2020 General Meeting Board Presentation

The October 20th General Meeting was a huge success!  We had record turnout.  Thank you to everyone who voted and attended the zoom meeting! A copy of the Board’s presentation is available at the link below.   There was no increase in the Assessment rate, so the 2021 assessment fee will be $625. 

Meet Your 2021 SCFCA Board!

President - Jennifer Chapman

Vice President - Eric Birnbaum

Treasurer - Joe Jensen

Secretary – Jessica Koss

Section 1 Rep - Donna Olsen

Section 2 Rep – Jo Vonna Hill

Section 3W Rep – Julia Blasch

Section 3E Rep - Kristin Buffington

Section 4 Rep - Cathy Zito

Board Presentation click here

SCFCA 2021 Board Candidates’ Bios

Candidate for President

Jennifer Chapman

I am a native Houstonian and graduated from the University of Houston with a degree in Finance.  I served on the Board in the past, twice appointed to vacant positions and then elected at Vice President in 2019 and President in 2020.  One of my accomplishments while on the Board was initiating the bidding process on our landscaping contracts, which led to saving the Association $20,000/yr. Subsequently, I recognized the need for a policy that would require the periodic rebidding of our long-term contracts, which is now our Expenditure policy.  I believe the Board’s job should be to increase property values, use good business practices and improve the quality of life and sense of community for our members.  Please help me continue this good work by voting for me, Eric Birnbaum, Jessica Koss, Joe Jensen, Donna Olsen, JoVonna Hill, Kristin Buffington, Julia Blasch and Cathy Zito.

Candidates for Vice President

Eric Birnbaum

As a native Texan, I always dreamed of big trees and a neighborhood that welcomed all. I moved to SCF in October 2018 with my family and we absolutely love it. We chose SCF because of its peaceful, beautiful wooded lots, huge pool, tennis courts and lots of other amenities for young families. I currently serve as Vice President for SCFCA and would like to maintain the momentum we’ve gained from the last year with the consistent goal to improve our community. I find immense value in serving the community while providing an objective approach to key decisions for our community. I would like members to vote for me because I want to continue advocating for the future of SCFCA.

Victor Rollinson

We moved here in 1979 because of the forest, nearby elementary and family-safe neighborhood. All of these features are still inviting to those who visit. To keep them requires careful balancing between overbearing enforcement of restrictions and “anything goes” because it is difficult to gain compliance. I have an MBA in Accounting and have worked mostly for oil & gas companies in information systems. I previously served on the SCF HOA as Treasurer from April 2018 to December 2019.  Other volunteer service positions have been with Boy Scouts of America for 25 years and United Methodist churches in the area for 35 years.

Candidates for Secretary

Jessica Koss

My family has lived in Spring Creek Forest for 6 years and I have never been happier! I work as an accountant. I have assisted the social committee and served as the co-chair of concessions for our SCF Sharks swim team!  Along with DeAnna, I’ve been able to fulfill our passion for bringing residents together from ALL walks of life from new families to our beloved seniors. I feel the goal of a Board is to prepare the way for those who come after to be the best they possibly can. The needs of our neighborhood, like the world we live in, are ever-changing. We should always strive to attract future residents with the allure of trees, quiet streets, and the embrace of current residents. We are an imperfect people, and mistakes will be made… that is a guarantee. But, with a similar mindset and servant’s heart, we as a neighborhood can work through differences while striving for better. I hope to have the opportunity to serve my neighbors and do what is needed to ensure we continue to have a great place to live.

Sheron Thomen

Occupation:  Homemaker Outside Activities etc.:  I volunteer at a genealogy library and teach classes.  I am the Secretary of the 2019 and 2020 SCF Board and was on the AC Guidelines committee.  An asset due to my Board experience.  My attendance at SCF HOA meetings under 6 different presidents adds to my qualifications.  I volunteered at SCF events and workdays over my 33 years as a resident.  I worked on Deed violations prior to 2013 through 2018.  I learned how ACC works from Danny Stammer.  SCF is unique with its Olympic size pool, baby pool and big lots. The reality is that we are living in a covid world with many uncertainties ahead.  SCF must maintain our physical assets and keep costs/dues down for homeowners.  I am against spending on imprudent new projects in 2021.  One way to improve relationships is to take calls from SCF residents.  How the Board treats homeowners is important in our community.   Consider me for Secretary in 2021.

Candidates for Treasurer

James P. (Jim) Clancy, MBA and BSME

In the Navy, leadership is key to assignment and promotion: I advanced from Midshipmen to LCDR.  Leadership was demonstrated as the Commanding Officer of the YRBM20 (crew of 135) located on the Mekong River, Vietnam near Cambodia; an advance base for 30 combat boats, helicopters, a Mash unit, operational command staffs and others. My second demonstration of leadership was the founding and command of a combat ready Navy Reserve Diving Unit. In my 40 year business career, I led the development of several large production facilities with an aggregate value of $2 billion. I led the analysis and the teams for 12 acquisitions and 3 divestitures; each project required long term economics analysis, including projected operation and maintenance costs; analysis yielding a price, capital cost or a valuation number. As SCFCA President (2013 through 2015) SCFCA achieved a sound financial position; implemented a five year $200,000 plan to renovate assets (severely degraded after many years of neglect); developed 30  year planning; created a major maintenance reserve account; and reinvigorated the neglected deeds enforcement.  The net effect was SCF property values increased by 23% from 2014 to 2018 (Spring Creek Oaks increased by 10%).

Joseph (Joe) Jensen

I live off Rippling Hollow Drive and I am married with three kids.  My family moved here from MN via GA in 2015.  What I love about SCF is how it is secluded, has well-kept homes, a great pool, large trees, and the people are very friendly.  It is a great place to retire or raise a family. 2019 was my first year on the Board as a Section Rep and I learned a lot. I currently serve on the Board as Treasurer, volunteer on the pool committee and for events and both of my children are on the Sharks swim team.  I have many skills that I bring to the Board.  In my career, I have had extensive experience in labor relations, human resources, operations, lean projects, and cargo logistics.   I am running again this year to further the goals I have for keeping assessments low, while investing strategically in our common areas. 

Candidates for Section 1 Representative

Arthur (Art) Denzau

I am running for Section 1 Representative.  I have been a member of the Spring Creek Forest community for a little over 3 years now.  My wife, Noelle, and I moved here in July 2017.  When we were house hunting, we fell in love with this neighborhood immediately.  The mature trees, the variety of attractive houses, the well-kept lawns, and the waterfall out on Louetta all made it difficult to look anywhere else.  We were extremely fortunate to purchase this house on Moccasin Bend and have enjoyed every minute of living here.  Our daughter, Erica, also lives with us while she is continuing her schooling to work with autistic children.  I am a mechanical engineer by profession, but I am also quite the handyman and auto mechanic.  I have been doing my own home and auto repairs for most of my life.  I love working outdoors and on projects around the house.  I take great pride in everything I do and would love to put some of that pride and experience to work helping the community stay the beautiful place that it is.  I look forward to being the elected Section 1 Representative.  Thank you.

Donna Olsen

I’m a longtime resident of Spring Creek Forest. My husband and I moved here in 1978. We watched much of the subdivision being built.  We raised our 3 children here and appreciated the small town feel we had here for years. I served Harris County as a precinct chair and elections judge for almost 14 years. I would love to serve the Board again in 2021 to continue a fiscally conservative, safety motivated, cohesive civic association that cares about all residents. I would also like to help move forward with updated deeds restrictions that can be supported by current law.

Candidates for Section 2 Representative

Jo Vonna Hill

My husband, Marty, and I have lived in SCF since 1993 and raised four children in this beautiful neighborhood. I would like to serve on the 2021 Board to ensure our neighborhood maintains a friendly, respectful, and peaceful atmosphere that will continue to draw young families to raise children and live into their golden years.  As a board member, I will endeavor to work with fellow Board members to protect property values and encourage a strong sense of community through respectful communication, attention to the fiduciary responsibilities through prudent expenditures, and reasonable decisions in the implementation of laws and regulations governing the neighborhood. I believe SCF needs reasonable Board members and volunteers who are mindful and respectful of laws and regulations but are also in touch with the needs of the community. I hold senior certifications in Human Resources (SHRM-SCP & SPHR).  I work at the law firm, Pagel, Davis & Hill, PC where I provide litigation prevention and support in all aspects of employment practices by consulting with law firm clients. I have owned multiple businesses and have served in multiple leadership positions at HR Houston and as a previous SCF board member.

Judi Orrson

I have lived in Spring Creek Forest since 1987.  My son graduated from Klein High School.  SCF is one of the best neighborhoods in the area with desirable amenities and lowest HOA fee.  Our residents strive to maintain the beauty and integrity of our neighborhood and volunteer to keep it that way.  I currently serve as the Section 2 Representative and served as President of the Garden Club for 2 years.  I served on Deed Restrictions, Yard of the Month committee and concessions for the Sharks swim team.  I also volunteer with the USO at Bush Airport. I am a licensed realtor and also worked for area homebuilders for 20 years.  I served as President of the 1960 Chapter (now the Great NW Chapter) of the Women’s Council of Realtors and was honored as a past Realtor of the Year.  I am running for Section 2 Rep again to continue keeping SCF a desirable and fun place to live and raise a family.  It is important to maintain conservative leadership in SCF and I promise to strive to continue to accomplish that!  I would appreciate your vote.

Candidates for Section 3E Representative

Kristin Buffington 

My family and I love Spring Creek Forest! The quaint feel of the neighborhood and mix of all ages within the community make it a special place.  I have served on several past Boards as a Section Representative, worked on the playground and the pool, and served as social chair. I have and continue to be an invested resident. I am a teacher of the greatest 3rd-grade class ever! As a teacher, I have seen the impact that Covid has had on many families and would like to make Spring Creek Forest a haven for all our residents. While I do believe in being fiscally responsible, I feel that small changes can make a big difference.  I believe that we must take care of our current assets as we look toward the future of our neighborhood. 

Kathleen Melnikoff

I have lived in the Klein area for 45 years, 36 of which have been in SCF.  My husband and I raised his children in this neighborhood.  I believe that during these very difficult times the Board must work together with the community and within current budget restraints.  I also believe the community’s voice should be heard in deciding the direction that SCF takes.  My experience in managing mid-size companies taught me the ability to compromise and work as a team player.  I’m a firm believer in enforcing current deed restrictions. Many projects need to be addressed and I welcome the opportunity to serve on the Board as Section 3E representative to the benefit of the community as a whole. Your vote will be appreciated.

Candidates for Section 3W Representative

Julia Blasch

I have lived in SCF for 24 years. I am a people person and feel the best way to get things done is to work together. Sometimes that means putting our differences aside and doing what is best for the whole of the neighborhood in a kindly manner. My husband and I raised our three children here and love our little tree-filled neighborhood. My kids all went to Klein schools beginning with Ehrhardt, where I went back to teaching when my youngest entered kindergarten. Over the years I have been actively involved in Spring Creek Forest and the overall community to include being a member of the Strack School Board, a Scout Den Leader, SCF Sharks Swim Team Board member (many years), SCF Social Committee, various Church committees, and most recently served as a board member of the Klein High School Band until my youngest graduated two years ago. I want to continue to give back to our community, and I would love to stay on as the Section 3W Representative. I hope you will vote for me!

Richard Short

My name is Richard Short I am a parts manager for Volvo and Mack. I am retired US Army veteran.  I have lived in SCF for 1 year 7 months. I have been on the boards of 3 different HOA’s. I have held 3 different titles President, Vice President, and Board member for a total of 6 years. I believe in being frugal with the HOA’s money but, I also believe that preventive maintenance on all HOA’s assets is a must.  

Candidates for Section 4&5 Representative

Shellie Tingle-Esquivel

Greeting Neighbors! My name is Shellie Tingle-Esquivel and have lived in Spring Creek Forest subdivision for 11 ½ years with my husband Reymund and daughter Natalie. I am submitting my name for Section 4 & 5 Representative for the SCF subdivision. I have worked over 20 years in healthcare (emergency medicine) and served on several professional boards throughout my career. I am also a member of the prestigious Da Krewe Du Roux Mardi Gras Krewe benefiting El Mina Shriners in Galveston and the Ronald McDonald House. I believe there could be better communication and transparency around discussions with the board’s discussions and decisions. I would like to encourage more dialogue and participation through active committees and reduce the number of executive sessions recognizing the open meetings guidelines. I would appreciate your vote in the election and promise to keep our neighborhood a wonderful place to live!

Cathy Zito

I am running for Section 4&5 Representative and will continue to work on behalf of our residents to keep SCF a desirable community in which to live. I have served as a 2020 committee member for the ACC and lead the project with Sterling to finalize the AC Guidelines to be consistent with the current Deeds and Texas laws. I believe in the enforcement of our governing documents in a fair and consistent manner. I also believe in fiscal responsibility and the importance of maintaining SCF common areas and amenities. I am detail oriented, a team player, proven project leader and a good negotiator. These skill sets along with my life experience and homeownership knowledge will ensure my place as a contributing member of the SCF Board and the matters that come before the Board. My husband and I have lived in SCF for over 20 years and we love the oversized, tree filled lots and our wonderful neighbors.

Unexpected Legal Expenses

The Board’s fiscal responsibility and transparency to SCF residents mandates that we share with the community costs billed to the Association for expected and unexpected expenses. Unexpected additional legal expenses were necessitated by some actions and assertions against this Board by a few current and former Board and committee members.  SCF has incurred $3741.00 in legal fees (to date) associated with counsel, guidance and attorney cease and desist letters sent to these individuals. This Board will protect the Association from liability due to misinformation, harassment and intentional disruption to SCF Board policies and governance which could negatively affect all of SCF. Residents deserve and should expect its leaders to behave with integrity and to conduct the business of the Association professionally and responsibly for the benefit of SCF and all of its residents. If you have a concern about something in our community, please contact the Board or Sterling. Our contact information is on our website www.scfneighbors.com or in the newsletter.

 

What does Sterling do for SCF?

What Does Sterling Do For SCF?

The Spring Creek Forest Civic Association Board (Board) would like residents to understand the role of the management company, Sterling ASI (Sterling), in our neighborhood.  The Board is made up of unpaid homeowner volunteers, who are elected every year.  Most Board members, if not all, have never had any HOA experience.  A management company is critical to consistent and compliant operations from year to year.  HOA matters can be complex and with ever-changing laws regarding HOA management and homeowner rights, the Board believes that having Sterling is a critical part of our team and they are an asset to our community.

·        Professional Assistance: The Board maintains full and total control over the SCFCA (Association). Sterling is only a contracted service provider working under the Board’s direction. 

·        Cost Savings: Sterling was hired in June of 2018, at a savings of over $11,000 per year compared to the previous deed enforcement and administrative costs.  Also, since Sterling’s hire, they have saved our neighborhood over $19,000 per year in landscaping costs due to the vendor referrals that Sterling provided. Sterling has actually saved SCF more money than the cost of their own contract with us per year!  Because of Sterling’s experience with insured, bonded, and licensed vendors, they have been able to provide many excellent referrals for vendors with HOA experience such as electrical, outdoor lighting, sports and playground equipment, plumbing, security, pool, etc. 

·        Many Services:  In addition to saving the Association a lot of money, Sterling provides many additional services such as Administrative, Accounting, Property Management, Collections, Architectural and Deed Enforcement services, as well as, access to Sterling’s comprehensive reporting software, which allows Board members real-time access to Association data.  It would cost the Association considerably more money to hire these services separately.

·        Unbiased and Legal Enforcement: Because of the professional services that Sterling provides, SCF now has unbiased, consistent, and legally sound deed and architectural control enforcement and the most accurate and complete financials in its history.  Also, because Sterling is insured and bonded, the Association has reduced liability that would otherwise be incurred under self-management. 

·        Expertise: Sterling is the largest locally owned property management company in the Houston area.  They are a well-respected company with over 20 years of experience.  They manage over 200 neighborhoods.  They are accredited by the Community Associations Institute.  See their website for more information at www.sterlingasi.com.

Sterling does not provide legal counsel.  The Association has used the services of RMWBH for over 8 years.  One of RMWBH’s specialties is community association law and they are one of the most respected in the Houston area.  See their website for more information at www.rmwbh.com.

The Board recognizes that Sterling and the Board are not perfect and there can always be room for improvement.  If you have received a notice of a violation or delinquency and it is in error or you have a special circumstance, please contact Sterling at springcreekforest@sterlingasi.com.  The Board is always willing to work with homeowners.  The Board continues to work diligently to take the best care of this community for the benefit of all homeowners.  The real estate market is very competitive with many new neighborhoods being built in our area at a very fast pace.  We must all work together to keep Spring Creek Forest a beautiful, friendly, and desirable place in which to live and raise families.

SCFCA Directory

At this time, the SCFCA Board is unable to negotiate acceptable terms with volunteers for the SCFCA Directory project.  The SCFCA cannot authorize or endorse any directory that might be published without SCFCA Board approval.  At legal counsel’s recommendation, the Board voted to immediately stop the SCFCA Directory project.  If you have submitted any information related to this project, please be aware that your SCFCA Board has not received any tangible information regarding this directory.  The SCFCA will not be held  liable for any information that was disclosed or how it may be used.  We want to express our sincere apologies for any confusion this may have caused.   

 

SCFCA Communications

SCFCA Communications

The Board will not address Association business on social media sites, like Nextdoor.  Please see the SCF Communications policy on our website at www.scfneighbors.com under documents.  We have an Association approved Facebook page that is run by the social committee chair and it is for announcements only.  See Spring Creek Forest Happenings on Facebook to join.  The negative posts on social media about the SCFCA typically only spread propaganda, fear and disinformation.  Please do not assume that what you see posted on social media is accurate.  If you are concerned about something in SCF, please contact us directly.

If you wish to communicate with the Board, please reach out to a Board member or Sterling.  We represent you and want to meet your needs to the best of our abilities.  We only have a small amount of time to address resident concerns during our monthly Board meeting when we are trying to conduct Association business.  Board member and Sterling contact information can be found in the newsletter or on our website at www.scfneighbors.com. We welcome member feedback!

 

 

Candidates for the 2021 SCFCA Board

The Nominations Committee is taking nominations for candidates for the 2021 Board election to be held at the General Meeting on October 20th, 2020. If you would like to run for a Board position, please email Donna Olsen with the attached nomination form at section1@scfneighbors.com by September 15th to have your name on the ballot and bio in the newsletter. Write in candidates can be nominated at any time after that. click here for nomination form

SCFCA 2021 Budget Planning Meeting

Tuesday, August 11, 2020

7:00 PM  9:00 PM

The SCFCA Board will meet electronically on Tuesday, August 11th at 7pm to plan the 2021 budget. Members are welcome to attend the open session. The meeting is open to all SCF members.

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Agenda: 2021 Budget Planning

Pool Update

The pool has now been open for many weeks operating under the new COVID-19 guidelines and we have received a lot of valuable feedback from membership.  We’ve been working with the pool management company on all of these concerns.  The pool management company has provided a resource for members to provide feedback and complaints.  Signs have been posted around the pool with their number.  If you still need bands, please email pool@scfneighbors.com.  Pool hours for the rest of the summer are as follows:

Thru Aug 16th, the pool will be open its regular hours:

Tues-Thurs 12noon-9pm

Fri-Sat 12noon-10pm

Sun 1pm- 8pm

After Aug 16th, the pool will only be open on weekends and on Labor Day:

Fri 6pm-10pm

Sat 12noon-10pm

Sun 1pm-8pm

Labor Day: 12noon-8pm

 

SCFCA Regular Board Meeting

The SCFCA Board meets monthly to discuss SCF business. Members are welcome to attend the open session at 7:30pm. If you have a specific matter that needs the Board’s attention, please contact the Board President a week in advance at president@scfneighbors.com to be added to the agenda.

Executive Session (closed meeting) at 7pm , Open Session begins at 7:30pm

Meeting being held electronically via Zoom due to pandemic. Zoom login information is on the agenda.

Agenda: click here

4th of July Parade

Come join your neighbors and the Klein Fire Department to celebrate America’s freedom. We will meet at the clubhouse and the bike parade will start at 10:30am and it will be led by the Klein FD. Follow them to the ball field with your decorated bikes. A special prize will be given to the 3 best decorated bikes! SEE FACEBOOK PAGE FOR MORE INFORMATION -DeAnna Delgado, Social Chair at 832-435-5151 or social@scfneighbors.com

Class of 2020 Parade

Spring Creek Forest would like to honor the graduating high school and college seniors with a parade through the neighborhood! Graduates will ride on a special float and receive a swag bag. We will be gathering at the clubhouse parking lot on June 13th  at 11:00 a.m. Families of graduates are encouraged to participate in the parade and decorate your vehicles! SCF residents are welcome to decorate their yard with signs and banners to help celebrate.  In addition, we are seeking donations from individuals or businesses for swag bag items. 

Please let me know if your senior would like to participate by emailing social@scfneighbors.com, or call/text DeAnna Delgado at 832-435-5151.

Pool Wristband Distribution

SCF Residents,

The pool successfully opened this past weekend.  A special thanks to everyone who helped make it happen.  Opening day attendance on Saturday was a total of 237 patrons with a peak of 48 at one time at 2:00pm.  Going forward if anyone missed the pool band pick up hours you can still obtain your bands by following these steps:

  1. Navigate to http://www.scfneighbors.com/governing-documents

  2. Download, print and sign the following forms

    • Pool Policy

    • Waiver of Liability

  3. Email pool@scfneighbors.com 

    • Your home address

    • How many bands you need (large or small bands). Residents are only allowed bands for the people who actually live at that address. All others are considered visitors and must sign in. See visitor policy listed in the pool policy.

  4. Await email confirmation and place the signed forms on your front porch.

  5. The bands will be placed on your front porch within 24-48 hours

Email requests will be honored until the June 30th Regular Board Meeting.  After that date, residents can contact Sterling directly for bands.  Please remember pool bands will only be issued to members who have accounts in good standing.

The Spring Creek Forest Pool will be opening to residents on 5/23/2020

The SCFCA pool will be opening to residents on Saturday May 23rd.

Hours:

Sat 5/23 12noon-10pm

Sun 5/24 1pm-8pm

Mon 5/25 12noon-8pm

Tues-Wed 5/26-5/27 closed

Thurs 5/28 3:30pm -9pm

Regular summer hours will start on Friday, May 29th. 

Monday - closed for cleaning

Tues-Thur - 12noon to 9pm

Fri-Sat 12noon to 10pm

Sun 1pm to 8pm

In order to remain compliant with Governor Abbott's orders we will have some restrictions in place to ensure the safety or our members and lifeguards.  Details of the changes will be made available to members when pool bands are picked up.

Pool Band Distribution Dates:

(SCF Clubhouse)

· Sat 5/16 9am-10am

· Sun 5/17 9am-4pm

· Tues 5/19 12noon-4pm

· Thurs 5/21 12noon-4pm

· Friday 5/22 4pm-7pm

· Sat 5/23 12noon-3pm (at the pool)

If you weren’t able to get bands during these times, please email pool@scfneighbors.com.


SCFCA  Board of Directors

 

Playground and Tennis Courts Opening Today

The SCFCA playground and tennis courts are opening today.  Residents need to follow Governor Abbott’s guidelines on social distancing, small gatherings, hand washing, etc.  The outdoor restrooms are available for use and the codes for the bathrooms are in the newsletter.  The facilities are not being cleaned after each use, so residents are using the facilities at their own risk.