Improvement Fund FAQ’Äôs
These are our most common FAQ’Äôs from the Family Center Drop-ins, concerning the Devenger Place Special Assessment.
What happens when we make our goal of $150,000?
Since the clubhouse is our most urgent need, the current building will be torn down, and we will build a new one. Our goal is to begin construction this fall in order to have the new building operational by the next pool season. For this reason we need all home owners to pay their assessment on time, so that we can begin working earnestly on construction this fall.
Why can’Äôt the money collected by the tax district be used for some of these improvements?
The $50 per house collected by the special tax district is used for street lights, landscaping, security and maintenance of community property. Any excess can be put towards improvements of community property. The tax district has been working closely with the board and is in full support of this project. They have indicated they should be able to help with some of the costs of repaving and resurfacing as their budget allows. However, neither the tax district nor the Family Center has enough income for the new construction needed.
How are you making sure everyone pays their assessment?
We are communicating as much as possible though direct mailings, newsletters, Drop-Ins, the website and emails. We are also encouraging everyone to take ownership in talking to their neighbors and asking everyone to pay. It is imperative that every home owner understands the urgent need, and devastating loss it would be to our community to lose our Family Center. Our board is putting in countless hours trying to make this happen. PLEASE do your part.
What will happen if you don’Äôt raise enough money by September 5th?
We have very little choice but to keep campaigning until enough money is raised for the new building, and are looking into other methods if needed to make sure everyone pays. We are serious about this project, and will do what it takes to keep our community center active. The sad news is that without a new building for next season, we face the real possibility of not being able to operate our pool next year. The good news is that with the number of homes in this neighborhood, we should be able to make this goal. The amount of this one-time assessment is not high, considering the HOA dues many communities on Greenville's Eastside pay EVERY year and taking into account the positive impact this project will have on the property value of each home in the community.
Another option we can look at is phased approach for construction, making just the bathhouse operational and studding out the multipurpose room.
However, ALL money collected will be used entirely for this purpose only, and will not be spent on any other costs or projects. We will continue to keep the community informed of the status of this project and will give you opportunity for input on any plan changes.
Doesn’Äôt a new clubhouse only benefit pool members?
Not at all! A clubhouse will give this community a place to gather for meetings, socials and community classes, and a space to rent for your own parties. Yes it does include the bathhouse for the pool, which is a requirement for keeping the pool open. And although you may not choose to join the pool, the income from the pool pays for taxes and insurance on the Family Center property as well as utilities such as the lights for the basketball and tennis courts. Without this property, everyone stands to lose much more than $300 on their own property values as well.