Background
Controversy arose when it was pointed out that the shrubs on the Enfield West Commons were impeding the sprinkler system and should be removed. In addition to improving sprinkler coverage, removal would make mowing and maintenance easier for our lawn company (which may be even more important than better sprinkler coverage).
As a reminder, the costs to maintain our six Common areas in the Gardens requires the majority of our HOA dues. When you consider the cost to water, lawn care, and sprinkler maintenance, the commons take up a majority of our funds. As a result, we try hard to make our water needs as efficient as possible. That is why blocking a couple of sprinkler heads became an issue. Our lawn company hasn’t raised our rates in 10 years and hopefully this may help stave off a price increase.
Vote
The HOA Board discussed this issues and took a vote. Then all of the home owners around the Enfield West Common were asked to for their vote on the issue. The homeowners vote tally on the subject of the bushes were 4 to 3 to cut down the bushes with 1 neutral vote. That vote in addition to the earlier HOA Board vote (5-2) resulted in the shrub removal.
Results
The shrubs have been removed. In addition, they will be putting down sod to cover the bare areas.
This has been a difficult issue to address since many of our home owners have strong feelings on both sides. There is no way to make everyone is happy about this, but at least the HOA Board handled fairly by expanding the vote to include all the residents around the Commons. Hopefully everyone will be happy with the results in the end.