We hope the following will answer your questions about these topics. If you have any other questions, please contact us at clubhouse1@meadowpointecdd.com

• CDD, Board of Supervisors, and Assessments
• Architectural Review: Remodeling and Painting
• Conservation Area
• Recycling
• Your Neighborhood
• Using MP Clubhouse and Recreation Facilities
• Parties/Rentals of the Clubhouse/Pool

 

CDD, Board of Supervisors, and Assessments

Question: What exactly is a CDD? What services are provided by the Meadow Pointe (I) CDD?

Answer: The CDD provides recreation facilities/programs; common area landscape maintenance/ irrigation; storm water retention pond maintenance; walls, fences, sidewalks and village entrance maintenance; streetlights; residential property trash collection; deed restriction enforcement; and architectural review for residential properties.

Question: How many supervisors are on the CDD, and how are members of the Board of Supervisors elected?

Answer: There are five supervisors on the CDD. Members are elected to the Board of Supervisors during the General Elections conducted by the Pasco County Supervisor of Elections in November of even numbered years. They are elected to four year terms. Two supervisors will be elected in 2010 and the three other supervisors in 2012.

Question: When does the Board of Supervisors meet? Can I attend the meetings?

Answer: The Board normally meets on the first and third Thursday of each month at 6:30 PM in the Meadow Pointe (I) clubhouse. Check the calendar for exact dates. Residents are welcome to attend the meetings!

Question: How does the CDD collect assessments? Is it part of my property taxes?

Answer: The CDD assessments are collected by the Pasco County Tax Collector along with other property taxes. Taxes are due March 31 of each year. Property Owners receive a discount of up to four percent if taxes are paid between November and February. Maximum discount is received if taxes/assessments are paid by November 30.

Question: How are CDD assessments determined? Who decides how much I have to pay?

Answer: Each year the Board of Supervisors, with the assistance of its District Manager and Operations Manager, develops a budget for the following fiscal year. The budget establishes what the District estimates will be spent and the amount of assessments required. The budget is adopted after a Budget Public Hearing that normally occurs during the first CDD meeting in September. Residents are welcome to attend.

Question: What does the CDD assessment consist of? What does the money pay for?

Answer: For residential and commercial properties, the assessment consists of an amount required to fund the Operations & Maintenance of the CDD and its facilities. This is referred to as the General Fund. The second component is the amount required to pay off the debt incurred when the CDD built the infrastructure (i.e. roads and storm water management system) and the recreation facilities. This debt is commonly referred to as the “A Bond.” Additionally, residential property owners pay additional amounts to cover the expenses of providing residential trash collection and enforcement of deed restrictions and conducting architectural review.

Question: I know all homeowners in Meadow Pointe must pay off the "A Bond." What is this A Bond?

Answer: The original (20 year) 1992 A Bond was taken out by the developer of Meadow Pointe CDD to pay for the infrastructure within the District like roads, sidewalks, walls, fences, underground utilities, etc. The original interest rate of the 1992 A Bond was 8.625%. The District was able to refinance this A Bond in 1999 and reduce the interest rate to 7%. The yearly cost to homeowners is $ 504 and this amount is part of the Meadow Pointe Assessment on the Pasco Tax Bill each November (final year of the A Bond is 2012).

Question: What will happen to my CDD assessment once the “A Bond” is paid off? Will it go down?

Answer: For most property owners, the total assessment will decrease; however, not by the amount of the “A Bond” assessment ($504 for residential property). For owners of property that have paid off their obligation under the “A Bond,” their total assessment will increase.

Question: Why won’t the assessment decrease by the amount of the “A Bond” payment once the Bond is paid off, and increase for property owners who paid their bond obligation early?

Answer: When the bonds were issued, the CDD was required to keep ten percent of the principal balance in reserve. This reserve has been drawn down as the principal balance decreased. Additionally, the CDD was required to collect more than required for each annual payment to ensure that there was always enough to make the payments even if some properties defaulted. As a result, the CDD always accumulated extra funds in the Debt Service Fund. These extra funds were transferred to the General Fund each year as the debt was paid down. This allowed the CDD to assess a lower amount for Operations & Maintenance (General Fund). However, once the Debt Service Fund is closed out, this transfer to the General Fund will no longer take place. As a result the General Fund assessment will have to increase to make up for that lost revenue.

Architectural Review: Remodeling and Painting

Question: I’m thinking of doing some remodeling and upgrading to my house. What improvements to my property require Architectural Review by the CDD?

Answer: Any new building, including sheds, and any modification to the exterior of existing buildings on residential lots within the CDD require review by the CDD prior to any work being performed. This includes screened enclosures, screened entryways, changes to doors and windows, painting, and shingles. When in doubt, contact the clubhouse for guidance. 973-1671

Question: I’d like to put up a new fence. Do I have to get Architectural Review for fences?

Answer: No, you don’t need Architectural Review to install a new fence or to change an existing fence. However, you still must comply with the requirements of your deed restrictions. For example, chain link fences are not allowed on residential properties in the CDD. Fences must not be placed where they will block access to easements. They may not be connected to walls that are maintained by the CDD. They may not be placed in the setback required by your deed restrictions. Generally, typical wood or vinyl fences are fine. Check paragraph 11 and 15 of your deed restrictions for detailed information. Remember, a permit must be obtained from Pasco County for fences.

Question: My family wants to get a pool/upgrade our current pool. Do I have to get Architectural Review for pools?

Answer: No, you don’t need Architectural Review for pools. However, pool cages (screened enclosures) do require review. Happy swimming!

Question: My mailbox is looking drab, and I’d like to freshen it up with a new coat of paint. Is there an easy way to get the right paint color?

Answer: Sure! The 2 approved mailbox post paint colors (Home Depot’s Behr #4670 & 4850—now available in quart cans) for mailbox posts can also be purchased at the Fitness Center office. Bring proof of Meadow Pointe I residency, $10, and a small container for the blue color.

Conservation Area

Question: I live on a conservation lot and growth from the conservation area is growing under my fence and invading my yard. Am I allowed to mow behind my fence to keep unwanted growth out of my yard?

Answer: South West Florida Water Management District (SWFWMD) permits MOWING BEHIND FENCES on conservation lots in Meadow Pointe. Residents living on conservation lots are allowed to mow or clear the area behind their fences (3-4 feet) to prevent encroachment of conservation vegetation.

Question: What do I do if I have tree branches growing over my property from the conservation area?

Answer: First, verify exactly where your property line is from your survey. You can cut branches that are growing over your property. If you believe a tree in a conservation area is a hazard to your property, contact the CDD Operations Manager, Keith Fisk, at 973-9671. He will investigate and work with the Southwest Florida Water Management District (SWFWMD) to resolve the problem.

Recycling/Trash

Question: I have some large trash items (mattresses, tree branches, furniture, etc.) How can I get rid of large trash items?

Answer: Waste Services allows six cans, bundles, or items for pick up on garbage days. Tree or shrub waste must be cut into 4-foot lengths and bundled with twine. Large or heavy items (mattresses, appliances, except TVs, exercise equipment) will be picked up by Waste Services for an extra fee on the first Thursday of each month. You must call them to make arrangements at 788-5556. You may also take large items to the East Pasco Transfer Station at 9636 Handcart Road. Call before going (352) 521-0500. Hazardous waste items are accepted every Wednesday and there is no charge for this service.

Question: Does Meadow Pointe offer recycling? How can I recycle my waste?

Answer: Meadow Pointe residents have several options to recycle.

• Newspapers. Meadow Pointe CDD has two newspaper recycling dumpsters, located near the basketball courts. These dumpsters are for NEWSPAPERS ONLY.
• Other paper products. Residents wishing to recycle other paper products (telephone books, magazines, cardboard, office paper, cereal boxes, etc.) can drop them off at the dumpster at Sand Pine Elementary.
• Glass & Plastic. Regular blue bag recycling is every other Wednesday (check the calendar). Items for recycling are #1 and #2 plastic, aluminum and metal cans, and unbroken glass. Purchase blue bags at grocery stores. REMEMBER to remove and throw away all screw caps from glass and plastic containers before recycling.
• Batteries cell phones & ink cartridges. Our schools collect these and receive cash rewards which go directly back to help our students. If you have spent batteries (AAA, AA, C, D), old cell phones, or used printer cartridges, consider donating them to the schools in our community, you’ll be helping both our schools and our landfills! **Now collecting batteries at MP1 clubhouse!**
• Electronics. Recycle those old TVs, computers, and other electronics that contain hazardous materials by dropping them off at the East Pasco Household Hazardous Waste Transfer Station at 9626 Handcart Road. Call (352) 521- 0500 for more information.

Your Neighborhood

Question: I notice that some of the streetlights around my neighborhood are out. Who can I call about a damaged or non-functioning street light pole? What do I do if I see a street light pole damaged or a light not working?

Answer: Contact Tampa Electric at 223-0800 or through their web site tampaelectric.com to report the problem. You will need the pole number on the tag, the location, and whether the light remains off/on or goes off and on intermittently.

Question: My electric flickers off then on. I get tired of resetting my electronics. Should this be happening?

Answer: According to a Tampa Electric representative, the instant off/on of the electric power is a safety response to protect against long electric outages. When a tree branch, bird or animal comes in contact with an electric line, the electric will go off and on. Note: If none of your neighbors are experiencing these outages, there may be a problem with your home electric. Notify Tampa Electric at 877-588-1010.

Question: Is there anything I can do about cars parked in the street?

Answer: Vehicles parked in the street are in violation of Pasco County Code, unless they have a County issued parking permit. Parking permits may be obtained from the Clubhouse. Other vehicles should be reported to the Pasco County Sheriff’s non-emergency number 929-1204.

Question: How do I report stray or threatening animals or owners who do not scoop up pet waste?

Answer: Call Pasco County Animal Control at 929-1212.

Question: What are the irrigation rules in effect in Pasco County?

Answer: Pasco potable (drinkable) watering rules

1. Residents may water lawns between midnight and 4 a.m. on their watering day.
2. Hand watering landscaping or using micro-irrigation can be done three days a week.
3. Washing cars or pressure washing at home is prohibited. Pressure Washing Companies are exempt.
4. Decorative fountains must be turned off.

Reclaimed water hours Info: 996-7341 or 800-368-2411 (ext. 8131, 8145, 8041)

Watering times: 12:01 am to 8:00 am or 6:00 pm to 11:59 pm

Addresses ending in:

• 0-1: Tuesday/Friday
• 2-3: Thursday/Sunday
• 4-5: Monday/Friday
• 6-7: Tuesday/ Saturday
• 8-9: Wednesday/Sunday
• no address: Friday

Also see the Pasco County watering restrictions website.

Question: My reclaim water box lid is broken and needs to be replaced. Who do I call?

Answer: The plastic Potable (drinkable) and Reclaimed (purple) water boxes and lids can be replaced free of charge if broken or missing. For more information, call Pasco County Utilities Services at 996-7341.

Question: The sidewalk in front of my house is cracked and needs to be repaired. Does the CDD pay for this repair?

Answer: Sidewalks within the Meadow Pointe villages belong to the residents, and residents are responsible for the repair and maintenance (not the District or County).

Question: During a thunderstorm, the rainwater would not flow into the storm sewer on my street and water backed up into my front yard. Who do I call about this problem?

Answer: Storm Sewers are the responsibility of Pasco County, if these sewers become plugged inside and will not allow storm water to flow to the pond system. Residents must make sure debris does not block the entrances to the storm sewers, however.

Question: I’m new to Florida. Do you have any advice for keeping my lawn looking nice?

Answer: Glad you asked! Our newsletter has great tips for caring for your lawn and garden throughout the year. Please take a look at our past newsletters here.

Using MP Clubhouse and Recreation Facilities

Question: What recreation facilities are included in Meadow Pointe?

Answer: Meadow Pointe is proud to offer 2 pools, tennis courts, basketball courts, playground, a clubhouse, recreation center with enclosed racquetball court and a larger fitness room, and—coming soon—a new splash pad. There is also a park in Pinedale village with a basketball court and playground.

Question: Can I reserve the tennis courts ahead of time?

Answer: Currently we do not take reservations for tennis courts, basketball courts, or fitness equipment. However, if you have been playing a long time and there are others waiting to use the facilities, we encourage you to be courteous and allow the next residents to play.

Question: Who is eligible to use Meadow Pointe (I) recreation facilities?

Answer: All property owners within Meadow Pointe (I), MP3, & MP4, residents of their properties and their guests may use the Meadow Pointe (I) facilities. This is because MP has a joint use agreement with MP3, and 4. Unfortunately, we have been unable to pursue a joint use agreement with MP2—so MP2 residents, owners, and guests, while welcome to use all of our facilities, will be charged the nonresident fees if they wish to use our facilities.

Question: We are all residents of Meadow Pointe community. Can Meadow Pointe (I) property owners, residents and their guests use the recreation facilities of the other MP CDDs?

Answer: Because we have a joint use agreements with fellow Meadow Pointe communities, our MP residents, owners, and their guests may use MP3 and MP4 facilities on an equal basis with the residents of those CDDs. MP2 currently allows MP (I) residents to use all their facilities except the fitness center, provided they have purchased an access card.

Parties/Rentals of the Clubhouse/Pool

Question: I’d like to have a party by the pool. Can I reserve the cabana area by the lower pool at Meadow Pointe (I)?

Answer: Unfortunately, no reservations are taken for the cabana. The cabana is available on a first come, first served basis. If no other group is using this area, your group is welcome to use it--after providing required information to clubhouse personnel. There is a limit of seven guests per resident. Gas grills located by the lap pool are also available on a first come, first served basis.

Question: I’d like to have a party in the clubhouse. How do I reserve the party/meeting room?

Answer: Stop by the clubhouse and fill out a MP I CDD Rental Request Form. You can check on availability for the date you want. You’ll need to bring two checks—one for the rental and one for the deposit. The check for the deposit will be returned to you after the party, provided there is no property damage and the venue is properly cleaned. Once the paperwork is in, the room can be reserved. The property owner/resident will be required to sign a clubhouse license agreement to reserve the room. Rules, fees, and occupancy restrictions are listed on the rental request form. The fee for reserving the clubhouse for a party is $35 for 4 hours, if the party (and the clean up!) is over by 8:30 pm. If you would prefer to reserve the room beyond 8:30 pm, the rate goes up to $75. Resident deposit is $100, non-resident deposit is $300. All events must terminate by 11:00 pm.

Question: How many people can the Clubhouse accommodate for a party? Is there a limit to the number of guests I can invite?

Answer: Yes! The limit is 45 people, per the Fire Code. Please respect the limit because safety is of paramount concern.

Question: Are there any rules for reserving a room, or for having a party in the clubhouse or at the pool?

Answer: You should know that alcoholic beverages are not allowed at the clubhouse or anywhere at the recreation facilities. We ask that the facility be cleaned after your party is over, and we are glad to show you where to find the broom and extra trash bags if you need some. If your party is at the pool, please respect other swimmers by not playing music too loudly, and being mindful of any children in your group.

Question: Is it all right if my Boy Scout/quilting/tutoring/yoga club meets in the clubhouse?

Answer: Check with the Clubhouse personnel. If there is a room available on the dates and times your group would like to meet, most likely it will be fine. The rules for free meeting rooms are that your group cannot charge members for attending, and please respect Clubhouse property.