PRESIDENT MESSAGE WINTER 2025-26

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Message from the President, Donna Fontaine

Winter 2025-26

Happy Holidays, Hidden Springs/Estates Residents,

We hope you and your families are enjoying a wonderful holiday season. We’d like to take a moment to update you on several important matters happening in our community.

Community Improvement Projects:

We have made exciting progress on neighborhood improvements.

1. Dr. Phillips Boulevard Planters

As mentioned in the last newsletter, we planned to install Podocarpus in the 11 planters along Dr. Phillips Boulevard. The old Crape Myrtles and Ligustrum were removed in September 2024 due to the risk of their roots damaging the walls.

This project involved clearing extensive weeds, repairing broken pipes and sprinkler lines, planting four Podocarpus in each planter, installing weed barrier, and finishing with pine bark mulch. It was a major undertaking—one that wouldn’t have been possible with only 50% homeowner participation.

We are incredibly grateful to an anonymous homeowner who donated $3,200 to make this project possible. Their generosity has made a significant difference. (Before and after photos below.)

2. Tree Trimming Around Retention Ponds

Our second project focused on trimming approximately 12 trees around the four retention ponds. Low branches had begun to obstruct the sidewalks, making it difficult for residents to walk through safely. We hired a professional company to handle the work at a cost of approximately $3,300. Thankfully, we were able to fund this needed maintenance. (Photos below.)

Many residents have expressed interest in bringing back our Orange County deputy. For 10 years we shared a deputy with Bay Springs, but when Bay Springs chose not to renew the contract, we were unable to fund the service alone. With just 50% of homeowners contributing annually, it is not financially feasible. However, if we reach 80% participation, it is very likely we could bring a deputy back. A dedicated deputy provides an important layer of safety and advocacy for our community.

Second reminder notices were mailed out during the second week of November. If you have not yet submitted your annual contribution, please consider doing so. Your support directly funds improvements, maintenance, and neighborhood safety initiatives that benefit us all.

Please take a look at the photos to see the results your contributions help make possible.

Thank you, and we wish you a safe and happy holiday season.

Sincerely,

Donna Fontaine

HOA President