HSBPOA eyeing Declaration changes, playground fixes, lightouse, more

By Emily Hilley-Sierzchula

The Horseshoe Bay Property Owners’ Association board of directors on Wednesday, Dec. 10, discussed changes in store for the organization’s long-standing Declaration of Reservations, which can only be changed every 10 years.

The deadline for amendments to the document is Dec. 31, otherwise it automatically renews Jan. 1, 2015, said Nancy Ritter, HSBPOA general manager.

Ritter drafted an explanation that will be added to the Declaration document that explains the duplication of duties between the city and the HSBPOA.

Prior to the city’s incorporation in 2005, the HSBPOA was responsible for lot mowing, median maintenance, animal control, litter and street drainage, among others. Although the city now has these responsibilities, they remain in the Declaration, which is given to new residents. “We still get calls” from residents seeking to resolve the confusion, Ritter said.

In other action at the meeting, board member Elaine Waddill expressed concern about outdated and possibly unsafe playground equipment at Fox Hollow Park. The metal dome and swing set are the main issues. Swing sets with metal chains are considered unsafe because children can pinch fingers, and the metal dome has protruding bolts, Ritter said.

The park was constructed in the 1970s and “that era of equipment is no longer allowed in public parks,” she said Thursday, Dec. 11. “It’s just been a little neglected over the years,” she said, adding that Fox Hollow Park is private and “rarely used.”

The plan is to eventually replace the equipment and “spruce it up” so it will attract more families. She did not think parents should be concerned about letting their children play there as long as youngsters are supervised. 

Board member Sam Morrison offered to go look at the playground with Ritter and decide whether equipment is hazardous or simply outdated, and the issue will be revisited at the January meeting. 

For more, see Tuesday's Highlander.