October 2024 - Ranchers' RoundUp

Ranchers’

RoundUp

OCTOBER 2024

The Official Publication of the Dobson Ranch Homeowners Association

Upcoming Events in October | page 8

The Future-Your Voice Matters! | page 15

Conservation Corner - Checklist | page 16

COVER:

ALMA SCHOOL RD & THE CITY OF MESA PLAN IN ACTION

THE DOBSON ASSOCIATION

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THE DOBSON ASSOCIATION

TABLE OF CONTENTS

OCTOBER 2024

ADMINISTRATION OFFICE 2719 S. Reyes, Mesa, AZ 85202 480-831-8314 Monday through Friday: 9:00 am - 5:00 pm Closed Saturday, Sunday and Holidays LA CASITA RECREATION CENTER 2719 S. Reyes, Mesa, AZ 85202 480-831-7464 Monday through Friday: 8:00 am - 9:00 pm Saturday through Sunday: 8:00 am - 9:00 pm

UPCOMING EVENTS PAGE 8, 9 & 10

6 | A MESSAGE FROM ASSOCIATION TREASURER Association Treasurer - Stephanie Fee

7 | MESSAGE FROM GENERAL MANAGER

LA CASITA POOL 2719 S. Reyes, Mesa, AZ 85202 Monday through Sunday: 8:00 am - 9:00 pm Holidays: Closed SARATOGA POOL 2345 S Saratoga, Mesa, AZ 85202 Monday through Sunday: 8:00 am - 9:00 pm Holidays: 8:00 am - 9:00 pm LOS ALTOS POOLS 2524 W. Campo Alegre Monday through Sunday: 8:00 am - 9:00 pm Holidays: 8:00 am - 9:00 pm

City Property Management - Steve Burns

8 | UPCOMING EVENTS IN OCTOBER

Spooktacular, Movie Night & Pumpkin Patch

10 | RANCH-WIDE GARAGE SALE & CLEAN UP Saturday, November 2

11 | WATER AND LAKES

Management of Plants & Insects in Lake Communities

15 | VICE MAYOR FRANCISCO HEREDIA

Your Voice Matters! Help Shape Mesa’s Future!

16 | CONSERVATION CORNER Irrigation Control, Leaks, & Water Conservation

dobsonranchhoa.com ON THE COVER: Landscape improvements on Alma School Road

THE DOBSON ASSOCIATION

IF YOU NEED ASSISTANCE PLEASE CONTACT THE ADMINISTRATION OFFICE DIRECTLY WITH CONCERNS, COMMENTS OR SUGGESTIONS. ADMINISTRATION & MAINTENANCE hoa.admin@dobsonranch.com communications@dobsonranch.com collections@dobsonranch.com compliance@dobsonranch.com Tonya Gallagher, Front Desk Administrator Marc Diaz, Landscape & Maintenance Supervisor Akina Trimmer, Accounting Manager Jonathan Lefler, Code Compliance Specialist Chad Turner, Communications Administrator RECREATION & LIFESTYLE recreation@dobsonranch.com Jackie Hutton, Recreation Facilities Supervisor Dion Jaramillo, Recreation Lead Jessi Feltmann, Preschool Teacher Bari Watnick, Preschool Assistant Ranchers’ Roundup: The articles and comments in this monthly publication are intended to inform, illustrate or provide explanation to members of the Association, and do not necessarily serve as official opinions of the Board of Directors, staff, nor its members. As such, we do not make any representation as to the validity or qualifications For the most accurate andorup to date info please of any advertiser contributor.

subscribe to our weekly email updates.

CLICK HERE TO SUBSCRIBE! 3

HOA NEWS & UPDATES REPORT FROM SEPTEMBER 2024

756 - Total Violations 421 - First Violations 129 - Second Violations 206 - Three or more Violations SECTION 1.3 ARCHITECTURAL ALTERATIONS AND IMPROVEMENTS - 3 SECTION 2.4 EXTERIOR COLORS - 299 SECTION 2.5 OUTSIDE LIGHTING - 1 SECTION 2.5.1 HOLIDAY LIGHTS AND DECORATIONS - 14 SECTION 2.7 FENCES AND GATES - 14 SECTION 2.7.2 UNIFORM PAINTING - 19 SECTION 2.9.1 BANNERS - 2 SECTION 2.13 WINDOWS AND AWNINGS - 2 SECTION 2.14 CARE OF PROPERTIES - 163 SECTION 2.15 RUBBISH AND DEBRIS - 31 SECTION 2.16 VISIBLE YARD AREAS - 30 SECTION 2.17 TREES - 149 SECTION 2.20 TRASH BIN STORAGE - 2 SECTION 2.23.1 ROOF MAINTENANCE -6 SECTION 2.24 MAILBOXES - 2 SECTION 2.25 GARAGES AND CARPORTS - 1 SECTION 2.26.1 VEHICLES - 10 SECTION 2.26.3 STORING OF VEHICLES - 3 SECTION 2.27 WATERCRAFT - 4

OCTOBER 2024

DOBSON RANCH BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Sam Javelosa

Stephanie Fee

Holly Prasetio

Association President

Treasurer

Secretary

Sandy Murray

Christa Tropin

Bradley Bettencourt

Director

Director

Director

Michael Snedeker

Sandra Rogers

Katelyn Noble

Director

Director

Director

HEAT MAP FOR ALL VIOLATIONS

If you would like to contact the Board of Directors, please email BOD@DobsonRanch.com

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THE DOBSON ASSOCIATION

IMPORTANT CONTACTS JOIN THE CLUB

FAMILY ENGAGEMENT CLUB & MOM’S CLUB Christa Tropin, Chairperson at ctropin@dobsonranch.com.

DOBSON RANCH COMMUNITY CLUB Kate O’Hara, Chairperson at azkateo@gmail.com.

WRITERS CLUB James Leth, Chairperson at author@jamesleth.com.

LINE DANCING CLUB & HIKING CLUB Barbara Stout, Chairperson at stoutgeo@gmail.com.

RETIREES’ CLUB Jean Brown, President at jeansponderbrown@gmail.com BRIDGE CLUB Susan Toevs, Chairperson - suzila@aol.com RETIREES’ CYCLING CLUB Tuesday Rides: Kim Zeman azbearluvr@hotmail.com Friday Rides: Dennis Stewart - d.j.Stewart@cox.net PICKLEBALL CLUB Rich Bitner at rebitner@cs.com WOMEN’S CLUB Patty Smith, President at smiths1975@cox.net.

OCTOBER 2024

SMALL BUSINESS CLUB Nikki Ausdemore 480-628-6730 nikki@orangeblossombookkeepingaz.com.

YACHT CLUB Wes Ver Woert, Chairman at WesV56@gmail.com.

DEMOCRATS & FRIENDS CLUB George Tihanyi at 480-792-6746 REPUBLICANS CLUB Michelle Masters, Chairperson at DobsonRanchGOP@gmail.com.

INDEPENDENTS CLUB Jack Wagner, Chairman at golfingjack@msn.com.

YOYO CLUB Chad Robinson, Chairman at dryoyoclub@gmail.com.

Instagram @dryoyoclub.

LA CASITA PRESCHOOL PARENTS CLUB Krysta Rader, at rakerkrysta@gmail.com

Committees & Sub-Associations

CC&R COMMITTEE (AD-HOC) Chairperson - OPEN BUDGET & FINANCE COMMITTEE Spencer Jarvis, Chairperson at jarvis.spencer@gmail.com.

ARCHITECTURAL COMMITTEE Sandy Murray, Chairperson at smurray@dobsonranch.com.

MASTER PLANNING COMMITTEE Tim McElrath, Chairperson at tim@mcelrath.me.

RECREATION COMMITTEE Jeanne Smith Chairperson - jsmith3440@gmail.com WATER & LAKE MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE Chairperson - OPEN PRESCHOOL COMMITTEE Christa Tropin, Chairperson at ctropin@dobsonranch.com POLICY COMMITTEE (AD-HOC) Holly Prasetio, Chairperson at hprasetio@dobsonranch.com

Dobson Bay Club • Ogden Mgmt. • 480-622-3445 Dobson Ranch Condos • United HOA • 480-567-9791 Dobson Glen • Trestle Mgmt. • 480-422-0888 Dobson Greens • Self Managed • 480-839-9079 Dobson Villas • Peterson Company • 480-513-6846 Laguna Village • Brown Community Mgmt. • 480-839-8013 Lake Park Village • Tri-City Property Mgmt. • 480-844-2224 The Landings • Brown Community Mgmt. • 480-339-8806 Legante Paseo • Trestle Mgmt. • 480-422-0888 Water Works • Associated Property Mgmt. • 480-941-1077 Wood Creek Townhomes • City Property • 602-437-4777

City Contacts Vice Mayor Francisco Heredia – District 3 District3@mesaaz.gov - 480-644-3003 Animal Control (Cruelty, Barking) - 480-644-2268 Code Compliance - 480-644-2061 Utilities, Solid Waste & Water - 480-644-2221 Graffiti Hotline - 480-644-3083 Housing, Community Development - 480-644-3536 Mesa Public Library - 480-644-3100 Mesa Fire & Medical, Non-Emergency - 480-644-2400 Mesa Parks & Recreation - 480-644-2211 Mesa Police Department, Non-Emergency - 480-644-2211 Mesa Police Headquarters/Info - 480-644-2324 Fiesta Patrol Division - 480-644-2614 THE DOBSON ASSOCIATION

Neighborhood Outreach - 480-644-5700 Household Hazardous Materials Center - 480-644-4463 Green Pool Issue - 602-506-6616 Streetlight Hotline - 480-644-3191 Transportation (Street Lights, Potholes) - 480-644-2160 Transit - 480-644-5541 Volunteer - 480-644-5432 Utility Emergency (Water) - 480-644-2262 Crime Prevention/Neighborhood Watch - 480-644-2539 AZ Blue Stake - 602-263-1100 Salt River Project - 602-236-8888 Homeless Liaison Officer Cook - 480-228-1449

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MESSAGE FROM THE TREASURER

OCTOBER 2024

Greetings Dobson Residents!

It has been a year of change at Dobson Ranch—New Board, new staff, and now a new financial managing agent. We are excited to have a local company to assist the Association with financial management and provide a community manager.

recommend keeping three months of operating expenses in an operating savings fund for emergencies. The average monthly expenses for Dobson Ranch are $250,797, so we are just $57,707 shy of that goal. We have been fortunate to gain interest income in both operating savings ($16,825) and reserves ($63,226). We are rebuilding the treasury for Dobson Ranch.

We have completed eight months of financial reporting, and the August preliminary financials indicate that total operating expenses for the year are $45,154 under budget overall.

However, the Association has experienced several expenses that were not anticipated this year. The largest variance is in legal expenses: $68,342 was expensed in Attorney collection fees, which is $51,675 more than budgeted. This function includes the pursuit of collecting assessments from homeowners who have not paid their assessments, the cost of liens, the establishment of payment plans, and court actions if required. Hint: Please pay your assessments promptly; collecting those funds costs you and the Association more than it should. If you are experiencing a hardship, please contact the office to make payment arrangements.

As explained in November 2023 Town Hall Meeting, the Board outlined the many projects completed through the Reserves and capital projects; many of these were muchneeded projects on the Ranch. All funds are accounted for, and there were no “missing” funds. So, any rumors you may have heard via word of mouth or on social media are incorrect. If you want to refresh your memory, you can find the presentation on the website at www.

DobsonRanchHOA.com/financial-audits.

General Counsel attorney fees have also exceeded the budget by $19,083 to date. The Board hired an Employment Attorney this year to provide an added layer of expertise, as no HR professional is currently on staff. This action was not a budgeted item. There was also a recall which was not budgeted and cost the Association $23,535. Lake chemicals for algaecide treatments and lake dye for preventative measures are over budget. Fertilizer herbicides for weed control expenses are over budget by $6,336; chlorine costs increased and exceeded budget by $12,299. As mentioned earlier, we have completed eight months of financial reporting and still have four more months in the year to be accounted for.

The good news is that the Association has funded the reserves each month and has contributed $333,332 to date. In addition, $252,948 was transferred to operating savings from the capital fund, bolstering operating savings to $694,682. Most auditors 6

We are striving to prepare a realistic budget for 2025.

The process is just beginning with Budget and Finance and the Board of Directors. Even with a decrease in inflation rates, costs have not decreased. Keep in mind the properties in the community are aging and need attention. We may be delayed in finalizing all contract information for the coming year. Still, with the assistance of City Properties, I am confident we can complete it by the end of October or mid-November at the latest.

Did you know you can watch the Budget and Finance Committee Meetings online? www.dobsonranchhoa.com/ broadcast. See the website calendar for dates and times.

Always remember that there are volunteer opportunities at the Ranch – help with volunteer-driven events, committees always need members, and before you know it, April will be here, and you’ll have an opportunity to run for the Board.

Meanwhile, your current volunteer Board is hard at work trying to make Dobson Ranch a great place to call home.

Stephanie Fee Association Treasurer THE DOBSON ASSOCIATION

GENERAL MANAGER MESSAGE Hello, Dobson Ranch residents!

It is with great excitement and a deep sense of honor that I introduce myself as your new General Manager. My name is Steve Burns, and I am thrilled to join this vibrant established community. I look forward to working closely with the Board of Directors and the on-site staff to continue building upon the strong foundation of Dobson Ranch. Together, we will ensure the community thrives for generations to come.

As your General Manager, my role is to implement the policies set by the Board of Directors and oversee the operations, services, and programs laid out in the contract with the association. My job is to ensure that initiatives run smoothly, provide advice and information to assist the board in their decision-making, and maintain open communication with residents.

For those wondering about the scope of a community association manager’s responsibilities, my tasks span several key areas, and while the list is extensive, below are some of the general duties I’ll be handling with the City Property team.

Financial Operations

Overseeing the financial health of Dobson Ranch by managing assessment collection, paying bills, drafting financial reports, and assisting with budgets. I will also be heavily involved in maintaining the reserve study, which ensures our community property has the funding necessary for long-term upkeep, and keep the Board informed on the association’s overall financial health.

Administrative Duties

I will be organizing and attending annual meetings, board meetings, and committee meetings. It is also our responsibility to maintain accurate records, including meeting minutes and financial statements, that can be found on the City Property Homeowner Portal.

OCTOBER 2024

painting, while coordinating the upkeep of our grounds to ensure the beauty and functionality of our common area.

While these responsibilities are numerous, there are a few things to keep in mind about my role. As a manager, I am not a board member, though I work closely with the Board as an advisor. I also assist in addressing any conflicts or questions from residents but am primarily here to ensure association rules are followed, not to act as a mediator in homeowner disputes.

It is important to understand that I will regularly inspect the community and monitor the work of service providers, but I may not catch every issue. My role is to report findings and recommendations to the Board, which will make decisions based on the best interest of the community. Ultimately, policy-setting is the responsibility of the Board, while I ensure its execution.

A little bit more about me: I come from a background in hospitality management and spent four years on-site at Desert Ridge, a large master-planned community in North Phoenix. In June 2023, I joined City Property and managed a large condominium association in North Scottsdale until now. I hold several professional credentials in community management, including CMCA, AMS, and CAAM, and am actively working toward my PCAM designation.

As an Arizona native, I am deeply invested in the success of local communities, and I am eager to contribute to the continued success of Dobson Ranch. I look forward to meeting all of you in the coming weeks and collaborating with both the Board and residents to ensure we not only meet but exceed the expectations of this incredible community.

Thank you for this opportunity!

Sincerely, Steve Burns CMCA®, AMS®, CAAM®

Building Maintenance and Grounds Upkeep

I’ll be working with on-site staff to oversee building and facilities maintenance tasks like cleaning, landscaping, and THE DOBSON ASSOCIATION

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THE DOBSON ASSOCIATION

THE DOBSON ASSOCIATION

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THE DOBSON ASSOCIATION

WATER & LAKES

OCTOBER 2024

MANAGEMENT OF PLANTS AND INSECTS IN LAKE COMMUNITIES When managing aquatic plants and insects in lake communities, lake managers consider three methods of control: 1. Manual control, which involves using equipment to remove aquatic weeds and plants.

2. Biological control involves using aquatic organisms to consume aquatic weeds and non-desirable insects.

3. Chemical control is effective but less desirable in terms of cost and duration of control.

Several species of fish are stocked in the lake to minimize the use of insecticides and herbicides, while other species are in the lake to provide game fish for a catch-and-release fishing program.

Goldfish (Carassius auratus) Goldfish are members of the minnow family. They are highly adaptable animals, capable of tolerating a wide variety of chemical conditions, temperatures, foods, and spawning conditions. They tend to plow along the bottom of a pond to dislodge food. This action is advantageous because the larva (immature form) of the midge fly lives in the upper layer of sediment at the lake bottom.

Thus, goldfish are an important natural predator of the midge. If the midge larvae are consumed, the adult swarms along the lake will be reduced.

Grass Carp or White Amur (Ctenopharyngodon idellus) The grass carp or White Amur is a hardy species that originated in the rivers of Asia (The Amur River). It was first introduced into the United States in 1963 because THE DOBSON ASSOCIATION

the fish are considered exotic; only sterile fish can be stocked. The grass carp is very tolerant of temperature extremes that are common in Arizona lakes. This fish is a voracious eater of aquatic weeds. It can become very large, weighing up to 40 pounds when adequate food is available.

The fish will serve as a mechanism for controlling submerged macrophytes and algae mats in the lake.

Fathead Minnow (Pimephales promelas): Fathead minnows feed on detritus and algae that feed on the soft bottom of lakes. They will also consume insects and larvae, including those of mosquitoes and midges, near the water surface. They are food for most predacious fish. The nesting habits of the fish involve the eggs being attached to an object situated somewhere above the lake bottom, typically to the underside. The open tubes of the artificial habitat should provide ideal sites for egg laying.

Redear Sunfish (Lepomis microlophus): These sunfish tend to feed breed and generally remain in deeper waters. As biological control agents, they feed on microcrustaceans, chironomid (midge fly) larvae, and clams.

Zach Hache Aquatic Consulting (www.aquaticconsulting.com)

Zach is an experienced Field Biologist with a demonstrated history of wetland and arid environmental projects.

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ACTIVITIES WATER AEROBICS

When: Monday - Thursday (June 3 - October 3) Where: La Casita Recreation Center Pool Time: 7:30 am - 8:20 am Instructors: Becky and Chuck. Classes open to all. Cost: $3.00/ day, or buy a 2-week punch card for $24.00. Any questions, please contract Becky directly at haslerr@gmail.com.

ZUMBA When: Tuesdays Where: Saratoga Dance Studio This Zumba dance class is taught by Jana Moore who has been certified in Zumba since 2008. This class will combine different styles of music that will be fun and easy to move and burn calories while toning the body. See RecDesk to register!

OCTOBER 2024

LINE DANCING When: Tuesdays from 9:00 am - 11:00am Where: La Casita Recreation Center Are you interested in Line Dancing? It’s open to everyone, not just the ladies. We dance to various music. Email list: stoutgeo@gmail.com

TEXAS HOLD ‘EM TOURNAMENT STYLE POKER When: Fourth Friday of the month Where: La Casita Recreation Center Time: 6:30 pm (arrive by 6:15 pm) Cost: Free to residents. $5 non-residents.

To join the group, please email Frank Mizner at planner1948@gmail.com.

RETIREES’ GAME DAY When: 1st Thursday & 3rd Friday from 1pm - 3pm Where: La Casita Recreation Center Come and enjoy social time with Dobson Ranch retirees’.

BUNCO When: Every Third Friday Where: La Casita Recreation Center Time: 6:30 pm (arrive by 6:15 pm) Cost: Free. $5 non-residents. To join the group, please email Carolyn Sedlak at fpsedlak@yahoo.com

BRIDGE CLUB When: Every Monday - 12:00 pm to 4:00 pm Where: La Casita Recreation Center (Chica Rm) Open to all residents. The only requirement is to know how to play the game and sign up in advance. For more info contact Susan Toevs at suzila@aol.com (Bridge group is NOT a Retiree’s sponsored group)

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THE DOBSON ASSOCIATION

ACTIVITIES

OCTOBER 2024

FAIRYTALE DANCERS (AGES 3-5) When: Thursdays 4:30pm-5:30pm Where: Saratoga Rec Center Children will be introduced to dance through their favorite fairytales during this positive and encouraging class. Dance can build self-esteem and improve motor skills. Watch your prince and princesses shine in this fun and creative program. Children need soft soled shoes and comfortable clothes. Ballet shoes, leotard and tights recommended. There will be a performance last day of class. Children must be able to work in a group setting and follow directions. For more information, contact Jana Moore at 480-363-9997.

Contractor fee due to the instructor the first day of program: $35 check or cash only.Mizner at planner1948@gmail.com.

INTRO INTO BALLET & JAZZ (AGES 4-6)

When: Tuesdays 4:30pm-5:30pm Where: Saratoga Rec Center Time: In a fun, encouraging and high energy atmosphere, your child will be shown the fundamentals of ballet and jazz, which can help improve motor skills and creative expression.

Soft soled shoes are recommended or bare feet. Children must be able to work in a group setting. There will be a recital at the end of the session. For more information contact Jana Moore at 480-363-9997. Contractor fee due to the instructor the first day of program: $35 check or cash only.

DANCE SAMPLER (AGES 5-8) When: Tuesdays from 5:30 pm to 6:30 pm Where: Saratoga Recreation Center This upbeat and fun class is perfect to sample different dance styles including jazz, ballet, modern, hip hop, and other styles. Get moving with this upbeat and fun class and discover dance. For more information on this program, contact Jana Moore at 480-363-9997. Contractor fee due to the instructor the first day of program: $35 check or cash only.

BALLROOM DANCING When: Tuesdays from 6:30 pm to 7:30 pm Where: Saratoga Dance Studio Ballroom dance is a fun and social way to come together to learn and practice ballroom steps and techniques. Foxtrot, Waltz, Swing, Country, Cha Cha, Salsa and Tango. Partners and Singles welcome.

See RecDesk to register!

THE DOBSON ASSOCIATION

JUNIOR TENNIS LESSONS When: Tuesdays & Thursdays Time: Times vary upon level of lesson Cost: $25/hr (Pay instructor)

See Rec Desk on Dobson Ranch website to sign up.

TABLE TENNIS / PING PONG When: Every Friday Time: 4:00pm - 5:30pm Where: La Casita Grande Room

GENTLE YOGA When: Mondays 8:00am-9:00am Where: Saratoga Rec Center Improve strength, flexibility, balance, and the ability to relax in this gentle yoga practice. This practice focuses on posture, breath and attitude, and is appropriate for beginners as well as seasoned yogis looking for a gentler approach.

A yoga mat is required for the practice, as well as a yoga blanket or large towel. $7/class, $25 for a 4-class package

YOGA When: Fridays 6:30pm-7:30pm Where: Saratoga Rec Center Whether you’re experienced or new to yoga, you’ll find a friendly and supportive atmosphere. Enjoy a mix of strength, flexibility, and mindfulness as we practice poses and breathing exercises. Each class helps improve fitness, reduce stress, and promote inner peace. All you need is a yoga mat and an open heart. $7 per class

STOP FEARING THE FLOOR When: Starting Tuesday, October 15 Where: Saratoga Rec Center This class is intended to to focus on strengthening and improving balance to help attendants be able to safely get up from the floor and stop fearing falls by learning how to prevent them. It will include education on what are some risk factors that can cause falls and how to avoid them.

The strengthening provided will improve their balance and therefore help avoid falling. If you would like to register for the class, please go to the Rec Desk link on the Dobson Ranch website at www.Dobson RanchHOA.com.

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DOBSON RANCH

OCTOBER 2024

CITY OF MESA CLIMATE SUSTAINABILITY PLAN IN ACTION ALONG ALMA SCHOOL ROAD “I speak for the trees!” A well-remembered line from the popular movie, The Lorax, where everything is artificial, and the air is a commodity. The premise of this movie might be exaggerated when referencing some opinions regarding climate change and sustainability, or deforestation. Still, this topic of climate sustainability has caused the City of Mesa to take action on its Climate Action Plan released in June of 2022. Dobson Ranch has seen the results firsthand these past few months.

An example of the implementation of the City of Mesa Climate Action Plan is located on the west side of Alma School Road between Baseline and Guadalupe Roads. If you have been in this area recently, you may have noticed City of Mesa workers planting trees and desert-friendly ground cover in the landscaped area. City of Mesa Mayor John Giles stated in the plan’s introduction, “I’m excited that we are taking a critical next step to protect and preserve our environment for generations to come. It is time for us to be bold and determined and to set achievable goals that guide us in our work to reduce our greenhouse gas emissions” (2022).

We reached out to Vice Mayor Heredia regarding the revitalization of Alma School Road, and he stated on behalf of the City of Mesa that “the catalyst for this revitalization was a combined recognition from the feedback of residents and businesses who wanted to see improvements to the community” (2024).

for updated infrastructure, increased shade, and beautification of the area” (2024).

The infrastructure Vice Mayor Heredia speaks of is the required repairs of the aging irrigation lines along the west side of Alma School. The City of Mesa Climate Action Plan also states one of the goals as they look into the future is to invest in neighborhood parks and preserve natural open space” (mesaaz.gov, 2022). Some surveys revealed in the Action Plan list the initiatives that residents think would benefit most, and a resilient water supply and a tree and shade plan are the top two benefits.

It is well-known that in Arizona’s suburban neighborhoods, planting groundcover and trees is much more than a landscaping choice—it is a critical step toward enhancing the environment, boosting property values, increasing the community’s appearance, and improving the mental well-being of residents. By choosing the right plants and caring for them wisely, Dobson Ranch homeowners can create vibrant, sustainable, and resilient landscapes around their homes that thrive in harmony with their surroundings.

If you are passionate about water conservation within Dobson Ranch, the Water & Lake Management Committee is always looking for homeowners to participate and join in.

by Chad Turner Communications Administrator

Vice Mayor Heredia continued, “The Dobson Ranch area has always had a rich history and a unique character, and we saw this as an opportunity to enhance the cause while addressing the need 14

THE DOBSON ASSOCIATION

CITY OF MESA

OCTOBER 2024

Your Voice Matters: Help Shape Mesa’s Future Monthly Update from Vice Mayor Heredia As we develop our 2025-2029 HUD Consolidated Plan, we need your input to ensure that affordable housing, community development, and supportive services in Mesa meet the needs of our low- and moderate-income residents.

Your feedback will: • Identify unmet needs in the community.

• Guide the City in setting priorities and designing effective strategies.

• Help us allocate federal funding for activities, programs, and services that will make a difference.

What is the Consolidated Plan? The Consolidated Plan is a vital planning document required by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) for Mesa to receive federal funding for housing and community development. Every five years, we develop this plan through extensive research and community outreach to determine the top housing needs, community development priorities, and gaps in supportive services for our most vulnerable residents.

THE DOBSON ASSOCIATION

How Can You Get Involved? Over the next few months, we encourage all Mesa residents, non-profits, businesses, and community stakeholders to participate in virtual and in-person community forums or complete our community-wide survey. Please visit https:// www.mesalistens.com/HUD5yearplanning for more information.

Let your voice be heard. Take part in shaping the future of our community! ~Vice Mayor Heredia

As always, if you have any questions or comments, don’t hesitate to reach out to my office. We’re here to help!

You can contact us at 480-644-3003 or email District3@ MesaAZ.gov.

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CONSERVATION CORNER

OCTOBER 2024

IRRIGATION CONTROL, LEAKS AND WATER CONSERVATION!

by Kathrine Blomquist

Fall Checklist: • Get out sweaters from closet • Locate decorations in garage • Check for irrigation for leaks As I sit down to write this month’s article, it is the first day below triple digits! Yipee, we made it through another record-breaking summer! Hope you fared as well as could be and found relief from the heat in your favorite ways.

The mesquite tree in our front yard had a great summer! It flourished, thanks to a leak in the drip system. The leak lasted a few weeks and although our water usage normally increases a bit in the summer, the leak contributed to a 50% increase from one month to the next. In fact, our tree grew so much we received our first, and hopefully last, code compliance violation from the City of Mesa.

November’s pick-up. Please check your spam folder if you haven’t seen the email yet. Thank you for helping to beautify not only your yard, but our community, while supporting Mesa’s Climate Action Plan and other great environmental benefits! If you missed out the program this fall, there will be another one in the spring.

Happy Fall! I better double-check the mesquite tree before I start on the list.

So, this month’s top water-saving tip is to check for irrigation leaks - often. If a puddle is accumulating, that means there is a leak somewhere. If your yard walls are wet, that may indicate a leak as well. Due to the summer heat and travels we waited to repair the leak. Whoops - that delay wasted water (it is hard very to write that), cost money, and resulted in a citation from the city! Please learn from our mistake and fix any leaks as soon as you can, or be sure to have your landscape company check. Find one that advertises in the RoundUp or look for a Smartscape Professional (smartscape.org). Also, be sure to keep trees pruned 8’ above sidewalks and 14’ above the street to keep in code compliance with the city.

Also, now that the weather is changing, it is time to adjust your landscape irrigation system. This is easy enough to do by resetting the controllers on the irrigation timer (or, your smart irrigation controller), but how do you know if your plants, trees, shrubs, etc., are getting enough? What if you are watering too much now that the season has changed? Check out the Interactive Water Guides by Water - Use it Wisely.

These interactive guides help you determine the correct amount of water to use on your plants and functional turf (i.e. grass that pets/humans use and enjoy). If you prefer to flip through a book, there is a field on the website to have one sent right to your home.

Finally, if you participated in one of SRP’s Shade Tree webinars this summer, information has been emailed about 16

THE DOBSON ASSOCIATION

CALENDAR

OCTOBER 2024

October 1 - Master Planning Committee Meeting at 7:00 pm October 8 - Water & Lake Management Committee at 5:30 pm October 10 - Board of Directors Workshop at 5:30 pm (Open) October 10 - Small Business Club meets at 7:00 pm October 13 - Artisan Market at La Casita 9am-2pm (Every week) October 14 - Administration Office Closed for Columbus Day October 14 - Red Cross Blood Drive at La Casita at 10:00am-3pm October 19 - Spooktacular at La Casita - 5:30pm-7:00pm October 21 - Budget & Finance Committee Meeting at 6:30 pm October 22 - Recreation Committee Meeting at 5:30 pm October 24 - Board of Directors Meeting (Open) at 7:00 pm October 26 - Movie Night in the Park & Pumpkin Patch October 31 - Halloween (Be safe!)

To see more Events, Meetings, and Clubs, check out the calendar at www.DobsonRanchHOA.com

Your n tow Home eatment r T r Wate ecialist!

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AQUA TECH PLUMBING & DRAIN L.L.C. Over 20 Years Experience

SENIOR DISCOUNTS Ask for David!

Office: 480.507.3335

Mobile: 480.226.6795 www.aquatechplumbingAZ.com • DRAIN CLEANING • R/O SYSTEMS • FIXTURES • WATER HEATERS • TOILETS • WATER SOFTENERS • SEWER LINE LOCATING • LEAK REPAIRS • SLAB LEAKS • RE-PIPES • SEWER REPAIRS • AND MUCH MORE…

THE DOBSON ASSOCIATION

LICENSED BONDED INSURED ROC# 228747

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THE DOBSON ASSOCIATION

THE DOBSON ASSOCIATION

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THE DOBSON ASSOCIATION

THE DOBSON ASSOCIATION

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Your n Hometow Water nt Treatme t! s Speciali

AQUA TECH PLUMBING & DRAIN L.L.C. Over 20 Years Experience

SENIOR DISCOUNTS Ask for David!

Office: 480.507.3335

Mobile: 480.226.6795

www.aquatechplumbingAZ.com GOT CLOGGED DRAINS OR LEAKS? GIVE US A CALL, WE’RE HERE TO HELP • DRAIN CLEANING • R/O SYSTEMS • FIXTURES • WATER HEATERS • TOILETS • WATER SOFTENERS 22

• SEWER LINE LOCATING • LEAK REPAIRS • SLAB LEAKS • RE-PIPES • SEWER REPAIRS • AND MUCH MORE… THE DOBSON ASSOCIATION

CLASSIFIED ADS

OCTOBER 2024

B.C. HANDYMAN – Retired contractor - 30 SAENZ LANDSCAPING - Complete PROFESSIONAL TILE WORK- Repair years experience. Will do small maintenance landscaping service. Weed control, tree jobs/repairs and small remodel jobs in trimming/cut down, sprinkler installation/ the Mesa area. Not a licensed contractor. repairs, timers, vacuum breakers, pavers, Contact Bill Chase 320-808-5317. turf, concrete, stucco. Free estimates. Not a licensed contractor. Call or Text Jose (602) TIME TO PAINT YOUR HOUSE? - 330-6804.

Cardinal Painting Company. Interior/Exterior.

One room to complete house. Licensed. BLUE JAY POOL REMODELING LLC Bonded. Insured. ROC#257509. Fast, Free - Pool service, repairs tile, Pebble-tec, Estimates. 480-294-3744 Lights repair, pool decks. Travertine, Acid wash, pump installation, filter installation.

KILEY’S PAINTING – Interior/Exterior. Electrical system repair, and pool Small jobs or the whole house. Dobson Ranch remodeling. (480) 232-7692 resident. Reasonable prices, quality work.

Licensed, bonded, insured. ROC#337276 COMPLETE COVER PATIOS & DECKSFree Estimates. Call Aaron 602-716-1720. With many years of experience in general construction, I would like to offer my skills LUXURY VINYL PLANK – Owner/ to build or repair your cover patio or build Installer. Products Sales/Installation. New your room enclosure. I have experience Baseboards. Floor Prep. Call or Text 480- in all fields of construction. We provide 600-0374. Sullivan Hardwood Flooring, Inc. absolutly free quotes. (623) 792-3096 ROC# 151124. Since 1999. www.FloorAZ. com.

SPRINKLER REPAIR - Servicing the Dobson Ranch area only. Since 1981. All DOUG DO LIST HANDYMAN - Doug types of sprinkler repairs. Old drip systems Do List Handyman Service. 30 years of replaced. Call Frank 602-690-4767. experience in home maintenance and repairs.

Dobson Ranch resident for over 20 years. PALMS & TREES USA LANDSCAPING 480-276-1842 Not a licensed contractor SERVICES - 40 years of experience. Free estimates. Yard, tree services. Licensed, AQUA TECH PLUMBING & DRAIN - For bonded & Insured. Call or text (480) 897all your plumbing and drain cleaning needs, 3610 or (480) 577-1025 Licensed. Bonded. Insured. ROC#228747.

Reliability and experience you can afford. HELD POOL & SPA - Service & Repair.

480-507-3335. aquatechplumbingaz.com Have serviced the Dobson Ranch area for 20 years. Certified CPO & Insured.

DZO REMODELING LLC - We do Satisfaction Guaranteed. Specialty in Plumbing, Drywall, Painting, Bathroom/ Residential Pools. Call for a Free Estimate.

Kitchen/Flooring Remodels, Roofing and much 480-228-7154. Please leave message, I more! 12+ years experience! ROC 343814 will respond shortly.

Licensed, Bonded and Insured! Victor 480543-8879. Click Here for Facebook page. JUNIOR PAVERS LLC - We do Pavers, Travertine, Synthetic grass, Gravel, MARIA’S HOUSECLEANING - Houses, Irrigation, Plants, and Sprinklers. Call or apartments, townhomes. Weekly, bi-weekly, text (602) 503-0252. Free estimates. and monthly services. References available.

Free estimates. Maria Gomez (480) 620- PRO VALLEY 31 CLEANING 5536. Not a licensed contractor.

Residential,office, & post remodel cleaning. Organization & eco-friendly CARLSON HAULING - Removal and options available. Call 602-697-3200. dumping junk. Call or text us first at (480) Ask about new client special! Follow Us 695-6361 for a free estimate. Dobson Ranch Here! homeowner since 1976.

/ remodeling. Tub - Shower conversions, backsplashes, and fireplaces. Small/Large jobs welcome. Over 25 years experience.

Enrique (602) 549-9400 HOUSE AND PETTING SITTING - Security and property inspection background.

Pricing depends on duties. Let’s meet first.

Text Andrea (602) 702-1313 AZ HOME & LANDSCAPE SERVICES, LLC - Landscape design, installation, refresh, repairs, clean ups, junk hauling, sprinkler & irrigation, pavers, travertine, block, walls, turf, sod, lighting and much more. Licensed, bonded & insured.

ROC#337682. Free estimates, Valley wide. Dobson Ranch Resident. www. azhlpro.com. Call or text 480-200-9598

CLASSIFIED AD COSTS & INFO Classified Pricing: 6 Month Contract: 25 Words - $150 50 Words - $300 12 Month Contract: 25 Words - $300 50 Words - $600 www.dobsonranchhoa.com/advertising Call 480-831-8314 or email communications@dobsonranch.com

Dobson Ranch HOA does not endorse any of our advertisers.

YOUTH CLASSIFIEDS B&C POOP PATROL- Are your four legged family members filling up your yard with their waste but you do not have the time, desire or ability to clean-up after them regularly? B&C Poop Patrol is here to help! Currently scheduling one time clean-ups or recurring service. Text 480-809-7701 to coordinate a visit for a quote and schedule service.

FREE PUBLISHING FOR DOBSON RANCH YOUTH To start an ad, email: communications@dobsonranch.com

THE DOBSON ASSOCIATION

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THE DOBSON ASSOCIATION