Your Neighborhood
March 2018
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State of the Association By David L. Jones Executive Director
Last year, there were 417 homes resold in Dobson Ranch. Prospective and new homeowners that come into the office cannot believe how low the assessment rate is and that it includes all the amenities, events and more. Compared to most associations $138.60 per quarter is a bargain. There has not been an increase to the Association assessments since 2015. Financially, the Association is healthy. At the end of December 2017, the Association operating account was at $2 million, the reserve account at $2.2 million, and Capital account at $416k. So, what does that all mean? The Operating Account covers the daily expenses of the Association. Insurance, utilities, maintenance, Landscape, payroll, and events are paid from the operation account. It also funds Reserves, Capital and Water Conservation. Total expenses for 2017 were 2.8 million. The Association develops a plan to fund for future repairs or replacements. In order to do that, each year the Association has a reserve study prepared by a reserve specialist. The study consists of two parts; 1) the information about the physical status and repair/replacement cost of the major common area components that the Association is obligated to maintain, and 2) the evaluation and analysis of the Association’s reserve balance, income and expenses. All this information helps the Association Board to plan for funding the Reserve Account. The January 2017 reserve study showed if our Reserves were fully funded we would need a balance of $2.4 million, we had a beginning balance in the Reserve Account of $2 million and a funded rate of 83%. At the end of December 2017, reserve expense was $386k. Expected expenses for 2018 is budgeted for $613k. Prospective homebuyers ask for reserve information prior to purchasing a house within an as-
sociation. A higher percent funded reserve study informs the prospective buyer and the homeowner that it is less likely that the Association would ask for a special assessment. Many of us like new things, for our home or personal use. So why wouldn’t that carry over to the use of the common areas? Any new asset purchased is funded from the Capital Account. Capital expenses keep the Association relevant, accommodating the needs of the current homeowners and prospective buyers. The mission of the Board is to maintain property values. You may have to spend money to do that, not just cut expenses. Just as your expenses increase each year, so do those of the Association. A significant impact to the Association last year was the increase to minimum wage. It was a 19% increase from the year prior. Minimum wage will continue to increase fifty cents each year until it reaches $12 per hour in the year 2020. Although there have been increases to expenses, the Association has managed to not increase assessments, which in turn brings value to the Association and homes within. At monthly meetings, the Board conducts the business of the Association. These meeting are open to the membership of the Association. The Association Board is made up of homeowners who live within the community. Just like you, they too are homeowners that pay assessments and must live inside the rules of the governing documents. Each month, the Association Board must make decisions on behalf of the homeowners. As servant leaders should, they look to the needs of the Association and not their own when making decisions. Board of Directors have a responsibility to be present and engaged for monthly meetings. Overtime, it is necessary to have the Association documents updated and then reviewed by the Association attorneys to enSTATE OF THE ASSCIATION | 5
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March 2018
Your Neighborhood
STATE OF THE ASSCIATION CONT.
sure compliance with federal, state and city laws. Law changes are yearly, so annually, the Board reviews the changes and with the recommendations from the attorney, update the documents. The Board also creates committees to encourage homeowner participation. Homeowners can join the Master Planning, Budget and Finance, Marketing, Recreation, and various ADHOC committees. The Board uses the committee’s recommendation when making decisions. The Association welcomes you to become involved. Overall, the Association is healthy with funding to support daily operations, events, future projects and maintaining assets. All this is done with committee and Board involvement.
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Compliance By Susan Richards
The Dobson Associations’ Compliance Department is here to help keep Dobson Ranch looking great! It’s easy to forget exactly what is in our Associations’ documents. Most of us read the documents upon purchase of our home and they are filed away. Please take a moment to review the documents and then take a close look at your property. Details of the process as well as the Associations governing documents, can be found on our website (DobsonRanch.com) under community governing documents. When there is a violation of the documents the letter process followed is: • Friendly Reminder – 21 days to respond / correct violation • First Violation – violation still exists and there has been no communication from the homeowner, 10 days to respond / correct violation • Second Violation -- violation still exists and there has been no communication from the homeowner, $75.00 fine, 10 days to respond / correct violation • Final Violation -- violation still exists and there has been no communication from the homeowner, $125.00 fine, 10 days to respond / correct violation • Pre-Attorney Notice -- violation exists and there has been no communication from the homeowner, 10 days to respond / correct violation • Violation case referred to Association Attorney – day 62 -$100.00 fee Once the violation is referred to the attorney, it is taken through the legal system to gain compliance. It is a costly and lengthy process which can often be avoided through communication. Fortunately, less than 1% of all notices sent get to this level, between 80 and 90 percent are corrected with the Friendly Reminder. When a violation does reach the legal process, it can be frustrating for neighbors and the Association alike, as a resolve can take an extremely long time. If you receive a letter and do not believe it is a violation or do not agree with the notice please call or email the Association. We can discuss the violation and determine if there is truly a violation, and if so, how it will be remedied. Our CC&R staff spend time and energy on sending notices regarding “small” items, for example, storage of trash containers. Please store trash containers out of sight. Often the smaller issues are viewed as being inconsequential – when you look at the bigger picture they add up and greatly impact the appearance of our neighborhood (I’m picturing 5,000 trash cans lining the streets and driveways of Dobson Ranch). It’s often the small things that make our neighborhood the best it can be. The key to our relationship is communication. We strive to fairly and reasonably enforce the documents in order to maintain property values and keep Dobson Ranch a wonderful community to live in! Please do your part, while showing your love of Dobson Ranch! THE DOBSON ASSOCIATION 5
Your Neighborhood
March 2018
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BOARD CANDIDATE BIOS The following responses from each candidate are complete and unedited. Joan K Long Dobson Ranch owner and resident Do you regularly attend Dobson Ranch HOA board meetings? Yes What is your motivation for running for the Board of Directors? Because I care What activities, events, programs, and/or amenities do you enjoy at Dobson Ranch? Budget and Finance, 3 years; Planning Committee, 2 years; Board Meetings As you look at the Dobson Ranch community, what specific challenges do you see facing the HOA? In Last 3 years, By Laws changed to give
Board more power, Homeowners Less. Too, we now have unequal voter access and No Election Committee – This is Not Democratic. Autobiography: Owned a home in Dobson Ranch for29 years. Employed by Chrysler Corporation, Detroit Public Schools and State Department plus others grand and not so grand. I have resided in six states and four foreign countries. This does not make me an expert but I say Dobson Ranch, a forty year old undertaking by Keating has proved to be one of the most unique and wonderful HOA’s put together. We have the greatest location, wonderful perks that we do not pay for, and SPACE. We have churches and schools AND people who enjoy the American way and support the governing association We have wonderful loyal employees. This is a worthy endeavor – Lets support and respect our heritage. Be Proud, Get Involved.
Susan Powers Dobson Ranch owner and resident Do you regularly attend Dobson Ranch HOA board meetings? Yes, I have regularly attended HOA Board Meetings for the past 7.5 years. What is your motivation for running for the Board of Directors? I would be honored to continue serving YOU, the homeowner, as a member of the Dobson Ranch HOA Board of Directors; Representing your voice on matters that concern finances, growth and stability in our Ranch. In the past 7 years I have enjoyed serving the Ranch and its homeowners. I believe together we can continue to make this community the “best place to live” as well as attract new homeowners and businesses to our location. We have singles, couples, growing families, empty nesters, and retirees all living in the same neighborhoods. We are like an urban setting in the suburbs. Schools/ libraries, restaurants, grocery/retail stores are all within walking distance. What activities, events, programs, and/or amenities do you enjoy at Dobson Ranch? My family attends many of the activities on the Ranch. I think it is important as a Director to attend events and get feedback from Homeowners. Some of my favorites are Winter Wonderland, the Halloween Spooktacular and the Easter Egg Hunt. I have also attended classes at La Casita including Yoga, Tai Chi, Tennis, and Swimming. My family enjoys walking the lakes as a relaxing activity or a work out. As you look at the Dobson Ranch community, what specific challenges do you see facing the HOA? A critical issue that is facing our community is keeping Dobson Ranch attractive to new homeowners and nearby businesses. We must continue to take care of our facilities as well as keep a close relationship with nearby schools and businesses. We already have an amazing location, wonderful amenities, and a financially stable community, as well as a great relationship with the City of Mesa. Now it’s important to look forward to our future while keeping the stability of our past. I believe we can keep assessments low while continuing to update and maintain the Ranch. For the past 3 years the assessments have not been increased, while Dobson Ranch has continued to improve its facilities as well as its activities; A true win-win for everyone. Autobiography: I am a USAF Veteran and REALTOR®. My family moved to Dobson Ranch 13 years ago due to its diversity, location, and family atmosphere. I have had the privilege to serve on the Dobson Ranch Board of Directors for the past 7 years. Two years as President and three years as Vice President. I have been involved in Dobson Ranch HOA Committee’s such as the Beautification Committee, Budget and Finance Committee, Marketing Committee, and Recreation Committee. My community involvement has included the PTA, the Red Cross, Habitat for Humanity, Mesa Chamber of Commerce Women’s Council as well as other organizations. I believe in serving my country as well as my community. 6 THE DOBSON ASSOCIATION
Bozidar D Radisich Dobson Ranch owner and resident Do you regularly attend Dobson Ranch HOA board meetings? Yes What is your motivation for running for the Board of Directors? To assure that Dobson Ranch continues to be a community that is a great place to live. What activities, events, programs, and/or amenities do you enjoy at Dobson Ranch? Swim, kayak, Retirees Club As you look at the Dobson Ranch community, what specific challenges do you see facing the HOA? The need to manage funding without creating new problems, now that the reserve fund is fully funded. Autobiography: I have served 6 years on Board of Directors, now treasurer. Have chaired master planning, managed the end of wall project and reserve funding. I was actively involved in the pool deck renovations and other ongoing projects like the pending volleyball court replacement, and a meeting room at Los Altos, more boat slips and bathrooms at Laguna Park. I have an MBA from University of Phoenix. I am a retired small business owner.
Gary A Smith Dobson Ranch owner and resident Do you regularly attend Dobson Ranch HOA board meetings? Yes What is your motivation for running for the Board of Directors? Cut expenses Increase Revenues without raising homeowner fees I WOULD ACTUALLY LIKE TO REDUCE THEM. Improve the Lakes (save the lakes) Increase homeowner awareness Better the Ranch to increase value and pride. What activities, events, programs, and/or amenities do you enjoy at Dobson Ranch? Swimming Boating, Fishing, Walks, Picnics, Helping the less fortunate, charity involvement As you look at the Dobson Ranch community, what specific challenges do you see facing the HOA? Decrease crime + Better Senior Living – Lighting – Appearance. Safer + wider walkways Slowing down the traffic on roads throughout the Ranch. Increase activity + Program participation through better awareness Better Lake quality of water
Your Neighborhood
March 2018
Gary A Smith cont. Autobiography: Born ‘51 Chicago Il. Excelled in baseball + hockey Started working 1968-71 Pension 73-83 Pension 84-2009-Retired Pt-2010-present Married 83 Moved from Chicago Il – to Mesa AZ – 1983 – 2000 – 2016 – present Education A.A.-B.A. M.A. – Bus Ad/Mgmt Lived on Ranch 83-present Served on board ’96-’99 Served on Water Com. – Fish Club. Charities – Anglers United 96- |Lions Club| present charity Car Club events – A2Z Cruizers Go to Central Christian Church + 2 Bible Studies ea. wk on Sat Holy Spirit - Sunday
Louis H. Thiele Dobson Ranch owner and resident
Do you regularly attend Dobson Ranch HOA board meetings? No What is your motivation for running for the Board of Directors? Although I have not been able to regularly attend Dobson Ranch meetings in the past due to work related travel I have always been interested in Ranch business affairs. In the past three decades I have lived on The Ranch, I have traveled over much of the world. I recognize what a special place Mesa and Dobson Ranch are. I want to help keep it that way. What activities, events, programs, and/or amenities do you enjoy at Dobson Ranch? I enjoy using the Parks on the Ranch and the Swimming Pool with my grandkids. I also appreciate the aesthetic beauty of a HOA community. As you look at the Dobson Ranch community, what specific challenges do you see facing the HOA? The biggest challenge most “Mature Facilities” face is how to keep up with maintenance and needed improvements in a rising cost environment. Encouraging homeowners in the Ranch to maintain their property to meet the HOA Standards is an on-going engaging process. Considering the possibility of water shortages in our Arizona Desert, keeping our beautiful lake environment may be difficult in the future. Autobiography: My family has lived in Arizona since 1889 when my GrandMother came here in a covered wagon from Colorado. My family has been involved in Retail, Mining, Railroading and Education in various parts of the state. My Mother was chosen “Arizona Teacher of the year” in 1984. I grew up in Central Phoenix attending West High School and Graduating from Arizona State. I worked in the Airline Industry for fifteen years and in Travel Agency management for fifteen more with Arizona AAA. For the past twelve years I have been V. P. of Operations and Marketing for a multi-part medical marketing corporation in Scottsdale. I have also been Co-Host of a radio show with Michael Dixon syndicated on CBS in multiple top ten markets. I have had many business area responsibilities with these companies including facility management, financial oversight, advertising and staffing.
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George Tihanyi Dobson Ranch owner and resident
Do you regularly attend Dobson Ranch HOA board meetings? Yes What is your motivation for running for the Board of Directors? Dobson Ranch is a great place to live with many wonderful amenities. I would like to continue my role in leading the community forward by overseeing continued growth and future improvement, being part of the central decision-making on the major issues and by ensuring that the collect vision of the home-owners is fairly represented and maintain the high standards that the community is known for. What activities, events, programs, and/or amenities do you enjoy at Dobson Ranch? I have been involved in many activities such as toys for tots, boating on our lakes, swimming activities, and attending various community activities as well as mesa city activities. As you look at the Dobson Ranch community, what specific challenges do you see facing the HOA? The greatest challenges are to keep Dobson Ranch moving forward as a progressive community while being mindful of the cost to the homeowners and residents as well as maintain a well-established partnership with the city of Mesa. Autobiography: I have been a Dobson Ranch resident for 29 years. My 34 year career has encompassed being an educator in economics, political science and history, director of continuing community education. I was director of site operations for Rio Salado College. My focus was maintaining high standards of academics, managing multiple physical operations at all college sites and supervising over 75 people. I have been an active volunteer for charity for over 20 years including fundraising activities for Sunsounds of Arizona radio station servicing the visually challenged and for KJZZ-KBAC. As a board member for the last three years, I have served on the water management committee, as well as two ad hoc committees dealing with employee benefits and revision of by-laws, common area guidelines and residential guidelines. I am currently chairing the master planning committee. I have actively, for the last three years, supported a freeze on homeowner fees.
Annual Meeting Raffle Each year there is a raffle at the annual meeting for homeowners that attend the meeting. Raffle prizes are donated by Association vendors. This year we would like to extend this opportunity to those that are unable to attend. All raffle prizes will be drawn from those who have voted electronically or by paper ballot on or before April 6. Winners will be notified at the annual meeting or the next day and be posted in the May Ranchers’ Roundup. Prizes range from $25 to $100 gift cards, *$199 WiFi smart irrigation controller and gift baskets. Vote early to be added into the raffle. All electronic and paper ballots will be accepted for the 2018 Board of Directors election prior to April 10, 2018 at 6:00 pm. *Smart controller is donated from the Water Management Committee. Controller includes install at home within Dobson Ranch. Cannot be installed outside of Dobson Ranch. This is part of the Dobson Ranch Water Conservation program.
THE DOBSON ASSOCIATION 7