June - Oak Hills Oracle

THE
OAK HILLS ORACLE
Serving the Oak Hills Community Since 1973
Volume XLII, Issue 6
June 2015
Inside This Issue
Report of OHHA Board
Meeting - 2
Report of Annual Home
owners Meeting - 4
Home of the Month - 3
Beaverton Schools
Calendar - 7
Know Your CC&Rs - 8
Neighbors - 9
Growing Organically - 10
Viewpoint - 13
Neighborhood Watch 14
Classified ads - 16
FACILITIES RENOVATION; ELECTION TOP
ANNUAL MEETING AGENDA
Additional chairs were needed to accommodate the overflow crowd at the Oak Hills Annual
Homeowners’ Association meeting on May 12. In addition to the election to fill three vacancies
on the Board of Directors, many were drawn to the meeting to see the latest plans proposed for
the renovation of the recreation and common facilities.
Paul Kinley, of Opsis Architecture, was on hand with a PowerPoint presentation of the drawings
his firm had prepared. The renderings included both interior and exterior views. In the proposals, the existing gym building will remain in place but be remodeled to be used as a community
meeting/multipurpose area with new bathrooms and increased storage space. A new building
will replace the existing administration building. The fill under that building is failing and the
building cannot be economically salvaged. It will be razed and the area re-graded. The new building will house a gym, offices and bathrooms. There are two proposed sizes: one would include
a gym area the size of a middle school half basketball court; the other is slightly larger with a
high school half basketball court. Higher ceiling heights in the new building will also make it
usable for volleyball and a wide variety of recreation and other activities. A new pool house is
proposed for the northwest end of the swimming pool. Three different “levels” are proposed:
the basic design includes bathrooms, changing areas and showers, and an aquatics office. An
enhanced version includes adding a rooftop terrace to the roof of the pool house. The most
ambitious version includes a full second story added to the pool house that could house a fitness
center, game room or party room. An elevator would be required to provide second floor access
to all homeowners. Three proposals, low to high end are also proposed, but the pool designs
presented are tentative. Pool designers/consultants will not be hired until surveys are tabulated
and preferred pool options are narrowed.
Three people were elected to serve on the Oak Hills Board of Directors. The three are: Jim Meyer,
Tony Davis and Todd Cooper. In an organizational meeting immediately following the Annual
Meeting Jim Meyer was selected to serve as Board President, Tony Davis will head Architectural
Review and Todd Cooper will be in charge of Maintenance. In other changes, Sara Bourne will
head the Rec Center Building Committee and Linda Marshall will add the duties of the Secretary
to her duties as director for Internal Affairs/Compliance Committee. Board members Erickson,
Gauntt, Boyd and Brewer will continue with the same assignments.
page 2
REPORT: OHHA MONTHLY BOARD MEETING,
May 6, 2015, 7 pm
By Nina P. Sparr, contributor
Present: Sara Bourne, David Boyd, Sheila Brewer, Bob Erickson,
Jim Erzen, Sarah Gauntt, Linda Marshall. Absent: Brad Buccholz. Invited guests: Paul Kinley and Chad Morgan of Opsis
Architecture.
A homeowner spoke in support of a neighbor's proposed home
remodeling and asked for clarification of the criteria used for
ARB's denial. Bob Erickson explained that the plans for the Forestel Loop property had not complied with the CC&R guidelines, specifically the section that prohibits a second story added
to a home with a daylight basement, and therefore the ARB and
the Board were both unable to approve the plans. Erickson noted ARB will prepare a document in the next year to give homeowners guidelines for a better understanding of ARB standards.
Erickson also noted ARB had suggested the Forestel Loop homeowners meet with Carolina Queen, architect and member of
the ARB to try to reach some agreement on designs that would
comply, but the homeowners had not arranged such a meeting.
Bourne emphasized that while the board recommended the homeowners meet with Queen to discuss options, ARB members
cannot draft architectural plans for owners.
Sara Bourne noted this specific restriction was a rule that had
been adopted recently, in response to a previous controversial
architectural change. The ARB and the board must follow the
CC&R’s as written. Changes to the CC&R’s require a vote by
the homeowners. Bourne suggested homeowners unhappy with
the CC&R’s could create a petition to begin the process for
changing CC&R’s.
Sara Bourne introduced Paul Kinley and Chad Morgan of Opsis
Architecture who would present and answer questions on the
drawings and plans for the Rec Center renovation. The PowerPoint presentation will also be given at the Annual Homeowners
Meeting on May 12th. The presentation included architectural
renderings, general information and general price structuring
for a variety of options for renovations. [Details of the presentation are the same as the presentation given at the Annual Meeting and provided in the survey distributed to all homeowners in
mid-May. It will not be summarized here.]
In response to a question from a homeowner, Kinley confirmed
the current gymnasium is approximately 2,219 sq. ft. He pointed out, however, that the existing space is not user-friendly for
recreational activities such as basketball or volleyball, due to
room dimensions and ceiling height.
There were questions from homeowners and discussion ensued
concerning total costs and financing options. The costs of the
three “scenarios” includes general project expenses such as architectural and design fees, demolition, consulting fees, and permits.
Paul Kinley noted that design elements for the new structures
were inspired by the design of the original buildings. This was
done deliberately to achieve a design that was appropriate to the
architecture of the homes in the neighborhood and in appreciation of the recent Historic Neighborhood designation for the
neighborhood.
The community will receive a survey containing all the details of
the designs being considered and the costs for individual elements
as well as three project “scenarios” that roughly represent proposals
that range from moderate to more luxurious. Surveys will be hand
delivered to each household within a few days after the Annual
Meeting on May 12. The survey will be open through May 28,
2015. Paper surveys must be mailed to CMI. Owners are urged
to fill out surveys online if possible to save the cost of mailing as
well as the cost for CMI to enter the survey results. The online
survey can be accessed at www.oak-hills.net
Board members thanked the Opsis Architects Paul Kinley
and Chad Morgan for their presentation. Kinley and Morgan
thanked the board members for their efforts and keeping them
updated and informed.
After the presentation the floor was opened for questions from
homeowners. A homeowner asked for clarification of payment
options. David Boyd explained that homeowners who chose
to pay the full assessment at once would realize savings, as they
wouldn’t pay financing charges or interest.
A homeowner asked about maintenance costs associated with
the various proposals and whether they were included in the
estimated costs. Bourne replied that the costs of the proposals do not include operating costs. Boyd said he was currently
working on those numbers and will provide them as soon as
they are available. Linda Marshall added that replacing some of
the outdated mechanical systems with energy-efficient systems
could result in savings and offset additional costs from heating
and maintaining a larger pool or pools. Sheila Brewer expressed
the view that upgrades to the facilities would result in additional
income from higher rental fees.
Sara Bourne began a discussion of the survey. Bourne stated the
goal of the survey was to determine “what is most important to
the community”. She hoped homeowners would choose specifically what they wanted to see in each “zone” rather than only a
single “scenario”. A draft of the survey was distributed to board
members. Brewer requested the survey include an option to
choose “none of the above” and be able to indicate if proposals
are either “too much” or “too little”. It was agreed this option
would be added to the survey.
Bourne requested input from the board on how to distribute
the survey. She suggested having surveys available at the upcoming Annual Meeting and said they also planned to utilize the
Westview Marching Band students to deliver the surveys door-
page 3
to-door. The delivery of the surveys to all homes in the neighborhood met with some resistance from audience members who
raised concerns that renters might fill out surveys and improperly influence results. Bourne replied that names and addresses
would be required and CMI will be checking to insure only
homeowners’ votes were recorded and only one vote per household is submitted. It was reinforced that the preferred method
of submitting the survey was online, as this was the most secure
form of submission, but that mailing surveys was also an option.
David Boyd suggested the survey be available for at least three
weeks. He felt that leaving the survey open for a longer period
of time would help increase community discussion. He felt it
would be more prudent to extend the survey end date until June
7th, as this would also allow for an additional board meeting to
take place along with an additional reminder in the next board
newsletter.
Bourne reinforced the safety of the online form, pointing out
that when errors occurred in survey data collection it was due to
human error more often than not (i.e. data being entered incorrectly, submissions getting lost in the mail, surveys received after
the due date had passed, etc.).
Bourne and Boyd stated there would be at least two “workshop”
events while the survey is open so homeowners would have
more opportunities to ask questions. They would also be able to
help people navigate the online survey form.
There was board discussion of the pros and cons of extending
the survey deadline into June as well as whether to change the
publication dates of the next board newsletter. It was decided to
set May 28 as the deadline for return of the surveys. Several homeowners in attendance volunteered to help with stuffing and
delivering the surveys. Brewer volunteered to print labels for the
envelopes to alert homeowners to the surveys. Boyd asked that
flyers with the dates and times of the informational workshops
be included in the envelope with the surveys.
Bob Erickson, Treasurer, presented the financial report. He
stated the financial health of the association is good. Erickson
reported that through the first six months of the fiscal year no
major red flags have come up. There has been higher revenue
than expected in some areas, which is positive. Income from the
RV lot is at 100% of what was budgeted for the entire year. Rec
income is at 128% of what was budgeted for the first 6 months,
and at 80% of what was budgeted for the fiscal year. However,
some costs have increased more than anticipated as well. Landscape/maintenance costs are currently at 90% of the yearly budget allotment, primarily due to unexpected costs of tree removal
after several fall windstorms. The budget also now reflects additional funding, approved at the last meeting, for lifeguarding
costs for the extended pool hours this summer.
The number of unpaid dues and fines continues to improve.
Currently there are only two homeowners with unpaid fines
OAK HILLS' HOME OF THE MONTH
FOR JUNE!
2745 NW Forest Avenue. Congratulations to
Terence Smith!
The Oak Hills Oracle is pleased to recognize one home
owner each month exhibiting pride of ownership in Oak Hills!
Winners are recognized in the Oracle, are given a copy of
this recognition and also receive a gift certificate to Home
Depot, courtesy of Ron Crutcher, John L. Scott Real Estate.
If you would like to nominate a home for Home of the Month,
please contact Ron Crutcher at 503-645-7433, x276.
for a total of $5,900. Erickson said he believes they are close to
getting these last outstanding fines taken care of. There are currently sixteen homeowners with unpaid annual assessments, out
of which only three have multiple years of unpaid assessments.
Alex Barrett, resident, addressed the board with a request to
approve his proposal to build a community tool locker for the
community garden. He shared drawings of what the shed would
look like. The project is part of his Eagle Scout Project. He plans
to build the shed at his home and move the completed shed to
the community garden with the help of his scout troop. The
shed will be approximately 6’ x 6’ x 2’ and will stand approximately 2’ taller than the compost bins.
Board Meeting, continued on page 12
Oak Hills Homeowner Since 1988
page 4
REPORT: ANNUAL HOMEOWNERS' MEETING,
May 12, 2015, 7 pm
OHHA Interim President, Sara Bourne, called the meeting to
order. Extra chairs were needed to accommodate the overflow
crowd. Tom LaVoie, CMI representative, read the proof of meeting. Notice of the meeting was mailed or emailed to all owners.
Bourne asked board members to present reports on what they
had accomplished in the past year.
Jim Erzen, Director of Maintenance for two terms. In the past
year, he has improved the baseball fields, planted flowers at the
front entrance and at the foot of the community bulletin board.
He has overseen the work of Mark Watson and his Maintenance
Crew. He improved the irrigation systems on the sports fields and
replaced the Wooded Way split rail fence. He expressed satisfaction in being able to serve the neighborhood for the past six years.
Bob Erickson, Treasurer, reported that the last fiscal year, October
1 through September30 ended in a surplus. Most of our income
is derived from dues, with most of the remainder coming from
recreation programs and 4th of July donations. Erickson noted
maintenance employees will be getting a salary increase this year.
Other increases in expenses will include utilities for this year. The
Reserve fund is at $280,000, an increase from the amount in the
fund this time last year. Monthly financial reports are posted to
the OHHA website
Linda Marshall, Internal Affairs, heads the Compliance Committee. She explained the purpose of the committee is to enforce
the CC&R’s. Over the past year the committee has contacted
property owners regarding various violations. Their two biggest
challenges, two abandoned properties, have both been brought
into compliance and are now being kept tended. A homeowner
asked if Marshall could provide a spread sheet noting the number
of complaints, whether the complaint was resolved and the time
it took to resolve. Marshall replied that she believed these issues
are best kept confidential and was not willing to provide this
information publicly.
Sara Bourne, Interim Board President, ARB committee and Rec
Center Building Committee, named the members of the Rec
Committee and noted more information on their work will be
coming later in the meeting. As head of the ARB committee,
Bourne reported she and her committee receive applications for
exterior paint, architectural changes, decks, roofs, and windows.
The majority of projects have received approval. Over the next
year, the ARB will work on developing guidelines for homeowners
to help them in understanding the rules.
David Boyd, RV Lot, reported there are currently 140 spaces
rented to homeowners. There were some minor changes to RV
contracts this past year and he worked to resolve problems with
tents in the lot. A fallen tree this year required replacement of a
large segment of the RV lot fence. The $6000 bill to replace the
fence is covered under the Reserve Fund. In the coming year, he
plans to investigate expanding the size of the RV lot to accommodate more vehicles and larger vehicles. There are now thirty-six
large RVs on the waiting list for spots. In response to a homeowner
question, Boyd stated that potential increased income from
adding more large spaces would offset the cost of the expansion.
Sheila Brewer, Recreation, said she has improved reporting and
tracking of income and expenses in the Recreation program. Registration for classes and summer programs will be done with new
computer software and in the future could be done online from
home. She reported the Recreation programs took in $18,000
in sales on sign ups on May 9. Her goal for the coming year is to
finalize a system for mediating employee grievances. Brewer also
reported Oak Hills has received increased fees the past year from
field rentals for teams using fields and greenspace.
Sara Bourne thanked the three board members who are finishing
their terms: Brad Buchholz, Jim Erzen, and Dan Smith. Sheila
Brewer provided a humorous recap of the board careers of the
three and presented each with an Oak Hills sweatshirt customprinted with an appropriate motto for each.
Sarah Bourne introduced the announced candidates for the three
board vacancies: Doug Castagno, Jim Meyer, and Todd Cooper.
Bourne asked if there were any other nominations from the floor.
Tony Davis was nominated from the floor. All candidates were
invited to make a short statement to the meeting before votes
were cast. The ballots were collected by and will be counted by
representatives of CMI, with two volunteer homeowners overseeing the ballot counting process.
While the ballots were being counted, Sara Bourne opened a
discussion of the state of our common facilities. She noted it was
the consensus of the entire board that something needed to be
done to correct the problems. They have determined that making minimal, essential repairs for safety and bringing facilities
into building code compliance would cost $2.6 million, with
no substantial improvements. The board is recommending what
Bourne referred to as a “moderate” renovation proposal. Owners
will be asked to respond to a survey of various options along with
the costs for each.
Paul Kinley of Opsis Architecture was introduced. In a presentation to the meeting, he said that his firm hopes their work will
help breathe new life into our community. As architects, they
recognize what a “gem” our neighborhood, our greenspace and
our shared facilities are; something that can never be duplicated.
The design of the new gym/multipurpose building emphasizes
exterior wood siding similar to the current buildings. The new
design features more glass, increasing natural light and inviting
participation. He briefly described the various pool design op-
page 5
tions and pointed out that the pool designs presented are the
simplest shapes but that later designs could result in different
pool shapes and configurations. The Pool House includes locker
rooms, bathrooms, and aquatics office space. The footprint of the
Pool house is the same for all three options, only the amenities
change among the three.
After selecting from among various individual options, homeowners will be presented with three “scenarios” that group the options
into low, medium and high cost packages along with the lump
sum, yearly or monthly costs that would be assessed for each.
Bourne announced there would be two workshops held during the
time the surveys will be available. The first will be Wednesday, May
20, the second on Wednesday, May 27. Homeowners are urged to
attend one or both of the workshops to get more details on the
proposals, have questions answered on building costs, financing,
how to fill out the survey, etc. The survey is available online now
and will be available through 5 pm on May 28. Names and addresses are required so CMI can verify that only homeowners fill
out the survey, but all responses will be kept confidential.
Mack Thames, homeowner with expertise in the construction
industry, discussed how he arrived at the construction costs and
detailed some of the general costs such as demolition, site grading,
general contractors fees, site security, consulting and legal fees, architectural and landscaping, concrete, and permits. These costs are
all incorporated into all three ‘scenario’ cost totals. He estimated
the entire project could be done in six months once approved.
The board and building committee will analyze the survey responses and comments and determine the final proposal that will
be put to owners for a vote. A special meeting will be called and
homeowners will be asked to vote yes or no. It currently appears
that 66% of all votes cast are needed to approve the project. The
building committee is consulting with association attorney’s to
ensure legal and accurate wording of the ballot.
Bourne noted that going forward with the renovation will also require some changes to the playground and surrounding picnic area
but that those amenities will remain largely in the same locations.
There were numerous questions and comments from homeowners
during and after the presentation on the Rec Center Renovations.
Bourne announced the results of the election. Elected were: Jim
Meyer, Todd Cooper and Tony Davis.
Meeting adjourned 9:55 pm
Annual Meeting, continued on page 12
page 6
page 7
ART NIGHT
The Oak Hills community is invited to share in some special
presentations of public art during Art Night at Oak Hills
Elementary. This fun filled evening celebrating the arts will be
held on Thursday, June 4 from 6 - 8 pm. Construction is already
under way on our “Infinity Room” and the “Obliteration Room”,
inspired by Japanese artist Yayoi Kusama. Art Night will also feature musical performances by our Choir,
Muse Band, Musicville cast, as well as showcasing student
art projects from our Art Literacy and Ceramics programs
throughout the school year. The Oak Hills PTO is proud to recognize Art Night
Coordinator Rebecca Moon-Leibowitz for being awarded a
grant from the Cultural Coalition of Washington County to
help make this event happen.
BEAVERTON SCHOOLS CALENDAR
June 2015
3 Meadow Park Band at Junior Rose
Parade
3 Last Day for Seniors, WHS
4 Art Night, Oak Hills Elementary, 6 pm
8 Graduation, WHS, at Chiles Center,
7:30 pm
9 Fifth Grade Bowling Party, OH,
10 am – noon
10-12 Final Exams, WHS
10 Field Day, Oak Hills
10 “Our Town” production, MP, 6 pm
11 Fifth Grade Celebration, OH
11 Eighth Grade Party, MP, 10 am – 2 pm
11 “Our Town” production, MP, 6 pm
12 8th Grade Recognition Assembly, MP
12 LAST DAY OF SCHOOL FOR STUDENTS!
TRANSPORTATION CHANGES AT OAK
HILLS SCHOOL
WASHINGTON COUNTY MUSEUM
SPECIAL EVENT
Parents are invited to a Transportation Options Planning meeting
on Tuesday, June 9 at 6 pm in the school’s cafeteria. The BSD has
cut school bus service for many students at Oak Hills starting next
school year. Learn about options for getting to and from school
safely next fall.
Celebrate the region’s thriving culinary scene and wine culture on
Thursday, June 18 from 5:30 - 9 pm at the Washington County
Museum's Archives, PCC-Rock Creek, 17677 NW Springville
Road.
Principal Hagseth, Lynn Mutrie (Safe Routes to Schools), Jen Anderson (Oak Hills Green Team) and others will give an overview
of options and be available to answer questions.
Some options being considered for next year include a walking
train, bike train, or carpooling. Other suggestions welcomed.
Parents are urged to bring your questions and suggestions to the
planning meeting or send them to [email protected]
Enjoy food and dessert from local caterers and chefs, along with
samples of wine, microbrews, and spirits at the annual event.
Participating food and beverage purveyors include Claey’s Catering, Bull Run Cider, Reser’s Fine Foods, Golden Valley Brewing,
Beaverton Bakery, Big Bottom Distillery, Elk Cove Vineyards,
Ambacht Brewing, Indio Spirits, Fresh Thyme Soup Company,
Tualatin Valley Distilling, Unger Farms, and more!
Tickets are $50/person and benefit the museum's program. Order
tickets on the museum website or call Pam at 503-645-5353 ext
118
READY FOR SUMMER!
These Oak Hills kids show they are ready for summer. Thanks to
Heather Lambert for submitting this photo - taken at one of the first
block parties of the season.
page 8
OAK HILLS SUMMER RECREATION PROGRAMS IN HIGH GEAR
Once school is out June 12, the Oak Hills Summer Recreation programs kick it up into a full time schedule. The pool will be open
daily beginning June 13. Swim lessons, tennis camps and swim team practices all begin the week of June 22.
There are three adult tennis mixers scheduled for summer 2015. The events are designed to bring adult players together for friendly
competition, celebrated with adult beverages. The first adult tennis mixer, Tennis & Brew, is set for Thursday, June 25 from 6 – 8 pm.
The $20 fee includes the beer. Adults who want to improve their game are invited to turn out for adult drop-in classes Monday and
Wednesday evenings for just $10 each. Dates and times are flexible; contact the Rec office if you are interested. Tennis courts are kept
locked; purchase your key at the Rec Office.
Oak Hills Pool hours, June 13 – 21
1 – 1:30 pm
5:30 - 6:30 pm
6:30 – 7 pm
7 – 8 pm
Adult lap swim
Open swim
Adult lap swim
Open swim
Oak Hills Pool hours, June 22 through July
Monday – Thursday (Friday no lessons, open and lap swim remain the same)
Mornings
1 – 1:30 pm
1:30 – 5:30 pm
5:30 – 7 pm
6:30 – 7 pm
7 – 9 pm
Group lessons and swim team
Adult lap swim
Open swim
Swim lessons
Adult lap swim
Open swim
For information on hours or programs or to sign up for events or classes, contact the Rec Center Office from 1:30 – 7 pm daily; leave
a message at 503-645-4303 (office phone), or [email protected]; for immediate help call 503-593-7386 (cell phone).
BETTER KNOW YOUR CC&R’S
The full legal title is “Amended and Restated Declarations of Restrictions of Oak Hills Home Owners Association (Covenants, Conditions & Restrictions)” but they are better known as CC&R’s. Last updated with changes approved by a vote of the homeowners in
2013, they are the rules that apply to all owners of homes in Oak Hills. A copy of the CC&R’s was one of the many documents you
signed when you closed on your home; owners are contractually obligated to comply with the rules. Compliance is not voluntary, it
is required. In some cases, fines can be assessed for non-compliance.
Highlighted this month is Article IX (b). Article IX describes the authority for annual assessments. Subsection (b) gives rules for
voting on assessment increases. The exact text from the official document is printed below. The complete CC&R’s are available on
the OHHA website, oak-hills.net, under Documents > Declaration of Restrictions 2013.
Article IX, (b) Said annual charge or assessment, when imposed, shall be upon and against each Lot subject thereto and the
whole thereof; the amount thereof shall be determined annually by the board of Directors but shall not exceed $475.00 per year
per building site unless two-thirds of the votes cast at an annual meeting or a special meeting called for that purpose vote to
increase the same.
Most of the CC&R's address maintenance issues of properties. If you have a question or a complaint about non-compliance of an
Oak Hills property, contact the Complaince Committee. Enforcement of compliance issues is the responsibility of OHHA board
member Linda Marshall. She is assisted by Compliance Committee members, Nancy Robbins, Manuella Nicholas, and Barbara McCann. Marshall's contact information is on page 15 of this publication.
page 9
NEIGHBORS
by Colleen Shannon
Colleen is taking a break this month to tend to family matters. Her popular Neighbors column will return next month.
If you are a new or not-so-new neighbor in Oak Hills, Colleen Shannon would love to meet you! Interviews are friendly and you are
invited to approve the article before it appears in print. We want you to be happy with the final result. Contact Colleen at collshan@
comcast.net or 503-680-6002.
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GROWING
ORGANICALLY
by Margie Lachman
Heirloom? Hybrid? Native? What do these terms mean and
which is best for attracting pollinators? These important insects
and birds are attracted to flowers with good nectar supplies. They
gather pollen on their bodies and as they wander from flower to
flower they distribute it, fertilizing the plants they visit. Native
plants occur without any help from us, need little or no fertilizer, and though not always as showy or colorful as many plants
developed by humans, are valuable to wildlife. When planted
where they receive appropriate light, water and proper drainage,
natives demand little attention. Many of them are rich in nectar.
Heirloom plants are open pollinated by insects, birds, wind and
other natural means. Their seed will produce plants like the parent year after year and can be passed down in families and shared
with friends. This conserves genetic diversity that is so important
in preventing the loss of unique varieties. Many heirlooms have
already been lost to us.
Hybrids are the result of two different varieties of a plant cross
pollinated by plant breeders to create new varieties with bigger,
more colorful flowers, interesting foliage, and bigger, disease
resistant fruits and vegetables. Some hybrids, like tomatoes, have
less robust flavor, or like some roses, will have less fragrance. Seed
from hybrids may be sterile or produce plants like one of the
parents, not like the hybrid.
Many flowers, even hybrids, will feed pollinators. The greater the
variety of flowers planted among vegetables, the more productive
they are. Flowers invite pollinators into the garden. Sweet alyssum,
daisies, cosmos, asters, herbs like oregano, dill, fennel, borage,
parsley and lavender, sunflowers, penstemon, salvia, marigolds,
coneflower and yarrow are good to start. You will have not only
more vegetables but also a more beautiful garden.
Questions? Email me at [email protected] or call 503645-2994.
v
page 11
EAT SMART, WASTE LESS
The Washington County Solid Waste & Recycling Program
is teaming up with cities across the region to reduce the
amount of household food waste through the Eat Smart,
Waste Less Challenge. The average U.S. household throws
away nearly 25 percent of the food they purchase each year.
Some of that waste is caused by not knowing how to properly
store fruits and vegetables. By taking the Eat Smart, Waste
Less Challenge, you will have the opportunity to learn how
to better store your fruits and vegetables to avoid costly
spoilage. You will be provided the tools necessary to eat
more of the food you buy and waste less. The Challenge booth will be run by staff and Master
Recyclers at select local farmers’ markets. You can test
your knowledge by playing a sorting game—placing food
items “in the fridge,” “on the counter” or “in a cool dark
place.” Plus, if you sign up to take the Eat Smart, Waste Less
Challenge, you will be entered in a drawing for a chance to
win fun prizes. SUSTAINABLE FOOD SERIES
AT LEEDY GRANGE HALL
The Leedy Grange monthly 'sustainable food' film series continues
on Saturday, June 20. The next film, "Food Fight" documents how
the counter culter of the 1970's fed the country's appetite for
fresh ingredients after two decades ruled by canned and frozen
convenience foods. The evening starts at 6:30 with light snacks
and conversation, showtime at 7 pm.
The series is free and open to everyone.
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page 12
Annual Meeting, continued from page 5
Organizational Board Meeting
Immediately following Annual Meeting
May 12, 10 pm
Bourne announced the purpose of the meeting was to select officers and make other board assignments. New board members
introduced themselves and provided a brief description of skills
they could bring to board membership. Duties and areas of interest were discussed.
Officers and board assignments were decided as follows: President
and Maintenance, Jim Meyer; Vice President and Rec Center
Building Committee head, Sara Bourne; Secretary and Internal
Affairs, Linda Marshall; Treasurer, Bob Erickson; Recreation,
Sheila Brewer; RV Lot, David Boyd; Communications, Sarah
Gauntt; Architectural Review, Tony Davis; Maintenance, Todd
Cooper.
Meeting adjourned 10:30 pm
We offer:
♦Thorough, fast flue cleaning ♦Waterproofing
♦Restoration work ♦Tuckpointing (remortaring)
♦Complete tear down & rebuild
♦Chimneys brought up to code ♦Relining
♦Raincaps (with screens to keep birds out)
♦Dampers ♦And much more!
Board Meeting, continued from page 3
Linda Marshall, Compliance Committee, reported that there
wasn’t anything new from the compliance committee at this
time. However, she wanted to discuss the proposal she had made
during the last meeting of term limits for the compliance committee members. She explained that she reviewed the CC&R’s
and compared other standing committees and found no precedence for term limits. Therefore, she moved that the term limits
suggested for the Compliance Committee members be eliminated. Motion carried.
Sheila Brewer, Recreation Committee reported that she and
the rec staff is preparing for the upcoming season. Recreation
registration is set for the upcoming weekend and she asked for
more help with registration. Brewer opened a discussion about
switching computer software now being used for registration
and tracking the money coming into the recreation program.
Recreation is currently using the “Square” program, but she
would like to switch over to software called “Jackrabbit”. Brewer
shared some concerns about the changes required for a different
class management program. The CMI rep suggested setting up a
meeting with CMI’s comptroller to work out any problems with
the transition. Erickson suggested Brewer work out these issues
with her staff and CMI.
Linda Marshall moved to approve the minutes from the April
Board Meeting. Brewer interjected to state she believes the minutes have recently included too much detail. In particular, the
April minutes had included a personal comment she had made
during the meeting that she believed was inappropriate and taken out of context. Marshall noted the comment in question had
already been removed from the official minutes. Boyd expressed
the opinion that prior to his time on the board, he often felt
more detailed minutes were helpful in getting an understanding of what had actually been discussed at board meetings. The
April minutes were approved as submitted.
Meeting adjourned at 9:39pm.
The OHHA Board of Directors meet the first Wednesday of each
month at 7 pm. Meetings are open and all Oak Hills residents
are welcome to attend. The next monthly Board Meeting will be
June 3, 2015. Meetings are held at Oak Hills Community Church.
Licensed, bonded and insured
CCB# 152506
Call today for a FREE estimate
and a 10% discount!
503-646-9044(west) 503-231-2588 (east)
[email protected]
www.orechimney.com
page 13
VIEWPOINT
The Oracle invites submissions from subscrib-
ers. Viewpoint is intended as a forum for Oak
Hills residents to express views on a variety of
topics. The Oracle is not responsible for views expressed
here and reserves the right to reject letters deemed unsuitable for publication.
The OHHA is generally made up of hardworking volunteers, and
I realize they are doing their best in a thankless job. In the vast
majority of cases, I applaud their efforts. Case in point is the vast
undertaking of the Rec Center Remodel. I’m thrilled with the work
of the board to research and provide options for the neighborhood
to rally around a common project to rebuild a core part of our
unique living area. However, all is not rosy. The members of the Architectural Review
Board formed just two years ago with expanded jurisdiction and
a fresh set of ‘updated’ CC&Rs has taken it upon themselves to
interpret these restrictions to an extreme and ridiculous level. Do
we really need this group deciding between the various shades of
beige we can paint our homes? NO. They should be protecting us
from the purple, orange, lime green and hot pink house paint, but
not dictating which store to buy from or which shade of neutral paint
to buy. On a much larger scale, their decisions are also negatively
impacting our neighborhood. Oak Hills now has a reputation
amongst realtors and homebuyers as having lower resale
values, unreasonable restrictions on home improvements and
remodeling, and a militant HOA compared to other neighborhoods
in our area. Part of this is due to our historic district designation,
but even more of it is due to remodeling conflicts between owners
and the OHHA over the last few years. The updated CC&Rs
were in part a reaction to a remodeling conflict this neighborhood
weathered a few years back. The new CC&R clauses governing
many remodels are still vague and open to interpretation. Over the
past 6 months, the ARB and the Board have repeatedly rejected
a modest remodeling plan for a family who bought a house on
Forestel Loop. This family, with two small boys, really wanted to
invest in this home and live in Oak Hills to raise their family here,
just like all of us. They have spent many thousands of dollars
reworking their plans four times trying to appease the ARB for a
modest addition to their home, only to be denied again and again,
based on an extreme interpretation of a new CC&R clause. This
family now feels completely unwelcome in our neighborhood, and
they will probably sell the house they just bought, and leave our
neighborhood before they even got the chance to live here. It’s our
loss, not theirs. Let’s not repeat this situation; it is the first time in
my thirteen years in Oak Hills that I’m ashamed to be associated
with the HOA. The ARB needs to be fair and open-minded, taking
into consideration the neighborhood harmony, the visual change
of the remodel and not simply the most extreme interpretation
of the CC&Rs. The ARB claims the CC&R clause is intended to
minimize the number of ‘mansionizing remodels’ which will occur,
but the clause in question actually encourages mega-remodels
because it’s much easier to get approval for raising the entire roof
instead of just a small section of it. I’m asking the Board and the
ARB to reconsider their decision on this particular remodel… a
modest addition which is completely harmonious to the existing
neighborhood is vastly preferable to adding an entire level and
raising the roofline drastically. Seems like common sense, to me
- and we’d get to keep some great new neighbors. Please let the
ARB and the Board know your opinion. This militant ARB attitude
is driving away good families from Oak Hills, and that’s not the
Oak Hills I want to be associated with.
Terri Danowski
We attended the annual meeting and heard the presentation
on the options for the rec center. All of the views seem to start
from the pool deck. How will these new buildings look in the
neighborhood? Let’s see a view from the 153rd and Oak Hills Drive
intersection. We heard that there would be a 6-foot high retaining
wall. Presumably, it will be between the existing pool and the Oak
Hills Drive sidewalk and we wonder how close it will be to the
sidewalk.
We’ve been told that the reason the admin and pool building
needs to be replaced is because the unstable ground beneath it
is causing settling and cracking. So, why do all of the new plan
designs show a large gym building on that same location?
Over the last few years we’ve heard how much repair work needs
done on the existing gym, how it just doesn’t suit our needs. But,
the new plans keep the existing gym as the cornerstone of the
complex with all of the new buildings designed to enhance and
complement it. If that building is so important, why do we need to
add a new gym?
And, if the existing gym is kept and remodeled, as we think is
the intent, where are the figures of the cost of that? There are
considerably more costs associated with this project than just the
cost of the new buildings.
Dave and Joanne DeHaan
The responses to the Community Center Renovation Survey will
be tabulated and ready sometime in June. The Building Committee and board members will use the results to decide what proposal to put to a vote of the homeowners. They will use the results
to decide what elements of the proposals have gathered the most
Viewpoints, continued on page 14
page 14
Oak Hills Neighborhood Watch
Viewpoints, continued from page 13
Incident Report for April 15th — May 15th
support as well as the price point that seems most acceptable. It's
possible, however, that a large number of "none of the above" responses could lead them to substantially rethink what the proposal
will look like.
Wednesday May 6th, early morning. Large yellow mesh bag full
of new martial arts gear stolen from car on Ridgetop Court. Includes blue mma gloves, black sparring gloves, chin guards, foot
guards, black helmet, sparring chest guard size 1 or 2, specialized
mouthpiece in case, 2 escrima sticks wrapped in electrical tape
with initials; bright green binder with black belt paperwork;
kamas - martial arts weapons, bright orange (google for pix).
Owners believe it was a teen or child as nothing else of true value
was stolen. Theft was reported to the police. email family for more
information, [email protected].
Thank you for your involvement in a safer neighborhood. Please
continue to report incidents. Call police first and then Neighborhood Watch to report illegal or suspicious behavior. [email protected] or 503-372-9600
BUSTER SAYS...
Thanks for everything,
Dad! But don't forget
a clean up bag when
we're out walking.
A special meeting will be required to present any proposal and
hold a vote. The date of a special meeting has not yet been determiend, but could be as early as July. At that special meeting
homeowners will be asked to vote yes or no on the proposal and,
most significantly, agree to the financial obligation connected to
that proposal.
Voting procedures for the renovation proposal have not yet been
established. It is hoped that the archaic proxy system will be
scrapped for this important vote. Serious doubts have been raised
about the integrity of voting and the use of proxies after a number
of residents arrived at the Annual meeting with handfuls of proxies, many apparently generated after a questionable social media
campaign.
A better idea would be to offer owners a window of time in which to
vote either by mail or online, like the method used for the surveys.
This method would insure that only homeowners can vote, that
each property votes only once and that owners who may be out of
town still have an opportunity to vote. More importantly, it should
eliminate the possibility that anyone might feel pressured by others to turn over their ballot.
Micki Sparr
What are your views? The Oracle prints every letter received. All
views are welcome; however, personal attacks are not allowed.
The Oracle does not edit or alter any submission except with the
express permission of the writer. Contact Oracle editor, Micki
Sparr if you have questions about the Oracle's editorial policy.
Get Prepared: Build Emergency
Kits for Your Home and Car
GOOD DOG CLUB. If you have a good dog who always carries a
clean-up bag when out and about in Oak Hills, then your dog is eligible to become the Oracle's next "Good Dog of the Month". Your
dog will be honored with a photo in the Oracle and will receive
a certificate suitable for framing announcing your dog's status
as a good dog citizen! JSend a photo of your Good Dog, along
with dog's name and your name and address to [email protected] or The Oracle, 15390 NW Wooded Way, Beaverton
OR 97006.
Tualatin Valley Fire and Rescue would like every household to
be prepared for an emergency. Having a well-stocked emergency kit in your home and in your vehicle will help you survive
and be more comfortable during any event — large or small.
Taking a few minutes to gather supplies that will last for three days
or more is easier than you might think. Make one kit to store in
your garage and another for your car. For detailed lists of items
to include in kits or for more emergency preparedness tips and
resources, visit www.tvfr.com.
page 15
EARN EXTRA MONEY! SIGN UP NOW FOR BABYSITTERS AND ODD JOBS LISTINGS
The listing of Babysitters and Odd Jobs is a public service provided free by the Oak Hills Oracle. Listings are not screened by the Oracle. Anyone
between the ages of 12 – 17 can be listed on one or both lists, but families must be paid subscribers to the Oracle. Contact the Oracle editor
including your name, address (for verification purposes only) phone number, and age. For the Babysitters’ List, include whether or not you have
passed the Red Cross Baby Sitting certification class. For the Odd Jobs list, include what types of jobs you want to be considered for. Those listed
are responsible for providing age and other changes to the listings.
BABY SITTERS LIST
Stephanie Gardner*
Isabelle Marcantuono*
ODD JOBS LISTING
12
14
503-313-8432
503-533-5282
Important Telephone Numbers
Maintenance
Pool/Rec Center
Activities Coordinator
Mark Watson
Answering Machine
Christina Mattusek
503-645-1776
503-645-4303
503-593-7386
[email protected]
All Emergencies
Fire, Medical, Police
County Sheriff
Non-emergency
Washington Co. Traffic Hotline .........
Animal Services/Lost Pets ..............
Oak Hills Elementary School .............
Meadow Park Middle School .............
Westview High School
.............
Oak Hills Oracle
Micki Sparr
9–1–1
503-629-0111
503-846-3998
503-846-7041
503-533-1860
503-672-3660
503-259-5218
503-690-7122
Oak Hills Homeowners’ Association
2085 NW 153rd Avenue
Beaverton, OR 97006
www.oak-hills.net
OHHA Board Members
Jim Meyer
President
14900 NW Northumbria
[email protected]
503-828-4582
Sara Bourne
V. President and
Renovation Comm.
---
[email protected]
503-789-2048
Robert Erickson
Treasurer
15715 NW Oak Hills Dr.
[email protected]
503-645-4024
Linda Marshall
Secretary, Compliance
15135 NW Perimeter Dr.
[email protected]
503-645-2366
Sarah Gauntt
Communications
14645 NW Forestel Loop
[email protected]
971-777-5805
Sheila Brewer
Recreation
15129 NW Oakmont Loop
[email protected]
503-533-0825
David Boyd
RV Lot
14330 NW Belle Place
[email protected]
503-307-4583
Todd Cooper
Maintenance
15595 NW Oak Hills Dr.
[email protected]
971-255-3362
Stephanie Gardner, 12 Pet sitting, dog walking
Gavin Klumpp, 16 All yard work
Luke Thompson, 14 Pet sitting, dog walking, mowing
503-313-8432
503-705-3349
503-954-9656
T he Oak Hills Or acle can be vie wed
in full color each month at www.OakHills
Oracle.com. The Archives contain issues back
through 2009; how to subscribe at the Subscriptions
tab; get detailed information on advertising options
at Advertising tab.
ORACLE DEADLINE:
15TH OF EACH MONTH
Publication Date: 1st of each month
Subscription: $10.00/year
Oracle Owner & Editor
Micki Sparr
15390 NW Wooded Way
Beaverton OR 97006
503.690.7122
[email protected]
Oracle Contributors
Neighbors: Colleen Shannon, [email protected], 503-680-6002
Growing Organically: Margie Lachman, [email protected],
503-645-2994
The Oak Hills Oracle is a privately-owned, independent monthly publication serving the
residents of the Oak Hills neighborhood. The Oak Hills Oracle is not an official publication of OHHA.
ORACLE PRIVACY POLICY
The Oak Hills Oracle does not share or sell the information collected from subscribers. All information is confidential and used
for subscription verification only. Old subscription records are
shredded prior to disposal. If you have any questions about your
information, please contact the Oracle editor.
WWW.OAKHILLSORACLE.COM
page 16
CLASSIFIED ADS
SERVICES
WOODSTOCK QUALITY PAINTING & RESTORATION. Highest quality materials. Interior & Exterior. Pressure-washing. Restore
& treat cedar roofs and decks. Senior discounts. Oak Hills references.
CCB#162356. Call Phil 503-645-7193.
12/15
RON DIMMITT CONSTRUCTION. All phases of remodeling: skylights, kitchens, bathrooms, additions, decks, home repairs, window replacement - replace windows with vinyl windows. Oak Hills References.
Licensed, #22191. Call 503- 649-8664/fax 503-649-9995
12/15
HASSKAMP ROOFING CO. Reroof, tear offs, shakes, composition.
Oak Hills references; over 200 roofs completed in Oak Hills. Call Mike
at 503-645-0215. CCB#83517
12/15
APPLIANCE GUYS. Appliance, heating and air conditioning repair.
Fast, professional service at affordable prices. Locally owned. Licensed
and bonded. CCB#130240. Call 503-531-8853.
6/15
OWEN WEST ELECTRIC. Our specialty: service and panel change;
kitchen and bath remodel; security and yard lighting. 28 years experience.
CCB#29492. 503-297-6375, or 503-880-9512.
6/15
ANCTIL PLUMBING INC. Established 1975 — 503-642-7323. All
phases of remodel, repairs, repipes, water service, water heater, hot water
1/16
radiant heat, boiler certified. CCB#24184.
EVERGREEN CUSTOM PAINTING. Specializing in exterior and
interior painting. I personally do the painting to ensure quality. Oak
Hills references. Visit evergreencustompainting.com or call 503-4753993 for your free estimate. Licensed, bonded, insured. CCB #192514
.
2/16
CONSTRUCTION, REPAIR AND HANDY MAN. We can take care
of all your construction, repair or handyman needs! Quality work at reasonable prices. No job is too small. David Nase Property Management.
Lic #158212. 503-888-8765 or [email protected].
4/16
COUGAR CARPENTRY. Oak Hills references. Over 20 years experience in home remodels and repairs. Projects large or small, inside or out.
6/15
Competitive prices. CCB#163536 Call Todd at 503-317-4328
SONNY'S YARD MAINTENANCE. Great work/reasonable prices; no
job too big/too small. Cleanups, maintenance, trees, pressure washing,
planting, bark, fences, patios, retaining wallls. Free estimates, ref. Oak
11/15
Hills, 15% discount. Call Lori 503-329-8032.
HOUSECLEANING. Would you like your house to sparkle and shine?
New phone number; call Carol at 503-432-1664. "One timers" are welcome.
6/15
CAREGIVER/CNA/BATH AIDE. Available for you or your loved one.
I provide personal care (medical or non-medical), hospice care, medication and meal management, post-op care, etc. Exc. references, including
in Oak Hills. Stacey P. Connerton, 503-686-4557
5/15
GUTTER CLEANING/DEBRIS & JUNK HAULING. Free estimates
on debris and junk hauling. Reliable service. Gutter cleaning - One story
house $85; two story $95; Wooded Way $200. Call Mark W. at 503-6587057, evenings and weekends.
3/15
REID PAINTING. Over 15 years experience in Beaverton and Portland
areas. Exterior painting/powerwashing with an eye for detail. Licensed,
bonded, insured. LLC#171829. For a free bid and Oak Hills references,
Call Rob Reid at 503-380-7926.
9/15
Dog Walking. Summer is vacation time! Make sure your
furry friends are taken care of. One-timers or fixed schedule. Discounts for 4+ days per week. E-mail gavsgonnaflip@
gmail.com or text 503-869-0190 for prices and details. 7/15
RESIDENTIAL WINDOW CLEANING. I’m an Oak Hills resident with
28 years of experience and many Oak Hills and Claremont references.
Excellent quality and reasonable rates. Estimates gladly. Steve Bailey (503)
690-4470 or (503)789-4729 8/15
WE TAKE CARE OF YOUR RENTAL PROPERTIES. Residential &
Commercial. Let us do renting and maintaining of rental properties. Dave
Nase Property Management. Lic #980500131. 503-888-8765
1/16
CAREGIVER. Caregiving/ Companion/Bath Aide/Hospice Care.
34 years experience providing highest level of personal care.
CPR/First Aid certified, liability and bonding insurance, and current State Provider #. For trustworthy and dependable care please
call Deana Brown at 971-806-5873. Located in Oak Hills. 8/15
BETTER THAN ANg----'S LIST! The majority of the Oracle's classified advertisers have been doing business and advertising in Oak Hills for
several years - some for more than 15 years! Nearly all have Oak Hills
references that you can check and there is no subscription fee. Thank you
for contacting the Oracle's advertisers.
MISCELLANEOUS
mah jongg. Looking for mah jongg players in Oak Hills. Call Julie
at 503-645-2689.
ORACLE ADS GET RESULTS. Promote your business or service in
Oak Hills. Very reasonable rates for classified ads - proven results. Ads
for the July issue are due by June 15. More details available on the website at www.OakHillsOracle.com, click Advertising tab at top of home
page or contact the Oracle's owner and editor, Micki Sparr at 503-6907122 or [email protected].
VACATION RENTALS
MANZANITA BEACH HOUSE. Ocean views from vaulted living room,
dining room and bedrooms. 2 complete living units; sleeps up to 18; rent 1
or both levels. Reunions, corporate retreats, workshops. Call Ron Crutcher,
503-799-4276 www.manzanitavacationretreat.com
12/15
MEXICAN RIVIERA! 2 Br//2 Bth Luxury Condo in Playa del Carmen,
just 35 minutes south of Cancun in the Mayan Riviera. Fully furnished, w/
full Kit/Laundry and equipped with all necessities. Overlooks the beautiful
pool and the Warm Caribbean Sea! www.beachcondoplayadelcarmen.
com. Contact Ron Crutcher at 503-799-4276.
1/16