PGA NATIONAL Property Owners Association

Palm Beach Gardens, FL

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Property Managers Report – October 2017

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IRMA – NO LAST NAME GIVEN:
We are happy to report that the expected Category 4 hurricane was nowhere near that strength by the time PGA National felt its effects. According to the Palm Beach Post, the top wind speed in Palm Beach Gardens was 84 mph with gusts over 90 mph but that was enough to topple and break apart over 500 trees on POA property and along main roads and pull branches down from an additional 425 trees. A number of PGA owners were without electricity for up to 3 days but we know of no structural damage. Those residents in Miami and the Keys and along the west coast should remain in our thoughts and prayers; they took the brunt of the storm.

For those with plywood, metal panels and Fabric Shield on windows and doors, please be aware these items should be removed by now and we respectfully request that you remove this type of window protection ASAP.

The City of Palm Beach Gardens and FEMA worked hard to pick up debris inside the communities. It took a little longer in the POA Common areas but we appreciate your patience during the cleanup.  We truly appreciate the residents and the HOA/Condo Associations promptly cleaning everything up so quickly in the neighborhoods!

PGA security, with sincere appreciation to Keith Echols, Security Director and the on-site team who stayed during the hurricane, started immediately clearing streets and storm drains as soon as the “all clear” was given. PGA Golf Maintenance, Resort Security and NPBCID were all pitching in to ensure that the roads were not flooded and emergency personnel could get though – Great Job Everyone! Annco Maintenance personnel and Bartlett Tree Service have been cleaning up all POA common areas and roadways. PGA National covers 2,340 acres so it is no small undertaking. As of the writing of this article, we anticipate it will take 30 days to fully restore order so it looks like there was never a storm and we can resume our regular prune and mow schedule. 

I think we were very fortunate and hope we don’t have to go through this again.  Thank you to everyone who prepared in advance then immediately cleaned up yards and communities.  Mother Nature will regenerate the landscape; I’m happy it is only landscape that was destroyed. Thanks again everyone!

SOME REMINDERS AFTER THE STORM:
Being human, we tend to be reactive instead of proactive and many owners will realize they need to install hurricane shutters (or change panels to something easier to install/close); generators will be a popular item; and roofs may need replacement. Certainly landscape will need restoration!

Please remember that any and all exterior changes require prior written approval from the POA Architectural Review Committee (“ARC”). If you lost a tree during the storm, you can of course remove it but you must still get approval. The ARC application form is available here. The process is easier than it sounds and Lori Moody at the POA office is always willing to help.

In summary, we need a photo of the tree (or, if it has been removed, a photo showing where the tree was) and this needs to be submitted with your request for removal. No, the ARC isn’t crazy asking for pictures of invisible trees – they need to know whether the tree must be replaced so your request should indicate whether or not you want to replace the tree and, if so, advise what species/size you would like to use. The POA Design Review Manual requires a certain number of trees on each lot. The idea is to buffer architecture so the photo does serve a purpose. Be sure to take it from far enough away that the ARC can see the area around the tree (ie: we don’t need a close up of a stump please).

The ARC meets on the 3rd Thursday each month and applications must be received a week before the meeting, so be sure to make application in plenty of time to ensure that any conditions for approval can be met. For example, don’t have the shutter company start fabrication of your new accordion shutters before you get approval. The ARC may deny the type of shutter where you want it (eg: accordion shutters on arched windows are not typically permitted).

Again, you can reach Lori Moody at (561) 627-2800 and she can help you with the process.

STAY SAFE – HURRICANE SEASON IS THROUGH NOVEMBER SO WE STILL HAVE A WAY TO GO!

Property Manager’s Report – October 2013

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SALUTE!
No, that isn’t an invitation to raise your glass; it’s a recognition of my fellow service personnel (yes, I was in the Air Force for a while). For those who haven’t been paying attention, there is a very active Veteran’s Committee and on Sunday, November 10th they are having a Dedication Ceremony at the new Veteran’s Garden in Masters Park (on the corner of Ryder Cup Blvd at Ave. of the Masters). Please look for the article in this issue of C.A.N.!

ELECTIONS
In this issue of C.A.N. you will find a notice about the PGA POA Annual Meeting and Election to be held in January. Anyone interested in running for election to the POA Board should send a letter to the POA by the end of October so the Nominating Committee can contact you. All POA Board members serve a two year term and most will Chair one of the POA Committees. A complete list of POA Committees can be found here on the website or you can call me for more information.

BAR CODES AND GATES
If you are one of the many residents who either got a new license plate or a new car, the POA needs to be aware. It has come to our attention that some residents who purchased a new car have peeled the bar code and re-attached it to the new car. While this might work for a while with the older bar codes, it will fail eventually. Of more serious concern is that the data on file is now incorrect. The POA Board and staff have worked hard to ensure that the gate data base is as accurate as possible so when or if the POA ever gets full-time access control, we won’t have to again issue 10,000 bar codes. To help us keep info up-to-date, you should contact the POA to let us know if your license plate has changed and, if you get a new car, you should get a new barcode. They are only $5.00 and it takes less than 2 minutes on average for us to assign the new bar code sticker.

One other thing: If you find that the gate does not open (especially at the Northlake entry which has the most sensitive reader) it may be time to get a new bar code sticker. Cars that are parked outside, bar codes issued more than 5 years ago, and vehicles that get regular professional cleaning can all be subject to the sticker deteriorating. Once the barcode starts to look black and gray instead of black and white, it is definitely time for a new sticker. The POA is open 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. Monday through Friday and for those who absolutely, positively can’t make it during those hours, if you call me, I will do my best to accommodate you. We really appreciate your cooperation.

STILL BLOWN AWAY
The POA recently completed the annual tree trimming in the common areas. If you haven’t trimmed the trees on your property, you should get this done soon. The “H” season lasts until the end of November and trees will survive a storm much better if the wind can blow through the trees rather than hitting a solid, dense canopy which causes the tree to blow over. Don’t wait until a storm is spotted in the Atlantic…..by then it’s too late to have the tree trimmed and debris removed. You should also have your other supplies (batteries, flashlights, canned food, etc.) on hand. Just because it’s October doesn’t mean we are in the clear; after all Jeannie and Francis both visited in late October!

DRIVING
You are, I am sure, aware that school started last month. First, a reminder to SLOW DOWN and be aware that we have kids of all ages waiting beside the road and crossing streets to get to their bus stop. This also means that parents, in an effort to keep their children safe, are parking by bus stops and waiting to pick up/drop off their children. Some don’t realize they are obstructing the site lines for other cars which creates a whole new danger. If you are one of the parents who wait for the bus, please be aware of where you are parking to wait. The POA is looking into some kind of solution since moving bus stops is not the answer….historically it just moves the problem or creates additional concerns. Additional paver pads may be installed in some areas.

Also, for parents whose children ride their bicycle to the bus stop, please tell your children not to chain their bikes to trees, guardrails and other similar structures/landscape. A bicycle rack has been ordered for Marlwood Park. Do not leave bikes on Tournament at Ryder Cup; lock the bicycle in the park then walk over to the bus stop.

Property Manager’s Report – September 2012

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HI everyone: I missed you last month! I won’t take much of your time but there are a few important reminders:

WHERE IS SECURITY?
I’m sure you have noticed the friendly attitude of the guards when you enter any of the PGA gates. Well, that’s the ABM Security Services (also known as Elite Protection Services) crew. As indicated in the memo sent to all PGA residents with the annual assessment notice, the Board of Governors signed a contract with Elite as of July 1st. In addition to a nice savings which allowed us to keep the POA annual assessment at the same $700.00 as last year, Elite also brought a lot of technological advances to the community. All patrol cars have laptop computers so the guards on patrol can immediately look up information instead of having to radio the main Communication Center. Elite is also supplying new license plate recognition cameras at all gates and a number of improvements have been made (and will be made) to the access control software programs. There are quite a few improvements to the overall service that I can’t go into (in case the “bad guys” are reading this too) but suffice to say the Security Committee and Board of Governors did an excellent job with the bid process and selection/transition.

After Elite came on Board, a few residents called because they had not seen the patrol vehicles. They are still there but the cars are not as “bold” as the former G4S vehicles with the graphics on the windows and red stripes. There should be a photo here on the POA’s website and you’ll see the light bar on the top is a “low profile” with clear lenses (although the bulbs have color when the lights are on).

Due to the aforementioned improvements, the patrols are in the communities more frequently than in the past. All vehicles have GPS units so management can look at the computer and tell you exactly where any patrol vehicle is located at any given time.

The POA was fortunate to be able to keep some of the key personnel who were assigned to PGA National for many years which made the transition very smooth – but Elite also did an excellent job in communicating and holding frequent training and orientation meetings so the change was as seamless as it could be for a 5,000 home community that was with G4S / Wackenhut for almost 20 years. Our friends at G4S also did a great job and will be missed but I know you’ll welcome the Elite crew!

BREAK INS
There have been owners who have found items stolen from their unlocked cars and there was one residential burglary recently. In the case of all the cars to date, residents left the doors unlocked and someone helped themselves to change and other easily taken items. In the case of the residential burglary, the owner DID lock the door and set the alarm but someone entered via a very small window and took small but valuable items. They were in and out within minutes so the only caution we can give you is to keep your eyes (and ears) open! If you see anyone suspicious, day or night, call security (627-1600). I’ve said it before: It doesn’t matter if security responds to 100 calls that turn out to be nothing and we would rather they do that than to miss the one that really is a legitimate suspicious person intent on causing harm or damage. There are a lot of workers in the community during the day but it is a popular time for break-ins. Here are some things to look for:

  • Someone driving around a community perhaps passing by every few minutes
  • Someone fishing inside a community (which is against the rules)
  • Someone walking by a number of times (especially if they are carrying a large sack/purse or backpack)
  • Workers who seem to be paying more attention to people coming and going than they are to their work

OTHER REMINDERS
School is back in session. This means it is again time for the people waiting at the bus stop: both the young people sitting and standing at the curb waiting for the bus, as well as parents parked near the stop. Please use extreme care with your speed and be sure to pay attention when driving.

The Assessment payment to PGA POA was due July 1st. If you are reading this and have not yet paid the annual assessment, your account is past due and interest has been posted. The POA Board makes every attempt to work with owners who are having financial difficulties so if you cannot pay the assessment in one installment please call me to work out details.

Storms: Don’t forget that September is the peak of “H” Season…sorry we can’t use the “H” word but it means big winds, rain and damage. This website has a lot of helpful information on how to prepare before, during and after a storm. Don’t wait until everyone has purchased all the batteries, water, and other necessary supplies – buy them now.

Speaking of storms, I would say that for several years we “enjoyed” a drought but that would not be accurate as we didn’t enjoy the water restrictions and people and animals suffering from the heat without any relief from rain. We are, however, back into the usual pattern of afternoon thunderstorms. Many owners have discovered their roof needs to be replaced (don’t forget to get POA ARC approval first!).

You have probably also discovered that when the rain comes down hard and fast, the storm drains can’t keep up. This doesn’t mean the pumps aren’t working or they aren’t on; instead, one of the problems is the leaves and debris covering the metal storm grates. In mid-August, I was out in the rain (along with security personnel) clearing those storm drains along the main roads and inside many communities. Each owner should keep any drains near or on their property cleared. It is amazing to watch the suction on the water going down the drain once the debris is moved yet I still get calls to “do something” (like I control the weather?) when we get heavy rains. If you would be so kind as to help spread the word to your neighbors and management companies to keep the leaves and debris cleared off the top of the drain covers, it would help considerably (and I thank you!)

A FUN THING
Actually, two fun things. The Special Events Committee is trying to organize a “Concert in the Park” in Masters Park sometime between January and March. We don’t have details yet but “stay tuned”.

The Special Events Committee is also accepting applications for the 7th Annual Arts & Crafts Festival in Masters Park. If you, or anyone you know, is an artist or crafter, put them in contact with the POA office or look here on the website for information about the event. It is a one day festival on Saturday, December 8th from 10:00 am – 4:00 pm and even if you don’t know anyone who can participate, you should mark your calendar! In addition to food, music and a fun day, it’s a great place to pick up one of a kind unique gifts for yourself or others!

Property Manager’s Report – December 2009

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Hi – I fell off my soapbox and I’m back….see last month’s article if you don’t know what I’m referring to. Thanks for all the positive comments to last month’s rant! Sometimes we just have to vent and I guess I felt it was just my turn – thanks again for “listening”.

First, I want to remind everyone that the PGA POA Special Events Committee has been working very hard organizing the 4th Annual Art Festival and Craft Fair to be held Saturday, December 12th in Masters Park. You do NOT want to miss it this year! In addition to more than 60 very talented artists and crafters, there will be food and great weather (do you think the weather sprites would let us down after the cold event last year?). Seriously, stop by between 10:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. – even if you just stop to say hi to me while I sell the jewelry I make in all my “spare” time!

So, what’s up?

Paving
A few months ago I reported that NPBCID would be paving Tournament Blvd. Well, they are going to but it seems it will happen later than I anticipated so I will have to let you know when I hear something

Entry
The POA is still working with the PGA Resort to try to enhance the entry at Avenue of the Champions. Ultimately, the goal is to enhance all entries but that one will be first. Did you notice the new tile roofs on all the guardhouses? The next minor project will be repainting the monument walls and the Northlake Blvd wall.

Turnpike Buffer
Although it has taken longer than expected for the ficus hedge to grow in, I am happy to report that it is thickening up and getting taller. Who knew that White Fly was going to attack Ficus and that we would have the worst drought ever right after the hedge was planted? Speaking of White Fly, if you have a Ficus hedge or tree anywhere on your property, call a pest control company to treat it right away. I’m sure you have seen sections of beautiful, full hedges suddenly turn brown and die…its most likely White Fly! It will kill a previously thought indestructible Ficus in weeks.

Dogs
Many owners have stepped up (which is so much better than stepping in) and are now cleaning up after their pets – thank you! Wackenhut Security is going to start handing out bags to any owner seen walking a pet without visible means of cleaning up. This doesn’t mean you should stop carrying a bag so you can get one from them: if it happens often enough with the same person, it is possible that you could be subject to fining for not following the rules so please continue doing a great job on your own.

Security
Wackenhut has its own article but now that everyone is back in town I wanted to remind you: LOCK YOUR DOORS – SET YOUR ALARM. Please do not leave anything valuable in your car and by all means, lock the door to your car and your home! Leaving the garage door open while you walk to the group of mailboxes two doors down is a great way for someone to slip into your house and you won’t even know it. Keep your garage door closed and stay safe.

A BIG SECRET!!!!
The PGA POA Annual meeting will be held Thursday, January 21, 2010. Sign in starts at 5:00 p.m. and the meeting starts at 6:00 p.m. NO, that is not the secret, silly – we send everyone a notice about the meeting! The secret is that the POA will be raffling off
Two tickets to the Honda Classic Champions Club on the 18th Fairway (yep, the expensive ones). All you have to do is attend the meeting (sorry, you can’t sign in and leave, you have to stay). The meeting will only take about an hour and the public officials who diligently attend each year and give a report will be happy to see you there taking an interest (even if we did have to bribe you). Hope to see you there!

In closing I want to wish everyone a very happy holiday season. We are all going through difficult times and those who can afford it should think about sharing whatever they can: clean out a closet and donate to the local charity; spend a day working at a food bank or “soup kitchen”; make a cash donation; pick up a toy and put it in the “Toys for Tots” bin or buy some extra food for the bin at Publix; or just hold the door and smile at someone if that’s all you can give. Believe me, every little thing means a lot!

Property Manager’s Report – November 2009

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POA ANNUAL MEETING –WHY YOU NEED TO BE THERE
The Annual Meeting and election for PGA POA will be held Thursday, January 21st. Every year the POA Board begs residents to attend. This year is no different! Please mark your calendar and plan to stop by the PGA Resort for the 6:00 p.m. meeting. Aside from the fact that you should vote for board members to protect your biggest investment (your home), there are also various City and County Officials who give their annual report and share information regarding your community outside of PGA National.

There may come a time when you need the various officials to support or deny something that may have a direct impact on the residents of PGA National. If you can’t take an hour out of your schedule to listen to what they have to say, it might be perceived as an “I don’t’ care” attitude when we know that isn’t the case so please, please, please join us at the POA Annual meeting. The official meeting notice with all details will be mailed in mid-December.

If the above plea doesn’t help, here’s a secret: Two passes to the Honda Classic will be given away at the POA Annual Meeting. These passes are for one day at the Champions Club overlooking the 18th Fairway with unlimited food and beverage service. Other ground passes will also be given away.

DON’T RUN THEM OVER!
Who? Anyone! I reminded everyone that school started a few months ago and now that Thanksgiving and other holidays are arriving there are even more people walking, skating and bicycling in PGA National. We have a lot of environmentally conscientious residents who ride scooters or bicycles on the road and (especially in the early morning or late afternoon) when the sun is in our eyes, it is sometimes hard to see them. They don’t bounce well so please give them room when sharing the road. Motorized vehicles are not permitted on the walking/bicycle paths so they must use the street.

The same courtesy is needed for those using the paths/sidewalks: When riding or skating up behind someone, a simple shout out of, “on your left”, or “coming up on your right” will allow that person to step out of the way and hopefully in the proper direction! Simple courtesy, please!

DOGS
OK, this is really for dog OWNERS since if your dog could read you would be so rich you wouldn’t be reading this! If you like to bring your pet to the parks in PGA National, especially the two that have playground equipment: KEEP THE DOG(S) ON A LEASH AND CLEAN UP AFTER THEM!!!! Aside from the fact that the rules of PGA require this, please consider that the two parks with swings and playground equipment are primarily used by people with children. This means lots of little, miniature people easily knocked over by a dog who “just wants to play”. Also, keep in mind that really little ones like to put things in their mouth – I’m not even going to explain that any further but be a responsible pet owner!!!!

A REQUEST FROM THE “YOU PEOPLE”
I’ve been threatening to address this for almost 12 years and after having to call security twice this month when residents threatened staff or became abusive, I felt it was time.

Part of our job in the property management business is accepting that many people will call (or stop by) to “vent” their frustrations. We understand this and we are happy to listen and help in any way that we can. It is expected and isn’t a problem until the caller (or visitor) becomes abusive. There is absolutely no situation that warrants anyone being verbally abusive to any employee of the POA and it is not acceptable.

Please keep in mind that the staff at the POA does not have any power to approve or disapprove anything; we take our direction from the Board and we are here to uphold the provisions of the governing documents and directives from the Board. Since the Board and Committee members are all unpaid volunteers and your neighbors, a separate staff handles the day-to-day affairs within the office.

Yes, we are paid and our favorite expression is “I pay your salary” (its right up there with being called a “you people” since an average salary of $30,000 per year divided by 5,000 homes only works out to about $6.00 per home per YEAR). I received a call this week from someone who insisted that JoAnn O’Mara personally approved a paint color that they objected to. They tried to tell me I was not telling them the truth because they “saw evidence” of her approval which was actually her name on the letter. She did sign the letter but it was “on behalf of the PGA POA Architectural Review Committee” and the matter was brought before the ARC meeting and voted on by the ARC (note: no member of the POA staff votes on any committee or board matter). The date of all meetings of the POA is published on Channel 63 and the door of the POA office and all owners are permitted to attend any meeting. As the Property Manager, I sign letters “on behalf of the PGA POA Board of Governors” but that doesn’t mean that I personally have any opinion on the open garage door, trash violations, overgrown plants, improperly maintained home or anything else…I am simply upholding the governing documents on behalf of the Board AND the residents and sign the letter “on behalf of” whatever committee the matter relates to (or on behalf of the Board).

Here are some matters that come up frequently:
The documents require the board to charge interest on assessments that are not paid on time (July 1st each year). It is not optional, the documents state interest WILL be charged (not may be charged). In order to be fair to everyone the board cannot “waive” interest. It is like your mortgage: due at the same time whether or not you received a statement or invoice. It is the owner’s responsibility to find out why they didn’t get a bill if not received before July 1st.

The same documents require owners to get ARC approval for all changes to the exterior of their home. The By-Laws even go into some detail about the type of changes “including but not limited to” decorative plaques or accessories, statues, lighting, asphalt, driveway treatment, basketball hoops, etc. There is no provision for skipping this application process because your “neighbor has the same basket ball hoop so you thought it was OK”; or “no one can see in my back yard”. All changes require written approval from the POA ARC (even if the HOA/condo ARC has given their approval)

The bottom line is that everyone who purchased a home in PGA National agreed to abide by all governing documents. We all know that rules are great as long as they don’t interfere with what you want to do. No one likes to receive a letter of violation or be told that what they want to do isn’t permitted. Because the POA Board continues to require owners to abide by these documents the homes in PGA National (some that are 30 years old) can still compete with newer homes…..well, once the market picks up! You are fortunate to have a board that will truly listen to your suggestions and comments. The staff will be happy to listen to you too and pass along your comments…but not if you are verbally abusive so please take a breath before calling us. If you are so angry that you must shout at someone, please do NOT yell at my staff – ask for Dawn.

Finally, if you have a question (like the one taped to the POA door about a house color in Glengary) please PUT CONTACT INFO ON IT unless you don’t really want an answer and just want to “vent”. If you don’t want anyone to know who is complaining, you should still give me your name with a request that I not disclose the info …if the Air Force gave me a Top Secret clearance, I assure you I DO know how to keep things to myself. Please also note it is policy that we NEVER tell anyone we contact about a matter that it is because so-and-so complained.

Thanks for listening to me vent. I hope you will read this in the spirit it was written: That the PGA POA staff is here to help you and we will do whatever we can for you….just please ask nicely because we really are on your side!

Property Manager’s Report – October 2009

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ANNUAL MEETING AND ELECTION
It’s that time again! The POA is looking for candidates to run for election to the POA Board of Governors. If you are interested, please contact Dawn at 627-2800.

By the way, the Annual meeting will be held at the PGA Resort on Thursday, January 21st. It’s a 5:30 p.m. sign in with a 6:00 p.m. meeting. It is important that residents attend!!! The City and County representatives that attend take time from their busy schedule to give reports of interest to the PGA National community. When one hundred or less of FIVE THOUSAND homes are represented, it sends a clear message that you just don’t care. Of course, that may not be the case, but it is how it is perceived. What do you think will happen when those same officials need to make a decision on something that may impact the community?

The Board looked into serving refreshments but the cost would be in the neighborhood of $11,000.00 and with the economy today and the Board trying their best to control costs, they could not justify this expense. The meeting rarely lasts more than an hour. Why not stop by the meeting then enjoy dinner out?

HOW COME THAT HOUSE LOOKS SO BAD?
As indicated above, today’s economy is affecting everyone. Unfortunately, this means there are a number of foreclosures. Homes are vacant and falling into a state of disrepair while the banks wade through red tape and the courts before they can take title and assume responsibility. Fortunately, the City of Palm Beach Gardens’ Code Enforcement Division can and does assist with keeping grass cut and putting chemicals in pools to prevent them from smelling (even though they are still green).

If you are wondering why the HOA or POA doesn’t do something and start maintaining the property it is because the money to do so can’t be recovered! There is one home partially constructed and at least two others where stucco is cracking and there are holes in the fascia. While either the HOA or POA might have the right to enter the property and correct the violation, do you want to start paying for each situation. Right now there are approximately seventy foreclosures in PGA National and it is anticipated the number will only increase. If it costs only $500.00 to fix the house (or cut grass several times and this is a very conservative estimate when it usually takes more than a year for the foreclosure to go through) when you multiply that $500. by 70 homes you get $35,000.00 that comes out of your pocket. Remember, that annual assessments for that property are not being paid either so you are covering that cost too!

The whole point is to explain why we rely on the City’s help when possible and to ask you to please be patient (as you have been) and understand that the foreclosure process is a very slow one…… Thank you for your patience!

FLASHERS…
No, not men in raincoats….those who flash their headlights to warn oncoming drivers of police presence. Did you know that you can be issued a ticket for flashing your lights to warn other drivers? It’s true! Also, for those who like to be ‘helpful’ to their friends and neighbors in PGA National to warn them of the police, please be aware that most officers won’t stop you for driving less than 10 miles over the speed limit. This means in the 25 mph sections of PGA, you have to be going at least 35 mph.

I know I keep harping on this but there are a lot of kids, pets, wildlife, etc in PGA National and it is important that you drive at posted speed limits for your safety and theirs. Thank you for your cooperation with this important matter.

ARTS….CRAFTS…FUN….ANYONE?
I WARNED YOU! I am going to keep telling you about the December 12th Art Festival and Craft Fair in Masters Park. The POA Special Events Committee is still looking for artists and crafters to participate. It isn’t too late but it soon will be!

Get an application on line at pga-poa.com or call 627-2800 and ask us to send you an application….tell your friends! If you go to other events or have a favorite artist or crafter, mention this event to them. You don’t have to live in PGA National to participate. The whole cost is only $40.00 so how can they lose? Hope to see you there: whether you are buying or selling!

C.A.N. Report – July 2009

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STORMS
Yes, I’m bringing it up again and I am not allowed to use the “H” word until after November 30th.    We’ve noticed a few owners have closed their storm shutters and have “headed north” or are on vacation. While the POA rules state that accordion shutters, clear panels, or shutters that are factory finished to match the surface they are attached to, as approved by the POA ARC, can be closed between June 1st  – November 30th, you might want to reconsider.  Closing up your house for weeks or months lets everyone know you are away.  While you may believe the shutters give you an extra level of security, I can tell you if someone wants to get in they will!  Now they are in your house and don’t need to be secretive or worry about the lights – the shutters are closed and your neighbors can’t see in.  I’m sure you understand the concern so please give careful consideration to this before closing up your house for long periods of time.

Along the same lines, whenever you go away it is important that you discontinue the newspaper and you should notify Wackenhut Security.  They provide a property check (upon written request) and will walk around the perimeter of your home to conduct an inspection in addition to their regular street patrol of the community.  You can obtain a form by clicking here.  All owners are encouraged to have someone go inside their home to be sure everything is secure and there are no leaks or other problems.  A simple thing like the air conditioner not working can result in thousands of dollars in mildew restoration to owners who are away for a few months and don’ t know their air is off!

DRAINAGE
Although we are very happy to have the rains, we are now getting calls from owners who “need a boat to get the mail”.  Two things to remember, if you have a large metal storm grate on or near your lot, please be nice enough to take a rake and clear the debris from the surface of the grate after the first rains.  Leaves and other debris wash away with the rain and these items get stuck on the top of the grate.  If you don’t clear the debris, the water can’t flow properly.

In addition, many owners have installed a “yard drain” which looks like a small grate on each side of the driveway.  These are typically tied into a horizontal pipe that runs from house to house then into a storm drain.  They were never designed to be installed and left alone.   They too fill up with leaves and debris and stop working.  If you have NEVER had the drain cleaned out, you might want to consider calling a company who can clear it with a high pressure hose.  Otherwise, you should use your hose with a high pressure nozzle once per month to be sure the line stays clear and, of course, encourage your neighbors to do the same so the whole line remains clean.

ASSESSMENTS
If you haven’t sent your $624.00 payment to PGA POA, it is now late.  Please be sure to get the payment to the office to avoid interest that will begin accruing this month.  The POA Board has worked with residents who are having financial difficulties so please don’t “ignore” the bill.  Give me a call (all info is kept confidential) so you don’t end up with a lot of legal fees and collection costs when you are already having difficulty.  The Board understands what these difficult economic times are doing to everyone and we thank you for your efforts to keep your account current and your property looking great!

SPECIAL EVENTS
In closing, I want to address all you closet artists!  No, not the ones who redecorate their closet every month….those who are wonderful artists and crafters and are easily intimidated or afraid to take the first step.  Just do it!  The POA Special Events Committee is holding the 4th annual Art Festival and Craft Fair on December 12th.  It was intended to get some of PGA’s talented residents showing and selling their items but after speaking with a few people it is evident that some of the best talents are just afraid to take the first step.  Why not take it here with your friends and neighbors?  Take a look at the application (and photos of last year’s event) here on our website.  We hope you will give it a try.  If you don’t want to participate quite yet, stop by and take a look around and maybe we will see you next year?

Have a happy summer!

C.A.N. Report – June 2009

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NEWS AND IMPROVEMENTS AROUND THE PGA COMMUNITY:

TURN ON (or I should say turn OUT!):

By the time you read this, you should see work beginning at Ryder Cup Blvd/PGA Blvd.  In the April issue I mentioned that Northern Palm Beach County Improvement District was going to start work on a right turn lane.  They are not actually constructing another lane, they are doing what we were told couldn’t be done:  They are re-striping the lanes to make the left lane a left turn and straight lane and the right lane will become right turn only.   It is so nice to know that another agency can do the impossible!  Seriously though, I know this has been a long-awaited project and that everyone will look forward to the completion.  During the construction phase, it would be helpful if you would please use the main (Ave of the Champions) road to exit when possible.  This will help protect the workers and other drivers and, of course, yourself!

WIDER AND WHITER: (No, not me without a tan!):

I’m referring to the sidewalk on Ryder Cup Blvd from the City Park lot to Avenue of the Masters.  Northern Palm Beach County Improvement District will be re-constructing the sidewalk to widen it (so that it is the same width as the sidewalk on the north side of Avenue of the Masters) and changing from asphalt to concrete.  The work should be underway as you read this article.

SHAKIN’ OR ROLLIN’ ON TOP (Again, we are not describingme!):

I’m referring to the guardhouse roofs.  The shake tile roofs are long overdue for replacement.  As usual, the POA Board is working to improve the appearance of the community and will be replacing the roofs with new roll tile.  The guard houses to be addressed include Avenue of the Masters, Tournament Blvd, each end of Ryder Cup Blvd, and the main information booth on Avenue of the Champions.  The good news is that there is no special assessment for this – it is covered in the General Reserve.  Work will begin after permitting (approximately July).  Hope you like the new look!

A CARD FOR YOU  (Sorry, I can’t think of a silly statement for this one):

Wackenhut Security will be implementing their Car Smart program “borrowed” from the Palm Beach Gardens Police.  You may be aware of the crimes of opportunity in PGA National.  Residents and their guests leave valuables in their car, leave the door unlocked and the property is stolen.   In an effort to reduce this type of crime, Wackenhut will be patrolling communities and looking in car windows (no, they are NOT checking to see if the car is locked).  If they find a vehicle with personal property in view, they will call the owner and let them know.

Cards are being printed and will be left on ALL vehicles in a particular area where Wackenhut patrols (yes, ALL cars so the notices don’t become an alert only on vehicles with valuables).  The patrol is separate from, and will not detract from, the regular community patrols.  Hopefully, you are not leaving valuables in your car and you are locking your car and your house.

YOUR TURN!!!

I’ve shared everything the POA (and NPBCID) is doing over the next few months; what are you doing to improve the appearance of your community or home?  While you tackle your “to do” list of pressure cleaning driveways, cleaning roof tiles, re-painting the house, landscaping, don’t forget that approval from the PGA Property Owners Association may be required.  If you have any questions as to whether or not the project you are planning needs approval, please call JoAnn at the POA at 627-2800.

Don’t forget that this is also the official beginning of “H” season (sorry, I am not allowed to use that word for the next few months but it is another word for a really BIG storm!).  Be sure you have the list of things to do before, during and after a storm. You can get this information either at the POA office or here on the website.

Have a safe and happy summer!

C.A.N. Report – May 2009

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CRIME ALERT!!!!
Although you are fortunate that there is very little crime in PGA National, it does exist. Last month, many Championship residents received a “reverse 911” call from the Palm Beach Gardens Police advising of a vehicle theft and vandalism in the gated subdivision. The same weekend, a vehicle lost all four wheels and tires on the west side of PGA National and a car had its windows smashed out on the east side of the community. Each of these events took place during the day or the early evening hours so here are some suggestions:

  • Get to know who lives around you (ie: just recognize their face!) so you can recognize someone who doesn’t belong
  • If you see someone you don’t recognize, pay attention to what they are doing and if you have any concerns, call the police or security.
  • Don’t be afraid to call security (627-1600). It is better that they check 100 calls that are nothing than to have one crime committed
  • Don’t assume that if you see something (like tires being removed from a vehicle) that someone else must have already called.
  • Never approach someone you suspect directly! Call the police or security
  • If you come home and you suspect someone has been in your house, don’t assume they are gone. LEAVE IMMEDIATELY and call the police from your cell phone or a neighbor’s house where you are safe.

If the matter is serious or urgent, call the police FIRST. Wackenhut security monitors all radio calls and will respond when you call the police. Wackenhut guards are not police and don’t have the same powers.

DOGS
The thing about dogs is that they can’t carry “pooper scoopers” or bags – they rely on you for that. They don’t like to live where they “go” (ie: if you “crate trained” your dog, you know that it will not go to the bathroom right where it sleeps).

If dogs wore shoes they wouldn’t want to step in their own mess. Worse yet, if they DIDN’T wear shoes, they wouldn’t want to step in it either!

What is my point? You live in a beautiful community and take pride in your home and your community so why not be a little considerate and clean up after your pet? I thank you; your neighbors thank you; your dog(s) thank you too.

Two large events are held in Masters Park each year: the April Children’s Party in the Park and the December Arts & Crafts Festival – I know you don’t enjoy stepping in the mess (or having your children sit/play in it) so we are begging for your cooperation to clean up after your pet(s) – not only in Masters Park but everywhere in PGA National.

MONEY!!!
Now that I have your attention, there are two important matters you need to be aware of: 1) the Annual Assessment invoice will be mailed June 1st and payment is due BY July 1st; and 2) the address where you direct your payment has CHANGED. If you pay your bills “on line’ or use a bill paying service, please remember to notify them of the new address and the new assessment amount.

The Board of Governors spent considerable time working on the new budget in consideration of the current economy and the many PGA owners who have been affected by same. For the past three or four years (and despite hurricanes) the assessment has remained at $586.00 and although the Board has agreed not to pursue any of the long–awaited improvement projects (such as beautification of all entries and enhancement of the entry monuments to more closely reflect the improvements to the PGA Resort) it still resulted in a slight budget increase. The biggest impact was as a result of the interest rates dropping and the loss of interest income from over $2Million in assessments that should be paid by July 1st as well as the number of foreclosures and the many owners whose assessments are in arrears even though not in foreclosure. The board has implemented a “bad debt” line item to help offset this loss of income. Put simply, all of the above means that all the owners of PGA must make up the shortfall.

The assessment will increase from $586.00 to $624.00 for the year (or $38.00 per lot or, in the case of commercial accounts, $38.00 per assessable unit). The cover letter and the budget with footnotes will explain everything in detail. I just wanted you to be aware of the increase and to let you know how hard your board worked (as always) to protect your property values without a significant financial impact.

HURRICANES
This is the last time I will use the “H word” for the next few months. I just wanted to remind you that next month officially begins “Hurricane Season” (June 1st – November 30th). Yes, it is that time already!

You can find helpful tips on the POA’s website (pga-poa.com) and we just wanted to remind you to prepare early. At my house, we slowly start stock-piling drinking water over a two or three month period. Items such as canned food that you might never eat if it wasn’t for storms can be purchased and will keep for quite some time. After the storm passes and you still don’t have electricity, it is amazing how good canned ravioli tastes heated on the Bar-B-Que grille as your first hot meal in several days!

Hurricane shutters are another matter. Please remember that installation of ALL hurricane shutters must be approved by the POA Architectural Review Committee (“ARC”) and many communities have a specific style, placement or color required for that community so please call the POA before contracting to have any type of storm shutters installed. Once in place, only accordion shutters, roll-down shutters, clear panels and metal panels that are factory finished to match the surface to which they are attached may be closed through the entire storm season. All other types, including plain metal, fabric shield, plywood and the like, may only be installed at the issuance of a Hurricane WARNING and must be removed within seven days after the warning is cancelled or the hurricane passes, whichever is later. Violators are subject to fines of $100. per day per the POA By-Laws and State statutes so please be sure you follow the rules and if you have any question, just call the POA office.

PICTURES OF YOU?
Don Paulus, Chairman of the POA Communications Committee has been trying to get photos at various events so he can put them on PGA TV Channel 63 (viewed within PGA only). In addition, I took photos at the Children’s Party in the Park which will appear in next month’s issue of this newspaper. You can also find these pictures on the POA website: pga-poa.com so take a look! Hope you were able to enjoy the party. The next POA Special Events Committee event is the 4th Annual Craft Fair & Art Festival at Masters Park on December 12th – don’ t miss it! If you know a talented crafter or artist, tell them to check the website for information about the event and an application form.