New Ankle, Same Passions: How Liz Got a Second Chance
Marina, Docks, and Boating Rules
Board Actions Summary
2025 ACC Metting Schedule
2026 Fee Schedule
TKPOA December 2025 Calendar + Beyond
Assessment Collections Update
TKPOA Owner, Renter, and Hosted Rental Program Policy
President's Message
Indoor Pool Reopening
Tahoe Keys Amenity Access Cards Policy
2025-2026 BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Dave Peterson, PRESIDENT
PUBLISHING DISCLOSURE NOTICE
The Keys Breeze is the official monthly publication of the Tahoe Keys Property Owners Association (TKPOA), which is located at 356 Ala Wai Blvd., South Lake Tahoe, CA 96150. Each membership parcel receives one subscription to Keys Breeze mailed to a domestic address. Cost to produce and distribute this publication is offset by advertising revenues and budgeted funds. The inclusion of advertising in this publication does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation by the Tahoe Keys Property Owners Association or its Board of Directors of the projects, services or views contained therein.
FOR ADVERTISING OPPORTUNITIES please contact Kathy Hess-Slocum at Just Imagine Marketing and Design at (775) 846-5656, kathy@justimaginemktg.com.
DESIGNED BY J. Lewis Falconer Art & Design
ADMINISTRATIVE
Hallie Kirkingburg General Manager, ext. 224
Heather Blumenthal Operations Manager, Ext. 228 Linda Callahan Architectural Control Dept. Manager, Ext. 239
John Cefalu Facilities Director, Ext. 226
Code Enforcement (530) 545-0847
Water Company (530) 318-4268
Kristine Lebo
Water Quality Manager, Ext. 241
Front Desk Attendant Ext. 221
Water Quality Ext. 275
Peter Grant, VICE PRESIDENT
Bryan Welsh, TREASURER
Sabine Litten, SECRETARY
Jesse Schue, DIRECTOR
Bonnie Halleran, DIRECTOR
Mark Acri, DIRECTOR
TKPOA MEDIAN RESTORATION PROJECT COMPLETION
We are pleased to share that the Median Landscape Restoration Project has been completed.
The design was created in collaboration with a specialist from the Tahoe Regional Planning Agency (TRPA) and a local expert from Tahoe Outdoor Living, focusing on native, droughttolerant plant species that support proper drainage and long-term growth. While the new plantings will take some time to mature, the variety of colors and textures selected will provide an aesthetically pleasing and vibrant look throughout the year.
We appreciate the community’s patience throughout this restoration process and are excited to see the landscape mature into a sustainable and lasting enhancement to the Tahoe Keys environment.
How Liz Got a Second Chance
For Liz, the road to recovery began decades before her recent total ankle replacement with Barton Health’s orthopedic surgeon, Dr. Paul Ryan. In 1979, a motorcycle accident left her with a compound tibia fracture. Doctors weren’t optimistic, and she was told she might never walk again. But she walked. She hiked. She skied. She even works in the ski industry to this day, a career path she started in the early ‘90s.
Still, the injury left her bow-legged, and over44 years of active living, the misalignment took its toll. “It was osteoarthritis,” Liz says. “It crept up slowly but eventually stopped me from doing the things I loved—especially hiking.”
As an avid motorcyclist and recreational hiker and skier, Liz faced several orthopedic issues over the years, including ACL and MCL injuries, which she managed nonsurgically with the help of the team at Barton Health. But by 2021, her ankle pain had reached a point where her passions were no longer possible.
Liz received the recommendation to see Barton’s foot and ankle specialist, Dr. Paul Ryan.
“I pulled up my pant leg, and he took one look and said, ‘I know what to do,’” Liz recalls with a laugh. Dr. Ryan explained her options: an ankle fusion or a total ankle replacement. After consideration, Liz was ready to tackle the entire problem with
replacement.
Understanding Post-Traumatic Osteoarthritis
According to Dr. Ryan, Liz’s case is a classic example of post-traumatic osteoarthritis—the most common form of osteoarthritis. “When there’s a prior fracture that alters the alignment of a joint, it can significantly increase the chance of developing arthritis later on,” he explains.
Before moving to surgery, conservative options like braces, injections, and activity modifications are typically explored. But when those no longer provide relief, patients like Liz may be candidates for either a fusion or a joint replacement—depending on their alignment, health status, and activity goals.
“In Liz’s case, we were able to correct her alignment and replace her ankle in a single surgery,” Dr. Ryan says.
Before Surgery After Surgery
Prepared to Recover
Despite the long surgery, Liz was discharged the next day. She spent the next eight weeks partial weight-bearing in a boot and on crutches, giving her new ankle time to heal.
A naturally active person, Liz tackled her rehabilitation with determination. She trained beforehand on a stationary bike,
stayed physically fit, and brought that momentum into her postop care. She worked closely with the Barton Rehabilitation (physical therapy) team, and even added pool exercises thanks to a friend with a swimming pool.
“When I was told to do three sets of eight, I did four,” Liz said with a smile. “The Alter G treadmill, hydrotherapy, everything helped. Barton’s team was just incredible.”
Return to an Active Lifestyle
Two years out, Liz is back to hiking once a week and cycling regularly. She has returned to skiing, too. “You don’t have to live with osteoarthritis,” she says. “You just have to be ready. A lot of the recovery is mental—believing your body wants to be well, eating right, following instructions.”
Ankle replacements aren’t just for those looking for pain relief—they can also be a path back to an active lifestyle. While some patients may need a secondary procedure within the first decade to maintain joint motion, actual revisions of the implant are less common.
With strong confidence in her care team and a positive
mindset, Liz has resumed many of the activities she once feared she might lose forever. She says staying mentally strong, physically prepared, and committed to rehabilitation made all the difference.
“I was confident in Dr. Ryan and the Barton team,” she says. “And I’m so glad I did it. I’m doing what I love again."
Paul Ryan, MD, is a board-certified orthopedic physician with Tahoe Orthopedics & Sports Medicine, specializing in comprehensive foot and ankle surgical care. For more information, call 530.543.5612 or visit BartonHealth.org.
TEXT OF ADOPTED CHANGES
(Deletions are shown in strikethrough type and additions in boldface underlined type)
At the November 19th, 2025 Board meeting, the TKPOA Board of Directors adopted the following proposed changes to the Association Operating Rules. These proposed rules were noticed for potential changes on October 22nd, 2025.
PURPOSE OF CHANGE To allow fishing from specified common areas for the benefit of TKPOA members’ recreational use and enjoyment.
ARTICLE 3
MARINA, DO CKS, AND BOATING RULES
SECTION 200: TKPOA’S LAGOONS AND WATERWAYS
(Adopted August 18th, 2018)
The Tahoe Keys West Channel and Lagoon system is a privately owned system and is governed by the TKPOA Board of Directors. The responsibilities and authority of the Board are set forth in the California Corporations Code, the Articles of Incorporation, the By-Laws and the Declaration of Protective Restrictions of the Tahoe Keys Subdivisions.
It is the purpose of these rules to enact regulations to maintain and protect the Tahoe Keys Lagoon and Waterways; and to protect the quality of the waters to assure that no impairment of water quality will adversely affect Tahoe Keys or Lake Tahoe.
It is the intent that this article shall be uniformly interpreted with Chapter 14 of the City of South Lake Tahoe regulations concerning lakes and other public waters, and County, State or Federal regulations, and shall not contradict or supplant any existing laws, ordinances or regulations.
The provisions of these rules and regulations are to provide for the members of the TKPOA the means of effectively monitoring and controlling the operations of boats and of related structures and equipment on the waterways of the Tahoe Keys in order to maintain, improve and preserve the same.
BOATING OPERATIONS REGULATIONS
A. In order to protect and maintain the lagoon banks, bulkheads, docks, piers, and moored or berthed vessels from wave and wake action, vessel speeds shall be limited to five (5) miles per hour.
B. The towing of one or more persons on the surface of the water on tire tubes, floats, rafts, planks, surfboards or water skis constitutes a navigational hazard and is prohibited.
C. The operation of motorized equipment on the frozen surface of the waterways is prohibited.
D. The use of a vessel as a place of abode upon the Tahoe Keys waterways is prohibited.
E. The anchoring of a vessel in the navigable waterways in such a manner as to impede or obstruct the flow of boat traffic is dangerous and creates a hazard and a nuisance and is prohibited.
F. Stray Vessels, sunken or dilapidated vessels, drifting docks, floats, timbers and other floating materials and structures constitute a hazard and a nuisance. These vessels shall be removed from the waterways at the expense of the homeowner.
G. Aircraft landing or taking off from the waterway constitutes a hazard and is prohibited. Aircraft taxiing on the waterways is permitted; but extreme care shall be exercised by the operator of such aircraft.
H. The operation of commercial boating activities on the Tahoe Keys waterways is prohibited.
SECTION 7: REFUSE, DUMPING, POLLUTING
A. No person shall throw, deposit, or discharge refuse, sewage, garbage, or waste matter of any description into or upon the Tahoe Keys Waterways, sidewalks or beaches within the boundaries of Tahoe Keys.
B. No person shall discharge, dump, deposit or allow any oil, paint, varnish, gasoline, petroleum products or by-products, or non-biodegradable detergents or soaps into the Tahoe Keys waterways or on the streets or gutters within the boundaries of Tahoe Keys.
C. No dead fish, fish bait, animal or pet excrement, or other putrefying matter shall be deposited, or allowed to be deposited, into the waters of the Tahoe Keys or left on the banks, piers, floats, docks, gutters or walkways in the Keys.
SECTION 8: NAVIGATIONAL BUOYS AND SIGNS
A. No person shall move, interfere with or damage in any way the navigational floats, safety buoys or signs.
SECTION 9: BICYCLES, ROLLER SKATES AND SCOOTERS
A. Bicycle, Roller skate and Scooter riding on the pier extending into the lake is prohibited.
BEACH AND SWIMMING AREAS
A. The safe swimming area marked adjacent to the TKPOA Pavilion Office is a restricted area and the operation of boats in this area constitutes a hazard to swimmers and is prohibited.
B. Swimming in navigational waterways is prohibited.
BOATING OPERATIONS REGULATIONS
A. Members may fish from their private dock and/or slips.
B. Fishing from the shoreline is prohibited in marked areas including the Pavilion beach and pier. permitted along the Common Areas bordering Lake Tallac and Association parks fronting on lagoons and waterways.
C. Fishing from the Pavilion beach and pier is prohibited.
D. Fishing from Townhome Common Areas is permitted for the exclusive use of Townhome owners, their family members, and guests.
ENFORCEMENT
TKPOA is authorized to issue citations pursuant to any violation of these regulations. Such citations shall be presented to the Board of Directors for consideration of any damages that may be assessed to cover costs incurred by the TKPOA in repairing or replacing a damaged item or facility.
The Board of Directors may assess the owner/ member of the Association the amount of damages incurred and may use the authorized methods of collecting such assessments.
2025
BOARD ACTIONS SUMMARY
By Heather Blumenthal, Operations Manager
NOVEMBER 19TH – BOARD OF DIRECTORS EXECUTIVE SESSION
BOARD ACTIONS
• 7 Member Dispute and Disciplinary Matters
• 12 Legal Matters
• 0 Contracts
• 0 Personnel Matters
NOVEMBER 19TH – BOARD OF DIRECTORS OPEN SESSION
BOARD ACTIONS
• Approved the resolution to Record Lien for Account #059801, 0001-01, 0359-01, 0712-01, 1343-01, and 1426-01.
• Approved Bala Ventures for tree stump grinding for a cost of $5,700 to be funded by Common Reserves
• Approved G-Pro Construction for Siding Repairs in Cove 2A for a cost of $21,271 to be funded by Cove 2A Reserves.
• Approved Lumos & Associates to complete a topographic coverage map for Cove 3A for a cost of $21,240 to be funded by Cove 3A Reserves.
• Approved Haen Constructors to replace a Cove 3B dock hand railing for a cost of $2,355 to be funded by Cove 3B Reserves.
• Approved Lumos & Associates to complete a topographic coverage map for Cove 3C for a cost of $18,000 to be funded by Cove 3C Reserves.
• Approved Reno Tahoe Geo Associates to complete Bulkhead engineering work for the Cove 5 Bulkhead replacement project for a cost of $9,282 to be funded by Cove 5 Reserves.
• Approved Haen Constructors to complete landscape rehabilitation for Islanders 1 for a cost of $64,634 to be funded by Islanders 1 Reserves.
• Approved Alpine Metals and Signs of Tahoe to repair and replace Islanders 3 identification signage for a cost of $5,318 and $5,690 respectively to be funded by Islanders 3 Reserves.
• Approved Lumos & Associates to complete a topographic coverage map for Islanders 3 for a cost of $20,280 to be funded by Islanders 3 Reserves.
• Approved the Tahoe Marina Shores (TMS) Exterior Remodel Project: Cost Over Run invoices in the amount of $639,506.00 to be funded from TMS Reserves.
• Approved recoding P-Card charges to Tahoe Marina Shores (TMS) Reserves in the amount of $3,658.06.
• Approved a 28-day member review period for the additional proposed changes to the 2026 Fee Schedule.
• Approved proposed Operating Rules Article 2, Section 400 Pavilion Beach Rules for a 28-Day Member Review Period.
• Authorized Lumos & Associates to complete a full TRPA compliant topographic and boundary survey for Islanders-3 at a cost of $16,900.00, for Cove 3A at a cost of $17,700.00, and for Cove 3C at a cost of $15,000.00 to be funded from the respective Cove Reserve funds.
• Approved the Dr. Lars Anderson scope of work for 2026 waterways special projects in the amount of $49,311 to be funded from the Waterways Special Projects cost center (TA20C) GL:19928WQ – Long Term Planning.
• Approved the Sierra Ecosystem Associates scope of work for November 2025-Decemebr 2026 waterways special projects in the amount of $246,800 to be funded from the Waterways Special Projects cost center (TA20C) GL:19928WQ – Long Term Planning.
• Approved the EMKO scope of work for 2026 waterways special projects in the amount of $120,000 to be funded from the Waterways Special Projects cost center (TA20C) GL:19928WQ – Long Term Planning.
• Authorized an Emergency Special Assessment in the total amount of $400,000 for Tahoe Marina Shores, which is $10,256.41 upon each Townhouse in the subdivision to pay for the additional costs for replacing the balconies; and further, this Emergency Special Assessment is due and payable by the Townhouse Owners on January 1, 2026.
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2026 ARCHITECTURAL CONTROL COMMITTEE
Tahoe Keys Property Owners Association
2026 FEE SCHEDULE
Notice of Change in Association Rules TEXT OF PROPOSED CHANGES
(Deletions are shown in strikethrough type and additions in boldface underlined type)
At the November 19th, 2025 Board meeting, the TKPOA Board of Directors approved the following proposed changes to the Association Operating Rules to be posted for a 28 day membership review period. These changes will be considered for adoption at the December 17th, 2025 Board of Directors Meeting and would go into effect on January 1st, 2026. If you would like to provide any feedback to the Board prior to approval, please email your comments to Operations Manager Heather Blumenthal at heather.blumenthal@fsresidential.com, or submit them in person at the TKPOA Pavilion Office.
Purpose of Change: To add fees associated with a new TKPOA Vacation Home Rental (VHR) and Hosted Rental Permit Program for property owners who obtain a City of South Lake Tahoe VHR or Hosted Rental Permit; to increase event rental fees to cover facility costs; and to increase the trash pick up fee to cover staff costs.
TKPOA DECEMBER 2025 CALENDAR
ASSESSMENT COLLECTIONS UPDATE
Hello Tahoe Keys Residents!
This is a friendly reminder that the first quarter assessment will be charged on January 1st, 2026! Please be sure to check your account statement and disclosure documents for the 2026 Budget and Quarterly Assessment amount. The 2026 Annual Disclosure has been mailed to all members and is posted on the TKPOA website. The information needed to set up assessment payments can be found below and is listed on your quarterly statement.
PAYMENT OPTIONS ARE:
1. ClickPay – FirstService Residential’s online payment service provider. You can access ClickPay by visiting https://login.clickpay.com/firstservice.
Please note that ClickPay charges a service fee depending on form of payment.
2. Bill Pay – Your bank’s bill pay service. If using this service, please enter the following: name, address, and include your 8-digit Account Number on your bank’s website when using its bill pay service:
Tahoe Keys Property Owners Association c/o FirstService Residential PO Box 30354, Tampa, FL 33630
Please note that your account number with FirstService is different from your previous TKPOA account number. Your FirstService account number is the same as the Customer ID number listed on your quarterly statements.
3. Paper Check – Mail a Check to the address above. Include your FirstService remit slip from your monthly statement and your 8-digit FirstService/TKPOA account number.
The Association does not accept assessment payments at the on-site Pavilion office. Payments that are dropped off at the Pavilion office will be mailed to the lockbox address, PO Box 30354 for processing. Members are encouraged to mail their payments directly or utilize the online payment option to avoid late fees and interest charges.
E-STATEMENTS
By default, the assessment statements will be sent as a hard copy; if you would like to sign up to receive your future assessment statements electronically, please navigate to: https://estatements.welcomelink.com/ fscalifornia to sign up.
ASSESSMENT PAYMENT FAQS
Q: How are assessment charges applied to my account?
A: Regular quarterly assessments are due based on the following schedule each year:
• First Quarter due January 1st, considered delinquent if received after January 30th.
• Second Quarter due April 1st, considered delinquent if received after April 30th.
• Third Quarter due July 1st, considered delinquent if received after July 30th.
• Fourth Quarter due October 1st, considered delinquent if received after October 30th.
Assessment charges, for regular or special assessments, are not applied to owner accounts until the respective due dates. Using the regular quarterly assessment as an example, the first quarter assessment will not be charged to an owner’s account until the January 1st due date.
Q: When do late fees and interest charges apply?
A: Late fees and interest charges for delinquent payments are charged 30 days after the assessment due date. Reference the regular quarterly assessment schedule.
Q: What happens if I pay my assessments early?
A: Early payment of assessments is not required, however, for those owners who choose to pay their assessments prior to the due date, a credit will temporarily show on your account until the assessment due date.
Q: How should I make my check out for my assessment payments?
A: Checks and online bank bill pay payments should be made out to the: Tahoe Keys Property Owners Association or TKPOA.
Note: To ensure your payment is applied correctly to your account, include your Tahoe Keys account number in the check memo section for check and online bill-pay payments submitted. Please check that you are using your new FirstService account number.
Q: There are multiple charges on my account. What are they all for?
A: Reference the Statement Outline below:
• Townhome Assessment – for townhome owners only, this is the Operating and Reserve portion
of the quarterly assessment specific to the Townhome Cove Subdivision.
• Quarterly Assessment – this is the Common Operating and Reserve portion of the total Common quarterly assessment.
• Water Quality Assessment - this is the Water Quality Operating and Reserve portion of the total Common quarterly assessment.
• Water Company Assessment – this is the Water Company Operating and Reserve portion of the total Common quarterly assessment.
• Channels and Lagoons – this is the Reserve portion of the total Common assessment for the Channels and Lagoons account. These are funds that go towards dredging and bulkhead projects for the East and West Channels.
Q: Who do I contact for questions on my account?
A: For account questions, members should contact the 24/7 Customer Care Center at (800) 428-5588. On-site staff is also available at info@tahoekeyspoa.org or (530) 542-6444.
Q: I am having issues with my ClickPay account, who do I contact for assistance?
A: For assistance with ClickPay, members should contact ClickPay customer support directly at (888) 354-0135.
TEXT OF PROPOSED CHANGES
(Deletions are shown in strikethrough type and additions in boldface underlined type)
At the October 21st, 2025 Board meeting, the TKPOA Board of Directors approved the following proposed changes to the Association Operating Rules to be posted for a 28 day membership review period. These changes will be considered for adoption at the November 19th, 2025 Board of Directors Meeting. If you would like to provide any feedback to the Board prior to approval, please email your comments to Operations Manager Heather Blumenthal at heather.blumenthal@fsresidential.com, or submit them in person at the TKPOA Pavilion Office.
PURPOSE OF CHANGE To enact a new TKPOA Vacation Rental (VHR) and Hosted Rental Permit program for property owners who obtain a City of South Lake Tahoe VHR or Hosted Rental Permit; to clarify rules for rental properties to prevent nuisances and to protect the quiet enjoyment of the Tahoe Keys for all members, their family members, guests, and renters.
3RD REVISION FOR MEMBER REVIEW PERIOD
Changes made based on member comments and review by Rules and Enforcement Committee, highlighted in yellow
TKPOA OWNER, RENTER, AND HOSTED RENTAL PROGRAM POLICY
PREVI OUSLY THE OWNER, RENTER, AND SHARED HOME RENTAL POLICY
Whereas, the Tahoe Keys is a private family-oriented, residential community that is located in a scenic and quiet environment. The close proximity of the residences in the Tahoe Keys increases the likelihood that disruptive behavior will impact other residents; and a number of properties within the Tahoe Keys are offered as short term vacation rentals through Vacation Rental Agencies, Vacation Rentals by Owner, and/or by other methods; and in compliance with the City of South Lake Tahoe’s ordinance regulating Vacation Home Rentals (VHRs), the TKPOA has adopted the following Owner and Renter Program Policy:
1. All owners with a Vacation Rental (VHR) or Hosted Rental permit from the City of South Lake Tahoe (CSLT) must register with the TKPOA administrative office and secure an annual “TKPOA Rental Permit” for their property to operate a shortterm vacation or hosted rental within the Tahoe Keys.
a. Properties operating as a short-term vacation or hosted rental without the proper permits are subject to potential member discipline, fines, legal action, and referral to City
law enforcement. Permits are not transferable.
b. Properties operating as a long-term rental with lease terms 30+ days, are not required to obtain a TKPOA Rental Permit.
c. Loss or expiration of CSLT rental permit will result in loss of TKPOA Rental Permit and amenity access for short-term or hosted rental guests.
d. Short-term and hosted rental guests may obtain amenity access passes per the TKPOA Amenity Access Pass Policy.
e. All single-family properties operating as a short-term or hosted rental must install a bear box for trash pickup. Exceptions may be provided on a case-by-case basis for properties that do not have space to install a bear box.
2. Association owners and renters in Tahoe Keys must comply with all CSLT ordinances, including its Vacation Rental and Hosted Rental ordinances.
3. All owners, renters, and vacation renters must comply with the TKPOA governing documents including provisions which prohibit "nuisance" behavior and set forth rules concerning vehicles, boats, trailers, parking and use of docks and lagoons.
4. Each vacation and hosted rental shall have and display its CSLT and TKPOA rental permits in a front window of their property that is easily viewed from the street or Townhome parking lot.
5. Rental Permit Applications and Renewal Application Forms will include, but are not limited to the following information:
a. Owner names and mailing addresses
b. Property manager 24/7 contact information for reporting violations. Any change to property manager and/or contact number will be submitted to TKPOA Enforcement within 48 hours.
c. CSLT permit number and expiration date.
d. If application or rental application is being filed by the property owner’s agent or authorized representative, it shall include a declaration that the application is being submitted with the consent of the property owner.
e. Applications and rental applications will be accompanied by an annual, non-refundable, permit fee. TKPOA’s Annual Rental Permit Fee is determined as part of the Annual Budget Process and approved by the Board of Directors on the Association’s Annual Fee and Fine Schedule.
f. TKPOA Rental Permits must be renewed on an annual basis.
6. Trash Disposal:
a. Townhouse dumpsters are for the exclusive use of the townhouse owners and their authorized renters. Only household trash can be placed in the Townhouse dumpsters; no large items or construction debris may be disposed of in these dumpsters.
b. Owners of single-family homes are reminded that curbside trash is on Fridays. Trash containers may not be placed at the curb until 6:00am Friday morning. Owners will be financially responsible for any trash left out early that has to be cleaned up by Association Staff at the current rate of $100.00. Owners may also be subject to additional fines for violation of trash pick-up rules.
c. Rental and cleaning agencies hired by homeowners of a single-family home may not utilize the townhouse dumpsters. Owners may be subject to member discipline and fines for improper or prohibited use of Townhome dumpsters.
7. Townhome Parking
a. To minimize the impact of short-term rentals on Townhome parking lots, Townhomes operating as a vacation rental are limited to one (1) parking spot per rental unit. Townhome parking lots with two (2) numbered, assigned spots may utilize both of their numbered spots.
B. Prohibited conduct includes, but is not limited to:
a. Excessive, disruptive or objectionable noise, at any time of day.
b. Use of pools, spas, and hot tubs with the use of jets, blowers, and other mechanical elements that produce noise are prohibited between the quiet hours of 10:00pm and 8:00am.
c. Speeding in excess of 5 miles per hour (mph) or causing a wake which could cause damage to adjacent properties while in a TKPOA lagoon or waterway.
d. Loud music from a watercraft while in the TKPOA lagoon or waterway.
e. Indecent exposure.
f. Trespassing
g. Drunk or disorderly conduct.
h. Destruction of private property.
i. Harassment of residents or TKPOA staff or other conduct that is an unreasonable annoyance to the neighborhood.
j. Allowing dogs to be "off leash" and failure to pick up and properly dispose of pet waste.
By Dave Peterson
Here is a synopsis of current happenings.
Drinking Water. Monitoring wells for design of well 4 were completed in October, which revealed that in the deeper zones (below about 200’), arsenic occurs at levels slightly higher than the maximum contaminant level. The new well is being designed to pull water from shallower zones to avoid the need for treatment, but provisions are being made to facilitate addition of treatment in the future, if needed. Uranium and PCE were not a problem in the water sampling. Construction on well 4 will likely start in late June or early July 2026. The late start is due to permitting conditions.
The other major component of drinking water work funded by the loan you recently approved is pipelines. Larger pipelines (12” dia) will be constructed under Ala Wai/Keys Blvd between well 4 and Venice Dr., and under Venice Dr. between Keys Blvd. and Christie Dr. Construction should start about May 2026 and run through November. We are told that 2-way traffic will be maintained, and access to driveways will be maintained, but on-street parking in the moving construction zone will be impacted. Pipeline work in streets is always disruptive, so we ask for your patience during this
important project. We will have more information, townhalls, and “street meetings” as time gets closer and we learn more details.
The larger pipelines are needed to push water between sources (wells and a future tank) and fire hydrants all over the community. Many of the pipes originally constructed beneath our streets are too small to meet today’s fire flow standards, unfortunately, and the Ala Wai/Keys Blvd and Venice Dr. pipes are our highest priority backbone segments.
Drinking Water, Coming Soon. Our plan to restore full capacity in the water system requires one more major component. The well and pipelines funded by the loan get us most of the way there, but we won’t have full fire flow capacity until we build a water tank with a booster pump station. Tanks in our part of the world are built on the ground because we live in a seismic zone, and an elevated tank is very expensive to stabilize against earthquakes. Because they are built on the ground, they require a booster pump station to pump high volumes of water against our 55 psi operating pressure. Since I am getting into details here, it is worth saying that the water in the tank needs to “turn over” frequently to keep the water fresh, so operations are complex. Tanks seem so simple…
Anyway, we are pursuing 2 sites for the tank; one near the marina, and one on our Texas Ave lot. We are very close to deciding on a site, and then we will proceed toward implementation. Our cost share of the facility will require a loan or special assessment, either of which will require your vote. While it is too early to share meaningful cost estimates, the cost of this tank project will be significantly lower than the recently approved well and pipelines project. I know that you are getting tired of these extra costs, but re-establishing fire protection is important. We are doing all we can as an organization to keep the Keys insurable. We have met “Fire Wise Community” requirements, and we need to bring our water system up to full capacity. I hope you will agree that this is important when we ask you for your vote.
Beyond that, we will need to install residential water meters and implement a metered rate to comply with State law by 2032. We plan to do a rate study sometime in 2026 to better establish our commercial rate structure and plan for a fully metered system. Incidentally, you may or may not know that we serve commercial customers at the marina and in Tahoe Keys Village (Keys Blvd and Venice), and we also serve water to the
restrooms on Pope Beach, and we charge them all a metered rate.
STPUD Water Intertie Right of Way
Resolution. When we had the uranium crisis in 2021, one of the emergency actions we undertook was to construct interties with both STPUD on Keys Blvd. and Lukins Brothers Water Company (LBWC) on 15th street. The LBWC intertie was constructed in short order and provided needed supplemental supply during low pressure events caused by high water use on popular summer days. The STPUD intertie became a debacle. Our pipelines were connected years ago by a closed valve, but STPUD would not permit opening of the valve until we installed a backflow preventor, which would allow water to flow from STPUD to the Keys, but not vice versa. We were part way through construction when we changed Water Company Managers. Jennifer Lukins came on board and immediately noticed that we were installing the wrong type of backflow protector, so we issued a change order and put the right one in. But by the time it was installed, the summer had passed, and we didn’t need to operate the intertie. The good news is that we will have it for future emergencies.
PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE
The story does not end there. Shortly after construction, the adjacent homeowner contacted us and told us that we had installed the backflow device on his property. Our team (none of whom work for us anymore) had mistakenly thought it was in a public street easement. We have been trying to work something out since 2023, and I’m happy to say that at the November board meeting the board approved tradeoff easements to resolve the land dispute; we get an easement for the backflow protector, and the landowner gets an easement on the shore of Lake Tallac. It was a straight trade.
I, for one, am very happy that this 4-year mess is finally cleaned up!
I am telling you this story after the fact because it was a legal issue, and we must maintain confidentiality in legal disputes. This one was resolved amicably, so I can reveal it. But I am also telling you this because it is a human story. Your staff and board are ordinary humans and humans make mistakes sometimes. The main thing is that we fix them, like we did here. It took several years, but we found an inexpensive solution and got it done!
PCE Contamination Litigation. No update.
Indoor Pool. The pool is full of water, the water quality tests pass, and the new plaster is holding nicely. But the final inspection is awaiting installation of steps at the shallow end, which are still in fabrication as of this writing. Hallie is estimating an opening in mid-December.
Cove 3A Bulkhead. Work will begin as soon as the contractor finishes a job on the north shore.
Islanders I Bulkhead. This was more of an abovewaterline retaining wall rather than a bulkhead, but whatever you call it, it is nearly completed. Landscape restoration will happen next spring.
TMS Exterior Remodel. The project is nearly complete and looks great! Some unforeseen work on decks had to be added, which necessitated the board approving an emergency special assessment of about $10k/unit at the November meeting to cover the extra cost.
Rules. We received additional member comments on 2 rule changes: Vacation Rental Policy and permit fee schedule, and Amenity Access Policy Amendment (to accommodate VHRs). Staff has edited the rules for those comments and the board authorized an additional 28 day review period at the November meeting. The board
approved relaxing fishing restrictions in our operating rules. I’m not sure why they were so strict before, but the board and commenting members clearly wanted to let the kids fish!
I’ll Sue! I will close with this unpleasant topic.
A few of you (thankfully, only a few) have brought a legal grievance with TKPOA over one thing or another at some point in time. When a complaint is received, it becomes a legal matter. All costs borne by the TKPOA in addressing the matter (legal, administration, staff, physical work) are tracked. If it is a townhome subdivision (“cove”) matter, ALL TKPOA costs are assigned to that cove alone. If it is a common area or other general matter, TKPOA costs are borne by the entire membership. If we can get insurance or another 3rd party (such as a contractor) to cover all or part of the claim, that reduces the dollar amount we assign to the TKPOA cost center.
Perhaps you think the blame lies with an individual employee, or board member, or other volunteer, and that your claim can be assigned to that person. In nearly all cases, TKPOA indemnifies our employees and volunteers. That veil is not pierced, except in proven cases of gross negligence or criminal acts. If the indemnification veil was not strong, we would not get anyone to work here or volunteer!
It is important for you to know that “I’ll sue!” means you will be suing your neighbors, and yourself, because you will pay a part of TKPOA’s cost too. And if your issue is a cove issue, the number of people you will be suing is small; and you are one of them. Your neighbors will not be happy with you!
I urge all of you to work with us to resolve issues amicably, and at the lowest administrative level where the issue can be addressed. There may still be costs involved in resolving the issue, which will be borne by the members participating in that cost center, but the costs will be focused on getting the physical problem fixed and not wasting time and money on legal proceedings.
Heavenly opened today, so that means that winter is here. We are looking forward to our annual family gathering at our house for Thanksgiving in a few days. By the time you read this, we will be nearing Christmas. What a wonderful time of year! I hope you all are all able to enjoy the Keys over the holidays. Regardless of the depth of snow, Tahoe is a winter wonderland!
INDOOR POOL REOPENING
After an extensive and thorough restoration project, we are pleased to share that the Indoor Pool is entering its final stages of completion and is scheduled to reopen on December 15th.
Final stages of work include:
• Installation of shallow-end entry stairs
• Balancing and testing of pool water
• Bathroom tile installation and fixture reinstallation
• Completion of electrical work and final paint touch-ups
Project overview:
• Enhanced and replaced the pool deck drainage system
• Fully replaced the pool deck surface
• Repaired and upgraded bathroom plumbing
• Replaced the interior pool plaster, lights, and pool tiles
• Replaced built-in steps and grab bars
• Replaced all pool skimmers
• Installation of pool automatic water leveler
There is a new entry system in place at the pool. Members must use the keypad located to the right of the front doors to scan their valid access card in order to enter. If the access card is not valid, the doors will not open, and members/guests will need to visit the Pavilion Office at 356 Ala Wai Blvd to resolve any issues with their card.
We have attached some pictures of the before, in process, and current of the project and are thrilled with the outcome.
We appreciate the community’s patience and support throughout this process and are excited to welcome residents back to enjoy the renewed facility soon.
AFTER BEFORE DURING
TEXT OF PROPOSED CHANGES
(Deletions are shown in strikethrough type and additions in boldface underlined type)
At the November 19th, 2025 Board meeting, the TKPOA Board of Directors approved the following proposed changes to the Association Operating Rules to be posted for a 28 day membership review period. These changes will be considered for adoption at the December 17th, 2025 Board of Directors Meeting. If you would like to provide any feedback to the Board prior to approval, please email your comments to Operations Manager Heather Blumenthal at heather.blumenthal@fsresidential.com, or submit them in person at the TKPOA Pavilion Office.
PURPOSE OF CHANGE To add an amenity access pass option for short term renters for those property owners who obtain a City of South Lake Tahoe and TKPOA Vacation Rental Permit.
3RD REVISION FOR MEMBER REVIEW PERIOD
• Clarify weekly term for short term/ vacation renter passes
TAHOE KEYS AMENITY ACCESS CARDS POLICY
1. Proof of Member Status – Members are defined as either 1. those individuals listed on the recorded deed, 2. as the trustee/cotrustee for a Trust listed on the recorded grant deed, or 3. as the corporation listed on the recorded grant deed, of a property located within the Tahoe Keys Property Owners Association. Those individuals who have assigned power of attorney to act on behalf of a deeded homeowner will also be considered members.
2. Corporate, Partnership Ownerships –Member ID cards will only be issued to up to four (4) of the officers of the corporation (President/CEO, Vice President, Treasurer/ CFO, or Secretary). Officers of a corporation must be filed with the Secretary of State corporation filing each year and a copy provided to the Pavilion Office Front Desk in order to obtain amenity access cards.
3. Types of Amenity Access Cards – please scroll down for exact definition and requirements:
a. Member Tahoe Keys Amenity Access Card – with photograph – valid for term of property ownership.
b. Family Member Tahoe Keys Amenity Access Card – for property owner family members –with photograph – valid one year; automatically renewed if card assignment is not updated.
c. Long term Renter Tahoe Keys Amenity Access Card – for rental tenants leasing a property for 30+ days - purchase and photograph required – valid for the term of rental agreement up to one year.
d. Short-term Renter Tahoe Keys Amenity Access Card – for rental tenants leasing a property for less than 30 days – purchase and photograph required – valid for up to 1 week.
e. Employee Tahoe Keys Amenity Access Card –photograph required – valid for term of on-site employment at the Tahoe Keys.
f. Guest Card: Tahoe Keys Amenity Access Card –purchase and photograph required – valid for a length of stay, up to 7 days.
4. Amenity Access Cards Definitions and Requirements
a. Member ID Cards – Only Members as defined under item 1 and their spouses/domestic partners (subject to card limits under item 5), may obtain a Tahoe Keys amenity access card for access to all Tahoe Keys amenities, lighthouse shores, and free boat launch access at the Tahoe Keys Marina. Members must have a current valid Tahoe Keys amenity access card with a photograph in their possession when using any of the Association’s facilities. This includes swimming pools, spas, tennis courts, pickleball courts, parks, playground, beaches, volleyball court, pope marsh gate, and lighthouse shores pedestrian gate. Card carries guest privileges as defined under item 6.
b. Family Member Cards – Family members sixteen (16) years and older may be assigned amenity access cards on the members’ account (subject to card limits under item 5). Family members are defined as parents, siblings, spouses, children, grandchildren, nieces, and nephews. Family member amenity access cards are for entry into Tahoe Keys amenities only and do not allow for boat launch access at the Tahoe Keys Marina or access into lighthouse shores. Family members must have a current, valid Tahoe Keys amenity access card with a photograph in their possession
when using any of the Association’s facilities. This includes swimming pools, spas, tennis courts, pickleball courts, parks, playground, beaches, volleyball court, and pope marsh gate. Family cards may be assigned and renewed annually. Card carries guest privileges as defined under item 6.
c. Long-term Renter Cards – Long-term Renters are defined as individuals who rent a property within the Tahoe Keys for a period of 30 or more days and are listed as the responsible parties on the rental lease/reservation. The property owner, or property manager on behalf of the property owner, must register their rental tenants and complete the rental registration form and rental guest checklist. Renter amenity access cards may be picked up from the Pavilion Office during normal business hours. Must present a valid state issued Driver’s License or Identification Card. Amenity access cards require a photograph and cost $50.00 for term of rental up to one year. Card carries guest privileges as defined in item 6. Renters must have a current, valid Tahoe Keys amenity access card with a photograph in their possession when using any of the Association facilities. This includes swimming pools, spas, tennis courts, pickleball courts, parks, playgrounds, beaches, and volleyball court. Renters do not have boat launching or lighthouse shores access. i. Renter cards apply towards the 5-amenity card limit per property as defined in item 5. Owners and/or property managers should assign 1 or more of the property cards to their tenants using the rental registration form, prior to the renter’s stay.
d. Vacation Renter Cards – Short-term or Vacation Home Renters (VHR) are defined as individuals who rent a property within the Tahoe Keys for a period less than 30 days and are listed as the responsible parties on the rental lease/ reservation. VHR guests must visit the Pavilion Office during normal business hours to obtain their amenity access passes. Must present a copy of their lease agreement/reservation and a valid state issued Driver’s License or Identification Card. Children 5 (five) and under do not require an amenity access pass. Vacation Renters must have a current, valid Tahoe Keys amenity access card with a photograph in their possession when using any of the Association facilities. This includes swimming pools, spas, tennis courts, pickleball courts, parks, playgrounds, beaches, and volleyball court.
Vacation Renters do not have boat launching or lighthouse shores access. Card carries guest privileges as defined under item 6.
e. Employee Access Cards – Employees working on-site for the Tahoe Keys Property Owner Association’s management company may obtain a Tahoe Keys amenity access pass to all Tahoe Keys amenities. Employees must have a current valid Tahoe Keys amenity access card with a photograph in their possession when using any of the Association’s facilities. This includes swimming pools, spas, tennis courts, pickleball courts, parks, playground, beaches, volleyball court, pope marsh gate. Card carries guest privileges as defined under item 6 and is valid for term of employment.
f. Guest Card – If members wish to have people friends or family visiting staying at their property enjoy the amenities without a card carrier present, an application may be filled out to request a temporary guest card. Guest cards are valid during the time of visit only and expire thereafter. Photograph is required and the card will show the guest’s name and TKPOA Property address. Card carries guest privileges as defined under item 6.
The first 10 guest cards are free and are $20 per card thereafter. Up to 20 guest cards may be issued per property each calendar year and are valid for a length of stay up to 7 days. Guest passes may be picked up from the Pavilion Office during normal business hours. For the purposes of this policy, renters are not considered guests and must obtain the renter amenity access card.
Guests must have a current valid Tahoe Keys amenity access card with their photograph and name in their possession when using any of the Association’s facilities. This includes swimming pools, spas, tennis courts, pickleball courts, parks, playground, beaches, volleyball court, pope marsh gate.
5. Amenity Access Card Limit Per Property – A maximum of four (4) five (5) Amenity Access Cards per property can be printed and issued on a member’s account at one time notwithstanding those properties with more than 4 individuals listed on the grant deed.
a. Properties with more than 4 individuals as the owner of record (members as defined under item 1) may obtain member access cards for all listed owners of record; no additional cards may be allocated (for example, 6 owners listed on the grant deed will receive 6-member access cards, but
no additional cards may be assigned).
6. Guest Privileges – Up to three (3) guests per Member, Family Member, Long-term Renter, Vacation Renter, Employee, or Guest Amenity Access Card can access the association facilities when accompanied by the ID cardholder. The cardholder must remain with their guests while utilizing Association amenities. Children five (5) and younger do not require guest passes and do not count towards the three (3) guest per card maximum.
7. Marina Boat Launch Access – Free boat launching privileges at the Tahoe Keys Marina (TKM) are provided to TKPOA Members only, per the 1991 Stipulated Judgement between the TKPOA, TKM, and Tahoe Keys Beach and Harbor Association (TKB&HA).
8. Lighthouse Shores Pedestrian Access Gate – Access to Association properties known as “Lot C” and “Lot A” is provided via the Pedestrian Access gate located to the left of the Lighthouse Shores vehicle access gate. Access is restricted to Members only. Guests in the immediate presence of their sponsoring member will be permitted access. Other access stipulations per Superior Court Case SV-92-0066 include no bicycles or dogs and restricts access to the hours of 7:00AM9:00PM, except during the summer when the hours are extended to 10:00PM.
9. Delinquent Accounts – Cards will not be issued to any members, residents, or tenants for properties that are delinquent in their assessments and have had their member access rights suspended by the Board of Directors. Any issued Cards of delinquent accounts will be immediately de-activated until their respective account is returned to current status.
10. Card Replacement – The fee for replacing lost, stolen, or damaged Cards will be twenty dollars ($20.00). TKPOA will take current digital photographs with the issuance of ID Cards.
11. Property of TKPOA – Amenity Access cards remain the property of the TKPOA and may be confiscated for violation of the Association Rules.
12. All previously issued Tahoe Keys Property Owners Association Amenity Access Passes, including but not limited to Member ID Cards, Long Term Rental Cards, and Short-Term Access Passes, will be permanently deleted periodically as deemed necessary. Members listed as the deeded property owner in the Association’s management Connect portal will automatically receive new Member Amenity Access Cards.
STAFF APPRECIATION
Dear Tahoe Keys HOA Management and Board of Directors,
I am writing to express my deepest gratitude and formally commend the outstanding professionalism, responsiveness, and care demonstrated by your front-desk staff and security team—particularly Brandon, Head of Security—following a serious incident at my townhouse unit.
On the night of November 4, 2025, at approximately 10:15 p.m., a bear forcibly entered my unit while I was out of the area. I only became aware of the breakin the following morning (November 5) when I reviewed my security camera footage. Understandably alarmed, I immediately contacted the front desk. Without hesitation, the staff member promptly transferred me to Brandon.
Brandon responded with remarkable speed and composure. He personally inspected my unit, provided a thorough assessment of the damage, and kept me fully informed throughout the process despite my being several hours away. He then expertly coordinated with both the Bear League and the maintenance team to ensure the bear was safely managed and my property was promptly secured and protected from further damage. His clear communication, decisive action, and calm reassurance during a stressful situation were nothing short of exceptional.
The swift and coordinated response from your entire team turned what could have been a disastrous and dangerous situation into one that was handled safely, professionally, and with genuine care for both resident and wildlife. This level of service reflects the highest standards of professionalism and community responsibility.
Please extend my sincere thanks to Brandon and the entire front-desk, security, and maintenance staff involved. They are a credit to Tahoe Keys HOA, and I feel fortunate to be part of a community supported by such dedicated individuals.
Thank you once again for employing and fostering such an outstanding team.
Warm regards,
John Hollis, Elysse Hollis
Cove 1
TOWNHOME CORNER
THE "KEYS" TO FINDING WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW ON THE WEBSITE
Need to find your cove’s specific information?
A lot of information concerning townhome cove owners has been posted on the website. Here are the steps to access this information:
• Go to www.tkpoa.com
• Sign in (on the right side)
• Click on the tab “Docs”
• Select “Documents”
• Select “Townhome Oversight Committee” from the menu
• In this folder are the following (select and then look for your Cove’s folder):
» Cove Financial Reports
» Cove Newsletters
» Cove Town Hall Presentations
» Meeting Agendas
» Property Insurance
» Townhall Surveys
» Prior Cove Advisor Meeting Documents
Need to submit a Workorder or TOC Agenda Request?
Click on header "Townhomes”.
• Select “Work Order” to submit a work order, snow removal or call request.
• Select “Agenda request” to submit an item for the next TOC meeting.
Need the zoom link for an upcoming meeting?
Click on the header "News"
Select "Events.”
Scroll down to see the calendar, search for the date, and click on the event to find the zoom link.
Looking for a proposed rule or policy change?
Click on the header “Docs”
Select “Documents”
Select “Rules & Procedures”
Select “Rule Change Notifications”
WANT TO PAY DUES ONLINE?
Click on header “Pay Dues”.
A new window will open on the FSR Click Pay website. You will need to sign in with your Click Pay user ID and password to proceed.
