2019 HVOA Building Paint Schedule
180, 186, 192, 198 Rose Hip Circle
130, 132, 134, Rose Hip Circle
121, 127, 133, 139 Rose Hip Circle
25, 31, 37 Woodbine Place
673, 675, 677, 679 Sunburst Drive
180, 186, 192, 198 Rose Hip Circle
130, 132, 134, Rose Hip Circle
121, 127, 133, 139 Rose Hip Circle
25, 31, 37 Woodbine Place
673, 675, 677, 679 Sunburst Drive
| 11.27.18 BOD Meeting Summary.pdf |
| 2018_annual_meeting_summary.pdf |
| 2018 Roofing Project List.pdf |
| 2018 Building Painting Schedule.pdf |
| 2017 Annual Meeting Summary from BOD Chair.pdf |
| 2017 Annual Meeting Packet.pdf |
Monday, April 24
The bears are out! This photo was taken Friday evening from an owner's deck. Please make sure you are being bear aware for the everyone's safety. Happy spring in Big Sky.
The bears are out! This photo was taken Friday evening from an owner's deck. Please make sure you are being bear aware for the everyone's safety. Happy spring in Big Sky.
Sunday, February 26
Please be advised that the Hidden Village Board of Directors is scheduled to meet on Thursday, March 2nd at 4:00 p.m. The meeting will be held at the Big Sky Water and Sewer District Conference Room. An agenda will be sent out prior to the meeting via email.
Please be advised that the Hidden Village Board of Directors is scheduled to meet on Thursday, March 2nd at 4:00 p.m. The meeting will be held at the Big Sky Water and Sewer District Conference Room. An agenda will be sent out prior to the meeting via email.
October 2016 Letter to members from chairperson regarding annual meeting:
I want to thank all owners who attended the HV annual meeting. Also want to thank members who participated via the phone conference. We all have a shared interest in the current state and future of HV and each owner’s participation is important. Following is brief review of the highlights of the meeting. It does not replace the minutes.
Remove Vote on Fan Project from Agenda
Prior to the meeting, the Board received an email from Doug S. on behalf of the roofing committee requesting the vote on the fan project be removed from the agenda. At the beginning of the meeting I made this motion seconded by Doug S. Discussion was deferred until the roofing discussion of the agenda.
HVOA Attorney Presentation
Kristen Brown, HVOA’s attorney, made a brief presentation. Summary points are as follows:
Chair-Person Report
I made the chair-person report. The Board has worked very hard on behalf of the Association. After reviewing bids from multiple contractors, we contracted with Hammond Property Management as our new HOA Manager and Alpine Reflections as our new groundskeeper. The Board is very pleased with both and we have heard positive comments from owners. HPM brings a professional and experience staff to not only service HV but also help HV address long term challenges. I have received multiple compliments on the appearance of our campus as have other owners. As stated, the quality of our campus not only increases the quality of life at HV but enhances the market values of owner units. The Board and HPM has worked very closely with Samantha Honatke of Knaub & Company, CPAs, the HOA’s accounting firm, to develop a more detailed and transparent budget process. The Board approved the formation of a roofing committee which worked very hard this past year gathering information on the HVOA roofing situation. Finally, the Board held several town hall meetings to discuss topics of interest including roofing, By-Laws, parking, dog waste, and speeding. We will continue to hold town halls in the future to discuss areas of interest and concern.
HPM Report
S. Hammond presented a brief report after working with HVOA for a little over two months. He spoke to the increased involvement with the CPA and the increased transparency of the budget. Hammond stated that HPM has been getting to know the pool, landscaping, roofs, and BOD and will continue to do so as the team spends more time on campus and working with the BOD and homeowners.
Roofing Discussion
We had an informative and helpful roofing discussion.
Doug S. started by reviewing the roofing committee’s report to the Board and reasons for removing the fan project from agenda. The reasons for removing the fan project from the agenda being that upgrading and replacing the fans would not take place this year and the roofing committee would use the upcoming year to obtain and analyze more information regarding the performance of working fans and roofs that have leakage problems. Doug also emphasized that the shingles on all units are at the end of their life expectancy and need to be replaced in the near future. This is a separate but related issue to dealing with leaking roofs, current and in the future. The estimated minimum cost is around $1 million dollars or about $7,000 per unit. It is important this is a minimum estimate and could cost more. Also, this estimate is for shingles only, repairing roofs that leak is a separate issue and will be an additional cost.
Scott Hammond of HPM reviewed their experiences with roofing issues at various HOA’s they manage.
Andy Dreisbach, a local roofing contractor with Cornerstone Management Services, made an interesting and informative slide presentation regarding roofing issues, ice dams and leaks. He also discussed cold roofs as one solution and the estimated additional costs of a cold roof if added to a shingle project. Note: Andy made this presentation to the HOA as a favor to the Board and no owner should hold him to any numbers until he has had time to assess HV roofs. Once he has done that, he will make a report to the Board which will forward on to owners.
Jeff Weigen, a HV owner and a roofing claims adjuster by profession who travels the US regarding large insurance claims on roofs, also made a presentation regarding his experiences and suggestions for HV.
This was followed by a Q&A and discussion with all of our speakers. This was concluded by a vote to remove the fan project from agenda which was approved unanimously.
Treasurer’s Report
Susie Leach made the Treasurer’s Report. Though the fiscal year is not completed, at this time it is projected that we will have a surplus at the end of the year.
New Business
Elections
Three current Board member’s terms had ended and all three agreed to serve another term. There was a motion and second to approve their reelection which was approved unanimously.
Thanks again to all who participated.
Doyle A. Ranstrom
I want to thank all owners who attended the HV annual meeting. Also want to thank members who participated via the phone conference. We all have a shared interest in the current state and future of HV and each owner’s participation is important. Following is brief review of the highlights of the meeting. It does not replace the minutes.
Remove Vote on Fan Project from Agenda
Prior to the meeting, the Board received an email from Doug S. on behalf of the roofing committee requesting the vote on the fan project be removed from the agenda. At the beginning of the meeting I made this motion seconded by Doug S. Discussion was deferred until the roofing discussion of the agenda.
HVOA Attorney Presentation
Kristen Brown, HVOA’s attorney, made a brief presentation. Summary points are as follows:
- HVOA is a non-profit organization which does not receive any funding from government entities or disperse government funds and for this reason is not subject to MT open meeting rules. Also, the HOA can use Robert’s Rules of Orders as a guideline, but the HOA does not have to follow them.
- Owners own the drywall in for each unit. The HOA owns drywall out which includes all common and limited common areas.
- The Declaration and Bylaws govern the Association and the Board, along with Rules and Regulations enacted pursuant to the Bylaws. These are the “governing documents” for the entire condominium.
- After a warning, the Board can assess fines to owners who violate the governing documents.
Chair-Person Report
I made the chair-person report. The Board has worked very hard on behalf of the Association. After reviewing bids from multiple contractors, we contracted with Hammond Property Management as our new HOA Manager and Alpine Reflections as our new groundskeeper. The Board is very pleased with both and we have heard positive comments from owners. HPM brings a professional and experience staff to not only service HV but also help HV address long term challenges. I have received multiple compliments on the appearance of our campus as have other owners. As stated, the quality of our campus not only increases the quality of life at HV but enhances the market values of owner units. The Board and HPM has worked very closely with Samantha Honatke of Knaub & Company, CPAs, the HOA’s accounting firm, to develop a more detailed and transparent budget process. The Board approved the formation of a roofing committee which worked very hard this past year gathering information on the HVOA roofing situation. Finally, the Board held several town hall meetings to discuss topics of interest including roofing, By-Laws, parking, dog waste, and speeding. We will continue to hold town halls in the future to discuss areas of interest and concern.
HPM Report
S. Hammond presented a brief report after working with HVOA for a little over two months. He spoke to the increased involvement with the CPA and the increased transparency of the budget. Hammond stated that HPM has been getting to know the pool, landscaping, roofs, and BOD and will continue to do so as the team spends more time on campus and working with the BOD and homeowners.
Roofing Discussion
We had an informative and helpful roofing discussion.
Doug S. started by reviewing the roofing committee’s report to the Board and reasons for removing the fan project from agenda. The reasons for removing the fan project from the agenda being that upgrading and replacing the fans would not take place this year and the roofing committee would use the upcoming year to obtain and analyze more information regarding the performance of working fans and roofs that have leakage problems. Doug also emphasized that the shingles on all units are at the end of their life expectancy and need to be replaced in the near future. This is a separate but related issue to dealing with leaking roofs, current and in the future. The estimated minimum cost is around $1 million dollars or about $7,000 per unit. It is important this is a minimum estimate and could cost more. Also, this estimate is for shingles only, repairing roofs that leak is a separate issue and will be an additional cost.
Scott Hammond of HPM reviewed their experiences with roofing issues at various HOA’s they manage.
Andy Dreisbach, a local roofing contractor with Cornerstone Management Services, made an interesting and informative slide presentation regarding roofing issues, ice dams and leaks. He also discussed cold roofs as one solution and the estimated additional costs of a cold roof if added to a shingle project. Note: Andy made this presentation to the HOA as a favor to the Board and no owner should hold him to any numbers until he has had time to assess HV roofs. Once he has done that, he will make a report to the Board which will forward on to owners.
Jeff Weigen, a HV owner and a roofing claims adjuster by profession who travels the US regarding large insurance claims on roofs, also made a presentation regarding his experiences and suggestions for HV.
This was followed by a Q&A and discussion with all of our speakers. This was concluded by a vote to remove the fan project from agenda which was approved unanimously.
Treasurer’s Report
Susie Leach made the Treasurer’s Report. Though the fiscal year is not completed, at this time it is projected that we will have a surplus at the end of the year.
New Business
- Though it will not be part of By-Laws or Rules and Regulations, we suggested owners who rent their units may wish to obtain back ground checks on their long term renters. There are vendors which will do this for owners at a reasonable fee.
- The Restated Rules and Regulations were approved unanimously with a voice vote.
- There was a detailed discussion regarding the proposed budget. The discussion was mainly centered on the proposed increase to the roofing reserves. There was a motion made and seconded to reduce the proposed assessment from a total of $300,000 to $100,000. During the discussion after this motion, Doug S. pointed out at minimum the HVOA needs to finance $1 million dollars, at $100,000 a year it would take ten years to do so and HVOA does not have this much time. This motion was defeated in a voice vote almost unanimously. The motion to approve the proposed budget by the Board was passed almost unanimously.
Elections
Three current Board member’s terms had ended and all three agreed to serve another term. There was a motion and second to approve their reelection which was approved unanimously.
Thanks again to all who participated.
Doyle A. Ranstrom
SEPTEMBER 28, 2016
Please note that due to heavy bear activity at the compactor, we have been advised by FWP to utilize a padlock on the compactor door for the time being. I have included the notice issued by FWP to all residents of Gallatin, Madison and Yellowstone county residents in this email for more information.
The padlock is fluorescent orange and there is a key hanging from a chain with fluorescent orange (see photo below). Please make sure to secure the padlock when you are finished disposing of your garbage AND be extremely cautious when in the dumpster area.
Owners with tenants, please make sure to share this with all those residing in your unit. Please feel free to contact the office with any questions regarding this safety measure.
The padlock is fluorescent orange and there is a key hanging from a chain with fluorescent orange (see photo below). Please make sure to secure the padlock when you are finished disposing of your garbage AND be extremely cautious when in the dumpster area.
Owners with tenants, please make sure to share this with all those residing in your unit. Please feel free to contact the office with any questions regarding this safety measure.
NEWSLETTER DATED 6-12-16
Dear Hidden Village Community,
Your Board has been working very hard the past few months to ensure Hidden Village remains a great community. Some weeks individual total board time has exceeded 20 hours. We know not everyone agrees with our decisions, but we do hope the HVOA community appreciates that we are trying to do our very best for Hidden Village.
Following is an update and review.
New Contractors
As most owners are aware, Hammond Property Management [HPM] is our new manager, effective June 15, 2016. After many years of wonderful service and commitment to HV, Kristen Ramirez (RPM) decided to not renew her company’s contract with HV. Since then a priority of your board has been to find the best management company for HV. We are very excited about our new relationship with HPM. Though the management fee has increased, with their combination of state of the art technology, detailed record keeping and experience with many of the current and impending issues facing HV, we hope HPM will serve HV well. We also think they may have the potential to reduce HV expenses in other areas.
We all wish Kristen and her team the very best. Again we want to thank them for their many years of service, and we are looking forward to seeing them around the BS community.
Alpine Reflections, Inc is our new groundskeeping company. Alpine is experienced in Big Sky and came highly recommended. I truly believe the quality of HV groundskeeping affects the market value of our units and we expect Alpine to do quality work.
Roofing
Doug S along with entire rooting committee has been working on the HVOA roofing issue. Doug and Don Lundsten have inspected the fans on all of the roofs and will be making a report to the board which will pass on to HVOA members.
Regarding the roofing issue, we have had heard from a number of HV owners who are concerned the process we have adopted will end up costing the HVOA more in the long run and, frankly, they may be right. Specifically, the concern is HV is going to have to completely replace all the roofs and each year we wait, the cost will go up. It is my understanding that construction costs are currently increasing about 10% annually. This means a $2 million dollar project could cost $2.2 million a year later. At the same time, no one can predict future construction costs. They will be affected by a number of both local and national factors. More importantly, given the variance of information and opinions regarding the roofing issue, this current board felt the best process is a transparent investigation by a (the) roofing committee with recommendations to the board, which HVOA members will ultimately be able to vote on. Ultimately, it is important to accept work will have to be done on the roofs. It will cost money and HVOA fees will increase.
“We are all adults here.”
I have heard this comment more often since getting on this board than in the previous 20 years we have lived here. Most often these are related to the pool and parking issues, but included other areas of HV. In each case, it has meant an owner does not like or wish to comply with a certain HVOA rule or by-law and so wants to ignore the rule because "we are all adults here".
Kim and I have belonged to four different HOA's over the years including HV and all have had rules. Some of the rules we did not like or felt were silly. But we always knew we had three options: comply with the rule, move to have it changed, or simply move. I would suggest that's what “adults do” rather then ignore or complain about a rule they do not like.
Our new property manager will enforce the rules uniformly and fairly. We cannot have a situation where they are expected to pick and choose what rules to follow or not. That's not their job. Finally, owners who violate the rules cost all of us money because the management company has to deal with it. This will be passed on to us as part of their fee structure. The more non-compliance problems we have, the higher our fees will rise.
HVOA Fees
In the future, your board believes HVOA fees will increase. The first reason, as outlined above, is the cost of our impending roofing issue. The second reason will be maintaining a quality campus for our owners and their guests. The third reason is the general increased costs of doing business in Big Sky. Your board has heard from unit owners who are concerned about the potential for increasing fees. We have also heard from a number of unit owners who are concerned the HV campus will be allowed to deteriorate both reducing the quality of life in HV and the market value of individual units. These owners have all said they understand fees may increase in order to maintain the quality of the HV campus. Your board will do its very best to maintain HV in the best financially responsible manner possible and it will remain, in my estimation, the jewel of Big Sky.
Doyle A. Ranstrom, Board Chair
NEWS NEWS NEWS NEWS
The Board of Directors is pleased to announce the new Hidden Village Association Manager will be Hammond Property Management [HPM] which is owned by Scott Hammond. Scott has been managing HOA’s since 1997 and HOA management is the sole focus of his business. Currently they manage over 20 HOA’s including ones that are larger than Hidden Village. Scott has an experienced and professional staff which works as a team. Two staff members will be assigned specifically to Hidden Village.
We had three bidders and interviewed each one. As part of the interview process, we developed a questionnaire containing ten questions which we reviewed and discussed with each bidder. We felt that HPM ranked highest in all the questions except one which was wash with the number two bidder. The wash was related to dealing with violations of HOA regulations such as parking. The top two bidders had experience with owners or renters who were not good neighbors and, after a warning, enforced HOA penalties. The Board stressed violations need to be enforced fairly and consistently and both bidders were in total agreement. We did feel the contact management system which HPM uses enables them to have a real time response to violators.
Specific areas which we believed HPM to be the strongest were as follows:
We also rated HPM very strong intangibles such as knowledge of HVOA along with services offered in Big Sky by various contractors.
Kristen Ramirez and RMC have done a wonderful job of working with and managing HVOA for many years. We thank them for their many years of great service and wish them the best going forward.
The hiring of HPM begins a new era in HVOA and we look forward to working with them.
Doyle Ranstrom, Board Chairperson, and the HVOA Board
The Board of Directors is pleased to announce the new Hidden Village Association Manager will be Hammond Property Management [HPM] which is owned by Scott Hammond. Scott has been managing HOA’s since 1997 and HOA management is the sole focus of his business. Currently they manage over 20 HOA’s including ones that are larger than Hidden Village. Scott has an experienced and professional staff which works as a team. Two staff members will be assigned specifically to Hidden Village.
We had three bidders and interviewed each one. As part of the interview process, we developed a questionnaire containing ten questions which we reviewed and discussed with each bidder. We felt that HPM ranked highest in all the questions except one which was wash with the number two bidder. The wash was related to dealing with violations of HOA regulations such as parking. The top two bidders had experience with owners or renters who were not good neighbors and, after a warning, enforced HOA penalties. The Board stressed violations need to be enforced fairly and consistently and both bidders were in total agreement. We did feel the contact management system which HPM uses enables them to have a real time response to violators.
Specific areas which we believed HPM to be the strongest were as follows:
- First and foremost, simply to manage the needs and affairs of Hidden Village over the course of the year. In many ways, Big Sky is a unique area and the HVOA management company will be dealing with budgets, independent contractors, grounds keeping, painting, road repair, snow removal, roofing issues, pool maintenance, roofing issues, and violators of HVOA by-laws.
- Long term track record and experienced professional staff who all live in Big Sky.
- Assisting HVOA in developing a detailed and transparent budgeting and expense tracking system which not only be beneficial in a given year, but also provide a detailed historical basis for future Boards as they make budgeting decisions.
- The potential to reduce HVOA expenses in various areas. This will not necessarily be immediate, but will be an opportunity over an extended period of time.
- HPM has extensive experience in management of extensive roof replacements projects. We felt this was a very strong advantage.
We also rated HPM very strong intangibles such as knowledge of HVOA along with services offered in Big Sky by various contractors.
Kristen Ramirez and RMC have done a wonderful job of working with and managing HVOA for many years. We thank them for their many years of great service and wish them the best going forward.
The hiring of HPM begins a new era in HVOA and we look forward to working with them.
Doyle Ranstrom, Board Chairperson, and the HVOA Board
We are happy to announce that the Junk Dumpster will be provided again this year. Per owner requests, we are scheduling the delivery of the dumpster on Friday, June 10th around 8:00 am. It will be here approximately one week. The dumpster is for all your household spring clean items. No trash, toxic items, refrigerators, car batteries or flammable items are permitted.
*As always, Household Trash needs to be put in the trash dumpster.Please call Ramirez Management Services at 406 995-4128 with any questions or concerns you might have regarding acceptable items for the junk dumpster
*As always, Household Trash needs to be put in the trash dumpster.Please call Ramirez Management Services at 406 995-4128 with any questions or concerns you might have regarding acceptable items for the junk dumpster
Republic Services is offering curbside recycling pickup in the Big Sky area.
The cost is $29 per month and pick up is every other Saturday beginning May 14th, 2016.
A list of acceptable items is attached for your review. Should you be interested in attaining this service, please contact Republic Services directly at 406-586-0606.
They will deliver your 96 gallon container prior to the first pickup date.
The cost is $29 per month and pick up is every other Saturday beginning May 14th, 2016.
A list of acceptable items is attached for your review. Should you be interested in attaining this service, please contact Republic Services directly at 406-586-0606.
They will deliver your 96 gallon container prior to the first pickup date.
A contract has been let with Dependable Paint and Drywall for the painting of the buildings listed below.
The buildings are the following:
901 & 907 Sunburst Drive
822, 828, 832, 840 Sunburst Drive
100, 106, 112, 118 Rosehip Circle
15, 21, 27, 33 Rosehip Circle
26, 32, 38, 44 Rosehip Circle
The buildings are the following:
901 & 907 Sunburst Drive
822, 828, 832, 840 Sunburst Drive
100, 106, 112, 118 Rosehip Circle
15, 21, 27, 33 Rosehip Circle
26, 32, 38, 44 Rosehip Circle
3. This is a newsletter which was sent to all owners on February 11, 2016
Hello Hidden Village Owners!
Happy New Year! In an effort to provide more timely and accurate information, your Board of Directors is resurrecting our sorely missed association newsletter. The first Board Meeting of the New Year was held on January 19, 2016.
Board Meeting Highlights
The Board accepted the resignation of President Robin Hicks who has resigned for personal reasons. Robin was a dedicated Board Member for many years. We thank her for her service and we will miss her leadership. Doyle Ranstrom who was elected Treasurer at September’s Annual Meeting, volunteered to be President on an interim basis until elections to be held at the next annual meeting. Susie Leach, Board Member- at Large, will assume the position of Treasurer, until the next annual meeting. The Board will appoint a new Member-at-Large to fill that vacancy.
We are so very sad to report, that Kristen Ramirez, our Association Manager for the past 16 years, has decided not to renew her contract which is due to expire in June. It is overwhelming to contemplate the knowledge and experience specific to our complex that Kristen has amassed during her tenure with us.
The Board will be scheduling work sessions as needed to review and revise the Management Contract as well as other association contracts such as painting, lawn care and maintenance. Also, on the agenda for the Board this year– a review of the Association Policies, Rules and Regulations including enforcement. The first work session was held February 4th.
Last year the Board’s main focus was the revision of our Condominium Declarations and By-Laws. Having completed that project and with the approval of the membership at last summer’s annual meeting, the Board is moving forward this year with a full plate of work ahead searching for a new manager, reviewing policies and rules, and gathering information for the impending roof project. We welcome suggestions and comments from the membership. Contact information for the Board is included in this letter.
New Board Member Appointed
On February 4th, Maude Glore volunteered to serve, and fill the vacant position of Member-at-Large of the Board of Directors. The Board has appointed Maud to take that seat, and her appointment will be ratified at the next Board meeting scheduled for March 7th.
Thank you Maude!!
From the Chairman – Doyle Ranstrom
When I joined the HVOA Board of Directors, I broke a promise I made to myself years
ago. After serving on a variety of boards, I said would never do it again. Generally, serving on a Board is thankless job and there are always going to be those who disagree with Board decisions. But I changed my mind and volunteered my services for the HVOA Board for several reasons.
First, this has become my wife, Kim’s and my primary residence. Kim normally lives here more than half the year and though still working, I spend as much time in Big Sky and HV as possible. We also view Hidden Village and Big Sky as a place our family will continue to enjoy for many years.
Second, I have for some time considered HV to be the jewel of Big Sky. It is unique, beautiful and in humble opinion, there is very little else like it. Whenever I return to HV from a business trip, summer or winter, when I drive into the HV complex I start to smile. It is a wonderful community and both Kim and I feel blessed to own a unit in
HV. However, it is very important to know that jewels have to be taken care of, protected and polished and HV is no exception. The current and future market value of each of units is directly related to how well we take care of the HV complex
Third, we have a roofing issue that needs to be addressed and it will cost money. It is my opinion that we should seek a long-term solution, to the best of our abilities, which protects unit owners from future water problems, and is heat efficient. Obviously we need to be cost efficient, but in my estimation, the best form of being cost efficient is a long-term solution. Finally, having been through another roofing project in an HOA to which we belong in AZ, I would suggest that the highest possible cost per unit has already been priced into the market value of each unit, so the sooner we solve this problem, the better it will be for long term market values.
HV is a community and as a community, it has rules and regulations. Years ago, when we moved into townhouse in Fargo, a recently retired gentleman, who had also just moved in, was upset because he thought he still lived in a single family dwelling and believed he could do whatever he wanted to in his mind “his property”. He either forgot or never realized, that the only thing he owned was from the drywall in. The HOA owned all of the rest of the property. The HOA president explained patiently that he lived in a community with community rules and regulations. Every HOA to which I have belonged had rules and regulations governing the Association. I expect the management company to enforce all HOA rules and regulations fairly and impartially. If a unit owner has a concern about a specific rule or regulation, the unit owner should send a letter or email to the management company, site the specific regulations and lists reasons why it should be changed and how the change would benefit the community and not just the unit owner. I would consider this to be a public correspondence and can be forwarded on to all unit owners. If the HOA wants to make a change, they can vote to do so.
As a board member, my primary concern is the Hidden Village complex and the quality of life of all unit owners. The Board needs to listen to questions and concerns of all owners, but the Board’s primary responsibility is to act in a manner which the Board believes is in the best interests of the community, not an individual unit owner. There will be disagreements on this, but I learned a long time ago thoughtful intelligent people can disagree without being disagreeable. Finally, it is also important to remember we are all part of community and overall want the same thing, to continue to have HV as a wonderful place to live and enjoy the best of Big Sky.
From Our Manager – Kristen Ramirez
A condominium development or condominium living is different from traditional home ownership. The ownership in a condominium complex is defined as a share of ownership in common land and access to common facilities such as swimming pools and other facilities that may not have been afforded in a traditional private home. When purchasing in a condominium development, one automatically becomes a member with all other owners. With the ownership comes the responsibility of knowing and abiding by association documents and payment of your dues. When purchasing in a condominium development, you agree to pay “assessments”. Assessments are figured after the members vote in an annual budget. The budget is then divided by the percentage of ownership by the members.
Hidden Village is blessed to have such “condominium living” savvy members. The membership understands “condominium living” and has been fiscally responsible for their dues. Thank you so much for being responsible, forward thinking and committed to making Hidden Village great!
Included at the end of this letter is a list of the HV Association rules for your reference.
From the Roof Committee Chairman- Doug Simpfenderfer
The HVOA Board of Directors has established a Roofing Committee to help find a long- term solution for our roof problems- leaks and ice dams.
The committee is not a decision-making organization. We are currently gathering information, and will present our findings to your HVOA Board of Directors.
Members of this committee are working hard to explore different options and are meeting with roofing contractors and other association managers in our area to find out how they resolved similar roof problems.
This is a process that cannot be rushed, and may take some time as we need to get this right. I am very happy with the committee members that your Board has appointed. I have found that they are willing to work hard and are independent thinkers. They are an awesome group of dedicated owners, and I am honored to be working with them.
WELCOME NEW OWNERS! 61 Woodbine Pl (#58)
Kevin & Jennifer Chartier,
63 Rose Hip Cr (#103)
Gary & Jill Riffe, Allan, Carol, Todd & Jill Metzger
21 Rose Hip Cr (#111)
Glenn Craig Sweeting
44 Rose Hip Cr (#113)
Joel & Deborah Fertakis
910 Sunburst (#119)
Jake Nelson & Betsey Rondeau
FRIENDLY REMINDERS
It’s time to take down the Christmas lights. We all enjoyed them during the holidays and look forward to seeing them next season.
Thank you so much.
El Nino has blessed us with ample snowfall to start the new year.
Roof shoveling has begun. Please contact the HVOA office immediately if you detect any leakage in your unit so that it may be immediately addressed avoiding any interior damage. As February approaches, temperatures will be rising and more opportunities for leakage. If you are an absentee owner, it is most important that you have a property manager or a neighbor checking your condo regularly.
We are always reminding everyone to slow down when driving through HV, but wintery conditions give us more reasons.
The huge piles of snow that are building up from the plows have made our roads more narrow and hamper our visibility to see around curves. Currently, they are snow packed and icy.
SLOW DOWN AND DRIVE WITH EXTRA CAUTION.
The most frequent request at all meetings –
CLEAN UP AFTER YOUR DOG. There is no other way to say it, and there is no excuse not to do it.
The Town Center is no longer providing recycling service for Big Sky. Thanks to all residents who are hauling cardboard, paper and plastic to Bozeman. Target is no longer taking glass. That being said, we are expecting an increase in our garbage disposal cost. The compactor will fill up more frequently. PLEASE BREAK DOWN BOXES, AND TURN ON THE COMPACTOR AFTER YOU LOAD GARBAGE. Instructions are provided on site.
The meeting room at the Rec Building is available to hold meetings, parties, etc. at a rental fee of $50 with a damage waiver of $200.
BIG SKY NEWS
October 2015- After 30+ years as Big Sky’s weekly newspaper, The Lone Peak Lookout announced termination of publication.
December 8 -ACE Hardware opened it’s brand new store on Lone Mountain Trail.
December 12 – Big Sky Medical Center hosted its grand opening and has reported over 300 emergency room treatments during the first month of operation.
January 8 - Explore Big Sky reports “Big Sky building boom: a look at the community’s feverish growth”. Details at explorebigsky.com.
Big Sky has never been busier with traffic, construction, and special events. The following list of websites will provide current information and future calendars of events.
Bigskychamber.com Bigskytowncenter.com Bigskyarts.org Warrenmillerpac.org Explorebigsky.com Bigskyresort.com
Mark Your Calendar
February 24, 5pm Roof Committee Meeting
March 7, 4pm Board of Directors’ Meeting* September 1, HVOA Annual Meeting (time TBA)
*New Format for Board Meetings- A reminder with an agenda will be emailed to all owners prior to the meeting. There will be a 10 minute discussion period about agenda items before the meeting is called to order. After the meeting is adjourned, the floor will be open for general discussion of all other issues.
All meetings are held at the HV Rec Building.
Coming Soon!
The Board has obtained a domain name and will be setting up a web page!
Important Contact Information
Emergencies – dial 911
Hidden Village Issues- call Ramirez Management, 995-2678, Kristen Ramirez, Manager, or email [email protected].
HV Board of Directors welcomes your comments and suggestions
Doyle Ranstrom, Chairman [email protected]
Mary Grundman, Secretary [email protected]
Brian Scott, Member-at-Large bscott@lonepinebuilders
Maude Glore, Member-at-Large [email protected]
Susie Leach, Treasurer [email protected]
Doug Simpfenderfer, Roof Committee Chairman, [email protected]
BIG SKY HIDDEN VILLAGE CONDOMINIUM ASSOCIATION COMMON ELEMENT RULES
EMERGENCY PHONE NUMBER 911 HVOA OFFICE PHONE (406) 995-2678
The following rules are distributed by the Hidden Village Owners Association in accordance with the Condominium Declaration and as an information service to owners and guests. Please enjoy your stay in Hidden Village, and facilitate others’ enjoyment by the observation of the following common element rules. Thank you for your cooperation.
FIRE SAFETY
Because of potential fire hazards, the Association prohibits fireworks, outdoor fires and propane heaters along with the operation of charcoal grills on wood decks or beneath building eaves. Please do not leave operating fireplaces unattended or place fireplace ashes in nonmetallic containers. Be safety conscious; locate the fire extinguishers and identify emergency exits before they are needed.
VEHICLES AND PARKING
All vehicles must be parked in a garage, driveway or paved parking site. Parking or driving on lawns or grounds is prohibited. Trailers, campers, motor homes, popups, etc., may only be parked within a closed garage within Hidden Village. Long term “storage” parking of any vehicles may only be within a closed garage. Off-site parking for long term or oversized vehicles is available within the Big Sky area. Our streets are narrow and steep and must be kept clear to allow emergency and snowplowing access. The Association will attempt to notify violators when possible prior to towing improperly parked vehicles. Towing shall be at the expense of the vehicle owner.
TRAFFIC AND RULES
Please observe all traffic signs and the 20 mph speed limit within the complex. The operation of snowmobiles, ATVs or other motorized vehicles not licensed for public roads is prohibited within Hidden Village. Please watch for pedestrians as our roadways are our walkways.
PET CONTROL
All dogs or other pets must be on leash or under direct owner control whenever outside a unit. Pets may not be chained or housed on common elements. Please walk your pets in undeveloped areas only; clean up and properly dispose of any accidents on lawns, drives or other developed areas. Not everyone loves your pet like you do.
NOISE CONTROL
Loud noises are prohibited within the complex between 10 p.m. and 8 a.m. Your neighbor may need his rest.
GARBAGE AND TRASH
Please place all garbage and trash in provided containers at designated site. Please break down boxes and bag all garbage before disposal. Appliances, furniture, construction materials, etc., may not be disposed of in the Association compactor. Instructions available at the site.
STORAGE ON GROUNDS
Any storage on the common elements or grounds without prior written consent of the Association is prohibited, and is subject to removal without notice at the owner’s expense. This includes but not limited to firewood, bikes, boats, seasonal recreation gear.
DECLARATION
The Condominium’s Declaration restricts certain uses and alteration or modification to the common elements, which includes grounds, buildings and recreational facilities. Please refer to the Declaration or contact the Manager or any member of the Board if you need additional information concerning restrictions or provisions of the Declaration.
Hello Hidden Village Owners!
Happy New Year! In an effort to provide more timely and accurate information, your Board of Directors is resurrecting our sorely missed association newsletter. The first Board Meeting of the New Year was held on January 19, 2016.
Board Meeting Highlights
The Board accepted the resignation of President Robin Hicks who has resigned for personal reasons. Robin was a dedicated Board Member for many years. We thank her for her service and we will miss her leadership. Doyle Ranstrom who was elected Treasurer at September’s Annual Meeting, volunteered to be President on an interim basis until elections to be held at the next annual meeting. Susie Leach, Board Member- at Large, will assume the position of Treasurer, until the next annual meeting. The Board will appoint a new Member-at-Large to fill that vacancy.
We are so very sad to report, that Kristen Ramirez, our Association Manager for the past 16 years, has decided not to renew her contract which is due to expire in June. It is overwhelming to contemplate the knowledge and experience specific to our complex that Kristen has amassed during her tenure with us.
The Board will be scheduling work sessions as needed to review and revise the Management Contract as well as other association contracts such as painting, lawn care and maintenance. Also, on the agenda for the Board this year– a review of the Association Policies, Rules and Regulations including enforcement. The first work session was held February 4th.
Last year the Board’s main focus was the revision of our Condominium Declarations and By-Laws. Having completed that project and with the approval of the membership at last summer’s annual meeting, the Board is moving forward this year with a full plate of work ahead searching for a new manager, reviewing policies and rules, and gathering information for the impending roof project. We welcome suggestions and comments from the membership. Contact information for the Board is included in this letter.
New Board Member Appointed
On February 4th, Maude Glore volunteered to serve, and fill the vacant position of Member-at-Large of the Board of Directors. The Board has appointed Maud to take that seat, and her appointment will be ratified at the next Board meeting scheduled for March 7th.
Thank you Maude!!
From the Chairman – Doyle Ranstrom
When I joined the HVOA Board of Directors, I broke a promise I made to myself years
ago. After serving on a variety of boards, I said would never do it again. Generally, serving on a Board is thankless job and there are always going to be those who disagree with Board decisions. But I changed my mind and volunteered my services for the HVOA Board for several reasons.
First, this has become my wife, Kim’s and my primary residence. Kim normally lives here more than half the year and though still working, I spend as much time in Big Sky and HV as possible. We also view Hidden Village and Big Sky as a place our family will continue to enjoy for many years.
Second, I have for some time considered HV to be the jewel of Big Sky. It is unique, beautiful and in humble opinion, there is very little else like it. Whenever I return to HV from a business trip, summer or winter, when I drive into the HV complex I start to smile. It is a wonderful community and both Kim and I feel blessed to own a unit in
HV. However, it is very important to know that jewels have to be taken care of, protected and polished and HV is no exception. The current and future market value of each of units is directly related to how well we take care of the HV complex
Third, we have a roofing issue that needs to be addressed and it will cost money. It is my opinion that we should seek a long-term solution, to the best of our abilities, which protects unit owners from future water problems, and is heat efficient. Obviously we need to be cost efficient, but in my estimation, the best form of being cost efficient is a long-term solution. Finally, having been through another roofing project in an HOA to which we belong in AZ, I would suggest that the highest possible cost per unit has already been priced into the market value of each unit, so the sooner we solve this problem, the better it will be for long term market values.
HV is a community and as a community, it has rules and regulations. Years ago, when we moved into townhouse in Fargo, a recently retired gentleman, who had also just moved in, was upset because he thought he still lived in a single family dwelling and believed he could do whatever he wanted to in his mind “his property”. He either forgot or never realized, that the only thing he owned was from the drywall in. The HOA owned all of the rest of the property. The HOA president explained patiently that he lived in a community with community rules and regulations. Every HOA to which I have belonged had rules and regulations governing the Association. I expect the management company to enforce all HOA rules and regulations fairly and impartially. If a unit owner has a concern about a specific rule or regulation, the unit owner should send a letter or email to the management company, site the specific regulations and lists reasons why it should be changed and how the change would benefit the community and not just the unit owner. I would consider this to be a public correspondence and can be forwarded on to all unit owners. If the HOA wants to make a change, they can vote to do so.
As a board member, my primary concern is the Hidden Village complex and the quality of life of all unit owners. The Board needs to listen to questions and concerns of all owners, but the Board’s primary responsibility is to act in a manner which the Board believes is in the best interests of the community, not an individual unit owner. There will be disagreements on this, but I learned a long time ago thoughtful intelligent people can disagree without being disagreeable. Finally, it is also important to remember we are all part of community and overall want the same thing, to continue to have HV as a wonderful place to live and enjoy the best of Big Sky.
From Our Manager – Kristen Ramirez
A condominium development or condominium living is different from traditional home ownership. The ownership in a condominium complex is defined as a share of ownership in common land and access to common facilities such as swimming pools and other facilities that may not have been afforded in a traditional private home. When purchasing in a condominium development, one automatically becomes a member with all other owners. With the ownership comes the responsibility of knowing and abiding by association documents and payment of your dues. When purchasing in a condominium development, you agree to pay “assessments”. Assessments are figured after the members vote in an annual budget. The budget is then divided by the percentage of ownership by the members.
Hidden Village is blessed to have such “condominium living” savvy members. The membership understands “condominium living” and has been fiscally responsible for their dues. Thank you so much for being responsible, forward thinking and committed to making Hidden Village great!
Included at the end of this letter is a list of the HV Association rules for your reference.
From the Roof Committee Chairman- Doug Simpfenderfer
The HVOA Board of Directors has established a Roofing Committee to help find a long- term solution for our roof problems- leaks and ice dams.
The committee is not a decision-making organization. We are currently gathering information, and will present our findings to your HVOA Board of Directors.
Members of this committee are working hard to explore different options and are meeting with roofing contractors and other association managers in our area to find out how they resolved similar roof problems.
This is a process that cannot be rushed, and may take some time as we need to get this right. I am very happy with the committee members that your Board has appointed. I have found that they are willing to work hard and are independent thinkers. They are an awesome group of dedicated owners, and I am honored to be working with them.
WELCOME NEW OWNERS! 61 Woodbine Pl (#58)
Kevin & Jennifer Chartier,
63 Rose Hip Cr (#103)
Gary & Jill Riffe, Allan, Carol, Todd & Jill Metzger
21 Rose Hip Cr (#111)
Glenn Craig Sweeting
44 Rose Hip Cr (#113)
Joel & Deborah Fertakis
910 Sunburst (#119)
Jake Nelson & Betsey Rondeau
FRIENDLY REMINDERS
It’s time to take down the Christmas lights. We all enjoyed them during the holidays and look forward to seeing them next season.
Thank you so much.
El Nino has blessed us with ample snowfall to start the new year.
Roof shoveling has begun. Please contact the HVOA office immediately if you detect any leakage in your unit so that it may be immediately addressed avoiding any interior damage. As February approaches, temperatures will be rising and more opportunities for leakage. If you are an absentee owner, it is most important that you have a property manager or a neighbor checking your condo regularly.
We are always reminding everyone to slow down when driving through HV, but wintery conditions give us more reasons.
The huge piles of snow that are building up from the plows have made our roads more narrow and hamper our visibility to see around curves. Currently, they are snow packed and icy.
SLOW DOWN AND DRIVE WITH EXTRA CAUTION.
The most frequent request at all meetings –
CLEAN UP AFTER YOUR DOG. There is no other way to say it, and there is no excuse not to do it.
The Town Center is no longer providing recycling service for Big Sky. Thanks to all residents who are hauling cardboard, paper and plastic to Bozeman. Target is no longer taking glass. That being said, we are expecting an increase in our garbage disposal cost. The compactor will fill up more frequently. PLEASE BREAK DOWN BOXES, AND TURN ON THE COMPACTOR AFTER YOU LOAD GARBAGE. Instructions are provided on site.
The meeting room at the Rec Building is available to hold meetings, parties, etc. at a rental fee of $50 with a damage waiver of $200.
BIG SKY NEWS
October 2015- After 30+ years as Big Sky’s weekly newspaper, The Lone Peak Lookout announced termination of publication.
December 8 -ACE Hardware opened it’s brand new store on Lone Mountain Trail.
December 12 – Big Sky Medical Center hosted its grand opening and has reported over 300 emergency room treatments during the first month of operation.
January 8 - Explore Big Sky reports “Big Sky building boom: a look at the community’s feverish growth”. Details at explorebigsky.com.
Big Sky has never been busier with traffic, construction, and special events. The following list of websites will provide current information and future calendars of events.
Bigskychamber.com Bigskytowncenter.com Bigskyarts.org Warrenmillerpac.org Explorebigsky.com Bigskyresort.com
Mark Your Calendar
February 24, 5pm Roof Committee Meeting
March 7, 4pm Board of Directors’ Meeting* September 1, HVOA Annual Meeting (time TBA)
*New Format for Board Meetings- A reminder with an agenda will be emailed to all owners prior to the meeting. There will be a 10 minute discussion period about agenda items before the meeting is called to order. After the meeting is adjourned, the floor will be open for general discussion of all other issues.
All meetings are held at the HV Rec Building.
Coming Soon!
The Board has obtained a domain name and will be setting up a web page!
Important Contact Information
Emergencies – dial 911
Hidden Village Issues- call Ramirez Management, 995-2678, Kristen Ramirez, Manager, or email [email protected].
HV Board of Directors welcomes your comments and suggestions
Doyle Ranstrom, Chairman [email protected]
Mary Grundman, Secretary [email protected]
Brian Scott, Member-at-Large bscott@lonepinebuilders
Maude Glore, Member-at-Large [email protected]
Susie Leach, Treasurer [email protected]
Doug Simpfenderfer, Roof Committee Chairman, [email protected]
BIG SKY HIDDEN VILLAGE CONDOMINIUM ASSOCIATION COMMON ELEMENT RULES
EMERGENCY PHONE NUMBER 911 HVOA OFFICE PHONE (406) 995-2678
The following rules are distributed by the Hidden Village Owners Association in accordance with the Condominium Declaration and as an information service to owners and guests. Please enjoy your stay in Hidden Village, and facilitate others’ enjoyment by the observation of the following common element rules. Thank you for your cooperation.
FIRE SAFETY
Because of potential fire hazards, the Association prohibits fireworks, outdoor fires and propane heaters along with the operation of charcoal grills on wood decks or beneath building eaves. Please do not leave operating fireplaces unattended or place fireplace ashes in nonmetallic containers. Be safety conscious; locate the fire extinguishers and identify emergency exits before they are needed.
VEHICLES AND PARKING
All vehicles must be parked in a garage, driveway or paved parking site. Parking or driving on lawns or grounds is prohibited. Trailers, campers, motor homes, popups, etc., may only be parked within a closed garage within Hidden Village. Long term “storage” parking of any vehicles may only be within a closed garage. Off-site parking for long term or oversized vehicles is available within the Big Sky area. Our streets are narrow and steep and must be kept clear to allow emergency and snowplowing access. The Association will attempt to notify violators when possible prior to towing improperly parked vehicles. Towing shall be at the expense of the vehicle owner.
TRAFFIC AND RULES
Please observe all traffic signs and the 20 mph speed limit within the complex. The operation of snowmobiles, ATVs or other motorized vehicles not licensed for public roads is prohibited within Hidden Village. Please watch for pedestrians as our roadways are our walkways.
PET CONTROL
All dogs or other pets must be on leash or under direct owner control whenever outside a unit. Pets may not be chained or housed on common elements. Please walk your pets in undeveloped areas only; clean up and properly dispose of any accidents on lawns, drives or other developed areas. Not everyone loves your pet like you do.
NOISE CONTROL
Loud noises are prohibited within the complex between 10 p.m. and 8 a.m. Your neighbor may need his rest.
GARBAGE AND TRASH
Please place all garbage and trash in provided containers at designated site. Please break down boxes and bag all garbage before disposal. Appliances, furniture, construction materials, etc., may not be disposed of in the Association compactor. Instructions available at the site.
STORAGE ON GROUNDS
Any storage on the common elements or grounds without prior written consent of the Association is prohibited, and is subject to removal without notice at the owner’s expense. This includes but not limited to firewood, bikes, boats, seasonal recreation gear.
DECLARATION
The Condominium’s Declaration restricts certain uses and alteration or modification to the common elements, which includes grounds, buildings and recreational facilities. Please refer to the Declaration or contact the Manager or any member of the Board if you need additional information concerning restrictions or provisions of the Declaration.