Recently Austin Energy distributed flyers in the neighborhood offering free trees and placed flags on properties to indicate where the tree could be planted. The HOA requires all landscape improvements be approved by the Architectural Review Committee. Please obtain approval before planting the trees. |
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surprised of HOA quick response
I submitted a request to extend our fence to our HOA thinking it was going to take at least 2 weeks to get a respond, but I got a response the same day asking for another document needed to be submitted also, and only 2 days later, I recived an email with the approval.
I am quite suprised and gratefull for their quick response... THANK YOU HOA!!
approval of tree placement
The HOA Architectural Review Committee missed a great opportunity to place a positive spin on the donation of free trees for our neighborhood. Instead of publishing a reminder that these trees MUST be approved before planting, could you have simply surveyed the neighborhood, noted the recommended placement by TreeFolks, and only contacted homeowners who had a questionable spot assigned for their new tree(s)? You could have even just walked the neighborhood and moved the yellow flags that did not meet the Pioneer Crossing HOA standards. Wouldn't it have been nice to read an announcement to "Celebrate Texas Arbor Day and plant your free tree to help make our neighborhood cooler. Unless the review committee contacts you regarding the placement of your free tree, plant away and enjoy!"
I know that I have made the choice to live in a neighborhood with an HOA, like it or not. The intent of setting standards for property care is a good thing. However, there is much to be said for the "honey, rather than vinegar" approach.
Please come by and approve my designated tree spot. My free trees have been delivered and are waiting to be planted.
Marcy McNeil
Approval of Tree Placement - Reply
I couldnt agree more. How ridiculous and time consuming for the architectural review committee to require every single recipient of the trees to submit request for approval when they can just drive around and flag those that are in violation (yellow flags). Why would they want to create additional work for themselves AND the residents? I have seen notices and reminders posted all around the neighborhood. How much is it costing ME to have someone print those notices and post them and to have the ARC review and respond to every single request for tree planting? Is this where the 10% increase in HOA fee being spent?
Tree planting
Anon,
It is not costing you anything! Besides, driving around would be more time consuming and costly to the ARC. As required by the CCR's you must first notify the ARC about your improvement -- even if it is a "free" program from the City. The ARC is a committee made up of voluteers who live in the community. They process hundreds of requests a year. We have a system that is fast and easy to process such requests. It is only the laziness of the individual who wishes not to apply for their request. Any major changes to your landscape requires approval from the ARC. It is imperative that you follow guidelines to avoid damaging any underground utilities and sidewalks while planting these trees. Unfortunately, common sense does not always rule! Check before you dig!
Several people have taken it upon themselves to ignore the rules and have planted these trees without considering the dangers and damage that will become evident later on.
I apologize for the harshness but this admonishment is what keeps our neighborhood desirable and attractive to those wishing to become part of a livable community.
Sincerely,
Your Prez