HISTORY & GOVERNANCE

The Cherry Blossom Heights Recreation Club (the Club) operates as a nonprofit organization, which differs from a homeowners association (HOA), and was established during the neighborhood's development to oversee the maintenance of the club grounds. Ownership of the Club grounds is equally shared among the 127 homeowners in the neighborhood. At its inception, legal documents were formulated to outline the Club's operational framework. These documents stipulate a governing body consisting of seven board members, including three officers: President, Vice President, and Treasurer. Additionally, the documents provide guidelines for fee collection and financial management. You can read the Covenants and By Laws in full HERE and HERE. Every two years, officers are elected during the in-person meeting, and the Board is entrusted with the responsibility of maintaining and managing the grounds. This year that meeting is April 2nd, 2024 at 6:30pm.

During its early development, the pool and tennis courts were constructed and left to be managed and operated by the Club.  Over the last almost five decades, it has been maintained by the labor of volunteers and exclusively funded by the 127 homeowners in the neighborhood.  The Club relies solely on the participation of all homeowners to be properly funded and maintained.  This is unique, most neighborhoods would have an HOA to manage the grounds and pool operation and would collect HOA fees that allow sanctions in the event they are not paid.

REC GROUNDS TODAY

The Club grounds have fallen into a state of disrepair because of a lack of participation in both the annual fee and volunteers.  We know we can do better and show our gratitude to those who maintained the ground before us.  We can get the grounds back up to standard and make meaningful renovations so that everyone finds value and uses the property throughout the year.  We have a vision that involves adding a grassy park area, creating a multi-sport court, adding a cooking, and dining area, covered patios and even a jacuzzi hot tub.  All of this is possible with small participation from everyone.

FEES AND FINANCES

We urge all neighbors to attend the meeting (4/2/24), contribute the $100 fee, and actively engage in our efforts. Involvement doesn't necessitate a significant time commitment; it can be as simple as discussing the Club with neighbors and garnering support, or signing up to help maintain the pool a couple of days throughout the summer. If we all contribute a small amount of time, it will lighten the load on us all and make the pool an enjoyable asset our whole neighborhood can enjoy. The fee alone significantly aids in maintaining the Club and enhancing its facilities. Collected rec club fees contribute to the following:

  • Pool chemicals

    Water testing

    Property Insurance

    Health Department licensing

    Phone service

    KID and water bills

    Cleaning supplies

    Locksmith fees to rekey the lock each summer

    Website fees

    Mailing expenses

    Emergency repairs (roof leaks, plumbing issues, etc.)

    Necessary upgrades (pool step railing, pool resurfacing, new tennis nets, privacy fencing, etc)

    Grounds improvements (tbd dependent on funds available)

At the opening of the rec club in 1977, the fees were $50 for resident fee and $50 for pool membership. Today, inflation would place the fee closer to $250 each. However, we aim to retain it at a $100  resident fee and $100 pool fee, as it has been for the last several decades. If participation does not increase this year, we will be forced to increase the fees.

Last year, the Board implemented substantial budget cuts, such as canceling trash removal, professional pool services, weed control, and ensuring utility bills were canceled during winter months. The budget cannot be further reduced, and volunteers have dedicated countless hours to maintain the grounds. Unfortunately, fee participation has only reached approximately 25%, with only six out of 127 households volunteering for pool maintenance. The burden on these families is high during the summer in order to provide safe and clean pool availability for our entire neighborhood. Increased participation from all neighbors is imperative for the Club's continued operation.

LOOKING TO THE FUTURE

The success or failure of the Club hinges upon us all. Success translates to enhanced property values and an improved quality of life for everyone. Conversely, failure could result in the grounds deteriorating into an eyesore plagued by crime and litter, while we all remain liable for associated costs. Please pay the fees, volunteer your time where possible, and actively engage in our community efforts. I am open to any discussions, inquiries, or suggestions regarding the Club. Let's work together to ensure the prosperity of our shared space.