June - July Newsletter

 

STRATFORD MANOR NEWSLETTER

June / July 2022 Edition

PRESIDENT'S CORNER:

    I don't have to tell you about the terrible inflation, manpower and supply chain problems our country is now experiencing.  It should be no surprise to any of you that these same issues have had a negative impact on our community's HOA as well.

    The price of everything is going up, and that is making it difficult for your Board to maintain a balanced budget.  With at least one large contract due to expire at the end of this year, the challenge of managing our expenses is likely to get tougher before it gets better.

    Supply chain problems are sometimes global in scope, as in the case of our paving contractor who was scheduled to do some remedial paving on our Kenilworth lot earlier this year.  He is not able to get a key ingredient from his regular supplier - a bombed-out factory in Ukraine - but offered to look for another source at twice the price.  The Board chose to wait until the contractor's supplier is somehow able to resume shipments.

    A similar problem is affecting our community's street lamps.  When a lamp went out in the rear section of Wellesley, our electrician determined that the ballast had gone bad.  Unfortunately, ballasts for our old-style lights are currently hard to find.  So that corner of Wellesley has remained dark for several weeks while we wait for repair parts.

    At the same time, our landscaping service is falling behind schedule because they are unable to find enough qualified workers - the same problem that has been affecting restaurants and other retailers for months.  So if a common area near you hasn't yet been mulched for the spring, or debris hasn't yet been picked up, be patient.  Year-Round Landscaping will get to it as soon as they can.

    As you know, the Association's business never stops.  You will see elsewhere in this newsletter that we did manage to complete repairs to our perimeter fencing, resolve a serious drainage issue, repair some curbs and gutters, and remove a large tree that endangered nearby townhomes.

    As always, thank you for  your understanding and continued support. 

                (John Gullett, President)

-------------------------------------------------------------------

SPRING INSPECTIONS GO WELL:  OWNERS BUSY MAKING REPAIRS

    Abbitt Management's annual inspections were completed in one day this spring, and since then numerous homeowners have been busy addressing the items noted on their individual inspection reports.

    "We identified 249 'reminder' items that require some sort of repair, cleaning or repainting, " said John Gullett, SMA president, "but we uncovered only a handful of architectural violations (mostly mismatched colors on doors and shutters).

    Only 90 owners were cited for one or more infractions, with the most frequent issues being clogged gutters, dirty siding, and damaged trim boards.  This is down from last year's 95 cited owners and 2020's 126.

    "This suggests to me that our owners are being very cooperative when it comes to ensuring that the community retains its unique beauty and well-maintained look," said Mr. Gullett.

    Mr. Gullett and committee members Madoline Wallace and Linda White accompanied the Abbitt inspector.  "This marks the third year that Abbitt has conducted these inspections," he said, "which I think contributed to the inspections' improved efficiency."

    He also noted that the inspector - and committee members - focused on identifying practical and important issues, rather than ones that are more obscure and have little or no impact on the community.

    Among the more unusual issues noted were missing house numbers on one house and an old bird's nest under the roof overhang on another.  Surprisingly, several chimneys were showing a white substance on their brick  - a sign of "efflorescence", or moisture moving through the masonry.  "This is the sort of thing that we urge the owners to have checked by a professional," said Mr. Gullett.  "It could do serious damage over time."

    The committee heard from a few owners who said there were errors on their inspection reports.  "We try to be as careful as possible to make these reports 100 percent accurate,"  Mr. Gullett said, "but the comprehensive inspections are by necessity very fast.  Occasionally, mistakes are made - especially when it involves something near the back of the unit, where the house numbers can't be seen."  He suggested owners report any errors to Abbitt so the record can be corrected. 

-------------------------------------------------------------

My First Inspection Tour!    (By Madoline Wallace, Member, Architectural Control Committee)

    I recently had the opportunity to join our president and the representative from Abbitt Management for the annual property inspection tour.  It was interesting and informative.  For the first time, I looked at each property as an individual dwelling as opposed to looking at it as part of a building.  It was fascinating to see how uniquely individual each unit is depending on landscaping, fence types etc.

    In addition, I learned a lot about property maintenance.  I learned what to look for and where to look.  I learned which things are purely cosmetic and which things would require a minor repair if handled now, but if ignored could turn into a much more expensive repair down the road.  I learned that because we looked very carefully at each property, our aim was to pinpoint those items that might typically be missed during daily comings and goings.  We wanted to inform homeowners to small problems before that turned into BIG problems.  I will certainly look at my own unit with a much more informed eye from now on.

------------------------------------------------

KNOW YOUR HOA RULES:      UNDERSTANDING PAINT GUIDELINES

Editor's Note:  The prospective new Stratford Manor owner is given mountains of information about living under the Association's rules, but seldom takes the time to read it all.  This can lead to a shocking revelation  at a later date, when the owner is challenged about a change in the home's exterior that doesn't meet the HOA's specifications.  To help avoid such unpleasant surprises, our Newsletter is publishing examples of the more common rules.  Additional information is available on the SMA's website  @stratfordmanor.blogspot.com.

    Three Stratford Manor homeowners recently received notices of an architectural violation regarding "mismatched doors and shutters" as part of  their spring inspection report - a problem that could have been avoided if they (or the previous owners) had familiarized themselves with the rules regarding exterior paint colors.  "Mismatched" means that the color of the door isn't the same as that of the shutters, or vice-versa.  The common defense is that "it was that way when we moved in".  Not a solid argument, but one that the Board takes into consideration when confronting the offender. 

        But there are other rules that an owner needs to keep in mind when deciding it's time to give their exterior a fresh coat of paint.  For example, did you know that you need to choose your exterior colors from 22 Colonial Williamsburg colors selected by the Architectural Control Committee in its comprehensive review of our HOA's paint policies in 2021?  The list - - found on our website - - includes a variety of grays, blues, browns, greens, whites, blacks and reds.  In short, something for everyone.

    Why these 22?  Because they are classic colonial paints, reflecting those found in early American design.  The founders of our community wanted to preserve the beauty of our colonial architecture, which meant establishing rules limiting paint colors to those used in colonial times.  Originally, each home was assigned specific colors, but the rule was relaxed as owners asked for more flexibility in creating a new but acceptable look for their homes.

    If you are planning to repaint any part of your exterior using the same SMA color you currently have, feel free to do so.  But if you want a change, the Association asks that you fill out an Architectural Review Application (downloadable from our website) and submit it to Abbitt Management.  The committee and the Board will review the request and respond with an approval or request for additional information in short order.

    There are many other rules that you need to take into consideration when considering a color change, all of which are spelled out in the "Exterior Painting Guide" on our website, under "Architectural Compliance".  Also remember that you may purchase your paint at a store of your choosing.  Sherwin- Williams on Oyster Point Road offers Stratford Manor owners deep discounts.

---------------------------------------------------

TRASH PICK UP SCHEDULE:   *

June 21 - Recycling, bulk pickup & trash;  June 28 - Trash only

July 6 - Recycling, bulk pickup & trash (Wednesday pickup due to holiday); July 12 - Trash only;   July 19 - Recycling, bulk pickup & trash;  July 26 - Trash only

August 2 - Recycling, bulk pickup & trash; August - 9 - Trash only

* Trash and recycling receptacles should be curbside no earlier than 3 p.m. the day before the scheduled pickup.  Bulk trash may be out the weekend before the scheduled collection.

---------------------------------------

EXTENSIVE FENCE REPAIRS ADD TO INFRASTRUCTURE COSTS:

    A stark reminder of the rising costs of maintaining Stratford Manor's infrastructure came about in May, as "routine" repairs to our perimeter fence on Kenilworth Drive turned out to be a much larger problem.

    Nancy Allen, a member of the Infrastructure Committee, responded to a report from a homeowner of a collapsing fence on the west side of Kenilworth. "It looked fine one day and then all of a sudden it tipped over," said Ms. Allen.  Rosenbaum Fencing, the SMA's long-standing fence repair contractor, came out and diagnosed the problem as the rotting of underground portions of the wooden posts.

    "The committee asked the contractor to inspect the rest of our perimeter fencing," said Ms. Alen, "since we have had so many issues with it in recent years."  In mid-2019, Rosenbaum made major repairs to a large section of fencing behind Sloane Place that was in danger of collapsing.  Additional repairs were made to the same stretch of fencing in 2020.

    The major source of much-needed repairs are the original wooden fence posts that have rotted over time.  The solution, short of replacing entire sections of the fence, is to install new posts next to the old ones and anchor them in concrete.  This time, Rosenbaum had to install 22 fence posts and repair or replace several fence pickets.  The total cost:  just under $5,000.  "This should hold us for a while," said Ms. Allen. "But eventually we will need to replace our perimeter fence with something more lasting."

    In other infrastructure news, the committee managed to eliminate a drainage issue near 197 Wellesley by having a contractor run piping and outlet valves under the perimeter fence to into a public drainage ditch.  "This was a perplexing problem," said Bob Lucas, chairman of the Infrastructure Committee.  "But we finally found a contractor who was creative enough to solve the problem at a reasonable cost (about $1,800)."

    Basic Construction's sub-contractor completed its concrete repair work on Kenilworth and Sloane Place, and the SMA's arborist removed a large, dead tree near 147 Kenilworth.  "The tree, which was the victim of carpenter ants, was large enough to cause a lot of damage if it fell," said Mr. Lucas, "so we are grateful that a homeowner reported it to us".

---------------------------------------------------

STRATFORD MANOR NEWS BRIEFS:

Assessment payment notices mailed - Abbitt Management has mailed mid-year assessment statements to all Stratford Manor owners, with a due date of July 1.  At the SMA Board's request there is a 30-day grace period, which means you have until July 31 to pay the amount due.  A late fee will be applied on August 1.

Summer is in the air - and so is the smell of dog waste!  Most dog walkers in our community are considerate enough to pick up after their pet relieves itself in the common area.  But a bigger problem exists when owners let their pets defecate on their patio and leaves it for later clean up.  "It's that time of year when a lot of us want to sit out back and enjoy the smells of summer," said SMA President John Gullett.  "When the dog poop aroma from someone's patio reaches a neighbor's, it definitely ruins the moment.  Please be considerate and promptly dispose of your dog's waste, no matter where it occurs."  He added that "poop bags" are available free from stations maintained by a volunteer owner.

Reminder - Curb Parking is Not Allowed:  Some Board members remarked recently that there are times when cars are regularly parked along the curb on our roads and medians.  Owners need to remind their guests that these cars will be towed if a neighbor reports it.  Ask t hem to park on nearby public streets.

---------------------------------------------------

2022 BOARED MEETING DATES:

August 10, 2022                October 12, 2022            December 14, 2022

(Annual Meeting is scheduled for November 16, 2022 at 7:00 p.m.)

Meetings are on Wednesdays, and start at 5:30 p.m.  Currently meetings are held virtually via Zoom.  The link for the meeting is emailed to owners prior to the meeting date, if Abbitt has your email address.  To add your email address, email it to associations@abbitt.com.

Everyone is welcome to attend the Board meetings.  We need your support to ensure that Stratford Manor continues to be a beautiful community.

    

 

    

    

    

April / May Newsletter Edition

 

Stratford Manor Newsletter

April-May 2022 Edition

 President's Corner:

With the arrival of spring, our Association’s activities are back in full swing. The landscapers have been busy preparing common areas for new growth, azaleas are in full bloom—a brief but delightful treat—and the Board’s committees have resumed their work after the winter hiatus. Among other things, we are engaging with various contractors to get repair work done deemed essential to maintaining a viable community. 

As usual, this newsletter covers the latest in current Association activities and other news of interest. This reflects our commitment to full transparency. In short, we tell you what we are working on and what we hope to accomplish---even if it shines a light on our failures. 

Despite this, I was startled recently by an owner who claimed that “the Board doesn’t do anything but collect dues.” I accepted the challenge, did my research and wrote back to this unhappy owner with the following selected expense items: We spent $32,590 last year on landscaping; $34,973 on selected sidewalk repairs; $16,495 on tree removal and trimming; and-- in early 2022--$3,900 to quickly remove snow from our roads and sidewalks after a storm. 

I thought I had made a good case for where most of the assessment dollars go. But this particular owner was undeterred, arguing that the City will pay for our sidewalks and the other items I mentioned.

If only it were so! We are on private property, and must pay our own way. The lesson I learned from that exchange is that the Board must continually look for ways to better inform all owners of what we are doing to help the community. Related to that incident, I also heard from an owner who said we don’t remind them enough about what rules they should be following as owners in Stratford Manor.  He has a point. Beginning with this issue, we will be tackling this concern with a feature called “Know Your HOA Rules”.

 Enjoy your sprin                                                       --John Gullett, President 

Safe trees make good neighbors; a tale with a happy ending:

 Investigating an owner’s concern  about dead trees on the other side of our perimeter fence facing Deep Creek road,  President John Gullett and Landscaping Chair Nancy Allen found themselves fighting underbrush in a thickly wooded lot. What they discovered were two large trees that were old and severely weakened,  looking as if a stiff breeze might blow them down-- in the direction of our perimeter fence and two Wellesley townhomes just inside. 

“The first thing we had to do was determine who owned the property,” said Ms. Allen. “It sits across the street from the United Methodist Church, but it is undeveloped.”  A few phone calls revealed that the Masonic Transportation Lodge No. 337  owns it but doesn’t use it. “I spoke with a representative of the Lodge (Mr. William Gorman) who asked for photos of the trees in question,” said Mr. Gullett, “since they never go into those woods. We sent photos to him and he said he would forward our concern to the appropriate leaders of the organization. The next thing we knew, the trees—plus a third one they identified as also dead—were being toppled by an arborist they promptly hired.” 

 “The Lodge people were very neighborly,” said Ms. Allen, “and did the right thing without hesitation. We offered them many thanks for their quick action.” 

Mr. Gullett added that he was glad that a Stratford Manor owner alerted him to the situation. “This was a nasty accident waiting to happen. We are grateful for the heads up from a caring resident.”<

 

‘Rally’ Event Brings in More Votes for New Declaration:

The Governing Documents Committee resumed its campaign to get two-thirds of Stratford Manor owners to support the Association’s proposed new Declaration on March 26, holding a “Rally for Votes” that produced ten additional votes. “We were excited to get so many votes after a long, winter pause,” said Donna Groller, Committee Chair. “It proved that there are still many owners who are in favor of this resolution but just haven’t taken the time to get their forms notarized.” 

Ms. Groller noted that the Association now has 84 owner votes—just 17 shy of the 101 needed to adopt the new governing document. “We are now in the homestretch, “ she said, “but the remaining votes are the most challenging. Among other things, when owners sell, their votes are null and void. So the longer the campaign is extended, the tougher it becomes to reach our goal.”<

Trash pickup Schedule* 

 April 19—Trash only; April 26-- Recycling, bulk pickup & trash.

May 3—Trash only; May 10— Recycling, bulk pickup & trash; May 17--Trash only.

May 24— Recycling, bulk pickup & trash; June 1—Trash only (Wednesday pickup due to holiday).

June 7—Trash only; June 14— Recycling, bulk pickup & trash. 

*Trash and recycling receptacles should be curbside no earlier than 3 p.m. the day before the scheduled pickup. Bulk trash may be put out the weekend before the scheduled collection. If your container is missed,

call 757-933-2311 within 24 hours.

 

Know Your HOA Rules: New roof requires approval:

The prospective new Stratford Manor owner is given a packet of information about living under the Association’s rules, but seldom takes the time to read it all. This can lead to a shocking revelation at a later date, when the owner is challenged about a new roof or fence that doesn’t meet the HOA’s specifications. To help avoid such ugly surprises, this Newsletter is publishing examples of the more common restrictions, as a service to our owners. 

Thinking about putting a new roof on your town home? It’s a major but inevitable expense, if you live in Stratford Manor long enough.  What’s the first thing you do? You should check your Association’s regulations, which you can find at our website at stratfordmanornn.blogspot.com, under “Architectural Compliance”.  There, you will be reminded that all exterior structural work must be pre-approved. This may come as a shock to some new residents, but any HOA community is governed by a Board of Directors charged by  its owner-members with enforcing standards designed to make the community look its best and help all owners’ property values.

 If an owner violates those restrictions, the Association is required to ask them to correct the violation. Perhaps the most expensive violation to correct is a new roof of the wrong color. Yes, that’s right: all roofs in Stratford Manor are supposed to be comprised of shingles—either three-tab or architectural asphalt—that are “Weathered Wood” in color.  There have been a few cases over the years where the homeowner mistakenly used a different–color shingle, and had to deal with correcting it at their own expense. 

Why “weathered wood”? The original reason has been lost over time, but an educated guess is that the founders of the HOA wanted a color that fit in with their desire for a colonial look, which also dictates the approved exterior paint colors. Regardless, the approved shingle color is an essential part of the overall look of our community. 

That’s why Board members will sometimes stop and ask a homeowner who is having a new roof installed about its color, and whether it has been approved. It may seem like a control freak is interfering with your project, but they are really trying to protect you against a costly mistake.  And that’s why it’s so important to fill out an Architectural Review Application (downloadable on our website), specifying  the kind and color of shingles you need to use. 

That application, which must be submitted to Abbitt Management, is your safety net. If Abbitt and/or the Association’s Board approves, you are safe to do the work as described on your form.<

 

Home inspections about to take place. Get ready!

A reminder to Stratford Manor owners: late April is the time for Abbitt Management to conduct spring inspections of the exterior of your town home. The inspector, accompanied by members of the Association’s Board, will be looking for peeling paint, loose shingles, sagging gutters, and anything else that might detract from the beauty of your home and our community.  For details, check the Architectural Compliance checklist found at our website, stratfordmanornn.blogspot.com.

 

Stratford Manor News Briefs :

Paving plans put on hold—The Association’s plan to repave the entire Stratford Manor community suffered another setback recently when the paving contractor, Basic Construction, concluded that all of the roads and parking lots not yet paved will require expensive soil stabilization. “We received a revised quote from  Basic for the Sloane Place neighborhood,” said Bob Lucas, chairman of the Infrastructure Committee, “and the soil stabilization part doubled the expected cost.” 

After giving the bad news to the Board at its April 13th meeting, Mr. Lucas was authorized to hire a geotechnical engineer to provide guidance in deciding how to proceed with the project. Until that recommendation is received, work on Sloane and other areas with aging asphalt has been put on hold. Meanwhile, previously scheduled concrete repairs on Sloane and Kenilworth will be done within a few weeks, and remedial paving work and restriping on Kenilworth will be done in the near future. 

Reminder: Some items can’t go in bulk waste—The City of Newport News cited the Association recently because a resident put out a large fish tank for curbside pickup—the second time our HOA has been cited in the past few months. “When a Stratford Manor resident puts anything out for bulk-waste pickup that doesn’t qualify,” said President John Gullett, “the City sends us a notice that we have to remove it within so many days or we will be fined. To avoid that, we have to pay someone to remove it and take it to the landfill.” 

He added that it is difficult to find out who put out the illegal item, so the Association is cited as the culprit. “Since it costs us to have the material hauled away,” he said, “I want to remind readers that the truck will not pick up dark trash bags, tires, automotive parts, glass, drywall and paint, among other items.” For a full list of taboo materials, visit the Bulk Waste section of the City’s website.

 

Social Media presence delayed—Social Media Committee Chairperson Fran Hodges told the Board at its April 13th meeting that plans to create a Stratford Manor group on Facebook were delayed by the lack of volunteers to help develop and manage it.  “We know this will be beneficial in our Board’s overall communications efforts with owners,” said Ms. Hodges, “but it takes a huge commitment of time, and all of us on the Board are currently working on more compelling and timely issues.” 

She said the search for additional volunteers, especially those familiar with Facebook or other social media, will continue. If you are interested, send an email to Ms. Hodges at dhodges452@yahoo.com.

 

Landscaping work pays off—The common areas around Stratford Manor are looking great these days, said Landscaping Chairperson Nancy Allen. That’s because the landscaping service, YRL, has been devoting time to preparing for spring by putting down mulch, spraying for weeds, putting down grass seed and fertilizing. “We asked them to get everything looking its best by Easter,” said Ms. Allen, “and they came through like gangbusters. The grassy areas are bright green and the azaleas are blooming beautifully. ”  She also admitted that the plentiful rainfall was a big help.<

2022 BOARD MEETING DATES:

June 8, 2022        August 10, 2022    October 12, 2022        December 14, 2022

Meetings are on Wednesdays, and start at 5:30 p.m.  Currently, meetings are held virtually via Zoom.  The link for the meetings is emailed to owners prior to the meeting date, if Abbitt has their email address.  To add your email address, email it to associations@abbitt.com.

Everyone is welcome to attend the Board Meetings.  We need your support to ensure that Stratford Manor continues to be a beautiful community. 

   

     

 

 

 

 

 

February / March 2022 Newsletter Edition

  President's Corner: 

     As winter begins to fade and we enjoy the occasional warm, sunny days that hint of spring, your Association's Board of Directors is gearing up for another productive year working on your behalf.  Our first Board meeting of the new year was held on Feb. 9, with the virtual meeting format a start reminder that we are still not back to normal.  

     We have all been dealing with the effects of the coronavirus pandemic for two years now, and we are tired of it all. I am hopeful that we will soon be able to resume our normal lives, but I am concerned about the ill effects of a perceived weakening of the usually keen camaraderie and sense of community in Stratford Manor. 

    I am extremely proud of the fact that our Directors have remained committed to volunteering their efforts throughout these tough times.  But it takes more than nine individuals to achieve our common objectives. 

    We have adopted our goals for 2022, and every Board member has a part to play in reaching those in this new year. 

    But we need your help. Many owners who have previously expressed support for the Board’s new Declaration—our proposed  new core governing document—have not followed through by signing the resolution form. 

     We have roughly three-quarters of the required 101 owner votes, but the last 25-30 votes is our biggest challenge. If you agree that restoring our sense of community is important to all owners, then please help us get there by signing the Declaration resolution. If you don’t have the form, see any Board member..                                         

    Meanwhile, our Infrastructure Committee is working closely with our consulting engineer and  contractor to come up with a revised plan to get our parking lots and roads repaved (See story below). 

    Also, a newly formed Social Media Committee is working on creating a Facebook page that will allow our owners to communicate with their neighbors, as well as give the Board immediate feedback on its actions. If you are experienced with Facebook and want to help us create something truly transformative, please email the Board at stratfordnn@gmail.com.

    Regardless of your area of expertise, we could use your help on one or more committees. Please consider joining us to help keep Stratford Manor a terrific place to live.<

    - John Gullett, President 

                                                                                                           

  Next step in repaving may involve drilling test holes:

    Bob Lucas, chairman of the Infrastructure Committee, told Directors at their Feb. 9 Board meeting that the search for a solution to the unstable-soil problem in the community’s parking lots and roads may involve having test holes drilled in several strategic spots to see how extensive the problem may be. 

    “We are waiting for a proposal, including cost estimates, for testing our soil,” said Mr. Lucas. “With luck, we may find that some sections are stable and we can proceed in those areas with repaving. If there are more areas with unstable soil, affordability becomes the main concern. Stay tuned.” 

    The soil issue surfaced late last year when Basic Construction tore up the old asphalt in the parking lots on Kenilworth Drive and upper Wellesley Drive. Some $53,000 of additional expense was needed to stabilize the soil before repaving could be done.<

 

 __________________________________________________________________

 Trash pickup Schedule* 

 Feb. 23—Trash only (Wednesday pickup due to holiday); Mar. 1-- Recycling, bulk pickup & trash.

 Mar. 8—Trash only; Mar. 15— Recycling, bulk pickup & trash.

 Mar. 22—Trash only;  March 29— Recycling, bulk pickup & trash.

 April 5—Trash only; April 12— Recycling, bulk pickup & trash.

*Trash and recycling receptacles should be curbside no earlier than 3 p.m. the day before the scheduled pickup. Bulk trash may be put out the weekend before the scheduled collection. If your

container is missed call 757-933-2311 within 24 hours.

 

Stratford Manor is going modern with Facebook site: 

    The SMA Board  voted  on Feb. 9 to join the social media camp with a first-ever presence on Facebook—a group site that will speed communications to and from the Association and allow owners to talk with each other. 

        Prior to its decision to move ahead with plans for a Facebook Group, the Board elected Frances Hodges chairperson of the newly created Social Media Committee. She then presented the Board with a set of initial guidelines for developing the proposed site. After considerable discussion, she and newly elected committee members Donna Groller and Katie Johnston received the Board’s blessing to proceed with establishing a Facebook group for the Association and its member-owners.  

        “The exact format and contents of this Facebook presence are still in the developmental stage,” said Ms. Hodges. “But we are very excited about the prospects of having an active community site exclusively for Stratford Manor owners. “ She said the site will be private (only Stratford Manor owners allowed in), and managed by Committee members for adherence to content standards. 

     “This will not replace Abbitt’s role in handling complaints about individual owners, ”Ms. Hodges noted, “or any other responsibilities Abbitt currently has. We are merely offering an opportunity for Stratford Manor owners to be able to speak directly to the Board and to fellow owners.” 

    She added that the Committee is looking for additional residents to help develop and manage the SMA’s technology-related services. The Committee will also assume responsibility for the SMA’s web site, which is available for downloading forms, rules, and other information useful to owners. Details of the new program will be announced to owners as soon as they are finalized.<

 

Board affirms plans for spring inspections in April: 

    In case there was any doubt, the SMA Board voted recently to have Abbitt Management conduct its annual spring inspections in April—an opportunity for Stratford Manor owners to find out what exterior repairs need to be done to remain in compliance with Association standards. 

    “In light of the unusual circumstances we find ourselves in these days,” said President John Gullett, “board members discussed whether to skip this annual ritual. But we concluded that the benefits of having these annual inspections far outweigh other issues.” Among other things, he noted, it can inspire many of us to get out of our winter slump and go outside to check on the condition of our roofs, shutters, sheds, and other exterior features,” said Mr. Gullett.  He added that “We all know that keeping our townhomes looking sharp and clean benefits the entire community, and makes us all feel proud to live here—and even helps property values. This spring ritual is essential to making all that possible.” 

    A detailed checklist of what the Abbitt inspectors look for can be found on our website at stratfordmanornn.blogspot.com <

 

Stratford Manor News Briefs: 

    Frequent forecasts of snow keep Stratford Manor’s Storm Watchers busy—Nancy Allen, Landscaping Committee Chair, and Year-Round Landscaping stood guard together through much of January, trying to second guess Mother Nature as one winter storm after another swept up the Eastern U.S. coast. “We started following each storm nearly a week before it was forecast to arrive,” said Ms. Allen, “and usually they would fizzle out a day or two before they were scheduled to hit us. But the snowfall that we got in mid-January was one that called for a full snow-removal crew.”

    Thanks to all that planning, Ms. Allen was able to quickly confer with President John Gullett and reserve YRL’s crew for a quick clean-up--on a Saturday--while most of YRL’s other clients had to wait. It was the first time in four years that the Association had to arrange for snow removal, an infrequency that is a blessing considering the high cost of each clean-up (nearly $4,000 for this one). 

    Still another storm was forecast for the following weekend, but YRL worked closely with the Association up to the last minute—having to rent a Bobcat but cancelling the work crew that Saturday morning after seeing little snow or ice. “Because of the cost, not everyone agreed with our decision to call out the clean-up crew earlier,” said Mr. Gullett. “But we felt an obligation to make it safe for our owners to be able to walk to their cars as soon as possible after the storm ended.” 

    Landscapers prep for spring—For our landscaping service, February is a month in transition. YRL is about to conduct its final leaf pickup of the winter—focusing on cleaning out flower beds and other common areas so that new mulch can be put down. The mulching will continue into March, while YRL is already performing its annual task of cutting back the crepe myrtles and various tall grasses. 

    “Contrary to rumors, the various tall grasses planted on the Sloane island last year are only dormant, not dead,” said Landscaping Committee Chair Nancy Allen. “The only fatality from last year’s drought was the fescue grass. And YRL is going to reseed that area at its own expense.” 

    Reminder: Owners must get approval prior to making exterior changes—If you are thinking of changing the color of your shutters or other elements of your exterior as you go about improving the appearance of your townhome ahead of the spring inspections, remember to submit an Architectural Review Application to Abbitt before proceeding with the work. The same goes for any other exterior work. 

    The application form may be downloaded from our website at stratfordmanornnblogspot.com. While at the website, check out the Exterior Painting Guide, which contains information on such things as when you neeod to seek approval, what colors you can choose from, and where you can get a good deal on paint.<

NOTE:  Next Board Meeting is scheduled for April 13, 2022 at 5:30 p.m.  Meetings are held virtual via Zoom.  All are welcome to attend.

 

 

 

 

 

December 2021/January 2022

President’s Corner  

As the year draws to a close, it’s a natural impulse to look back on the previous 12 months and reflect on our experiences at work and at home. Hopefully, your looking back brings you smiles and feelings of gratitude and satisfaction.

In Stratford Manor, those of us who volunteer our services to the community  tend to measure some of our satisfaction over the past year on what the HOA has managed to accomplish on behalf of all owners. Have we been successful in balancing homeowner rights with the needs of the community? Have we been consistent in our treatment of issues, regardless of which owners are involved? Have we been transparent enough to earn and retain owner support for what we are doing? Those are questions only you can answer.

But I do know that I am proud of our Board’s Directors and how conscientious and fair they insist on being. Some Board meetings may seem to our visitors like a heated argument. But that’s what happens sometimes when you feel passionate about something that’s going to affect the community. It’s never personal, and it always results in a better outcome.

Personally, I am very satisfied with the progress we made in 2021 in tackling the goals the Board adopted last December.  A massive project to repave our entire community hit a snag late in the year with unexpected foundation issues. But we had successes as well.

For instance, we managed to get curbs and sidewalks repaired to eliminate trip hazards, we beautified the large median in the Sloane neighbood, we eliminated or trimmed trees that posed a danger to homes, and we treated homeowner requests with an eye toward satisfying their needs instead of enforcing unnecessarily strict rules.

At the same time, we continued to be reminded of the value of having Abbitt as our property manager. Not only do they expertly handle our financial accounting needs and investments, but they also are a reservoir of great knowledge of current state laws and best practices by the many other associations under their management. Abbitt’s professional guidance and support to the Board is invaluable, whether it’s sending out meeting notices and annual meeting materials, preparing resale packages to townhome buyers, collecting and processing Association payments or conducting spring inspections of our properties.

When we wanted to hire a new contractor for our tree work earlier this year,  Abbitt researched and certified R & K, making them an approved vendor we could rely on. When one our HOA’s main sewer lines got clogged up and caused a backup in two owners’ bathtubs one night recently, Abbitt’s 24-hour on-call service contacted a plumber and got the problem corrected immediately.

Regardless of the homeowner’s problem or request, Abbitt serves as the point of contact and makes certain each inquiry is resolved.  With Abbitt’s help, your Board is primed and ready to tackle the challenges of 2022. We hope you all have a successful new year as well.                                            

                                                                                                                             -- John Gullett, President

Repaving work stalls after two parking lots; unstable soil blamed

The SMA’s plans to repave the entire Stratford Manor community were derailed when the contractor, Basic Construction, removed the old asphalt at the large Kenilworth lot and a small lot on Wellesley and discovered that the subsoil underneath was not stable enough to support the weight of vehicles. This required a halt to the work while a sub contractor specializing in soil stabilization came in and created a foundation that provided the needed stability.

Bob Lucas, Chairman of the Infrastructure Committee, said the additional expense incurred with the soil stablization brought the paving work  to a halt until various options could be received and evaluated. “We weren’t budgeted for this,” said Lucas, “so we will be drawing up a new plan just as soon as we clarify what our options are.” When a new plan is adopted, owners will be notified.

Meanwhile, the Board  is working with the SMA’s engineering consultant to resolve some issues with the repaving work done thus far.

New Board member takes seat; 2022 goals adopted

The SMA Board included a new face when it met for its 2022 organizational meeting in early December, and got an early start on planning for its projects and priorities in the new year.

Madoline Wallace, of 143 Wellesley, took her seat at the virtual table (via Zoom) after being elected to the Board for a three-year term at the Nov. 17 Annual Owners’ Meeting. She succeeded Katie Johnston, who had completed her term and moved out of Stratford Manor.  In addition, three other Board members were reelected. They are Betty Blackburn, of 178 Wellesley, who was named to the remaining two years of an unexpired term, and Bob Lucas, 156 Wellesley, and Nancy Allen, 172 Wellesley, who were both elected to new three-year terms. (See News Briefs on Page 4 for more Board appointments).

The Board wasted no time in adopting its new goals for 2022. “These are important elements in our effort to remain focused on the most important items throughout the year,” explained President John Gullett.  The 11 goals include implementing a revised master plan for repaving the community’s roads and parking lots, getting the remaining 25 or so votes for the new Declaration, and conducting a comprehensive review of our landscaping practices.

“Some owners have been asking about our 2021 goal of developing a policy on rental units,” Mr. Gullett noted. “That had to be put on the back burner because we fell short of getting the votes needed to adopt our new Declaration. It remains a priority goal in 2022, but only after we have this new governing document in place. Otherwise, we wouldn’t be able to make it official.”

The Board also wants to better utilize technology in 2022 to improve communications with owners.  “This is a very challenging goal for our Board,” said Mr. Gullett, “since we need someone with the expertise to revamp our website and help us create an interactive platform for owners to communicate with the Board and other owners. We lost our webmaster when Katie Johnson left, so we need to fill that vacancy. This would be an ideal way for an owner not on the board to pitch in and help expand our HOA’s services. If anyone has an interest, just approach any Board member.” <

Leaves still on your patio? Bag’em!

Year Round Landscaping’s task of getting up all the leaves that fall in our community is a tough job, made even tougher when owners blow their patio leaves out onto the common area.

If case you have forgotten the rule, leaves that accumulate in your flower beds, garden, or patio are the owner’s responsibility to dispose of, by bagging in clear bags for the bulk waste pickup or putting into your trash bin.

Nancy Allen, Landscaping Committee Chair, explains that YRL’s contract does not include picking up owners’ leaves. “They won’t pick them up,” she said, ”but they will report it to Abbitt. Please be considerate and dispose of them yourself.” 

Stratford Manor News Briefs

Officers, Committees elected—The Board elected its leadership for the new year,  including two new committee chairpersons. Betty Blackburn, who joined the Board earlier this year, was named chair of the Social and Welcome Committee, and Donna Groller was elected  chair of the Nominating Committee .  All other 2021 committee chairs and all 2021 officers were reelected for 2022.

In addition, Barbara Lucas, of 156 Wellesley,  was added to the Social and Welcome Committee and Richard  Wahlert, 120 Sloane, was reelected to the Infrastructure  Committee.

Fall tree work completed without a hitch-- R & K Tree Service, which replaced Squirrely Jack as our Association’s regular tree management contractor, completed its fall tree work earlier this month. Russ Kenwood, R & K’s owner, took down four diseased or damaged trees and trimmed branches on another dozen or so, at a total cost of $10,500.

“We received several positive comments from owners,” said Landscaping Committee Chair Nancy Allen. “Russ’s crew did a very professional job, including thoroughly cleaning up all work sites. And a big plus is that he is a certified arborist who gives us timely warning of any dangerous situations. We are very glad to partner with him.”

 Assessment payment notices mailed—Abbitt has mailed first-of-the-year assessment statements to all Strafford Manor owners, with a due date of Jan. 1. There is a 30-day grace period, so you have until January 31 to pay and avoid being hit with a $50 late fee.

Reminder: No curb parking allowed—Residents who had to move their cars to make way for infrastructure repairs were allowed to park on nearby curbs without fear of being towed. But some folks may have forgotten that it was only temporary. “I have seen an increase in the number of vehicles that park on the curb in my lot,” said Vice President Donna Groller, “and I worry about what might happen if an emergency vehicle has to make its way to a resident’s door.”

As Ms. Groller reminded us, SMA rules prohibit parking in areas outside of our assigned parking spaces, except for contractors or others making house calls—and only if they do not hinder traffic. “I would hate to see someone’s car towed,” she said. “So please remind your visitors that if you don’t have a space to lend them, they need to park on a nearby public street.”

Trash pickup Schedule*

 Dec.21—Recycling, bulk pickup & trash; Dec. 28--Trash only.

Jan. 4-- Recycling, bulk pickup & trash; Jan. 11—Trash only;

 Jan. 19-- Recycling, bulk pickup & trash (Wednesday pickup due to holiday).  Jan. 25—Trash only.

Feb. 1---- Recycling, bulk pickup & trash; Feb. 8—Trash only; Feb. 15-- Recycling, bulk pickup & trash.

*Trash and recycling receptacles should be curbside no earlier than 3 p.m. the day before the scheduled pickup. Bulk trash may be put out the weekend before the scheduled collection.

On behalf of all Board members, have a wonderful holiday season with your family and friends!