April 2016 Herald ONLINE

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HIGHLAND LAKES
CONDOMINIUM ASSOCIATION
April 2016

April 2016

NEXT BOARD MEETING:
Monday, April 18, 2016
at 7:30 p.m.
FIND US ON FACEBOOK!

www.facebook.com/hlca.mi

Election Schedule
Page 2
Pancake Breakfast & Easter
Egg Hunt
page 16-17
Community Garden
page 20
What’s Cooking?
page 21

Mark your calendars!!
May 14
Highland Lakes Community
Garage Sale
May 18
Meet Your Neighbor Event

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

ELECTION SCHEDULE
Three Director seats are up for election this year.

Advertise for Candidates:
April Herald
First Mailing of Election Notice:
Monday, March 11, 2016
Deadline for Candidates resumés:
Friday, April 15, 2016 by 5:00 p.m.
Meet the Candidates Night:
Monday, April 18, 2016 at 7:00 p.m.
Prior to the regular meeting of the Board of Directors.
Mailing of Ballots and Proxy:
Week of April 25, 2016
Ballots due in Clubhouse:
Friday, May 13, 2016 by 5:00 p.m.
41st Annual Meeting of the Co-Owners:
Monday, May 16, 2016, 7:30 p.m.
Election winners will be announced at this meeting.

YOU CAN MAKE A
DIFFERENCE IN YOUR
COMMUNITY!
2

Highland Lakes
Management Section
Highland Lakes Board of Directors

Kathy Baldwin, President
Michelle Todorov, Vice President
Tom Byrne, Treasurer
Sandy Nolan, Secretary
Kathleen Connor, Director
Judy Nakdimen, Director
Guy Balok, Director
This section of the Herald contains minutes of the Board of Directors’ meetings
and management information. This section is the official medium of communications 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: [email protected]
Fax: 248-349-8821
Web: www.HLCA.us

After Hours Emergency Maintenance Phone: 248-349-4043
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Kathy Baldwin, President............ 248-974-6688
Kathleen Connor, Director........... 248-207-6417
Michelle Todorov, Vice President.. 248-380-1611
Judy Nakdimen, Director............. 248-344-0336
Tom Byrne, Treasurer.................. 248-345-9334
Guy Balok, Director..................... 734-667-3507
Sandy Nolan, Secretary............... 248-349-3587
PERSONNEL
Guinevere Eatmon........Senior Receptionist (Notary)
Julie Leja...............................................Receptionist
Alexis Jackson......................................Receptionist

Joe Poma........................................Property Manager
Emily Lutzenkirchen.....Publications & Records Assistant
Sharon Englund.......................................Bookkeeper

COMMITTEE INFORMATION
COMMITTEE
Clubhouse
Court Liaison

CHAIRPERSON
Barb Balok
Joel Lutz

PHONE
734-667-3507
248-349-6782

Engineering

Tom Werner

248-349-4459

Community Social

Brad Todorov

248-380-1611

Finance

Joyce Elvy

248-349-1747

Grounds

Marti Tupper

248-348-9811

Herald
Ecology
Pool

-----

-----

BOARD LIAISON
Tom Byrne, Judy Nakdimen, Sandy Nolan
Kathy Baldwin, Sandy Nolan
& Kathleen Connor
Tom, Byrne, Kathleen Connor
& Judy Nakdimen
Guy Balok, Judy Nakdimen
& Michelle Todorov
Tom Byrne, Guy Balok, Kathleen Connor
Kathy Baldwin, Kathleen Connor
& Judy Nakdimen
Kathleen Connor, Sandy Nolan

-----
-----
Rosemary Campion 248-349-8227

Guy Balok, Tom Byrne, Michelle Todorov
Guy Balok, Kathleen Connor,
& Sandy Nolan
Cheryl Huizing 248-231-7603
RV
Hugh Battley
248-349-4841
Michelle Todorov
Tennis
Carol Shields
248-305-7123
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 (Fred Campbell) ..............................................................................248-953-7380
Web site ......................................................................................................................................www.HLCA.us
Association Facebook Page ..............................................................................................facebook.com/hlca.mi

4

Highland Lakes
Herald

Herald Committee
Joy Gaskin

Herald Staff

Ray Parzych
Betty Parzych
Joel Lutz
Tom DeGalan
Gloria Janks
Ilio Alessandri
Barbara Evans

The Highland Lakes Herald is the official news medium of
the Highland Lakes Condominium Association, serving all
residents, groups and organizations.
The Association and its Board of Directors control and are
responsible for the contents of the Herald.
The staff of the Highland Lakes Herald serves on a voluntary
basis. Editorials reflect the opinions of the staff and are not
construed as representative of the general membership of
the Association.
The Herald welcomes comments, suggestions and articles
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

Flash Glass..................................................22

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

BEAUTY / SKIN CARE

INSURANCE

Amway........................................................22

Merrick Maris Insurance.......................... 27

Avon/Mary Kay........................................23

PLUMBING

CARPET & FLOORS

Evans Plumbing........................................ 22

Simply Floor Coverings............................25

REAL ESTATE

FUNERAL ARRANGEMENTS

Real Estate One.......................................... 23

O’Brien Sullivan Funeral Home.............. .22

WINDOWS / WINDOWS REPAIR

HEATING & COOLING

R & H Glazing........................................... 24

Harriman Heating Inc...............................24
D & G Heating...........................................25

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

6

HIGHLAND LAKES CONDOMINIUM ASSOCIATION
BOARD OF DIRECTORS ANNUAL MEETING MINUTES - March 21, 2016

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 Kathy Baldwin called
the March 21, 2016, regular meeting of the Board of Directors to order at 7:32 p.m.
Attendance
The following Directors were present: Kathy Baldwin, Michelle Todorov, Sandy Nolan, Guy Balok, Kathleen
Connor, and Judy Nakdimen. Also present were Joe Poma, Property Manager, and Emily Lutzenkirchen,
Publications and Records Assistant. Approximately nine Co-Owners attended.
Approval of Minutes:

a third pickup date being added to the contract. Cheryl
Huizing asked if the Association could get a larger bin.
Joe replied that the eight gallon bins are standard, but the
biggest problem he sees is the fact that instead of people
taking the extra time to push their recyclables deeper
into the bin or even lift the top lid they are placing their
recyclables on the pavement outside of the bin. Peggy
Zonca mentioned that she notices this in her court with
the regular trash bins also. Tom requested that Joe keep an
eye on it as the weather gets warmer and if it gets worse
to schedule a third pickup. Kathleen brought up that she
believes the notice signs are causing non-residents to use
the bin. Joel replied that even without the signs you can
clearly see the recycle bin and that is just the nature of
things.

Board Action: Motion by Tom Byrne, support by Judy
Nakdimen, to approve and file the minutes of the February
15, 2016, executive session of the Board of Directors. All
in favor. Motion passed.
Treasurer’s Report:
Tom Byrne reported.
Just as in the last few months, accounts receivable is at
$50,000.
Income is favorable due to the usage of AT&T. Year to
date, the Association has received about $10,000 and is
placing it into long-term.
Administrative, snow removal, utilities, and maintenance
wages are all running favorable due to the mild winter.
Property and liability insurance is favorable due to lack
of basement flooding. Employee benefits are running
favorably at the moment, but a rate increase in June will
affect that.

Joel commented that the crumbling cement on the
sidewalks apparently has a lot to do with what is underneath
the cement. Tom mentioned that the Board is considering
hiring a contractor to do a study of sidewalks, parking
lots, and roads in the entire area and provide prioritized
suggestions of what needs to be done. The Board is aware
of the opportunity there and will hopefully be addressing
the issues in the future. Kathy commented that some of
the problem is related to snow removal equipment. Joe
mentioned the soil contains a lot of clay which creates a
lack of drainage. Tom suggested that if residents think
there is a safety hazard, they should call the office so that
the issue can be addressed.

The Board discussed seeking a new contract for gas since
rates continue to fall. Joe obtained a few bids and the
Board signed a new two-year contract. The cost to get out
of the current contract was $22,000, but the new contract
will save the Association $100,000 annually for the next
two years. The Board believes it was a good move.
Clubhouse Committee Report: page 9

Board Action: Motion by Tom Byrne, support by Guy
Balok, to approve the Court Liaison Committee report of
March
3, 2016. All in favor. Motion passed.
Board Action: Motion by Sandy Nolan support by
Kathleen Connor, to approve the Clubhouse Committee Ecology Committee Report: page 11
report of March 2, 2016. All in favor. Motion passed.
Cathy Watkins reported.
Court Liaison Committee Report: page 10
Discussion: Cathy discussed hiring an arborist to train
Joel Lutz reported.
maintenance and residents in identifying and pruning
Discussion: The recycling bin has been to the point of shrubs. Tom asked how much the arborist would cost.
overflowing multiple times, which led to the inquiry of Cathy replied that the cost will be $350 and the training
would take about four hours. The arborist would present
Barb Balok reported.

7

a slideshow first and then go out to identify shrubs and that he did call the school and spoke to the principal but
discuss how and when to prune them.
the real owner of the fence is currently unknown. Kathy
told Joe that if he doesn’t hear from the principal soon, he
The arborist did say that the best time to do this presentation
should call the superintendent.
would be when the forsythias bloom; so, a date has not
yet been set. Tom and Michelle discussed the best time to Management Report: page 14-15
have the presentation, if the Board will approve paying
Board Action: Motion by Tom Byrne, support by Judy
maintenance overtime to attend, and if the presentation
Nakdimen, to approve the Property Management report
could be divided into two separate sessions. Cathy replied
of March 21, 2016. All in favor. Motion passed.
that she would contact the arborist to see if he would be
willing to do this.
Old & New Business:
In the Ecology report, there is a suggestion that the
spraying of the apple trees be stopped. Cathy commented
that the spraying is mainly for cosmetic purposes. If not
sprayed the trees may get spots on their leaves but this
usually doesn’t harm them. Tom asked Joe to find out
how much the Association would save if they no longer
sprayed and if they could get out of the current contract.

1. Board Meeting Survey: Barb Balok inquired about
the board meeting survey results. She is worried that
if the Board meetings change, eventually there will be
very little to no attendance. Joe replied that he received
76 surveys. Of those, 25 wanted monthly meetings, 11
wanted bimonthly, and 22 wanted quarterly. Although it
appears that monthly is the more popular choice, 55 of the
76 preferred something other than monthly. Kathy stated
Board Action: Motion by Tom Byrne, support by Sandy
that the Board will discuss the results and let the residents
Nolan, to hire an arborist for $350 and pay overtime for
know their decision. Cheryl Huizing suggested that
the affected maintenance staff. Date to be determined.
Board members discuss the need for monthly meetings at
All in favor. Motion Passed.
the Meet Your Neighbor Event.
Board Action: Motion by Michelle Todorov, support
2. Highland Lake’s Election: Election time is right
by Judy Nakdimen, to approve the Ecology Committee
around the corner. If you are interested in joining the
Report of March 8, 2016. All in favor. Motion Passed.
Board please have your resumes in by 5 p.m., April 15.
Engineering Committee Report: page 12
3. Meet Your Neighbor Event: The next event will take
place 6:30 p.m., May 18.
.
Tom Werner reported.
Board Action: Motion by Tom Byrne, support by Guy 4. Pool Meeting: The first meeting of the year will take
Balok, to approve the Engineering Committee Report of place at 5:30 p.m., April 5. Cheryl Huizing asked Joe
if any lifeguards will attend. He replied that although
March 15, 2016. All in favor. Motion Passed.
currently none are scheduled, he will encourage them to
Finance Committee Report: page 13
attend.
Board Action: Motion by Tom Byrne, support by Sandy
5. Furnace Approvals: Peggy Zonca asked about the
Nolan, to approve the Finance Committee Report of
furnace installation request on the Engineering Committee
February 15, 2016. All in favor. Motion Passed.
Report. She did not know that Engineering Committee
Michelle Todorov reported that the Community Social approval was needed before installation. Joe replied that
Committee’s Pancake Breakfast and Easter Egg Hunt only 95% or above high-efficiency furnaces using PVC
were very successful. Approximately 100 breakfasts to vent water vapor which requires drilling holes through
served, and 36 children attended the book reading and the foundation need approval.
egg hunt. It was nice to see new faces enjoying the
The Meeting adjourned at 8:40 p.m.
Association’s functions.
Co-owner Forum:
Peggy Zonca spoke on behalf of Schoolhouse Ct. about the
privacy fence located between building #1 and the school
parking lot. The fence is now leaning at a 160-degree
angle and, if it weren’t for the bushes, would be lying on
the ground. She is concerned that the school children will
jump and play on the fence after school hours. Joe replied
8

HIGHLAND LAKES COMMITTEE REPORT
COMMITTEE: Clubhouse Committee
MEMBERS PRESENT:
Barbara Balok - Chairperson
Elaine Anderson
Rosemary Campion
Betty Parzych
Ying Zhang

MEETING DATE: March 2, 2016
GUESTS PRESENT:
Kathy Baldwin - Board President
Sandy Nolan - Board Liaison
Judy Nakdimen - Board Liaison
Joyce Elvy

SUBJECTS DISCUSSED:
1. Ideas for Updating Clubhouse. Considered changes to flooring, furniture and other décor; installation of a rail on steps
near kitchen, and the possibility of seeking some professional design assistance to develop a cohesive plan.
2. Meet Your Neighbors. Decided to repeat this event at 6:30 p.m., on Wednesday, May 18.
3. Book Shelving Date. Members will meet in the Library at 10:00 a.m., Saturday, April 2, to sort and shelve books.

RECOMMENDATIONS TO THE BOARD: There were no recommendations to the Board.
NEXT MEETING:Monday, April 4, 2016 at 7:00 p.m.
Submitted by Barbara Balok, Chairperson
9

HIGHLAND LAKES COMMITTEE REPORT
COMMITTEE: Court Liaison
MEMBERS PRESENT:
Joel Lutz - Chairperson
Diane Pittaway - Co-chair
Barbara Adams - Secretary
Betsy Byrne
Dianne Hartman
Peggy Zonca
Stan Savitskie
Steve Sapp

MEETING DATE: March 3, 2016
GUESTS PRESENT:
Joe Poma - Property Manager

SUBJECTS DISCUSSED:
1. Recycling seems to be a hit with residents, filling up the recycle bin so quickly it appears that we could use a third pickup
each week. Joe indicated that the general trash pickup contract is not due to be renewed till August, but at which time he is
going to attempt to negotiate out the cost of a third recycling pickup.
2. It is also apparent that not all residents are informed as to what exactly is considered recyclable material. There will be
fliers and signage placed within our community and in the Herald to explain what items are recyclable and what items are
not.
3. Snow removal can be hindered by residents who continue to park their vehicles over the curbs, thus impeding the snow removal equipment access to the entire sidewalk. Please help our Maintenance Dept. by giving them the courtesy of leaving
room for them to clear our sidewalks completely.
4. Snow removal priority is determined by the timing and the amount of snow expected. Highland Lakes' crew will now start
early in the morning if the snow has fallen in the evening hours in order to get the middle of our parking lots and roadways
plowed out. Joe also shared that even though Silver Springs is a county road Highland Lakes assumes responsibility to plow
it out as well to ensure we have a clear path out in the morning. Wayne County would most likely not be able to clear Silver
Springs in such a timely manner.
5. The crumbling sidewalks were also mentioned. It was thought that the material used to replaced the concrete was inferior.
However, that is not accurate. Testing on the material that Sinelli used was done and found to be within State of Michigan
standards. The crumbling is all a matter of how much clay, rocks, etc. is in the soil below the area the concrete has been laid.
6. The Annual Yard Sale was mentioned. Donna McNally, who has since moved away, was the resident who was instrumental
at managing this event, and did it very well. Anyone interested in assuming this role, please contact the clubhouse.
7. A committee member volunteered to deliver Heralds in a court without a liaison this month.

RECOMMENDATIONS TO THE BOARD: There were no recommendations to the Board
NEXT MEETING: Thursday, April 7, 2016 at 7:00 p.m.
Submitted by Barb Adams, Secretary
10

HIGHLAND LAKES COMMITTEE REPORT
COMMITTEE: Ecology
MEMBERS PRESENT:
Cathy Watkins
Liz Gannon
Tom Byrne
Kathy Baldwin
Sandy Nolan
Guy Balok
Barb Balok

MEETING DATE: March 8, 2016
GUESTS PRESENT:
Joe Poma - Property Manager

SUBJECTS DISCUSSED:
1. Discussed using lake water for use on lawns near Swan Harbor Lake.
2. An item from Lakes Ecology involved finding winter storage for the boats along Silver Springs Lake. This committee will
look for a spot.
3. Discussion of shrub pruning to be done in-house with new hires. We recommended bringing in a professional to give a
training session on proper techniques and identification of specific shrubs.
4. Discussion on lawn maintenance; Joe and Cathy are going to meet with a new lawn service which is supposed to have a more
ecological approach to lawn care and see if it is something that would be feasible for Highland Lakes.
5. We recommend that the tree spraying be stopped. Joe is going to see what our contractual obligations are at this time.
6. Discussion on working on creating a site inventory/analysis of Highland Lakes and long range plans.

RECOMMENDATIONS TO THE BOARD: There were no recommendations to the Board.
NEXT MEETING: Tuesday, April 12, 2016 at 7:00 p.m.
Submitted by Cathy Watkins
11

HIGHLAND LAKES COMMITTEE REPORT
COMMITTEE: Engineering Committee

MEETING DATE: March 15, 2016

MEMBERS PRESENT:
Thomas A. Werner - Chairman
Kathleen Connor - Board Liaison

GUESTS PRESENT:
Joe Poma - Property Manager

MODIFICATION REQUESTS REVIEWED:

1

Unit 18
Installation by:

Entry Door ED-5, Storm Door SD-3
Home Depot
Meets HLCA Requirements

5

Notes:
2

Unit 50
Installation by:

Unit 380
Installation by:

Doorwall PD-1
Wallside
Meets HLCA Requirements

6

Unit 429
Installation by:

Unit 543
Installation by:

Electrical Outlet
Family Heating & Cooling
Meets HLCA Requirements

Notes:
Marygrove Awning
Marygrove Awning
Meets HLCA Requirements

7

Notes:
4

ADA Wheelchair Ramp
James Biddle
Meets HLCA Requirements

Notes:

Notes:
3

Unit 504
Installation by:

Unit 664

Furnace Installation
Heinanen Engineering
Meets HLCA Requirements

Notes:
Doorwall
Wallside
Meets HLCA Requirements

8

Notes:

Unit 479

Storm Door SD-1
Home Depot
Meets HLCA Requirements

Notes:

RECOMMENDATIONS TO THE BOARD: To approve modifications 1-8
NEXT MEETING: Tuesday, April 12, 2016 at 3:00 p.m.
Submitted by Tom Werner, Committee Chairman
12

HIGHLAND LAKES COMMITTEE REPORT
COMMITTEE: Finance

MEETING DATE: February 15, 2016

MEMBERS PRESENT:
Joyce Elvy - Chairperson
Joy Gaskin
Ann Creviston
Earl Smith
Barb Balok

GUESTS PRESENT:
Joe Poma - Property Manager
Guy Balok - Board Liaison
Kathleen Connor - Board Liaison
Kathy Baldwin - Board President
Sandy Nolan - Board Liaison
Judy Nakdimen - Board Liaison
Michelle Todorov - Board Liaison
Emily Lutzenkirchen - Publications & Records Assistant

SUBJECTS DISCUSSED

1. The Association is doing very well so far with Accounts Receivable at $53,881.
2. Joe and the Board discussed the mild winter, the lack of need of salt, no overtime and lower utility costs are
the reasons for the surplus.
3. We discussed the water line for the storage lot. Previously there has been leaks and continuously needs repairs. Joe will follow-up with maintenance and keep an eye on it going forth this spring.
4. Joe requested permission for the real estate taxes for $3,706.68 be paid.
Motion by Michelle Todorov, support by Sandy Nolan to pay for real estate taxes for 2016. All in favor. Motion Passed.
5. The roofing contract was approved for $850,000. This will take us to the calendar year of 2016.
6. Allied Asphalt is going around the property and assessing the roads, courtyards, sidewalks, and catch basins.
They will be putting a proposal together for the future asphalt & concrete project.
7. Joe and the Board are receiving quotes from multiple gas companies for the next gas contract.

RECOMMENDATIONS TO THE BOARD:
None
BUDGET MEETINGS:
March 21, 2016 at 6 p.m.

13

MANAGEMENT REPORT
TO: Board of Directors, Co-Owners
FROM: Joe Poma, Property Manager

RE: Property Manager’s Report
DATE: March 21, 2016

1. DTE Tree Trimming: Beginning in mid-April, DTE Energy will be trimming trees away from its power lines that run behind Eddington, Dartmouth and Ironwood Courts. This is yearly maintenance that will prevent power outages but may cause
some landscaping disturbance and minor lawn damage in the short term. Additional details can be found on the township
website.
2. Natural Gas Contract: Highland Lakes has secured one of the best, if not the best, natural gas contracts that it has ever
signed. Due to the nature of our buildings having one meter as opposed to separate meters for every condominium, we have
been able to enjoy bulk or volume pricing from suppliers. Over the years, Consumers Energy has charged very high rates, because they were the only provider out there. With the deregulation of the natural gas market, bulk supplying competitors set
the stage for price wars, and instead of using Consumers Energy which charges a “floating” monthly rate, we turned to bulk
suppliers of natural gas that provide fixed rate contracts over a certain term. So for instance, since Consumers charges a variable rate, they may charge $2.85 per unit of natural gas, but the next month, it may be $3.25. Over the course of a year, these
price fluctuations have ranged from $2.85 to $5.15 per unit. With an unstable market over the last few years, we were locked
in with Volunteer Energy at $4.69 for a fixed two year term, but then the price of oil dropped tremendously and the price of
natural gas soon followed. Remember that our natural gas budget is based on this contractual number and it was set accordingly. Recently there has been a huge surplus in natural gas, to the extent that oil producing countries have scaled back their
production to try and increase the market price, but at the same time, others are flooding the market with oil bringing costs
lower still. We had 6 months to go on our current contract, when we saw the price of natural gas hit an all time low. Backing
out of the agreement at 6 months or less carries a $20,000 cancelation fee, but it was the very same company that was willing
to offer us a new deal based on the extremely low market rate. Although we still had to pay the breakage fee, we locked in
at $2.89 per unit (McF) of natural gas. This contract is for another two-year fixed term. The day after we signed, the market
price jumped by 20 cents, so the Board and management struck the deal at its lowest point. Highland Lakes typically uses
between 55,000 and 70,000 units of natural gas, which is a huge amount and qualifies us for aggressive solicitation between
competitors. In layman’s terms, if we use our “average” amount of gas over the next two years, the Association will save about
$83,000 this year and $105,000 next year. This will have obvious budgetary ramifications and is just another example of our
bidding process to bring you the lowest possible rates.
3. Recycle Dumpster: The recycling container is dumped every Monday and Thursday. We are pleased to report that more
and more residents are using it, to the point that it is almost overflowing by the pick-up day. We may have to schedule a third
pick-up during the week. If the dumpster is full when you try to leave things, remember that the top can be opened, if you
are tall enough, and there is plenty of space. Since residents use the sliding door, the sides fill up quickly and they often leave
bags next to the dumpster making it look bad and the truck will sometimes set the dumpster back down on the bags.
4. DTE Cable / Lawn Restoration: Last year, DTE started to replace sections of cable throughout the property, which is intended to prevent power outages and replace the original equipment underground. We are well aware of the various locations
throughout the site that need lawn restoration, especially those in high visibility areas such as Neptune and across from Inlet
Court. I have been told that repairs will start within a month and they were waiting for favorable weather conditions to allow
the grass seed to take hold. DTE is also working along Lake Success this year, and although our maintenance staff has advised
them of the underground wiring connecting our street lights, it’s inevitable that one or two wires always get cut. Street lights
in the vicinity of Hayes, Neptune and Windsor had issues this year, but we were unsure if it was the boring equipment or
expansion and contraction of the old wire. The streetlights are a priority for the staff and should all be working now. Our
staff periodically drives the site at night, taking inventory of problem areas. If you notice a non-working street light and have
reason to believe that we have not, please report it to the office staff.
5. Porch Repairs / Condition: In the summer of 2013, I took inventory of all of the crumbling porches around the property
and I had a list of contractors that residents could call and maybe take advantage of bulk pricing if any given contractor had
several homes that they could repair at once. We achieved a good deal of success and the worst porches on the property were
repaired, but we still have some problem areas. The porch stoop, including the top slab, is limited common element and the
responsibility of the resident to maintain. The mortar between the bricks can turn to sand after 40 years and if the brick foundation fails, the porch slab above it can snap or crumble. This is not only a preventative maintenance item to save you money
14

MANAGEMENT REPORT
TO: Board of Directors, Co-Owners
FROM: Joe Poma, Property Manager

RE: Property Manager’s Report
DATE: March 21, 2016

in the long term, but also a requirement to maintain the visual appeal of the property. Usually, the resident with a porch in
need of repair is never the one to notice it; the neighbor who is conscious about their own home always does. The Association does not recommend any specific contractor, but I may be able to help in locating one for those that are interested. In a
worst case scenario, if the porch becomes so deteriorated as to require immediate attention, the Association will contract to
have the work done and back-bill the resident for the services. Since spring is upon us, make sure that you inspect the exterior of your home, including the porch and all landscaping areas around the perimeter that could use attention. It was very
apparent over the last few years that the homes with deteriorated brickwork were very often the ones that had pest control
problems; chipmunks, moles, skunks, etc.
6. Swan Lake Aerator: Over the years, the residents along Swan Harbor Lake (Lehigh Lane, Lagoon, Leidel and Lilac) have had
to deal with weeds off of the shoreline and especially around the dock area. We have resorted to both chemical treatment and
cutting, but each year, they come back. Crystal Lake had this problem years ago, and it was discovered that fountain aerators prevented weed growth because the water was not left to stagnate and the currents kept weeds from taking hold at the
bottom. These fountains coupled with dye treatments have proven to be a good defense. We never considered a fountain for
Swan Harbor due to the size of the lake and didn’t feel that it would work with all of that open water. This year, we decided to
try it and will be placing a fountain right beyond the swimming beach in slightly deeper water. Residents should really enjoy
the view that it brings and hopefully it will work to prevent weed growth. This spring, the maintenance staff will be trenching
and installing a 220V electric line from the common electric feed in Leidel Court and an electrician will be installing a service
box and meter at the lakeshore. Once this is done, the fountain will be plugged in and should be ready to go. Details will follow, but I’m hoping this will be up and running by summer.
7. Swan Harbor Beach: As a compliment to our beautiful new beach on Swan Lake, the Board voted last year to do some rudimentary landscaping around the retaining walls there, which is resistant to sun damage and requires very little watering. The
maintenance staff also installed two electrical service posts at the lakeshore, to provide power for a small extraction pump
which will draw water from the lake to water the grass and landscaping around the beach.
8. Silver Spring Seawall: I have reached out to Seaside Seawalls, Inc. (the company that installed our seawall extension at the
Serenity Garden) and requested a quote for the repair of the seawall between Madison and Viewpoint Courts. The hillside is
eroding under the wall and pushing it upward. This will be resolved as soon as possible.

15

Pancake Breakfast
& Easter Egg Hunt

16

Submitted by Michelle Todorov & Sandy Nolan
17

Highland Lakes Community
GARAGE SALE
DATE: Saturday May 14
TIME: 9:00 a.m. until 3:00 p.m.
(rain date May 21)
All Co-Owners are responsible for putting up their
own signs. Tables will be available at the
Clubhouse for those wishing to set up in the
parking lot, on a first come/first serve basis.
Questions? Contact the clubhouse at 248-349-4006

18

Please join us on
Wednesday, May 18th
at 6:30 p.m.
for a WELCOME to

Highland Lakes Meet
Your Neighbor Event
taking place at the Clubhouse
Community Representatives
Will Be Available
To Answer Questions

Refreshments and
Finger Foods
Will Be Provided

We encourage all residents
NEW and EXISTING to attend.
19

Interested in being part
of our Community
Garden?
This will be our 7th year of this
successful project, and if you are interested in
joining our farm team, we
hope to see you on this date!
Please contact
Diane Pittaway
at 248-347-1078 or
[email protected]
if you plan to be a community
gardener this year.
20

Chicken and Strawberry Salad
Dressing:
1 Tbsp sugar
2 Tbsps red wine
1 Tbsp water
⅛ tsp salt
⅛ tsp freshly ground black pepper
2 Tbsps extra-virgin olive oil

Salad:
4 cups torn romaine lettuce
4 cups arugula
2 cups quartered strawberries
⅓ cup vertically sliced red onion
12 oz of skinless, boneless
rotisserie chicken breast, sliced
2 Tbsps unsalted cashews, halved
½ cup (2 oz.) crumbled blue cheese

1. To prepare dressing, combine first 5 ingredients in a small bowl. Gradually drizzle in oil, constantly
with a whisk.
2. To prepare salad, combine romaine and next 4 ingredients (through chicken) in a bowl; toss gently.
Place about 2 cups chicken mixture on each of 4 plates. Top each serving with 1½ tsps cashews and 2
tbsps cheese. Drizzle about 4 tsps dressing over each serving.

Submitted by Joy Gaskin

Lemony Asparagus and Chicken Pasta Toss
2 cans (14-oz.) reduced-sodium chicken broth
12 oz. frozen boneless, skinless chicken breasts
8 oz. uncooked short pasta (rotini or penne)
½ lb. asparagus, trimmed and cut into bite-size pieces

½ cup prepared pesto
2 Tbsps fresh lemon juice
⅛ tsp salt
⅛ tsp freshly ground black pepper

1. In a deep skillet or Dutch oven, bring broth to a boil over high heat. Add chicken. Return to a boil, reduce
the heat, cover and simmer 22 minutes. Remove chicken from broth, cool and shred.
2. Increase heat to high and bring broth to a boil. Stir in pasta and continue to cook, uncovered, 6 minutes.
Add asparagus and cook 2 minutes or until asparagus is tender.
3. Drain pasta mixture and return to skillet. Add shredded chicken, pesto, lemon juice, salt and pepper;
toss gently.
Submitted by Joy Gaskin
21

Guinevere Eatmon, IBO

248.956.0131
248.924.2883

HOME • BEAUTY • NUTRITION
Nutrition, Skin & Color
Consultation by
Appointment

[email protected]

•On site service to home or work for residential and
commercial vehicles.
•We are an approved vendor with every insurance
company, network & fleet management and we can
assist with claims.
•Specializing for over 15 years in windshield
replacement & chip repair.

www.amway.com/guineatmon

www.flashglassauto.com

248-446-1234
South Lyon, MI

SPECIAL
40 Gallon Gas
Water Heater

Installed for $790

I.S.E.

Garbage Disposal
Installed for $235

“Family Owned”
Est. 1898

O’BRIEN
SULLIVAN

FUNERALS, CREMATIONS, PREARRANGEMENTS
41555 Grand River Ave, Novi, MI 48375-1822

248-348-1800

www.obriensullivanfuneralhome.com

Offering Pre Need & Aftercare Programs
22

Offering the best makeup and beautification
products for every skin type and age.
YOUR INDEPENDENT BEAUTY CONSULTANT

www.youravon.com/geatmon
[email protected]

www.marykay.com/geatmon
[email protected]

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!

Mary Ketelhut
734-634-8128

Real Estate One Northville / Novi
41430 Grand River Ave, Suite D
Novi, MI 48375

“The Customer Experience is
the Heart of My Business”

John O’Brien
248-756-0414

“Nobody works harder for
satisfactory results.”

Reminder:
New residents please come in
to the Clubhouse and get your
picture ID’s taken.
Residents who already own an ID
please bring it to the Clubhouse for
this years sticker.
23

FURNACE TUNE-UP SPECIAL!

WE SERVICE ALL BRANDS INCLUDING

Heating & air Conditioning
WE OFFER SENIOR DISCOUNTS

24 HOUR

734-237-1249

HarrimanHeating.com

EMERGENCY SERVICE
Financing 0% for 36 months

ROGER THE HANDYMAN
• Need a light in
that closet?

LICENSED & INSURED • 23 YEARS EXPERIENCE • GUARANTEED WORK
WE REPAIR ANY WOOD, VINYL OR ALUMINUM WINDOW
SPECIALIZING IN BROKEN, SEALFAILED & FOGGED

(734) 379-5355

• Does the door
stick?

OR

(734) 422-5355

NO JOB
TOO SMALL...
WE BID THEM ALL!

• Association Discounts
• 10 Year Warranty on Glass
• “Low E” Reflective & Tinted Glass
• Lowest Prices in Town
• Parts Available for Most Windows
• Completed Promptly & Efficiently
• Two Weeks Service on Most Jobs

Painting, Carpentry, Electrical,
Plumbing, Drywall & Plaster Repair,
Wallpaper Removal, Leaky Fixtures,
Wax Rings, Install Ceiling Fans.

NO TRIP
CHARGE
FREE
ESTIMATE

DO YOUR WINDOWS HAVE...





Bonded and Insured

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

CALL NOW!

CALL FOR YOUR FREE ESTIMATE!

1-888-391-4040
Sharon: 734-732-2066

R & H GLAZING, INC.

RICK THE WINDOW DOC!

(734) 379-5355

roger: 734-732-0771
24

Highland Lakes Women’s Club
SAVE THE DATE:

The next get-together will be
April 7, 2016 at noon

Station 885
885 Starkweather, Plymouth, MI
Arranged by Kathleen Connor

May 5, 2016 at noon

EG Nicks
500 Forest Ave, Plymouth, MI
Arranged by Judy Whelan

For further information about the Highland Lakes Women’s Club, you can contact
Peggy Zonca (248)348-5283 or [email protected]

All adult female residents of Highland Lakes are invited to meet with us!
Since 1954

Carpet | Tile | Hardwood | Sanding & Refinishing | Laminate | Vinyl

HEATING and
COOLING CO.

PROMPT EFFICIENT SALES
SERVICE & INSTALLATION
Service & Parts for Most Makes
Central Air Conditioning
Electric Air Cleaners
Power Humidifiers
Duct Fabrication

Maintenance Contracts
Electrical Wiring & Repair
Custom Sheet Metal
Boilers/ Water Heaters

Visit Our Showrooms…See Before You Buy
Open Daily 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Sat 9:00 AM – 2:00 PM

(248) 756-3418
[email protected]
Michael Mercer

Calls Taken 24 Hours

President

(248) 476-7022

THE FLOORING
STORE AT YOUR
DOOR!

19140 Farmington Road at 7 Mile • Livonia

25

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

Anchor

Tracey Green........................321-4614

Althea

Sue Tocco............................ 348-3396

Amboy

Brad Todorov.........................380-1611

Andover

Pam Takacs...........................374-0864

Aqueduct

Frank Eisenhauer..................348-9650

Bryn Mawr

Robert Gorczyca............734-751-7828

Dartmouth

Sue Misiulis...........................344-4949

Dearborn

Jim Delaney..........................348-6554

Dorothy Gay

Renee Morris.................810-334-1434

Eddington

David Duey....................586-996-2098

Farragut

Lorraine Scully (B 89 & 90)......344-8703
Janice Booher (B 88).............344-4229

Hayes

D. & G. Loudy (B 30, 31 & 32)
.................................................349-3308
Steve Sapp (B 28 & 29)
......................................734-512-6890

Inlet

Betsy Byrne.........................207-6221

Irongate

Nancy Schneider.................797-0853

Ironwood

Esther Allison.................... 880-1673

Itham

Bob Rudolph......................924-2600

Juliet

Neptune

Lucy Curtis (B33)............349-0301
Robert Nulty
(B34, B35).......................349-0511

Norwood

Stan Savitskie .............. 946-4338

Eric Behrmann............734-934-0621

Kenyon

Oakland

Earl Smith.......................349-6478

Elizabeth Dombles..............Unlisted



Old Bridge

Linda Tomica.................. 349-6107

Lagoon

Marchelle Brotz...........517-525-1661

Lehigh

Pond

Diane Pittaway............... 347-1078

Frances Moore..................727-3570

Lehigh Lane

Queen Anne

Kathy Baldwin................974-6688

Dianne Hartman................229-3884

Leidel

Richards

Barbara Adams.................982-8247

Martin Tingstad .............344-4928


Lilac

Beverly Brenner.............348-2982

Barbara Evans..................348-3087

Longwood

Sandy

Savoy

Mary Kraska...........313-268-8516

Jim O’Connor....................344-6600

Lyric

Schoolhouse

Peggy Zonca..................348-5283

Minda Commire................701-0004



Madison

Seabrook

Andrea Valle...................819-0704

Carolyn Toyer....................348-9745

Malvern

Valiant

Ilio Alessandri ................ 449-6959

Judy Whelan (B 45)..........921-2125
Unlisted (B 46)

Mann

Liz Thuss................734-558-0220

Mariner

Douglas Perrin....................Unlisted

26

View Point

Stanley Roberson..........596-1239

Whitman

Frank Jensen............... 880-2011

Windsor

Tom Werner...................349-4459

protecting communities and
associations across Michigan.
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

remiere
P

Rochester

612 W. University
Rochester, MI 48307

COMMERCIAL GROUP

248-879-3100

New Hudson

56849 Grand River, Ste. 12
New Hudson, MI 48165

248-257-5556

Merrick Maris, III

Brandon Brown

Rich Rossell

586-752-4861

248-257-5556

248-879-3100

[email protected]

[email protected]

27

[email protected]

April 2016
SUNDAY

MONDAY

TUESDAY

WEDNESDAY

THURSDAY

FRIDAY

SATURDAY

1

2

7
Yoga 9:30 a.m.
Women’s Club
12:00 p.m.
Yoga 6:00 p.m.

8

9

14

15

16

Euchre Club
7:00 p.m.

April Showers Bring May Flowers
3

4

5
Yoga
9:30
a.m..
Ladies
Clubhouse
Pinochle
Comm. 7:00 p.m.
Pool Comittee
12:30 p.m.

6

5:30 p.m.

10

11

Court Liaison
Comm. 7:00 P.M.

12

13

Grounds Comm. Yoga 9:30 a.m. Ladies
Pinochle
7:00 p.m.
Engineering
12:30 p.m.
Comm. 3:00 p.m.
Ecology Comm.
7:00 p.m.

17

18

19

Yoga 9:30 a.m. Euchre Club
7:00 p.m.
& 6:00 p.m.
Election
Resumes Due
by 5:00 p.m.

20

21
Yoga 9:30 a.m.
& 6:00 p.m.

26
Yoga 9:30 a.m. Ladies
Pinochle
12:30 p.m.

27

28

3
Yoga
9:30
a.m..
Ladies
Clubhouse
Comm. 7:00 p.m.
Pinochle
12:30 p.m.

4

Finance Comm.
Yoga 9:30 a.m.
6:00 p.m.

Candidate’s
Night - 7:00 p.m.

Ladies
Pinochle
12:30 p.m.

22

23

Board Meeting
7:30 p.m.
24

1

25

2

29

30

6

7

Yoga 9:30 a.m. Euchre Club
7:00 p.m.
& 6:00 p.m.
.
5
Yoga 9:30 a.m.
Women’s Club
12:00 p.m.
Yoga 6:00 p.m.
Court Liaison
Comm. 7:00 P.M.

CLUBHOUSE WINTER HOURS
M o n d a y - F r i d a y..........9 : 0 0 a .m. - 9 : 0 0 p .m.
Satur day. .. . . . . . . . n o o n - 9 : 0 0 p .m.

Su n d a y.............n o o n - 5 p.m.

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