February 2019

Next Board Meeting

Monday, February 18, 2019
at 7:00 p.m.

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Snow FAQ
Page 2

HLCA Most Unwanted Enemy #9

Tree-of-Heaven
Pages 14-15

Bald Eagles in Michigan

Page 16

Snow Removal in
Northville TWP
Page 17

What’s Cooking
Page 19

Women’s Club
Page 25

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20301 Silver Spring Drive Northville, MI 48167

Phone: (248) 349-4006 Fax: (248) 349-8821
Website: www.HLCA.us Facebook: www.facebook.com/hlca.mi
During the weekend, how much snowfall is required before maintenance will be called

Removal
in?

Snow &
Answer: 4 inches or more measured in more than three areas on the property.

Why does my court seem to be last during the recent snowfall?

Ice
Answer: To attempt to bring some semblance of fairness, the starting point of snow
removal efforts change each time.

Why does it seem to take so long to clean my parking spaces?

Answer: Maintenance depends on the cooperation of the Co-Owners to empty the courts of
cars before plows can safely plow the spaces. The plows cannot fit in between parked
cars.

Why did Maintenance leave a small amount of snow on the sidewalk this time?
Answer: Leaving a small amount of snow provides traction to more safely walk.

FAQ
Why does the Association have an adopted snow policy?
Answer: (A) To keep our Co-Owners informed of what to expect from the Association
(B) It is required as part of our Risk Management procedures.
How long should it take Maintenance to completely finish snow removal efforts?
Answer: 48 hours or less depending on the weather and the amount of snow.
Answer: FIRST DAY SECOND DAY
1 – Streets 5 – Approach Walks
2 – Clubhouse 6 – Porches
3 – Main Sidewalks 7 – Parking Spaces
4 – Centers of Courts (Only if courts are clear of cars)

1.
S now R emoval P RoceduRes
NoRmal sNow eveNts:
1 ½ - 4 inches - Clearing will begin during normal work hours following the established Snow Policy.
2. laRge sNow eveNts:
4 inches or more - Maintenance will begin clearing main sidewalks and traffic lanes during the snow event. If necessary, they will continue the
removal effort until 10:00 p.m. The next morning they will begin a second clearing effort and start sidewalks and courts until they are cleared, or
until 8:00 p.m.
4 inches or more – Maintenance may clear on weekends, nights, and holidays following the Snow Policy depending on forecasted conditions. Day
1 Start times may vary and may work up to 12 hours.
3. sNow emeRgeNcies/BlizzaRds:
More than 10 inches - Efforts will be focused on keeping main roads, traffic lanes and main sidewalks open to emergency traffic only. Once those
elements are clear, work may begin on approach sidewalks and courts. Maintenance will work up to 14 hours per day, until the roads, courts and
walks are clear. Contractors may be called in if necessary. The priority treatment of the handicapped list will be suspended during these events.
Exceptions for emergencies will be handled on a case basis.
** Handicap list will be suspended during blizzards and large snow events.
4. PaRkiNg sPaces: After the primary snow removal efforts are completed, maintenance will begin clearing parking spaces if cars are out of the
court. When maintenance is ready to plow a court, the Association will contact the court residents by a robocall to facilitate the movement of
parked vehicles. Management encourages Co-owners to subscribe to our robocall telephone system, My Call Now; information is available at the
Clubhouse.
5. oveRall goal: The Association shall have the sidewalks, courts (not parking spots), and roads, clear within 48 hours of the cessation of a snow
event.
6. Icy Conditions: During an ice event, maintenance will work normal hours the day following the event to clear walks using ice melt, and courts/
roads of ice using salt. Since Michigan residents know that snow and ice are slippery, when ice and snow events happen sidewalks and roads
become extremely hazardous, please take extra care or avoid the danger when possible.
7. HazaRdous coNditioNs: During the winter, the weather conditions favor the potential for slippery sidewalks, porches and roads. Please use
due care and caution during this time of the year and keep a supply of ice-melter, which is available at the Clubhouse, at your home for your use.

2
 Highland Lakes
Management Section
Highland Lakes Board of Directors

Guy Balok, President

Michelle Todorov, Vice President
Margaret (Peggy) Zonca, Secretary
Ann Creviston, Treasurer
Michael Baynes, Director
Sandy Nolan, Director
Kathy Baldwin, Director
This section of the Herald contains minutes of the Board of Directors’ meetings
and management information. This section is the official medium of communica-
tions of the Association as prescribed by Board Resolution R-6, March 22, 1976.
We recommend that you not only read but save this section of the Herald for future
reference. Resolutions and Regulations approved by the Board become part of
your Association By-Laws.

3
 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 Alexis Jackson......................................Receptionist
Emily Lutzenkirchen.....Publications & Records Assistant Terry Duke............................................Receptionist
Sharon Englund.......................................Bookkeeper Aishia Anderson...................................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

Engineering Tom Werner ----- Guy Balok & Kathy Baldwin

Community Social Brad Todorov 248-380-1611 Guy Balok, Kathy Baldwin, Sandy Nolan, &
Michelle Todorov

Finance ----- 248-349-1747 Guy Balok & Ann Creviston

Grounds Joel Lutz 248-349-6782 Guy Balok, Sandy Nolan, Peggy Zonca, &
Michael Baynes

Herald ----- ----- -----

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

Tennis Carol Shields 248-756-7066 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
4
Highland Lakes
Herald

The Highland Lakes Herald is the official news medium of

the Highland Lakes Condominium Association, serving all
Herald Committee
residents, groups and organizations.
(looking for volunteers)
The Association and its Board of Directors control and are
Herald Staff responsible for the contents of the Herald.
Ray Parzych
Betty Parzych The staff of the Highland Lakes Herald serves on a voluntary
Joel Lutz basis. Editorials reflect the opinions of the staff and are not
Gloria Janks construed as representative of the general membership of
Ilio Alessandri the Association.
Barbara Evans
Luther Evans The Herald welcomes comments, suggestions and articles
Beverly Dudley from its readers. All material submitted for publication
in the Herald must be true, factual, and newsworthy. The
editor reserves the right to withhold items from publication
pending verification of facts. In some cases where items
are of a critical or controversial nature, the editor reserves
the right to solicit comments from those with opposing
viewpoints.

Materials submitted for publication are to be given to the

receptionist in Highland House. All materials submitted
must be signed, but signatures will be withheld upon request.
Communications to the Herald should be in writing. No
material will be accepted for publication in the upcoming
issue after the 20th of the month.

5
 SUPPORT OUR ADVERTISERS
AUTO REPAIR HOME REPAIR & HANDYMAN SERVICES

Phil's 76 Service........................................21 R.A.R. Construction Services, Inc................24

Roger the Handyman........................... ........24

FUNERAL ARRANGEMENTS
Templeton Construction...................... ........23
O’Brien Sullivan Funeral Home.............23
Wicked Floors.................................................25
HEATING & COOLING
INSURANCE
Harriman Heating Inc.............................22
Merrick Maris Insurance..........................27
HOME CARE PLUMBING

Hands At Home.......................................20 Evans Plumbing........................................24

HomeaideLLC..........................................20 REAL ESTATE

HOUSEKEEPING Century 21..................................................22

Megan Atkinson........................................18
House Keeping By Linda........................23
Real Estate One.......................................... 23

WINDOWS / WINDOWS REPAIR

R & H Glazing........................................... 25

https://www.facebook.com/hlca.mi

6
 HIGHLAND LAKES CONDOMINIUM ASSOCIATION
BOARD OF DIRECTORS MEETING MINUTES - January 21, 2019
The monthly meeting of the Board of Directors of Highland Lakes Condominium Association was held
on the third Monday of the month, in accordance with the By-Laws of the Association. President Guy
Balok called the January 21, 2019 regular meeting of the Board of Directors to order at 7:05 p.m.
Attendance
The following Directors were present: Guy Balok, Michelle Todorov, Ann Creviston, Peggy Zonca, Kathy
Baldwin, Sandy Nolan and Michael Baynes. Also present were Joe Poma, Property Manager, and Emily
Lutzenkirchen, Publications and Records Assistant. Approximately 10 Co-Owners attended.
Approval of Minutes: Clubhouse Committee Report: page 11
Board Action: Motion by Ann Creviston, support by Kathy Board Action: Motion by Ann Creviston, support by Michelle
Baldwin, to approve and file the minutes of the November 19. Todorov, to approve the Clubhouse Committee report of January
2018, executive session of the Board of Directors. All in favor. 7, 2019. All in favor. Motion passed.
Motion passed.
Court Liaison Committee Report: page 12
Financial Report
Discussion: Richard Wilson commented that the garbage truck
Joe Poma reported. drivers he spoke to are in favor of extra curb carts. They said it
makes cleanup easier and quicker. Joe spoke to the Advanced
The income account is favorable $2,361 mainly due to the recurring Disposal rep about multiple curb carts being added to the trash
AT&T check. corrals. He denied the request for multiple carts being placed
The administrative account is favorable $2,080 mainly due to a throughout the whole community but is willing to try it out in
part-time, daily janitor position being budgeted but not fulfilled 2-3 courts. Michelle asked Joe to request the trial corrals be in the
and no large office expenses. larger courts with more trash collection to see how it works out.

Utilities are unfavorable $3,474 because of gas bills being high due Ann asked if the remaining cinder blocks will be removed from the
trash corrals. Maintenance is still working on their removal.
to the cold weather.
Board Action: Motion by Sandy Nolan, support by Kathy Baldwin,
Clubhouse electric is favorable possibly due to the LED lighting.
to approve the Court Liaison Committee report of January 3, 2019,
Clubhouse maintenance and repairs are over because there is no and to add as many curb carts that can fit in the trash corrals on a
budget for the current cleaning company. Pool supplies and repairs trial basis on certain courts. All in favor. Motion passed.
are slightly over from the purchase of the 2019 pool operating
Engineering Committee Report: page 13
license.
Discussion: Unit 235 wants to install a stove vent hood. Instead
Grounds expense is favorable $1,468 mainly from maintenance of it being vented into the wall cavity the resident wants to put a
being down one full-time employee. hole in the exterior of the unit and directly vent the hood outside.
The request has been failed due to lack of construction drawings
Maintenance Repair & supplies are unfavorable $3,114 due to
showing how the piping will be installed inside the unit and no
several removals of 30 yd. dumpsters at the maintenance yard,
building permit.
gutter cleaning, major foundation leak work, plumbing work and
cabling of a unit. Unit 579 requested to knock part of a wall down. The drawings
submitted are not certified construction drawings.
Property and liability insurance is favorable $1,441 due to no losses
Board Action: Motion by Michelle Todorov, support by Ann
nor use of the deductible budget. Payroll taxes are favorable $1,848
Creviston, to approve the Engineering Committee report of January
from maintenance being down one employee, no janitor yet and a 16, 2019, and the recommendations to approve modifications #1-
major reduction in the unemployment payment rate. 2, and deny modification #3-4. All in favor. Motion Passed.
In the month of November the Association was favorable $3,248. Management Report: pages 8-10
December the Association was favorable $1,867 and year-to-date
Joe Poma reported.
favorable $20,603.
Board Action: Motion by Michelle Todorov to adjourn the public
Board Action: Motion by Peggy Zonca, support by Ann Creviston,
meeting.
to approve the financial report of January 21, 2019. All in favor.
Motion passed. The meeting adjourned at 7:35 p.m.

7
 MANAGEMENT REPORT
TO: Board of Directors, Co-Owners RE: Property Manager’s Report
FROM: Joe Poma, Property Manager DATE: January 21, 2019

1. Clubhouse Renovations: We are nearing the completion of the final phase of our renovations. The office staff
is back in the front of the clubhouse and we are making our furniture selections for the main lounge, library and
waiting areas. I’ve attached some photographs below to show you the progress. Within a month, there should be
no further disruptions of committee activities, yoga classes and resident rentals. Our updated clubhouse includes
new carpet, granite countertops, a library with a comfortable seating area, LED lighting and drop fixtures
throughout. The neutral and professional color scheme is sure to appeal to a broad range. With these nice new
surroundings also comes responsibility and our duty to take care of it. Rules from the co-owner manual and those
being discussed at the Clubhouse Committee level will be strictly enforced. Most of it is common sense; no
eating in the main lounge, water only in the Fitness Center, no pets allowed and restoring everything to the way it
was found prior to use. New rules and pictures will be posted on plaques in designated areas. Our community
was fortunate enough to have some major involvement from our committees and residents such as Susan
Crossley, that brought her fitness expertise and training for the benefit of the other residents and we now have a
commercial grade Fitness Center with equipment covering most recommended workout routines.

Before

After

2. Siding Project: The upcoming vinyl siding project really rounds out an exciting large-scale capital improvement
project for the site that includes / included asphalt and concrete, roofing, clubhouse and now completely tearing
off our existing, faded and thoroughly outdated aluminum siding, shutters and trimwork with all of its dents and
holes added over the years and since construction. At this moment, an Ad Hoc Committee appointed by the
Board and staffed by residents such as yourselves, are brainstorming ideas for color combinations, shutters, front

8
 MANAGEMENT REPORT
TO: Board of Directors, Co-Owners RE: Property Manager’s Report
FROM: Joe Poma, Property Manager DATE: January 21, 2019

door light fixtures, address plaques and mailboxes to bring our community into the 21st Century and bring back
the uniformity of styling that makes Highland Lakes unique. This isn’t just a matter of new siding; the lap-width
is changing from a 1970’s era 6-8 inch down to a 4-5 inch, giving the units a modern look and may very well
include cast or plate aluminum address plaques in Vision Committee-themed black and gold, carried over from
our street signs and the Master Plan of 2008. Lighting fixtures will be LED, energy efficient and add a touch of
class to our exteriors. Mailboxes will be installed to replace the wide variation of colors and styles currently in
place to get away from the multitude of different shapes, sizes, posts and colors and re-claim the main themes
required under the co-owner’s manual that got away from us over the last 47 years. Like the roofing project that
came before it, the siding project involves intense planning and vetting of contractors and procedures. We
anticipate that we will be able to move at the rate of about 15 buildings per year, making this roughly a six year
project. The residents will have their choices presented to them and the committee is working on a color palate,
like that of the clubhouse, that does not go to extremes and similar to the colors that are currently on the buildings,
the new color plan will be fairly neutral and appealing to the homeowner. All of the water spigots, exterior light
boxes, front porch lights, electrical entries to the units, meter boxes, phone boxes and other equipment will be
fully trimmed or incorporate bezels to give the exterior a finished look. Residents should however be mindful of
years worth of cable wires running up the exterior walls and stapled to it. These may have to be re-routed and
secured in another fashion, but we are working on resolving that issue as well. This year was supposed to be
primarily reserved for the planning stage, so we have $275,000 to commit to the project which will likely pay for
6 buildings if we can get the project off the ground soon. The budget thereafter reverts to $675,000 per year
carrying forward; this is money that has “already” been budgeted and is included in the assessments you are
currently paying. More details will follow as our planning comes together and we approach the actual contract
and implementation stage.
3. Asphalt & Concrete: Residents of the following courtyards should be ready for new asphalt and concrete this
year. What follows is a brief description of what is planned. Our contractors, Allied Asphalt and Macomb
Concrete tend to start earlier in the year, so I would be ready as early as April, although the project may
commence as late as July. More details will follow on this project as well, as we get closer to spring.

Anchor Court: mill and overlay to 2.5”
Richards Court: mill and overlay to 2.5” depth
Seabrook Court: remove & replace to 4” depth
Leidel Court: mill and overlay to 2.5” depth
Juliet Court: mill and overlay to 2.5” depth
Lagoon Court: mill and overlay to 2.5” depth
Oakland Court: complete tear out and replace
Irongate Court: mill and overlay to 2.5” depth
Neptune Court: mill and overlay to 2.5” depth
Sandy Court: mill and overlay to 2.5” depth

4. Robo-Call Database: Our new automated calling system is working great and is the easiest and fastest method
to get information to the residents, whether it’s for upcoming events, snow removal notices or details on local
criminal activity. I notice that several people are opting out of e-mails or requesting to have their phone numbers
removed. We honor these requests and respect your privacy, but some of you have removed the “only” method of
contact. I would encourage everyone to have at least one way for us to contact you using this system, especially
in cases where you are not at home and we need to have a vehicle removed for parking lot maintenance. We
could always place a separate call to each individual, but you can see where that would be a cumbersome process
if we are trying to get things done right away or if there is some sort of major alert. I will continue to remove
contact information upon request, but the above is just something to keep in mind. We do our best to only send
messages that are important or where we need to notify the entire community, but winter weather or rain has
prevented us from posting signs.
5. Swan Harbor Lake Shoreline Project: A few years ago, the Association contracted with Seaside Seawalls, Inc.
to install a new beach surrounded with an elaborate stone wall at Swan Harbor Lake. This is an often overlooked
section of the property because it’s tucked away across a large field behind Lagoon Court and Lehigh Lane.
Recent inspections of the shoreline have revealed brush, vegetation, buckthorn and other unwanted natural growth
on either side of the beach that obscure the view of the lake and make the beach less appealing. We had a similar
problem on Crystal Lake around the lagoon behind Whitman and Mariner Courts. I have asked the same
company we used for the Crystal Lake project (Water Landscapes, Inc.) to cut and remove all of this material
around Swan Harbor Beach. The project is supposed to take place in February or March and will hopefully
involve minimal damage to grass from machinery that has to be transported there. As with the Crystal Lake
project, removal will be calculated to preserve the shoreline and the root systems that hold it there with the
exception of the buckthorn. Once removed, we will see how long it takes for the area to re-grow and will
establish a preventative maintenance plan going forward.

9
 MANAGEMENT REPORT
TO: Board of Directors, Co-Owners RE: Property Manager’s Report
FROM: Joe Poma, Property Manager DATE: January 21, 2019

6. Christmas Decorations: Remember to take down all of your exterior lights, ornaments and decorations. They
look great around Christmas, but not in February.
7. Resident Volunteer Effort: Highland Lakes is fortunate enough to have residents that dedicate their time and
individual areas of interest and expertise for the benefit of our community. Volunteer efforts can range from
becoming involved with a committee, forming study groups for upcoming projects, offering training programs for
our new Fitness Center, or hosting yoga classes or cardio drumming. Without this effort, we would be the
standard condominium association with a couple of Board meetings per year, perhaps a fee managed association
with special assessments or a reduced standard of care. When residents become involved, they truly make this
community into something that they want to see. I encourage all residents to volunteer at the committee level and
become involved in our association.

Old Fitness Center

New Fitness Center Training

10
 HIGHLAND LAKES COMMITTEE REPORT
COMMITTEE: Clubhouse Committee MEETING DATE: January 7, 2019
MEMBERS PRESENT: Cheryl Huizing GUESTS PRESENT:
Barb Balok, Chairperson Rosemary Campion Guy Balok, Board President
Richard Wilson Elaine Anderson Ann Creviston, Board Liaison
Yvonne Wilson Sandy Nolan, Board Liaison
Betty Parzych Kathy Baldwin, Board Liaison
Ray Parzych Joe Poma, Property Manager
Mike Baynes, Board Liaison
Gloria Loudy

SUBJECTS DISCUSSED:

1. Renovation Update: Office furniture has been ordered and scheduled for delivery this week. Fitness center equipment
has been installed and we are waiting on a couple of items to make our purchase complete.

2. New Business: We discussed Fitness Room rules and are working as a group to come up with guidelines for posting.

RECOMMENDATIONS TO THE BOARD: None

NEXT MEETING: Monday, February 4, 2019 at 7:00 p.m.

Submitted by Barb Balok

11
 HIGHLAND LAKES COMMITTEE REPORT
COMMITTEE: Court Liaison Committee MEETING DATE: January 3, 2019
MEMBERS PRESENT: GUESTS PRESENT:
Joel Lutz, Chairperson Peggy Zonca, Board Liaison
Andrea Valle Guy Balok, Board President
Sharon Smith Kathy Baldwin, Board
Barb Adams Michael Baynes, Board Liaison
Barb Balok Ann Creviston, Board Liaison
Liz Oliver Sandy Nolan, Board
Dianne Hartman Yvonne Wilson
Richard Wilson

SUBJECTS DISCUSSED:
1. The current Aqueduct Court liaison has moved to Florida. We will need a new liaison starting in February.

2. Court liaison representatives for the Siding Adhoc Committee will be Liz Oliver and Colleen Pilgrim. The first meeting will
be January 10th at the clubhouse.

3. Discussion was held regarding the effectiveness of trash carts located inside the trash bin on Longwood court. Originally
extra trash carts were requested because of problems with skunks getting into trash bags. Richard Wilson reported that they
have had 100% compliance with no loose trash and no more issues with skunks. Signs were placed on the trash bin explain-
ing the proper use of the carts.
A recommendation will be made to the Board regarding adding trash carts to all bins. See below.
Discussion was held regarding cost and it was agreed that this was an issue for the Board to decide.
Kathy Baldwin will inquire about the status of removing the cement blocks currently located in the bins. A work order was
submitted several months ago.

RECOMMENDATIONS TO THE BOARD: It is recommended that as many trash carts as will fit be added to each of the
trash bins in the complex. It is further recommended that they have holes in the bottom and no lids.
To explain the new protocol and the reason for the change to residents it is recommended that a notice be placed in the Herald, a
robocall be done and signs be placed outside the bin. The intent is that all trash be placed in the carts (with the exceptions currently
listed by trash bins). The notice could also include a reminder that cardboard should be taken to the recycling bin by the clubhouse.

NEXT MEETING: Thursday, February 7, 2019 at 7:00 p.m.

Submitted by Sharon Smith

12
 HIGHLAND LAKES COMMITTEE REPORT
COMMITTEE: Engineering Committee MEETING DATE: January 16, 2019
MEMBERS PRESENT: GUESTS PRESENT:
Thomas A. Werner, Chairperson Guy Balok, Board Liaison
Kim Hudson, Secretary
Richard Wilson
Dave Burfoot

MODIFICATION REQUESTS REVIEWED:

1 Unit 576 Storm Door SD-1 3 Unit 235 Kitchen Vent Fan
Installation by: Defender Door Installation by: Chuang Hua Interior Constructions
Meets HLCA Requirements Does Not Meet HLCA Requirements
Note: Needs more detail - construction drawing
2 Unit 596 (2) Windows
Installation by: Wallside 4 Unit 579 Remove 4 ft. of living room wall
Meets HLCA Requirements Installation by: Tom'z Inc.
Does Not Meet HLCA Requirements
Note: Need township approval - No construction
drawings

RECOMMENDATIONS TO THE BOARD: To approve modifications #1-2; reject modifications #3-4

NEXT MEETING: Wednesday, February 13, 2019 at 7:00 p.m.
Submitted by Tom Werner

13
 HLCA Most Unwanted Enemy
#9 Tree-of-heaven
(Ailanthus altissima)

What’s wrong with Tree-of-heaven?

Tree-of-Heaven, also known as Chinese sumac

or stinking sumac is an extremely competitive,
rapidly growing deciduous tree native
Northeastern and Central China and Taiwan. It
can reach heights of 70 to 100 feet and up to 6
feet in diameter and may easily grow 10 to 15
feet in one year. Notorious for growing in
sidewalks, close to building foundations or any
crack with soil to support germination. In
urban areas, tree-of-heaven roots can damage
sewer lines and structures. The tree Betty
Smith refers to in her book, “A tree grows in
Brooklyn” is actually a tree-of-heaven! Literally, this tree will grow anywhere. But this tree is
actually The Devil in Disguise due to its invasion into natural areas, agricultural fields,
roadsides and backyards throughout the United States. Female trees may produce up to 325,000
seeds per tree. New trees may reproduce from root suckers, increasing this plant’s invasiveness.
Additionally, toxic compounds from leaf decomposition exhibit allelopathic effects that help
tree-of-heaven outcompete native plant communities.

What does Tree-of-heaven look like?

When young, the bark is green and smooth. As it ages, the bark
begins to resemble the skin of a cantaloupe, light brow to gray
in color. Twigs are very stout with no terminal bud. Leaf scars
are large V or heart-shaped. Leaves are compound, one to four
feet in length, alternate, and composed of 10 to 41 smaller
leaflets. Each leaflet has one or more glandular teeth along the
lower margin. The leaf margins are otherwise entire or lacking
teeth. Male and female flowers usually occur on separate trees
(dioecious); however, both bisexual and uni-sexual flowers have
been reported on individual tree-of-heaven. Flowers occur in large
terminal clusters and are small and pale yellow to greenish. Flat,
twisted, winged fruits each containing a single central seed are
produced on trees in late summer to early fall and may remain on
the trees through winter.

14
Identification should not be confused with native
staghorn sumac, ash, black walnut and hickory,
which also have pinnately compound leaves.
Sumac has fuzzy, reddish-brown stems and
leaves; ash species have opposite leaves; ash,
black walnut, hickory and sumac leaf margins are
completely to mostly toothed. Another
distinguishing characteristic for tree-of-heaven is
that all parts of the tree, when crushed, especially
the leaves and flowers, have a strong, offensive,
rotten peanut butter odor.

How do I manage Tree-of-heaven?

As with other invasive plants, tree-of-heaven is

very difficult to control by simple cutting or by
other mechanical means. Not only will trees
resprout with tremendous vigor, but massive
root suckering also occurs, which in some cases
results in many more new stems spreading over
a wider area. Depending on soil conditions, very
young seedlings are fairly easy to pull or dig out
with a weed wrench. Pull when soils are moist and be sure to remove the entire tap root. Hand-
pull preferably before August when tree-of-heaven produces seeds.

Herbicides are usually the most effective way to kill the root system of mature tree-of-heaven
and to control regrowth from cut trees that occurs as sprouts or root suckers. Although
aboveground portions of tree-of-heaven are relatively easy to suppress or kill with herbicide
treatment, it is also important to control the root system. Therefore, special attention should be
paid to selection of the correct herbicide, optimal application rate, and appropriate time to get
good results. Care should always be taken when using any herbicide near non targeted plants. It
is important to read and carefully follow all instructions and warnings provided on the herbicide
label.

~ Ecology Committee

15
 Bald Eagles in Michigan
Ron Zurney, a resident of Highland
Lakes, saw a large bird glide past his
doorwall New Years Eve morning. It
landed on the ground on the Southwest
corner of Crystal Lake. To his surprise it
was a bald eagle! It flew away before
Ron could grab his camera but he was
able to capture a picture of the bird in a
tree near the shore by the fishing
benches. What a beautiful site!
Picture provided by Ron Zurney

Four Facts about Bald Eagles:

1. Bald Eagles are not in fact bald! The old English word for white is “balde”, thus they are
named for their white heads.
2. The most recent survey data from 2015 shows that there were 14 occupied nests in
Monroe County and six occupied nests in Wayne County that produced a total of 21
eaglets.
3. Weighing about 16 pounds with a wing span of 6.5-8 feet, bald eagles are second only to
golden eagles in size. Unlike golden eagles, bald eagles both overwinter and breed in
Michigan.
4. Bald eagle populations steadily decreased through the first half of the 1900s due to
human disturbances at their nest sites, loss of habitat and human persecution. Starting in
the 1950s their slow decline took a sudden, sharp and dramatic plummet towards
extinction across the lower 48 states, including Michigan, because of pesticide use,
especially pesticides containing DDT and PCBs. The bald eagle remained on the
Michigan Endangered Species List until June of 2007. Today there are more than 800
nesting pair of bald eagles in Michigan.

Information found at: https://www.record-eagle.com/news/local_news/dnr-fun-facts-about-

bald-eagles/article_6d72b46e-345a-5e87-abad-0bb96c12833f.html

https://www.lenconnect.com/news/20170523/bald-eagle-numbers-soaring-in-se-michigan

16
 Snow Removal in Northville TW

Snow is finally in the forecast! Winter brings cold weather, snow days and
hazardous road conditions. Northville Township wants you to be informed
about the following snow-related topics:

• Northville Township does not plow streets; this is the responsibility of

Wayne County or your own Homeowner's Association by contract.

• The Township only salts sidewalk and pathways on township-owned

property; Wayne County Roads or your HOA contractor salts streets.

• Residents and business should try to remove snow and ice from the
adjacent sidewalks within 24 hours of a snow/ice event.

• Northville Township does not issue "Snow Emergencies" but be aware

when an event is happening; move your car off the streets when
possible to aid in clearing roads. If a "Snow Emergency" does occur,
it would be issued by Wayne County.

Information via Northville TWP e-newsletter

17
We are still facing low inventory in Highland Lakes and a
high buyer demand make it an ideal time to sell!
Let's get your home on the market today!
734.414.3247

19311 Crystal Lake

Feb. 1-3: Clue - A Northville High School Production

Feb. 1: First Friday Experience
Feb. 8: Daddy Daughter Dance, 6PM-8PM
Feb. 9-10: ArtCrush - A Fundraiser for the Northville Art House
Feb. 15: Elvis Presley, Frank Sinatra Valentine’s Day Tribute Show 8PM, at the
Marquis Theatre
Feb. 18: President’s Day Hike at Maybury State Park, 10AM-11AM
18
 Red Velvet Cupcakes

"Little versions of classic red velvet cake! Frost with cream cheese frosting or white frost-
ing."
Ingredients
1/2 cup butter 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
1 1/2 cups white sugar 1 tablespoon distilled white vinegar
2 eggs 2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup buttermilk 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 fluid ounce red food coloring 1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Directions
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Grease two 12 cup muffin pans or line
with 20 paper baking cups.
In a large bowl, beat the butter and sugar with an electric mixer until light and fluffy. Mix
in the eggs, buttermilk, red food coloring and vanilla. Stir in the baking soda and vinegar.
Combine the flour, cocoa powder and salt; stir into the batter just until blended. Spoon the
batter into the prepared cups, dividing evenly.
Bake in the preheated oven until the tops spring back when lightly pressed, 20 to 25 min-
utes. Cool in the pan set over a wire rack. When cool, arrange the cupcakes on a serving
platter and frost with desired frosting.

Recipe on allrecipes.com by:pinkspoonula

19

We help seniors maintain their independence
in their home by assisting them with personal
care, light housekeeping, meal preparation,
errands, companionship and respite care.
HomeAideLLC in home caregiving services
has been in business 13 years and a BBB ac-
credited business with an A+ rating.
Charlotte Thibault-Balluff CSA® is a Certi-
fied Senior Advisor with over 30 years of
experience working with seniors.
Website: www.homeaidellc.com
Office: 734-744-5496
Email: charlotte@homeaidellc.com
9615 Newburgh Rd.
Livonia, MI 48152
Charlotte Thibault-Balluff
Owner-Nurse
Important Safety Information
PARENTS: Depending on weather conditions among other
things, the ice that covers our lakes during the winter may
be thin in areas and it is recommended that you do not leave
your children unattended. PLEASE BE CAREFUL!
Are you considering assisted living for yourself or an elderly loved one? In
search of independent living, memory care for Alzheimer’s and dementia,
assisted living, adult foster care, retirement communities, nursing homes, or
in-home care? Need help with other senior living solutions such as financial
advisors, therapists, and hospice?
Trust your senior care needs with a specialist with 30 years experience! At
NO COST TO YOU our advisors can help you find the perfect senior liv-
ing solution to meet your loved ones needs and budget!
Need help with other senior living solutions? Our consultants can also
help connect you with professionals we know and trust to help you with
all things aging, elder law attorneys, financial advisors, visiting nursing,
physicians, and therapists, palliative and hospice care providers, movers, or
home care agencies.
A Place for You by HomeAideLLC
Charlotte Thibault-Balluff CSA®
CERTIFIED SENIOR ADVISOR SENIOR
TRANSITIONS SPECIALIST
20
21
 • The office of Curran & Oberski 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.

FURNACE TUNE-UP SPECIAL!

FURNACE TUNE-UP
Senior
SPECIAL
Discounts

WE SERVICE ALL BRANDS INCLUDING

Heating & air Conditioning
• Clean & Check
248-231-2102 • Oil Motors
• Clean Filters
HarrimanHeating.com • Check Thermostat
• Test Carbon Monoxide

22
 TEMPLETON CONSTRUCTION
Professional & Affordable
Handy Man Services

Electrical Flooring
Plumbing Painting
Decks Crown
Molding

Daniel Templeton
248-977-2742

Your Highland Lakes Realtor Connection

Twice the Knowledge, Twice the Experience,
Twice the Service!
We’ve helped many of your neighbors and are
ready to help you. If you are thinking of buying
or selling, please give us a call!
Real Estate One Northville / Novi
41430 Grand River Ave, Suite D
Mary Ketelhut Novi, MI 48375 John O’Brien
734-634-8128 248-756-0414

“The Customer Experience is “Nobody works harder for

the Heart of My Business” satisfactory results.”

23
 ROGER THE HANDYMAN
**HIGHLAND LAKES PORCH REPAIR** • Need a light in
that closet?
REPAIR YOUR DETERIORATING BRICKS • Does the door
& JOINTS stick?
NO JOB
PORCHES CAN ALSO BE REPAIRED TOO SMALL...
DURING WINTER MONTHS! WE BID THEM ALL!
10% OFF JANUARY - MARCH! Painting, Carpentry, Electrical,
Plumbing, Drywall & Plaster Repair,
QUALITY WORK AT AFFORDABLE Wallpaper Removal, Leaky Fixtures,
COST Wax Rings, Install Ceiling Fans.

**CALL R.A.R. CONSTRUCTION Bonded and Insured

SERVICES, INC. AT 248/444-6105 FOR CALL FOR YOUR FREE ESTIMATE!
YOUR FREE INSPECTION AND
ESTIMATE** 1-888-391-4040
Sharon: 734-732-2066 roger: 734-732-0771

SPECIAL
40 Gallon Gas
Water Heater
Installed for $975

I.S.E.
Garbage Disposal
Installed for $305

24
R & H GLAZING, INC.
LICENSED & INSURED • 23 YEARS EXPERIENCE • GUARANTEED WORK
WE REPAIR ANY WOOD, VINYL OR ALUMINUM WINDOW
SPECIALIZING IN BROKEN, SEALFAILED & FOGGED

(734) 379-5355
OR NO TRIP
CHARGE
(734) 422-5355
• Association Discounts FREE
• 10 Year Warranty on Glass ESTIMATE
• “Low E” Reflective & Tinted Glass
• Lowest Prices in Town
• Parts Available for Most Windows
• Completed Promptly & Efficiently
• Two Weeks Service on Most Jobs

DO YOUR WINDOWS HAVE...

• Seal Failure? Moisture in Glass?
• Windows Don’t Stay Up?
• Stripe Failure?
• Is Your Window Manufacturer
out of Business?

CALL NOW! Highland Lakes Residents

RICK THE WINDOW DOC! Mention this ad

(734) 379-5355 for $100 off!

Highland Lakes Women’s Club

SAVE THE DATE:
The next get-together will be
February 7, 2019 at noon
Deadwood Bar & Grill
18730 Northville Rd
Northville, MI
Arranged by Rosemary Campion
March 7, 2019 at noon
Lena's Kitchen
28345 Beck Rd suite 106
Wixom, MI
Arranged by Diane Butkowksi
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!

25
 Highland Lakes Court Liaisons
NOTE: ALL AREA CODES ARE 248 UNLESS INDICATED OTHERWISE

Anchor Ironwood Neptune

Tracey Green........................321-4614 Barbara Balok.............734-667-3507
Althea Itham
Sue Tocco............................ 231-8960 Daniel Long................734-245-6191
Amboy Juliet
Brad Todorov.........................380-1611 Debra Behrmann........734-934-0625
Andover Kenyon
Pam Takacs...........................374-0864 Elizabeth Dombles..............Unlisted
Aqueduct Lagoon
VACANT Marchelle Brotz...........517-525-1661
Bryn Mawr Lehigh
Robert Gorczyca.............734-751-7828 Lela Lutz............................349-6782
Dartmouth Lehigh Lane
Colleen Pilgrim................734-292-6885 Dianne Hartman.................229-3884
Dearborn Leidel
June Macveigh.......................348-0113 Barbara Adams..................982-8247
Dorothy Gay Lilac
Gayathri Rao.........................344-8791 Barbara Evans...................348-3087
Eddington Longwood
David Duey.....................586-996-2098 Jim O’Connor.....................344-6600
Farragut Lyric
Beverly Dudley.........................unlisted Minda Commire.................701-0004
Hayes Madison
D. & G. Loudy (B 30, 31 & 32) Judy Nakdimen.................344-0336
..................................................349-3308
Malvern
Inlet Viviana Lande ...................320-0691
Betsy Byrne...........................207-6221
Mann
Irongate Sharon Smith.....................348-0706
Diane Butkowski....................982-2689
Mariner
Douglas Perrin....................Unlisted
Lucy Curtis (B33)..............349-0301
Mary Kay Wimsatt (B34)...767-9846
Elizabeth Oliver (B35).......880-2637
.
Norwood
Stan Savitskie .............. ..946-4338
.
Oakland
Earl Smith.........................349-6478
Old Bridge
Linda Tomica...................349-6107
Pond
Diane Pittaway............... .347-1078
Queen Anne
Kathy Baldwin..................974-6688
Richards
Mike Baynes....................826-9435
Sandy
Beverly Brenner...............348-2982
Savoy
Jason Kraska.....................unlisted
Schoolhouse
Leslie Wilcox.......... .........449-6726
Seabrook
Andrea Valle.....................819-0704
Valiant
Ilio Alessandri ................ ..449-6959
View Point
Stanley Roberson.....734-674-3600
Whitman
Barbara Evans.................348-3087
Windsor
Tom Werner.....................349-4459

26
 Maris Brown
covers Business
Servicing all your insurance needs:
• Condominium Associations
• Homeowners Associations
• Apartment Buildings
• Commercial Auto
• Director’s and Officers Coverage
• Fidelity Bond Coverage
• Equipment & Machinery Coverage
• Worker’s Compensation
• Contractors
• Unit Owner & Homeowner
• Personal Auto
• Life

Merrick Maris Brandon Brown

merrick.maris@fbinsmi.com brandonbrown@fbinsmi.com

(248) 257-5556
1055 South Blvd E. Suite 140, Rochester Hills
56849 Grand River Ste. 12, New Hudson
FarmBureauInsurance.com

27
February 2019
SUNDAY MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY SATURDAY
1 2
Groundhog
Day
Trash &
Recycling
Pickup
3 4 5 6 7 8 9
Clubhouse Yoga 9:30 a.m. Yoga 9:30 a.m.
Comm. 7:00 Women’s Club
p.m. noon
Court Liaison Trash &
Recycling Recycling Comm. Recycling
Pickup Trash Pickup Pickup 7:00 p.m. Pickup
10 11 12 13 14 15 16
Yoga 9:30 a.m. Engineering Valentine’s
Comm. 7:00 p.m. Day
Ecology Comm. Yoga 9:30 a.m.
7:00 p.m. Trash &
Recycling Recycling Recycling
Pickup Trash Pickup Pickup Pickup
17 18 19 20 21 22 23
Finance Comm.
6:00 p.m. Yoga 9:30 a.m. Yoga 9:30 a.m.
Board Meeting
7:00 p.m. Trash &
Recycling Recycling Recycling
Pickup Trash Pickup Pickup Pickup
24 25 26 27 28 1 2
Yoga 9:30 a.m. Yoga 9:30 a.m.

Trash &
Recycling Recycling
Recycling
Pickup Pickup
Trash Pickup Pickup
3 4 5 6 7 8 9
Clubhouse
Yoga 9:30 a.m. Yoga 9:30 a.m.
Comm. 7:00
p.m. Women’s Club
noon
Court Liaison Trash &
Recycling Comm. Recycling
Recycling
Pickup 7:00 p.m. Pickup
Trash Pickup Pickup

CLUBHOUSE WINTER HOURS

Monday - Friday......................9:00 a.m. - 9:00 p.m.
Saturday................Noon - 9:00 p.m. Sunday..............Noon - 5:00 p.m.