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From time to time it's important to review our history, which has been done over the years in our Board Messages. Knowing history allows us to make more informed choices about the future. It helps us understand our own identity and gives us the tools we need to be decent citizens. It should allow us to avoid mistakes of the past, but, alas, that doesn't always happen. In September, 2003, the Articles of Incorporation of K. Hovnanian's Four Seasons at Hemet Community Association, Inc. were certified by the Secretary of State of California. Among the Articles is the Davis- Stirling Act, which governs HOA's in California. Initially passed in 1985, the Act addresses nearly every aspect of an HOA's existence and operation. It is comprised of 11 chapters, which include topics such as Property Use and Maintenance, Finances, and Dispute Resolution and Enforcement. Because of Davis-Stirling, K. Hovnanian was able to create our HOA. Our first Board began in 2004. Consistent with the requirements in our Governing Documents, the Board of Directors may consist of no less than three and no more than seven members. At the outset and for several years, the Declarant (K. Hovnanian) appointed a majority of four members to the Board with the remaining three being elected by the HOA membership. Elections were held every two years until 2013. In 2010, for the first time, the homeowners held a majority of the seats (4-3). Since 2013, an "annual election" has been held every year, with either three or four Directors elected. This allows continuity and avoids a full Board election every two years. In 2014, the last K Hov appointee resigned, and the Board became all homeowners. Our 2022 Annual Election has concluded, and we now have a "new" Board. We thank all the candidates who were willing to volunteer their time to serve our community. In 2018, we defined standards for future Board members to meet, including a Values Statement. This statement includes 12 precepts that every Board member should follow. Among these are: transparency for decision making and governance, accountability for decisions and actions, and financial sustainability through responsible fiscal management. We will abide by these as we face the challenge of maintaining a balanced budget for 2023 and beyond. As we have mentioned in previous Board messages, costs to maintain our community continue to increase. In addition, as our assets age, they will require more repairs and possible replacement. One example is our sidewalks. Over time they require more maintenance, due to many factors such as age, weather, tree roots, etc. This work is important to provide a safe environment for all of us. Another example is our trees. When they were young, they required a minimum amount of care. We now must trim more often, resulting in additional expense. These are just two items that will necessitate ongoing expenditures. Over the years, we have been able to establish a strong reserve fund. This will help with repair and replacement of our major assets. Knowing the expected life span of these assets helps us forecast our future expenses. It is important to maintain a viable reserve fund as a cushion for future needs. It is essentially a savings account. As expenses increase, we may need to change our allocation to reserves. This will avoid a shortfall and keep a solid foundation. Financial security and financial stability will ensure our viability in the years ahead. Enjoy May and all it offers. Celebrate Mother's Day, and on Memorial Day, remember those who gave the ultimate sacrifice to protect the freedom we enjoy. Message from the Board of Directors 2 | Four Seasons Hemet Herald | MAY 2022 | Sincerely, and on behalf of your Board of Directors, Greg Rockvam, Cliff Post, Tony Criscenti, Roxy Snider, Fred Kydd, and Barbra Balser Jim Crase President

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