Spring is in the air!
The days are becoming longer and warmer, the trees are budding, the birds are coming back, and we will (hopefully) not have to deal with another snowstorm. As the seasons change and we set our sights on short-sleeved shirts and cook outs, we would like to remind you of a few things that will help keep life at Hellas running smoothly through the spring and summer.
Dispose of garbage and recyclables in the proper receptacles. Spring is the season for wildlife, and that includes rats, ants, and other animals that we would rather not see near our houses. To reduce our encounters with these critters—for our health and safety as well as for theirs—trash and recyclables may not be left outside on the decks, porches, or grass. In addition, be sure to keep the sliding panels on the sides of the garbage cans closed. This also means that you should clean up spilled birdseed around your feeders, and not allow standing water to accumulate on your deck or porch, as this provides habitat for mosquitoes to breed.
Clean up after your pets. The grass on our property belongs to everyone, and we will all enjoy it more if we do not have to worry about where we step. Please be respectful of your neighbors by promptly picking up after your pets.
Potted plants and hanging baskets are allowed on your back deck, but not on the grass. Starting May 1, you may also put potted plants and baskets on the stone and mulch in front of your Unit. The HOA just asks that you care for your plants throughout the season to keep them looking beautiful for everyone to enjoy. Note: May 1 is also the day that shovels, salt, and other winter equipment needs to come inside.
Recreational equipment is starting to come out of the basement. When you are done using it for the day please return it to your basement or store it on your back deck, not on the grass, mulch, or front porches. Bikes can also be kept on the racks provided by the HOA located on the side of building 322 nearest the dumpsters. Proper storage of recreational equipment will help keep our property tidy and make it easier for our landscapers to do their jobs.
Variance Requests. Spring is a great time to start thinking of those home improvement projects on your list! Because the exterior of your Unit is common property, any planned alterations to the appearance of the outside of your Unit must be approved by the Board before taking place. This includes changes that affect the siding, roof, decks, porches, and doors. Please note that the building foundations also belong to the HOA, and therefore the concrete floors of the basements may not be altered without prior permission.
Examples of projects that require an approved variance request are: expanding your back deck, installing a radon mitigation system, bathroom fan, or sump pump, and adding a storm door to your front door, to name a few. Blank variance request forms can be found on the Hellas Condominiums website. If you have any questions regarding projects that do and do not require an approved variance, or if you need help familiarizing yourself with the form, please reach out to a member of the Board and they would be happy to assist you.
Enjoy the changing weather, and always feel free to reach out to any of your Board members if you have questions or comments.
Sincerely,
The Hellas Board