JULY 2025
Top Realtor in Baldwin Park since 2015
Orlando HOT 100 Realtors since 2019
Baldwin Park Resident for over 20 years
Ranked in Top Producer Magazine since 2015
Gold Key Certified Orlando 5 Star Professional Realtor
Orlando Style Magazine since 2017
JULY 2025
Editor and Publisher Michael Eng, meng@orangeobserver.com
Brie Bernstel, Fay Zhao and Suz Tapy
Sales Associate Kassie Gustafson, kgustafson@orangeobserver.com
Graphic Designer — Sarah Santiago, ssantiago@orangeobserver.com
To submit story ideas, calendar listings or have your event considered for
contact Suz Tapy at stapy@baldwinparkpoa.com.
For advertising inquiries, call (407) 656-2121.
Baldwin Park Living is a monthly publication of the Observer Media Group published in partnership with the Baldwin Park Joint Committee Inc.
THURSDAY, JULY 3
INDEPENDENCE BASH
6 to 10 p.m. Thursday, July 3, at Baldwin Park Village Center. The Independence Bash will take place on New Broad Street and will feature a free fireworks display, free face painting, free balloon animals and more! Check your weekly newsletter or social media for full details.
FRIDAY, JULY 4
INDEPENDENCE DAY
THURSDAY, JULY 10
ARCHITECTURAL REVIEW COMMITTEE
6:30 p.m. Thursday, July 10, virtually. Because of the high volume of applications, the number is being capped at 25 per meeting. Subsequent
applications will be held for the next scheduled ARC meeting.
SATURDAY, JULY 12
POOL PARTY
Saturday, July 12, at High Park. The next pool party will feature free treats and refreshments sponsored by the ROA. Residents: Check your weekly newsletter for more information.
THURSDAY, JULY 17
TSAC MEETING
6:30 p.m. Thursday, July 17, virtually. All information for the meeting also can be found on the Baldwin Park Network, along with the link to join the meeting.
SATURDAY, JULY 19
COMMUNITY
MARKET DAY
5:30 to 9:30 p.m. Saturday, July 19. Stroll down New Broad Street for shopping, live music and even snag some dinner. Find the full vendor list by searching “BP Community Market Day” on Facebook.
THURSDAY, JULY 24
ARCHITECTURAL REVIEW COMMITTEE
6:30 p.m. Thursday, July 24, virtually. Because of the current high volume of Residential ARC applications, the number of applications accepted is being capped at 25 per meeting.
Pet of the Month goes to Scout and Ace! Labradors Scout, 5, and Ace, 3, love to eat, walk and chase their cat brothers, Ozzy and Bo!
If you have a pet you would like to see as Pet of the Week in the weekly newsletter, along with being submitted for Pet of the Month in the magazine, email a headshot to Suz Tapy at stapy@baldwinparkpoa. com with a little information about your furry family member.
Here is how you can help protect the beautiful creatures that also call Baldwin Park home.
SUZ TAPY
COMMUNITY RELATIONS
COORDINATOR
SENTRY MANAGEMENT
In Baldwin, we’re fortunate to live and work among vibrant flora and fauna. Our proximity to preservation areas means we share our community with protected wildlife.
In the spring, you might spot mallard ducks near community pools or sandhill cranes foraging for insects, earthworms and roots in our parks. Recently, a Muscovy duck, affectionately named “Wade” by residents, was seen regularly waddling along the trail, capturing hearts on social media.
Spending time in nature can make us feel more peaceful, centered and connected. But with that connection comes the responsibili-
ty to be informed and considerate. Many of the species we encounter are protected due to ongoing threats to their survival. Experts agree: the most effective way to protect these animals is by safeguarding the habitats they depend on.
Baldwin Park’s ongoing conservation efforts focus on restoring and maintaining vital natural ecosystems, including flatwoods, sand hills, sand pine scrub and wetland habitats. The area around Lake Baldwin is a conservation area, with shoreline preservation as a priority, not waterfront property, to focus on passive recreation.
The community was designed with sustainability in mind, including wildlife corridors, stormwater filtration systems and the thoughtful relocation of mature trees. Baldwin Park worked with environmental partners such as the Audubon Society, and the re -
You don’t have to be a scientist to protect wildlife. Simple changes at home and in your daily routine can make a meaningful difference
n Secure your garbage with locking lids to avoid attracting animals.
n Feed pets indoors to prevent unintended feeding of wildlife.
n Use bird-safe window decals to reduce bird collisions. Millions of birds die each year from flying into glass.
n Plant native species in your yard or community garden. Native plants support local birds, insects, and pollinators while reducing the impact of invasive species.
n Give wildlife space. Observe from a distance and avoid feeding or approaching wild animals.
n Educate others. Share what you know about protected species and sustainable practices with friends and neighbors.
n Every creature we share this Earth with has a place and a purpose. When we choose to respect and protect local wildlife, we’re not just preserving nature—we’re preserving something deeply human: our capacity for compassion. The future depends on it.
sult is more than 400 acres of open space, creating a park system that supports both recreation and ecological health.
These green spaces are connected to lakes and neighborhoods, offering benefits not only for wildlife but also for residents who enjoy nature walks, birdwatching and outdoor activities.
It’s common to see hawks, turtles, waterbirds, squirrels, rabbits and even otters in the spring. In fact, ebird.org has recorded 126 bird species in and around Lake Baldwin. Occasionally, more elusive animals such as alligators or coyotes may appear. These sightings serve as reminders that we share our community with a variety of species, some of which are legally protected. Understanding the habits and behaviors of local animals can help reduce fear and ensure both human and animal safety. Many times, simply knowing the facts helps us respond calmly and appropriately when we encounter wildlife that might seem intimidating.
The American alligator has remained unchanged for 8 million years. The adult male is anywhere between 10 to 15 feet long, and his tail alone can make up half of his total length, and helps steer while swimming.
Dominant males typically kick out the weaker males during mating season, which is one of the reasons Floridians see more gators in
their yards, retention ponds and pools during the summer months. If you encounter an alligator, do not attempt to handle the situation yourself. While viral videos of people trapping alligators in trash cans might be entertaining, they are dangerous and can lead to serious injury or worse.
Alligator removal should always be handled by licensed professionals who are trained to safely and legally manage wildlife, including species that may be protected or regulated, such as the alligator. To report a nuisance gator, contact the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission’s Nuisance Alligator Hotline at 866-FWC-GATOR.
Bats have gotten a bad rap over the years, largely because of myths and fear. Often portrayed as creepy or dangerous in pop culture, the truth is bats play a critical role in maintaining healthy ecosystems. Florida is home to 13 species of bats, with eight found right here in Central Florida. These nocturnal creatures are incredibly helpful: they consume their entire body weight in insects every night, including mosquitoes, making them a natural, chemical-free form of pest control. Bats are also global pollinators and seed dispersers. Because of habitat loss, many bats have moved into urban structures such as gazebos, statues and occasionally homes. However, bat removal is legally restricted in
Florida. Bats are protected during their mating season (April 15 to Aug. 15). Removing or killing bats during this period is illegal and carries penalties. This is to protect flightless pups, which rely on their mothers for survival.
The Urban Orlando Community Development District is actively supporting bat conservation. In Baldwin Park, they have installed five bat houses, along with purple martin boxes (also federally protected) and duck nesting boxes near our many bodies of water.
Recently, a woman and her children were seen chasing sandhill cranes peacefully foraging Corrine Commons, and it caused them to take flight in alarm.
These sandhill cranes are more than just a lovely sight — they are protected under the U.S. Migratory Bird Treaty Act and are considered a state-designated threatened species in Florida. It is illegal to harass, kill or intentionally feed them.
While no harm may have been intended, interactions such as this can have real consequences. Chasing wildlife causes stress, interrupts feeding and nesting behavior, and teaches others, especially children, that such actions are acceptable when they are not.
Just like humans, animals require space to thrive, and for both, Baldwin Park is a beautiful place to do just that.
The city of Orlando is celebrating 150 years this month.
SUZ TAPY COMMUNITY RELATIONS
COORDINATOR
SENTRY MANAGEMENT
This month marks a major milestone: the city of Orlando turns 150 years old! In honor of this momentous occasion, the Orange County Regional History Center
is hosting a special exhibition titled Orlando Collected — a fascinating collection of artifacts, photographs, oral histories and other treasures from throughout our city’s past. Fittingly, the exhibit features 150 items, one for each year of Orlando’s history.
One of the most significant pieces in the collection comes from the office of Mayor Buddy Dyer: the original Minutes Book, which records the actual vote that established Orlando as an incorporated city on July 31, 1875. Interestingly, while Orlando was
located at 14 S. Orange Ave. and later moved to 20 E. Pine St. Mrs. Branch left behind a vivid and heartfelt account of her family’s journey in a personal journal, a treasure trove of local and national history. In her entry dated Oct. 28, 1903, she recounted the family’s bold decision to leave their home and business in Parker, South Dakota, for the promise of a new life in Orlando. Her journal chronicles not only that migration but also a range of extraordinary events — from a traveling circus’s visit to town, to a rare instance of a thousand-dollar bill being used at a soda fountain. She wrote of knowing someone who perished on the Titanic, marveled at the scandal of 1915 fashion with dresses hemmed two inches above the ankle and recorded reflections on World War II.
first settled and named in 1857, it officially became a city through a vote by just 22 people. At the time, only 85 individuals were eligible to vote — restricted to white, male property owners.
In the spirit of this milestone, I’ve been doing some digging and wanted to share a few little-known facts about the people, places, and stories that have shaped Orlando. It’s been 150 remarkable years of growth, change, and community—and there’s no better time to look back on how far we’ve come.
The Birth of “The City Beautiful,” Orlando’s Enduring Motto
Between 1877 and 1894, Florida began transforming into a more modern and inviting place. The arrival of the railroad, alongside the construction of grand hotels and resorts, helped turn the state into a sought-after destination. Orlando, nestled in the heart of Central Florida, was no exception.
In 1908, Orlando received the motto it still proudly bears today: “The City Beautiful.” The phrase was coined by Mrs. Jessie Johnson Branch, a local bookstore owner whose business was first
Yet perhaps her most lasting legacy came from the 1908 city slogan competition, intended to replace the earlier and less memorable “The Phenomenal City” (adopted in 1886). Jessie’s winning entry, “The City Beautiful,” captured the community’s imagination and inspired a citywide beautification movement that would soon begin reshaping Orlando’s streets, parks, and public spaces.
The Branch family embraced the new motto wholeheartedly, printing it on postcards and stationery sold in their bookstore — quietly but powerfully embedding it into the city’s identity for generations to come.
The Azaleas of Orlando and a Legacy in Bloom In 1894, a splash of color arrived in Orlando in the form of the city’s first azaleas — 12 vibrant varieties brought all the way from Britain. These flowering plants were introduced at 124 W. America St., near Lake Lucerne, by a well-traveled gentleman named Picton Warlow.
Warlow, a prominent attorney, was passionate about beautifying the city. Though his busy schedule kept him from planting the azaleas himself, he presented them to the city council with the
hope they would take root across Orlando. The effort was taken up by Colonel H. H. Dickson, who not only managed the planting but later became something of an azalea ambassador — selling the plants door-to-door in the 1930s and 1940s to encourage their spread throughout the community.
Today, Dickson Azalea Park, one of Orlando’s oldest and most beloved green spaces, bears his name in recognition of his dedication to the city’s floral legacy. Interestingly, while Dickson’s epitaph reads “Brought the first azaleas to Orlando,” historical evidence suggests that the credit more accurately belongs to Warlow, whose vision sparked the movement.
Still, between Warlow’s gift and Dickson’s passion, Orlando quite literally blossomed — adding beauty and color that continues to define the city’s charm.
SWAN SONG: The Birds
That Stole Orlando’s Heart
In 1910, Orlando’s enduring love for swans began with a heartfelt gesture by Charles Lord, an Englishman who had settled near
Lake Lucerne — then the city’s most popular public gathering spot. Feeling homesick for the graceful swans that glided along the Thames River back home, Lord imported two pairs of swans: one white, one black.
This small flock marked the beginning of a legacy. The white male, named Billy, quickly earned a reputation for his aggressive nature. To restore peace on the lake, the black pair was relocated to Lake Eola, where their descendants still charm visitors today.
Billy, however, became something of a legend. Dubbed the “tyrant of Lake Lucerne,” he ruled his waters with unapologetic bravado. After his passing, Billy was preserved through taxidermy and is now occasionally displayed at the Orange County Regional History Center as a quirky, feathered piece of Orlando’s past.
More than a century later, swans remain beloved symbols of the city. Their elegant presence across Orlando’s lakes speaks to both the city’s beauty and its residents’ deep affection for their feathered neighbors — many of whom may still carry a bit of Billy’s bold spirit.
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BRIE BERNSTEL MULTIMEDIA & COMMUNITY COORDINATOR
Christmas in July? How cliché! Let’s talk Halloween in July!
The Baldwin Park Residential Owners Association is thrilled to announce a whole new house decorating contest kicking off in 2025. “Baldwin Park After Dark” is set to run from Oct. 1 to 27, and winners will be announced in the weekly newsletter the week of Halloween.
If you aren’t familiar with the Light Up Baldwin Park contest that occurs annually during the month of December, this fun community wide contest brings the spirit of the holidays out in some good old-fashioned friendly competition. Light Up Baldwin Park is divided into categories because there are so many different
ways to decorate for the holiday season. However with Halloween, it is spooky all the way, so there will be first-, second- and thirdplace winners incorporating single-family homes, townhomes, apartments, businesses and everyone in-between. Each winner will win a gift card to the Baldwin Park business of their choosing.
Enhance your Halloween weekend by taking friends or family around the neighborhood, following the map and deciding who you would have chosen as the winners. The map will be posted on our social media at @VisitBaldwinPark or via your weekly newsletter, which you can sign up for at baldwinparknetwork.com.
If you didn’t already know, Baldwin Park consistently ranks
among the top trick-or-treating destinations in the nation and it’s not hard to see why. In a HomeUnion study, it secured the stop in the top 20 US neighborhoods for Halloween, even placing 12th overall (Orlandoweekly.com). What sets Baldwin Park apart is its thoughtfully designed, mixeduse streets and safe, friendly atmosphere. Community spirit thrives within our wonderful community and residents go all out with decoration, from fog machines to porch magic, this contest will be sure to bring out all the spooky and creative vibes. Residents, stay tuned for more details on this new and exciting contest!
Hello! My name is Fay Zhao, and I am excited to join Baldwin Park Living Magazine as a teen contributor. I am a se nior at Trinity Preparatory School and have lived in Baldwin for 7 years. When I am not making one of my many pit stops to Publix, I can often be found counting bunnies by Lake Susanna.
With the school year officially behind us, Baldwin Park students are heading into summer ready to relax, recharge and enjoy a break from homework and exams. But for the precious days at home, there are a
plethora of fun activities right here in Baldwin Park. Whether you’re looking to unwind, hang out with friends or explore something new, Baldwin offers numerous opportunities for families and teens to make the most of their summer.
Here are a few local summer gotos straight from Baldwin teens.
1Brunch & Banter. Do you enjoy a lazy Sunday morning brunch? Baldwin Perk Cafe has a cozy ambiance with a family-friendly vibe. Located along New Broad Street, the cafe models after the TV show “Friends” café hangout,
Central Perk, with its contemporary art pieces and colorful scenery, coupled with an array of comfortable seating. It is the perfect spot for friends, family and even pets to relax and enjoy a nice morning.
Sixteen-year-old Olivia Agnew is a regular at Baldwin Perk, often stopping in with friends and family. Her go-to order? The ham, cheddar and egg croissant with a house salad as a side.
“One of my favorite places to get food is Baldwin Perk,” Agnew says. “It’s a really good cafe, and I like it because they are dog-friendly. I also love the theme — all the decorations are super cute.”
2Breaking a Sweat. Before brunch, Agnew and her family kick off their Sundays with a group workout at F45, a local gym offering 45-minute high-intensity interval training (HIIT) classes. The rotating stations and partner workouts
are a great way for active families to bond. F45 offers drop-in classes for $28. Anyone can book a session from 5:30 am to 6:30 pm with classes ranging from cardio to resistance strength training.
“My whole family works out at F45,” Agnew says. “My mom started going first, and she brought me along a couple of times, and I liked it. Then my dad started going, and now we like to do the 10 am Sunday class, where my brother, Max, joins in. It is a fun family
activity.”
3
Fun & Games. Looking for something more low-key? No need to get fancy. Sometimes, all you need is a yummy Pub Sub at Blue Jacket Park. Nothing short of an idyllic picnic spot, Blue Jacket offers great spaces for recreational activities as well as many shady spots under large oak trees. Under those spots, Agnew and friends, taking inspiration from the viral TikTok cake trend, enjoy Publix cakes in wine glasses with fresh fruit and chips — a perfect DIY activity.
“We brought a little picnic blanket, and had just ridden our bikes to Publix,” Agnew says.
“We put the glasses in the cake and ate it together. We took photos because the sun was setting, and it was super scenic and beautiful.”
These green spaces are not exclusively for picnics, though. Agnew’s younger brother, Max, 13, uses these fields to play different sports- from basketball to frisbee and even their own game:
David Vilallonga, DVM, MS, PhD, CVA
tennis baseball.
“We love to play tennis baseball (which is) playing baseball with a tennis ball,” he says. “We made it up since you can’t play full-on baseball here. The tennis ball makes it easier and more fun.”
4Chill & Sip. Too hot? Go enjoy a cool drink at Frosty Fox. There a variety of drinks
Mary Anne Holls Bowen, DVM
Elizabeth Carson, DVM, CVA
Sara Stevens, DVM
and ice cream, including the Thai milk tea, brown sugar latte and strawberry slush being local favorites. The minimalist décor, along with quiet low-fi, provides a studious setting for work or studying.
“I see teenagers coming in all the time with their friends, boyfriends, girlfriends and even parents,” Eva Chong, a team member at Frosty Fox, says.
“Everyone just likes Boba. … It is such a good place to study or hang out, too. It’s very calm and clean, and a good place to chill overall.”
From its centralized location to the various amenities, there is no better place for families and teens to gather than Baldwin Park. Whether you seek something lively or a more relaxing morning, there is always something here. Most of all, Baldwin is the best place to meet all the different people in the community.
“There’s such a mix of age groups around here, and you always meet someone new,” says local teen, Fynn Bortles. “With all the schools nearby and everyone hanging out in the town center, it’s a great spot for students to connect and have fun.”
So, whether you’re biking to Publix, sweating it out at F45 or sipping bubble tea with friends, Baldwin Park has something special waiting just outside your
BY STACEY FRYREAR
The following information is a glimpse of the ROA’s general updates for the month. A copy of the official May 27, 2025, Regular Meeting Minutes can be obtained on the Community Network, BaldwinParkNetwork.com.
n It was discussed Ms. Eggleton work with Sentry to determine which banks have the best money market rates and transfer the remaining transfer fee monies in Division 1 and Division 2 to those banks.
n It was discussed Mr. Agranoff will verify Hotwire’s “live date starting one year free” against the contract specifications. According to Hotwire, the one-year free will start June 1, 2025.
n Approved Mr. Ford to look at a six- to 12-month period for potential projects using the transfer fees and to bring back as a packet to review in six months.
n Mr. Ford updated the board on the Legal RFP process. He, Mr. Slavens and Mr. Agranoff have completed their scoring. The top three candidates will be given two weeks’ notice of the Closed Board Meeting, where the board will interview them. This meeting will be closed as current legal matters will be discussed. Mr. Slavens, Mr. Agranoff and Mr. Ford will have a call before the interviewing process begins.
n Approved the proposal from Tropitone for the new dining (100) and lounge chair (166) slings for all pools, as well as 15 umbrella bases.
n The board discussed allowing the city of Orlando to use the Enders Facility Center Gathering Room for a polling place. The board asked SMI to contact the city to determine the number of precincts involved and what it will encompass.
n Approved the proposal from CondoVoter for the E-Voting in 2025.
n Approved the cost for Tim Webber Events and SMI for the Kickoff to Football Season Ultimate Tailgate Block Party at Enders Park on Sept. 5.
n Approved the BrightView proposal to repair the Bermuda at Baskin Mews.
n Approved paying the estimated taxes on the additional retail door fees in one payment.
1. The May carpet cleaning at Enders and Grace Hopper was completed.
2. SMI Community Relations Coordinator sent the following notices via Constant Contact to owners:
a. Hotwire reminder to non-responders on scheduling a consultation and office hours
b. Hotwire: The following was sent to all owners via Constant Contact:
The board has been informed that, in some cases, Hotwire has had to make changes to the original installation plan in order to provide fiber optic service in certain homes. In a few situations, this has included cutting into drywall to run the new fiber line. This does not happen in every home, as each layout is different.
It’s hard to predict which home may be affected, because it depends on how the current conduit and wiring were installed. For example, some conduit lines end partway through the wall, and in other cases, the existing wiring has been stapled in place. These issues prevent new lines from being run through the original conduit.
When drywall cutting is necessary, Hotwire will cover the areas they worked on to make sure the wall is properly sealed again. Thank you for your patience. The monthly savings provided to
you through the ROA’s contract with Hotwire, not to mention the speed of the fiberoptic line, will be a great benefit in the future. In addition, Hotwire will automatically remove your Spectrum equipment so the Wi-Fi signals don’t interfere with each other, especially if the name is being replicated. But if you ask for the Spectrum equipment not to be touched, then Hotwire should follow that direction. Possible modifications to homes during install reminder to notice of overnight maintenance on voice lines.
c. Townhome 0wners: The following was sent to all townhome owners via Constant Contact:
To all townhome owners:
Important Information About Townhomes and Condominiums in Baldwin Park Baldwin Park includes different types of housing, such as townhomes and condominiums. While single-family homes are easy to recognize, townhomes and condos can look very similar. The attached Townhomes vs. Condominiums document helps explain the differences in ownership and why they are often managed differently.
For more detailed information, please visit www.baldwinparknetwork.com/residenthome/ associationinformation/residentialownersassociation and look under section 2: ROA Declaration, Supplements, Exhibits & Resolutions. There, you will find Exhibits G (all townhomes except Live/Work) and H (Live/ Work), which explain the association’s maintenance responsibilities and the type of insurance townhome owners need. They are also attached.
Some homeowners have purchased the wrong type of insurance and are paying more than necessary. Be sure to check your policy, as you should have an HO-6 Policy. Making a change could help you save money.
The tree-lined streets of Baldwin Park offer shady canopies for residents to enjoy the outdoors and provide homes for amazing animals like songbirds, squirrels and even bats.
Bats provide great pest control. They are protected year-round from harm and cannot be evicted from buildings until after the end of the annual bat maternity season, between April 15 and Aug. 15.
Now is the time to evaluate your home for potential wildlife entry points and make necessary repairs.
The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission provided us with a comprehensive video addressing “How to Remove Bats from Buildings.” You can access it by visiting youtube. com/watch?v=IbaKnvc8sZA.
3. Progress meetings and site visits with SMI Community Director Tempest Roofing for the Enders roof replacement project were held on April 21, 22, 29 and May 6, 2025.
4. The SMI Community Director revised the Financial Audit Postcard to include the following. The language was sent to SMI Mailing Services, and the proof was approved. The 2024 Audit Report was uploaded to the Baldwin Park Network.
In accordance with Florida Statutes, this is to advise that a copy of the Association’s 2024 year-end financial report (CPA prepared) is available to you, as a property owner. If you would like a copy of the report mailed to you, please put your request in writing, at the address listed on the reserve side of this postcard, or e-mail communitycare@sentrymgt.com. Please include the name of your association and your full name in your written request or complete and return this notice. The report will be mailed to the address we have on record or emailed if you provide your email address below. In addition, you can find a copy of the financial report by going to baldwinparknetwork.com/resident home/association information/ residential owners association/ audit reports.
5. Browns Fitness made repairs to the Enders Gym free weight bench.
6. SMI Community Director emailed the PIP scope of work and pictures for Enders and Union Park playgrounds to Innovative Sport Surfacing and Pro Playgrounds Surfacing to obtain replacement quotes. Quotes were received and were double and triple the cost of the original Rep Services prices. The president of the association signed the quotes from Rep Services, and that work is being scheduled.
7. Certified Pool Pros replaced broken skimmer covers at the Grace Hopper pool.
8. DRS straightened the Grace Hopper pool gate posts.
9. Spies Pools repaired the backwash shut-off valve at Enders’ pool.
10. Massey Services baited for ants in the facility centers.
11. SMI emailed the Ad Hoc Finance group a welcome message and an outline of the board’s expectations and working parameters for the group.
12. SMI Community Director and SMI TSAC Community Association Manager met with Reserve Advisors to discuss the ROA 2026 Full Site Inspection Reserve Study. Reserve Advisors plans to send the study to SMI by July 15, 2025.
13. BrightView contacted the City Streets and Drains Department as there is an area of sod in the right of way near the sidewalk in Corrine Commons that keeps opening up after filling it with dirt. It is adjacent to a manhole cover, and we believe it is related to it. Streets and Drains completed a site visit and have done some repairs. We will continue to monitor the situation.
14. Changes made to the Baldwin Park Network:
Sign up for access form: Fields added to indicate Renter, Homeowner, and Y/N to a Business owner when a new user requests access. (Neighborhood is assigned by admin on approval.)
User manager: There were several bugs in editing and saving users that have been corrected: admin permissions being inadvertently changed, updated info wasn’t being saved properly and updating email preferences.
Bug with a user resetting their own Password – has been corrected.
Reporting a business closed: When looking at a listing in the Business Directory, this link was not working but has been corrected.
Renters having access suspended at the end of their lease: When you approve a renter, you can set their lease expiration, and their access will turn off at that date.
15. BrightView installed jasmine at Grace Hopper at no cost to the association, where an irrigation repair was made.
16. The SMI Community Director had a conversation with Mr. Clark regarding Gables potentially joining the association and contributing to the Division 2 Recreational Budget. Mr. Clark expressed he was not interested in subjecting the property to the Recreation Declaration or in paying assessments to BP ROA. However, he inquired whether the association might consider providing a limited number of pool vouchers for some of their tenants. It was explained that such a decision falls under the board’s purview and that he would have the opportunity to bring this request to their attention during his meeting with the board in May. Additionally, Gables has expressed interest in participating in some of the ROA events to engage with the community. They are hoping to distribute brochures and introduce themselves during these gatherings. The SMI Community Relations Coordinator advised it would be most appropriate for Gables to take part in larger events, particularly those where they could also serve as sponsors. Participation in the First Friday events, organized by a third party in the Village Center, was also suggested as a potential opportunity for community interaction.
17. See the maintenance checklist for further completed items.
1. SMI Community Director and Board Director Greg Ford met with Best Buy to go over HYBRID options at Grace Hopper. We are currently waiting on a proposal.
Continued on page 22
BY MELISSA PARKER
The following information is a glimpse of the business that the Townhome Service Area Committee addressed in the April 17, 2025, meeting. A complete copy of the official minutes can be obtained on the Community Network.
n The TSAC recommended the ROA board approve inviting the lowest bidder for the 2026-2028 TSAC Landscape Maintenance Contract to the June 17, 2025, TSAC meeting for an interview.
n The TSAC recommended the ROA board appoint Stuart Tinkler to the at-large seat on the TSAC.
n Please remember to report any landscape, building or irrigation issues on Baldwin Park Solutions. Reporting items on Baldwin Park Solutions allows residents to share photos of the reported area(s) and receive real-time updates from management staff on corrective measures being taken. Baldwin Park Solutions can be accessed on the Baldwin Park Network. If you have experienced an issue with any of the roof replacement projects, please email Community Association Manager Melissa Parker directly for assistance.
n The Cambridge Service Area. All 26 buildings have been replaced. 3MG Roofing will be completing the post project on nine out of the 26 buildings within the service area. The project currently is working off Lower Union Road and will move to Baldwin Park Street once this area is completed. The project is delayed while the roofing company works with the structural engineer on a couple of unforeseen conditions that were located when the area was exposed for replacement. The project was anticipated to resume the week of June, 2025.
n City Homes No. 1. All buildings are receiving roof replacements and new gutters. The association has a contract with Tempest Roofing. Tempest Roofing has completed nine buildings out of the 25 to be replaced. The roof-replacement project is currently located off Chatfield Place. Following the completion of Chatfield Place, the project will move to Prospect Avenue. Prospect Avenue is the final phase of the City Homes No. 1 roof-replacement project. Residents will receive a notice prior to construction beginning on their building. Residents have been encouraged to provide access to Tempest Roofing for interior inspections to be conducted.
n Issa 22 Phase 3 Roof Replacements. The roofing contract has been signed by both parties. This project will begin following the completion of Issa 28 Phase 3 replacements.
n Issa 28 Phase 3 Roof Replacements. The roof-replacement project is currently working off Meeting Place and Twinview Lane. Once both of these areas have been completed, then the project will relocate to Osprey Ave. G&A Certified Roofing North believed it will begin at 2245 Osprey Ave. the week of June 23, 2025 (weather pending). A notice will be sent to the community once the date is closer to confirm the start date for Osprey Avenue. Osprey Avenue is the final street to receive roof replacements within the Issa 28 project.
n Live/Work Phase 2 Roof Replacement Project. This roof-replacement project has received bids, and the committee is reviewing those documents.
n City Homes No. 2 Roof Replacement Project. The roofing contract has been signed by both parties. This project will begin after the Mattamy project is off the ground and stable.
n Mattamy Phase 1 Roof Replacement Project. 3MG Roofing has started the roof-replacement project at 2007-2031 Meeting Place. 2039-2063 Meeting Place has been noticed that replacements began the week of June 9, 2025. Meeting Place will be completed first prior to moving to 2069-2085 Coulson Alley.
n DRS Inc. is currently providing annual preventative maintenance in the Issa 22 service areas. Mattamy service area will be next to receive maintenance following the completion of Issa 22. Notices will be placed on the front doors of townhomes prior to maintenance beginning to inform residents of the upcoming service. You can find a copy of the 2025 maintenance schedule by visiting The Baldwin Park Network.
n BrightView has continued to make multiple irrigation repairs throughout the townhome service areas. There have been many lines breaking because of large tree roots. Irrigation controllers are also being replaced because of old age and they are no longer functioning. Any plants that have suffered from a lack of irrigation will be removed and replaced if they do not recover. BrightView also corrects any irrigation following the installation/ replacement of plant material. BrightView is also working directly with HotWire on any irrigation breaks that occur because of the fiber optic project. BrightView also walks the buildings receiving roof replacements, with the roofing contractor, following a roof’s completion. Roofing contractors are responsible for any damaged landscaping during roof-replacement projects.
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2. SMI Community Relations Coordinator asked Hotwire to provide a list of addresses and pictures of the boxes located on the townhomes. Hotwire is not providing. At no charge to the association, DRS is currently inspecting all townhomes to provide documentation and pictures of these areas.
3. Browns Fitness ordered new pads for free weights at Grace Hopper and Enders. They were to be installed during the April PM visit. The wrong pads were delivered and have been reordered.
4. Proposals for pool equipment at Grace Hopper and Enders. Still working on obtaining another proposal.
5. DRS will be repairing some broken wood on the Enders dumpster enclosure.
6. DRS will be replacing the weather stripping on the Enders garage door.
7. SMI Community Director and TSAC Community Manager are compiling the 2026 Reserve Study information needed by the Reserve Advisors.
8. SMI is down two maintenance technicians. All facility centers are being covered.
9. SMI Community Director is working on obtaining three proposals for seven-day-a-week nightly cleaning of the Grace Hopper Facility Center and pool house; pressure washing at Grace Hopper Facility and pool deck; cleaning of pool furniture; seven-daya-week porter service for 23 ROA Parks/Mews; and drywall repairs and painting. SMI has received a couple of proposals but expected the final proposals by June 15.
10. SMI Community Director requested SMI Corporate complete a fraud risk analysis per the 2024 Financial Audit recommendations. SMI’s fraud preventions steps are included in the May packet.
11. Split Unit AC installation at Enders Garage.
BY BILL PATTERSON
Independence Day is upon us! Get all your Red, White and Blue decorations and treats by shopping local in the Baldwin Park Village Center shops and restaurants.
n Parking Lot Milling. Three parking lots in the Village Center are scheduled to be milled and repaved. This project will start once the permits get approved with the city, which we are hopeful will be in June. The three parking lots include the large one and two small ones that fall between New Broad Street, Meeting Place, Lake Baldwin Lane and Common Way Road. This project will leave sections of the parking lots unusable for several days while the work is being completed and will therefore be done in stages to minimize parking issues. Please keep a lookout for future notices in the weekly eBlasts. All owners and residents affected also will be noticed either through email, door delivery or from their property manager.
n Landscaping. Several projects around the parking lots are being planned over the upcoming months. This will give a fresh look to the parking lots.
n ARC. An architectural review is required for all exterior — and some interior — changes, including roof replacement, painting, signs and landscaping changes. For the city to approve permits, the Commercial Owners Association must sign off on the project. All corresponding applications can be located on the Baldwin Park Network under Commercial Owners Association and Commercial Architectural Review Committee. For questions and application submission, please feel free to email Bill at BPatterson@ BaldwinParkPOA.com.
n Towing. All nine parking lots in the Village Center are privately owned by the Commercial Association.
The owners have adopted rules and regulations for these parking lots. Any vehicle not following the rules is subject to towing at the owner’s expense. This includes: out of date tags/stickers, inoperable vehicles, double-parking and abandoned vehicles. The parking lots are for residents and guests of the apartments and employees and customers of the commercial businesses.
n Trash Talk. The dumpsters in the commercial lots are for use of commercial tenants and apartment residents. Apartment residents are encouraged to throw their trash all the way down the chute on the side. When the door is closed, it will compact. Commercial tenants are not to use the trash chute for discarding trash. Instead, they are to go inside the enclosure and throw directly in the dumpster. Apartment residents are welcome to do this as well, if the chute is blocked. Please do not leave trash bags in front of or around the dumpster; this attracts bugs and rodents. If the dumpster is not working, please go to one of the other parking lot dumpsters and contact the office so OUC can be notified for repairs.
n Bulk Pick-up. The dumpsters in the commercial lots are meant for trash bags and small items only. For all large items, please use OUC bulk pick-up. Stuffing these items in the dumpster or leaving them causes multiple issues, including dumpster break down and rodents. Visit orlando.gov/Trash-Recycling for more information and to schedule future pick-ups.
n Baldwin Park Solutions. Commercial owners, tenants and managers can submit work requests through our new Baldwin Park Solutions system. It is located on the Baldwin Park Network. Simply click “Resident Home” at the top right, and you will find the link in the middle of the page. If you do not have a Baldwin Park Network account, you can request one from that page, as well. Visit baldwinparknetwork.com to start.
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