Note to email Subscribers: Check your junk mail! Also, if you’re attending a Teams meeting for Hilltop, check your junk mail and drag over to regular inbox in order to receive in the future.
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Sept 23, 2024
After much work and shocking the affected well, we have clean water tests. After talking with IDEM they have agreed to lift the boil water advisory.
July 13, 2024
We are noticing adults and children not following our park rules. You may be fined for not following the rules, up to and including lease termination. Download our rules in the rules/regs/forms section here on our website.
There should be NO airborne fireworks, ever, no matter the time of year.
Do not use other member’s docks (unless received permission by the member). The dock provided for each lot is for the private use of the member (and their family and guests).
Please keep children OFF THE ROCKS. Volunteers restored some of our seawall again this summer, and we see children walking on them or throwing them in the lake.
Do not walk through members lots, even if there are steps, these are not common grounds.
GOLF CARTS:
1. The motorized vehicle and non-motorized vehicle speed limit while on all Park property is 10 M.P.H.
2. All golf cart drivers must have been issued a valid driver’s license issued from any state. Operators possessing a Learner’s Permit may operate a vehicle, only when accompanied by a passenger in the front seat next to them 18 or older. The passenger must possess a valid and current state Operator’s License.
3. All motorized vehicles to be operated on the Park grounds must have proper liability insurance.
4. Motorized vehicles will be maintained in a safe mechanical condition as it relates to steering control and braking control.
5. Motorized vehicles will not be operated between dusk and dawn unless they have a proper functioning head lamp.
6. Lot identification numbers, 1” minimum in height, must appear on the outside of the vehicle on the driver’s side.
7. The Cooperative reserves the right to fine any Member of the Park for failing to adhere to the above items. The fines will be in accordance with the terms set out by the BOD.
Most of all, please be respectful, use common sense at all times, and watch your children so the park does not have to police these issues.
Thank you and have a safe summer!
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April 25, 2024
Recent dock and golf cart storage schematics:
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April 24, 2024
REMINDERS:
Please check your boats and trailers in the boat field. Have them marked with your lot number on the front or tongue of the trailer. If your watercraft is not on a trailer, please mark it accordingly. Please mow around your trailer and watercraft to keep things looking nice this summer and stack your cinder blocks neatly to make it easier to mow. If questions, contact Steve on BOD contact list.
Make sure your trailer skirting is in good condition or repaired.
You are responsible to mow your own lots.
No storage of items, or trash, on your lot or common grounds.
Next sewer payment is due April 30.
Spring member meeting and clean-up day is May 18th.
Dues and assessments are due on June 1.
These reminders (invoicing and emails) are a courtesy of our volunteer Board of Directors. It is your responsibility to follow the rules and regulations/bylaws of Hilltop.
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HILLTOP PARK SPRING NEWSLETTER 2024
Dear Hilltop Members,
I hope that the Holidays and the New Year find you in good health and looking forward to taking on 2024 head on as we are getting into some warm weather…..at last. The Board of Directors and the various committees have all been meeting through the winter, and are moving forward with several projects.
· Please refer to the Hilltop website at hilltoppark.info as your first choice for up to date information, such as board contact, important dates, forms and FAQS
· Make sure that items in the boat field are marked with your lot number. Some additional items may be placed in the field with written board approval
· Please take time to go over the latest version of the Rules and Regulations before the season so you are in compliance.
· Make sure that reverse flow valves have been installed to ALL outdoor water spigots
· We strongly encourage you to participate in our annual Clean Up Day to be held immediately after the spring meeting. Non participation fees for clean-up day are still $75, and will be enforced. Vice President Carol Hart is the contact person for this project.
· Please contact the Improvement Chair any time that you are considering making improvements on your property, at least one month before you plan to start no matter how small you think the project is. You MAY not need to go through the request protocol if the Chair decides that the project, in his judgement, does not require it. Please check with the Rules and Regulations or the Improvements Chair if you have any questions. Also please be aware of the new improvement form on the website.
· The Official, most up to date rules will be found on the website. Any copies of Rules and Regulations dated PRIOR to July 2023 may be considered out of date in some areas.
· As voted on by the members, we will have the hills cut once this summer. It is scheduled to be done by the 4th of July.
· IMPORTANT DATES:
May 18th- Spring Membership Meeting. Clean Up Day immediately following
June 1st - Regular assessment due (Dues)
September 23rd-Fall Membership Meeting. Passing of budget, and Board of Directors election
The Garage Committee is still in the process of receiving and analyzing bids from the various local contractors that we have been working with. At this time, the committee is looking at how to best proceed. You can expect there will be more on this subject at the Spring Meeting.
As mentioned in the last newsletter, the Board of Directors is now reviewing the information supplied by the Dock Committee. The Board has come up with a tentative plan that will be submitted to the Indiana Department of Natural Resources. This plan is included in an attachment. They will need to approve any plan that we are considering because the plan is to replace the entire structure, commonly referred to as the back docks. As many of you will remember, in 2019 and 2020 the Co-op had the “front” areas dredged, seawalls constructed, and facilitated the installation of new docks for members in that area. This was at the total cost of about $110,000.00, some of which was paid for out of available funds, a bank loan (that will be paid off in 2025), and the individual docks were paid for by the member. At the time, there was a mutual understanding that when we were finished with the front docks, we would address the back docks. That time is now, as the wood is rotting and the poles are rusting through in some cases. The board has chosen a plan that they feel satisfies the mission statement as presented to the dock committee. They took into account the suggestions of four professional dock installation companies. They took into consideration the suggestions of the dock committee. Board of Directors and committee members floated the area and took depth soundings and probed the bottom in areas of concern. The goal is to; Maximize our available space, increase boat slips from the current number, widen boat spaces to a standard 11ft per boat, create a safe structure, and keep costs in line with what the membership finds acceptable. The membership will have to vote on any money spent towards this project.
The By Law Revision Committee has been meeting regularly through the winter and has made great progress. Due to the approaching lake season, and the need to concentrate on more time sensitive issues, we have temporarily put the By Law revisions on the back burner. We still hope to have something to be reviewed by the membership by this summer. The final goal is that the By Laws will be simplified, purged of conflicting areas, and brought into the digital era.
The phone poll to members has been completed. For those to whom I spoke, thank you for your time and suggestions. If I did not speak to you, it is because I attempted to call our last good number, got no answer and left at least three messages. If you were not contacted, and desire to make your opinions or concerns known, please feel free to reach out to me at 260 312 1520. We have gained a lot of information that otherwise may not have been brought to our attention. You will find the results of the poll attached (see your email).
A couple of members are in the early stages of developing a park wide aluminum can recycling program. It has been observed that, as a community, we seem to go through a large number of aluminum cans during the course of the summer………some more than others. This will be on a trial basis and we will be exploring whether it is worth it to collect these dead soldiers and turn them in for money for the benefit of the park. Any ideas and volunteers can contact a board member with their suggestions. Somebody mentioned the potential of paying off the National Debt, but I think we may want to set our goals to a lower, more realistic goal.
Thank You,
Wade DeSelm, President
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Here is a list of members that have golf cart storage for the winter. LINK: WINTER GOLF CART STORAGE 2023/2024 LIST
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FALL 2023 HILLTOP NEWSLETTER
IMPORTANT DATES 2024
May 2024 Mailing of 2024 Maintenance Dues
May 1 2024 Winter Storage Ends-Summer Storage Begins
May 15 2024 All member’s homes are to be in Compliance with IDEM-Back Flow Valves
May 18 2024 Spring Membership Meeting 10:00 a.m.
May 18 2024 Park Clean Up Day
May 27 2024 Memorial Day
June 1 2024 2024 Maintenance Fees Due *Mail to PO Box 112 Angola, IN 46703
August 24 2024 Fall Membership Meeting 10:00 a.m.
October 1 2024 Winter Storage Begins-Summer Storage Ends
GENERAL INFORMATION
Snow fences on A level near front docks and swim hole were placed to discourage snowmobilers from riding over our seawall to get to the ice.
Speed bumps were removed for the winter
Point furniture is in storage
Please make sure IDEM mandated backflow valves are installed on your outside spigots Before Spring
BOARD/MEMBER COMMUNICATION
We have come a long way with regard to how the BOD and Hilltop Members stay connected and informed. Like other progressing businesses entities, we are relying more and more on electronic communication. The BOD has spent a lot of time to address member concerns about transparency with regard what we are doing, our plans, and our vision for the future. Also, it is important that the members have a convenient portal to let the BOD know of their individual or collective concerns. If you have a question or would like to have the latest updates, we strongly suggest accessing the website. www.Hilltoppark.info. This is the recommended way to voice concerns, check out the Rules and Regulations, and download various forms. In addition, there is a page that allows you to address problems, and make comments. If you choose, you can register to have updates sent directly to your email. If there is a matter that requires immediate action by the board, please feel free to reach out via telephone. All board members have their phone numbers posted along with their respective positions on the board. We value your input and encourage you to use these resources to connect with your Hilltop Board.
HILLTOP COMMITTEES (GENERAL)
We are fortunate enough to have four legitimate functioning committees in our coop. They are as follows:
· Dock Committee
· Storage Garage Committee
· By Law Revision Committee
· Tree Committee
These committees are made up of volunteers. There are approximately 15 members on all four committees. These committees allow members to be involved in the improvement and vision of the park, without the commitment of being on the BOD. ALL of the committees have done a remarkable job. Its this kind of involvement that makes our coop operate and improve. Also, we greatly appreciate all of the individuals, who on their own, without being asked, donate their time and resources working on various tasks throughout the lake season and during the off season. Without their efforts, our jobs would be much harder. Thank You! You know who you are.
DOCK COMMITTEE
The dock committee was formed this past spring. It was tasked with exploring ways to replace our dock system on the south part of the property (The Back Docks). They were to submit dock layout ideas that would maximize our space, widen the area between the docks, and have this accomplished so that the finished product will be safe and able to park more boats if necessary. Also, they were to contact vendors to come to the park and give professional estimates. The BOD is happy to report that they did an outstanding job. They met several times and had 3 or 4 dock installation companies submit bids. They turned the information that was gathered over to the BOD. As part of the next step, the BOD is now discussing and dissecting this information in order to develop a tentative dock layout which can be submitted to the Indiana Department of Natural Resources for approval.
STORAGE GARAGE COMMITTEE
Much progress has been made to come up with a workable process to allow park members, if they choose, to build a storage garage in the boat storage field. The cost of these units will be 100% financed by the members who choose to build. No cost will be incurred by the Corporation or those who choose not to build. The committee has been in contact with the Steuben County Building Department, as well as the Assessor’s office, and the Indiana Department of Environmental Management. Additionally, they have met with Rolland and Associates Engineering, and Crawford Excavators as well as four Local builders. They have also visited several finished garage projects in the area, including the ongoing Jimmerson Shores project. At this time, the committee is collecting bids from the various builders. The committee ,following the suggestion of Steuben County Planning, is using all local contractors and vendors. The very optimistic goal is to begin construction in the spring.
BY LAW REVISION COMMITTEE
Anybody who has been a member of our Co-op for awhile is aware that our “Blue Book” is in need of some serious updating. These original documents, minus the rules and regulations, have been in place since the formation of the Corporation in 1994. This committee will be concentrating on the By Laws only. They will not be dealing with the rules and regulations. The main focus is to bring verbiage and practices up to date with the digital era, and correct contradicting passages. Further, they will simplify some areas while detailing others. The committee has come up with a tentative approach to accomplish this. Right now, they are in the first step. That is, the committee is going over the documents word for word and making corrections and changes. When that is complete, they will turn it over to the BOD for further scrutiny. When it passes the BOD, it will be forwarded to our park attorney for legal approval. Lastly it will be distributed to the membership a couple of weeks before the spring meeting where it will face a final vote.
TREE COMMITTEE
The tree committee has continued with their plan to take care of our trees in a measured and organized manner. Last year was a challenge and they were faced with more tree damaging weather than normal. In spite of this, they have managed to stay within budget, and finish the year in good shape. Several trees were taken down, dangerous limbs removed, and some stumps were taken out. Their first goal was to remove all of the dangerous trees and limbs. This is very near completion. Additionally, planted some soil stabilizing bushes in an area that is prone to erosion. The next phase will be to trim and possibly remove trees that impact members view of our gorgeous lake. This view is a very important consideration when selling or buying a property anywhere around our lake, and if we can accomplish this with a focus on stewardship and conservation, it will redound to the benefit of all members through personal enjoyment and resale values. Of course, dangerous trees and limbs will continue to be a priority. With this in mind, the BOD has increased the tree budget by 50% for the upcoming fiscal year. If you are aware of a tree or limb that may be considered dangerous, please notify the BOD through the website. If you feel it is an emergency situation, please contact a board member by phone.
UPCOMING ACTIONS
There are many projects that are “in the pipeline”. Money has been budgeted for these and plans are in place to make them happen. We will be:
Re-coating the asphalt roads
Replacing some rocks and shoring up the seawall
Tearing down the unsightly well house located near the back docks
Continuing to monitor and maintain the B level sewer line
Installing an automatic thermostat in the well house (Exploring Wi Fi connection)
Purchasing and installing a 12-place kayak and canoe rack by the back docks
§ Installing mail boxes for those members who want one
Continuing with the reseeding, weed control, and poison ivy eradication of the hills where it is needed
Procuring additional Point Furniture (Thanks to donations and raffle money)
Repairing and erecting the flagpole that was purchased from the Fun Spot years ago (Location pending) Suggestions?
Clean up Day will be May 18th 2024. Carol Hart will be the contact person this year
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September 9, 2023 Updates
The BOD met today and in the effort of transparency, we want to keep you informed! Don’t hesitate to reach out to us with questions or rumors.
PLEASE DO NOT place grease in the drains! Someone has been doing this which cost our park recently to unclog due to a sewer backup! We continue to remind members of only water, bodily waste, and TP down drains. NO WIPES of any kind as well. None are actually “flushable”.
Mailboxes will be available and placed in the upcoming year. IF YOU WOULD LIKE A MAILBOX, please reach out to the BOD. You will need to PURCHASE THE MAILBOX FROM THE BOARD.
Garage planning is underway! You were asked to complete a survey during the fall member meeting. Please return those to Richard Fradette who is leading this project.
Coming soon! We are going to purchase two kayak racks that will hold six kayaks each and place them near the back docks.
Thank you ALL who organized and raised more money for the point furniture! Our current furniture will be placed in the garage for the off-season. And more furniture will be purchased for placement next season.
Due to damage from snowmobilers, etc., our rock seawalls will need repaired with some new rock. Thank you, Jeff Nedelco for agreeing to do this work!
The dock committee has been investing their time to research and develop recommendations for the back docks. The BOD has the recommendations for review. Thank you, dock committee!
The hills will be seeded again this fall to prevent erosion. Thank you, Jeff Nedelco for doing this work! Also cutting and spraying weeds!
If you have improvements that you would like to make - please see the rules and regs section/checklist on the website prior to ANY project, big or small. You are required to get preapproval.
August 5, 2023 Reminder
The fall meeting is coming up on August 26th at 10am. See you soon!
June 3, 2023 Updates
If you were down by the point last weekend you may have noticed some new furniture on the patio. It looks great and is something your BOD and park members have been working on for the last nine months but the job is not complete, therefore we are asking for your help. Multiple park members have voluntarily donated extra money to this cause and Dave Moore donated part of his winnings from the 50-50 drawing at chili fest last fall. We are asking for more members to do the same. Please consider donating. Any amount will be appreciated. Send donations to Hilltop Park using the same address as you pay your dues/sewer payments to or just give it to Carol Hart, our treasurer. 100% of the money will be earmarked and used exclusively for point furniture. The plan is to buy an additional table and chairs for this area. We appreciate any support you can provide.
Clean up day was a success! If you did not have a role in clean up day, please look for your invoice.
We have a new trash bin! Thanks to members involved in making that happen!
REMINDER of your dues that are due! See calendar on website for all due dates.
Just a few reminders concerning our Rules and Regulations:
· Speed limit for all golf and automobiles within the Park is 10 MPH
· Golf carts must have lights for after dark operating
· Any use of COMMON ground must be approved by the BOD
· When using the brush pile ONLY, burn as you go if possible
· Nothing in the dumpster other than BAGGED trash
· Any suggestions or concerns about Park issues, please communicate with the BOD
April 21, 2023 Updates
1. Trash - there are electrical wires making it difficult for Republic to reach our trash bin. A smaller trash bin is in place until this is resolved.
2. Clean-up day (refer to calendar on the website for dates) - please email Lisa Hollister regarding your participation.
3. Spring meeting - please see calendar for date/time/location.
April 12, 2023 Updates
As usual, the Hilltop Board has been hard at work all winter. We have the following updates:
1. The new well house generator is working well. The old generator will be auctioned during our meeting.
2. The board is considering an update to our bylaws. More to come on that.
3. Our new quarterly sewer payment is $241.92/per quarter. The board voted to clarify the wording in the rules and regulations stating the fine ($50) for being late will occur each calendar month the payment is in arrears.
4. Reminder: Our hills will be mowed twice this year. We are requesting that the mowing take place the last two weeks of June and the last two weeks of August.
5. There are still docks available for rent this year for members only. Please reach out to Jeff Nedelco for questions.
6. We've noticed extra trailers in the boat field. Please, no unapproved trailer storage in our member boat field. If you have an unapproved trailer, reach out to any board member to gain approval.
7. Please call NIPSCO if you have an interest in gas being ran to your site, as mentioned in member meetings. If we have enough interest, it may be possible to obtain.
8. Lots of discussion on our sewer system and its integrity.
9. We've had more trees fall and due to the volunteers at Hilltop, clean up went smoothly. Thank you, Hilltop members! We continue to work on the tree situation, and hill stability.
10. Dues and budget assessment, $1,375 are due June 1st.
11. The clean-up day list will be sent by Lisa soon! Make sure you sign up.
As always, please see www.Hilltoppark.info for more information, and our Facebook site!
Thank you, and we look forward to seeing everyone this summer!
Your Hilltop Board
Sent on behalf of the Hilltop BOD by the Hilltop Board Secretary
MARCH 11, 2023 Reminders
The new sewer amount due per quarter effective for APRIL PAYMENT: $241.92
Call NIPSCO if you have an interest in gas being ran to your site, as mentioned in member meetings. If we have enough interest, it may be possible to obtain.
December 2022 Update
Your Board has been hard at work since our last member meeting in August. Below are things that we wanted to make you aware of.
1. Your Board elected new positions at the 1st meeting. The new lineup is below. (SOME CONTACT INFO MAY CHANGE AFTER, PLEASE CLICK ON BOARD OF DIRECTORS FOR MOST CURRENT INFORMATION.)
President: Wade DeSelm, 260-312-1520, toothmanwd@comcast.net
Vice-President: Lisa Hollister, 260-704-5552, Hollister51@msn.com
Treasurer: Carol Hart, 317-908-3082, Carolht5353@gmail.com
Secretary: Stew Brown, 765-730-3045, Scbrown6813@gmail.com
Improvements: Dan Leonard, 317-385-3939, Djleonard1@sbcglobal.net
Dockmaster: Jeff Nedelco, 419-307-4101, 2jjnedelco@gmail.com
At-Large: Deborah Yeagle, 419-680-1186, Loftypine@yahoo.com
Webmaster and Social Media: Lisa Hollister, 270-704-5552, Hollister51@msn.com
2. Dave Moore, our long-time maintenance person, submitted his resignation effective Nov. 4, 2022. Dave was our maintenance person for over 15+ years and helped guide many of the projects occurring within the park. The Board thanks Dave for his many years of dedication and his willingness to help. When you see Dave next, please thank him.
3. The Board unanimously agreed to not replace the maintenance person position at this time. Should an emergency or a situation occur, please contact a board member at the phone numbers or email addresses above. We are developing a list of subcontractors to be called should they be needed. It was felt the board could effectively manage these duties. If that proves false, we may contact members asking if anyone is willing to serve in this capacity.
4. The Board unanimously approved the purchase of a new propane run, automatic generator for the well house. This was brought forward as a safety issue. Since we have year-round water with multiple members staying throughout the winter, the wellhouse must be heated or the pipes/pumps would freeze. A power outage during the winter would place the water supply in jeopardy. Presently, we have a generator which must be manually hooked up to power in a fashion referred to as a “suicide hookup”. This hook up presents danger/liability to the park and an electrical contractor stated it was dangerous and not up to code. The new setup shuts on and off automatically during power outages and only requires refilling of the propane tank. No member needs to participate. This project was approximately $4000. The Blue Book allows the board to spend over $1000 for emergency/utility repairs for the function of the park.
5. The Board approved the purchase of a new basketball goal for the basketball court on C level. It was purchased now at a 60% discount off list price. It is about $700. The goal will be installed during the spring cleanup next May.
6. The board voted to use any money collected for “non participation” in the spring clean-up, (a $75 fine) to purchase plants and maintenance items to be used in the next clean-up.
7. The board has planted flower seeds and shrubs on the hillsides to see how they look/take root. The board specifically discussed not using anything which would grow and eventually block members' views. This fall they began to take hold and added some fall color to the hillside.
8. The fall Chili party seemed to be a success and enjoyed by all. Thanks to all who helped organize and make the day a success. Special shout out to Carol, Pam, Kylie, Erica, Zak, Josh, and Stacy for your work on this event. As part of the day, a 50-50 lottery was available with proceeds earmarked for new patio furniture for the point. It was a success with $240 raised. Dave Moore, the 50-50 winner, donated part of his winnings back to the patio fund. Additionally, 3 park members each donated an extra $100, and a 4thpark member donated an additional $120. Your board unanimously voted to add $1000 to this project. So, we have approximately $1660 available at present. More members are free to donate, just send your donation to Carol Hart using the same address you pay your quarterly sewer payments to and say it is for the patio fund. We will begin pricing new furniture this winter/spring.
9. As an FYI: The park is required by the IDEM (Indiana Department of Environmental Management) to test the water in the park on a regular basis (quarterly) and submit a sterile sample to them for testing. This fall the water tested positive for coliform bacteria twice. This is not unusual per the IDEM. The IDEM has a protocol for situations like this which includes adding chlorine to the well. This is also known as “shocking the well”. This may cause your water to have a swimming pool smell for a short time but causes no harm if ingested. After this was done, the water tested negative. Reports are required to be filed with the IDEM and those have been completed. Follow-up with the IDEM by phone reassured your board the water is safe for all uses including drinking and they do not have any further recommendations/precautions. The IDEM’s next sample is due the 1st quarter of 2023 at the routine time.
Let us know if you have ideas you would like brought up for discussion.
Thanks, Hilltop Board
Sent on behalf of the Hilltop BOD by the Hilltop Board Secretary
August 2022 Update
1. Three Board positions are up for election in August 2022 at the Fall Member’s Meeting. If you would like to run, please submit your intention to the BOD by August 13th, 2022. We will get you on the ballot.
2. Someone used weed killer on part of the B-C hill, killing most of the vegetation. This could lead to more erosion of the hillside. Please don’t do this. We value our property.
3. Mowing the A-B and B-C hillsides: Members voted to mow the hillsides twice a year at the Spring 2022 members meeting. We ask our present mowing contractor, Tate Cook for a bid. It took many weeks to get a bid back. The bid was $2250 each time they mow or a total of $4500 each summer. We are presently in the July 1, 2022, to June 30, 2023, fiscal year. There is no money in the budget for this expense, so it was tabled to the fall meeting for further discussion. A special meeting with a vote on a special assessment may be needed to do any mowing this summer or it could be add to the budget for 2023-2024 (which starts July 1st of 2023) which is voted on at the fall meeting.
4. Reminders:
a. You must have a valid driver’s license to operate a golf cart in Hilltop or have a Learner’s permit with an adult over 18 years of age in the seat next to you who has a valid license.
b. Dogs must be always under owner control
c. If you have cement blocks/wooden blocks in the boat field, they should be inside the area you mow…. not out in the field at large. This really helps the people who mow for us.
d. Please pick up dog waste including in common areas…. let’s keep the park nice. Please don’t toss animal waste over the hillside.
e. Garages Subcommittee update from Ed Short: Meeting July 2, 2022, with park attorney. KEY Takeaways:
*need to meet with the Steuben Co. Planning Commission and let them be the "expert' on how we can achieve our goals.
*this project will take years to get to the point where the 1st building would be constructed.
*do not expect to make everyone happy, but through compromise & strategic planning we can make this happen
*writing an "EverGreen" Lease Agreement per the attorney….allows for a forever lease per lot and would help with lot owner financing
*common ground infrastructure construction (with S.C.Planning Comm. directions) could or will be a major hurdle to plan for.
More to come on garages at the fall meeting.
P.S. A board member would like to share a good way to pick up pet waste and get rid of it:
If you drink purchased coffee, save, and dry the cups and lids then place them in a plastic bag. Use the cap to gather up the waste and scoop it into the cup. It is very easy to do. Then put the lid on the cup. This keeps the smell inside the cup. You can set the plastic bag of cups/lids on the back of your golf cart or put it in a bag and take them on a walk. When we take our garbage to the dumpster, it ready to go. Very easy, no touching, and the grass is clean. I collect cups all year long. Deb Yeagle
May 2022 Updates
If you're planning ANY improvements (examples: paint, decks, sheds, gravel, trees shrubs, ANY) this year, please get approval from the board FIRST. When in doubt, ask.
Instead of installing a mirror at level A, speed bumps and signage will be installed.
Buckwheat will be planted on the A-level hill this spring.
All Pets need to be re-registered with BOD (get a copy of the pet reg. form)
- Indiana is a 1st bite state
- Steuben County ordinance #821 “Animals at Large”
- Steuben County animal control number: 260-833-2877
See the fee schedule posted for updates.
REMINDERS:
· Sale of all trailers must be approved by the BOD and go through the Hilltop attorney.
· Members are responsible for any damage or liability – get homeowners insurance.
February 10, 2022 - Fourth Quarter (2021) Summary Review
1. We held a special member meeting in 2021 to vote on paying the road and water line loan in full. The motion did not pass.
2. Our postmaster shared with the Hilltop Board that we would need to provide 44 mailboxes (one for each lot) if we change from our single Hilltop mailbox. We will pass on the opportunity for now due to the cost being around $5000.
3. Reminders:
a. All of your dogs and visitor dogs MUST be under owner control (example: leash) at all times, and your pets must be registered. Owner may be held criminally liable.
b. If you're planning ANY improvements (examples: paint, decks, sheds, gravel, trees shrubs, ANY) this year, please get approval from the board. When in doubt, ask.
c. Member trailer insurance: your board has recommended that each member have homeowners insurance to cover damages to your trailer and personal liability of $300,000.
d. We continue to ask each of you to work with your neighbor to establish mutually agreed upon lot lines between trailers.
e. If you would like to rent an extra dock space or garage space, please let the board know and follow the timelines for payment as previously described.
4. We had the sewers on B-level scoped. There is damage which will require repair. The extent, cost and implementation of this is still being determined. We hope this leads to a permanent solution to the sewer problems on B-level.
5. We are researching the following improvements:
a. Feasibility of installing a safety mirror at the curve on A-level hill.
b. Hill plan between Level's A and B, ie, grass etc.
c. Adding more planned social events.
Thank you,
Your Hilltop Board: Stew, Lisa, Michele, Carol, Dave, and Deb
January 31, 2022 - Reminders
Please make sure you carry trailer and liability insurance.
Please don’t flush anything down your toilets other than what comes from humans. No wipes, etc. in order to maintain our septic system for the park.
Please contain your pets and make sure you register them.
Spring clean up will be here before you know it - reach out to Lisa Hollister for the list of items, and what you would like to sign up for.
If you have questions, reach out to the board. Thank you.
October 5, 2021 - Third Quarter Summary Review
Dear Hilltop Family,
We hope the summer was great for you and your families. Thanks for all you do to keep our park beautiful!
Here is a quick update of what has been happening so far this quarter:
• We continue to hold Monthly BOD meetings to review operations of the park.
• The Park welcomed new members Brent and Kathy Crow to A6. Mike Closson will be missed.
• Thanks to many of you for meeting with your neighbors to agree to your lot boundaries. About 1/3 of the members are complete. Please keep this going.
• “B” level sewer “scoping” has been delayed but is still planned.
o The good news is that due to member “flushing diligence” we have not experienced any “back-ups” this Summer. Thank you – this saves the park inconvenience and $$$
o We did experience a clean out charge from a foreign substance blockage in one of our lift stations – but this was believed to have been a result of the incident last Winter.
• Tree Trimming is was completed as “Part 1” of our 2 year tree management project.
• Thanks to Jim Kirkpatrick, now retired from his many years of service on the BOD! Welcome to the Board Deborah Yeagle!
Reminders:
• Again, we want to remind everyone to please watch your SPEED in the park. Happily, we have lots of little ones running about and we need to be careful.
• We are always looking for ideas for park improvements. Please send us your ideas!
Upcoming Events:
• Saturday, October 9th,
o 9:00 AM, at the garage – a short special meeting is scheduled for all members meet to vote on retiring our loan debt early and to save the park money. Please attend or send your proxy.
o Immediately following the meeting, there is an opportunity to help split wood (hydraulic log splitters will be provided). All able-bodied persons are requested to help. This is wood that came from the tree trimming and after splitting will be available for all park member camp fires!!! Help may also be needed on Sunday.
o Don’t forget the chili party in the afternoon from 2:00 to 5:00 on “C” level. There will be a bouncy house and games for the kids - as well as adult games and music… and of course great food. (See the chili party flyer sent earlier.)
Thoughts or questions for us? Please address any suggestions and/or questions to Michele, our Park Secretary at hilltopparkbod@gmail.com.
Best wishes – see you at the lake!
Your Hilltop Park BOD: Stew, Lisa, Michele, Deb, Carol, Dave, & Dan
Find us at our Website: https://www.hilltoppark.info
September 24, 2021
VERY IMPORTANT MESSAGE TO ALL MEMBERS: Your Board is calling a special members meeting on Oct. 9, 2021 at 9am in the garage to vote on a special assessment. The meeting will be very short. Please see your email for further information. Thank you!
Please join us for the Annual Hilltop Park Chili Party, October 9 from 2-5pm, at the C-level field basketball court area. Hot dogs/buns, napkins, plates, & tableware will be provided by the Park. Please bring a pot of your famous chili to throw into the kettle, a side dish to share, and your own beverages. Corn hole and washers will be available to participate, along with special kids’ games. Corn hole tournament will commence at 3:00 pm, This year we are pleased to announce that a kid-friendly bouncy house will be available as well. Contact Carol Hart for question on kids games, and Kyle Mignerey for corn hole tournament sign-up. See your email for the flyer and invitation on Facebook. Thank you!
September 20, 2021
Your BOD is reminding you not to flush anything but human waste and toilet paper down the septic system. Last week, the Park received a bill for $350 from the Steuben Lakes Regional Waste District (SLRWD). Your BOD needs your help with this for the betterment of the Park. See your email for further details and the letter/invoice from SLRWD. Thank you!
Friday, August 27, 2021 — Reminder: The next member meeting is tomorrow! See agenda below…
Reminder: Please bring your lot line paperwork with you to the Fall Membership Meeting! Click on the photo tab above to view your lot photos that were previously placed on your door. Thank you!
HILLTOP FALL 2021 MEMBERSHIP
MEETING
Saturday, August 28, 2021 10:00 a.m., B-Level
Garage
AGENDA
I. Call to Order – Dan Leonard
II. Roll Call – Michele Short
III. Approval of Spring 2021 Membership Meeting Minutes – Michele Short
IV. Distribution of Ballots for Board of Director Open Position (1)
Introduction of candidates
V. Treasurer’s Report – Carol Hart
Review of 2021 YTD Budget and 2022-2023 Proposed YTD Budget – PUT TO VOTE
Miscellaneous
o PUT TO VOTE – Early loan payoff
VI. Maintenance Update – Dave Moore
B Level Scoping
Trash Bin Camera
VII. Old Business
Lot Lines Update – Stew Brown
Park Business Plan Recap – Stew Brown
Park Tree Update – Tree Chair, Jeanne Sircey
Piers Update – Dave Moore
Park Member Mailboxes – Dave Moore – PUT TO VOTE
o Gang multi mailbox or pigeon post
Weed Control – Carol Hart
Website/Board Updates/Facebook-Membership Information Sources – Lisa Hollister
BOD Meetings Recap – Dan Leonard
VIII. New Business
Rules & Regulations – Trapping Rule Addition – Dan Leonard/Michele Short
Mobile Maintenance/Property Condition Report – Dan Leonard
Downed Timber from Tree Maintenance/log splitter rental – Dave Moore
Fall Chili Party/Membership Interest – Dave Moore
IX. Adjournment
March 24, 2021: Hilltop 2021 - 1st Quarter Summary Review
Dear Hilltop Family,
It’s almost “Lake Time” and we are all looking forward to seeing each other and getting back out on the water! As we start 2021, we hope you and your families are all well.
Here is a quick update of what has been happening so far this quarter:
• We continue to hold monthly BOD meetings
• We have approved and completed the Sale of B17 to the Ron Smith family – managed for the first time by our park attorney, Jeff Goeglein.
• The process of obtaining bids for garage repair and the mowing contract is ongoing and should be completed soon.
• We are moving forward with developing a proposal (to share at the spring meeting) to better define lot lines between our trailers. A land surveyor will need to be involved and quotes will be obtained. This will help make borders clear when we want to make improvements (decks, new trailers, etc.) as well as provide clear lot definition whenever a buyer wants to take out a mortgage.
• A policy for document retention is being developed for all of our “important papers”.
• “B” level sewer issues are being addressed.
Questions for you:
• Does anyone want to have an individual mailbox at Hilltop? Your board is looking into costs and logistics – but would like to know how many people might be interested. Current thinking is that it could be a “multi-box” located up near the C level road or across from the dumpster. Ideas welcome.
• Would you like to rent an extra dock space? The park currently has 4 available. Please let us know by email if you are interested (the current schematic of what is available is here on our website under rules and regs link).
Reminder: Please keep in mind that it is your responsibility to maintain liability insurance on your lot/trailer. It is inexpensive and covers you “just in case”.
Thoughts or questions for us? Please address any suggestions and/or questions to Michele, our Park Secretary at hilltopparkbod@gmail.com. (And there is a contact link on this website.)
Best wishes – see you at the lake!
Your Hilltop Park BOD: Lisa, Stew, Michele, Jim, Carol, Dave, & Dan
Find us at our website: https://www.hilltoppark.info
_____________________________
February 22, 2021
NOTICE:
PLEASE DO NOT FLUSH WIPES/BABY WIPES - This may cause a sewer issue as such that occurred on February 21, 2021 requiring repair.
Thank you,
Hilltop Board: Dan, Lisa, Michele, Carol, Jim, Dave, and Stew
___________________________
Hilltop 2020 - 4th Quarter Summary Review
Dear Hilltop Family,
We are sending this note because at the Fall meeting, some of you told us that you wanted more information about what was happening in the Park, in addition to the Fall and Spring Membership Meeting update.
As we come to the end of 2020, we wanted to share with you a few of the things that your Board of Directors have accomplished and a few items that are in process.
Completed Items:
• Installed a new Hilltop sign
• Reviewed and updated liability insurance for the Park
• Approved new trailer on Lot C2 for Spring 2021
• Treated the cat tail weeds
• Completed final inspection of mudslide correction
• Met with the Park Attorney (Jeff Goeglein) o Manage the sale/purchase of trailers for complete legal documentation
o General legal advice for the betterment of the Park and other matters such as clean up wording in the Blue Book and Rules & Regs, etc.
• Discussed the Park finances (P&L) each month o Financial data is now in QuickBooks - improved long-term fiscal mgmt. & planning
Ongoing Items:
• Obtaining bids:
o Repair the garage roof and doors
o Update the mowing contract
Projects in Early Stages:
• Starting work to develop more clearly defined “lot lines” between neighbors to prevent misunderstandings and to improve the buy/sell process. Park drawings are being reviewed and aerial photography is being obtained.
Long Term Projects:
• The retention and management of our Hilltop “important papers” has been discussed but not truly addressed. Help is welcome from any members who have expertise in this area.
We hope that this note gives you a quick snapshot of what is happening at Hilltop. Please address any suggestions and/or questions to hilltopparkbod@gmail.com.
Best wishes for safe and happy holidays,
Your Hilltop Park BOD
Lisa, Stew, Michele, Jim, Carol, Dave, & Dan
2020 Summer Newsletter
HELLO Hilltop Members,
Hope everyone is staying SAFE and ENJOYING this beautiful summer! The air is hot and the water is warm!!
We now have a Community Library located in the garage area for members to take books and exchange books to enjoy at your leisure. ENJOY!!!!
FYI…in order to keep our only trash bin from overflowing every weekend, Steuben County has given us a very convenient recycling center a few miles down the road. Turn at Lawnscape business off of 200 and follow it back to several bins for all types of plastics, cardboard, cans and other items. No need to separate items, just dump them in. It would really help if we all tried to improve the “footprint” of our community by using this facility!
Our Park is looking good these days, still some areas that need improvement…but keep up the good work!!! Trailers are selling like hotcakes..2 more are available. For information contact Michele Short.
The Parks’ sewer bill from SLRWD (Steuben Lakes Regional Waste District) has a slight increase for 2020. When 2020 payments were established, December was not included. Therefore, an additional 2020 invoice will be assessed, including the 2020 increase difference. That invoice amount will be $88.26. In order to prepare for 2021, Carol Hart our Treasurer has contacted SLRWD about amounts for 2021. The decision for 2021 rates will not be known until December 2020. Expect an increase. Carol will send out new quarterly invoices starting in January 2021. This will be discussed at the Fall Meeting.
Just a few reminders concerning our Rules and Regulations:
· Speed limit for all golf and automobiles within the Park is 10 MPH
· Golf carts must have lights for after dark operating
· Any use of COMMON ground must be approved by the BOD
· When using the brush pile ONLY, burn as you go if possible
· Nothing in the dumpster other than BAGGED trash
· Any suggestions or concerns about Park issues, please communicate with the BOD
Your Cooperation is appreciated.
Our Hilltop BOD operates with no less than 4 and no more than 7 members for 3-year terms. We presently have 3 open positions available. If interested submit your name to BOD within 10 days of the Fall Meeting (August 29, 2020). BOD meets once a month and at the Spring and Fall Member meetings. It’s a great opportunity for new BOD members to become familiar as to how our co-op operates and will be able to contribute to safe and reasonable decisions for all Park members and their properties.
There are Winter and Summer storage areas in the garage available. Please contact Carol Hart for information.
With all our Hilltop efforts we have succeeded to move forward in keeping our Park improving from year to year!!! Great Job Members!!!
