August 2003
There was a time when I struggled to cut three acres of lawn, sometimes as often as twice a week. I painted my own home and replaced the roof at one point. As well, I cut and split up to ten cords of firewood every summer---ours was a wood-burning furnace. What kept me going was a projected move to California and to a homeowner's association such as Villa Monterey. On arrival I paid and paid gladly the association assessment. Not having to do all that I had once done seemed too good to be true.
The dues I'm paying today, however, are somewhat more than those I paid ten years ago. That's because the cost of goods and services are increasing, by some estimates between 7 and 10 percent a year. What's a Board to do? We look at every expenditure, of course. But we can't afford not to paint and replace rotted wood, even as we need to replace patio fences and light poles. A recent article in the San Diego paper makes the point that homeowner dues must inevitably go up. Your Board's responsibility is to see that your monies are spent wisely - that we get the most bang for our buck. We can't stand still, can't go back. Can't temporize or put off what needs doing.
Matthew Vidosh has been painting in the San Diego area since 1986 and started MVP in 1997. MVP's goal is to remain a small, family-oriented company in order to provide daily customer contact and friendly service. His wife, Laurie, and her brother, Brad, join Matt to make up the MVP family.
MVP has been working with the Villa Monterey association for the past five years and has enjoyed a friendly working relationship with the homeowners. We understand that there is some inconvenience with the painting of your home, so please feel free to approach them at any time with your thoughts and concerns or just to say hello. They will do their best to accommodate your needs.
On a recent Saturday morning, a homeowner on the pool greenbelt was happily doing the crossword puzzle in the daily paper when a fitting on her water heater literally gave way. Within minutes her downstairs was inundated in warm water. And it is just this sort of disaster that can come anyone's way. It is important to keep track of the installation date of your heater. If in doubt as to its age, call a plumber.
There are bicycle racks right outside the pool area because bicycles are NOT allowed in the pool area. Please obey this rule. It is there for your safety.
Call Janet 279-5295 if you have any story contributions for the next Monterey Message.
Robert became a resident of Villa Monterey in November of 1973 and Barbara moved here two months later. They have been neighbors for over 29 years. On Saturday, May 31, 2003 they became husband and wife. Congratulations!
If you are familiar with our pool greenbelt, you may have seen two large black dogs on a tandem leash walking their owner - not the reverse. The large of the two, Pelletier, was a true gentleman, always ready to say "howdy" to one and all. But, over the 4th of July, a tragedy befell that loving dog. His hindquarters failed him and not even massive cortisone shots made a difference - he just couldn't walk. His owners reached a decision that many animal owners and lovers have had to make - they sent their pet home. Pelletier will be missed by Coco, his buddy, and by the Marshes with whom he made his home for the past nine years. Farewell, sweet prince.
The next homeowner's meeting will be on Wednesday, August 13th at 6:00 p.m. All homeowners are encouraged to attend.
© Copyright 2003 Villa Monterey HOA
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