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May 2019
The following is the latest in a series of monthly messages from the RVR Master Association Board, called “A View From The Board.” The messages summarize recent Board decisions and discussions, and are designed to bring RVR homeowners up to date on issues important to the community.
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Dear RVR Homeowners,
At our May 22 monthly meeting, the RVRMA Executive Board unanimously approved an updated Enforcement Policy and Fine Schedule.
The revised policy streamlines the enforcement process for settling violations – including notices, hearings and fines.
During discussion that preceded the vote, the Board stressed its desire to create a culture of compliance with our existing rules. We hope to do this through warnings, conversations, and courteous dialog between RVR management and homeowners – without the need for fines.
When, on occasion, these “friendly” tactics don’t work, we have to have a way to bring about compliance, and that’s why the Board formalized a Fine Schedule.
The Board has always had the duty to enforce RVR’s governing documents; it’s what you elected us to do. If you have questions or concerns about any issues relating to our governing documents, please contact our General Manager, Sterling Page: gm@rvrcommunity.com
Board Establishes Governing Documents Committee
Our original governing documents are more than 20 years old. Like a 20-year-old home needing a kitchen remodel, our documents are ready for an update as well. Through our Board discussions about enforcement, it became clear we have some rules that have not kept up with the times. But we don’t get to pick and choose which rules to enforce. If a rule or covenant isn’t working, we need to change it.
So, at our May 22 meeting, the Board voted to establish a new Governing Documents Committee. The committee will explore – and eventually recommend to the community – what changes are needed in our Covenants, By-Laws, Design Guidelines, Policies and Procedures, and Rules and Regulations.
Here are a couple of examples, based on input from the community.
Camper Parking: Currently, our covenants only allow for parking of campers and trailers during daylight hours – to facilitate loading and unloading. Some residents have asked to be allowed to park for 24 hours, so they can leave in the morning. Is 24 hours the right number? If not, what is it?
Short-term Rentals: Some RVR homeowners are concerned about the impact of short-term rentals, and how those rentals may change the nature of the community. Right now, there are no rental restrictions, other than the requirement for a lease to be on file at the RVR office. Do you want a limit on the number of short-term rentals? Would RVR still be RVR it we had 100 rental units? Should there a minimum length of rental? If so, what is it?
The Governing Documents Committee is designed to address these kinds of issues. Board member Gary Lesser has agreed to chair the committee. He will be joined by fellow Board member Ben Johnston, a partner in a local law firm, who is well versed in HOA law. The committee will also include RVR homeowners who have demonstrated an interest in representing the entire community – and not just focusing on a single issue they’re interested in.
When the committee forms, it will work closely with the RVR community to understand what you want fixed. Over the summer, we will survey the community to ensure the committee is looking at issues that are important to the vast majority of the community.
It’s the right thing to do, but changing our covenants won’t be easy. It requires a two-thirds vote of all property owners. The bar is set intentionally high, to make sure changes adopted are ones the community really wants.
Board is Tackling Tough Issues
Over the past year, the RVRMA Board has faced some difficult issues, beginning with the RVR golf course. I can’t say enough for all our current Board members, who have worked tirelessly to address these issues.
The Board has a diverse range of skills and experiences – finance, technology, human resources, public relations, law, corporate operations and more. These broad perspectives enhance our dialog and strengthen our decision-making. I’m proud of the way we’re able to work collaboratively, always focused on what’s best for the community.
In July, two of our Board members’ terms expire: Vice President and Golf Committee Chair Gary Lesser, and Landscape Committee Chair Gary Harada. Both Garys are making significant contributions to the Board and community; both have agreed to stand for re-election.
We’ll have more on the Board election process in upcoming issues of our Friday RVR weekly newsletter.
Summer’s Almost Here
It’s been a long winter, but summer’s just around the corner.
I want to remind you that school will be out soon, so please slow down as you’re driving thru the neighborhood. You’ll see a lot more kids crossing our RVR streets, so please use an extra measure of caution.
With our endless winter and wet spring finally coming to an end, I’m hopeful that we will avoid a repeat of the destructive fire season we experienced last summer.
Finally, a pat on the back to our Ranch House staff, led by Community Services Manager Kendra Ford. They have a ton of great events and programs on tap for you this summer. Keep an eye out for event schedules in our Friday RVR newsletters.
As always, I look forward to your feedback. Send your questions or concerns to Kendra (csm@rvrcommunity.com). She’ll pass your comments along to the Board, or respond to you directly.
Our next Board meeting is Wednesday, June 26, at 5:30 pm in the Ranch House Board meeting room. Hope to see you there.
On behalf of your volunteer RVRMA Board,
Yvonne Perry
Board President
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