Masters Drainage Update

Masters Residents

The Masters President, Dikran Ohannessian, attended a River Ridge meeting after our Masters Board meeting on Tuesday, January 24, 2023, specifically to represent the Masters Community on Drainage issues impacting the Masters residents from golf course Lakes five through eight holes on outer edge.

The following is a summary report submitted by Dikran to the Masters Board members, a Map from RRCDD and part of the engineer’s report issued at the RRCDD Board meeting from their website.

The initial comments are Dikran’s followed by supporting documentation from River Ridge; Our Board objective is to keep residents informed on current issues.

Don Jancin
Masters Board Secretary

Drainage in the Masters

January 2023

The River Ridge CDD Board will consider the engineer’s plans to address the water problem in the Masters. This is expected to be approved; however, implementation will only occur when funds are available which could take some time. In the meantime, they will see if some remaining funds from completed projects could be directed to start addressing the problem.

The project involves locating drainage structures originally planned but have long been covered, making sure once located,the drainage holes are functional and then connecting pipes to the drainage hole for stagnant to flow into.

The current drainage network:

  • ·Black Circles with a black dot centre are CDD drainage structures.
  • Black lines are CDD drainage pipes.
  • Orange Circles with an orange centre dot are CDD drainage structures (locations for most are currently unknown and whether these are functional)

Engineer’s report (extracts) provided by Engineer to River Ridge Board

it stated that there are several areas that are experiencing standing water after heavy rains. These include areas around the Master neighborhood, the area behind Seaside and the dry detention area north of Pelican Sound Blvd. To help address the standing water we are providing some conceptual improvements and estimated costs for budget purposes only.

Masters‐Southeast Corner

There are several locations within and around the Masters neighborhood where standing water has becoming more prevalent. The first area is located in the southeast corner of the neighborhood, adjacent to an indigenous vegetation area. Since the area is an indigenous vegetation area, the grading has remained as close to the natural ground as possible. In the southeast corner there is an existing inlet and rip rap swale that collects the some of the water and directs it to the golf course drainage or to the near by lake. As the inlet does not show up on any plans the exact path is unknown and will need to be investigated.

In addition, modifications would include;

  • Installation of 3 PVC yard drains
  • Installation of ±400 LF 15” ADS drain line
  • Connections to existing inlet (2)
  • Installation of ±4,000 s.f. Bermuda sod
  • Estimated cost=$30,000.00

Masters‐Northwest Corner

The residents of the first 6 lots of the Masters have expressed concerns of standing water between their lots and the adjacent golf course. The original drainage plans showed yard drains to be installed behind these lots. After reviewing the behind the lots no inlets could be seen. Inspection reports from MRI do not show inlets or drainpipes behind the homes. To address the standing water it is proposed to install the yard drains based on the original drainage plans.

The proposed drainage modifications include;

  • Installation of 2 PVC yard drains
  • Installation of ±200 LF 15” ADS drain line
  • Connections to existing inlet (2)
  • Installation of ±2,000 s.f. Bermuda sod
  •  Estimated cost=$24,000.00

Masters‐West Side

The residents on the west side of the Maters have expressed concerns of standing water between their lots and the adjacent golf course. The original drainage plans showed yard drains to be installed behind these lots. After reviewing the behind the lots no inlets could be seen. Inspection reports from MRI do not show inlets or drainpipes behind the homes. To address the standing water, it is proposed to install the yard drains based on the original drainage plans.

The proposed drainage modifications include;

  • Installation of 2 PVC yard drains
  • Installation of ±380 15” ADS drain line
  • Connections to existing inlet (2)
  • Installation of ±3,800 s.f. Bermuda sod
  • Estimated cost=$31,000.00

Masters‐North Side

The residents on the north side of the Maters have expressed concerns of standing water between their lots and the adjacent golf course. To address the standing water, it is proposed to follow the example of other areas around the Masters and installed PVC yard drains and 15 inch ADS pipes to move the standing water to the existing drainage system.

The proposed drainage modifications include;

  • Installation of 6 PVC yard drains
  • Installation of ±690 LF 15” ADS drain line
  • Connections to existing inlet (2)
  • Installation of ±6,900 s.f. Bermuda sod
  • Estimated cost=$42,000.00

Masters‐East Side

The residents on the east side of the Maters have expressed concerns of standing water between their lots and the adjacent golf course. To address the standing water, it is proposed to follow the example of other areas around the Masters and installed PVC yard drains and 15 inch ADS pipes to move the standing water to the existing drainage system.

The proposed drainage modifications include;

  • Installation of 4 PVC yard drains
  • Installation of ±530 LF 15” ADS drain line
  • Connections to existing inlet (4)
  • Installation of ±5,400 s.f. Bermuda sod
  • Estimated cost=$43,000.00

The estimated cost to perform the drainage improvements to the Masters neighborhood is $170,000.00.

Hurricane Ian Loss Assessment

Depending on the terms of your home owners insurance policy you may be able to make a claim for the Masters Home Owners Association Assessment due to Hurricane Ian. Some policies wave the deductible requirement for this type of claim. Some policies allow you to submit only one claim, so you may have wait until you get the Pelican Sound Assessment to make a claim. Please consult your policy or agent for the factors that pertain to your situation. To make the claim for the Masters Assessment you may need one or both of the following two documents.

content of email sent 09/04/2023

Secretary’s Notes- January 24, 2023

MASTERS NVR VOTING (BY LAWS 3.12 & 3.13)

The current language was wordy- The Board streamlined language consistent with the Masters objectives and consistent with Pelican Sound Documents.

In additions the Board added language defining a majority polling vote consisting of 51members voting on issues to be a community opinion for the NVR to vote. It was noted residents have an obligation to vote on important issues a lacking a 51 % response the Board would advise the NVR on preferred vote for the community.

The proposed changes will be submitted to residents for comment before final Board approval

MASTERS BOARD ELECTION – Request for candidates

It was noted that we will have two open positions on our Board as of the March 15, 2023 annual meeting. Dikran Ohannessian and Don Jancin are term limited and leaving the Board.

All residents are reminded and encouraged to considering volunteering for our community Board. A letter of intent must be filed with Collier Financial by 5:00 P.M. on February 3, 2023

HURRICANE IAN – LOSS ASSESSMENT

The Secretary will issue and post on the Web site a required letter covering assessment to be used with resident’s insurance company. If your insurance company requires more detail – Collier Financial and / or Cambridge can assist.

It was noted that Pelican Sound Board and the Masters Board advised all homeowners to check their policies or with their agent on loss assessment coverage provided in their policy. Policies differ on coverage provided, deductibles, if any.

MAINTENANCE ISSUE- RESIDENT RESPONSIBILITY

Homeowner asked what is my responsibility when having my pool refinished on disposal of current pool water. We asked PS Administration to check with LEE County to ensure our response was correct. The response received per PSGRC Administrative Office:

“Lee County Utilities called me back this morning and said you are free to drain the pool into your yard, but NOT into the street or sewer.  This may cause damage to your grass so I would check with your pool vendor regarding that issue. We should not be discharging directly into any lakes”

REPLACEMENT OF HURRICANE DOWNED CANOPY TREES

 A conference Call was held by the Masters ARC Chair with Eric Long, PS, General Manager, Skeeter Siefert , PS ARC Chair, Denise William, PS Administrative Assistant.

Discussion included review of Lee County Rules, Village of Estero Rules and PS Documents on street trees. It was concluded that Street trees must be replaced and Pelican Sound Management will enforce existing rules and regulations.

Pelican Sound – Declaration

  • Paragraph 5.2 states that “Trees within a neighborhood Association that are on an easement will be maintained by the Neighborhood Association including trimming, fertilization, and replacement … If said trees are damaged as a direct result of a storm, the Neighborhood Association shall be responsible for replanting or replacing.

To ensure compliance The Masters replaced down or damaged trees

MASTERS ROOFS

The Masters Community now stands at 87 replaced or in process of being replaced with 13 original roofs remaining.

NEW WELCOME COMMITTEE – PERMANENT BOARD COMMITTEE

The Board established a new committee to welcome new neighbours in the Masters;

Committee to be comprised of chairperson and two others who would meet / greet new neighbours.

The President requested we need volunteers for this committee and anyone interested should contact him.

COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES

The Board approved the funding of community activities by the Association;

They included Holiday Decorations, Flags, New Member badges.  Social Functions were excluded to be run independent from Board responsibility and should be self funding. Donations were excluded by State Statute and must be done independently by residents.

CAMBRIDGE PROPERTY MANAGEMENT – Use of existing vendor technology

The Board and vendor in reviewing improved resident service / communication discussed that emails to Cambridge was a preferred resident communication. Cambridge software tracks written communication from point of receipt to completion. The Board and Cambridge will prepare updated instructions for our Web Site and to our Residents.

Donald J Jancin

Masters Secretary

THIS IS NOT OFFICIAL MINUTES OF THE BOARD MEETING

Masters January Social + Bocce Opening: January 13, 2023

Come one, come all, to enjoy our January Social and the opening of the 2023 Bocce season.

Here’s how the event will unfold:

3pm to 5pm – Opening bocce matches at the bocce courts. All are welcome to come and cheer the teams on.

5pm to 8pm – Immediately following is our January Social on the Racquet Center lanai

Registration for this event is closed

To check who has registered: Click Here

Wally’s deli will deliver a range of sandwiches, salads, chips, and cookies. Bartenders will be ready to create your favorite beverages to be charged to your PS member account.

Cost per person: $15

Deadline to register: January 6th

Payment: Please drop off your check (payable to Michele Towey) or cash (in an envelope with your name) at 21948 Masters Circle. A box will be by the front door.

Kindly note: the January 6th deadline is important for the correct amount of food to be ordered and paid for in advance.

The more the merrier to usher in the new year with a January Social and Bocce opening. Gather for a fun event with your neighbors.

All community members, house guests and renters are invited to join our event. Masters residents – Please remember to wear your name badge.

Questions? Please contact me at: Michele.Towey@gmail.com

Michele Towey – Event Coordinator

Stop! Re: Masters Circle Downed Stop Sign

There have been reports of a number of vehicles not coming to a stop where Masters Circle intersects with itself.

The Stop sign is down but drivers still need to come to a complete stop, especially as the house on the corner has a large stack of  construction materials that impairs sitelines. 

Please remind your visitors to be aware of the situation; a temporary sign will be in place as soon as possible.

Trees

Tree Trimming and Removal of Dead Branches From Trees on Your Property

If an owner has dead branches on the trees on their property (other than the Canopy trees), it is the homeowner’s responsibility to hire a contractor to clear these branches.

If you wish to take advantage of Greenscapes (with its subcontractor, Johnson Tree Services), working in the community to have your trees cleared of dead branches or additional tree maintenance, please contact Jami at Greenscapes ASAP. This work is NOT covered by the Masters Association.

The Masters Neighborhood Association does not endorse businesses, however, here are some contractors that have received good reviews on the work they have completed.

  • Greenscapes of Southwest FL Office:  239-643-4471 Jamie McGarvey, Landscape Manager
  • Johnson Tree Service:  239-947-4720
  • TLS Lawn & Tree Service:  239-851-1353

Regarding tree trimming, all work is to be performed in accordance with the American National Standards Institute (ANSI A-300and Z133.1 standards) and associated Best Management Practices for Tree Pruning. Please note that trees may not be trimmed merely to improve views.

Replacement of Trees

Various rules and regulations regarding trees must be considered:

General Trees

  • The Lee County Land Development Code requires one General Tree per 3000 square feet of development area.
  • 75% of the General Trees must be native trees, and no more than 25% can be palms.

Trees along the road

  • The Lee County Land Development code requires five trees per 100 linear feet along the street.
  • 75% of such trees must be native trees. 50% can be palm, however they need to be clustered, NOT lined up with equal distance between them.
  • Three palms equal one canopy tree.

Pelican Sound – Declaration

  • Paragraph 5.2 states that “Trees within a neighborhood Association that are on an easement will be maintained by the Neighborhood Association including trimming, fertilization, and replacement … If said trees are damaged as a direct result of a storm, the Neighborhood Association shall be responsible for replanting or replacing.

To ensure compliance, hurricane downed Canopy trees will be replaced.

ARC Application for Planting, Removal, or Replacement of a Tree

The ARC application process:

  1. Submit Exhibit C – ARC Tree/Palm Removal and Replacement Application.
  2. When removal is approved, a replacement tree/palm may be required. If so, it will be noted in the approved application. In the event a replacement tree is required, complete the tree replacement fields.
  3. As we are single family lots, a Village of Estero “Vegetation Removal Permit,” is not required. However, every lot is required to maintain two native trees in compliance with Lee County Land Development Code. Canopy trees on a resident’s property count as native trees.

In the event of a storm or natural disaster, a tree or palm is downed or sustains significant damage that creates a hazard to buildings or safety to people, an approved ARC tree Removal and Replacement Application is waived.

If you have any questions/comments or concerns, please feel free to contact the Masters ARC Chairperson or Pelican Sound Golf and River Club’s Executive Assistant.

Masters Call for Volunteers

The events and activities for our neighborhood are run by a network of many of the same volunteers. Year after year, they step-up to serve our community and certainly deserve our gratitude and appreciation.

So, as we call for volunteers, we’re also calling for new volunteers to become involved in our community. The work involved isn’t onerous and is very rewarding.

We currently have the following roles open:

Social Committee Chair:

  • Masters’ social functions includes several events, each led by an event organizer. The Chair assists and oversees the advance planning with the event organizers.
  • Book dates with PS venue and food & beverage manager (and caterer if off-site vendor), golf club manager or racquet club manager.
  • Advise Communication Committee Chair of event, create content for blast email and website posting, advise of dates for posting and follow-ups.
  • Recruit new event organizers, when required.

Finance Coordinator:

  • Volunteers at times will need small amount of funds to cover upfront costs or replenish stock. The Finance Coordinator will assist event & activity organizers raise funds through community donations and handle the funds.
  • Social Events, Christmas Decorations, Flags, Community Donations cannot be handled by the Association per legal documents.

Communication Committee Chair: (formerly website committee)

  • Review and update website content and format to keep current.
  • Review and edit blast emails and website content received from events and activities organizers, Board members, plus any ad hoc communications.
  • Training and support are provided.

Please give some thought to volunteering. If interested please contact the neighborhood association president: nvr@masters33928.org

P.S. – As we are heading into the new year, there will be two Board positions coming available in March. Please give some thought to volunteering for the Board as well.

Secretary’s Notes – November 15, 2022

* Resident Loss Assessment – Hurricane Ian

The Board, in addressing a needed hurricane assessment to cover unplanned expenditures, took the following actions:

  • Approved advancing funds from existing reserves, consistent with 6.4 in our bylaws. The regulations require return of the money within one year.
  • Approved a loss assessment, payable in in the first quarter of 2023. If a member prefers, payment may be made in quarterly assessments during 2023, or in one installment if needed for insurance reasons. Invoices for first quarter go out following the December 9, 2022, Board meeting.
  • Approved a loss assessment which included emergency road clearing charges. After the Board meeting, these charges were excluded reducing the loss Hurricane clean-up costs to $40,870 and the loss assessment to $408 or $102 quarterly.

* Loss Assessment – Insurance policy coverage

Residents should consider reviewing their insurance policy coverage for loss assessment as it may be claimed and the conditions for claim submission. Policies may:

  • cover loss assessments independent of policy hurricane coverage.
  • have a cap on allowed assessment.
  • allow only one assessment per event – PSGRC will most likely have an assessment.
  • define allowable expenses in assessment – i.e. must be physical property versus cleanup.

Cambridge Property Management will prepare appropriate documentation for residents to submit to their insurance company.

* Tree Damage on Residents’ Side or Rear of Property

A number of trees have dead or broken branches which removal is the responsibility of the resident. It was noted that Greenscapes will be trimming Sable Palms early to mid-December and if residents choose, they may request a quote from Greenscapes for the removal of dead or broken branches to be performed at the time sable palms are cut. This might be the most economical means as Greenscapes will already be in every back yard.

Residents can email Jami for a quote at: jmsgarvey@greenscapesfl.com They should make sure they include that the work is to be done at time of sable palm cutting.

* Streetlights

Several streetlights are out and replacement light bulbs have been requested.

* Street tree canopy

Residents raised the question of whether we want to replace damaged trees within the “canopy area” of street. The President pointed out we had a study done several years ago with interest in keeping the trees. Several residents present thought we should revisit the topic in light of potential Hurricane tree damages. The ARC Chair was asked to review existing rules and village laws and then survey residents. In the interim, the Board will hold up replacing damaged trees from Hurricane Ian.

* Community Volunteers Needed

The President noted while having 30 or more volunteers in our community (greatly appreciated) we still have a need for additional help. We need volunteers for:

  • Social Coordinator – Replacing Don Jancin after 10+ years. Limited to social events 
  • Communication Committee Chair (formerly Website Committee) – June Roberts is stepping down after 4+ years in the role. We need a volunteer to support communication needs on our website
  • Financial Coordinator – support obtaining community funds that cannot be processed through our Masters Board. Previously done by the Social Chair.

A call for volunteers will be circulated to the community seeking volunteers.

* Drainage Problem – Lakes Golf Holes 5-8 Around Perimeter of Masters Homes

We are following activity of RRCCD that is responsible for and addressing the continuous flooding during heavy rains. They have a preliminary study that will be discussed at their December 13, 2022, meeting which will outline options and costs. We will continue to keep residents appraised of situation until resolution has been achieved.

* Vendor Review

The Board discussed specific vendor concerns. The President and a member of the Board would meet with our vendors to discuss our concerns on current service level issues.
Residents commented if vendor meetings were not successful, The Board should consider issuing RFQ’s for specific service before signing a new contract. The Board acknowledged the comments and will deal with issues as appropriate.

Donald J Jancin – Masters Board Secretary

THESE ARE NOT OFFICIAL MINUTES