Good day, the following is an urgent message from the HOLA Road Commissioner, Dave Douglas.

————————————————

To all HOLA Residents:

Effective today (March 22, 2023) All HOLA roads have been posted with Heavy Loads Limited.  This means that any vehicles (trucks, construction vehicles, moving vans, etc.) that exceed a gross weight of 23,000 pounds will not be authorized on HOLA roads.  If violated, a fine of $1,000 will be issued to the HOLA resident.

For those not familiar with this posting, annually, around this time of snow melt the majority of roads (dirt or paved) in the Rangeley area are posted to protect the condition of the roads from major damage.  I (HOLA) am following the Rangeley road commissioner’s posting effectivity date lasting until June 1, 2023.

The postings are located at all intersections off of Rt 4 and Harold Ross road.  They are large orange posters clearly visible to all drivers.

Thank you for your cooperation and if there are any questions, please do not hesitate to contact me at: ddouglas.me@gmail.com.

Sincerely,

David Douglas

HOLA Road Commissioner

To:       Highlands Overlook Land Owners Association (HOLA) Members

From:  HOLA Board of Directors/Ed Zambraski

Re:      Update

Date:   November 18, 2020

One of the goals and responsibilities of the HOLA Board of Directors is to keep members informed of matters that pertain to the Association and local area.  To meet this goal HOLA has established and maintains a website. ( www.holarangeley.org )  The HOLA Board has approved an additional approach of using email in an attempt to keep members informed and to increase communication.

I have agreed to send out periodic (e.g. every few months) email “BLASTS” with succinct announcements concerning the Association and local matters that would affect our group.  The ones that were sent out over the past several years have been very well received by our members, so I will carry on.   We hope this is of value and I would appreciate any feedback that you may have.

MATTERS OF INTEREST

1. HOLA Annual Meeting: In September the annual meeting was held at the HOLA waterfront.  It was a sunny but windy day and there was a record attendance of 73 members.  Again this year, there was no increase in the HOLA dues.  The Board wishes to thank members for sending in their dues without delay.  Approximately 85 % of our 200+ members sent in their dues prior to the requested November 15^th  This clearly helps our treasurer, Jeff Zapolsky, process our finances in an easier and efficient manner.
2. The Weather: The weather has been unique.  In early November record warm temperatures (60-70 degrees) were set over a several day period.  That has changed; we are now seeing more typical November temperatures with snow flurries.  With these colder temperatures and the ground freezing, our roads are in good shape as we approach the winter season.
3. COVID-19: Going to the Maine CDC website, it can be seen that Franklin county has 154 confirmed cases.  This is relatively low compared to some of the coastal counties, such as Cumberland, which have several thousand cases.  There are several cases in Rangeley and some of the restaurants have been forced to close due to COVID-19 outbreaks.  Governor Mills has ordered that face masks be worn in public places where social distancing is difficult.  In addition, visitors from the states of CT, MA, NY and NJ (NH and VT are exempt) must self-quarantine for 14 days when they enter Maine, unless they have been tested and found to be negative for the virus.  How this mandate will be enforced and the extent to which it will be followed over the next few weeks as we enter the holiday season is in question.
4. Skiing: Saddleback Mountain has scheduled December 15^th as an opening day.  The new detachable quad lift is in.  The base lodge has been expanded and renovated.  I have been told that a high capacity indoor air ventilation system has been installed in the base lodge to maximize air exchanges as a mechanism to minimize possible viral exposure.  To get a full picture of the status of the mountain, go to https://saddlebackmaine.com  (The video of the helicopter being used to install the new chair lift is impressive!!)

The Rangeley Lakes Trail Center will be open again this year for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing.  The opening date will be determined by snow conditions.  A newsletter and applications for season passes have been mailed.  One can also obtain season passes using their website https://rangeleylakestrailcenter.org  Passes purchased prior to December 1^st will receive a 10% discount.

5. HOLA Waterfront: Our harbormaster, Mary-Ellen Moroney, has coordinated with M & H to build up the shoreline at the south side of our harbor to prevent further erosion.  In addition, several large dead trees and stumps will be removed.  In the spring the plan is to reseed parts of the waterfront area in order to re-establish grassy areas.  Lastly, two paddle boards have been left at the waterfront. The owner needs to remove these.
6. Snowmobiles: Many HOLA members are looking forward to this winter’s snowmachining, myself included.   Access to the Rangeley Snowmobile Trail System, which for us starts at the CMP sub-power station in Rangeley, is via the CMP powerline right-of-way.  This right-of-way is NOT a snowmachine trail.  It goes over private lands.  To this point in time, HOLA landowners have allowed access over the CMP right-of-way to enable only HOLA members, their guests and renters to reach the trail system.  In addition, there is approved access to Rangeley Lake off Kendall Farm Trail through the Farmhouse property and the HOLA waterfront.  As with ATVs, HOLA roads should not be used for recreational riding, their use is to access the trail system.

To:       Highlands Overlook Land Owners Association (HOLA) Members

From:  HOLA Board of Directors/Ed Zambraski

Re:      Update

Date:   June 22, 2020

One of the goals and responsibilities of the HOLA Board of Directors is to keep members informed of matters that pertain to the Association and local area.  To meet this goal HOLA has established and maintains a website. ( www.holarangeley.org )  The HOLA Board has approved an additional approach of using email in an attempt to keep members informed and to increase communication.

I have agreed to send out periodic (e.g. every few months) email “BLASTS” with succinct announcements concerning the Association and local matters that would affect our group.  The ones that were sent out over the past several years have been very well received by our members, so I will carry on.   We hope this is of value and I would appreciate any feedback that you may have.

MATTERS OF INTEREST

Spring? As usual over the last few years, we did not have much of a spring season.  Ice out was May 9^th, but on May 8^th we got several inches of snow.  The good news with the exceptionally cold temperatures during April and May was that the snow melt was gradual and this minimized erosion and road damage.  Our roads are in good shape.  Our Road Commissioner, Dave Arthurs, and his road committee have done a very good job in terms of taking care of any immediate needs or road problems, and working to improve the overall quality of our roads. Recently the roads were graded and shale placed on some problem areas.

2. COVID-19 As everyone knows, this global pandemic has had a profound impact on all aspects of our lives.  While Rangeley is far from some of the viral “hotspots”, like those along the coast and in Massachusetts, Connecticut and New York, some of the impact of folks in Rangeley has been unique.  Many individuals who normally may head south or to the southwest during the winter months, had difficulty getting back due to flight cancellations and/or concerns about traveling.  During April “mud season”, when many of us like to get away, very few folks actually were able to travel.  Signs of people wanting to help others was very evident.  Restaurants provided curbside meals.  Individuals made phone calls to people who were living alone to make sure they were okay and to take care of any immediate needs.  Governor Mill’s 14 day quarantine for those people coming to Maine from out-of- state has had a huge impact, lessening tourists and visits by family and friends.  Trying to reopen during the summer months is going to be a complex issue.

 Saddleback Mountain Ski Area The plan to open  for the 2020-2021 winter season appears to be on track. Discounted seasons passes were on sale through mid-June.  A new detachable quad lift is being installed.  I have been told that the ride up will go from 11 to 4 minutes!  That will clearly help on cold and windy days.  There are also plans to make renovations and upgrades to the base lodge.

HOLA Waterfront The waterfront is ready for full use.  The dock, swim lines and swim raft are all in.  A second BBQ grill has been installed.  The lake is unbelievably warm for this time of year.  The swimming is great, especially with the hot weather we have been having.  Our Harbormaster, Mary-Ellen Moroney, coordinated slip assignments for “ice out”, as well as for the remainder of the summer months.  Spaces on the kayak/canoe racks have also been assigned. The HOLA waterfront is a huge asset for members of the Association.  The HOLA Board wants to insure that this facility is being used in a safe and proper manner.  The specific guidelines and rules for its use are on the HOLA website.  A condensed version of the rules and requirements is posted on the waterfront shed.  I am also attaching this condensed version to this email.   All HOLA members need to be aware of these guidelines and requirements.  It is also imperative that this information be passed on to guests and renters.

Have a great summer!

To: Highlands Overlook Land Owners Association (HOLA) Members
From: HOLA Board of Directors/Ed Zambraski
Re: Update
Date: November 19, 2019
One of the goals and responsibilities of the HOLA Board of Directors is to keep members informed of matters that pertain to the Association and local area. To meet this goal HOLA has established and maintains a website. ( www.holarangeley.org ) The HOLA Board has approved an additional approach of using email in an attempt to keep members informed and to increase communication.
I have agreed to send out periodic (e.g. every few months) email “BLASTS” with succinct announcements concerning the Association and local matters that would affect our group. The ones that were sent out over the past several years have been very well received by our members, so I will carry on. We hope this is of value and I would appreciate any feedback that you may have.
MATTERS OF INTEREST
1. The Weather & Fall Foliage: We had relatively mild weather this Fall, however a couple of wind storms brought down many trees. The temperatures dipped into the single digits in early November. The colors of the Fall foliage this year were no less than “spectacular”.
2. Roads: Our roads are in very good shape due to a large amount of road grading and putting down significant amounts of crushed shale in the Fall. Many thanks for the work of our Road Commissioner, Dave Arthurs, and the members of the Road Committee.
3. Winter Guidelines: In general, members of HOLA are very good in terms of understanding and complying with the Association’s policies, rules and regulations. In the winter there appear to be a significant number of folks who have guests and/or rent out their houses to snowmachiners or skiers; indivduals who are not familiar with our policies or regulations. To improve communication the HOLA Board has published a list of Winter Guidelines. This “HOLA Winter Guidelines” can be found on the HOLA website. I am also attaching this document to this email BLAST. If you have guests or renters, please make them aware of these guidelines.
4. HOLA Annual Meeting: The annual HOLA meeting was held over the Labor Day weekend. In a “nutshell” the good news is that HOLA is in very good financial shape, the Road Fees remain the same (fees that are unchanged from 2008), and over 80 % of HOLA members sent in their fees by the requested 15 November date. Thanks to all of the Board and Committee members who volunteer and donate their time and effort to the Association.
5. Saddleback Mountain: “Sold, Not Sold, Sold, Not Sold, Sold, What Next??”
The “saga” of the Saddleback Mountain ski resort continues. Several years ago, after the deal with the Aussie fell through, things were pretty quiet concerning the possible sale of the mountain. This past summer the latest news was that an agreement had been reached with the Berry family, the owners of the mountain, and “Arctaris Impact Fund” of Boston to buy the mountain. A November 5 contract signing date was announced. Then in October the word was that there was no deal; back to square one. Subsequently, there was a surprise announcement that an agreement with Arctaris has been reached. There was not a lot of detail in this final announcement, but it was stated that major improvements in the lifts and snow making equipment and the upgrading of the base lodge were going to be made, with an opening date in the 2020 ski season. If this latest deal goes through, it will be very good for the Rangeley region.
It should be noted that over the past few years the” Rangeley Lakes Trails Center” for cross country skiing and snowshoeing has been fully operational despite the closure of the downhill ski area. It is currently gearing up and getting ready for the 2019-2020 season

To:       Highlands Overlook Land Owners Association (HOLA) Members

From: HOLA Board of Directors/Ed Zambraski

Re:      Update

Date:   June 11, 2019

One of the goals and responsibilities of the HOLA Board of Directors is to keep members informed of matters that pertain to the Association and local area.  To meet this goal HOLA has established and maintains a website. ( www.holarangeley.org )  The HOLA Board has approved an additional approach of using email in an attempt to keep members informed and to increase communication.

I have agreed to send out periodic (e.g. every few months) email “BLASTS” with succinct announcements concerning the Association and local matters that would affect our group.  The ones that were sent out over the past several years have been very well received by our members, so I will carry on.   We hope this is of value and I would appreciate any feedback that you may have.

MATTERS OF INTEREST

1. The Weather: Last year I did not send out a “Spring” email BLAST because we had no spring.  If nothing else, the weather is consistent; no Spring this year as well.  For several weeks the weather pattern was cold, cloudy and wet.  Ice out was May 11^th.  In the last 20 years there have only been three years when ice out was May 11^th or later.  The good news is that yesterday it was sunny and 82 degrees.
2. HOLA: As you are aware, the activities and responsibilities of the HOLA Board, the HOLA Committee Chairs and members, and our Road Commissioner are all carried out by volunteers.  I would like to make two observations. The first is that the Association is financially sound.  The Board members have been excellent stewards of the dues that members contribute.  The second point refers to the general attitude and atmosphere within the Association.  Many of us have heard of or have had bad experiences with other  Homeowner’s Associations where there are personality clashes, in-fighting and/or contentious debates over various matters.  Having served on the HOLA Board for many years, I have seen none of this.   This climate clearly has contributed to the success of HOLA.
3. Roads: This was an extremely difficult winter for our roads.  Despite the snow and icing most of the road surfaces held up well, probably due to the increased amount of shale that has been used over the last couple of years.  As trouble spots arose, they were taken care of.  As you may be aware, there were tentative plans to have a section of the north entrance to the Overlook paved to deal with the “wash-boarding”.   At a recent HOLA Board meeting it was decided to put that plan “on hold” due to concerns about the underlying road foundation and its ability to support an asphalt surface.
4. Waterfront:  As noted in the last email BLAST, during the fall major improvements were made at our waterfront.  Several thousand dollars was spent to dredge out and deepen the harbor and the channel leading into our harbor.   In addition, new kayak racks have been added, the grounds have been improved and our aluminum dock system is complete.  With these improvements there has been an increase in usage; which is excellent.  That being said, the HOLA Board wants to make sure that the waterfront is being used in an appropriate and proper manner by HOLA members, as well as any guests or renters.        Attached to this email BLAST is a sheet listing the recommendations/policies for use of the waterfront which has been approved by the BOARD.  Please review these, and if you have any guests or renters, please make them aware of these policies.
5. HOLA Annual Meeting: The HOLA annual meeting will be held on Saturday, August 31^st and 11:00 am.  The meeting will take place at The Barn at 4 High Street in Rangeley.  We hope you can attend.

To:        Highlands Overlook Land Owners Association (HOLA) Members

From:   HOLA Board of Directors/Ed Zambraski

Re:       Update

Date:    September 18, 2018

One of the goals and responsibilities of the HOLA Board of Directors is to keep members informed of matters that pertain to the Association and local area.  To meet this goal HOLA has established and maintains a website. ( www.holarangeley.org )  The HOLA Board has approved an additional approach of using email in an attempt to keep members informed and to increase communication.

I have agreed to send out periodic (e.g. every few months) email “BLASTS” with succinct announcements concerning the Association and local matters that would affect our group.  The ones that were sent out over the past three years have been very well received by our members, so I will carry on.   We hope this is of value and I would appreciate any feedback that you may have.

MATTERS OF INTEREST

1. HOLA Annual Meeting: The 2018 Annual meeting of HOLA was held on September 1st .  The meeting was well attended.  The good news was that HOLA is financially sound and our dues will remain the same for 2018-2019; $ 210 for an unimproved lot and $ 462 for an improved lot with a house.   It should be noted that there has not been an increase in our dues over the last 10 years.   The minutes of the meeting have been posted on the HOLA website. 
   • Discussion concerning tree cutting and view restoration.
     • As you may be aware, various HOLA members have approached the Association about the concern over the loss of their views and their ability to cut trees. The last email BLAST had a questionnaire in an attempt to determine how many owners had concerns and were interested in tree cutting to restore their views.  Of the 190 HOLA members only about 15 owners responded and the amount of tree cutting being considered was very limited.  To those folks who responded to the questionnaire, and others who have since contacted the Board about this issue, information on arborists/tree cutters and/or various companies that have worked on our hills will be sent to them.  

• At the annual meeting this topic was brought up.  The HOLA Board issued a formal statement concerning its involvement and policy concerning tree cutting and view restoration.  That statement reads:

While HOLA has no legal or financial responsibility with regard to property owners maintaining their views, the Association is concerned about the loss of views and decrease in property values.  In an effort to assist members in this regard, the following information and policy is being shared.

1. It has been documented that since both the Highlands and Overlook were once pasteur with limited trees, in general there is no restriction in clear cutting properties on both hills. Owners should consult their deeds, plantation/township and/or LURC for any specific information with regards to view restoration/tree cutting.
2. HOLA will allow owners to remove trees on the HOLA road right-of-way and within Common lands. It is the owner’s responsibility to determine that the trees in question are within the right-of-way and/or common lands by either locating survey stakes or having the area surveyed. All brush and trees must be removed; stumps can remain.   Before such work is done the owner should inform HOLA of their intent and also communicate this with any adjacent landowner.

2. Our roads: Our Road Commissioner, Dave Arthurs, and his road committee have continued to make progress and major improvements on our 7 miles of HOLA roads. Culvert work has been done and more of our roads have been covered with shale.  Recently, the roads have been graded.  One matter under consideration is to have the first 150-200 feet of the main (north) entrance to the Overlook paved with asphalt in order to eliminate the severe “wash-boarding” that persists.  The final decision will largely depend on the cost; several estimates will be obtained.  Should this occur the work would not be done until next spring/summer.  This winter Burgess will again be doing our snow plowing and sanding.

3. The waterfront: If you have not been to the waterfront lately, you need to check it out. Major improvements and changes have been made.  VOLUNTEERISM within HOLA thrives!!!   Several of our members spent a huge amount of time and effort in cleaning up the waterfront.  Several trailer/truck loads of brush, debris and other materials were removed from the waterfront. The old wooden bar, bench and stone firepit are gone.  This has opened up a great view of the lake and Doctor’s Island.  A new steel park-style charcoal grill has also been installed.
   • Our Harbormaster, Mary-Ellen Moroney, has been doing “yeoman’s work” in jumping through all of the whoops to get the permits to have the harbor and channel dredged this fall, as well as putting down stone to prevent erosion of our shoreline.
   • Individuals with boats/kayaks are asked to remove them from the waterfront by 1 October.
4. HOLA website: “Be aware but not alarmed!”  A few months ago Google began marking non-HTTPS sites as “not secure”.  When you go to HOLA’s website, holarangeley.org    you may see a warning that this site does not have a secure certificate.  Our webmaster has told us that sites like HOLA’s normally do not have, or require, a secure certificate because no personal information is on the website and we do not use the website for any financial transactions.  Consequently, at present there is no justification for HOLA to have to pay several hundred dollars to have our website secured by Google.

 To:       HOLA Members who inquired about potential tree work for view restoration

From:   Ed Zambraski/For the HOLA Board

Re:       Potential Tree Work

Date:   September 21, 2018

As indicated in the recent HOLA email BLAST, information about arborists/tree cutters/companies would be sent to all HOLA members who inquired about potential work.  Below are two lists.

The first is a list of individuals/companies who have done tree work on our hills AND who have received very positive reviews in terms of the quality of their work and cost.  Please:  this is not to disregard other local companies/individuals that can do this work; this is simply the names that I have been provided.

The second list are the names and locations of HOLA members who are considering having tree work done; the same individuals who are receiving this email.  This second list is being provided so that members might be able to coordinate work, possibly with a neighbor, to reduce costs.  Such efforts to possibly coordinate work will be up to individual landowners; HOLA will not be involved in lining up work or executing any work to be done.

Arborists/Companies that have completed tree work for HOLA members.

 Mark Beauregard     864-5040        

Jim Carignan             864-5447

Cerminera Enterprises (Frank Cerminera)           864-2622

M & H Construction             864-5617

Mark Reiland            207 431-6367

Nicholast Therault    207  212-8583

 HOLA Members Considering Tree Work for View Restoration

 Those on the Overlook

 Hoffman, Carol and Bruce  23 Paul’s Path  Lots 22D 24D                     

Syrel, Kim                              28 Paul’s Path  Lot 36D

Dodge, Rick and Wendy      Summit Road

Donahue, Todd                     Old Esker Way  Lot 21D

Leclerc, Michael                    33 Loop Road

Matley, Frank                        85 Winston Road

Metivier, Dave                       39 Barbra Lane

Salvini, Alan                          18 Winston Road

Smith, Barry

Johnson, Tim                         135 The Loop Road

Perry, Lori

Myers, Tim                            Between Paul’s Path & Deer Cliff Run

 Those on the Highlands

 Vermette, Jerry and Claire              174 Lynn Way

Sampson, Nick and Gay                   2 Lynn Way

Johnson, Terry                                  Tilt of the Kilt

Mularz, Walter and Joan                 44 Lynn Way

Kastner, Kathleen                             168 Lynn Way

Zulauf, Mike                                      144 Lynn Way

Dailey, Pamela and Steven               126 Kendall Farm Trail

Gavin, John                                       184 Lynn Way

Hylinski, Bernie                                 150 Lynn Way & Tilt of the Kilt

To:        Highlands Overlook Land Owners Association (HOLA) Members

From:   HOLA Board of Directors/Ed Zambraski

Re:       Update

Date:    June 5, 2018

One of the goals and responsibilities of the HOLA Board of Directors is to keep members informed of matters that pertain to the Association and local area.  To meet this goal HOLA has established and maintains a website. (www.holarangeley.org)  The HOLA Board has approved an additional approach of using email in an attempt to keep members informed and to increase communication.

I have agreed to send out periodic (e.g. every few months) email “BLASTS” with succinct announcements concerning the Association and local matters that would affect our group.  The ones that were sent out over the past three years have been very well received by our members, so I will carry on.   We hope this is of value and I would appreciate any feedback that you may have.

MATTERS OF INTEREST

1. Consistency: Last year I did not send out an email BLAST in the spring because last year there was no spring.  Most believe that “consistency” is important.  From what I have been told (for all of April I hightailed it out of Rangeley to warmer latitudes), and observed over the last few weeks, this year is more or less the same; not much of a spring! We had a nice stretch of warm and dry days in May, but the temperatures are currently about 20 degrees lower than average. The good news is that we currently have more than 15 hours of daylight!
2. HOLA Roads:  Our roads have finally dried out and hardened up.  Our Road Commissioner, Dave Arthurs, had arranged to have the roads graded in early May, but the conditions were not right, and the grading had to be delayed.  We are hoping to have the roads graded within the next 1-2 weeks.  In general, the shale that was put down last fall has helped the roads.  More shale and some ditching will be done this spring.  Also, Dave has arranged for calcium chloride to be put down on the roads this summer to control the dust.
   
3. Waterfront: Things are moving along according to the normal schedule at the Waterfront. The boat docks have been in since early May, many of our members have been out fishing and doing well, and the kayak/canoe racks are beginning to fill up. The aluminum docks and swimming raft should be in within the next couple of weeks.
4. Local News: There are some major changes in “downtown” Rangeley.
   • The Lakeside Theater has upgraded to a digital projector and sound system and is now showing new releases and independent movies. Coming June 8-10, “Isle of Dogs” PG-13, and June 15-17 “A Quiet Place” PG-13. To see the complete Movie schedule and other Events go to  http://rangeleyarts.org/
   • Sarge’s Sports Pub and Grub has undergone a major expansion and renovations. I have not been in Sarge’s since this work was done, but I am told that the changes are quite dramatic
   • Tree Cutting/Restoration of lake and mountain views: Several members of HOLA have approached the HOLA Board with questions about having trees removed in order to restore the views that were once had.  First, it needs to be made clear that HOLA has no responsibility for maintaining views, or tree cutting, on the properties of HOLA members. (The only narrow exception is that HOLA does “own” the trees that may be within the HOLA road right-of-ways.)
     • To address this issue of view restoration, the HOLA Board had asked its “Long Range Planning Committee” to look into this matter. The Committees’ response was that “we need more information” in order to determine what might be done, costs, logistics, etc.
     • At the recent HOLA Board Meeting I was asked to use this email BLAST to start gathering some information on tree cutting and view restoration.
     • I have agreed to take this on; to gather some information/data to pass on to the Long Range Planning Committee so that they can determine what, if anything, might be done. That being said, with almost 200 properties within

HOLA this is not a “simple matter”.  I am attaching a sheet to start this process.  I have no idea as to whether this will go anywhere, in terms of what kind of a response I might get or what might eventuate, but I have agreed to have a “go at it”!

 HOLA Annual Meeting: The next annual HOLA meeting will be on Saturday September 1, 2018 at 11:00 am.  It will be held at the “Barn” at the Congregational Church which is located at 2 High Street.  We hope you can attend.

To:        Highlands Overlook Land Owners Association (HOLA) Members

From:   HOLA Board of Directors/Ed Zambraski

Re:       Update

Date:    August 1, 2017

One of the goals and responsibilities of the HOLA Board of Directors is to keep members informed of matters that pertain to the Association and local area.  To meet this goal HOLA has established and maintains a website. The HOLA website has been revised.  See the note below about the new website address and check it out.  The HOLA Board has approved an additional approach of using email in an attempt to keep members informed and to increase communication.

I have agreed to maintain a HOLA member email list and to send out periodic (e.g. every few months) email “BLASTS” with succinct announcements concerning the Association and local matters that would affect our group.  The ones that were sent out over the past year and a half were very well received by our members, so I will forge on.   We hope this is of value and would appreciate any feedback that you may have.

MATTERS OF INTEREST

1. HOLA Annual Meeting The 2017 Annual meeting of HOLA will occur on Saturday, September 2^nd  at 11:00 am at the “Barn” adjacent to the Congregational Church on High Street.  The HOLA Board members donate hundreds of hours for the benefit of our Association members.  This is a great opportunity to meet your HOLA Board members, to learn more about the various services being provided or planned, and to offer input in terms of any questions or issues that you wish to address.

2. Saddleback Moutain Sale In June there was a  news conference held at the Saddleback Mountain Ski area.   It was announced that an Australian Company, the Majella Group, had their offer to purchase the ski area accepted by the Berry family, the ski area’s current owners.  The terms of the sale, plans for development and/or a date for when the ski area would be re-open were not disclosed.  The sale was scheduled to be finalized sometime this summer.  Since that announcement no additional details, at least that I am aware of, have been released.  It is not known if there will be adequate time to make some needed repairs and upgrades on the lifts for the ski area to be operational for the 2017-2018 season.  That being said, this announcement is clearly very good news, with this sale having the potential to have a major positive impact on the Rangeley area.

3. HOLA Road Committee If you drive almost anywhere on our roads, there are clear signs that the Road committee and our road commissioner, Dave Arthurs, have been making significant improvements.  Our roads have been graded, and in places that tend to erode, a several inch topping of stone has been added. In addition, several of our roads have been treated with Calcium Chloride to keep the dust down.  Some culvert work is scheduled for this Fall.  Contact Dave Arthurs (864-3992) if you have problems or questions concerning our roads.                                        Lastly, in July there was an auto accident where the Lakeview Highlands “ Lynn Way” meets Route 4.  A car veered off the road and it took out our “Lakeview Highlands” sign.  There is “good news” on two counts.  First, no one was hurt. Second, our Lakeview Highlands sign, which is probably over 30 years old, will be replaced as part of an insurance claim.  Several designs for a new sign have been drawn up and estimates on the fabrication and installation are being obtained.

4. HOLA Waterfront The waterfront Committee and the Harbormaster, Mary-Ellen Moroney, have been busy.  All of the docks, piers, swim lines and the swim float are in the water.  Yesterday the water temperature was 69 degrees!!  A new kayak rack was added to accommodate the ever-increasing request for spaces. To improve visibility as one is leaving the waterfront and stopped at Route 4, a large amount of vegetation (e.g. branches, small trees, brush) has been removed/trimmed back.  Lastly, Paul Ellis has gifted our waterfront with some additional benches, picnic tables, a grill and a large serving table.
   • The issue of dogs at the Waterfront Many HOLA members bring their dogs to the Waterfront.  If your dog likes to chase geese, we would encourage you to bring them more often!  However, there have been some problems, or issues, with dogs at the Waterfront.  Consequently, the Waterfront Committee and HOLA Board have approved of the following rules concerning dogs at the Waterfront.
     • Dogs must be on a leash or under their owner’s total control at all times.
     • Dogs are not allowed within the swimming area.
     • Owners must clean up after their pets.

New HOLA website:  New Address!!  As announced previously, please note that to access the HOLA website the address has changed.  The new address is:  www.holarangeley.org  Please update this address in your “favorites” and address books.

To:        Highlands Overlook  Land Owners Association (HOLA) Members

From:   HOLA Board of Directors/Ed Zambraski

Re:       Update

Date:    December 5, 2016

One of the goals and responsibilities of the HOLA Board of Directors is to keep members informed of matters that pertain to the Association and local area.  To meet this goal HOLA has established and maintains a website. (See the important announcement below concerning the website!)  The HOLA Board has approved an additional approach of using email in an attempt to keep members informed and to increase communication.

I have agreed to maintain a HOLA member email list and to send out periodic (e.g. every couple of months) email “BLASTS” with succinct announcements concerning the Association and local matters that would affect our group.  The ones that were sent out this past December, February, May and August were very well received by our members.  This email is our fifth.   We hope this is of value and would appreciate any feedback that you may have.

MATTERS OF INTEREST

• It is snowing!! December has arrived and along with our first real snow with 3-5 inches covering the ground.  Everyone is hoping for some serious snow this year.

• Saddleback Ski Area Proposal On October 27, 2016 there was a news conference in Portland and a press release concerning the status of Saddle Mountain.  A community coalition, “Saddleback Community Mountain Resort” LLC, have put forth a proposal to buy the ski area.  It was indicated that they have a verbal agreement from the Berry Family, Saddleback’s current owners, for purchase of the ski area.  This plan requires that $ 4 million be raised for the purchase to go through.  Details of the plan may be found at skisaddlebackme.com  This sale would be coupled with the purchase of several thousand acres of land adjacent to the ski area by two groups:  The Trust for Public Land and the New England Forestry Foundation. This purchase would be for forestland conservation.  While this is positive news, no recent updates have been made concerning the status of the fund raising.
• It should be noted that the Rangeley Lakes Trails Center (cross country skiing and snowshoeing) will be open for the 2016-2017 season.
•  HOLA Road Committee The committee and our road commissioner, Dave Arthurs, have been very active.  Our roads are in relatively good shape going into the winter season.  The good low temperatures and  freeze that we are currently having will help.  As indicated in August, the HOLA Board has approved a new 5 year contract with Dave Burgess for the plowing and sanding of our roads. If you have any problem or issue with plowing/sanding, please do not contact Dave Burgess or any of his employees.  Contact Dave Arthurs or any member of the road committee.
• Snowmachine Access to Trails.(see map below)*
  

• Each year there are questions about the use of HOLA roads by snowmachines/ATVs. The following restates HOLA road policies.
  • HOLA members, or their guests, may use snowmachines or ATVs on HOLA roads to: 1) visit other HOLA members,  2) to access the snow machine trail system.
  • Non-HOLA members are not allowed to ride on any of our roads.
  • The CMP right-of-way for the power lines and is NOT a right-of-way for the general public or HOLA members for their use of snowmachines or ATVs. New signs have been installed where the CMP power lines intersect HOLA roads to indicate that the use of HOLA roads as trails is prohibited.
• There are three access points, or routes, for HOLA members, or their guests, to access the public snow machine trail system or Rangeley Lake. (See the attached map)
  • These are:
    • Lakeview Highlands -off Kendall Farm road, north of Farmhouse Inn, across route 4 and down through HOLA waterfront to access the lake.
    • Lakeview Highlands-off Marion Drive, heading north along the CMP right of way, across Dallas Hill Rd and into Rangeley.
    • Overlook-off Summit Road, through lots 112E/113E along CMP right of way to ITS 84.
  • I have been told that a snowmachine trail from “Rev-it-up Sports Shop” on Rte 4 to Rangeley, which was closed last year, has been re-opened.

• HOLA website: New Address!!  As announced previously, please note that to access the HOLA website the address has changed.  The new address is:  holarangeley.org  Please update this address in your “favorites” and address books.

hola-map * click here

HOLA
Annual Membership Meeting
September 5, 2015 Minutes
Board Chairman, Millie Hoekstra welcomed the HOLA membership to the annual meeting and thanked the Board for all their hard work during the past year.

Secretary Report: The minutes of the 2014 meeting were approved as submitted by the Secretary, John Clark.

Social Activities Report:
Sandy Young reported that we tried a social period prior to the meeting rather than a lunch following the meeting. It seems that everyone is busy with their own families and guests. The Music on the Lake was not at the HOLA waterfront this year, but was the at Town Park.

Treasurer’s report:
Mike Moroney (treasurer for 13 years) was thanked for his many years of service to the organization. The new Treasurer, Jeff Zapolsky, submitted a written report indicating Total Liabilities & Equity of $34,468.72 and a Net Income of $5,849.38
He also gave an update on receipts and delinquents.
The report was accepted as submitted. Please see the website for full report.

Waterfront Committee Report: Mary-Ellen Moroney
Paul Ellis brought back the ladder from the old dock and Burgess’s employees put it on the raft.
The ladder on the new dock was fixed as of yesterday. If we can get more easement money, we may be able to finish the docking system next year. The sign-up sheet is in the box on the shed for fall boating and fishing. Anyone wanting a slip, including the boats already there, needs to sign up on the sheet. If we want to insure the swim lines and buoys when they are in the shed for $1,500 for named risks we can do so for $30.

Mary-Ellen made the motion to insure the docks when they are outside the water for an annual premium of $500 with a $500 deductible. This motion was defeated

Road Committee Report:
We are moving through a dry summer which is leading to some dusty road conditions. Although calcium on the roads is an answer (this was done in June), we must have some rain to set the calcium on the roads and this has not been in our favor. The road committee will look into having some sections of the roads
(especially the main roads-Overlook Road and The Lynn Way) treated with liquid calcium in the future which may last for a longer period of time.

Summer work this year included grading and rock raking the roads. There was some ditching and rocking on The Loop Road in an effort to alleviate water runoff issues. The Lynn Way was ditched and rocked to help with spring water issues in that area. The material removed was used to build up a berm along Morel Road and a ditch was added on lower side.
The road committee identified two areas that need attention this fall. Winston Road will be ditched and graded and the sight issue on Marion Drive will be addressed. The committee will also
look for trees in the road right of way that could potentially cause problems during winter storms. The snow plowing contract is all set for this year. If you have any problems with winter road conditions, please call the road commissioner who will relay any concerns to the contractor.
Thank you for your continued support,
Les Hoekstra
HOLA Road Commissioner

Proposed Budget for fiscal 2015 – 2016: (see website for budget)
Budget of $92,260.00 (same as last year) was submitted

The Budget was approved as submitted.

Assessor’s Report: (see website for full report)
The rates will stay the same for next year: $463 house, $210 lot, $65 dues
No increase in road fees for fiscal 2015-2016

Nominating Committee for fiscal 2015-2016:
Individuals elected to the Board: Paul Ellis, Jeff Munson, Ann Arthurs and Ed Zambraski.
Assessors: Dave Arthurs, Ed Zambraski and Jeff Munson
Road Commissioner: David Arthurs
Sign-up sheets for committees was circulated

The next meeting of the HOLA Membership will be on Saturday (Sept. 3rd) of Labor Day weekend in 2016 at 11 a.m. at the Barn.

The Executive Board re-elected all current officers for 2016

Annual Membership Meeting
Minutes
August 30, 2014

Millie Hoekstra opened the meeting with introductions and thank you to each Board Member and Committees.
The minutes of the 2013 meeting were approved as submitted.

Treasurer’s report and other financials. Mike Moroney  reviewed the fiscal year end budget with the members. His report was accepted as submitted.
Mike and Millie reviewed the propose budget for 2014/2015 fiscal year. The proposed budget was approved as submitted with a $20 increase in dues. ($65)

Assessors Report: Lots=$210, Houses=$463

Waterfront Committee: We have new non sinking lighted swim buoys. This should keep boaters from cutting our swim lines
and help boaters find our harbor.
We had some major repairs to the dock and swim lines after Hurricane Arthur. The ladder for the raft is missing. It was torn off when being moved. It will be replaced for next season.
The amended waterfront policy will be retyped and presented to the Board for approval in November.
There is a sign-up sheet for slips for fall fishing after Labor Day.
For those who have partial waterfront rights – full rights can be purchased for $1,500. The cost of full rights for lots without waterfront rights is $9,500. These prices are available
through 2016.
The Waterfront Committee will assign the slips and the canoe/kayak racks in January. Please send in your requests when you pay your dues in October.
I want to thank our Waterfront Committee: Mike Moroney, John and Peggy Clark, Dick Moore, Paul Ellis, Tom Sullivan, Dave and Ann
Arthurs, Gary Wadsworth, Chester Winooski, Ed Zambraski, and Butch DeSanctis.

Road Committee Report: (meeting 8/23/14)
Those present: Ann & Dave Arthurs, Paul Ellis, Les & Millie Hoekstra, Ben Wetherill
1. Review of road conditions
Overall the roads are in pretty good shape. A few problem spots were identified and discussed.
The “brown patch” (ground up asphalt and gravel) that was used last fall seems to be working well. We will be using more of
that this year. Also, we will be looking at prices to pave 100’ or so at each entrance. The Loop Road water issues will be discussed with M & H personnel and come up with a plan. Speed on
our roads is still an issue; is it time to install speed bumps for the summer months?

The Circle in the Overlook will need attention this fall
There will be some ditching/topping done this fall
2. It was decided to keep the road budget the same for next year. $79,500
3. The gate on The Lynn Way will be open after Labor Day. (We had it opened on a couple busy weekends this summer) Those living on The Lynn Way have commented how much they appreciate
the less traffic and use of the road by those just cutting through and leaving some of their trash.
4. A DR String mower is being considered as a solution to the mowing of the sides of the roads. We will look to purchase this fall.

Nominating Committee: Ken Young advised that those with terms expiring have agreed to serve another term. John and Peggy Clark, Anne Crump, Dave Arthurs and Sandy Young.
Les Hoekstra has agreed to serve another term as Road Commissioner.
There were no other nominations and all nominees were elected by the membership.

The Board met following the membership meeting and all Board
Officers were elected for another one year term.

The next meeting of the HOLA Membership
will be on Saturday of Labor Day weekend in 2015 at 11 a.m. at
the Barn.

June 2014

Dear HOLA members:

Summer is slowly arriving in Rangeley!! The town is getting busy with many seasonal residents returning to enjoy the beauty we call Rangeley. There have been many programs and events
happening which gives everyone many opportunities to enjoy our beautiful region.

Our roads survived the harsh winter and we have done some maintenance and grading but most of the work will be done in the fall. We have closed the gate on The Lynn Way going out to
Harold Ross Road for the summer to through traffic. Residents wishing an access key may call 207-864-2963. Today we received a report and a “thank you” from one of the residents at that end
of the road for doing so. “The traffic by our house has been reduced by 85%”. This will hopefully reduce maintenance costs and increase safety within our road system. We hope you will soon be enjoying the waterfront and picnic area, the docks and swim lines are in and ready for your pleasure.

A special event for HOLA members will be held at the waterfront on August 21st. Rangeley Friends of the Arts will be presenting Music from the Lake again this summer. The Oquossoc Lady
with the DownEast Brass aboard will be stopping at our waterfront and giving a special concert for you and your friends. Plan now to join us for a special evening. More details will be posted at the waterfront.

Our HOLA Annual Meeting will be held at the The Barn at 4 High Street in Rangeley on Labor Day weekend—Saturday August 30th at 11AM. The road warrant is enclosed for your information. We will be electing members to the Board of Directors, a Road Commissioner and approving the annual budget. A potluck cookout will be held immediately following the meeting at the same
location. If anyone is interested in serving on the HOLA Board of Directors or one of the committees, please let any BOD member know of your interest. A healthy organization requires
widespread involvement of the membership.

Please check our website

www:highlandsoverlook.org for the minutes of the Executive Board and financial reports of this past year.

If you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact the members of the board at anytime.

Sincerely yours,

Millie Hoekstra

HOLA Annual Member Meeting August 31, 2013

The minutes of the 2012 Annual Meeting were approved as submitted.
Chairman of the Board, Millie Hoekstra welcomed everyone and explained the reasons for the annual meeting.

Treasurer’s Report: Mike Moroney gave a report on the HOLA financials which was approved as submitted.

Click here to view treasurers Report

Waterfront Committee Report:
We have a new rack for the canoes and kayaks. We have had openings for the slips this summer as people’s plans have changed since they originally signed up on the sheet that is
sent out along with the dues. The Waterfront Committee will assign the slips and the canoe/kayak racks in January.
We’ve had a few trees removed by a family of beavers.
We have had the electric line in the conduit under the loading ramp reburied. We have also replaced the worn out swim line with a new one.
There is a sign up sheet on the shed for slips for Fall Fishing after Labor Day.
For those few whose lots do not have full waterfront rights the rights are $1,500 to the end of 2014. The cost for waterfront
rights for a lot with no rights is $9,500 for the same period of time.
I want to thank our Waterfront Committee: Mike Moroney, John and Peggy Clark, Dick Moore, Paul Ellis, Tom Sullivan, Dave and Ann
Arthurs, Gary Wadsworth, Chester Winkowski, Ed Zambraski, and Butch DeSanctis.
Mary-Ellen Moroney, Harbormaster

Road Committee Report:
See Board Minutes for details.
2013-2014 Budget was approved as submitted.
At the 9 a.m. Board of Directors meeting the board voted to install a gate on the Lynn Way near the Harold Ross Road.

Assessors Report:
Dave Arthurs advised that the assessment for the next fiscal year will be the same as last year.
Based on an approved budget of $79,500
Unimproved lots = $210
Improved lots = $463

Nominating Committee:
This year the terms of 7 members of the Board of Directors expired.
Dave Douglas
Millie Hoekstra
Barbara Meservey
Mary-Ellen Moroney
Mike Moroney
Ana Wetherill
Ken Young

Barbara Meservey has decided not to run for another term.
Jeff Zapolsky has said that he would like his name to be placed on the ballot.
TinaMarie Falasco is no longer a HOLA member. The directors have appointed Anne Crump to fill out the last year of TinaMarie’s term.

The list of nominees for the Board of Directors is:
Dave Douglas
Millie Hoekstra
Mary-Ellen Moroney
Mike Moroney
Ana Wetherill
Ken Young
Jeff Zapolsky

We have enough nominees to have a full slate of directors.

Nominating Committee
Ken Young
Jeff Munson
All nominees were approved by the membership.
Les Hoekstra was elected to another term as Road Commissioner.

The Board of Directors met and all officers were elected to serve another term.

Dear HOLA Members:
Another beautiful summer has come to an end—almost!! The Fall colors have arrived in all their splendor. Many of you have had time to enjoy the beauty of our region and relax and recharge
for the busyness of everyday life. We encourage all members to become involved in the association as much as possible. Check our website www.highlandsoverlook.org for additional information. Please email your email address to our Secretary, John at BigIMe@aol.com so we can connect with you more efficiently. If you would like to volunteer for a committee, please email me at

millie@youthunlimited.org before November 1. We soon will be doing some road maintenance to get ready for the winter months.
Please review the minutes of the annual membership meeting which was held on September 1st. Please assist us by sending in your remittance of the enclosed membership dues and road maintenance fee as soon as possible. This will enable us to get the needed road maintenance done prior to winter. The Board of Directors appreciates your comments and suggestions as we start another year of handling the business for the association.

Sincerely,
Millie Hoekstra, HOLA Board of Directors Chairperson
HOLA Annual Member Meeting September 1, 2012, held at The
Barn on High Street, Rangeley

The minutes of the September 2011 meeting were accepted as submitted.

Treasurer’s Report:

Mike Moroney submitted a report indicating total liabilities and equity of $20,175.09 and net income of $9,024.58. The report was accepted as submitted.

Road Committee:

HOLA Road Commissioner’s Report 2011-2012 was a decided departure from our normal process of doing the roads. Due to weather conditions last fall, it was determined to do some of the work in the spring. I believe this worked to our advantage especially in the area of road topping.  Topping in the spring prevents the material from being plowed up during the winter season.  Once again all the roads were rock raked and graded. The following areas had topping added to them.

Entrance of The Lynn Way to lot 2E (6 loads)
The Lynn Way from the corner to 3H (Dick Moore’s-2 loads)
The Lynn Way to Harold Ross Road (10 loads)
Kendall Farm Trail from 17H to 14 H (7 loads)
Kendall Farm Trail from 14E to 12E (4 loads)
The Loop Road from 4 corners to the Y (2 loads)

In addition excavation work was done at the bottom of the Overlook Road and the upper portion of the Loop Road to help alleviate the water and runoff problems that usually occur in the spring.
The committee also purchased 50 bags of Calcium Chloride and applied them to the major roadways to help alleviate the summer dust. Brush and trees were cut along the roadways to help with
sight lines on the curves. We are investigating the possibility of mowing the sides of the roads; we had contacted a potential person but unfortunately after looking at the roadsides he decided that his equipment would not do the job.
We are in the last year of our 3-year plowing contract. Last winter was not very snowy but winter will soon be here again. I believe most of us are very satisfied with the work that has been done by our plowing contractor.
There will be some road work done this fall which will consist of grading and some topping to prepare the roads for winter. The extensive amount of ditching over the past few years has made
life easier for the plow drivers and helps greatly with the spring runoff.  Some of you will notice the washboard road surface. This is due to excessive speed and not engaging four wheel drive on the
hills. Please watch your speed and drive with caution.  I would like to personally give a big “Thank You” to Paul Ellis who has spent numerous hours on our roads and coordinating the work being done by the contractors. Without this dedication and volunteerism our expenses would be much greater.  The budget submitted for 2012-2013 season will stay the same.  This is allowing us to make necessary repairs and needed maintenance each year.
If you have any questions or concerns feel free to call me at 864-2963 or email me at les.hoekstra1@myfairpoint.net.
Respectfully submitted,

Les Hoekstra, HOLA Road Commissioner

Assessors Report:

Dick Moore advised that there will be no change in the property assessments for the next fiscal year. Lot’s with houses = $463 Undeveloped lots = $210

Nominating Committee Report:

Ken Young reported that the following terms expire this year – Paul Ellis, Dick Moore, Darlene Munson and Jeff Munson. Dick Moore and Darlene Munson decided not to run again. Bill Hayes is
unable to attend the Board Meetings and resigned his position on the Board and accepted a position on the Road Committee. Peggy Clark accepted a nomination to fill the vacant position.
Nominees are: Paul Ellis, Jeff Munson, Ann Arthurs, Ed Zambraski and Peggy Clark.
All nominees were elected by the membership.
Les Hoekstra was reelected to another term as Road Commissioner.

Waterfront Committee Report:

The Harbor was dredged on 8/30/2012 thanks to all Paul Ellis’s hard work with the DEP.
Our swim lines were cut on 8/29. Dave Douglas is going to see if he can put them back together. We need to replace the left swim buoy.
The number of boats in the harbor varies from full to spaces available. We had the most boats during the ice out fishing season. We are at the start of fall fishing. After this weekend, there will be a sign up sheet for boats.  Mary-Ellen Moroney, Harbormaster

Social Activities Report:

Sandy Young, Chairman advised that there will be a pot luck luncheon following the annual meeting at the barn.
A sign-up sheet was passed around for volunteers for committee assignments.

The next Annual Meeting of HOLA membership will be on August 31, 2013 at the Barn.

October 2011

Dear HOLA Members:
Another beautiful summer has come to an end—almost!! The Fall colors have arrived in all their splendor. Many of you have had time to enjoy the beauty of our region and relax and recharge
for the busyness of everyday life. We encourage all members to become involved in the association as much as possible. Check our website www.highlandsoverlook.org for additional information. Please email your email address to our Secretary, John at BigIMe@aol.com so we can connect with you more efficiently. If you would like to volunteer for a committee, please email me at  millie@youthunlimited.org before November 1. We soon will be doing some road maintenance to get ready for the winter months.  Please review the minutes of the annual membership meeting which was held on September 3rd. Please assist us by sending in your remittance of the enclosed membership dues and road maintenance fee as soon as possible. This will enable us to get the needed road maintenance done prior to winter. The Board of Directors appreciates your comments and suggestions as we start another year of handling the business for the association.
Sincerely,
Millie Hoekstra, HOLA Board of Directors Chairperson

HOLA Membership Annual Meeting Minutes:
September 3, 2011

The minutes of the 2010 Annual Membership
Meeting were approved as submitted.
Treasurer’s Report: Mike Moroney presented a Balance Sheet
indicating Total Liabilities and Equity of $16,284.13 and a
Profit and Loss Statement indicating a Net Income of
-$27,980.95.

Road Committee Report: Les Hoekstra, Road Commissioner
presented a written report:
I regret not being able to be at the annual meeting due to a wedding in Mass. Hopefully, this report will answer any questions or concerns you may have. And, as always, if you have any concerns at any time, feel free to call me or send an email.

Another year has sped quickly by and I believe our roads are in fairly good condition. Last year’s extensive ditching did alleviate most spring season problems as it allowed water to drain from the road beds. The extensive repair to Overlook Road has improved that section greatly. The mud holes seem to be removed. There have been some complaints regarding “joy riding” for ATV’s or snowmobiles. You may ride to the trails or to visit a HOLA neighbor. We do not want to prohibit all ATV and snowmobile use on our roads, so please adhere to the policy.

This fall we will be doing maintenance work on The Lynn Way as well as ditching on several roads. There are a few culverts that need to be replaced. We will add topping and do grading as
needed.

It was a very snowy winter and contractor handled all the plowing and sanding that was needed. The time and material plowing contract has been completed with Burgess Construction again for next year. It will be a 3 year contract of $40,000 cap each year.

Please let me know if you see any problem areas on your road that need to be addressed. We have more than 7 miles of roads and although I do drive them frequently, it is always helpful if
anyone that sees an issue will report it. The Road Committee report was accepted as submitted.

Assessors Report: Dick Moore advised that the assessment for roads would be the same as it was in Fiscal Year 2010/2011 which is $210 for a lot, $463 for a lot with a house and $45 for dues. The assessors report was accepted as submitted.

Nominating Committee Report: Ken Young nominated the following individuals for a three year term. Dave Arthurs, John Clark, TinaMarie Falasco, Sandy Young and Bill Hayes. The
nomination was seconded and approved by the Membership.

Les Hoekstra was nominated for another term as Road Commissioner and approved by the membership.

HOLA Roads Budget: The budget was approved as submitted.

Waterfront Committee Report: Mary-Ellen Moroney reported the following: The waterfront now has the new cribbing and new docks. We now have two more slips, so I have renumbered them.
Slip number 4 is the loading slip. Slip number 5 is a two week slip. We thank Paul Ellis for organizing the waterfront repairs.
M&H did the cribbing. A-One Builders made the docks. We thank Gary Wadsworth for hooking up the electricity. We now have power on both sides of the harbor.

Paul has set up the horseshoe pits. The swimming raft drifted into the harbor breaking the swim lines in June. These have been repaired by Burgess Construction.

We have had some trees drift into the harbor and on the shore from Tropical Storm Irene. Most boats were removed. I called those with canoes and kayaks that were not tied down. I have
also called Chester Wincowski, who has water in his boat, and left him a message.

We are checking on having the silt that has drifted into the harbor removed. The water at some of the slips was very low this summer.

We had more requests for kayak/canoe rack storage then we had space and will be adding a new rack for next season.

We seem to have been able to accommodate everyone this year. The Waterfront Committee is going to assign the slips in January. We also going to be assigning the spaces on the canoe and kayak
racks. The forms are sent out with the dues notice.

Please let me know when you have removed your boat from the harbor so that I can assign that slip to another member. If your boat has been out of the harbor for more than a week without
notification, it will be assumed that the slip is free for another person to use.

For those few whose lots do not have full waterfront rights the rights are $1,300 from now until May 2014. The cost for waterfront rights for a lot with no rights is $8,500 for the same time period.

Waterfront Committee report was approved as submitted.

Sandy Young informed everyone that there would be a pot luck picnic at the Barn following the meeting.

Sign-up sheets for new committee members were circulated.

One member mentioned that deep grass and weeds along Lynn Way was blocking the drivers view on a curve. Paul Ellis said he would take care of it.

The next Annual Membership Meeting will be on September 1,
2012 @ 11:00 AM @ the Barn.

October 2010

Dear HOLA Members:
Another beautiful summer has come to an end–almost-still warm for September. The Fall colors have arrived in all their splendor. Many of you have had time to enjoy the beauty of our
region and relax and recharge for the busyness of everyday life.
We encourage all members to become involved in the association as much as possible. Check our website www.highlandsoverlook.org for additional information. Please email your email address to John at BigIMe@aol.com so we can connect with you more efficiently. If you would like to volunteer for a committee, please email me at millie@youthunlimited.org before November 1. We soon will be doing some road maintenance to get ready for the winter months.  Please review the minutes of the annual membership meeting which was held on September 4th. Please assist us by sending in your remittance of the enclosed membership dues and road maintenance fee as soon as possible. This will enable us to get the needed road maintenance done prior to winter. The Board of Directors appreciates your comments and suggestions as we start another year of handling the business for the association.
Sincerely,
Millie Hoekstra, HOLA Board of Directors Chairperson

HOLA
Annual Membership Meeting
September 4, 2010

The minutes of the 2009 Membership Meeting were approved as submitted.

Treasurer’s Report:

Mike Moroney submitted a report indicated that HOLA has total liabilities & equity of $46,668.57 and a net income of $16,404.14. The report was accepted as submitted.

Waterfront Committee:

Mary Ellen Moroney reported the following: This year M&H put in cedar cribbing and filled it with #6 rock on the right hand side of the harbor. A-One Builders put in the docking in the spring.
We plan to replace the left hand side with cribbing this fall. A fall fishing sign up sheet has been posted on the bulletin board on the side of the shed. Please sign up if you plan to use the cove during the fall.

Solar lights were placed on the two swim buoys and the swim ropes have not been cut by boats for the first time during a summer season. Paul sealed one the swim buoys to keep it from
sinking.

The canoes and kayaks need to be removed by September 15, 2010 due to construction in the cove area. Please remove them so that they are not damaged when being moved by the tractor.

Sign up sheets for next year will be sent with the first dues bill. The slips will be assigned in January 2011. Please advise the Harbor Master if you will not be using your slip during the assigned period. If your boat is not docked at the slip during the time assigned; the slip may be assigned to another member.

Next season we are going to try wind socks on the docks to keep the seagulls from messing on the docks and seats. The Committee report was approved as submitted.

Long Range Planning Committee:

Please contact Millie regarding any future issues that should be addressed by this Committee.

Road Committee:

Report submitted by Les Hoekstra, Road Commissioner:

I regret not being able to be at the annual meeting due to my work schedule. Hopefully, this report will answer any questions or concerns you may have. And, as always, if you have any concerns at any time, feel free to call me or send an email.

Another year has sped quickly by and I believe our roads are in good condition. Last year’s extensive ditching did alleviate most spring season problems as it allowed water to drain from the roadbeds. One area of concern is the washboarding of the roadway in certain areas. This is mostly due to excessive speed and spinning of tires on the corners and hills. Many complaints have been received regarding “joy riding” of ATV’s on our roads.
The HOLA policy states: “HOLA roads are not to be used for “joy riding” for ATV’s or snowmobiles. You may ride to the trails or to visit a HOLA neighbor. We do not want to prohibit all ATV and
snowmobile use on our roads, so please adhere to the policy.

This fall we will be doing maintenance work on Barbara Lane as well as ditching and widening of the Upper Loop Road. We will add topping and do spot grading as needed. The Overlook Road is
scheduled for major reconstruction beginning just above the Haley residence for approximately 500 feet. This will include removing up to 2 feet of the present soil and replacing it with 12” of 6 minus rock, a layer of fabric, 6” of 3 minues gravel and 6” crushed gravel. This would allow water to drain under the roadbed and alleviate the problems of the past few years.

The time and material plowing contract has been completed with Burgess Construction again for next year. It will be a 3 year contract of $40,000 cap each year.

Rick LaVigne advised that he has been on the Road Committee for over a year and that there has been only one meeting and has not received any other information regarding the roads. He feels
that more communications needs to be used with members.

The Road Committee Report was accepted as submitted.

The road budget was approved as submitted for fiscal year 2010/2011.

Les Hoekstra was elected for a second term as Road Commissioner.

Assessors Report: Fees for 2010-2011 will remain the
same. Houses – $463 and $210 – lots. Dues $45

Nominations Committee:

The following individuals were elected to a three year term:

Millie Hoekstra, Barbara Meservey, Mary-Ellen Moroney, Mike Moroney Ana Wetherill, Ken Young and Dave Douglas.

Other Business:

It was asked – how many houses can be built on one lot. Paul Ellis said that only one house is allowed on a single lot. Land use may vary from town to town.

It was requested that HOLA contact the Maine Department of Transportation regarding repairs to the entrance to the two hills on property owned by the State of Maine.

Barbara Swan passed around a booklet on an invasive plant that has been found in the Highlands. She and Gerri Bush have removed some in the ditches. Please be aware and remove if you find this plant. Check out the display at the Rangeley Library for more information.

Dear
HOLA Members:
Another beautiful summer has come to an end (a little rainy in the beginning but a beautiful September). Many have had time to enjoy the beauty of our region and relax and recharge for the business of everyday life. We encourage all members to become involved in the association as much as possible.
Please email your email address to John at BigIMe@aol.com so we can connect with you more efficiently. If you would like to volunteer for a committee, please email me at millie@youthunlimited.org before November 1. We are in the process of doing some road maintenance to get ready for the winter months. Please review the minutes of the annual membership meeting which was held on September 5th. Please assist us by sending in your remittance of the enclosed membership dues and road maintenance fee as soon a”s possible.
This will enable us to get the needed road maintenance done prior to winter. The Board of Directors appreciates your comments and suggestions as we start another year of handling the business for the association.
Sincerely,

Millie Hoekstra, HOLA Board of Directors Chairperson

HOLA Annual Membership Meeting
Minutes, September 5, 2009

Millie Hoekstra opened the meeting with introductions of the Board of Directors and thanking them for serving this year and handling the business for the Association..

Social Activities Report, Treasurer’s report, Waterfront Committee report and Road Committee report were given by the Treasurer and Committee Chairs and the Road Commissioner. (see September 2009 Board Minutes on our website for details of the reports)

Treasurer’s Report:
Total liabilities & equity of $31,713.27 and net profit of $3,761.47.

The road assessments for the next fiscal year will be the same as last year, which is $210 per lot and $463 per lot with a house. This was approved by the membership.

Total Road Budget of $77,000 was approved by membership.

The following Board Members were reelected for a new three year term:

Paul Ellis, Dick Moore, Darlene Munson and Jeff Munson.
Les Hoekstra was elected to another one year term as Road
Commissioner.

Some concerns were raised regarding ATVs and access to the trail system. New signs will be posted. A reminder for all:
HOLA roads are to be used by members
only for access to the trail system or visit another HOLA
property.

Members are encouraged to visit our website for information/policies and news

www.highlandsoverlook.org. and/or email

millie@youthunlimited.org or call 207-864-2963 if you have a concern.

Next year’s Annual Meeting and pot luck luncheon will be on September 4, 2010 at 11:00 A.M.

Membership meeting adjourned at 11:55 AM.
Respectfully submitted, John Clark, Secretary
Reminder: all watercraft including canoes and kayaks must be removed from HOLA waterfront property by OCTOBER 1ST.

Board of Directors met briefly and elected officers for the
coming year:
John Clark…Secretary
MaryEllen Moroney….Vice Chairperson
Mike Moroney….Treasurer
Millie Hoekstra…Chairperson