Interview with Association President Sam Javelosa - Optimism for 2025

The year 2024 tested the resilience and unity of the Board of Directors and the broader community, but as the calendar turns, there’s a renewed sense of hope and momentum. Sam, the President of the HOA Board of Directors, reflects on the challenges overcome and shares an optimistic outlook for 2025, emphasizing the theme of ‘community” and “focus on priorities” as the guiding principles for the year ahead.

From Challenges to Synergy

“We are poised as a strong community and organization heading into 2025.” Sam says. “I am truly grateful for the collective efforts and contributions of the Board, Committees, Clubs, Staff, volunteers and the community in leveraging this synergy to achieve results this year. The Board, Committees, and volunteers successfully navigated through significant hurdles.”

“Despite these challenges, the Board has remained resilient,” Sam states. “What truly matters- achieving consensus despite differences and setting aside self-interests for the common good.” This unified approach and transparency has enabled the Board to make difficult decisions, address pressing issues, and positioned the Association to thrive in a very challenging year.

Progress and Priorities

The focus for 2025 is clear: infrastructure, maintenance of the lakes and common areas, and responsible management of community assets. This renewed commitment reflects lessons learned from the past year, during which progress often felt slow and delayed. The decision to partner with City Property Management was pivotal in accelerating progress. Sam said, “City Property and Steve Burns as General Manager have been monumental in chipping away at the to-do list. If you notice, things are getting done.” This momentum enables the Board to move beyond the turbulence of 2024 and focus on key maintenance areas. As Sam puts it, “It is time to address the community common areas. I see that as very hopeful and positive.”

The Heartbeat of the Community

While 2024 was a year of structural improvements and organizational adjustments, the Board President highlights the vital role of community clubs in creating a sense of belonging and purpose. “The clubs are the glue that makes the community stick together and thrive,” Sam says. “Despite our financial climate, they’ve built cohesiveness and a sense of connection, which is the true definition of a community.”

The success of these clubs has been a highlight for Sam, underscoring their importance in creating a vibrant and supportive environment for residents.

Gratitude and a Call to Action

Reflecting on the community’s patience and support during a year of change, Sam extends a heartfelt thanks on behalf of the Board. “Thank you for your patience and support during the transition to City Property.” Sam also encourages residents to reimagine their role in shaping the community’s future. “I want to encourage everyone to be more creative and think about what we can achieve together at the next level. Volunteer, participate— it makes for a more effective and focused organization.” This collaborative spirit, Sam believes, will enable the Board and the community to execute and implement plans for the future with greater clarity and effectiveness.

Continuous Learning

Despite the progress and significant cost savings achieved this year by integrating systems and processes into one platform and reducing admin costs, we did have errors and mistakes during this transition. I appreciate the feedback and comments from residents who brought these issues to our attention so they can be addressed and resolved. The Board has made and will make decisions that some may not agree with. The Board will continue to seek input on issues to assess alternatives and ultimately make decisions that serve the community’s best interests. Learning from mistakes and criticism is vital to the health of the organization.

A Shared Vision for 2025

Sam reiterates the importance of unity, collaboration, and a shared sense of purpose as the community approaches the new year. “Community seems to be the word that describes the ‘State of the Ranch’ and how we approach 2025,” Sam concludes. With steady leadership from City Property Management, a well-functioning Board, and the enduring strength of its clubs and residents, the HOA is entering 2025 with optimism and determination. The goal is clear: to continue building a thriving, connected community that reflects why Dobson Ranch is a great place to call home. For the residents and the Board of Directors, 2025 isn’t just another year—it’s an opportunity to move forward together and stronger than ever before.

Interviewed by Chad Turner