Record turnout for the Sovereign Oaks Homeowners Association Annual Meeting!
A total of 71 out of 99 Lot Owners attended and voted either in person or by proxy at the fifth Sovereign Oaks Homeowners’ Association Annual Meeting. Congratulations to all who participated in person or via proxy. Such a solid turnout not only strengthens the HOA, it serves to keep the Board and the volunteer committees closely in touch with the broader community. While full meeting minutes will be prepared and shared with the HOA, here are the highlights from last night’s meeting.
2023 HOA Budget Approved
The proposed 2023 HOA Budget, as presented to the membership in the mailing on September 7th, was overwhelmingly ratified by the membership.
- HOA Annual Dues remain unchanged at $1500 per lot, per year.
- The most significant changes from the current year expense budget are: 1) a separate line – item for $30,000 designated for construction of the Pavilion and 2) an increase in Legal Expenses from $10,000 budgeted this year to $13,000 for next year. That budget amount for next year was arrived at by averaging expenses over the three-year period 2020 – 2022.
Catherine Stelpflug Elected to HOA Board
With the three-year Board term for Brad Allen expiring this year, two HOA members stepped forward to run for the seat, Catherine Stelpflug, 9 Trail Top Drive and Leslie Connolly, 62 Wandering Oaks Way. Both candidates conducted robust campaigns to bring out their vote, which no doubt contributed to the high turnout at the meeting. Following a spirited but respectful debate during the meeting, Catherine was elected to a three-year term on the HOA Board. Congratulations to Catherine on being elected to the Board and thanks to both candidates for stepping forward, willing to serve.
20 m.p.h. Speed Limit and 4 Way Stop Sign Received Broad Support
During the open discussion period, HOA Member Lisa Armstrong, 43 Hawberry Court, raised concerns about pedestrian safety on Sovereign Oaks roads and suggested lowering the speed limit to 20 m.p.h. During the discussion, a suggestion was also raised about installing a 4-way stop sign at the four corners intersection on Wandering Oaks Way at the intersection of Towering Oaks and Trail Top. Both suggestions received overwhelming support from attendees. The Board will take up both issues at the next HOA Board meeting.
Thanks, Lisa, for bringing this important issue to the attention of the entire HOA.