GRIT Newsletter: March 2003

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The Sandia Heights Homeowners Association (SHHA) Board of Directors has approved new bylaws for the association after months of discussion and debate. The new bylaws are available on the SHHA website and at the SHHA office for review, with members set to vote on ratification at the upcoming annual meeting on June 7, 2003. The annual meeting will also involve the election of new board members, discussions on Cedar Hill Park plans, updates on the potential unification of Albuquerque and Bernalillo County, and a guest speaker session with Bernalillo County Commissioner Tim Cummins to discuss the city/county unification impact on Sandia Heights.

Additionally, a detailed discussion led by Mark Boslough, Traffic & Safety Committee Chair, delves into the topic of speed humps, addressing common arguments against them and providing rebuttals. The SHHA members have an upcoming annual meeting in June, where important decisions regarding board member elections and bylaws ratification are to be made. Architectural reviews, ACC report summaries, and the importance of architectural compliance are highlighted, emphasizing the unique characteristics and regulations within Sandia Heights. Keywords: bylaws ratification, annual meeting, board members election, architectural review, speed humps, Traffic & Safety Committee, Bernalillo County Commissioner, unification, SHHA membership, ACC report, property values.

Section 3 of the newsletter delves into the responsibilities of directors in more detail, emphasizing improved documentation and nominating committee procedures. A notable change includes allowing petition candidates and pre-electing new officers in April instead of following the usual 'Annual' Meeting. Proxy voting with specific guidelines is now permitted, while replacement of resigned or removed directors is codified. Standing committees with limited powers have been established to act for the full board, each required to have board-approved charters and report at every meeting. Additionally, the Executive Committee has expanded to include heads of the Architectural Control Committee and Covenant Support Committee, aiming to streamline efficiency despite budgetary constraints.

In another section, the newsletter discusses the need for diverse representation on the SHHA's Board of Directors and outlines the historical division of Sandia Heights into 12 districts to ensure varied interests are considered. In previous years, vacancies on the Board were filled by willing candidates, often resulting in districts being left unrepresented. The text stresses the importance of every district having a representative to address local concerns effectively. Anticipated actions by the Board will require input from all districts to refine restrictive covenants and address unresolved issues comprehensively. Keywords: Directors, Nominating Committee, Proxy Voting, Standing Committees, District Representation, Sandia Heights History, Board of Directors, Restrictive Covenants, Governance, Community Development.

Sandia Heights, a growing community initially lacking essential services, saw Sandia Properties stepping in to provide beyond what typical real estate developers offer. Over time, the Sandia Heights Homeowners Association (SHHA) gained independence, taking on more financial responsibilities from the Tram Company. Notably, the Tram Company's agreement to include SHHA dues in water bills significantly boosted available funds. Services such as covenant monitoring, snow removal, and road maintenance were gradually transitioned to Bernalillo County, further emphasizing community growth and development. The newsletter also highlighted a questionnaire seeking homeowner input on current covenants, reflecting a community-driven approach to governance and development.

Additionally, the newsletter covered various community initiatives and events. It mentioned the establishment of a thrift store by Greater Albuquerque Habitat for Humanity, emphasizing sustainability and community support. Furthermore, articles detailed efforts to enhance Cedar Hill Park, demonstrating collaborative community involvement in local projects. The document also delved into the city's history, reflecting on Albuquerque's past charm and unique character amid urban development. Keywords: Sandia Heights, SHHA, covenant, community development, Bernalillo County, neighborhood input, Habitat for Humanity, Cedar Hill Park, Albuquerque history, community initiatives, urban development.

May brings a variety of blooming trees, shrubs, succulents, perennials, bulbs, and annuals to Sandia Heights, as detailed in the newsletter. In addition to horticultural updates, the community discusses plans for a park at Cedar Hill Rd. and Tramway Blvd., with a focus on creating recreational spaces for different age groups while considering noise levels. Residents suggest alternatives like a small skateboard park and discuss the importance of incorporating grassy areas while mitigating goathead invasion in the park design.

Keywords: succulents, park design, annuals, blooming trees, bulbs, grassy area, shrubs, skateboard park, landscaping ideas., perennials, Wildflower Club, garden tour, community meeting, horticultural updates, water supplies, goathead invasion, Sandia Heights residents