Our new badge / entry / security system for the StoneyBrook / Cambridge clubhouse and pool has FINALLY been up steadily for several weeks now and can, at last, be considered a successful, stable installation.  There were many issues and bugs that had to be worked out in order to keep month-to-month costs at a low level for the neighborhoods, yet provide reliability.  The biggest obstacle has been our spaghetti-nest of abandoned and crossed phone lines in both the security office and SB/C clubhouse, which has finally been corrected.  Thanks to all for the work, effort and patience that was needed and required.  Soon we will move on to the other neighborhood facilities.  All SB/C residents will need the proper badges for the new system in order to gain entry.  SB/C residents … if you haven’t obtained your new badge as yet, you are urged to please stop by the Security office and do so.  All other neighborhoods will continue to function as before until further notice.

Preliminary preparation work has been initiated by the Village of Gurnee for the walkway-sidewalk replacement along Gages Lake road, east of Colby Road.  It is likely that the Village will be including this replacement walk in their budget and finished this summer.

Notification has been received from several asphalt companies of up to a 40% increase in prices over last year.  This will most certainly cause budgetary concerns for the HUA in having all of the roadway work completed as anticipated and scheduled in our Six-Year Plan. You will be kept informed as to the progress and developments in this area.

It seems that we have finally been able to determine, with help from Cambridge Builders, Northern Trust and Fairway Ridge, that the questionable shared ponds ownership has been proven to be that of the HUA since 1992.  With this documentation, work on those ponds can now be performed with our peace of mind that they are, by law, an obligation of the HUA to maintain and treat as part of the common area.  This leaves only one pond (#11 at the north-west end of HR by Gages Lake Road) the responsibility of Fairway Ridge, and they have recognized that fact.  An additional pond, #24, is located near Dunham Road and is the responsibility of Cobble Creek.

A Blood Bank has contacted HUA for permission to hold a blood drive on the property.  Once liability issues are in place, the drive will probably occur in short time.  Needless to say, this is a very necessary service, and HUA will do all it can to make this happen.

With the introduction of a new truck into the fleet, Brad and Landscape Department are busy trying to get spring clean-up started.  But as soon as we can see grass, more snow covers it up.  It’s a battle this year.  Meanwhile, dormant tree pruning by Brickman is continuing and seasonal landscape personnel are being brought in as available.  Each year, it’s getting harder and harder to find good people for our ever-demanding seasonal landscape needs.

Jason and the Maintenance crew are busy finishing up some inside work.  Their scheduled Lake County pool class will start on April 10th, which should be informative and helpful to them in their efforts to keep things right at our pools.  They have also recently replaced an electrical run which was causing lighting problems on Scott Court.  Additionally, they are assisting in the pool liner project, under way at the SB/C pool, and will be having the fans installed as part of the air control procedures under way at the SB/C clubhouse.  If only they can put their plows away for the season!

Health insurance plans are currently being reviewed by TLLCISI for recommendation to the Board.  Most often, health insurance carrier pricing can vary greatly form year to year, necessitating constant efforts to provide good programs to the staff at reasonable cost.  I believe your Board and Management have been fiduciarily responsible in that effort.

The main CRF is having new windows installed, as scheduled, starting on the 26th of March.  Also, there will be a wine tasting party on April 25, with entertainment by the Alternate Past.  It appears, even at this early date, that attendance will be terrific and you are urged to try to attend for a real treat and fun evening.  The past St. Pat’s Day party was very successful as well.

So hang in there, all you warm weather lovers.  You’ll be wearing your swim suits soon!  Cheers to all.

Bob Marcus, CMCA, AMS Community Manager