News

President’s Report – November 2019

Kim Fuller
President

It has been two and a half years since I was elected to the Board, and the morning sunrise is still magnificent as the first light breaks across the horizon casting a red glow on the mountains. This paradise has so much to offer all of us. How can you not stop to look around, say hello to a neighbor, and realize . . . it’s perfect?

In this article, I wish I could report the outcome of all that is happening but, because this article is due 30 days before printing, I don’t have answers for you now on many things. The bulk cable program is still under negotiation, and hopefully by the time you read this we will have a final plan to present to you. If you have not signed up on the e-blast system, please consider doing so. It is the quickest way to get the most up-to-date information as it unfolds. You can up for the e-mail service at scshca.com/emailsignup or by contacting the HOA office.

The final 2020 budget meeting will have already concluded as you read this, and the Board will have voted for next year’s final budget at its October meeting. These are difficult times for financial planning given that the State has mandated minimum wage increases for the next three years. We will have to absorb these costs, which means monthly dues will increase above what we might have hoped. The Board is quite aware of these financial impacts and is working diligently to try to minimize them, but we need to maintain facilities for the benefit of all of us.

Part of the dues increase resulted from our new landscaping contract. The new contractor has more people onsite with increased supervision. The increase of $3.47 per month in our dues has already improved the appearance of the common areas as so many of you have reported.

November brings home many that have been gone for the hot summer months. To all who have been away enjoying other places, welcome back. You will see Sun City Boulevard has been recoated and new lines painted. Hopefully the Santa Rosa pool is done, or almost done, with new plaster. Now that pool cooling devices have been installed at the Santa Rosa pool, those that live in Shadow Hills year-round can enjoy cooler pool water if they desire.

Both golf courses should be about done with re-seeding of the fairways and open for play. I am always amazed at how fast the green grass comes back during this overseeding process and want to thank Troon and staff for a job well done. I have heard from many that the golf courses are in the best condition in years.

We have so many volunteers, working such long hours, to help all of us benefit. I want to thank all the committee members and the Board for taking that time, because as you look around this is a pretty great place to live.

A special thanks to all Veterans on Veterans Day, November 11. Since they have provided a special service we can never repay, please thank them all year long; one day is not enough for what they have done for us.

All in all, we have a lot to be thankful for. So don’t ever forget:  it doesn’t get any better than this!

Kim Fuller
President

Budget Session Video Now Available

Videos from previous budget sessions can be view by clicking here.

President’s Message: Bulk Cable Update

Kim Fuller
President

Good afternoon residents,

I have had some questions in the last two days about the Bulk Cable contract process that I thought needed explanation for everyone. It is true that at this point the Board has no new information to give you regarding the Bulk Cable contract agreement with either Spectrum or Frontier. We have listed our concerns which has been given to both companies.

The Board gave priority to negotiating with Spectrum first because Spectrum was selected by 77% to 23% over Frontier. It was also clear in the survey that 85% of residents want to do something. Once we contacted Spectrum and discussed the contract, it appeared to the Board this process could take some time given Spectrum’s comments in the meetings. It was Spectrum that felt this could take some time.

Given that the process was going to take some time the Board felt it prudent to also begin negotiating contract terms with Frontier, although this process did not begin for about 2 weeks after the negotiations began with Spectrum. The Board has concerns about the contract terms from both companies, so negotiations began with Frontier to minimize time in case a contract with Spectrum was not possible.

At this point we are negotiating with both companies because both companies have contract terms the Board feels need to be changed if we are to proceed. Most of the concerns for the Spectrum contract are the same concerns we have for the Frontier contract. I can’t tell you how this will end up, but the Board is quite aware of the preference of Spectrum over Frontier but is leaving all options open in the best interest of the HOA.

It could be possible that if we don’t reach an agreement with Spectrum, but we do reach an agreement with Frontier, a ballot vote will go out for Frontier. At that point if residents don’t want to proceed with Frontier, they will be able to vote ‘no’ on the ballot for Frontier. This way if residents want Spectrum, and only Spectrum, and nothing else it will become clear.

Hopefully this clarifies how we are proceeding and that both companies have contract issues, so we are trying to work with both companies as quickly as possible to reach a positive conclusion.

Let me know if you have further questions.

Thank you,
Kim Fuller
President

Fitness Video: Knee Health and Stretching

To see more videos by our fitness department, click here.

Bob Hope USO 6th Annual Spirit of Hope Gala

Thursday, November 7, 2019 • 5:00 - 9:00 pm
Agua Caliente Resort Casino Spa • Rancho Mirage

Help us impact 32,000 service members and military families annually in the Desert Area.

Bob Hope USO strengthens America’s military by keeping them connected to family, home and country throughout their service to the nation. Bob Hope USO Desert Area provides USO services and programming to more than 32,000 current members of the military and their families annually through volunteer support at our USO Center at the Palm Springs International Airport, in the community and 29 Palms MCAGCC Marine Base. Investing in Bob Hope USO is a chance for you to have an enduring and meaningful impact on our military’s strength and effectiveness—and on the lives of our courageous service men and women. Show our service members that they are in our hearts and minds and that we will never stop standing by them.

President’s Message: Bulk Cable Update

Kim Fuller
President

Good morning residents,

At this point the Board has no new information to give you regarding the Bulk Cable contract agreement with either Spectrum or Frontier. We have listed our concerns below, and we are still waiting for a response. Our last message from Spectrum is that they will need more time. We are in negotiations with Frontier and are discussing terms of a contract with our legal counsel, FAC representatives, and the Board to try and reach a conclusion that is satisfactory to all parties.

Many have asked about a timeline for completion and it is something the Board can’t provide at this time. We can tell you, given a resident vote will be necessary before signing any agreement, we don’t anticipate anything being final for at least 4-6 months. The resident vote will take about 90 days to complete if and when we get a contract from one of the companies the Board feels is acceptable.

Given this information my only suggestion to all those returning to the area is to carefully consider signing a long term agreement with any company if it requires cancellation fees.

Here are the contract points the Board feels need adjusting before proceeding:

  1. SCSHCA will require that it can terminate the contract if Spectrum is in breach of the contract and addendums and fails to cure those defaults within thirty days of receiving written notice of any breach.
  2. SCSHCA will require that the contract not have an automatic renewal feature at the expiration of the term of the contract.
  3. Spectrum will need to furnish certificates of insurance and applicable endorsements as set forth in our standard contracts for services provided by vendors to SCSHCA.
  4. SCSHCA will not provide an indemnity to Spectrum and will require Spectrum to provide an indemnity to SCSHCA.
  5. Spectrum will need to furnish SCSHCA with all their authorized Agents that will have access to the Property.
  6. The authorized Agents will need to furnish certificates of insurance and applicable endorsements as required of Spectrum or Spectrum insurance will have to provide evidence of coverage applicable to all Agents.
  7. Should Spectrum wish to assign the contract, the consent of SCSHCA shall be required which consent cannot be unreasonably withheld, conditioned, or delayed.
  8. A default on the part of Spectrum will include filing of involuntary bankruptcy, committing waste on SCSHCA property.
  9. The Spectrum contract will need to include exhibits where the current form refers to website locations; current policies under those provisions at the execution of the contract must be an exhibit to the contract.
  10. Spectrum must provide notice of any material changes to their current policies to SCSHCA so that SCSHCA can provide notice to its unit owners.

If you have additional questions, please let me know. Thank you.

Thank you,
Kim Fuller
President

Flag Notification


Fly the United States Flag at Half-Staff Immediately Through Friday, October 18, 2019

Presidential Proclamation on the Death of Elijah E. Cummings

As a mark of respect for the memory and longstanding public service of Representative Elijah E. Cummings, of Maryland, I hereby order, by the authority vested in me by the Constitution and the laws of the United States of America, that the flag of the United States shall be flown at half-staff at the White House and upon all public buildings and grounds, at all military posts and naval stations, and on all naval vessels of the Federal Government in the District of Columbia and throughout the United States and its Territories and possessions through October 18, 2019. I also direct that the flag shall be flown at half-staff for the same period at all United States embassies, legations, consular offices, and other facilities abroad, including all military facilities and naval vessels and stations.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this seventeenth day of October, in the year of our Lord two thousand nineteen, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and forty-fourth.

DONALD J. TRUMP

Podcast Episode 166: Connie King, Lifestyle Director

This week Bob interviews Connie King, our Lifestyle Director. Listen in to learn of her plans to upgrade the golf cart parade and other plans she has for this season.

Do you have an idea for a podcast episode? Contact Bob Firring at podcast@scshca.com.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Subscribe: Apple Podcasts | RSS

Clubhouse Lost & Found

The lost & found at each clubhouse will be emptied on Thursday, October 31.

If you have recently lost an item, please check the lost & found before the October 31.

Indio Senior Center Offers Blood Pressure Classes and Unveils New Blood Pressure Kiosk

The Indio Senior Center, in partnership with the American Heart Association (AHA) and Desert Oasis Healthcare, began offering a series of blood pressure classes in September 2019 to educate residents on how to improve their heart health as part of the “Desert Communities: Life is Why” initiative. The AHA also unveiled a new blood pressure kiosk at the Indio Senior Center to allow members to check their blood pressure on a regular basis outside of the doctor’s office. The kiosk is free to use and is a great way to monitor blood pressure in a relaxing setting, and offers tips on how to lower high blood pressure risk. High blood pressure is known as the "silent killer" because there are no obvious warning signs and if left uncontrolled it can lead to heart attack, stroke, heart failure and other serious life threats.

The remaining classes will be held from 12:45 to 1:45 pm, in both English and Spanish, on the following dates:

  • Control Your Blood Pressure - October 21, 2019
  • Eating Smart with Fruits & Vegetables - November 18, 2019
  • Salt & Cardiovascular Risk - December 16, 2019

To join the Indio Senior Center or for more information, visit Indio.org/SeniorCenter or call 760-391-4170.

Indio Begins Citywide Road Improvement Projects

The City of Indio began laying new asphalt on major roads and residential streets throughout the City on Monday, September 30, 2019. The work will continue through Monday, December 23, 2019, and will occur between the hours of 7:00 am and 5:00 pm, Monday through Saturday. Residents and motorists should expect travel delays, are urged to use alternate routes, and should observe all construction signs and obey road crews.

The project is part of the City’s street maintenance program to restore the appearance of the street pavement while extending its service life and minimizing further deterioration. The work involves grinding the top surface of the street and overlaying it with new asphalt as well as slurry sealing, which is a mixture of asphalt and fine aggregate to repair cracks and surface defects on roads. Some streets will also include the repairs of curbs, gutters, sidewalks, ramps and driveways.

Click here for more information and to see the streets and neighborhoods where work will occur.

Podcast Episode 165: PJ Gagajena, Indio Economic Development

In the past, episodes with Bruce Latta of Indio Properties have been among our most popular. In this episode, Bob interviews PJ Gagagena with the Indio Economic Development Department. Tune in for a broad presentation of all the exciting things planned for the City of Indio in the next few years.

Do you have an idea for a podcast episode? Contact Bob Firring at podcast@scshca.com.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Subscribe: Apple Podcasts | RSS

Flag Notification

Fly the United States Flag at Half-Staff on Sunday, October 6, 2019 in Honor of National Fallen Firefighters Memorial Service

The United States Congress created the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation to lead a nationwide effort to remember America's fallen firefighters. Since 1992, the tax-exempt, nonprofit Foundation has developed and expanded programs to honor our fallen fire heroes and assist their families and coworkers.

The 38th National Fallen Firefighters Memorial Service will be held Sunday, October 6, 2019, to honor 92 firefighters who died in the line of duty in 2018 and 27 firefighters who died in the line of duty in previous years.

In accordance to Public Law 107-51, the American flag should be lowered to half-staff on Sunday, October 6, 2019 from sunrise to sunset in observance of National Fallen Firefighters Memorial Service.

September 2019 Board Meeting Video Now Available

To see more videos, visit our Videos page by clicking here.

Photos: Ice Cream Social

Friday, September 27, 2019
Montecito Clubhouse
Video by SCSH Pom Squad

Phase III Street Crack Sealing Project

The unfinished areas of the Phase III Asphalt Street Crack Sealing Project are scheduled to be performed on Friday, October 4.

We apologize in advance for any inconvenience this may cause you and thank you for your cooperation.

For more information, please contact the Facilities Maintenance Department 760-345-4349 ext. 2401.

Pickleball Court Maintenance (Updated)

Update 9/27: Pickleball courts #3 and #4 will be closed for maintenance October 2-3.

Maintenance was previously scheduled for September 25-27, but was postponed.

We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause.

For more information, please contact the Facilities Maintenance Department at 760-345-4349 ext. 2401.

 

 

Budget Session Video Now Available

The next budget session is scheduled for Wednesday, October 23 at 10 am in the Montecito Ballroom Front Half.

Video from the previous Budget Session in September can be view by clicking here.

Indio to Begin Citywide Road Improvement Projects

Work to Take Place from September 30 to December 23, 2019

INDIO, CA (September 26, 2019) – The City of Indio will lay new asphalt on major roads and residential streets throughout the City from Monday, September 30 to Monday, December 23, 2019. Work will occur between the hours of 7:00 am and 5:00 pm, Monday through Saturday. Residents and motorists should expect travel delays, are urged to use alternate routes, and should observe all construction signs and obey road crews. Access for emergency vehicles will be unaffected.

The project is part of the City’s street maintenance program to restore the appearance of the street pavement while extending its service life and minimizing further deterioration. The work involves grinding the top surface of the street and overlaying it with new asphalt as well as slurry sealing, which is a mixture of asphalt and fine aggregate to repair cracks and surface defects on roads. Some streets will also include the repairs of curbs, gutters, sidewalks, ramps and driveways. The project includes the following streets:

Major Roads

  • Avenue 49 (Jefferson Street to Monroe Street)
  • Fred Waring Drive (Jefferson Street to Monroe Street)
  • Hoover Avenue (Fred Waring Drive to Indio Boulevard)
  • Jackson Street (Dave Avenue to Avenue 48)
  • Jackson Street (10 Freeway to Avenue 42)
  • Jefferson Street (Varner Road to Sun City Boulevard)
  • Madison Street (Indio Boulevard to Fred Waring Drive)
  • Miles Avenue (Madison Street to Clinton Street)
  • Monroe Street (Highway 111 to Indio Boulevard)
  • Shields Road (Avenue 49 to Highway 111)
  • Youngs Lane (Avenue 48 to Highway 111)

Residential Neighborhoods

  • Bella Vida
  • Park Madison
  •  Sun Gold
  • Cheyenne Ranch
  • Rancho Verde
  •  Veranda
  •  Del Rey Palms
  • Riverbend
  • Villa Montego
  • Liberty Village/Desert Song
  • Silverwood
  • Villa Montego 2
  • Madison Ranch
  • Sunburst
  • Waring Palms
  • Montego Dunes

Residents and businesses in work areas will receive a “door hanger notice” with detailed instructions for the scheduled road slurry work. “NO PARKING” signs will be posted 72 hours in advance of scheduled work and there will be no street parking but parking will be available at a reasonable distance away.

The total cost for the project is $3.4 million and is funded by Measure X, which was a voter-approved 1% sales tax increase measure passed by Indio voters in 2016 for infrastructure improvements and public safety. The City was able to secure $420,000 in funding through the federal Community Development Block Grant Program to cover the cost of road improvements in the Sun Gold neighborhood.

For any questions, please contact Charlie Hoffman with PMI, Inc. at (760) 802-8422. For questions specifically related to the Sun Gold neighborhood work, please contact Reed Chilton, Construction Manager, Albert A. Webb Associates, at (951) 686-1070 or reed.chilton@webbassociates.com.

President’s Message: Bulk Cable Update

Kim Fuller
President

Hello Residents,

The Bulk Cable survey is complete, and there were over 1,700 responses. I want to remind everyone that the survey is not an official ballot vote but is only a way for the Board to gather information from the owners of homes in the community.

On Monday, August 26, 2019 the Board voted to pursue contract negotiations with both Spectrum and Frontier to try and reach agreeable terms for a 5-year contract for TV and/or internet service. If the Board can reach an agreeable contract, an official ballot vote will then be prepared and sent out by regular mail. The reason for having discussions with both companies is just in case we cannot obtain an acceptable contract with one company we can still negotiate an outcome with the other company. Until we know contract terms for both companies, the Board cannot decide on which company should be awarded the contract to provide the service.

We did meet with Spectrum on August 21, 2019 to discuss the terms of their template contract and to request changes that the Board felt were necessary. As of this date, Spectrum has requested more time to evaluate our requests. There are several items the Board felt were necessary to change if we were to proceed. Spectrum doesn’t anticipate getting back to us with an answer for another couple of weeks.

The template contract offered by Spectrum was not acceptable to the Board, and the Board voted unanimously that such a contract would not be in the best interest of the HOA. As it is currently drafted, the Board would not go forward with the template contract in its present form. The key business points are:

  1. SCSHCA will require that it can terminate the contract if Spectrum is in breach of the contract and addendums and fails to cure those defaults within thirty days of receiving written notice of any breach.
  2. SCSHCA will require that the contract not have an automatic renewal feature at the expiration of the term of the contract.
  3. Spectrum will need to furnish certificates of insurance and applicable endorsements as set forth in our standard contracts for services provided by vendors to SCSHCA.
  4. SCSHCA will not provide an indemnity to Spectrum and will require Spectrum to provide an indemnity to SCSHCA.
  5. Spectrum will need to furnish SCSHCA with all their authorized Agents that will have access to the Property.
  6. The authorized Agents will need to furnish certificates of insurance and applicable endorsements as required of Spectrum or Spectrum insurance will have to provide evidence of coverage applicable to all Agents.
  7. Should Spectrum wish to assign the contract, the consent of SCSHCA shall be required which consent cannot be unreasonably withheld, conditioned, or delayed.
  8. A default on the part of Spectrum will include filing of involuntary bankruptcy, committing waste on SCSHCA property.
  9. The Spectrum contract will need to include exhibits where the current form refers to website locations; current policies under those provisions at the execution of the contract must be an exhibit to the contract.
  10. Spectrum must provide notice of any material changes to their current policies to SCSHCA so that SCSHCA can provide notice to its unit owners.

It was clear in the survey that about 85% of the residents responding want to do something about a bulk cable contract for the next 5 years. Residents who completed the survey chose Spectrum over Frontier 77% to 23%, but the Board will not be able to decide on the final outcome of which company will be selected until contract negotiations are complete.

If you have additional questions, please let me know.

Thank you,
Kim Fuller
President

President’s Message: Results of Survey to Over-seed the Golf Course

Kim Fuller
President

Hello Residents,

The Board is in the budget process and there have been requests that we over-seed the rough areas (outside edges) of the golf course so that the entire golf course would be green all winter long. Currently we only over-seed the fairways of the golf course and not the edges. This means the outer edges of the golf course will be brown all winter while the center of the fairways will be green.

This has been done for the past couple of years because of cost. The cost to over-seed and water the rough areas of the golf course would be $7 per month per home. This would mean a $7 increase in your monthly dues to over-seed the rough areas of the golf course. Many residents believe it is worth the $7 per month per home to have the entire golf course green during the winter.

The Board sent out a survey on 8/30/19 to get the opinion of residents on how to proceed. There were 1,263 people that responded to the question “Do you want to over-seed the entire golf course knowing the cost will be an increase in dues of $7 per month?”

Here are the results of that survey:

Yes: 282 or 22.33%.

No: 981 or 77.67%

The Board will consider this information to determine how to budget for next year’s monthly dues.

Thank you,
Kim Fuller
President