Minutes of the Annual Meeting of the Deer Creek Homeowners Association January 29, 2004 Approved 1-25-05 President Behrendsen convened the meeting at 7:35 p.m. in Meeting Room B of the Livonia Civic Center Library, with 27 homeowners in attendance.
Board Members Present: Denny Behrendsen, Harry Rodgers, Suzanne and Charles (Buzz) Steffes, Diane Tsaprazis, Larry Schroer, and Bob Moore. All members were present.
Introduction of New Neighbors Present: Greg and Edith Baise (Pembroke Dr.), Brian Gulik (Gary Lane), and Dale Zahn (Ellen Ct.).
Minutes of January 29, 2003: The minutes were distributed to all present. A motion was made to accept the minutes as written, seconded, and passed by acclamation.
Treasurer’s Reports: A. The 2003 report was read and explained by Buzz Steffes. The report showed that 153 homeowners (73%) paid dues generating income of $11,175, which plus donations and a previous year balance resulted in total income of $11,457.92. General expenses were $3,442.58 with project expenses totaling $2,450, leaving an ending balance of $5,565.34. We have two outstanding liabilities: $1,900 due Sprinkler Services pending inspections and $232 due for island expenditures. A motion was made to accept the report as written, seconded and passed by acclamation. B. The Proposed Budget for 2004-2006 was explained by Buzz Steffes. A homeowner asked about island refurbishment because two dead trees are in her nearby island. President Behrendsen replied that we do not project to have the funds for that purpose until 2006. He also explained our sign plan. Previous signs have weathered considerably. New signs will be made of sign foam and should last at least 10 years. The President also explained the situation with the sprinkler company to whom we have a pending liability. If we do not pay them, we will need to hire an electrician to insure the project is up to code. A motion was made to accept the budget plan as written, seconded and passed by acclamation.
Old Business A. Results of Investigation into Mandatory Dues: President Behrendsen read his handout (attached to official minutes). At a homeowner’s request, each Board member explained their rationale for the plan to seek mandatory dues. A homeowner recommended reducing the dues amount as an incentive. A homeowner noted there is no limit on the assessment amount; President Behrendsen said the final amendment will have limitations. A homeowner recommended we show everyone what neighboring communities are assessing; the analysis presented at last year’s annual meeting was passed around the room. A homeowner recommended that the dues amount be a part of the annual meeting procedures. President Behrendsen explained that at present homeowners must pay dues to vote, and that each household is entitled to two votes with no proxies.
A. Results of Investigation into Mandatory Dues, continued. A homeowner questioned how liens each year, penalties, and new homeowners would be handled; President Behrendsen stated that the final proposal with contain specific language. Another homeowner stated that our current $75 annual dues equate to only $6.25 per month, and recommended that the amount not be reduced, and any available funds be used for boulevard tree replacement. The Board explained that we anticipate a “get out the vote” effort to make sure we have a quorum for the proposed amendment. The resolution was approved by acclamation.
B. Accomplishments of the Board of Directors Since the Last Annual Meeting: The accomplishments were outlined in the agenda. President Behrendsen explained that Glen Eden Cemetery has proposed selling its west portion. Originally they sought an R-C (condo) designation, which we opposed, and the City Council recommended R-4. The Council will have a Study Session next Monday at 8 p.m. in the City Hall auditorium. A row of detached condos along 8 Mile and next to the golf course is proposed. President Behrendsen explained that one of our concerns is the water pressure problem. Furthermore, the parcel east of Chestnut Grove is zoned R-4.
Board of Directors Election: The term of all Board members has expired, except for Bob Moore who has one year remaining as a Trustee. Nominations from the floor were requested three times. A motion was made to accept the following slate of nominees for a two year term, seconded and passed by acclamation: President: Denny Behrendsen Vice President: Bob Moore Co-Treasurers: Suzanne and Charles (Buzz) Steffes Secretary: Diane Tsaprazis Trustees: Larry Schroer, Evelyn Villarruel, and Walt Gerstner
New Business: A. Garage sale: a representative was not present; 2004 date not yet available. B. Welcome Committee: Chairperson Sylvia Leski explained that the group visited eleven new residents this year. She introduced the four homeowners who distribute our welcome baskets. C. Tree Replacement: President Behrendsen explained that the City cannot replace trees currently and is not promising them any time soon. The City requires homeowners to pull a permit and use recommended trees - see www.ci.livonia.mi.us, in Dept. of Public Work’s Forestry Dept. A homeowner questioned if a permit is needed to replace trees on the islands - we do not think so because islands are not City property, however, we will confirm. A homeowner asked us to consider obtaining a volume discount for new trees. D. City Ordinance and Deed Restriction Reminders E. Other: Harry Rodgers was thanked for his service to our neighborhood since inception.
Adjournment: It was moved by acclamation that the annual meeting of January 29, 2004 be adjourned. President Behrendsen adjourned the meeting at 8:58 p.m.
Minutes prepared by Diane Tsaprazis |