RoundUp

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page 10
City Property Management - Steve Burns
It was a full day of activities, games and Egg Hunts. See this page for pictures.
Hello, Dobson Ranch!
Did you know... Dobson Ranch youths can place an ad for free?
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
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
IF YOU NEED ASSISTANCE PLEASE CONTACT THE ADMINISTRATION OFFICE DIRECTLY WITH CONCERNS, COMMENTS OR SUGGESTIONS.
ADMINISTRATION & MAINTENANCE
hoa.admin@dobsonranch.com communications@dobsonranch.com compliance@dobsonranch.com
Marc Diaz, Landscape & Maintenance Supervisor
Tonya Gallagher, Administrative Assistant
Cesar Martinez, Code Compliance Specialist
RECREATION & LIFESTYLE
Chad Turner, Lifestyle Department Manager
Jackie Hutton, Recreation Facilities Supervisor
Dion Jaramillo, Recreation Coordinator
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 of any advertiser or contributor.
For the most accurate and up to date info please subscribe to our weekly email updates. CLICK HERE TO SUBSCRIBE!
Brad Bettencourt Association President Katelyn Noble Treasurer
Alicia Saxby Secretary
Michael Snedeker Director
Holly Prasetio Vice President
Sandy Murray Director
Sam Javelosa Director
Open Seat Director Marc Lavender Director
Submit your application by scanning or clicking the QR code below.
Thank you, Board of Directors
FAMILY ENGAGEMENT CLUB & MOM’S CLUB
Christa Tropin at christa.tropin@gmail.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 jeansponderbrown1@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
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.
PRESCHOOL PARENTS CLUB
Krysta Rader, at raderkrysta@gmail.com
WOMEN’S CLUB
Patty Smith, President at smiths1975@cox.net.
CC&R COMMITTEE (AD-HOC)
Chairperson - OPEN
BUDGET & FINANCE COMMITTEE
Michelle Masters, Chairperson
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
Katelyn Noble, Chairperson at knoble@dobsonranch.com
PRESCHOOL COMMITTEE
Krysta Rader, Chairperson at raderkrysta@gmail.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
Councilmember 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
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
Brad Bettencourt was elected as BOARD PRESIDENT for The Dobson Association
Holly Prasetio was elected as BOARD VICE-PRESIDENT for The Dobson Association
Katelyn Noble was elected as BOARD TREASURER for The Dobson Association
Alicia Saxby was elected as BOARD SECRETARY for The Dobson Association BOARD
The following Board members were elected and appointed to their respective officer positions during the Board of Directors General Session Meeting held on April 23, 2025. This meeting can be viewed on the Dobson Ranch website under Livestream. Each year, Board officers and Committee liaisons are selected from among the sitting Board members to serve in these leadership roles.
It’s important to remember that each member of the Board of Directors is also a resident of Dobson Ranch—your neighbors and fellow homeowners—who have stepped forward as volunteers to help guide The Dobson Association forward. Their commitment plays a vital role in ensuring Dobson Ranch continues to be one of the most desirable and well-managed communities in Mesa.
We sincerely appreciate their time, dedication, and leadership.
If you—or someone you know— are interested in serving on the Board of Directors, there is currently one open seat. To apply, please complete a Board of Directors application, available under the MEMBERS tab at:
www.DobsonRanchHOA.com
Or scan the QR code on page 4 of this publication.
RECREATION COMMITTEE -
MASTER PLANNING COMMITTEE -
ARCHITECTURAL COMMITTEE -
BUDGET & FINANCE COMMITTEE -
PRESCHOOL COMMITTEEMARC LAVENDER
SAM JAVELOSA & MICHAEL SNEDEKER
SANDY MURRAY
KATELYN NOBLE & BRAD BETTENCOURT
ALICIA SAXBY
Understanding the Difference Between CC&R’s, Bylaws
why knowing the document hierarchy matters.
Dobson Ranch, as an HOA, is governed by a set of structured documents that lay the foundation for how the community operates. From what color you can paint your home to how the board of directors conducts elections, these rules help protect property values, ensure fairness, and support long-term community goals. However, not all documents carry the same legal weight. Understanding the hierarchy of these documents, and how each one functions, can help homeowners better navigate questions about governance, rights, and responsibilities.
Governing documents fall into a legal order of authority. When there is a conflict between documents, the higher-ranking document prevails. Here’s how that hierarchy breaks down, from most to least authoritative:
1. Federal and State Laws
These laws override all HOA documents. They govern matters such as fair housing, tax regulations, property rights, and non-discrimination. No HOA rule may conflict with these laws.
2. Plat Map
Recorded with the county, the plat map defines physical boundaries, easements, and setbacks. It’s especially important for establishing property lines and maintenance responsibilities.
3. Covenants, Conditions & Restrictions (CC&Rs)
CC&Rs are recorded with the county and form the core governing documents of the association. They define the rights and obligations of both the homeowners and the association, including:
• Use restrictions (e.g., no commercial activity)
• Assessment and insurance requirements
• Enforcement and dispute resolution procedures
• Maintenance obligations for both the association and its members
The Articles of Incorporation are filed with the state and define the legal name, address, and corporate status of the association. Think of the Articles as the birth certificate of the association. All too often we call the association by it’s nickname, “Dobson Ranch” but the community is legally named “The Dobson Association Inc” in the Articles.
The bylaws describe how the HOA operates, focusing on the internal governance of the association. Topics typically covered include:
• Board member roles and responsibilities
• Election procedures and voting rights
• Meeting frequency and quorum rules
These documents handle the community’s day-today living guidelines. They’re the most flexible and easiest to update, typically requiring only a board vote. Examples include:
• Rec center hours
• Common Area Guidelines
• Architectural Guidelines
Let’s take a closer look at the three main documents most homeowners encounter:
CC&Rs: The Backbone of the HOA
Think of the CC&Rs as the “contract” between you and your HOA. They are legally binding and recorded with the state. Because they set the foundation for property use and community standards, changing them is difficult and time-consuming—but they are essential to protecting the overall value and character of the community.
While the CC&Rs govern what can and can’t happen in the community, the bylaws explain how
the HOA functions. These documents outline the responsibilities of board members, election procedures, and rules for conducting meetings. This is where homeowners can learn how their board operates and how decisions are made.
The most flexible and changeable of the governing documents, Rules & Regulations handle routine operations and lifestyle rules. They may include seasonal changes (like pool hours), noise limitations, or architectural guidelines. While easier to update, they must always align with the higher-ranking documents. They also tend to be the biggest contributor to protecting property values, especially architectural guidelines.
While every rule and guideline can technically be changed, each type follows its own process:
• CC&Rs: Require homeowner voting—75% of the membership and legal filing.
• Bylaws and Rules & Regulations: Typically, only require a board vote, followed by homeowner notification and review. The architectural guidelines are an outlier and require committee voting. It’s good practice for HOA’s to review their governing documents, at a minimum, every 4–5 years to ensure they reflect the current needs of the community. This includes assessing compliance with new state laws, addressing outdated provisions, and adapting to the evolving lifestyle of homeowners. For quick reference, please see the table below.
Homeowner Portal Access: www.DobsonRanchHOA.com and click the City Property CITYCYNC button.
The better homeowners understand their community’s governing documents and how they relate to one another, the stronger and more harmonious the community becomes. Whether you’re looking to suggest a change or just want to know your rights, knowing the difference between CC&Rs, bylaws, and rules & regulations is key to informed HOA living. If you’re curious about any of the governing documents, you can find them all on your City Property Homeowner Portal.
When: 1st Thursday & 3rd Friday from 1pm - 3pm
Where: La Casita Recreation Center
Jean Brown, President. jeansponderbrown1@gmail.com
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
When: Every Monday - 12:00 pm to 4:00 pm
Where: La Casita Recreation Center (Chica Rm)
Open to all residents. Required: Know how to play and sign up in advance. Contact Susan Toevs: suzila@aol.com
(Bridge group is NOT a Retiree’s sponsored group)
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 Robin Wooten at rbwooten97@gmail.com.
For more information on this club, contact:
Wes Ver Woert, Chairperson. WesV56@gmail.com
For more information on this club, contact:
Christa Tropin, Chairperson. ctropin@dobsonranch.com
When: Third Friday of each month
Where: La Casita Playground (Bring your kids!)
Time: 12:00 p.m.
Krysta Rader at raderkrysta@gmail.com
When: Second Wednesday of the month
Where: La Casita Recreation Center (Grande Room)
Time: 6:30 pm - 7:30 pm
Kate O’Hara, Chairperson. azkateo@gmail.com
When: Tuesdays from 9:00 am - 11:00am & 4th Thursday from 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Where: La Casita Recreation Center
Join the Email list: stoutgeo@gmail.com
SMALL BUSINESS CLUB
When: Second Thursday of the month
Where: La Casita Recreation Center (Chica Room)
Time: 7:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Nikki Ausdemore, Chairperson. nikki@orangeblossombookkeepingaz.com
When: Third Tuesday of the month
Time: 6:30 pm - 8:00 pm
Where: La Casita Recreation Center (Chica Room)
James Leth, Chairperson. author@jamesleth.com
(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.
(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.
(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.
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!
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
All classes register on Rec Desk
REC DESK is an extension of the Dobson Ranch Website and allows residents to register for available classes. Once you are logged into REC DESK, you will see your account page. In the navigation you can browse PROGRAMS and the CALENDAR to check out which classes are when.
I hope your spring is off to a fresh and energizing start. As always, I want to keep you in the loop on what’s happening around our community. This month, I’ve got two important updates to share— let’s dive in!
Monthly Update from Councilmember Heredia budget.
Together, we can make sure Mesa grows in a way that’s smart, sustainable, and centered around community needs.
Your Voice Matters in Mesa’s Budget Process. It’s budget season here in Mesa, and that means it’s your chance to help shape the future of our city. Behind every street repair, park upgrade, and public safety investment is a thoughtful, transparent budget process. Our City staff and leadership work year-round to plan and prioritize how we use your tax dollars—ensuring we continue delivering high-quality services while staying fiscally responsible.
But we can’t do it without you.
Your ideas, questions, and feedback are an essential part of this process. Whether you’re passionate about improving roads, enhancing our parks, or investing in new programs, your voice matters.
• Have input or questions? Submit them through our Online Question or Comment Card.
• Want to learn more? Explore the full budget timeline and see how decisions are made at mesaaz.gov/
Kick off the summer with a splash! Join us for the Annual District 3 Spring Blast on Friday, May 23, from 5–7 p.m. at the Rhodes Aquatic Complex. Bring your family and friends for a FREE evening of fun in the sun—including:
• Open swim & FlowRider rides.
• Live music & entertainment.
• Good vibes all around!
This is one of my favorite events of the year—it’s the perfect way to celebrate our amazing community as the weather heats up. I hope to see you there!
As always, I’m here to assist with any questions or concerns. Please don’t hesitate to reach out to my office at 480-644-3003 or email us at District3@MesaAZ.gov.
~ Councilmember Heredia
MAY 3
Cinco De Mayo Fiesta 4:00pm - 6:00pm (BYOB: Bring Your Own Beer) Bring a mexican snack to share!
Margarita Mocktails & Chips provided (21+ Only)
MAY 4
Movie at the Cantina! Star Wars: Empire Strikes Back 2:00pm - 5:00pm in the Grande Room at La Casita
MAY 5
Star Wars Trivia: Are you smarter than a Padawan? 6:00pm - 8:00pm in the Grande Room at La Casita
MAY 6
Master Planning Committee Meeting at 7:00 pm (Available on Livestream)
MAY 8
Board of Directors Workshop
MAY 10
Coffee with Neighbors 8:30am - 10:00am
MAY 13
Water & Lake Mngmnt Committee Meeting at 5:30 pm (Available on Livestream)
MAY 13
DRAC Architectural Committee at 5:30pm
MAY 18
Artisan Market at La Casita 9:00am - 4:00pm
MAY 20
Preschool Committee Meeting 12:00pm at La Casita Playground
MAY 26
Memorial Day
MAY 26
Budget & Finance Committee Meeting - 6:00 pm (Available on Livestream)
MAY 27
Recreation Committee Meeting at 5:30pm (Available on Livestream)
MAY 27
DRAC Architectural Committee at 5:30pm
MAY 28
BOARD OF DIRECTORS MEETING at 7:00 pm (Open to Homeowners) (Available on Livestream)
The Dobson Ranch Retirees Club meets the first Monday morning of each month at La Casita with a coffee and tea social time at 9:30, and a meeting at 10, including lunch.
Many activities and social events happen throughout the month, including—
Biking
‘Free Wheelers’ on Tuesdays ‘Slow Spokes’ on Fridays Hiking
Wednesdays
‘Clippers’ on Fridays
Walking 2nd and 4th Mondays
Games at La Casita 1st and 3rd Thursdays
Social events throughout each month are a Men’s breakfast
Ladies lunch
Picnic
Dinner Out
Happy Hour
There is something for everyone. Please join us! Contact president Jean Brown at jeansponderbrown1@ gmail.com for information and a monthly calendar of these many varied events. We look forward to seeing you!
KILEY’S PAINTING – Interior/Exterior.
Small jobs or the whole house. Dobson Ranch resident. Reasonable prices, quality work. Licensed, bonded, insured. ROC#337276 Free Estimates. Call Aaron 602-716-1720.
B.C. HANDYMAN – Retired contractor- 30 years experience. Will do small maintenance jobs/repairs and small remodel jobs in the Mesa area. Not a licensed contractor. Contact Bill Chase 320-808-5317.
EAGLE EYE HANDYMAN SERVICES
20+ years experience, you break it, I fix it. 480-410-0250
SPRINKLER REPAIR - Scarecrow Sprinkler Repair. Servicing the Dobson Ranch area only. Since 1981. All types of sprinkler repairs. Old drip systems replaced. Call Frank 602-690-4767.
JUNIOR’S CLEANING SERVICEResidential and commercial cleaning service. We are a trusted family business, we guarantee 100% satisfaction service for all our new customers. Contact us at 480-7967901
CRISTINA HERNANDEZ HOUSE CLEANING SERVICES - HousesApartment Weekly-Bi-weekly-Monthly Mon. Tues. Wed. Thurs. Fri. Sat 480-217-7417
MASTER ELECTRICIAN - ROGER HEASTER 30 years in the Valley of the Sun. Not a licensed contractor. (602) 7328877
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.