Update on neighborhood association dues payments: In a word, thanks

The Eagle Nest Board of Directors would like to thank all the residents who paid their dues on time this year. We finished the collection cycle with all but six accounts paid in full, four of which were turned over to our legal counsel for collection after repeated attempts to communicate with the delinquent residents.

In all, 13 of our neighborhood's 419 lots carry a balance at this writing:
> four lots turned over for collection (Two of these four accounts have failed to pay dues the past years, and as a result have incurred hefty court costs and legal collection fees.)
> one lot made partial payment
> five lots have minor balances (mostly late fees)
> three lots were improperly process during sale transactions

Through it all, Secretary/Bookkeeper Chris'e Van Meter has done an excellent job tracking the accounts and keeping the Board apprised of our financials. The Board appreciates Chris'e's hard work, attention to detail and persistence. The neighborhood is lucky to have her working on all our behalf!

Suffice to say, a lack of funds affects the quality of services and amenities provided, as well as jeopardizes the $50 homeowner credit the Board has extended to residents the past three years. We couldn't make some of the much needed upgrades -- like the new playground or pool bathroom remodeling project -- without ample funds.

If you're new to the neighborhood (or need reminding), please mark these key months on your calendar so you can plan your finances and required dues payments accordingly:
> January -- annual dues statements are mailed
> May -- payments are due in full
> June -- dues are late

If you have any questions about the dues process, feel free to contact Secretary/Bookkeeper Chris'e Van Meter or any Board member. And thanks again for everyone's cooperation. Have a great summer!

-- Submitted by Scott Thien

p.s. -- Did you know? The Articles of Incorporation actually give the Board legal authority to publicly name all delinquent accounts so neighbors can see who is late. Boards of late, however, have disregarded that responsibility, largely in the interest of neighborly respect. It is an interesting provision, however. How it reads (Article II, Section 7) The Board shall have the power "to publish the names of members who shall fail to pay the charges made by the Association; to sue to collect any of such charges as are not paid; and to foreclose any such lien."