HOLA Policy and Procedure Updates

Preamble: The policy below as with all HOLA policies and procedures has been put in place by HOLA members elected to the board of directors. The board’s charge by Article II, Sections 1 &  2 of our bylaws is as follows: ARTICLE II Section 1: the purpose of HOLA shall be to formulate policies and procedures in order to maximize the usefulness and value of all properties located within the geographic areas as outlined in Article II. Section 2: To fulfill this purpose, HOLA, through its officers and committees, shall be responsible for road and snow plowing maintenance, common areas, the local environment and the enhancement of the aesthetic surroundings to best serve its members.

Policy Serial 2024-001 (Nov)

That HOLA policy regarding ATV use within the geographic boundaries of HOLA, as defined by HOLA’s By-Laws, be as follows: Road Use: ATV use on HOLA roads is permitted on a limited basis under the guidance of the 1998 Road Use policy, to wit: “ATVs are not allowed to use the HOLA roads for pleasure riding. Members and guests may use the roads to go directly from property to property within the HOLA road system.” ATV riders who operate an ATV as a danger to HOLA members, causing unnecessary damage, or violate such policy may be subject to fine, to lose such privileges and pay for damages caused.

Policy Serial 2024-002 (Nov)

Waterfront Use: Eligible HOLA residents and guests may park an ATV in the designated waterfront parking area, while they otherwise enjoy the waterfront area, and while showing the same consideration of others and care for the waterfront environment as expected of every user. ATV riders who operate an ATV as a danger to HOLA members, causing unnecessary damage, or violate such policy may be subject to fine, to lose such privileges and pay for damages caused. As per the HOLA Bylaws, HOLA reserves the right to revoke all ATV access to the waterfront. It is advised that all ATV users be familiar with Maine state statutes with regard to accessing private property and riding ATVs on public ways (state and local roads). It is your responsibility to comply with the applicable laws.

Policy Serial 2025-001 (May)

Boat slip/kayak rack assignments: If a HOLA member sells their house/property and has a kayak rack or boat slip assignment for the upcoming season, their slot will be reassigned to members of HOLA on the waiting lists. They are not automatically transferred to the new owners.

Policy Serial 2026-001 (January)

A landowner may cut trees or brush on HOLA property at their own expense with HOLA Board permission and within the following conditions, procedural limitations and exception:

1. Landowner submits a request to HOLA Board via email, including a plot plan or survey of intended cutting area, specifying trees to be cut.

2. All Board members are given an information package (location, copy of plot plan/survey, rationale of proposal etc.) prior to the meeting and allowing time for site visits and requests for additional information.

3. Landowners will be provided an opportunity to present the proposal at the next board meeting.

4. HOLA Board will vote to approve or deny proposals, considering, but not limited to: value to the membership of HOLA, road safety and maintenance, and potential damage/injury to the property of adjoining landowners.

5, Exception: To facilitate actions by individual landowners to assist HOLA Road Commissioner and Road Committee and to facilitate proper drainage, seasonal growth in ditches may be cut by adjoining landowners without board action and are not subject to the constraints of this policy.