effort to install chairlift safety bars, reducing liability risk, 2007 I’m running for the board to protect Tahoe Donner’s terrific quality of life for ALL members. 1. Maximize member value, enjoyment from your Tahoe Donner home. • Great amenities, great service, great experiences. 2. Positive investments to maintain, modernize Tahoe Donner’s amenities. • Deliver the quality you expect 3. Heal divisions by focusing on shared passions that unite us together. • • • •
Mountain Recreation Beautiful Surroundings Family Community Character Fun Days, Serene Nights
Tahoe Donner is an amazing community for all generations, and I want it to be amazing for you and your family.
Looking ahead to where we will be and what we want to look like in 10 to 20 years. We need a long-term vision for Tahoe Donner as a vibrant, livable and sustainable community, economically, socially and environmentally. This includes tangible and intangible qualities such as strengthening our neighborhood connections; creating walkways and bikeways to enhance circulation in a healthy, environmentally sound way; protecting our environment; enhanced internet service; and continuing focus on what sets us apart. In short, we need to envision and plan a community that will enrich us and our families for many years to come.
1. Long-Term Financial Planning: • Fund capital reserves at levels required to maintain, modernize • Realistic planning to keep reserves in good shape • Yes to smart budgeting, no deferred maintenance, no special assessments 2. Climate Change: • Unreliable snowfall threatens Tahoe Donner finances in winter, our homes in summer • Continue snowmaking efforts as insurance policy against recreational, financial risks • Bolster region-leading defensible space, fire mitigation programs 3. Good Governance: • Fair decisions benefiting ALL homeowners without playing favorites • Strengthen board transparency, integrity • Never stop listening to you, Tahoe Donner’s members
Steve Mahoney With a 40-year career in banking and finance, graduate degree in business, and active involvement in Tahoe Donner affairs, my financial expertise, business experience, and community participation have prepared me to be a uniquely effective board member. A summary of my qualifications: • Tahoe Donner member since 2002, full-time as of Jan. 2020 • Avid skier, golfer, hiker and paddle boarder • Vice Chairman, Tahoe Donner Finance Committee • Certified Board Leader, Community Association Institute • BA, Environmental Studies & Economics, Middlebury College • MBA, Finance, University of Miami • Managing Director, Bank of America Merrill Lynch, retired Working constructively with my fellow Directors to create a strong future for Tahoe Donner, I will: • Lead thoughtfully, to ensure our new General Manager and his staff have the guidance and support they need to strengthen our community, especially as we recover from the disruption to member enjoyment and the financial health of our Association caused by the COVID-19 crisis. • Budget carefully and spend wisely, to ensure we get maximum value from our assessment dollars while we meet and exceed members’ expectations. • Plan intelligently, for sound financial decisions, well-maintained amenities, and increased member enjoyment.
Over the past several years, our community has become increasingly divided. This is Tahoe Donner’s single most important long-term issue; all other issues are subsidiary to it. • To create a strong future for Tahoe Donner, we must move forward constructively. • No matter where our primary residence, which amenities we frequent, or how we use our property, we are all equal owners, deserve equal respect and are entitled equally to our member rights. • I will seek broad member input to help inform decisions which affect member enjoyment, our real estate values, and the nature of our community.
Kristin Bohm As a practicing litigation attorney in Truckee who has worked with ski resorts, hotels, and HOAs for years, I will be well informed to address financial shortcomings, legal ramifications and complexities, and to balance varying interests and concerns among our members while promoting the overall best solutions. Having served on Boards in other capacities, one of my greatest strengths is getting along with my fellow members and working well with others to achieve a common goal. As an advocate, I’m not afraid to listen, consider arguments carefully and advance the interests I believe in after giving both sides thoughtful consideration.
1. Amenities - improve, expand and better utilize our incredible amenities while
Rob McCray • My career prepares me: 40 years of experience as an attorney, CEO, investment banker and board member to nonprofits and businesses, mostly in healthcare. I know how to create transparent, fact-based and consensus-building processes that serve the organizational mission and how to establish accountability throughout an organization. I am currently a member of the board of three nonprofits and one company board. • Part-time TD home-owner starting in 1987 (full time 2016-2018). • Chair of the Tahoe Donner General Plan Committee, working on major projects and community planning • Defender of environmental values, open space, outdoor recreation and familyfriendly neighborhoods.
• Bring Tahoe Donner successfully through the COVID financial crisis by protecting our core
considering member satisfaction. For example, our downhill ski area is suited for growth that can benefit all other amenities by becoming more profitable. 2. Financial - better utilization of dues for capital expenditures for profitability of our amenities. Small changes to facilitate growth and success without substantial increases in member dues. 3. Socialization - improve socialization and interaction among members; innovating to create socially distant events in the interim. Tahoe Donner’s reputation can be improved with better social engagement.
assets, people and future without increasing the financial burden on owners. • Establish a board-management relationship that is collaborative and committed solely to serving the interests of the entire Tahoe Donner community rather than the personal goals of some owners. We must ensure the equitable and beneficial use of owners’ capital through advance planning, with transparent and rigorous analysis of spending. • Increase owner input on major spending decisions and policies that may adversely affect the quality of living in TD.
The biggest long term challenge is managing differing member interests and working hard to ensure the satisfaction of all our members. This issue is not novel, but will continue to evolve as our community changes through these dynamic and difficult times. Tahoe Donner will continue to evolve and our Board needs to be cognizant of changing needs while considering all interests of our members. Balance, equity, practicality, transparency and fairness are what will make this organization succeed as a whole while dealing with a wide variety of interests and opinions.
• The biggest long-term issue facing Tahoe Donner is how to avoid degradation of our quality of life. The primary threats are economic and environmental. • TD owners are economically diverse. TD offers affordable living. I want to retain that affordability and avoid over-commercialization of our open space and facilities. We should avoid the financial risk and overcrowding caused by profit-seeking investments. • Climate change means greater wildfire risk and less reliable snow. We need to devote more resources to defensible space and forest health and right size investment in the ski lodge.
TAHOE DONNER NEWS |
13
FEATURE
Q+A WITH TAHOE DONNER’S NEW GENERAL MANAGER What past accomplishments are you most proud of in your career?
On May 6, 2020, the Tahoe Donner Board of Directors announced David Mickaelian as the next general manager. City manager of Healdsburg, California since 2015, Mickaelian has an expected starting date of July 13, 2020. The City of Healdsburg is a full-service City that includes Police, Fire, Community Services, Public Works, Electric, Water and Wastewater, Finance, Planning and Building Departments as well as many other amenities. This wide scope will bring multiple facets of experience to Tahoe Donner. A California native, David and his wife Michelle have two children and a dog Juno, and are excited to make the move to Truckee. We sat down (via Zoom videochat) with our new general manager to learn more about him and his future with Tahoe Donner. What attracted you to the Tahoe Donner General Manager position? I think, initially, it was the location. My family has been coming to the Tahoe area for years. As I started researching Tahoe Donner and the organization, I got more and more excited about the opportunity. I felt that, with my background beginning in community services and evolving into city management, there would be a lot of similarities between Tahoe Donner and my past professional experience. You have these amazing amenities, members who are passionate about TD and a dedicated staff. Having an opportunity to work in this environment with a committed staff seemed like a great opportunity.
Working with such a great team of individuals in Healdsburg has been an experience I will never forget. We have gone through so much together. The best example of an accomplishment we went through was when we came together as a team and evacuated the city for the Kincade Fire with very short notice. We were able to evacuate over 12,000 residents and visitors in about 6 hours. It was really a defining moment for how we, as a team, responded to an unprecedented event. More recently, creating a budget with adequate reserves to weather COVID-19 is something I’m very proud of as well. Having spent 15 years in Healdsburg building so many relationships with different councils, staff and community members is something I will always cherish. Some of the projects I will remember include completing the Memorial Bridge Rehabilitation Project, adding a roundabout at the entryway into downtown, expanding City Hall, completing a number of development agreements to create additional housing for our community and expanding our Community Services Department. What are some of your biggest non-work accomplishments? My family. My wife and I raising our son and daughter and enjoying all the adventures we have gone through are by far what I am most proud of. My daughter will be a sophomore at USF in the fall, and my son is in junior high. We really look forward to spending more time in the mountains. My wife and I got married in Ketchum, Idaho and spent about six years there before moving back to California. We are really looking forward to getting back to the mountains and enjoying all the things this region has to offer. What are you most excited about in your move to Truckee? From a Tahoe Donner perspective, I’m really excited to start working with staff. I’ve been Zooming with staff members over the past couple of weeks. I’m also eager to start building relationships with members,
board members, committees, etc. Buying a house and getting settled in with my family is also very important, especially during this uncertain time. What is your favorite way to play outdoors? My wife and I enjoy going hiking together. I’ve been fortunate to live in amazing places like Alaska, Montana, Idaho and now Sonoma County. I also love to ski, although, over the past several years, I haven’t been able to do it as much as I would like to. Fly fishing is also something I try and get away to do when I can. There aren’t a lot of opportunities to do much fly fishing where I currently live. The Truckee region has everything – water, hiking, skiing, fly fishing. So much. What do you hope to accomplish in your first 100 days at TD? It’s critical to get a sense of the operation. My style is to get an understanding and talk to staff about challenges and opportunities that may lay ahead. Getting a strategic plan adopted and creating clear goals for the organization that staff can focus on and the board can support are really important. We are all struggling with COVID-19 as we try and figure what normal looks like in the short and long term. Working through that process so we can provide the appropriate amenities and programs to the members will be important. Is there anything else? I’m eager to move my family up here and start building relationships with members and staff and getting a better understanding of the organization. You can (virtually) meet David by tuning in to the 2020 Annual Meeting of Members on June 28. Prior to the election results being announced, David will take a moment to speak via Zoom. Please note that, due to COVID-19, this meeting will be online only. Visit tahoedonner.com/events for Zoom meeting details.
THE REPORT
GIVING FUND AWARDS EIGHT SCHOLARSHIPS The Tahoe Donner Giving Fund Committee is pleased to announce the awarding of eight scholarships, listed below. These well-rounded students are absolutely amazing with good grades and heavy involvement in extracurricular activities and their local communities. Assisting with their high financial need, these students are the first generation in their families to go to college; they have clear goals and the capacity to meet them. The scholars join us in sharing our thanks to the many Tahoe Donner members who helped send these scholars to college. Note: all funds are voluntary individual donations. Please join us in celebrating the commencement of their college career.
IMPACT Scholarship Awards An IMPACT scholarship awards up to $50,000 for up to five years. The four students awarded with this scholarship are the first generation in their families to go to college and have significant financial need. This fund is supported through the extreme generosity of one seasonal Tahoe Donner homeowner.
Traditional Scholarships These scholarships are advertised to the students as one-time awards; however, if we have the funds next year, we will renew for a second year.
STUDENT COMMITTED TO
MAJOR
$50,000
UC SANTA CRUZ
BIOLOGY/PRE-MED
$50,000
UC MERCED
PSYCHOLOGY LICENSED MARRIAGE AND FAMILY THERAPIST
$50,000
UC RIVERSIDE
POLITICAL SCIENCE
$50,000
UC IRVINE
CRIMINAL JUSTICE
STUDENT COMMITTED TO
MAJOR
$1,500
ORANGE COAST COMMUNITY COLLEGE
EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION
$1,500
TRUCKEE MEADOWS COMMUNITY COLLEGE
UNDECIDED TRANSFER TO FOUR-YEAR UNIVERSITY
$3,000
CAL LUTHERAN
ENGINEERING
$3,000
UC RIVERSIDE
BIOLOGY
AMOUNT
AMOUNT
LAW
Continuing Scholarships We have the funds to continue supporting our 2019 Traditional Scholars once they submit their transcripts and interviews. What more could we ask for? Well, a couple hundred thousand dollars for other worthy students would be nice. Please consider a donation either right now or through our fundraiser in July. Donate now at tahoedonner.com/giving-fund.
TAHOE DONNER GIVING FUND ONLINE CAMPAIGN The Tahoe Donner Giving Fund appreciates your ongoing support of local non-profits and scholarships in our community. Due to restrictions associated with COVID-19, we will not hold a dinner and auction event this year. However, there is a virtual experience in the works for the later part of July. Watch for information coming soon via email and Tahoe Donner News. To support the Giving Fund today, please follow the “donate now” link at tahoedonner.com/giving-fund.
The Tahoe Donner Giving Fund is chartered by the TD Board of Directors. All contributions are voluntary tax-deductible gifts from TD members and friends. The Giving Fund is administered through the Tahoe Truckee Community Foundation. For more information on the Giving Fund or to make a contribution, visit our web page at tahoedonner.com/giving-fund. Contact tdgf@tahoedonner.com with questions or to volunteer for the committee. Thank you to our founding partner, Elements Mountain Company, for their continued support.
FOUNDING PARTNER
TAHOE DONNER NEWS |
15
THE
BUZZ OPEN OR SOON-TO-OPEN AMENITIES
BEACH CLUB MARINA
Limited Operations with Social Distancing
THE LODGE RESTAURANT & PUB Take-Out Only
BIKEWORKS
Rentals, Repair and Retail
TENNIS
Family/Household Play Only
EQUESTRIAN
Horse Boarding Only
GOLF
Driving Range Only
TRAILS
Social Distancing Required
STAGE 3 AMENITIES – NOT ALLOWED TO OPERATE AT THE TIME OF PRESS
TROUT CREEK RECREATION CENTER
NORTHWOODS CLUBHOUSE + POOL
TAHOE DONNER CAMPGROUND
RECREATION HUT + ACTIVITIES
THE STATUS OF TAHOE DONNER FACILITIES IS CHANGING RAPIDLY. VISIT TAHOEDONNER.COM FOR THE MOST UP-TO-DATE INFORMATION AND OFFERINGS.
AMENITY REOPENING PLAN We miss enjoying the amenities at Tahoe Donner as much as you do. While COVID-19 and the State of California ‘Stay at Home’ Order have kept us in our homes, the Tahoe Donner leadership team has been developing a protocol. The safety of members and staff is our highest priority, and a plan has been built to guide when and how amenities reopen upon approval from Governor Newsom and the State of California. Objectives to protect overall health, ensure corporate resilience, strive for recovery and continue frequent communication with members have been prioritized. These goals provided the grounds to safely and effectively create a reopening strategy. A timeline of reopening, categorization of amenities, and necessary criteria are outlined below:
RISK LEVELS OF SERVICES Amenities and services within Tahoe Donner vary in COVID-19 risk, reflecting the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and management's assessment.
CRITERIA NEEDED There are key factors needed to safely reopen low-risk or high-risk Tahoe Donner amenities and services. The decision-making criteria for reopening and offering services can be seen to the right.
REOPENING STEPS To ensure safety, amenities will reopen in a staggered sequence to favor low-risk businesses first and avoid unnecessary harm.
AMENITY REOPENING After much planning, this sequence will determine in which order Tahoe Donner businesses will reopen.
TENNIS FAMILY PLAY LIMITED ACCESS
BEACH CLUB MARINA
EQUESTRIAN
THE LODGE
CAMPGROUND
WATER ACCESS
BOARDING ONLY
DISTANCE DINING
BIKEWORKS
GOLF
1 WEEK AFTER STAGE 3 NEVADA COUNTY APPROVAL
REPAIRS CURBSIDE RETAIL
TROUT CREEK REC CTR
2 WEEKS AFTER STAGE 3 NEVADA COUNTY APPROVAL
NORTHWOODS POOL
1 WEEK AFTER TROUT CREEK REC CTR OPENS
DRIVING RANGE ONLY
Tahoe Donner board and staff will continue to update and adjust guidelines and forecasts as necessary in accordance with state regulations and the overall safety of members and staff. We thank you for your cooperation and perseverance during this time. For updated information on the status of reopening, please visit tahoedonner.com. TAHOE DONNER NEWS |
17
THE
BUZZ: CLUBS
4 WHEELERS CLUB TD4WD Club activities other than virtual board meetings remain shut down at this time. We will resume trail runs and other activities as soon as it is safe to do so. Check out TD4Wheelers.org for the latest information.
SENIOR ALPINE SKI CLUB What an abrupt end to our ski season, which would have included a semimiracle March and a couple of April powder-chowder days! Those of us who went on the Heavenly excursion the second week of March had a blast but didn’t know that it would be our last club ski outing. Due to the health crisis in our nation and our world, we had to cancel our club championship race as well as our end-of-the-season banquet at the Lodge. We were able to hold our virtual meeting and election of new board members online, and we welcome Stephen O’Brien and Christine Lodge as board members for the next two seasons. Bill Wang has moved into the president’s position, Jim Colbert has agreed to remain as treasurer, and Judi Cuffney will continue with communications. I think we’re all struggling during these difficult days isolated from our family and friends and worried about becoming “couch potatoes”. We pray that the health of our people and our country improves, and, hopefully, we will be able to plan summer and fall activities such as kayaking, tennis, pickleball and barbecues. Stay healthy and stay safe, all our members, neighbors and friends.
WOMEN’S GOLF CLUB Golf season is here! The Women’s Golf Club begins its Tuesday play days on June 16 at Wolf Run in Reno. June 23 will be at Lakeridge, also in Reno. The Women’s Golf Club always welcomes new members. If you would like to join us, please email tdwgclub@gmail.com.
Last month, we gave an overview of trail navigation tools and briefly touched on radios. You might be thinking, “Why do I need a two-way radio on the trail? I won’t be able to use it to reach home if I’m stuck, as their range is limited.” You should never hit the trails alone, and
QUILT CLUB
you need to communicate with people in other vehicles in your group. For example, if you need to stop quickly to see wildlife or you have vehicle issues, you would want the other cars to know. Club members David Gray and Dennis Austin have done a nice write-up discussing FRS (Family Radio Service) and GMRS (General Mobile Radio Service) and offering suggestions. Please see TD4Wheelers.org for the full article. CB radios have been used off-road for decades and are still utilized today. Amateur (ham) radios have also been used by ham radio enthusiasts and are a top choice on the Rubicon Trail because a repeater in the area allows longer-distance communication. Simple FRS walkie-talkies became available about 20 years ago but are adequate for only short distances. Most recently, GMRS radios have emerged. GMRS retains most of the simplicity of FRS but with substantially greater range. The TD4WD Club uses channel 20-20 FRS/GMRS for off-road communications.
TENNIS CLUB I would prefer to begin, rather than end, my message by saying, “See you on the courts.” This phrase has been part of our club for many years now! With so much uncertainty and the fact that I’m writing this on May 1 for a June release, I’m not certain what to share. I am hoping that, although somewhat downsized, we will be able to “socialize” at TD Tennis this summer. At this point, I can’t be any more specific than that.
Pictured are some of the masks made by the Tahoe Donner Quilt Club for employees of Tahoe Donner. The Tahoe Donner Quilt Club has been very busy making hundreds of masks for the Tahoe Forest Hospital, family and friends. Once the hospital’s needs were met, we started making masks for Tahoe Donner employees and the Gene Upshaw Cancer Center. A big thank you goes out to all the hard-working ladies of Truckee who spent hours and hours making these masks for the health and welfare of our community. For information about the Tahoe Donner Quilt Club, contact Marilyn Dundas at md11792@outlook.com.
As president of the Tahoe Donner Tennis Club, I am asking for your support again this summer. When … and I repeat, when … the facility opens, please continue your membership within our club. We would love to see you virtually, physically or even via text or email. We will keep you posted with any planned or last-minute socials that we might be able to put together. Your club appreciates your support throughout the years. Look at this situation as a bad match; we’ve all had them and have moved on to victory! Thank you for your patience and understanding during this difficult time. – Michele Forsberg, Club President
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19
THE REPORT
BASIC SERVICES
GREEN WASTE By ANNIE ROSENFELD, Tahoe Donner Director of Risk and Real Property Summer is around the corner, and now is a great time to get a jumpstart on planning your yard cleanup and defensible space work. In Tahoe Donner, trash and recycling pick-up day is Tuesday. Green yard waste carts will be picked up every other Tuesday through November 17, 2020.
JUNE
2, 16 + 30
SEPTEMBER
8 + 22
JULY
14 + 28
OCTOBER
6 + 20
AUGUST
11 + 25
NOVEMBER
3 + 17
Still need a green waste cart? Order one today at keeptruckeegreen.org.
TIPS FOR USING YOUR GREEN WASTE CART Do not use plastic bags. Place yard waste – pine needles, grass clippings, pine cones, branches and shrub materials – directly in the cart. On your collection day, place your cart curbside by 6AM with the wheels facing away from the street. The cart must be three feet away from other objects. Lids must be closed flush. Overfilled carts will not be serviced.
GREEN WASTE CARTS
Green cart service is every other week. Place yard waste directly into cart and close lid flush. Cart must be three feet away from other objects with wheels facing away from street for pickup. COVENANTS REQUIREMENT: Rolling carts are to be stored out of sight, either in a garage or underneath a side or rear deck if the property does not have a garage.
GREEN WASTE DUMPSTER
Six-yard green waste dumpsters are available by reservation for a reduced one-week rental of $75. Call TTSD to order at (530) 583-7800. Dumpster rentals sell out, so book in advance.
DUMPSTER IN TAHOE DONNER A 30-yard green waste dumpster will be coming to Northwoods Clubhouse on June 1 and will remain on site for 8 weeks. This is to help reduce the community fire hazard in the region and is for members only (no commercial use).
TRUCKEE GREEN WASTE DROP-OFF EVENTS
JUNE 19 + 26 | 8AM-2PM | TRUCKEE RODEO GROUNDS
The Town of Truckee is offering FREE drop-off for residential green waste, biomass consisting of all tree and plant trimmings, weeds, leaves and branches. No commercial green waste.
GREEN WASTE DUMPSTER REBATE Truckee Fire Protection District is providing a $75 rebate for green waste dumpster rentals. Visit truckeefire.org/defensible-space for more details. One rebate per household while program funds last.
SELF/ CONTRACTOR HAUL
Tahoe Donner homeowners and contractors can drop off yard waste at Eastern Regional Landfill (ERL) for free from May-October. Homeowners are limited to six yards of waste;
contractors need to provide a unique customer code. Load and unload yourself, and no bags. NEW: Upon first visit, residents will receive an addressspecific punch card to track drop-offs. Proof of residency with ID and utility bill are required to receive punch card.
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TAHOE DONNER NEWS |
21
45-DAY NOTICE PROPOSED CHANGES TO COVENANTS PRIVATE PROPERTY RULES: FIRE SAFETY AND SEASONAL FIRE BAN Pursuant to Tahoe Donner Covenants and
agencies’ defensible space guidelines, and
and proposed new rules must go out for
ing this item to their requirements to maintain
Restrictions Article III, Section 7, modifications 45-day member notification and comment
period prior to board of director consideration and approval.
Changes to the Covenants Private Property
Rules: Fire Safety (Covenants Rules) sections, including section 4.19 Seasonal Fire Ban and 4.21 Fire Prevention and Safety, will
be considered for action by the board of
directors. The board of directors is expected to take action to adopt the proposed new
rules and amendments, as they are presented here or with some modification, at its July board of directors meeting. The board
welcomes any input you may wish to offer
home insurance companies appear to be addinsurance. As such, staff and the commit-
tee are recommending amendments in the private property fire safety rules section of
the Covenants Rules to regulate the allowed
maximum stump height and removal of limbs and branches within 10 feet of roofs, eaves and chimneys on all structures.
KEY DATES:
new ordinances, which changed the final
numbering of the TFPD Outdoor Fire Ban Ordinance.
Since the Tahoe Donner Seasonal Fire Ban cites Ordinance 03-2019 incorrectly, we
advise modifications to the rule to correct the
referencing. There was no substantive change between the ordinance presented and the
ordinance finally adopted by the TFPD board; the change arguably falls under Civil Code
Section 4355(b) – basically a non-substantive
change. However, it is advised by legal coun-
June 1, 2020:
sel to pursue modifications of the fire ban
45-Day member notification and
through a 45-day notice and comment period
comment period begins
process.
June 26, 2020:
Purpose of Effect of Proposed Changes
additional member comment as a
The purpose of the changes would be to
regarding this process.
Board of directors meeting to hear
Section 4.19:
BACKGROUND
discussion item only.
delete the current reference in the rule to the
The Covenants Committee and Forestry
Department completed a programmatic
review of the Property Owner Defensible
Space Program, including the procedures,
rules for minimum standards and communi-
cations provided to accomplish the mission of reducing fire hazard to the community.
July 2020 – Date TBD:
Board of directors to consider acting on
proposed changes with or without some modifications.
Board meeting dates subject to change.
outdated 2019 ordinance and to instead reference any TFPD ordinance and provide the TFPD link for information. Members will not feel an effect with the proposed changes.
PROPOSED MODIFICATIONS
In this review, two areas of the Covenants
PURPOSE + EFFECTS:
The proposed changes to the Covenants
create further clarity to members for mini-
changes to section 4.21 are to:
4.19 FIRE SAFETY
Rules were recommended for changes to
mum standards of fire-safe conditions. These
recommendations for amended rules provide synergy between the inspection outcomes
and the minimum standard rules relating to
which a member must maintain their property. Additionally, through the last twelve years of the defensible space program, the Forestry Department has witnessed items that are
eyesores to the natural environment, including inappropriate tree removal leaving tall
stumps, which pose a safety issue as well as create eventual rot and combustible materials. The Forestry Department also highly recommends that limbs and branches be removed from within 10 feet of roofs and eaves on all structures, in addition to the already standing rule of removing limbs
and branches within 10 feet of a chimney or
stovepipe. These 10-foot rules appear in other
The purpose and effects of the proposed • Increase defensible space around the property
• Remove tall tree stumps, which are an eyesore, to prevent a potential safety
hazard and, as time progresses, reduce
Rules are as follows:
a. Seasonal Outdoor Woodburning Fire Ban. Tahoe Donner properties are subject to
Truckee Fire Protection District Ordinances 03-2019 which bans or regulate wood
and charcoal fires, including fireplaces and
the fuel load
barbecues, during periods designated by
consistent with defensible space standards
truckeefire.org). A violation of this any such
• Continue to improve clarity and become
Truckee Fire Protection District. (See
set forth by other agencies
ordinance shall also constitute a Tahoe
• The potential to assist owners in
Donner covenants violation.
maintaining their homeowner’s insurance
Separately, in 2019, Tahoe Donner formally
4.21 FIRE PREVENTION AND SAFETY.
intentionally references the Truckee Fire
responsible for and maintain their lots (both
Ordinance. Tahoe Donner’s rule was adopted
condition at all times. C&R Article VII, Section
during which time the district adopted other
to an established inspection cycle and/or
adopted the Seasonal Fire Ban Rule, which
a Fire Safety. Owners are required to be
Protection District’s (TFPD) Outdoor Fire Ban
improved and unimproved) in a fire-safe
in advance of TFPD’s ordinance adoption,
2. The association will inspect lots according
upon request or complaint. Insurance
companies and other agency inspectors may
require greater distances of defensible space around structures.
Minimum standards and requirements of fire-safe conditions are set forth:
i Vegetation Removal. No person
may remove or cut any tree greater than four inches in diameter (measured three feet above the ground) without first
obtaining a permit from the TDA Forestry
Department. For any tree(s) removed from the property, the maximum stump height
DISTRICT-WIDE FIRE BAN THE TRUCKEE FIRE PROTECTION DISTRICT IS IMPLEMENTING A DISTRICT-WIDE ORDINANCE TO BAN BACKYARD-TYPE CAMPFIRES DURING FIRE SEASON (ANTICIPATED RELEASE – JUNE 2020)
As we’ve all seen, the fire danger in California has continued to increase, and the Truckee area is no exception. California has seen 9 of the 20 most destructive fires in state history just in the last 5 years. Each year, the Truckee Fire District responds to unattended or improperly extinguished residential campfires that escape the fire ring and start a wildfire. If this happens on a windy day, it can be devastating to our community.
CAUSES OF EXTREME FIRE DANGER
WHAT IS ALLOWED
shall not exceed one (1) inch in height for trees less than 12 inches in diameter and
The build-up of dry fuels
Gas campfires
Significant drought
Gas portable fire pits
TDA Forestry Department. C&Rs Article
Increased human presence
Gas BBQs
ii Roofs Free of Dead Vegetation.
Visitors who don’t understand the danger
Pellet-burning devices
six (6) inches in height for trees greater than 12 inches in diameter. No heavy
equipment may be used to remove brush without first obtaining a permit from the VIII, Section 1(a) (xi).
Property owners are responsible to maintain all roofs, of any structure,
keeping them free of leaves, needles,
Escaped campfires
or other dead vegetative growth.
iii Pine Needles on the Ground. Pine
Wood pellet fuel-based BBQs and smokers that are well contained — all particles must be fully consumed to ash prior to disposal
needles must be collected and removed
within 10 feet of any structure or deck. On the rest of the property the pine needles will not be allowed to build up to more than 2 inches in depth.
iv 10-foot Clearance from Chimney or Stovepipe. Property owners are
responsible to remove any portion of any tree which extends within 10 feet of the
outlet of any chimney or stovepipe. Any tree branch within 10 feet of roofs and eaves shall be removed.
To ensure the board of directors has time to review all member comments, please
submit your written comments by email to 45daynotice@tahoedonner.com or by
US mail to Tahoe Donner Association, Attn: Annie Rosenfeld, 11509 Northwoods
WHAT IS BANNED Residential campfires/bonfires that burn anything other than gas BBQs that burn solid fuel (like charcoal briquettes, wood or lump charcoal)* Big Green Egg BBQs Briquette fuel-based smokers
WHAT IS EXEMPT Designated + private campgrounds Day-use picnic areas Community picnic areas with a valid permit Outdoor special event commercial cooking with a valid permit
Wood shavings that are generally added for flavor to smokers and gas grills (like applewood and others)
Blvd., Truckee, CA. 96161. NOTE:
Red text signifies new or amended language Strikethrough text signifies deletions
DO YOUR PART THIS FIRE SEASON TO HELP MITIGATE THE FIRE DANGER IN OUR COMMUNITY. REPORT ILLEGAL FIRES BY CALLING 911. *The district will not issue briquette BBQ permits to individual residences. Tahoe Donner will not be allowing wood/charcoal fires at the Tahoe Donner Campground or other amenities while the Truckee Fire Ban is in place.
TAHOE DONNER NEWS |
23
THE REPORT
TOWN OF TRUCKEE ROADWAY VEGETATION MAINTENANCE Tahoe Donner Roadway Vegetation Maintenance Tahoe Donner Roadway Vegetation
Maintenance Summer 2020 Roadways (42 miles) Summer 2020 Roadways (42 miles) (19 miles) Fall 2020/Summer 2021 Roadways
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Fall 2020/Summer 2021 Roadways (19 miles)
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This May, the Town of Truckee began a two-year vegetation removal project to increase defensible space on our public roads. Crews have taken to the roadways in Tahoe Donner to perform brush, vegetation and tree removal. This project was created through the Town of Truckee with consultation from the Truckee Fire Protection District and Tahoe Donner. The Town’s right-of-way includes the land containing public roadways and their immediate vicinity. This area is typically 60 feet to 80 feet wide in the Tahoe Donner subdivision. On most streets in Tahoe Donner, the Town of Truckee right-of-way extends approximately 20 feet past the paved road edge; on collector streets like Alder Creek, Northwoods and Schussing, the right-of-way is wider. All vegetation removal that is included in this project will occur within the Town-maintained right-of-way. Vegetation removal will occur within 15 feet of the edge of all roadways. The purpose of this project arose with three objectives in mind: • Improve fire resiliency • Improve road safety • Increase area for snow storage Increasing our resiliency to wildfire will be
beneficial to our community, especially as this past winter produced so little snowfall. Reducing fire fuel along roadways will help to provide a fire break in case of wildfire. “The Town is looking forward to coordinating this vegetation management effort with the Truckee Fire Protection District and Tahoe Donner Association as a means of improving fire resiliency and roadway safety in the Tahoe Donner neighborhood,” stated Truckee Public Works Director Dan Wilkins.
PROJECT SCHEDULE In total, this project features 61 miles of roadways that are scheduled for maintenance over the two-year period. 42 miles will be addressed this summer, with the remaining 19 miles of roadway planned to be addressed in late fall 2020 and summer 2021. This project will increase fire preparedness for the 6,500 properties in Tahoe Donner.
SCOPE OF VEGETATION REMOVAL All vegetation within 10 feet of the edge of paved roadways will be removed. In the area 10 to 15 feet from the paved roadway, all vegetation
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that is smaller than 14 inches in diameter will be removed, with remaining large trees having branches/limbs trimmed up to 15 feet. Multiple crews will be actively working along roadways to clear these objects. While vegetation is being removed, temporary debris stockpiles will be created at various locations along roadway shoulders. The Town’s contractor will remove these temporary debris piles routinely throughout the project. If Tahoe Donner property owners would like to collect wood from these piles for private use, you may do so as long as it is not in the middle of the contractor’s active work zone. Wood chips may be available upon request and pending project supply. Please exercise caution while maneuvering around these temporary stockpiles. Crews removing vegetation will be handling equipment during this project, so please use both caution and courtesy when driving, walking, biking or otherwise coming into contact with them. To learn more, visit townoftruckee.com/ roadwayvegetationmanagement. If you have questions, email Riley Powers, Town of Truckee Project Inspector, at rpowers@townoftruckee.com or call (530) 582-2931.
SEASON PASS
PROTECTION
SPRING SALE EXTENDED THROUGH JUNE 30 DOWNHILL
•
CROSS COUNTRY
PURCHASE CONFIDENTLY WITH TD PASS PROTECTION
•
COMBO
THANK YOU 2019/20 PASSHOLDERS | 15% OFF
Life is uncertain – rest assured and defer the full value of your pass to the next season if you decide not to ski this season for any reason.
As a token of our appreciation to our loyal customers, 2019/20 passholders will receive a discount code for 15% off the purchase of next year’s pass. Watch your email for details.
Must defer by December 10, 2020
Discount valid through June 30, 2020
AVOID THE LINES. AVOID THE SKIING BLACKOUT DATES. AVOID THE TRAFFIC. PURCHASE YOUR SKI SEASON PASS TODAY AT TAHOEDONNER.COM/SKISEASONPASS
TAHOE DONNER NEWS |
25
FEATURE
TAKE-OUT MEALS OFFERED AT
THE LODGE RESTAURANT & PUB By ALI DICKSON There is a good chance you are reading this article at home. There is also a good chance you have been making a lot of meals at home. If you live in the Truckee area and miss the days of leaving the house to experience the Lodge’s award-winning cuisine and specialty drinks, we have good news for you and your overworked kitchen! The Lodge Restaurant & Pub now offers weekend take-out orders Thursdays through Sundays from 4:30-7:30PM. Your favorite bistrostyle meals are back with the fresh ingredients and unique flavors you know and love crafted by our very own Chef Lew. At the time of press, the Lodge is closed for indoor dining, but we are hoping to safely and thoughtfully roll out a distance dining program for the summer months. To stay up to date, find the latest information at tahoedonner.com/lodge. We would like to thank our community for such a successful opening weekend in May. The Lodge’s characteristic food and drinks would not be available during this uncertain time without the diligent work of our staff and understanding of our customers to create take-out orders that hold both quality and safety. We appreciate your continuous support and dedication.
THE TEAM BEHIND THE SCENES Once given the approval, staff safely and efficiently unveiled the reopening of the Lodge’s weekend dinner and drink menu in only five days. Christen Holland, general manager of the Lodge, shares that staff have joined together to lift this project off the ground even during a period of isolation. “The cool thing about TD is, when it’s go-time, all of the departments pull together to get a job done. The Lodge team worked on the menu, schedule and COVID-19-specific logistics and sanitary practices. The IT Department helped with the software, and the communication department made it all look pretty,” says Holland. “We could not have done any of it without Miguel Sloane and Jesse Strzok pitching our ideas and projected financials to the board. Sometimes it takes a village, and I feel fortunate to work with such a cohesive team.”
KEEPING THE COMMUNITY SAFE The health of employees and customers is always Tahoe Donner’s top priority, and the Lodge has taken measures to ensure the safety of all parties involved. All staff wear masks and gloves, and stringent safety programs are implemented to make sure you feel good about where your meal comes from. Even from a distance, Holland is excited for the community to feel connected once more. “I am so excited to see the members of this great community again. The Lodge is the ‘Cheers’ of Tahoe Donner. We have great relationships with so many members and are excited to be able to serve them dinner and see their smiling faces again. We already feel extremely supported by the members.” To view the menu and order online, visit tahoedonner.com/lodge. Request your favorite appetizers, entrees, desserts and variety of drinks to pick up and enjoy right at home. Cocktails, beer, wine and sodas will be available for pickup in addition to food. To minimize close contact, no payment signatures will be required. Your food will be ready in 15-30 minutes and will be picked up right outside the front doors. In the circumstance that you need to wait in line outside to pick up your food, markers have been placed along the bridge to designate proper social distancing.
THE LODGE’S BEST DEALS When asked about the best items featured on the rotating menu, Holland was excited to share her favorites. “I am very excited about our wine prices right now! We have some great values. I can’t pick one favorite menu item because it changes weekly. There are always new and exciting options to choose from. It’s important that guests keep checking the menu regularly.” What are our personal Lodge favorites? Great cuisine on the ever-changing menu includes everyone’s favorite summer fish taco, a savory bacon cheddar turkey burger, rotating slider options and more. Because menu choices are subject to change, check back often to discover a new Lodge favorite at tahoedonner.com/lodge.
THE BEST
THURSDAY-SUNDAY 4:30-7:30PM 12850 Northwoods Blvd. Truckee, CA 96161
Barbecue Sauce IN TOWN From Alder Creek Cafe to Your Kitchen Last month marked the much-anticipated reopening of the Lodge Restaurant & Pub for take-out each Thursday-Sunday from 4:30-7:30PM. Finding dinner ideas on the weekend became easier thanks to Chef Lew and his incredible staff, but what meals can inspire you during the weekday?
GRILLED ANGUS RIBEYE STEAK
As life continues to keep families at home, many of us have taken this time to work on our culinary skills. While some have relished this time of home cooking, others are beginning to experience kitchen monotony. As the summer warms, though, a new take on dinner arises – barbecue. Grill up chicken, salmon, ribs, veggie burgers or even pineapple for that savory, smoky flavor you just can’t find in a kitchen. Then, unleash the barbecue sauce that has been a staple at the Alder Creek Cafe for years. Perfectly sweet, spicy and full of flavor, Chef David’s Honey Chipotle Barbecue sauce will take any meal to the next level. No need to thank us – just dive in.
FRESH SALAD OPTIONS
CHEF DAVID’S HONEY CHIPOTLE BARBECUE SAUCE INGREDIENTS
WINE, BEER & SPECIALTY DRINKS
1 quart ketchup 2 cups honey 2/3 cups brown sugar 1/3 cup Dijon mustard 8 oz. pineapple juice 1 cup apple cider vinegar 1 tsp. chili flakes
1 tsp. salt 1/8 tsp. black pepper 4 oz. chipotle peppers in adobo (add more if you want a spicier sauce and less if you want it to be mild)
PREPARATION
Add all ingredients into a saucepot and slowly bring to a simmer, stirring regularly. Once at a simmer, continue to cook and stir for 30 minutes. Taste and adjust seasoning and spice. Allow sauce to cool and reserve. Store in a mason jar in your refrigerator for up to six weeks.
TAHOE DONNER NEWS |
DEREK MOORE
BAKED MAC & CHEESE
27
THE REPORT
COVENANTS, COMPLAINTS + ENFORCEMENT TAHOE DONNER COVENANTS RULES QUIET HOURS
LIGHTS OUT
PETS ON LEASH
NO DRONES
NO SMOKING
NO CAMPING
Loud music, barking dogs and late-night partying are prohibited from 10PM-7AM.
Enjoy the mountain stars and minimize light pollution by turning off outdoor lighting after 10PM.
Pets must be on a leash at association facilities and must be within voice control on Truckee streets. Don't forget to pick up after Fido, too.
Smoking is prohibited on association-owned property, including facilities, parking lots and open spaces.
LOCK UP TRASH
Drones are prohibited on association-owned property, including the trail system and all open space, unless authorized by Tahoe Donner management.
No camping on private residences, including in tents, cars, garages, RVs, etc.
INOPERABLE VEHICLES
All trash must be stored in your bear-proof container and never placed in neighbors’ containers or dumped anywhere in Tahoe Donner.
No dilapidated, unlicensed or inoperable vehicle, trailer, boat, airplane, recreational vehicle or commercial vehicle shall be stored on the properties, except within a fully enclosed structure.
PARKING
NO DUMPING
Parking vehicles off-pavement, on another person’s property or on access easements is prohibited.
HOW TO MAKE A COVENANTS COMPLAINT 1
Call (530) 414-8166. Phone is staffed from 8AM-5PM with an after-hours answering service from 5PM-8AM.
2
Email compliance@tahoedonner.com.
3
Submit at onestop.tahoedonner.com.
Leaving unwanted or “free” items on the street or association-owned property, including furniture or sports equipment, is prohibited.
WHAT INFORMATION TO PROVIDE When making a complaint, be prepared to provide: • Your name, address and email • Address of property being complained about • Nature of complaint with times occurring • Evidence: photos, video, etc • How this behavior is affecting you • What actions have been taken (e.g., called police)
WHAT HAPPENS NEXT Tahoe Donner will make every effort to contact the owner of the property being complained about, share details about the complaint and request voluntary compliance. We will: • Call the primary phone number on file and speak to the owner or leave a message. • If no answer, call additional phone numbers on file to speak with or leave messages for owner or designated contact. • Email the owner via any email on file. • Send follow-up email to the complainant confirming attempts to contact owner.
THE REPORT
BRIEFS TRUCKEE TOMORROW DONATION TO RESILIENCE FUND ASSISTS SMALL BUSINESSES Truckee Tomorrow, a public and private partnership between the Truckee Chamber of Commerce, the Town of Truckee and private investors, donated $100,000 to the new Resilience Fund. This fund, supported and administered by the Sierra Business Council, was created to provide financial assistance, resources and guidance to small businesses in the Truckee North Tahoe area that have incurred or project to incur significant financial loss due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Donated and invested money helps fund businesses as low-interest microloans ranging from $5,000 - $25,000. Involved businesses also will have access to a network of professional consultants to maximize productivity and strategize existing operations during closures. This is a unique fund created "for the community, by the community". To learn more about the Resilience Fund – Sierra, become an investor or apply for assistance, visit resiliencefund.org. For more information about Truckee Tomorrow and its investment in the Resilience Fund, visit truckee.com/resiliencefund.
17TH ANNUAL TRUCKEE DAY JUNE 6, 8AM-12PM Truckee Day is a town-wide street clean-up and civic pride day. Check-in stations are open from 8-10AM to get your materials, volunteer t-shirt and additional necessities and swag. Pre-registration is not required. All clean-up must be completed by 12PM to ensure trash bags are picked up that day. Truckee Day organizers have taken the COVID-19 pandemic and State of California
'Stay at Home Order' into consideration as they plan this year's event. Please visit their website at truckeeday.org for the latest updates.
HOMES ON THE RISE The Architectural Standards Committee reviewed the following plans in April 2020.
BOAT REGISTRATION UPDATES FOR DONNER LAKE In 2020, all boat owners are now required to self-inspect their watercraft prior to launching. A self-inspection must be completed prior to receiving a Donner Lake 2020 sticker. Once the form is complete, owners will bring their completed form to the Police Department to be signed. Upon completion, a registration sticker will be issued.
PLEASE REMEMBER TO STAY OFF MUDDY TRAILS The Tahoe Donner trails are still very muddy and, in some places, covered in snow. Please allow the trails to dry before use. This helps prevent erosion and keeps our trail system in great condition! Please also remember to maintain a six-foot social distance when outdoors and follow Centers for Disease Control and California Department of Public Health protocols.
CONTINUING TO HELP PROTECT TD STAFF + MEMBERS We want to give another huge “thank you” to ‘Chelle Sonder, Member Services manager, and Marilyn Dundas, member of the Tahoe Donner Quilt Club, for their continued volunteer efforts during this COVID-19 pandemic. Together, ‘Chelle, Marilyn and the Tahoe Donner Quilt Club sewed 130 face coverings last month for Tahoe Donner employees. Staff will now stay protected while performing essential duties. We appreciate your time and hard work to keep our team safe!
UNIT/LOT ADDRESS
SQ. FT.
PROJECT
10/228 13107 Roundhill Drive
2,440
House
10/235 13011 Roundhill Lane
3,808
House
03/490 14654 Skislope Way
3,993
House
COVENANTS VIOLATIONS HEARINGS
The Covenants Committee did not conduct any hearings in April 2020.
SIGN UP FOR TAHOE DONNER TEXT ALERTS BE IN THE KNOW WITH TIMELY SAFETY MESSAGING, INCLUDING NOTES ABOUT FIRE SAFETY AND EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS.
SIGN UP AT TAHOEDONNER.COM/SUBSCRIBE
TAHOE DONNER NEWS |
29
THE REPORT
COVID-19 UPDATE
AVAILABLE SERVICES + TIPS FOR STAYING WELL CDC GUIDELINES TO PROTECT YOURSELF
IF YOU GO OUTSIDE FOR EXERCISE, DO SO IN THE SAFETY OF YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD AND OBSERVE THE FOLLOWING GUIDELINES FROM THE CENTERS FOR DISEASE CONTROL AND PREVENTION:
COVER YOUR FACE
• You could spread COVID-19 to others even if you do not feel sick. • Everyone is recommended to wear a cloth face cover when in public places, such as the grocery store. • Cloth face coverings should not be placed on children under the age of 2, anyone who has trouble breathing or anyone unable to remove the mask without assistance. • Cloth face covers are meant to protect other people in case you may be infected. • Do NOT use a face mask meant for a healthcare worker. • Continue to keep 6 feet of distance between yourself and others. Face covers are not substitutes for social distancing.
AVOID CLOSE CONTACT
• Keep your distance from people who may be sick or at a 6 FEET higher risk of getting sick. • Stay close to your home to reduce the spread of infection to outside communities. • Maintain distance between yourself and any other person. Exercising can spread a virus farther than 6 feet due to forceful breathing; increase social distance by at least 15 feet if you do exercise outdoors. • Exercise in open spaces or areas that are not heavily trafficked.
PRACTICE SAFE HYGIENE
• No matter what you do outdoors, avoid touching items whenever possible. The virus can live on surfaces long enough for you to become sick upon exposure. Places such as playgrounds and public bathrooms should be avoided when possible. • If you do need to touch public objects, use gloves or disinfecting wipes. Use a hand sanitizer with at least 60 percent alcohol afterward, and wash your hands when available with soap and water.
PRIORITIZE OUTDOOR TIME
• Stay home as much as possible. If you need to exercise outdoors, keep your time limited to reduce exposure of yourself and others. • When heading outside, do not exercise with anyone you are not currently living with. Friends and family can be contacted through phones, video chats and other online services.
DISINFECT AFTERWARD
• After exercising outside of your home, clean and disinfect doorknobs, handles, keys, light switches and anything else you may have touched after coming inside. • Wash your hands and any clothing or object that may have been exposed to COVID-19.
While some Tahoe Donner facilities and amenities have reopened in strict accordance with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the State of California, many remain closed due to COVID-19 restrictions. Staying home is encouraged unless essential needs are required, such as groceries, medical attention, or exercise. We all play a part in minimizing the spread of the virus, and we thank you for all your efforts and sacrifices to do so. Management and the board of directors continue to discuss the impact of the virus to operations and are preparing financial and operational modeling now to set plans in place for modified operations and services this summer, dependent on state and local mandates. Tahoe Donner staff are continuing essential functions remotely and/or in strict accordance with safety guidelines for on-site staff as allowed under the executive order. Essential staff are available via email or phone number.
MEMBER SERVICES
For general questions and information, email Member Services at info@tahoedonner.com or call (530) 587-9400.
ARCHITECTURAL STANDARDS
For questions and assistance on rules and regulations, email aso@tahoedonner.com or call (530) 587-9407.
ACCOUNTING
For questions on annual assessments or accounting issues, email tdaccounting@tahoedonner.com or call (530) 587-9417.
FORESTRY
For questions concerning land management or forestry issues, email forestry@tahoedonner.com or call (530) 587-9432.
AMENITIES
For questions about the current status of Tahoe Donner amenities, please visit tahoedonner.com. Please note that we will be monitoring emails with regularity. However, with limited staff available, we cannot promise an immediate response. Visit tahoedonner.com for the most up-to-date information on facilities and services. Thank you for your patience. At this time, Tahoe Donner will also continue to provide maintenance and security duties for the association.
BOARD MEETING RECAPS BOARD OF DIRECTORS MEETING April 25, 2020 ACTION: Consent Calendar, 5-0 • Removed Executive Sessions Reports and Removed Decision Paper for Forestry Truck ACTION: Association Update, No action DISCUSSION: GM Update DISCUSSION: Election Update ACTION: Town of Truckee Presentation: Donner Pass Road East End Traffic Study, No action ACTION: TSSA-1 Fund/Town Transportation Projects, No action ACTION: Capital Projects, No action ACTION: Nature Loop Construction, 5-0
BOARD OF DIRECTORS MEETING May 16, 2020 ACTION: Consent Calendar, 5-0 ACTION: Committee/Task Force Reports, 5-0 DISCUSSION: GM Update ACTION: Association Update, No action DISCUSSION: Elections Update • Amended draft annual meeting agenda ACTION: Recreation Fee • No Refund for 2019-2020 Rec Fee, 5-0 • Refunding or crediting 2020-2021 Rec Fee moved to next open meeting in June • Opening of amenities, 5-0 ACTION: Proposed Modifications to Covenants Fire Safety Rules Request for 45-Day Notice, 5-0 ACTION: TSSA-Fund Letter, 5-0 ACTION: Modification of Board Resolution 2014-1, Tabled to next open meeting in June, 3-2 DISCUSSION: Draft Strategic Plan 2020, No action See full minutes at tahoedonner.com/boardmeetingdocs. To provide feedback to help improve the overall association, please submit your comments and concerns to tahoedonner.com/feedback.
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31
WHERE I N
T H E
WORLD IS TD NEWS?
HANOI, VIETNAM Don and Josh Routh, along with Dennis Giacovelli, in Hanoi while delivering more than 500 wheelchairs throughout the country with a group of Vietnam veterans.
CAPE POINT, SOUTH AFRICA Scott, Keenan and Dana Davol-Muxen went hiking at Cape Point while visiting outside Cape Town for their oldest son’s wedding.
KAUAI, HAWAII Kat Severin and her son, Buck Connor, visited Waimea Canyon, Kauai to escape the snow last winter. Note the rainbow in the background!
THE HALLSTATT SEE, AUSTRIA Marci and Gary Alvey enjoyed the Hallstatt See—yes, it’s See— next to the town of Hallstatt in the region of Salzkammergut, Austria during a weeklong trip with their winemaking friends.
SUBMIT YOUR PHOTOS Email your “Where in the World” photos to comdep@tahoedonner.com. Please submit only JPG files of 300 dpi for printing. Photos must include a copy of TD News. Please list the names of everyone in the picture, where it was taken and a short description. Note: please be patient; it could take several months to see your photo published.
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PARK CIT Y | NEWPORT BEACH | SAN FR ANCISCO | TRUCKEE DONNER | MAR IN | NAPA | L AGUNA BEACH ©2020 Engel & Völkers. All rights reserved. Each brokerage independently owned and operated. Engel & Völkers and its independent License Partners are Equal Opportunity Employers and fully support the principals of the Fair Housing Act. If your property is currently represented by a real estate broker, this is not an attempt to solicit your listing. CA DRE License #01399851
TAHOE DONNER ASSOCIATION 11509 NORTHWOODS BLVD. TRUCKEE, CA 96161
Embracing our homes and families and looking forward to rebuilding our community with clients, friends and neighbors.
Whether you spend a day, a week, a month or all year here, we look forward to personally being together again soon. All of us at Dickson Realty are available to help you at any time with all of your real estate needs, virtually or in real time. We’re so looking forward to “Welcome back Truckee-Tahoe”! We expect to see more families coming to our area now that so many are finding the advantages of “working remotely”. If you are considering a life change, we're here to be your advocate and advisor.
11836 Donner Pass Road, Truckee 100 Northstar Drive, Truckee 289 Commercial Street, Portola 530.587.7444 | DicksonRealty.com