PagosaLakes
PAGOSA LAKES NEWS
Welcome to our new Digital Weekly News Magazine!
Here at Pagosa Lakes, we share a lot of information throughout the month updates, progress, planning, and day-to-day operations that often don’t make it into a formal announcement. Somewhere along the way, we got really good at getting things done and not always great at sharing them with you
This new digital weekly magazine is our way of changing that.
While some operational tasks will still happen quietly behind the scenes, this space is designed to be an easy, centralized access point for information you may want or need at any given time. By going digital, we’re able to embed links directly to helpful resources like website content, registrations, calendars, and eventually even videos.
Each departments monthly board report that is part of the board packet will be included here as well, this will remain published throughout the month, while planned or timely announcements will be added to the weekly updated version as they come up. No matter what, you’ll receive a link to the magazine every week. Missed the email? No worries it will also live on our website under Weekly News.
And this isn’t just about what we are doing—we want to know what you are up to, too You’ll find multiple ways to share news, events, photos, and ideas (see next page), along with the return of the back-by-popular-demand classifieds. We’ll also do our best to highlight happenings around the greater community.
Think of this as a living, evolving space built to inform, connect, and share the everyday story of Pagosa Lakes.
We’re glad you’re here
JeniferPitcher
COMMUNIICATIONS AND LIFESTSYLE MANAGER
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Find Your People at the Clubhouse
Weekly Classes & Clubs at Pagosa Lakes
Some of the best moments at Pagosa Lakes happen on ordinary weekdays inside the clubhouse, where neighbors gather to move, play, laugh, and connect. These community-led classes and clubs are offered by volunteers who generously share their time and talents to keep our community active and engaged.
All offerings are free to attend, with optional donations for some classes. Because these classes are volunteer-led, schedules may occasionally change or pause. We encourage participants to contact the class leader ahead of time to confirm availability and space.
More than a class it’s community. These gatherings bring rhythm to the week, support wellness at every age, and turn the clubhouse into a welcoming space filled with familiar faces and new friendships.
Clubhouse Weekly Schedule
Monday
9:30 AM – Line Dancing 1:00 PM – Women’s Games Group
Thursday
8:30 AM – Tai Chi Chih
10:00 AM – Fitness with June
12:30 PM – Bridge Group
Tuesday 12:00 PM – Bridge Group 5:30 PM – Zumba
Friday 12:00 PM – Bridge Group
Helpful Notes:
• All classes are community volunteer-led
• Free entry for all offerings
• Optional donations for select classes
• Please contact the class leader to confirm schedule and availability
GENERALMANAGER ANNOUNCEMENTS
2026 Dues Assessments: The approved 2026 budget has been posted online; a budget summary was published in the Winter newsletter going to every owner’s residence on record. The 2026 dues assessments are $365 and were charged to all owner accounts on January 25. Emails went out to property owners that provided them with information to set up recurring payments or make a onetime payment. ACH payments were charged to the owner’s accounts on February 1. Statements are being mailed out to all owners.
PLPOA Capital Improvement Plan:
The Board of Directors will hold a work session for the development of the capital improvement plan Thursday, February 12 at 5:30. The Board will review all the submitted projects from the various committees. Committee representatives have been invited to speak to the Board providing information on their projects and to answer any questions. Discussion will take place prioritizing the projects to place on a survey sent out to owners.
Fire Mitigation Scheduled for 2026:
We are working on site locations to continue our greenbelt wildfire mitigation. We are entering the final year of our 5-year plan. The Association will be seeking grant funding again from Wildfire Adaptive Partners. Last year PLPOA received 50% of the costs from Wildfire Adaptive Partners. PLPOA has completed all the large tracts of greenbelts throughout the Association and will be focusing on the smaller tracts running in between neighborhoods. We will be developing specifications for the RFP and sending them out for bid in preparation for the spring. - Additional info found in the DPE report.
PLPOA Financials: The Association will be undergoing its annual audit beginning February 16 by McMahan and Associates. Please keep in mind that the monthly financials will not be posted online until after the audit when fiscal year 2025 has officially closed out. The audit is scheduled to be completed for presentation to the Board at their April 14 meeting.
Mailbox Update: PLPOA has spent over $500,000 on expanding, upgrading and consolidating mailbox sites over the past few years. The Association maintains over 30 sites in the community. Please understand that the Association does NOT assign mailboxes to owners or deliver mail. This is the responsibility of the Post Office. PLPOA maintains the mailbox site and installs the Cluster Box Units (CBU) when notified by the Post Office that all the mailboxes are full. Each CBU contains 16 mailboxes and 2 parcel spaces. The Association has just received another shipment of CBUs which totals 256 mailboxes that can be assigned by the Post Office. Once we are notified of the need, we will install the necessary number of units. If you need a mailbox, please contact the Post Office. - Additional info found in the DPE report.
NEXT MEETING:
L P O A M O N T H L Y
TUESDAY, MARCH 10, 2026 6:00 PM
B O A R D M E E T I N G
A N N O U N C E M E N T
PLPOA MONTHLY BOARD MEETINGS ARE NOW HELD ON THE SECOND TUESDAY OF EACH MONTH AT 6:00 PM
IN PERSON & ON ZOOM
REGULAR MEETING ZOOM LINK
AGENDA MINUTES BOARD ANNOUNCEMENT
CommunityStandards
The Department of Community Standards (DCS) continues to focus on proactive, service-oriented efforts that help protect property values, improve safety, and support homeowners across Pagosa Lakes Below is a snapshot of what’s happening, along with answers to some common questions we’ve received.
Free House Check Program – What to Know
Earlier this winter, we shared information about our no-cost House Check Program for members in good standing. After receiving several great questions from homeowners, we wanted to provide some added clarity:
If an issue is found, DCS communicates directly with the homeowner unless otherwise authorized. These checks are not violation hunts. They are intended to be a proactive management tool focused on safety, maintenance awareness, and community standards.
Inspections are performed by qualified staff or under the supervision of the DCS Manager, who is also a Qualified Stormwater Manager and Building & Engineering Inspector.
Property compliance consultations are available upon request. These informal consultations are educational in nature and aim to address concerns before they become compliance issues.
Community partnerships are encouraged, including coordination with property managers and service providers when requested.
If you have questions or would like to sign up, please contact Chris Simpson, Community Standards Manager, at dcs.mgr@plpoa.com, or visit www.plpoa.com.
Community Standards Trends from January
This year, DCS has begun tracking trends to help guide forwardthinking planning and decision-making. By collecting and analyzing historical data, the department can better anticipate needs, allocate resources, and address concerns proactively.
January Year-to-Date Activity:
Projects: 21
Concerns Addressed: 84
Violations: 25
Our goal remains the same: compliance through engagement, education, and outreach. In most cases, this approach works well. When needed, enforcement tools are available, but they are not the first step.
Moving Toward a Digital Workflow
You spoke — and we listened! The Department of Community Standards will soon transition to a fully digital workflow. This upgrade will streamline processes, improve response times, reduce costs, and enhance the overall experience for homeowners.
Digital tools will also allow for better data tracking, real-time insights, and improved security — helping DCS remain efficient and adaptable in a changing environment.
Employment Opportunity
PLPOA is currently seeking a full-time Administrative Assistant / Office Support team member.
This role supports multiple departments, beginning with training in Community Standards (building, planning, applications, and permitting) and expanding into front-office and receptionist responsibilities over time. The position includes benefits and offers room for professional growth. For more information, please see the AD on Page 18.
February 2026
Property & Environment
As we move through winter and begin looking toward spring, the Department of Property & Environment (DPE) has been busy across the community from our lakes and greenbelts to facilities, mailboxes, and wildfire mitigation efforts. Here’s a snapshot of what’s happening and what’s ahead.
Lakes & Fisheries: Heading into Spring
All four Pagosa Lakes are currently in good condition and sitting near full spill elevation, thanks to the heavy rains we received last October Water quality remains strong, and all lake aeration systems are operating at full capacity.
That said, this winter has been unusually warm and dry, which could impact water availability and quality as we move into spring and summer.
Ice formation has been limited, and it’s looking unlikely we’ll see much of an icefishing season this year.
Looking ahead, DPE is already planning for spring fish stocking. Orders are in place for late March or early April, with trout and bass confirmed and the possibility of adding crappie. A full summary of spring stocking plans will be shared in the March board report once details are finalized. Required environmental reporting to the State (NPDES permitting) has also been completed for the upcoming season.
Winter Projects & Maintenance
The DPE crew has stayed busy throughout January tackling a wide range of projects, including:
Hazard tree removals in greenbelts
Thins Ice warning signs posted at all lakes
Drainage and erosion control work near Lake Pagosa
Christmas tree pickups (over 120 trees collected)
Snow removal during recent storms
Vehicle and equipment maintenance
Interior painting at the Clubhouse
Electrical work at the Rec Center
Willow thinning and trimming in lake park areas
Ongoing janitorial and routine maintenance tasks
We’re hopeful for a bit more winter weather before spring arrives, but regardless, the team continues to stay proactive.
Greenbelt Thinning & Wildfire Mitigation
Planning is well underway for 2026 greenbelt thinning operations, a key part of PLPOA’s wildfire mitigation strategy. Staff will be meeting with the Wildfire Adapted Partnership (WAP) to finalize scope and priorities for the year.
Thanks to progress made over the past four years and continued grant support PLPOA has successfully mitigated several hundred acres of greenbelts. For 2026, the Association has once again qualified for a 50% cost-share grant, allowing for another major push this summer. Eight to ten greenbelt tracts have already been identified for treatment
This year marks Year 5 of PLPOA’s 5-year mitigation plan, and we are on track to have most of the large and mid-sized greenbelts treated by the end of the season, significantly strengthening community wildfire resilience.
2026Goals&CommunityImprovements
Eachyear,theDPEdepartmentsetsgoalstoguideplanning andpriorities.Highlightsfor2026include:
Aquaticweedandalgaecontrolinthelakes
Fishstockingandfishingprogrammanagement
LakeUseRegulationsEnforcement
Dammaintenanceandboatrampimprovements
Parks,trails,andfacilityupgrades
Lakeregulationenforcementandaerationmaintenance
Landscaping, grounds maintenance, and noxious weed control
Mailbox,garden,andfencingimprovements
Continued greenbelt thinning and brush collection to reducewildfirefuels
OngoingcollaborationwithcommitteesandtheBoard
Rec Center outside deck re-construction and new playgroundinstallation
Theseeffortssupportbothday-to-dayoperationsandlongtermstewardshipofourcommunityassets.
MailboxExpansion&Improvements
Mailboxdemandhasincreased significantlyoverthepastfewyears,and evenmoresofollowingtheclosureofthe UPSStorenearCityMarket.Tohelpmeet thisneed,PLPOAwillbereceivingalarge orderofmailboxunitsearlythismonthand planstobegininstallationssoon.
Newandexpandedmailboxinfrastructure hasalreadybeencompletedinareassuch asTwincreek,LakeForestEstates,Lake Pagosa,Vista,MeadowsII–IV,and Highlands.In2026,thefocuswillbeon addingcapacitywheredemandhassurged andexpandingconcretepadsatselect locationsacrossthecommunity.
RECREATION
Rec Cener Manager’s Summary
January was a busy month driven by New Year’s resolutions, though overall attendance was slightly lower than in January 2025. The Recreation Center has also seen reduced Wyndham participation due to the loss of Mountain Meadows, Elk Run, Masters Place, and Village Pointe.
I have begun exploring potential changes to the membership structure. One option under consideration would offer a reduced membership rate for property owners who are current on annual dues, compared to long-term renters. Further analysis is needed to determine the revenue impact of this change.
Additionally, I am gathering bids for the development of a 60-yard natural grass field near the park and dog park. This space would expand spring-through-fall programming opportunities.
Events & Programs – See associated flyers on the following pages
CPR Training
The CPR/AED for Professional Rescuers (CPRO) program prepares professional-level responders to manage breathing and cardiac emergencies involving adults, children, and infants until advanced medical personnel arrive. The course has been updated to current International Liaison Committee on Resuscitation (ILCOR) guidelines and incorporates American Red Cross Aquatic Guidelines and Best Practices, based on scientific evidence reviews conducted by the Red Cross Scientific Advisory Council
Course topics include:
Rapid assessment
Ventilations using a resuscitation mask
Two-rescuer bag-valve-mask use
CPR and AED (single, two-rescuer, and 4-rescuer team response)
Obstructed airway care (responsive and unresponsive victims)
Course dates and details are available on the PLPOA Recreation Programs webpage.
Swim Lessons
March swim lesson dates have been released. Two beginner classes and one intermediate class will be offered. Swim Lessons | Pagosa Lakes Property Owners Association
Pagosa Lakes Porpoises Swim Team
Practices begin in February, with three practices per week starting in March. Scheduling and fee information is available on the Porpoises Swim Team webpage. Porpoises Swim Team | Pagosa Lakes Property Owners Association
Aquaphobia (18+)
This beginner-level class is designed for adults with a fear of water. Instruction focuses on a calm, supportive environment emphasizing relaxation, breathing control, water comfort, floating, and basic movement. Progression is individualized, with the primary goal of building confidence and reducing fear.
Facilities & Maintenance
Ongoing water pressure issues have been identified at locker room sinks in both the men’s and women’s locker rooms. Shower pressure remains normal. New filtration pumps have been ordered for the lap pool and jacuzzi, providing backup for critical pool equipment.
A new boiler for the lap pool has arrived. While the original unit was still functional, replacement was appropriate due to age.
PLPOAisHIRING
Administrative Assistant / Office Support
Pagosa Lakes Property Owners Association – Pagosa Springs, CO
Pagosa Lakes Property Owners Association (PLPOA) is seeking a motivated and organized Administrative Assistant to join our team. This position plays a key role in supporting daily operations and providing excellent service to our members and the community.
Position Overview
The Administrative Assistant facilitates a broad spectrum of administrative and front-office responsibilities across multiple departments. This is a growth-oriented position, with responsibilities expanding throughout the year as training progresses.
The role will begin with focused training in the Department of Community Standards, supporting building, planning, applications, and permitting. Over time, the position will also assume duties of the Office Receptionist, serving as a primary point of contact for owners, residents, and visitors
Key Responsibilities
- Assist with building and planning applications and permitting processes
- Provide administrative support for the Department of Community Standards
- Answer and route general inquiries across all departments
- Manage scheduling and internal communications
- Sell fishing and boating passes and process related transactions
- Serve as front office receptionist as training progresses
- Assist with Board meeting preparation and take official meeting minutes
- Maintain records, data entry, and document organization
- Support additional administrative tasks as responsibilities expand
Ideal Candidate
Direct experience in a property management or HOA environment is not required. The ideal candidate is a quick learner with strong attention to detail, self-motivated, comfortable with computers and office software, strong in customer service and professional communication, calm and adaptable, and career-driven with an interest in long-term growth.
What We Offer
- Steady, structured training
- Opportunity for professional growth and expanded responsibilities
- A collaborative, community-focused work environment
Payments for Your 2026 PLPOA Dues
How toAccess theOwner’sPortal
• Go to plpoa.com and click “Owners Portal / Make a Payment” in the top right corner of the page (desktop view), OR Go directly to: portal.plpoa.com
• If you do not have your login information, email jenp@plpoa.com with:
• • Your full name Your PLPOA property address
We will get you set up.
Please note: Attempting to request portal setup or retrieve forgotten passwords through the website is not always user-friendly. Emailing directly is typically a much faster and smoother process.
Important Note About 2026 Auto-Draft
Setting up Auto-Draft now will not pull your 2026 assessment. If you enroll in Auto-Draft at this point, it will apply to your 2027 assessment and future years. Auto-drafts are processed once per year on February 2nd. You may:
• • Make a one-time payment for 2026, and Set up Auto-Draft for future years through the Owner’s Portal. If you own multiple properties:
• • Payments must be set up separately for each property. If properties are under the same name and linked, they can be managed within the same Owner’s Portal login.
Important Dates to Remember
• • The annual assessment is posted to your account around January 25th each year. Payment must be received by May 1st to avoid late fees.
Make a One-Time Payment for 2026
1. From the Home or Payment tab, click “Make a Payment.”
2. Under Payment Type, select “One-Time Payment.”
3. Choose Credit Card or Bank Account, then follow the prompts.
Processing Fees:
• • • Credit Card: 2.99% processing fee Bank Account (ACH): $1.99 flat transaction fee
To avoid fees: Mail or drop off a check or cash at: 230 Port Ave., Pagosa Springs, CO 81147
(You may also use the drop box address listed on your tearaway invoice.)
Setting Up Annual Auto-Draft (Applies to 2027 and future years see disclaimer above) Set it once and you’re done your annual assessment will automatically draft each February. How to Enroll:
1. Log in at portal.plpoa.com
2. From the Home tab, your account balance appears at the top of the screen.
3. Under your balance, locate Auto-Draft: NOT ENROLLED and click the pencil icon to edit.
4. Follow the prompts to enroll.
5. Your payment will automatically draft on February 2nd each year.
Good to Know:
✔ Auto-Draft applies to annual assessments only.
✖ It will not automatically pay other charges on your account.
Option 2: Combine Auto-Draft with Monthly Installments
If you prefer to spread payments throughout the year, you can build credit on your account monthly. When February arrives, Auto-Draft will pull only the remaining balance of your annual assessment.
Step
1:
Enroll in Annual Auto-Draft (see instructions above).
Step 2:
Set Up a Recurring Monthly Payment:
1. Click “Make a Payment.”
2. Under Payment Type, select “Recurring Payment.”
3. Under Payment Method, choose:
o Credit Card (2.99% processing fee), or
o Bank Account ($1.99 processing fee).
4. Select “Pay Other Amount.”
5. Choose your Start Date.
6. Choose your Payment Frequency.
Example:
If you set up $25 per month starting in March, you will gradually build credit on your account throughout the year.
When February 2nd arrives, your Auto-Draft will pull only the remaining balance owed.
☎ Need Help?
If this process feels cumbersome but you like the idea of paying a little each month, we’re happy to walk you through it.
� Call us at 970-731-5635 ext. 210
