Professional Documents
Culture Documents
CONDOMINIUM ASSOCIATION
June 2018
June 2018
Next Board Meeting
Monday, June 18, 2018
at 7:00 p.m.
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Election Results
Page 23
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Highland Lakes
Management Section
Highland Lakes Board of Directors
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HIGHLAND LAKES CONDOMINIUM ASSOCIATION DIRECTORY
20301 Silver Spring Drive, Northville, MI 48167
Phone: 248-349-4006 E-mail: clubhouse@hlca.us
Fax: 248-349-8821 Web: www.HLCA.us
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Guy Balok, President................... 734-667-3507 Sandy Nolan, Director................. 248-349-3587
Michelle Todorov, Vice President...248-380-1611 Michael Baynes, Director..............248-826-9435
Ann Creviston, Treasurer..............248-894-4961 Kathy Baldwin, Director.............. 248-974-6688
Margaret Zonca, Secretary.......... 248-348-5283
PERSONNEL
Joe Poma........................................Property Manager Guinevere Eatmon........Senior Receptionist (Notary)
Emily Lutzenkirchen.....Publications & Records Assistant Alexis Jackson......................................Receptionist
Sharon Englund.......................................Bookkeeper Terry Duke............................................Receptionist
COMMITTEE INFORMATION
COMMITTEE CHAIRPERSON PHONE BOARD LIAISON
Clubhouse Barb Balok 734-667-3507 Sandy Nolan, Michael Baynes, Kathy Baldwin,
& Ann Creviston
Court Liaison Joel Lutz 248-349-6782 Peggy Zonca, Michael Baynes, & Ann Creviston
Community Social Brad Todorov 248-380-1611 Guy Balok, Kathy Baldwin, Sandy Nolan, &
Michelle Todorov
Grounds Joel Lutz 248-349-6782 Guy Balok, Sandy Nolan, Peggy Zonca, &
Michael Baynes
Ecology Cathy Watkins 248-765-2327 Michael Baynes, Peggy Zonca, Michelle Todorov,
& Guy Balok
Pool Rosemary Campion 248-349-8227 Guy Balok, Peggy Zonca, & Sandy Nolan
Cheryl Huizing 248-231-7603
RV Hugh Battley 248-349-4841 Michelle Todorov
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
After Hours Emergency ...................................................................................................................248-349-4006
Northville Township Police-Non-Emergency .................................................................................248-349-9400
Northville Township Fire Department ..........................................................................................248-348-5807
Northville Township Police and Fire Emergency ........................................................................................... 911
After Hours Maintenance Emergency ..........................................................................................248-349-4006
Assessment/Billing Inquiries .....................................................................................................248-349-4006
Consumers Power Company .......................................................................................................800-477-5050
DTE-Electric Company ...............................................................................................................800-477-4747
Hazardous Waste Information .....................................................................................................734-326-3936
HLCA WOW! Account Rep (Bob Sivori) ........................................................................................248-808-9872
WOW! Sales & Support .............................................................................................................1-866-496-9669
HLCA AT&T Account Rep (Denise Smith) .....................................................................................810-265-4946
AT&T Sales & Support (Phone or U-Verse) ..................................................................................800-288-3466
HLCA Comcast Account Rep (Erin Timmermann)..............................................erin_timmermann@comcast.com
Web site ......................................................................................................................................www.HLCA.us
Association Facebook Page ..............................................................................................facebook.com/hlca.mi
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Highland Lakes
Herald
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SUPPORT OUR ADVERTISERS
AUTO REPAIR HOME REPAIR & HANDYMAN SERVICES
PLUMBING
REAL ESTATE
HEATING & COOLING
Megan Atkinson........................................36
R & H Glazing........................................... 41
https://www.facebook.com/hlca.mi
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HIGHLAND LAKES CONDOMINIUM ASSOCIATION
BOARD OF DIRECTORS ANNUAL MEETING MINUTES - May 21, 2018
The forty-third annual meeting of the Board of Directors and Membership of Highland Lakes Condominium
Association was held at the principal office of the Association in the Township of Northville, State of Michigan, on the
21st day of May 2018, in accordance with the By-Laws of the Association. President Guy Balok called the meeting to
order at 7:04 p.m.
Attendance
The following Directors were present: Kathy Baldwin, Michelle Todorov, Peggy Zonca, Sandy Nolan, Ann Creviston,
and Guy Balok. Kathleen Connor was excused. Also present were Joe Poma, Property Manager, and Emily Lutzenkirchen,
Publications & Records Assistant. Approximately 20 Co-Owners also attended.
Election Results
Rosemary Campion announced the Election results thanking all Election Committee members for assisting in
counting the ballots and for their hard work: Elaine Anderson, Agnes Valley, and Mary Kay Wimsatt.
Rosemary reported there were a total of 223 correct ballots counted, representing 33.9% of the co-owners
entitled to vote. See the Election results on page 23 of the June Herald. Rosemary notified the Board that the
ballots will be destroyed in 30 days.
Board members went into closed session to elect The following Committee Board Liaisons were elected:
officers and assign Committee Liaisons.
Clubhouse...................Sandy Nolan, Ann Creviston, Kathy Baldwin,
The following Officers were elected: Michael Baynes
Court Liaison .............Peggy Zonca, Ann Creviston, Michael Baynes
President – Guy Balok Engineering................Guy Balok, Kathy Baldwin
Vice President – Michelle Todorov Finance.......................Ann Creviston, Guy Balok
Secretary – Peggy Zonca
Grounds.......................Kathleen Connor, Peggy Zonca
Treasurer – Ann Creviston
Director - Kathy Baldwin Ecology.......................Michelle Todorov, Guy Balok, Michael Baynes,
Peggy Zonca
Director - Sandy Nolan
Director - Michael Baynes Pool.............................Guy Balok, Peggy Zonca, Sandy Nolan
RV...............................Michelle Todorov
Tennis.........................Michelle Todorov
E.E.D.C......................Ann Creviston, Peggy Zonca, Kathy Baldwin
Community Social......Kathy Baldwin, Sandy Nolan, Michelle Todorov, Guy Balok
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President Guy Balok called the May 21, 2018 public session of the Board of Directors to order at 7:46 p.m.
Board Action: Motion by Michelle Todorov, support by Board Action: Motion by Peggy Zonca, support by Ann
Sandy Nolan, to approve the Court Liaison Committee report Creviston, to approve the Grounds Committee report of
of May 3, 2018. All in favor. Motion passed. Clubhouse May 14, 2018, and the recommendation to approve item #7
(unit 331) and deny item #5 (unit 674). All in favor. Motion
Clubhouse Committee Report page 12 passed.
Board Action: Motion by Ann Creviston, support by Sandy Management Report: pages 9-10
Nolan, to approve the Clubhouse Committee report, of May
7, 2018. All in favor. Motion passed. Joe Poma reported.
Engineering Committee Report page 13 Board Action: Motion by Kathy Baldwin, Peggy Zonca, to
adjourn the meeting. All in favor. Motion passed.
Discussion: There was a discussion about putting up
divider walls in garages. Since the walls must be anchored The Meeting adjourned at 8:03 p.m.
to common ground the resident needs to fill out a major
alteration-other packet to be approved by the Committee
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MANAGEMENT REPORT
TO: Board of Directors, Co-Owners RE: Property Manager’s Report
FROM: Joe Poma, Property Manager DATE: May 21, 2018
1. Porch Brick Repair: The office has received many calls from residents wanting to repair / tuck-point the brickwork
on their porches. The Association does not recommend one contractor over another, but will mention those that have
done work previously on the site and the co-owners may contract with them directly. I was re-assured by R.A.R.
Construction Services that they are still accepting new work and they may be reached at (248) 444-6105. This com-
pany has repaired dozens of porches throughout the community including the re-setting of brickwork and new concrete
porch slabs. If they are unavailable, please contact the office and I can make further suggestions.
2. Moving Skunk Traps: As you know, our open trash corrals and common areas are attracting skunks, possum and
other critters that require the use of cage traps. This service is provided by Alpha & Omega and involves setting a cage
trap with food bait in the location with the greatest activity. Some co-owners have complained that the traps are being
disturbed, moved or knocked over. We know it’s not the animals because the food container is gone too and very of-
ten, the trap is relocated. Our contractor has had a great deal of success removing these animals from the property, but
please do not disturb the traps in any way. If you happen to see an animal in the trap, call the office and the cage will
be removed on that day. Rather than commandeering the trap for your own use, you can always call the office and we
will have one delivered to your location as necessary.
3. Feeding Animals: Along the same lines as written above, the Board and Management have previously discussed the
issue of animal feeding. It came about a few years ago when we were talking about bird feeders on patios. Always
remember that what you do may affect your neighbor, and the placement of multiple feeders may attract the desired
birds, it also attracts mice, chipmunks, squirrels and other unwanted animals. The birds also tend to leave droppings
all over your neighbor’s patio table, umbrella and pave stones when coming or going. For this reason, complaints are
handled on a case by case basis, but a reasonable standard is used for determining what is permissible. Most people
are fine with one bird feeder, but when you have three, you are now crossing over into the same policies as lawn
ornamentation and things can get excessive. Under no circumstances should residents be feeding ducks or geese near
their patios. The geese are unwanted pests and destroy the lawn behind the unit or wherever they graze. Other stray
animals like cats or rodents should likewise not be fed because the property will be overrun.
4. Pool Renovations: The renovations of the pools are complete. The large pool has a new marcite surface, following
removal of several layers of old material applied over the years. The baby pool has new blue tile, new marcite with a
pebblecoat surface and new coping tile. Both pools have new automatic chlorine feeders and the baby pool has a new
computer that regulates the chemicals automatically. We’ve been doing work to the pools and equipment room steadi-
ly over the last few years and with our recent $85,000 renovation, I’m confident in saying that everything is basically
brand new and will compliment our clubhouse renovation project further.
5. Additional Maintenance Staffing: The problems associated with grass trimming and edging should be a thing of
the past now that we have hired an additional three members to assist our Grounds and Lawn Crew, thereby bringing
us up to full staff. You will notice that this year, the trimmers are following right behind the mowing equipment and
extensive training was implemented to ensure that the more remote areas of the property or those along fencelines and
landscaping between the buildings were not overlooked. Highland Lakes has over 160 acres, so if you happen to see
an area that you think was missed, please let us know.
6. Asphalt & Concrete Project: We are pleased to announce that we have completed the asphalt and concrete work
for another 9 courtyards and have replaced main sidewalks in others that had trip hazards. Details will follow as to
courtyards scheduled to be worked on for next year. Please be patient with our contractors, because although we are
substantially finished, my guess is that small concrete projects will continue through the season and we pinpoint prob-
lem areas relating to safety or sinking catch basins.
7. Clubhouse Renovations: The Board has voted to renovate the two restrooms across from the reception area at the
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MANAGEMENT REPORT
TO: Board of Directors, Co-Owners RE: Property Manager’s Report
FROM: Joe Poma, Property Manager DATE: May 21, 2018
clubhouse as part of the Phase #2 renovation project. It was decided to do these separately and earlier because Phase
#3 includes the entire front offices, main lounge and loft library. Since we have clubhouse rentals and wintertime
committee functions toward the end of the year, they decided it would be more beneficial if the space was not taken of-
fline completely during that time. As we work on the bathrooms in the clubhouse, I will remind residents, patrons and
guests (especially those renting the space for parties) that there are still locker rooms in the back hallway that may be
used for larger groups, each containing several stalls, sinks, etc.
8. Kathleen Connor: There simply isn’t enough space in a management report to say goodbye to a Board member that
has served Highland Lakes continuously since the 1980’s, let alone come close to talking about all of the achieve-
ments, time invested, dedication and selfless acts on your behalf all of these years. During my time here alone, there
were meetings that lasted until 2am, countless committee meetings, social functions and community outreach that she
was a part of, most of which go un-noticed, but are nevertheless done because she is a resident of the community that
she supported, and she did so for free; for over 30 years. Kathleen never quit the Board. She couldn’t run this year
due to health issues and her time in office lapsed; she simply couldn’t do it anymore. Very often the dissenting opinion
on certain votes or projects, she spoke her mind freely and regardless of whose side you were on, she was compelled
to “represent” whether it was a minority opinion or not. She spent her career in the insurance industry, became a Vice
President of Marsh USA and streamlined the company’s process through innovation at a time when companies were
transitioning from pen & pencil to the computer age. She took her knowledge from her career and put it to use for the
benefit of Highland Lakes by joining the Insurance Committee and verifying that we had the appropriate coverages
for a site of this size. When she wasn’t attending meetings or serving food from our kitchen during pool events, she
was at the clubhouse playing cards with her friends, talking with staff members and handing out cookies to children.
Kathleen is an original resident of Highland Lakes and has lived on Leidel Court since 1972.
The Board meetings are on the 3rd Monday of every month, the committees meet once per month as well.
To say anything further about her service to your Association would go against the fact that it was done quietly and
without embellishment; that of course had nothing to do with Highland Lakes and after speaking with her on countless
occasions, I’m confident it came straight from her father. It should probably remain that way to memorialize how she
conducted herself. Thank you Kathleen.
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HIGHLAND LAKES COMMITTEE REPORT
COMMITTEE: Court Liaison Committee MEETING DATE: May 3, 2018
MEMBERS PRESENT: Dianne Hartman GUESTS PRESENT:
Joel Lutz, Chairperson Stan Savitskie Peggy Zonca, Board Liaison
Diane Pittaway, Co-Chair Sharon Smith Joe Poma, Property Manager
Barbara Adams, Secretary Tom Werner Guy Balok, Board President
Barbara Evans Ann Creviston, Board Treasurer
Barb Balok Sandy Nolan, Board Liaison
Kathy Baldwin, Director
Richard Wilson
SUBJECTS DISCUSSED:
1. Discussion regarding recycling was brought up due to the change in company now responsible for managing it. We presently
now have Waste Management removing the recycling material.
2. There could be changes coming eventually in regards to trash disposal but not real soon.
4. There was also a question regarding the potholes. Joe responded that he was hiring a company that has the materials and
equipment that will produce longer lasting pothole repairs than the current method that our in-house crew uses.
5. It was also mentioned that the new automatic phone call-out system has been very successful.
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HIGHLAND LAKES COMMITTEE REPORT
COMMITTEE: Clubhouse Committee MEETING DATE: May 7, 2018
MEMBERS PRESENT: Mike Baynes GUESTS PRESENT:
Barbara Balok, Chairperson Betty Parzych Guy Balok, Board President
Ilio Alessandri Ray Parzych Ann Creviston, Board Liaison
Judith Alessandri Kathy Baldwin, Board Liaison
Rosemary Campion Peggy Zonca, Board
Elaine Anderson Rob Berlin
Richard Wilson
Yvonne Wilson
SUBJECTS DISCUSSED:
1. Renovation Update. Project designer (Rob Berlin) brought color samples to choose from for both Men’s and Women’s
bathroom walls. Committee voted (unanimously) on a green for the Women’s and a beige for the Men’s. Rob also showed
the group the tile sample for both bathrooms along with bathroom partition colors for both.
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HIGHLAND LAKES COMMITTEE REPORT
COMMITTEE: Engineering Committee MEETING DATE: May 16, 2018
MEMBERS PRESENT: GUESTS PRESENT:
Thomas A. Werner Randy Blaylock Guy Balok, Board Liaison
Stan Savitskie Chris Hatcher
Kim Hudson
Lorraine Scully
Dave Burfoot
1 Unit 37 (8) Windows 7 Unit 378 Entry Door ED-9 & SL-1, Storm Door SD-2
Installation by: Wallside Windows Installation by: Home Depot
Meets HLCA Requirements Meets HLCA Requirements
3 Unit 264 Entry Door ED-1, Storm Door SD-1 9 Unit 414 Doorwall PD-1
Installation by: Home Depot Installation by: Home Depot
Meets HLCA Requirements Meets HLCA Requirements
5 Unit 351 Entry Door ED-1 & SL-3 11 Unit 608 Add Side Window
Installation by: Home Depot Installation by: Homeowner
Meets HLCA Requirements Meets HLCA Requirements
Notes: Remove from the table and accept it as written,
6 Unit 353 (5) Windows per Engineering Committee
Installation by: Wallside Windows
Meets HLCA Requirements 12 Unit 643 Patio
Installation by: J.D. Stoneworks & Landscape LLC
Meets HLCA Requirements
RECOMMENDATIONS TO THE BOARD: To approve modifications #1-10, 12 & 13. Remove #11 from table and
approve as written.
NEXT MEETING: Wednesday, June 13, 2018 at 7:00 p.m.
Submitted by Tom Werner
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HIGHLAND LAKES COMMITTEE REPORT
COMMITTEE: Ecology Committee MEETING DATE: May 8, 2018
MEMBERS PRESENT: GUESTS PRESENT:
Cathy Watkins, Chairperson Kristine Fenton Joe Poma, Property Manager
Liz Gannon, Co-Chair Guy Balok, Board Liaison
Diane Pittaway Michelle Todorov, Board Liaison
Judy Nakdimen
Richard Wright
Mike Baynes
Sharon Smith
SUBJECTS DISCUSSED:
1. Discussion focused on woods project for the upcoming summer.
4. Richard Wright offered to help remove buckthorn from the woods using his chain saw. Joe thought that would be a liability
and will check with the insurance company.
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HIGHLAND LAKES COMMITTEE REPORT
COMMITTEE: Pool Committee MEETING DATE: May 8, 2018
MEMBERS PRESENT: GUESTS PRESENT:
Rosemary Campion, Co-Chair Joe Poma, Property Manager
Cheryl Huizing, Co-Chair Guy Balok, Board Liaison
Elaine Anderson Sandy Nolan, Board Liaison
Barb Balok Eric Redman, Head Lifeguard
Mary Gonzales
Yvonne Wilson
SUBJECTS DISCUSSED:
1. Pools: The layers of marcite were removed from the large pool. A pebble finish was installed on the bottom of the baby pool.
Both pools have been filled with water. New equipment is being installed. Discussion on the replacement of the colored pool
light with a LED clear one involves rewiring. Joe will obtain a quote on cost. The pool will open for the season on May 25th
at noon.
2. Lifeguards: Joe hired eight lifeguards so far. He may hire as many as ten.
3. Pool Opening Party: The party will be May 27th and is a potluck event. Bring a dish to share to the clubhouse by 4 p.m. Food
will be served 4:30 - 5:30 p.m.
4. Hot Dog Daze: This will take place June 16th, noon - 2 p.m., with a Detroit Tigers theme.
5. The lifeguards manual/pool regulations were discussed and some issues clarified.
6. The Adult Karaoke Party and late night swim will be July 28th. Details will be discussed at the next meeting.
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HIGHLAND LAKES COMMITTEE REPORT
COMMITTEE: Grounds Committee MEETING DATE: May 14, 2018
MEMBERS PRESENT: GUESTS PRESENT:
Joel Lutz, Chairperson Peggy Zonca, Board Liaison
Cathy Watkins, Co-Chair Guy Balok, Board President
Barb Balok Kathy Baldwin, Board
Judy Nakdimen Tina Genitti
Rosemary Campion Liz Sheridan
Michael Baynes
SUBJECTS DISCUSSED:
1. Except for accidentally pulled plants on the north edge of the Highland House sign and two of the dwarf burning bushes in
the landscape area on the west side of the 8 Mile entrance, our perennials faired the winter well.
2. Rosemary C. and Judy N. identified what they plan on planting around the Highland House Sign and adding to the Carmen’s
Corner area. Plan on having ever thing in the ground by June.
3. Planter boxes on either side of pool entrance from kitchen area of clubhouse to be planted by the Pool Committee.
4. Valiant Court planting island plan agreed to be implemented and managed by a court resident.
5. Unit 674 request to plant a tree (Red Maple) at back fence not recommended. Area behind fence is traversed by gas, electric
and sewage lines. Desire to block late day sun may be accomplished with something like a line of columnar arbor vitae along
fence that doesn't have as much of a root spread.
6. Unit 693 submitted a shrub removal request to late for last year's pull. Will be included in this year's pull.
7. Unit 331 submitted request to plant a dwarf tulip tree in their front commons area. There are no utilities in the area and
mature growth will not reach sidewalks or building around site.
9. Another tree removal request to improve co-owner's view. Maybe extenuating circumstance to some of this request. Will
look further into issue.
RECOMMENDATIONS TO THE BOARD: Recommend approval of item #7 (unit 331) and deny #5 (unit 674).
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President’s Report
The purpose of the annual meeting is to announce the results of our Election for the Board of Directors
and provide information concerning the state of the Association. It is my privilege to give you an
overview of our community.
I’d like to start out with thanking the Board for the opportunity to serve as the Board’s President, it has
been my honor to serve with these dedicated people.
It is with a great deal of pride and confidence that, on behalf of the Board, I thank and congratulate our
staff for their commitment during the past year. Our Maintenance Department works hard year round. I
think all would agree that, the winter with its extended cold period, had its challenges, our staff had to
overcome Holiday and weekend storms and now they are beginning the spring and summer chores. Our
paving project is well underway with 4 years remaining in the initial project and the Clubhouse
Renovations are coming along. Thank you, Jason and the entire maintenance staff for all you do.
• Our Maintenance staff received, and completed 875 work orders since last May. There are
currently 187 open work orders proving that this is no simple task.
• The lawn crew and grounds crew have taken great strides in maintaining the property while
having to deal with periodic staff shortages. Jason, our Maintenance Supervisor, is hands-on and
instrumental in accomplishing our shrub trimming program, while Darin, our Lawn Foreman, has
already edged the property and is working on the mowing, trimming and edging with his crew.
Of course, the Association could not operate efficiently without our administrative staff.
Thanks to Joe Poma, our Property Manager, for his continued efforts to maintain a financially stable
Association. His legal knowledge is a real asset and has facilitated the collection.
• Over the last year, Joe has filed 11 liens and 6 releases, most of which have yielded payment.
• During Joe’s tenure as Property Manager from April, 2009 to the present day, Highland Lakes
has had a positive year-end financial position for eight out of the nine years, leading to minimal
assessment increases.
• The assessment delinquency has dropped to its lowest point since the early 2000’s
• Joe has been successful in presiding over the asphalt and concrete program, hiring qualified
lifeguards, administrative and maintenance staff and implementing the pool renovation program.
• Joe researched and hand-picked the new automated calling service, coordinated the assembly of
all names into the resident database and successfully launched the program.
Additionally, Joe could not had done this without the knowledge and support of the Office Staff. We are
privileged to have such dedicated workers as Sharon our Bookkeeper, Emily, Records and Publications
Assistant, Guin our Lead Receptionist, and Alexis and Terry, Secretary Receptionists.
The following committees play an ongoing role in the quality of life in our community, in no specific
order: Clubhouse, Community Social, Court Liaison, Ecology, Engineering, Finance, Grounds, Herald,
and the Pool committees. It is evident that all committees work together for the common good. The RV
and Tennis Committees require less time, but are also important, as are our social groups such as the
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Women’s Club, Euchre and Pinochle groups, and crafters. Thanks to all of you who assist in projects and
activities and devote their time and expertise when needed. One of the factors that have made Highland
Lakes unique among condominium developments is our self-management and the participation of the Co-
Owners, which surely contributes to our quality of life and helps to control costs. Over the years we have
seen membership in our committees decline, and the Association faces a challenge to encourage new
members to discover the rewards of contributing to the activities in their community. We must remember
our community is 47 years old. If we intend to preserve our property values, we must get involved. The
Board of Directors has faced many difficult decisions in our efforts to maintain and improve our
community, many of which may had been impossible without the help of the committees. Our
infrastructure still remains a priority and we continue to focus on maintaining and updating our buildings,
roads, and common areas.
Thanks to Rosemary and Elaine for serving as Inspectors of the Election this year. In conclusion, I would
like to express my gratitude to the community and my fellow Board members. Without their dedication
and concern for the welfare of this Association, Highland Lakes would not be what it is. I thank all of you
for the privilege of serving on your Board and being a part of this Association.
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TREASURER’S REPORT
The Association has again received favorable annual audit results, as reported by our accounting
firm. The staff of the Association continues to provide outstanding service, oversight and
efficiency, bringing our residents the best possible value for their assessments. Sharon Englund
continues to use her years of experience and knowledge of the Association’s financial books to
make auditing of our community an easy task for our accountants.
At the end of the fiscal year, the actual reserve cash balance exceeded the projected reserve
balance by $23,574.65. The Board voted to show an additional operating surplus deposit equal
to this amount so that the total reserves stated would equal the total actual reserve cash available.
The remaining surplus for the year was then rolled over into long term, yielding an ending
balance of $788,486.14. The end result was a year-over-year or life to date surplus that was flat /
unchanged from the 2015-2016 fiscal year. The driving force for these rollovers continues to be
the asphalt, concrete and clubhouse renovation projects, as we stem the need for long term
deposit increases, by using the surplus brought about through sound financial management.
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Performance for the fiscal was affected by the following:
• Continuing trend of low bad-debt write-off and a recovering real estate market.
• AT & T marketing contract with monthly commission income.
• DTE Energy rebates from installation of common area LED lighting.
• Favorable administrative and security payroll with minimal overtime.
• Implementation of in-house shrub trimming bonus program incentive.
• Second full year of benefit of bulk natural gas contract and contractual negotiations
yielding low utility charges. Well-budgeted common element water expense category.
• Pool required filter sand replacement and lateral assemblies at the bottom of each filter.
• Extensive clubhouse water usage based on needed repairs to pool filters and baby pool.
• Higher vehicle expense, repairs to old van, skid-steer, 2008 & 2012 F350’s.
• New phragmites & invasive species removal contract, upgraded geese control, heavier
lake weed remediation.
• Heavier tree trimming throughout the property and following April, 2017 windstorm.
• Milder winter. Salt surplus.
• Shrub trimming was moved in-house, much to the satisfaction of the co-owners. This is
now saving the Association $25,000 per year.
• Extensive unit repair costs covering multiple foundation issues and basement leaks.
• No major insurance losses reported for 2016-2017.
• Lower healthcare costs.
• Prudent reserve fund spending.
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Performance year-to-date through March 31st was affected by the following:
The receivables balance or that owing to the Association by way of delinquent assessments and
other fees was $33,908 at the end of the fiscal on September 30, 2017.
The receivables balance as of March 31, 2018 is $38,964, adjusted to $28,094.83 when factoring
removal of one foreclosure unit. This continues to represent the lowest balance since the early
2000’s.
The Board has approved a Phase #2 asphalt and concrete program for 2018 at $600,000 which
includes both concrete and asphalt replacements in 9-10 courtyards. This project will continue
for another 4-6 years.
The Board approved an $86,000 renovation to the pools, enclosure and equipment. The marcite
in the large swimming pool was removed down to the original concrete surfaces requiring at
least five 20-yard dumpsters. A new marcite surface was applied to both the large pool and baby
pool, with a pebble-coat applied to the baby pool. New chlorinators for both pools and a new
computer system for the baby pool were installed.
The Board has approved a preliminary plan to hire outside consulting services for the proposed
aluminum siding project on the property. As with asphalt and concrete, this will likely be a 4-6
year project.
The balance of the long-term account as of September 30, 2017 was $665,031.00. The prior year
ended at $487,902.00.
The Association currently has a balance of $598,742 in Allied Demand Notes, which represents
an interest increase over the prior year of about $6000.
The life-to-date position of the Association or the “cumulative” financial report card, year-over-
year, places the Association at a surplus of $217,508. This remains unchanged from the prior
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Pollinators! We Can’t Live Without Them
Pollination is an essential ecological function.
Without pollinators, the human race and all of Earth’s
terrestrial ecosystems would not survive. Over 80 percent
of the world’s flowering plants require a pollinator to
reproduce. Animals that assist plants in their reproduction
as pollinators include species of bats, butterflies, moths,
flies, birds, beetles, ants, and bees.
Pollinator Syndromes
The flower type, shape, color, odor, nectar, and structure vary by the type of pollinator that visits them. Such
characteristics are considered pollination syndromes and can be used to predict the type of pollinator that will aid the
flower in successful reproduction.
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Flies
Flower flies such as syrphids masquerade as bees and wasps but have only one pair of wings. Putrid smelling
blossoms are an adaptation to attract certain fly pollinators. Even male mosquitoes (relatives of flies) get in on the act
since they pollinate certain orchids.
Wasps
In the tropics, minute fig wasps have co-evolved with fig plants. This partnership has been so successful that
today, there are over 900 species of fig plants, each with its own species of wasp.
Unusual Pollinators
Flowers have enlisted the aid of some very unusual pollinators. In Australia, charming big-eyed, long-nosed
marsupial mammals called Honey Possums drink nectar from Banksia blooms. On the island of Madagascar, Black-and-
white Ruffed lemurs are the pollinators of traveler’s tree (Ravenala madagascariensis). Off the coast of New Zealand, a
large island gecko moves pollen between flowers of New Zealand flax (Phormuim tenax) plants.
25
Strawberry-Watermelon
Summer Smoothie
Strawberries, watermelon and lemon yogurt combine three great tastes of summer
into a smoothie packed with calcium, vitamin A and vitamin C.
1 8-ounce container low-fat or fat-free lemon yogurt
3 cups cubed, seeded watermelon
1 pint fresh strawberries, cleaned and hulled
1 tablespoon honey or strawberry jam
3 ice cubes
1. Cut and seed watermelon.
2. Wash strawberries and remove stems.
3. Place yogurt, watermelon, strawberries, honey and ice cubes in a blender contain-
er.
4. Cover and blend until smooth and frothy. Serve in tall glasses with straws.
Makes 4 servings.
26
Independence Day: America’s Birthday
Summertime: the smell of the barbecue, the roar of holiday crowds at events throughout the
land, family, picnics and the beach. It’s America’s annual birthday party and everyone is invited.
Schoolchildren in America learn the basic history of the events surrounding the Fourth of July,
but the details of this monumental occasion in American history somehow fall through the
cracks.
Although July 4th is celebrated as America’s official split from Britain’s rule and the beginning of
the American Revolution, the actual series of events show that the process took far longer than a
single day. The original resolution was introduced by Richard Henry Lee of Virginia on June 7,
1776, and called for the Continental Congress to declare the United States free from British rule.
Three days later a committee headed by Thomas Jefferson was appointed to prepare an appro-
priate writing for the occasion.
The document that we know as the Declaration of Independence was adopted by Congress on
July 4th although the resolution that led to the writing of the Declaration was actually approved
two days earlier.
All of this had occurred with some of the delegates to the Congress not even present;
New York, for example, did not even vote on the resolution until July 9th.
Even more interesting is the fact that not a single signature was appended to the Declaration on
July 4th. While most of the fifty-six names were in place by early August, one signer, Thomas
McKean, did not actually sign the Declaration until 1781.
Nevertheless, July 4th was the day singled out to mark the event of the United States establish-
ing itself as a nation.
Only four American holidays are still celebrated on their proper calendar days:
Halloween, Christmas, New Year’s and Independence Day. Of all the secular holidays, the Fourth
of July is the only one whose celebration date resists change. Even in more provincial times,
suggestions to alter the day of the festival to the preceding Saturday or the following Monday
when July 4th fell on Sunday were protested.
The feeling about the sanctity of America’s Independence Day was best expressed in a quota-
tion from the Virginia Gazette on July 18th, 1777: “Thus may the 4th of July, that glorious and
ever memorable day, be celebrated through America, by the sons of freedom, from age to age
till time shall be no more. Amen and Amen.”
27
History of Father's Day
Sonora Dodd, of Washington, was one of the first people who had the idea of a “Father’s
Day.” She thought of the idea for Father’s Day while listening to a Mother’s Day sermon in
1909.
Sonora wanted a special day to honor her father, William Smart. Smart, who was a Civil
War veteran, was widowed when his wife died while giving birth to their sixth child. Mr. Smart
was left to raise the newborn and his other five children by himself on a rural farm in eastern
Washington state.
After Sonora became an adult she realized the selflessness her father had shown in
raising his children as a single parent. It was her father that made all the parental sacrifices
and was, in the eyes of his daughter, a courageous, selfless, and loving man. Sonora’s
father was born in June, so she chose to hold the first Father’s Day celebration in Spokane,
Washington on the 19th of June, 1910.
Even before Dodd, however, the idea of observing a day in honor of fathers was
promoted. Dr. Robert Webb conducted what is believed as the first Father’s Day service at
the Central Church of Fairmont, West Virginia in 1908. It was Dodd’s efforts, however, that
eventually led to a national observance.
President Calvin Coolidge, in 1924, supported the idea of a national Father’s Day.
Then in 1966 President Lyndon Johnson signed a presidential proclamation declaring the 3rd
Sunday of June as Father’s Day.
Happy
Father’s
Day!
28
Reminder:
All boats must
registered
annually.
Boat registration
stickers are just $5 at
the clubhouse.
34
POOL PASS (EXTRA GUEST / PARTY) POLICY
June 9, 2016
We all enjoy having friends and family at our beautiful Highland Lakes pool. In order to provide a
pleasant experience for everyone, we have to practice certain rules. The following rules ensure that the
pool terrace will have adequate room for co-owners and guests to relax and enjoy.
• Each unit is entitled to bring up to four (4) guests on any given day, in addition to the residents in
the unit. All occupants in the unit must be registered on the census form, located in the
clubhouse, and have a current pool pass.
• In the case of a rental unit, the co-owner (s) may retain the rights to the pool or turn them over to
the renter (s).
• The Property Manager may hand out passes on an unlimited basis for one or two extra guests
without it being defined as a gathering.
• A co-owner may request a special pass, not to exceed 15 people total, including the co-owner,
from the Property Manager. Passes will be approved if the number of people for each pass does
not exceed 15.
• Weekend passes must be obtained during the hours of 9:00am – 5:00pm, Monday through Friday.
• Only one (1) party or gathering pass will be approved for any given weekend day. A party or
gathering is defined as any total number of people between 10 and 15.
• No party or gathering passes will be issued for major holidays or on days that conflict with Pool
or Community Social Committee events.
35
Summer Selling Season!
Inventory is Highland Lakes is very low!
Call me today to get your home SOLD
while the market is hot!
Megan Atkinson
Around Town…
June 1
Highland Lakes
Resident & Realtor
First Friday Experience
5PM-9PM, Downtown Northville
(734) 414-3247
megan@pattimullen.com
June 1, 8, 15, 22, & 29
Friday Night Summer Concerts
7PM-9PM, Northville Town Square
June 2
Party in the Ville
1PM-9PM, Downtown Northville
June 2
Farm Fest 2018
10AM-11:30AM, Maybury Farm
June 10
First Open Sunday of Season – Mill Race
1PM-4PM, Mill Race Village
June 14
Yoga in the Park
6:30PM, Maybury State Park
42245 Scenic Lane
June 19, 26
Tunes on Tuesday
10:30AM – 11:30AM, Northville Town Square
June 23
Tour de Ville
7:30AM, The Village Workshop
(734) 414-3247
36
37
• The office of Curran & Christie has 300 closed
transactions in the Highland Lakes Complex
• Conveniently located in Highland Lakes shopping center
• Free market analysis
Northville Office (734) 464-6400
Joe Consiglio Fenton Office (810) 458-4273
Joe’s cell (734) 564-6457
Sandy Leone-Consiglio Sandy’s Cell (313) 815-1602
We are a husband jconsiglio7245@gmail.com
and wife real estate Servicing Wayne, Oakland, Livingston & Genesee Counties
team with over 50+
combined years in the
real estate market.
Senior
Discounts
38
www.HLCA.us
Visit our website to Download forms, browse the
photo gallery, read the newest Herald, bylaws, roofing
schedule, community calendar and much more!
www.youravon.com/geatmon www.marykay.com/geatmon
avonladyguinevere@gmail.com geatmon@marykay.com
39
The Northville Chamber of Commerce Presents:
RAF T BEER FES
EC TIV
ILL AL
HV
RT
***HIGHLAND LAKES PORCH REPAIR***
NO
Presented by:
REPAIR YOUR DETERIORATING BRICKS
& JOINTS
BEER l MUSIC l Entertainment
PORCHES CAN ALSO BE REPAIRED
Saturday, June 23, 2018, 2:00 - 6:00pm
DURING WINTER MONTHS
Millennium Park
45769 W. 6 Mile, Northville Township
SPECIAL
40 Gallon Gas
Water Heater
Installed for $790
I.S.E.
Garbage Disposal
Installed for $235
40
Highland Lakes Women’s Club
SAVE THE DATE:
The next get-together will be
June 7, 2018 at noon
salad luncheon
at the Clubhouse
Arranged by Bev Dudley
For further information about the Highland Lakes Women’s Club, you can contact
Bev Dudley at (248)349-4139 or leratcat@aol.com
All adult female residents of Highland Lakes are invited to meet with us!
42
protecting communities and
associations across Michigan.
Servicing all your insurance needs:
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612 W. University
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248-879-3100
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Merrick Maris, III Brandon Brown Rich Rossell
merrick.maris@fbinsmi.com brandonbrown@fbinsmi.com rrossell@fbinsmi.com
586-752-4861 248-257-5556 248-879-3100
43
June 2018
SUNDAY MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY SATURDAY
1 2
Drums Alive
9:30 a.m.
3 4 5 6 7 8 9
Clubhouse Drums Alive Yoga 9:30 a.m. Drums Alive
Yoga 9:30 a.m.
Comm. 7:00 Womens 9:30 a.m.
9:30 a.m.
p.m. Club noon
Ladies
Pinochle Yoga 6:00 p.m.
Court Liaison
12:30 p.m. Comm. 7:00 p.m.
10 11 12 13 14 15 16
Grounds Drums Alive Yoga 9:30 a.m. Drums Alive Hot Dog Daze
Comm. Yoga 9:30 a.m.
9:30 a.m. & 6:00 p.m. 9:30 a.m. noon - 2 p.m.
7:00 pm Pool Comm.
Ladies
5:30 p.m.
Pinochle
Ecology Comm. 12:30 p.m.
7:00 p.m. Engineering
Comm. 7:00 p.m.
17 18 19 20 21 22 23
Happy Father’s Finance Comm. Yoga 9:30 a.m. Drums Alive Yoga 9:30 a.m. Drums Alive
Day! 6:00 p.m. 9:30 a.m. & 6:00 p.m. 9:30 a.m.
Board Meeting Ladies
7:00 p.m.
Pinochle
12:30 p.m.
24 25 26 27 28 29 30
Yoga 9:30 a.m. Drums Alive Drums Alive Late Night Swim
Yoga 9:30 am
9:30 a.m. 9:30 a.m. & Fireworks
& 6:00 pm
8 p.m. - 11
Ladies p.m.
Pinochle
12:30 p.m.
1 2 3 Independence4 5 6 7
Clubhouse Yoga 9:30 a.m. Day Yoga 9:30 a.m. Drums Alive Hot Dog Daze
Comm. 7:00 & 6:00 p.m. 9:30 a.m. noon - 2 p.m.
Clubhouse open
p.m.
noon - 9 p.m.
Court Liaison Movie Night
Ladies Comm. 7:00 p.m.
Pinochle 9 p.m. - 11
12:30 p.m. p.m.