The December 8 Trustee meeting was called to order at 7:00 p.m. at the home of Carel Reynolds. Those in attendance included: Jim Harris, Carel Reynolds, Jim Gruenewald, Chuck Toedtman, Nancy Shaffstall, and Roger Feltz who is taking over as Landscape Trustee for Nancy this year.

Minutes from the annual meeting were approved.

Lake Report – Jim Gruenewald
Jim G. said that he will soon turn the aerator off but will not be pulling it out because the lake usually does not freeze thick enough. The lights on Friar Fork Ct are broken but access to the Howard's residence to fix them has been difficult.

President’s Report – Jim Harris
Jim H. and Jim G will investigate a new swing set and include a neighborhood mother to make sure we buy what we actually need for the residents. 
Jim H will begin investigating the Des Peres fence repair, paint, and stain. 
Jim H asked that we plan to work on the budget at the January 12 meeting at Chuck's house.

Treasurer’s Report – Chuck Toedtman
Chuck T. reported that we are on schedule for annual dues collections. Chuck will prepare details for the budget meeting in January.

Landscape report - Nancy Shaffstall
Roger will send the Symmetry contract to Chuck for follow up.

Communication Report – Carel Reynolds
Carel will begin working on the directory after the holidays. Chuck and Jim H will get the updated lists to Carel. In addition, Carel will begin sending monthly newsletter via email, pending obtaining information for print. 
Susan Stephens coordinated the holiday decorations and the fall picnic. Carel will try to find out who all helped and get pictures. 

Discussion ensued about allowing the right away through our playground and Phantom Forest. Jim G. suggested we email the residents about how they feel about it. Carel brought up the fact that at a previous annual meeting, the homeowners decided unanimously that they did not want it. It was decided that we would wait until complaints surface to act on it.

Our next meeting was set for January 12, 7:15 pm at Chuck's home.

Meeting was adjourned at 8:30 p.m.

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The meeting was held at Nancy Shaffstall’s residence at 7:15 p. m.  Those present were Jim Gruenewald, Jim Harris, Nancy Shaffstall, and Chuck Toedtman.  Carel Reynolds was absent.

Treasurer’s Report
Chuck Toedtman, treasurer, reported that nearly all of the assessments have been collected for the fiscal year 2008-09.  One lien has been issued for nonpayment.  Collections for 2009-10 are progressing.  This year there were substantially higher than anticipated expenses associated with the dam outlet and lake.   Our operating budget is severely strained with limited funds remaining until the next fiscal year beginning Oct 1, 2009.

There was a lengthy discussion on the increased costs associated with maintaining our aging subdivision—especially in light of the increased costs for electricity, landscaping, and lake/dam expenses.  The Consumer Price Index is currently used for determining assessment increases.  Our actual costs increase considerably more per year.

Landscape
Nancy Shaffstall, landscape trustee, reported on bagworm infestation on an Alberta Spruce tree at the entrance.  Bags have been picked off and Symmetry was asked to spray. As requested, the City of Des Peres provided mulch above the Des Peres Road retaining wall.  Trustees approved asking Symmetry to spray weeds in the new rip rap at the dam outlet and also to do additional grass seeding on the slope above the outlet

Lake.
Chuck Toedtman mentioned the black fence over the concrete spillway into the lake.  It is in bad shape.  Jim Gruenewald agreed to investigate and get bids for painting or replacement.

Playground/Park
Jim Harris and Nancy Shaffstall have been doing research on swingset possibilities and a report was presented.  A replacement set is being considered for purchase and installation during our next fiscal year.

Additional Business
An addition at 720 Briarfork was approved.

The next meeting was set for 7:15 p. m., Tuesday, October 13, at Chuck Toedtman’s home.

Respectfully submitted,
Nancy Shaffstall

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Present:  Jim Gruenewald, Jim Harris, Nancy Shaffstall, Chuck Toedtman
Absent:  Carel Reynolds

The meeting was called to order at Jim Harris' residence at 7:00 pm.

Treasurer's Report
Chuck reported YTD spending is $38,337.09 versus the annual budget of $40,800.  Our current balance is $30,763.76.
There are two families that owe late payment penalties.  They will be sent a letter requesting payments.  One household has not paid this year's assessment and we are preparing a lien.

Lake and Common Ground
Jim G. reported the project to repair the dam outlet is complete.  The fence will be replaced soon by Kirkwood Fence.
Next projects include replacement of the lake signs and either repair or replacement of the playground set.

Landscape
The board approved $200 to replace the dead Creeping Juniper at the front entrance.

Symmetry Landscaping:
  I did a spring inspection of common grounds with Todd Phillips, our new Symmetry Landscaping account      manager.
  Mulch to be installed May 20, 21, or 22.
  Annuals at entrance to be installed May 15 (weather permitting).

Cul-de-sac Islands:
  Over the winter, several shrubs were damaged by unknown causes…possibly City snow/ice removal.  Also, the creeping juniper at the entrance was browned out badly.  Replacements???

  I have asked Symmetry to cut back the crape myrtle and butterfly bushes. 
  This should improve appearance and bloom.

  Hollyhead Court should be receiving a replacement tree…a tree form    purple Smokebush.

Des Peres Road Retaining Wall:
  Sedum is starting to spread in the wall pockets.
  Crab apples and Kousa dogwoods are thriving.
  City has been asked to provide mulch.

Irrigation:
  Water has been turned on. 
  There were numerous old sprayheads which had to be replaced.  They were located near the road along Beaver Dam or in the grass on the    lake side.

Playground Playset:
  I sent out a previous email report concerning the playset.  Decisions need to be made.

Bittersweet Woods:
  Department of Conservation again ran out of money to complete the honeysuckle removal.

Miscellaneous
Jim H. reported three new families have moved into the subdivision.  The following is information for the directory:

Maurice and Laura Dalton
12927 Briar Fork
616-9192
mpdalton@sbcglobal.net
Jack (8)

Brooks and Sarah Kickham
2320 Camberwell Drive
636-396-5499
blh620@yahoo.com

Rich Hall and Susan Thompson
12951 Beaver Dam Road
984-8948
Rich Cell - 973-1386
Susan Cell - 920-7613
Kelly (19), Joel (19), Phoebe (14) and Kyle (13)

Wilke, Huch and Huber should be deleted from the directory.

The board approved plans for a backyard retaining wall at 740 Stump Road.

The next trustee meeting will be Tuesday, July 8, 7:00 pm, at the Reynolds' residence.

Submitted by Jim Harris

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The August 28 Trustee meeting was called to order at 7:00 p.m. at the home of Nancy Shaffstall. All were present with the exception of Tim Fletcher. 

Guests in attendance included Pauline Matthews and Martha Bull. Pauline and Martha expressed their concerns regarding how the trustees handled the pool project at the Brown house. 

Jim Harris explained our investigation of the project and that it passed all of Des Peres ordinances and that legally we could do nothing to stop the project. Before the project began, Jim approached the Brown’s asking them to discuss the project with their neighbors but according to Pauline and Martha, they did not do so. They explained that the workers often worked well into the evening hours, taking more than 18 weeks to complete, which was disruptive to neighbors. 

The trustees thanked Martha and Pauline for sharing their concerns and encouraged them to attend the annual meeting in November and bring any issues up at that time.

President’s Report 
Jim Harris reported that the fence along Des Peres was broken and that he would get it repaired. 

Wilhelm’s submitted a design for a front porch, which meets Des Peres rules; all approved.

Treasurer’s Report 
In Tim’s absence, Jim shared an email report of the financials. 

Checks are beginning to arrive from the City and Village Tax office for the annual dues. The current account total is $62,771.45, including the $10,000.00 lake reserve.  Between now and this time next year we would have basically a standard year’s worth of expenses, plus any projects. A standard year of spending is in the $30K range. Tim estimates we would have approximately $20 to $25K to put towards the lake without dipping into the reserve. We could utilize the reserve and stretch this into the $30-$35K range and then replenish the reserve over the next 1 to 2 years by limiting any major improvement projects. Jim Harris made a motion to accept financial report and all approved.

Lake Report 
Reitz & Jens submitted a final report on the dam inspection. After looking it over, we came up with a lot of questions, which Jim Harris and Jim Gruenewald will investigate. We have not heard from MSD on our request for assistance. Jim Harris will call and if necessary, will contact other agencies to get help. 

Landscape report - Nancy Shaffstall
• Approved work completed:
Removal of dead River Birch by lake
Removal of failing tree in Hollyhead Court
Removal of 3 dead trees along Des Peres Road
2 Blue Rug junipers were installed at the entrance
Spraying of weed killer at playground/park

• Approved work yet to be completed:
Installation of 2 shrub roses (either side of entrance monument) 
Two guaranteed tree replacements along Des Peres Rd. and one in Hollyhead Court

Because the dam work cannot be done this year, Jim Harris recommended we move forward with replacement trees and plantings. All agreed.

The Symmetry Landscaping contract needs to be renewed. Estimated increase would be 3% and all approved staying with them. Our new account manager is Patricia Wedge.

Irrigation Services investigated the swampy area in the southeast corner of the playground/park. John replaced an irrigation head that was not rotating. The area will be watched to make sure this resolves the problem.

Communication Report – Carel Reynolds
Directory forms were mailed to the residents who have not replied via email for the next Neighborhood Directory.  We will wait until mid August. After that date, the missing homeowner’s information will go in exactly as before.

A newsletter will be included with the directories. Included will be information about the annual meeting, which will be held on November 13 at Des Peres City Hall.

Our next meeting was set for September 23 at Tim Fletcher’s home.

Meeting was adjourned at 8:30 p.m.

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The July 10 Trustee meeting was called to order at 7:00 p.m. at the home of Carel Reynolds. All were present with the exception of Jim Gruenewald.

No Lake Report 

Landscape report - Nancy Shaffstall

• Approved work completed:

Swing set mulch had to be replenished again because of the storm sewer backup
Installation of annuals at entrance
Replacement of soaker hose above retaining wall
Replacement of trash receptacle liners near the park
Additional marking of seedlings in playground/park woods
One crabapple tree replacement above retaining wall (per guarantee)
Repair of underground broken wire for irrigation controller at front entrance.

• Approved work yet to be completed:

Installation of 2 shrub roses (either side of entrance monument) 
Removal of dead River Birch, and it was decided that it would not be replaced..
Replacement for failing tree in Hollyhead Court (Symmetry guarantee)

• Proposals to be approved:

Entrance needs some help at an estimate of $300. All agreed to move forward with the work.

Finance Report – Tim Fletcher
Neighborhood assessments are in everyone’s hands $215 per household. .

President Report – Jim Harris
As a result of the dam inspection and at the suggestion of engineer, Don Eskridge, and several residents, a letter was drafted to MSD asking MSD for repair of the overflow bypass including any associated damage to the dam.

Communication Report – Carel Reynolds
Directory forms were sent to the residents via email for the next Neighborhood Directory but as of this date, there are still 125 forms missing. Carel will mail the form to the balance of the homeowners. Deadline will be August 1. After that date, the missing homeowner’s information will go in exactly as before.

Meeting was adjourned

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Lake Report – Jim Gruenewald
Don Eskridge, engineer with Reitz & Jens met us by the lake to discuss his report. Complete report is attached to these minutes. Because some of the problems were caused by MSD’s work last year, Carel will send the report to MSD asking for assistant in repairing further damage to the dam and the outflow structure . Trustees approved Don to move forward with design work. 

Jim reported that the aerator work would cost $3000.00. This work is almost finished and includes replacement of the motor and breaker.

Kalb Electric repaired the 3 streetlights by the lake but now 4 more are out. Jim will investigate repair costs. Jim received complaints from residents near the playground stating that the new light bulbs that Kalb used are too intense. Jim will look into installing a timer on the 3 lights so they shut down at 1:00 a.m.

Landscape report - Nancy Shaffstahl
• Approved work completed:
Swing set mulch replenished
Spring irrigation started up
Dead Serbian Spruce replaced with Colorado Blue Spruce
Gingko moved from bad location on dam to picnic table area
Bush honeysuckle removed around fenced area of lake outlet
Garden Club members planted 150 native seedlings in woodland
Sedum installed in pockets of retaining wall

• Approved work yet to be completed:
Installation of 2 shrub roses (either side of entrance monument) 
Installation of annuals at the entrance
Removal of dead River Birch – it was decided this would be put on hold for now.

• Proposals to be approved:
All proposed projects would be put on hold for now because of dam work to be done.

Finance Report – Tim Fletcher
No report at this time.

President Report – Jim Harris
Jim and Carel will begin work on the next directory.

Communication Report – Carel Reynolds
Recycling guidelines have changed so Carel will report the changes in the next newsletter. Several complaints have come in regarding the evening noise from lawnmowers. Carel will also suggest in the newsletter that residents be considerate of their neighbors in the evening hours.

Meeting was adjourned

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Landscape report - Nancy Shaffstahl
• Approved work completed:
Rejuvenation pruning of potentilla shrubs (entrance)
Swing set tarp replacement
• Approved work yet to be completed:
Removal of dead River Birch by lake plus replacement – to be done in April
Installation of 2 shrub roses (either side of entrance monument)
Installation of sedum groundcover in 1/10th of retaining wall pockets
Replenish swing set mulch
Planting of MDC seedlings
Preparation of 3 entrance beds and installation of annuals
Start-up irrigation
• Proposals:
Replace Erbian Spruce by the lake with a Colorado blue spruce - $200-250 estimate for 5-6’ – All approved
• Additional work to be discussed:
-Installation of irrigation along Des Peres Road
Would need to discuss with the 2 homeowners on either side of entrance plus city of Des Peres. Trustees decided not to pursue at this time due to budget unknowns and expense.
-Installation of motion-sensor, animal repellent spray head n the entrance island.
Mark Shaw suggested we look into motion sensor to fight deer. Nancy got information from John Arnold as well. Trustees suggest a second bid from Mark and all voted to pass if under $500.
-Work on low area of common ground behind swing set – fill dirt and grass
-Work around lake outlet – removal of bush honeysuckle, solution to existing erosion, and plantings to stabilize stream banks.
Still waiting for meeting from engineers on dam.
• Additional Notes
Symmetry has repaired tire ruts both at the entrance and the common ground.
Irrigation Services has cut off the “mysterious” white pipe at the entrance.
City of Des Peres has been asked to remove the rusty barbed wire from the old fence posts between Bittersweet Woods and Dougherty lake common ground.
Dept of Conversation has run out of funds for the bush honeysuckle clearing in Bittersweet Woods. Work will resume when new budget year starts in July.
At lease one homeowner is still dumping his yard waste (branches) into common ground woods. Not only does it look bad, it makes landscape improvements more difficult.
Erosion at dam spillway should be addressed at some time. Jim G. will ask the engineer about it.

Lake Report – Jim Gruenewald
Jim reported that the Ameren Dusk to Dawn light by the lake is out along with another by the playground which is not an Ameren light. Ameren charges $14.75/month to install 3 of their lights and maintain. All voted to move forward unless pole installation is not included.

Finance Report – Tim Fletcher
Tim reported that he checked into our insurance and we have $2 million in liability on the lake. It was suggested that we ask Des Peres to annually inspect the road (who is responsible for road repair should the dam fail?) Our insurance broker estimates $10,000 annual premium to fully insure, all agreed to let it alone for now.

Our finances are all good for now with no outstanding expenses yet this year. Taxes are paid and we will pursue the $215 assessment with City and Village based on CPI.

President Report – Jim Harris
Jim received plans for an in-ground swimming pool on Haw Thicket and advised the homeowners it met our requirements. Jim suggested we look into doing a new directory this year.

Communication Report – Carel Reynolds
Carel is working on a subdivision golf tournament this year. More info to come soon.

Meeting was adjourned.

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Landscape report - Nancy Shaffstahl
• Symmetry Landscape Management Contract (2008)  $12,338.73

• Approved work completed:
Spot over seeding turf areas  192.50
Briar Fork cul-de-sac landscaping (s. of Beaver Dam)  204.00
Briar Fork cul-de-sac landscaping (n. of Beaver Dam)  98.00
Beaver Dam Entrance Island landscaping (6 perennials)  55.00
Boxwood landscaping (n. & s. of entrance island)  645.00
Installation of 3 redbud trees (Des Peres Rd. n. of entrance)  711.00
Honeysuckle removal (park woods) 1985.00

• Approved work yet to be completed:
Removal of dead River Birch by lake plus replacement  525.00
Rejuvenation pruning of potentilla shrubs (entrance)  97.00
Installation of2 shrub roses (either side of entrance monument)  170.00
This includes removal of 2 potentilla shrubs. 
Installation of sedum groundcover in 1/10th of Des Peres Rd. 291.00
 retaining wall pockets (March/April)

• Proposals to be approved:
Replace swing set tarp (last done in 2004) 180.00
Replenish swing set mulch  135.00
Fall (2008) grass over seeding  200.00
Purchase of MDC seedlings (erosion control in newly cleared area of park woods)  50.00
Prepare 3 entrance beds/provide & install annuals  427.00
Start-up irrigation/inspect backflow 140.00

• Additional work to be investigated:
Install fill dirt in low spot of park area; plant grass 
Pending outcome of Reitz and Jens inspection, removal of bush honeysuckle around dam spillway 
Removal of dead Serbian spruce next to lake/replacement tree 
Installation of irrigation next to Des Peres Road easement

Lake Report – Jim Gruenewald
Jim reported that Reitz & Jens in set up to inspect the dam as soon as warm weather arrives.

Finance Report – Tim Fletcher
Tim checked on the Consumer Price Index and reported that the 2008 assessment should increase to $215 based on the cost of living. With renewed concerns on our lake status, Tim will check with Adrian Baker on our insurance coverage and options. Tim proposed the 2008 budget at $40,400 with $40,000 coming from assessments and all approved.

President Report – Jim Harris
Jim suggested we begin work on a March newsletter.

Communication Report – Carel Reynolds
Carel will begin working on the next newsletter. No other report.

Meeting was adjourned

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The finances are up to date with no unexpected expenditures.  We are within budget for the 2007 fiscal year.

Jim Gruenewald contacted the Reitz and Jens professional engineering company to perform a complete dam re-inspection.  This will include the valve, the outlet and the dam, including any possible damage due to plant growth and the dam base.

The landscape report is as follows:

Playground/Park – the latest word on the MSD sod restoration is that it is to be done next Thursday or Friday, September 27 or 28.

Cul-de-sac Circles – This has been a difficult summer for the new landscaping.  Symmetry plans to replace many plants under warrant.  Homeowners must help with watering because these plants will not be replaced a second time.

Landscape Proposals:
• Spot overseed turf areas at the park and along Des Peres Road
• Clear invasive honeysuckle shrubs from the wooded area of the park; treat stumps with herbicide and haul away brush.
• In Briar Fork cul-de-sac south of Beaver Dam, remove three Barberries and plant 12 variegated Liriope
• In Briar Fork cul-de-sac north of Beaver Dam, plant 6 Sedum and 6 Lamb’s Ear
• Plant 4 Heuchera perennials in the entrance island
• Plant Boxwoods north and south of the entrance along the fence between the first and second brick pillars.

The common ground reseeding is complete.  Cost was $192.50.

The landscape proposals listed above will be costed by Nancy Shaffstall and submitted to the trustees for approval.  All cost items are included in the budget plan.

Repainting of the guardrail at the dam and playground was approved and should be completed in late October by David Drake painting contractors.

A swimming pool plan for the Browns at 740 Haw Thicket was approved.

A proposal was submitted to individually decorate the street light posts for the holidays, versus the uniform approach.  After discussion, the plan was approved.  Susan Stephens agreed to lead the effort.

Trustee Carel Reynolds did an outstanding job on the current newsletter.

The annual homeowners’ meeting is scheduled for Thursday, November 15 at 7:00 p.m. at Des Peres City Hall Council Chambers.

Submitted by Jim Harris

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Trustees Present: Jim Harris, Nancy Shaffstall, Tim Fletcher, Jim Gruenewald & Carel Reynolds.

Jim Harris called the meeting to order at 7:30 p.m. 

Minutes were approved from the previous meeting. 

Nancy Shaffstall reported the following on landscaping:
• Playground/Park- In January, Symmetry did rejuvenation pruning of 3 burning bushes next to the butterfly garden. The swing-set tarp is stored at Nancy’s house for the winter. There were additional small cuts (apparently due to vandalism) that she repaired with the appropriate color of duct tape. Nancy recommended no replacement tarp this year. Cost would be $160. The current tarp was purchased in 2004 and warranted for 3 years. New tarps are now warranted for 5 years. We will need to look at it for the 2008 budget.
• Right-of-Way South of Entrance- The City of Des Peres has agreed to reimburse the subdivision $5000 for landscaping work in the right-of-way. We are to pay Rosch Company when the retaining wall is completed and then submit a copy of the bill to the City.
Symmetry Landscaping was the lowest bidder for tree removal work above the retaining wall. In the past, they have provided good tree removal services for the subdivision and they agreed to do this work in a timely manner, as requested. The tree removals and stump grinding were done on January 10th.
Scott Rozier from Rosch company said tht he would be meeting on January 17th with his riding boss to show him what is going on at our site and to establish a start date. I expect to be hearing from him soon as there is a break in the cold weather.
Companies which were not selected to do our tree removal and retaining wall work have been sent letters. I thanked them for their bids and let them know we had decided to go with other contractors.
• Newsletter Artlcle – Nancy submitted an article entitled “Improving Dougherty Lake’s Curb Appeal” to Carel Reynolds for the upcoming Dougherty lake newsletter. This article describes the background and ongoing work in the right-of-way south of the entrance.

Jim Gruenewald gave the lake/maintenance report. Jim reported that one of the bubblers needed some repair which will be completed before March.

Tim reported on the budget which was on schedule. 2007 Assessments: Per the Dougherty Lake Subdivision Restrictive Agreement the annual assessment for 2007 will be increased in proportion to the increase in the U.S. Departments of Labor's Consumer Price Index (for All Urban Consumers, All Items, St. Louis, Missouri).  Therefore, the standard assessment will increase from the 2006 level of $207.50 to $211 in 2007.  Assessments will be mailed to each lot owner by the City and Village Tax Office in April or May.

The next meeting was set for April 10, 2007 at 7:15 pm at Jim Harris’ home.

The meeting adjourned at 8:45 p.m.

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Trustees Present: Jim Harris, Nancy Shaffstall, Tim Fletcher, Jim Gruenewald & Carel Reynolds.

Jim Harris called the meeting to order at 7:30 p.m. 

Minutes were approved from the previous meeting.  Jim recapped the annual meeting for Jim G and Carel.

Jim asked Carel to include an article in the next newsletter about homeowners allowing debris to accumulate around the Des Peres Road fence.  In addition, Jim asked Carel to contact neighborhood club organizers for input for the next newsletter. The next newsletter will go out the end of January. All trustees should get an article to Carel by 1/15. Carel will also contact Joe Odgers to see when he plans to update the website.

Jim G had no report on the lake. He will keep the bubbler running thru the winter for wildlife. 

Tim reported on the budget which was on schedule. Plans are to clean Streetlights again and replace some missing parts in the spring. He is still trying to get Kalb Electric out to repair lights. Several homeowners have asked who to call for light repair besides Kalb. Tim suggested Metro Electric.

Nancy Shaffstall reported the following on landscaping:
• Playground/Park- Four trees were removed from the forest line next to the playground. The trees removed were either dead, storm damaged, and/or potentially hazardous. The work was done by a Symmetry landscaping subcontractor.
• Entrance Island- As was reported at the November homeowners’ meeting, additional landscaping has been installed at the entrance island.
• Storm Damage Cleanup- The City of Des Peres will conduct city wide limb clean up effort on Saturday, December 8. There are broken limbs from a white pine on the playground/park and also from a tree across the street next to the lake. Nancy is in the process of determining who will be responsible for cutting up the limbs and putting them out for either limb clean up or yard waste removal.
• Right-of-Way South of Entrance- The day before the November annual homeowners’ meeting, Nancy received a letter from Mayor Lahr in response to our capital project request. Our request was for retaining wall improvement in the right-of-way south of the Dougherty Lake entrance. The City has included a landscaping improvement allocation of $5,000 for this site in their 2007 budget. City staff can be used. In addition, if the trustees wish to supplement the funds being provided by the city or the work done by the city, we are welcome to do so. A thank you letter has been sent. Trustees will continue to work on this project.

The meeting adjourned at 8:45 p.m.

Respectfully submitted by Carel Reynolds                                                                          12/15/2006

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Trustees Present: Jim Harris, Nancy Shaffstall, Tim Fletcher, Jim Gruenewald & interim trustee Carel Reynolds.

Jim Harris called the meeting to order at 7:30 p.m. 

Minutes were approved from the previous meeting on September 11.

Jim Harris noted that Steve Askren has resigned as trustee due to the press of his business.  Carel Reynolds has volunteered to assume the remaining year of his term.  Jim asked if all agreed on this nomination, Tim Fletcher seconded and all agreed. The terms of Jim Gruenewald and Nancy Shaffstall have expired so Jim Harris asked both if they would consider serving a second three-year term and both agreed.  All three nominations will be presented at the annual meeting in November.

Jim Gruenewald stated he would be out of town for the annual meeting but will submit a report.

Tim Fletcher showed a power point report on the upcoming budget and all went over it thoroughly.  Two major items were presented: 
• Plans are to paint the guardrail along both sides of Beaver Dam Road along the lake dam.
• Pump repairs have been a continuing issue with the lake aerators and while the trustees hope there will be no major repairs next year, money is set aside for this.
Tim motioned an increase in the subdivision assessment at the annual meeting, the amount to be determined in January, which would be in line with the Consumer Price Index for the area. Jim Harris seconded and all approved. Carel motioned that we accept the final budget, and was approved by all.

Jim Gruenewald presented a report on the lake and streetlight maintenance.
• The lake required more algaecide treatment this year because of the warm summer and storms.
• At one point, the lake was in some backyards because of extreme rainfall.
• We are also treating the lake water to reduce sludge accumulation in the bottom.
• Residents should assure that only rainwater goes in our storm sewers; everything that goes in them ends up in the lake.
• We have replaced polypropylene lines holding the aerators with steel lines.
• We have replaced parts in the aerator at the south end of the lake.  Residents think the plastic swan holding the lines up is much classier than the formerly used milk jug.
• Streetlights were cleaned.  Plans are to clean them again and replace some missing parts in the spring.

Carel Reynolds agreed to publish 4 newsletters in the next year and forward everything to Joe Odgers for the website. 

Nancy Shaffstall reported the following:
• Cul-de-sac Circles - Five of the seven cul-de-sac islands received landscaping improvements in September.  Shrubs and perennials which were added are drought-tolerant once established.  Cul-de-sac neighbors have been asked to furnish supplemental water as needed.
• Common Ground - A Ginkgo tree was planted on the playground area just west of the swing set.  A small section of sod was laid on a steep slope at the east end of the playground area where runoff was causing erosion.  Other bare sections were seeded as necessary.  A dead Serbian Spruce (S.E. side of lake common ground) was replaced by Symmetry per their guarantee.  Symmetry will soon be removing three dead or dying trees in the wooded area next to the swing set.
• Basketball Court - The court was sealed by David Olszowka of D & O Sealing for a cost of $70.
• Future Plans - Proposal to enhance entrance island and cul-de-sac circle improvements

Leaf pickup was discussed again and it was decided that it would be discontinued this year because the cost estimate was much higher than last year and was not a good use of funds, primarily because:
- With a variety of trees in the neighborhood, leaves fall at different times.  One pickup cannot get all of the leaves and two pickups would be prohibitively expensive.  When pickup was provided, only about half the homeowners took advantage of it.
- After paying for lighting, general landscape maintenance, lake and other maintenance, our discretionary funds are quite small.  The trustees feel that other projects will do more to benefit everyone in the subdivision and maintain property values.
We will continue to have common ground leaf pickup and street cleaning at the end of the season.  Tim will check into the schedule for street sweeping by Des Peres and then schedule ours 

Jim noted that the fall party at the park was a huge success thanks to Susan Stephens and her team of volunteers.

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Board Members Present: Jim Harris, Jim Gruenewald, Nancy Shaffstall, and Tim Fletcher.  Carel Reynolds was also in attendance.

Jim Harris started the meeting by announcing that Steve Askren had resigned as Communications Trustee and that he had asked Carel Reynolds to consider taking over this position for the balance of Steve’s term (to Nov. 2007). Carel agreed and therefore will run for office in November per the Restrictive Agreement. Carel stated that she would contact Steve to obtain trustee files and the annual meeting sign.

Nancy’s Landscaping Report was as follows:

1. With the success of the 2006 Garden Club Subdivision Meeting that was held at the Lodge, the Dougherty Lake Garden Club requested assistant with this year’s program in the amount of $120. All agreed to consider it in the 2007 budget.
2. Hollyhead Court Circle – on Friday, Sept. 8, Symmetry completed a project in Hollyhead Court Circle. Five overgrown junipers and four overgrown yews were removed. Five dwarf crape myrtle shrubs were planted. Cost: $446
3. Symmetry has been asked for an estimate on deal tree and limb removal from the area adjacent to the playground/picnic area. Cost: possibly $400
4. Future Plans: Cost - $1100 for Cul-de-sacs and $1100 for tree work
-Common ground next to lake – Nancy asked if we would consider planting a tree in the bare spot near the dam. Jim responded by saying that the dam outlet culvert is cracked  and that roots from a tree would just add to the problem, and all agreed.
-Common ground next to the playground – Nancy asked about planting a Ginko in the open area near the street at approx. $3-400. All liked the idea.
-Cul-de-sac islands – Briar Fork Ct. lost 4 sweet spires; Briar Fork Rd. S needs no work; Briar Fork N, need to remove two trees but homeowners like it so they will be left alone for now; Camberwell needs no work; Hollyhead Dr. Circle needs some work, Hollyhead Ct also needs euonymus cut back and other work. 
- Entrance – add some perennials
- Des Peres Road Easement – South- still waiting to see if the city will finish the retaining wall. They stated that are trying to get it into the budget. North – Old red buds are in bad shape but will wait for them to die. Nancy suggested we set some money aside for future easement work.

Tim’s Budget Report is as follows:

1. $1375 under budget for landscape work.
2. Lake had 3 treatments this year - $900; Pump repair budget of $1500 not used; Electric bill up $800 from last year due to running aerators 24/7 and that last year they were down for some time; next year it will most likely go up much higher; Kalb Electric bill of over $2000 is still outstanding, Jim G will contact him again;
3. $2000 budget for painting the guard rail by lake was not spent.  It was decided to delay for a year because painting is an appearance item.
4. Leaf pickup cost would go up significantly this year (from $3000 to $6000) so the trustees decided it was not cost effective to continue. One option would be to hire a company to just clean the streets but all agreed it would be money poorly spent.  Jim G. made a motion to stop leaf pickup and Tim seconded the motion, all agreed. 
5. Tim estimated there was $2200 left over in the budget so it was agreed that Nancy could use that money for her future landscape ideas this fall.

Jim Gruenewald’s Lake Report is as follows:

1. Water condition - Since this past summer was particularly warm and rainfall was below normal, it was necessary to treat the lake with a strong algaecide 3 different times to kill off the surface bloom of bright green algae.  Last year the lake only needed 2 treatments. 
The lake was also treated 3 times with a biologic agent designed to increase the amount of “good bacteria” in the lake which in turn digests the dead algae and assists to degrade the accumulated sludge build up in the bottom of the lake.  These treatments are performed regardless of the algaecide treatment.
2. Aerators - At the beginning of the summer season, the polypropylene rope anchor lines to the aerators were replaced with stainless steel wire rope.  This proved to be a wise maintenance move in lieu of the heavy storms that blew through this summer.  Those neighbors not living on the lake may be unaware that the lake rose over the eastern tie wall lake perimeter into several back yards during one particularly strong storm. 
3. Wildlife - There were 7 wintering Canada Geese at our lake last winter.  A Hooded Merganser showed up briefly during mid-winter.  For the second year in a row an additional 25-30 geese dropped in towards the end of May and stayed until mid-July.  There are 9 Mallard ducks living on our lake right now.  9 Mallard ducklings hatched in early summer, but their number dropped to 4 within one week, 3 by mid-July and only 1 remains.  There are 2 pairs of Green Herons living on the lake.  One visiting Great Blue Heron.  At least one Kingfisher.  A nesting Pileated Woodpecker (close to the lake).  And at the end of spring, one very lonely Bull Frog, to name a few creatures. 

Jim H has a request from one homeowner at 2426 Hollyhead Drive for a new deck and all approved.

The annual meeting is set for Thursday, November 16 at Des Peres City Hall at 7:00 p.m..

Regarding elections at the November 2006 annual meeting, Jim Gruenewald and Nancy Shaffstall have agreed to serve as trustees for 3 more years. Carel Reynolds will run for Communications Trustee.

The next meeting to discuss budget was set for Monday, October 2 at Tim’s house at 7:15 p.m..

Meeting was adjourned.

All Trustees were present and our guest was Tim Fletcher the nominee for treasurer
Paul’s term will expire Dec. 31, 2005.

Finance – Paul Shaver

Paul asked Nancy and Jim G (Lake and Landscape) if they could review past spending in order to help estimate budget numbers for the 2006 budget.  We went over the 2005 budget.

Annual subdivision fee will be a minimum of $209.00/household 

1. Reviewed Treasurer’s Accomplishments from 2003 – 2005 
2. Recommended Symmetry Landscaping as a vendor 
3. Instituted lake-friendly Fall leave pick-ups 
4. Instituted Directors and Officers Liability Insurance 
5. Researched cost/benefit of paying for insurance coverage or self insuring subdivision assets (entrance monument, streetlights, fences) Trustees voted to remain self insured.
6. Discovered that Dougherty Lake Subdivision must file a tax return for both State and Federal. 
7. Worked with a tax preparer filed our return.  $75.00 taxes paid for 2004.  Future treasures should be able to complete returns using the 2004 return as a template.

Paul recommended that future Trustees have some background in their area of responsibilities.  He also noted that if/when and “project” is done that the responsible person writes a report documenting what was done and why so it can be filed for future reference. 

Landscape – Nancy Shaffstall 

Symmetry planted the Carolina Silverbell on Hollyhead Court Circle and the 6 dwarf crape myrtle shrubs on Hollyhead Drive Circle as was approved at prior Trustees meeting.

Irrigation Services repaired a leaky valve that was causing water to pool in the Beaver Dam easement in front of the lakeIrrigation system will be winterized before winter

Compared cost of using Symmetry vs. current vendor for the irrigation system voted to continue with John Arnold or Irrigation Services.

Des Peres Road Easement – September 28th Nancy meet with two MDOC officials Rob Emmett an Urban Forester and Tim Frevert a landscape architect.  They examined the area around the retaining wall to determine what help they could provide with this project.  Initial comments include removing several trees that are unhealthy, aggressive, or susceptible to being blown over.  Also noted that it would it be advantageous if the retaining wall was built higher so the area on top was not sloping so much.  Tim Frevert will work on a design. 

Rod Emmett the MDOC urban forester noted that several Ash trees in the subdivision are in decline.  (article in the newsletter) 

Two leaf pick ups are set for November

• Mounting aerators with a cable system will be a 2006 item about March timeframe
• Aerator motors might need an oil change will check manufactures suggestion plus warranty information. 
• Found a second bulb that will work in our streetlights.  Finding replacement bulbs is difficult seems like the stores are often sold out.  The bulbs in the lights fail more often than they should.  It might be the wiring or the transformers.

• Nov 15th – Homeowners meeting 
• Directory is coming along 
• Phantom Forest will be developed with a walking trail 
• Susan Trautman with the city of Des Peres will be at our homeowners meeting to talk about the Goodson Property and Phantom Forest.  The city of Des Peres will most likely try to join these two properties for a nature area with walking trails.

• Newsletter was printed and mailed – Thanks for the articles contributed and to Jackie Dougherty for her assistance.
• New residents should be getting copies of the subdivision restrictive agreements direct from City and Village. 
• It was suggested that future newsletters include the names and phone #s of Trustees

Finance - Paul Shaver

• Nonpayment of the annual subdivision fees caused the Trustees to file a lien against subject property.  City and Village Tax office continue to actively work on collecting the annual fee from several homeowners that are overdue.
• Insurance for the subdivision was up for renewal.  Paul researched the policy and updated the carrier with correct number of homes and lakes that should be covered.  The Trustees approved a cost increase of $230.00 per year for the insurance which includes an additional one million dollars in liability coverage so we now carry two million in coverage.
• Subdivision assets such as the fence along Des Peres Road, street lights, and entrance sign continue to be uninsured and damage to any of these items will be addressed on an as needed bases.
•  Budget vs. Actual spending:  Actual and projected spending through 9/30/05 place us $1,764.00 over budget.  October 1, 2005 starts the new budget period for 2006.  These expenses will be covered in the new 2006 budget.  The painting of the fence along Des Peres Road was an unplanned item that pushed us over budget.
• Greg Rolfes and Paul will finalize the tax return and file before Sept 15th.
• A special assessment for the Lake Account may be needed when the next bill goes out to collect subdivision fees.  Note:  $20.00 to $30.00 per household.

• Large fountain aerator has stopped running several times.  The breaker for the pump may be the reason for this.  A new breaker will be bought and installed to fix the problem.  If that does not resolve the problem we will go to the pump manufacturer for repairs.  (This pump is under warranty)
• Bulb replacement continues to be an ongoing issue in the streetlights.  Finding the bulbs is also difficult.

• Hollyhead Court Circle – Storm damaged redbud tree removed and replaced with a Carolina Silverbell.  This new ornamental tree has good fall color and spring flowers it is also drought tolerant.  Cost $250.00 (THANK YOU – Charles Schrock for cutting down the storm damaged redbud tree) 
• Hollyhead Drive Circle - Symmetry Landscaping recommended rejuvenating the existing barberry bushes by cutting them back late this fall and planting 6 dwarf crape myrtle bushes for the vacant area in the circle.  Cost $300.00
• Plant a Serbian Spruce in the common ground southeast of the lake area to replace the dead white pine that was removed earlier this year.  Cost $200.00
• Our contract with Symmetry was renewed.  We have had excellent service with this landscape company.
• Missouri American Water has been very cooperative in repairing the area along Briar Fork Road Circle after working on the water main.  They filled in dirt to bring the ground level and replaced four yews. 
• Recognition was given to the helpful neighbors in the subdivision that “adopted” some new plantings and watered them throughout the hot summer.
• Nancy is working with Mark Shaw to improve the plants within the entrance island. 
• LEAF PICKUP – We will have two pickups:
• Week of October 24th and 
• Week of November 28th 

• The newsletter was sent out a BIG THANK you to Carel Reynolds & Jim Harris for taking charge of this task.
• Next newsletter will be mailed by October 15, 2005.  Please submit articles or ideas for the newsletter by October 1st.  Submissions can be made by e-mail to steveaskren@kw.com.
• Our Trustee Paul Shaver is retiring and we are in need of a new Trustee. Paul has done an outstanding job as Treasurer.  Encourage your neighbors to get involved and be a Trustee
• Nov 15th is the annual DL subdivision meeting 7:00 pm at the Des Peres City Council room. 
• The next Trustee meeting is October 15th at 772 Haw Thicket at 8:30 am 

• Work on the fence along Des Peres Road is completed.  Thank you to the homeowners along the fence row for cooperating with this effort. $4680 was the cost for painting the fence.  This included prep work like removal of plant material along and under the fence, power washing the fence and application of stain. 
• Guard Rail along the lake was discussed it will most likely need painting next year.  We will revisit this issue then. 
• Jim has contacted Susan Trautman with the city of Des Peres about the development of the Goodson Property (Bittersweet Woods).  We are specifically concerned with the portion that backs to our common area near the playground.  Development of this area will be open to public input and will not begin until the land is vacated.  Could be years before this occurs.

Finance - Paul Shaver

• The Assessment for 2005 of $200 per household was presented and passed. 
• Reviewed budget vs. actual cost and as of March 12th we are within our budget
• The Tax return for the subdivision is being prepared by Greg Rolfes. 
• Paul opened the discussion about the age of the subdivision and possible future need for major repairs and capital improvements.  It is anticipated that the cost of the these project might not be met by regular assessment revenue neccessitating frequent special assessments. Therefore, should Dougherty Lake consider establishing a Capital Maintenance and Improvement account funded with smaller special assessments on a yearly basis to offset future large cost?  This question will be examined as the Subdivision’s future needs are assessed. 

• Briar Fork Road Circle was dug up during a water main repair project.  Proactively, Nancy has been in contact with the water department and they have assured her that the affected areas will be restored.  Nancy will continue to monitor the progress.
• The plastic conduit containing wiring for the spotlight on the south side of the Dougherty Lake Entry sign was damaged.  Symmetry landscaping will fix the break at no cost to the subdivision
• New park bench wood has arrived and been installed.  We are thankful to Fred and Nancy Shaffstall for doing the installation 
• Charles Schrock removed the dead white pine at the corner of the lake common ground.
• The trustees passed the following proposal:
• Shade Garden proposal for the backside of the playground area.
• Remove ivy from the Dougherty Lake cedar fence continue along tree line toward large boulder west of fence. 
• Mulch area along the fence and tree line and several feet down the hill.  Symmetry Landscaping will remove the ivy and mulch for $745.00. 
• The Garden Club will take care of maintaining the appearance of the shade garden just as they do with the butterfly garden in the playground area. 
• The new trash service company has not been taking the trash from cans in the common area.  They have been contacted and are now picking up weekly.
• The area along Des Peres Road between the fence and sidewalk is still not free of invasive plants that will continue to cause problems unless removed.  It would be a waste of money to landscape the area now because the invasive plants would grow back and take over the area within a few years.  Nancy has been in contact with Denis Knock from The Des Peres Public Works Department and Steve Spezia with Missouri Department of Conservation about this project.  We are very thankful to the City of Des Peres for all the work they have done so far.  The subdivision will wait until spring of 2006 before considering planting/landscaping the area. 

• Still working with Kalb Electric about the street lights going out too often.  They will most likely replace some internal street light components. 
• Pump repair has been delayed.  We are looking for parts.  The other aerator is in and working 
• To preserve the fence along Des Peres Road, we are investigating cost and the best method to seal/paint the fence 

• A file will be started and maintained for each subdivision projects that has been approved by the trustees. 
• Contact Des Peres planning committee about the Goodson property and possible walking trail from Sugar Creek Park to our subdivision.  Feeling is that we DO NOT want any “connection” or access by walking path into Dougherty Lake, or parking in the subdivision established for this purpose.

Election of office 
Two new members started on the board Jan 1 of 2005 
Jim Harris accepted the position of board president 
Steve Askren accepted position of communication / Secretary
Treasurer, Paul Shaver retained his office 
Lake and Maintenance, James Gruenewald retained his office 
Landscaping, Nancy Shaffstall retained her office 

Treasurer Report
Bank signature card will be updated allowing newly appointed president to sign checks. 
Motion passed for a subdivision tax return to be completed and filed.  Paul will hire preparer and complete tax return.
Projected budget for 2005 was presented and approved. 
Paul and James Gruenwald will look at the accounting method currently used in regard to recording lake expenses.  Per our subdivision agreement a “lake reserve” account must be maintained but this account is idle.  Paul and James will look at “running” all lake expenses through this account so lake cost can be tracked better and if needed an assessment can be made to cover lake expenses as outlined in the subdivision agreement. 

Lake and Maintenance – Report from Jim Gruenewald 
Ted Kalb does our electric work for subdivision.  It appears that we will need to find a replacement for him as we expect him to retire soon. 

Pump for lake fountain (one closest to the dam) needs replacement. Cost is approx $2,500.00.  Installation and warranty will be an additional cost.  During the next Trustees meeting we will determine what action to take.  It was suggested that we contact Steve Bradich with City of Des Peres. He takes care of the pumps at the city park he might be able to offer some insight.

Lanscaping – Nancy Shaffstall
Fence along entrance to the subdivision needs painting as does the guard rail along the lake. 
Nancy and Jim Gruenewald were asked to gather bids for the fence maintenance and present at the March Trustees meeting.

City cleared out the hilllside above the retaining wall along Des Peres Road on the south end of the subdivision fence.  We will replant and maintain.
Water Company did some damage while doing repair work.  We will work with them to assure that the damaged areas are repaired. 
City planted four trees within the subdivision.
Nancy recommended that we renew contract with Symmetry for Lawn Care Services.  It was agreed.

Next Trustees meeting – Saturday, March 12 at 8:30 AM 
2405 Hollyhead Drive

We will take pictures of Trustees at that time to update the website.
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