Recent minutes of a Board meeting include comments that "Residents were assured that specifications developed by Western Architects are being followed in ongoing maintenance and siding repairs."
Anyone who actually reads the MANY different reports prepared by Western Architects would dispute the factual accuracy of this statement made at a recent meeting. While falling short of an outright lie, it certainly is so general as to be inaccurate on the face of it!
The siding is being replaced with primed T1-11. After some initial mistakes, even cut edges are being primed. That is, as far as I can see, the only recommendation developed by Western Architects that is being incorporated in the maintenance. The vast majority of expense saving procedures for repair and replacement of T1-11 are NOT being followed at all.
Where siding is being replaced surrounding a window, proper flashing and sealant application is not followed. Check the information on the Tanasbrook Association page relating to window replacement.
Where light fixtures are affixed to a building, Western recommended blocking the attachment. Not being done.
Western examined the false chimney fascia on the one story buildings. They noted numerous problems. The board adopted a policy to remove these useless cosmetic features. They contribute to premature roof failure, and in some cases cover a flue in violation of current codes. Not followed, they have been repaired.
Western indicated that the use of T1-11 on fences is not a good idea. In any case, the T1-11 should not be closer than six (6") to the ground. Not followed.
The Board should, in my opinion, address these shortcomings. The Association spent thousands of dollars identifying cost effective procedures to reduce long term maintenance costs. The failure of the board to utilize these recommendations on current and future maintenance is at best inept, and at worst outright negligence.
Saturday, January 7, 2012
Tuesday, November 8, 2011
Sometimes I wonder..
Can it be true? Can the board be planning to spend limited funds to improve the "cosmetics" at the clubhouse?
The paint and siding on my unit are in disrepair. The fence gate only closes because I have the strength to force it closed. The road in Lakeway Lane has deteriorated into potholes. Tree roots have bucked streets, parking areas and pathways. A dozen or more pine trees are infested with bark beetle, and are dying, presenting safety and fire hazards. In terms of prioritizing the use of Association funds, it would seem several of these issues must be more important to residents that the appearance of the club house or additional security patrols.
In addition, the newly found "decorator" has determined that a multicolor scheme would enhance the appearance of the club house. I am sure the colors will bring joy and happiness to our otherwise dreary military existence and soften the blows as the roof leaks over our heads...
The paint and siding on my unit are in disrepair. The fence gate only closes because I have the strength to force it closed. The road in Lakeway Lane has deteriorated into potholes. Tree roots have bucked streets, parking areas and pathways. A dozen or more pine trees are infested with bark beetle, and are dying, presenting safety and fire hazards. In terms of prioritizing the use of Association funds, it would seem several of these issues must be more important to residents that the appearance of the club house or additional security patrols.
In addition, the newly found "decorator" has determined that a multicolor scheme would enhance the appearance of the club house. I am sure the colors will bring joy and happiness to our otherwise dreary military existence and soften the blows as the roof leaks over our heads...
Tuesday, October 25, 2011
Missing Chairman's Letters 2010
Regardless of whether you agree, the elected Chairman of the corporation has a right to be heard and express their opinions. Post event deletion of statement and events is repugnant censorship, and smacks of infantile jealousy and childishness.
September 2010 Tanasbrook Times
October 2010 Tanasbrook Times
October 2010 Tanasbrook Times page 2
September 2010 Tanasbrook Times
October 2010 Tanasbrook Times
October 2010 Tanasbrook Times page 2
Revisionist Historians and Honesty in Government
The "Arab Spring" breathes new life into democracy in countries long dictated over by rulers who were insulated from reality. Ghadafi tells CNN reporter Amanpour that "his people love him"..despite his best efforts..they "loved" him to death..
Human experience should prove that facing realities honestly is the only way to govern any organization, nation, or condominium association. The fact that history is being revised by the current board, that opinions that they deem inconsistent with their view of reality are deleted from Association history, should cause alarm bells to ring. If any corporation attempted to "erase" events from their corporate record, it would cause shareholder/investor alarm, and the stock price would plummet.
I have been told that two issues of the Tanasbrook Times are missing from the record accessible to the public. (October and September 2010) Truthfulness and transparency are the only appropriate responses to ideas that you disagree with. It is juvenile, and ultimately damages the entire community, when those ideas and opinions are simply "deleted". The issues don't go away, nor do the beliefs of the individuals.
Those of you looking at your annual property tax statements, and seeing your "investment" values plummet need to ask yourselves..were the ideas expressed in the Chairman's Letters that far off the mark? Is hiding from reality working for you??
Human experience should prove that facing realities honestly is the only way to govern any organization, nation, or condominium association. The fact that history is being revised by the current board, that opinions that they deem inconsistent with their view of reality are deleted from Association history, should cause alarm bells to ring. If any corporation attempted to "erase" events from their corporate record, it would cause shareholder/investor alarm, and the stock price would plummet.
I have been told that two issues of the Tanasbrook Times are missing from the record accessible to the public. (October and September 2010) Truthfulness and transparency are the only appropriate responses to ideas that you disagree with. It is juvenile, and ultimately damages the entire community, when those ideas and opinions are simply "deleted". The issues don't go away, nor do the beliefs of the individuals.
Those of you looking at your annual property tax statements, and seeing your "investment" values plummet need to ask yourselves..were the ideas expressed in the Chairman's Letters that far off the mark? Is hiding from reality working for you??
Friday, October 21, 2011
Fall and Winter- Facing wet weather
The recent roof replacement developed a huge leak..apparently caused by the juxtaposition of the air vent and a downspout. The roofers and CMI were quick to respond. I had to deal with the leak for only two days. There was no significant interior damage ( minor spotting) since the water entered through the header above the door. I still have ceiling damage from the last roof leak..but that is another story..
Do you ever suspect that Washington pols create "political diversions" in order to deflect attention from more significant problems? The fuss over increasing the debt limit ( paying for the charge account both parties developed) is an example. Another, closer to home, is the recent painting of "no parking" signs every 20 feet or so on the curbs. In the 18 months I have lived here, there has never been a problem with parking in any of the areas around this street. I can't help but wonder how such an insignificant problem received such dramatic treatment. Could it be the "Security Committee" at work? Solving all of our major problems?
I see that the budget and reserve process has started again. Since it appears that the current contractor is preparing an estimate for siding repairs on Rolling Hill Drive and Rolling Hill Lane, and there are not sufficient reserves to cover the work..I expect both a dues increase and a special assessment in 2012. Hopefully, potential buyers will check out what the board plans in 2012..and not get a nasty surprise!
Do you ever suspect that Washington pols create "political diversions" in order to deflect attention from more significant problems? The fuss over increasing the debt limit ( paying for the charge account both parties developed) is an example. Another, closer to home, is the recent painting of "no parking" signs every 20 feet or so on the curbs. In the 18 months I have lived here, there has never been a problem with parking in any of the areas around this street. I can't help but wonder how such an insignificant problem received such dramatic treatment. Could it be the "Security Committee" at work? Solving all of our major problems?
I see that the budget and reserve process has started again. Since it appears that the current contractor is preparing an estimate for siding repairs on Rolling Hill Drive and Rolling Hill Lane, and there are not sufficient reserves to cover the work..I expect both a dues increase and a special assessment in 2012. Hopefully, potential buyers will check out what the board plans in 2012..and not get a nasty surprise!
Sunday, September 25, 2011
Color Chices impact value
Points to Consider
- When choosing house paint, you should first consider your geographical region. Colors that are commonplace in the Southwest will not suit the Northeast. Landscape, light and foliage are different in each area and contribute to the look of the home. Also consider the architecture of your home. A small bungalow needs different treatment than a large colonial house. Victorian houses tend to be more playful with color. These styles of houses all have inherent color palettes that work best with their type of architecture. Research the best colors for your type of home at the library, in books or magazines and online. You don't have to follow these guidelines exactly, but they are a good starting point when looking at paints for a home exterior.
Neutrals
- Neutral colors are always a safe choice when considering resale value. Tans, grays, off-whites and taupe can be tasteful and subdued. Add touches of color on doors and house trim to add more interest, but keep it understated. White trim on a neutral color with added touches like darker-toned shutters can give a house character and elegance. Paint manufacturers have formulated many neutral colors with subtle undertones. These can be effective at adding a feeling of color while still retaining the tasteful, neutral note.
Muted Color
- If neutral colors are too boring for your taste, indulge in color but go for more muted colors that fit in well with the surrounding environment. Blues can be risky, but not if you choose a grayish-blue that looks more like slate, a natural outdoor color. This shade of blue creates a serene, yet crisp effect, according to ThisOldHouse.
Read more: The Best House Colors for Resale | eHow.com http://www.ehow.com/info_8482131_house-colors-resale.html#ixzz1YzFEoDFO
Saturday, September 24, 2011
A picture is worth....
The most recent newsletter assures owners that current siding repair and replacement is being done using recommendations provided by Western Architects.
Rather than arguing the point..here is a photo of recent work..do you see paint on the exposed cut?
The first coat of paint is on....the aesthetics leave a bit to be desired. The color does not blend well with the community or the landscape. Too bad the exisitng palete was discarded in favor of "Desert Storm" colors..They would really look good in Phoenix or Santa Fe!
The first coat of paint is on....the aesthetics leave a bit to be desired. The color does not blend well with the community or the landscape. Too bad the exisitng palete was discarded in favor of "Desert Storm" colors..They would really look good in Phoenix or Santa Fe!
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