Issue link: https://imageup.uberflip.com/i/1490338
| Four Seasons Hemet Herald | FEBRUARY 2023 | 7 As we open the 2023 calendar, many New Year resolutions come to mind: more exercise, eat healthily, the always dreadful – lose some weight, save some money, and read more. Or, maybe one of them could be "to get involved in something meaningful." If this item is in your list, you may consider participating in one of the many volunteer opportunities the Four Seasons community has to offer. Being new, I was moved by the same desire to get involved, so I joined the Landscape Committee. To be honest, at first I found myself immersed in an experience that was a bit overwhelming, and at the same time rewarding. I have participated in meetings, discussions, inspections, reports, budgets, research, homeowner's requests, and more. All initially pose a challenge, but then, as time passes, you realize that things start getting easier. In time, you find yourself surrounded by a group of experienced members with vast knowledge, who don't hesitate to address any questions or concerns you may have. In no time, I started thinking, "I can do this!" The work of the Landscape Committee to maintain the appearance of the landscape, trees, plants, and flowers plays an important role at Four Seasons, no doubt about it. Joining this committee gives a new vision and understanding of what is involved in keeping our landscaping in good appearance. You come to realize the things that we take for granted, that give us comfort and a sense of community, take time, care, preparation, and planning. As we begin this new year with its challenges: freezing winter, scorching summer heat, maybe drought, flooding, strong dry winds, or a threat of fires; the Landscape Committee continually strives to keep Four Seasons looking good. Maybe it's time you joined us! Landscape Committee Solar Installation Update This past year the Architectural Standards and Regulations were updated and approved by the Board of Directors. Every homeowner should have received a copy of the ASR (Architectural Standards and Regulations) and are responsible for complying with its contents. If you did not receive a copy, you can obtain one by contacting the front desk at The Lodge. Included within the updates, all new Solar installations must now include Solar Skirts around all panels, whether solid or ventilated. Besides providing a pleasing visual aesthetic appearance, Solar Skirts help prevent birds nesting underneath the panels, reduces debris like leaves to build up causing an unsafe fire hazard. In 2022, more homeowners within our community turned to solar for their energy needs. In fact, there were 39 applications for Solar Installations, which more than doubled over the previous year. Unfortunately, 11 of these applications were disapproved either from the initial application submission process or from the final inspection once the work had been completed. The most common reason for denial were that these projects did not meet the Architectural Standards and requirements within the community. A solution to this problem, would be to have the Homeowner, along with the contractor, schedule a meeting with Maria Donti, our Architectural Staff, prior to any plans being submitted or contract signed, to ensure that there is an understanding of the ASR requirements for this community prior to any submission. It is the homeowner's responsibility to ensure the work completed is in accordance with the approved application. If you are having problems getting your contractor or representative out to correct a problem, you can contact the Contractors State License Board for assistance at (562) 345-7600. Their mailing address is 12501 E. Imperial Hwy #600. Norwalk, CA 90650. Tips for Plan Submittal 1. Review the ARC Standards and Regulations pertaining to your particular project prior to submitting any plans. If you need a copy, please contact The Lodge front desk. 2. Current applications can be obtained at the front desk inside The Lodge or from Maria Donti. 3. DO NOT MAKE ANY CHANGES OR ALTERATIONS UNTIL YOU HAVE RECEIVED AN APPROVAL LETTER FROM THE ARC. If you are not sure if you need an application for your project, ALWAYS ASK FIRST. 4. The Homeowner, (NOT THE CONTRACTOR), is responsible for submitting the application and ensuring the work has been completed in accordance with the approved application. If you have any questions regarding these matters, you can call your Architectural Assistant Maria Donti at (951) 325-8188 or email (maria.donti@fsresidential.com). You can also schedule appointments as she may not be available to speak to you on a walk- in-basis. Architectural Review Committee