L.A. LOOKS Wildlife Corner Photo & Article By Barbara Ann Comer The Northern Cardinal, a familiar and favorite bird of many, adorns numerous Christmas cards this time of year. Mrs. Cardinal may not be a Christmas-card-cover bird like her husband, but she is a subtle beauty in her own right with lovely hues of olive and tan tinged with red. She is one of the few female North American songbirds that actually sings! Many Lake Ashton residents do not realize what a common yearround bird this is in Florida. Residents who landscape with native plants, providing natural cover in their backyards, could be treated with a nesting pair. However, be prepared for them to attack their reflections in your house windows or your car's mirrors. It can be a battle to get them to stop their daily attacks once they have spotted a supposed interloper! Northern Cardinals are easily seen at Bok Tower Gardens at the bird feeder near the Window by the Pond. WHAT IS AN HOA ARC? By Bill Testa, LA II HOA President An HOA architectural review committee (ARC) is a committee that oversees architecture compliance in a Homeowners Association. Homeowners Associations typically have strict architectural rules that all residents must follow. The ARC ensures that homeowners adhere to these rules, and inspect and review architectural changes to ensure that the community retains its aesthetic appeal. In general, the responsibilities of the ARC include: • Managing the application and approval process for architectural modifications, improvements, and changes; 18 • Routinely inspecting homes in the community for any breaches or violations of the HOA’s architectural guidelines; • Reviewing the current architectural guidelines and proposing valuable changes to the HOA board; • Consistently enforcing the community’s architectural standards; • Reviewing architectural proposals and recommending decisions to the HOA board; • Conducting progress inspections for ongoing architectural modifications or improvements to ensure they follow the community’s standards; • Educating the homeowners on the architectural guidelines and the process for approval. The scope of authority for planned developments may include the following: • Lot setback requirements • Structure improvement and design • Exterior materials, paint colors, and finishes • Roofing materials and colors • Fencing • Landscaping • Solar panels • Satellite dishes The Architectural Review Process establishes a standard procedure when it comes to architectural change applications. This will help streamline the process and minimize any delays. If a homeowner violates the architectural rules, they can face a few possible penalties. State laws and governing documents permitting, penalties can include everything from fines to a temporary suspension of privileges. The HOA will order the homeowner to correct the violation or reverse an unapproved modification at the owner’s expense. In some cases, the HOA may also take legal action. Any resident member in good standing can join the ARC. The HOA collects fees from homeowners to maintain the community, covering upkeep and enforcing Covenants, Conditions, and Restrictions (CC&Rs). Lake Ashton is a CDD Community, and the CDD Board is responsible to maintain the infrastructure, facilities and amenities. The HOA is responsible for the standards and appearance of the homes.
19 Publizr Home