[Honews] Notice regarding 2008 Dues

[Webmaster - HOHA]

   	We  --- the HOA --are in a bit of a pickle it seems.  One of our
members has raised an objection to our use of an absentee ballot last Spring
to conduct new business.  She proposes that the use of an absentee ballot is
not allowed per our Covenants.  Many months later & legal fees accrued to
investigate this claim, we find ourselves back to square one as if the
business of last year never happened! UGH

	 We will be re-voting on the assessment/increased dues/covenant
changes at the next HOA neighborhood wide meeting scheduled for Thursday,
February 21st, 2008 at 7 PM in the REMC Community Room.  If you find that
you will be unable to attend, you can designate a proxy to vote in your
stead.  Proxies are a valid aid used to obtain quorum per the Covenants.  I
encourage you to pick a fellow homeowner who will be attending the meeting,
with whom you trust,  and will vote on the matters per your instruction.
The proxy form does not permit a separate issue by issue vote as the
absentee ballot used in the Spring.  Please be explicit in discussing your
wishes with this proxy designee.

	Please watch your mail very soon for this proxy form and  legal
explanation letter from our lawyer.  We have delayed sending out an
end-of-year statement pending this matter.  It unfortunately has ran well
into the new year and will undoubtedly cause much confusion ---- especially
regarding dues.

	As it stands right now, annual dues are $100 and due by the 30th of
the January.  If you have already paid the increased dues of $150, we thank
you.  You have 2 options ---- you can request a refund for the  
$50 or leave it posted on your account as a credit in anticipation of the
matter being passed in the affirmative at the next meeting.

	As far as the $25 special assessment from 2007, we have collected
90% of these funds.   We have decided to set aside these monies from our
checking account to issue refunds in case they are requested. The few
homeowners who were honest and paid the $12.50 penalty fee will have that
fee refunded now.  The scarce 13 homeowners, who have neglected to pay this
fee, & anyone who requests a refund will be billed once this matter is
passed.

	Regarding the changes to the Covenants, all of the updates will be
re-submitted for approval with one more addition  ----- The use of an
absentee ballot as a valid form of obtaining quorum.

	You may notice the use of a positive tone throughout the above
issues.  All 3 matters of business were passed in the affirmative and we do
not expect a different outcome in February.  This Board thanks the vast
majority of our neighbors for their unyielding support and look forward to
finally moving on with these matters.   We apologize for any confusion and
want to reaffirm to all that we are volunteering our time and working very
diligently to preserve our neighborhood's future & esteemed status within
the area. We hope 2008  
is prosperous for all and look forward to seeing at least 78 homeowners
represented in person or proxy at the next meeting!

		Officers of Homeowners Association

*** For now, the Association's website has been updated with a PayPal button
to allow the paying of either $100 or $150. Several residents have taken
advantage of this online payment method which allows payment via credit
card. Check it out at www.highlandoaks.com.