Howdy all!  I hope the month of April is off to a great start for everyone.  It’s great to see the neighborhood “come alive” once again and the yards are already starting to look fantastic.  Let’s make it a Spring to remember.

The board received several calls last month from concerned homeowners who had received a deed restriction letter in the mail.   I sensed the frustration and concern in the voices of those I spoke with and can empathize with those emotions.  This president also gets letters from time to time.  While it’s extremely important to do your part to keep your property and the community in peak shape, the board is cognizant that “life” can ruin many good intentions.  We realize how difficult it is to keep it together 100% of the time.  With that in mind, I want to share a few tidbits on deed violation letters and especially that first letter.   When you such a letter – please don’t panic.  The first letter is always just a “courtesy letter”.  It must be understood that the board and management company personnel are not aware if the matter has even been noted by the respective property owner.  This first notification is simply a way to communicate regarding a potential issue.  This letter will always give you 30 days to correct the violation and in most cases, that should be ample time.  However, if there are extenuating circumstances or if you disagree with the letter, please take the time to communicate with the board and management company on the issue.  It is important that communication be made prior to the second letter which contains the “209 language”.  It is that second letter when things begin to escalate and if we have not heard from you, we often must escalate the matter.  An active dialogue can often head off this escalation and help everyone work together to resolve the issue.  This is even more pertinent under the current “Harvey” environment.  The board is making a concerted effort to be extra reasonable with our flooded neighbors but don’t always know if an issue is flood-related or not (or if the home was subject to water damage).  You can contact the board or the management company via email, telephone or US Mail.  Our contact information is listed under the “contact page”.  If you’d prefer to contact the management company (PMG/Associa), they can be reached at 713-329-7100.  I can honestly share that in about ninety percent of the cases where a homeowner contested a letter or shared concerns, an amicable resolution was attained, and the homeowner walked away satisfied with the situation.

After taking a hiatus last year, the association is starting up Yard of the Month again in May 2018.   Not only do you get to display a sign and get bragging rights, but you also receive a home improvement gift card.  The program will run from May to August and then will officially conclude with the holiday lighting competition during December.   I’m hoping everyone will make a sincere effort to get those yards into YOTM shape in the coming months.  Good luck to all!

Sadly, the board has noted repeated vandalism to some of our signs and association property in the past few months.  The first reaction was that the vandalism was random, but as it continues to occur shortly after infrastructure is repaired, the board is beginning to wonder if we are being specifically targeted.    We have reported each of these incidents to the Harris County Precinct 4 Constable who is investigating this as a felony criminal mischief case.   I am hoping that this vandalism is originating from an external source and that we can identify the perpetrator soon.  If you have seen any suspicious behavior around the “Cypress Forest” signs, especially the large one on Cypress Oaks, or if you have any information regarding these repeated incidents, I encourage you to reach out to Lt. George Beck of Precinct 4 Constables.  He can be reached by calling 281-367-3472.  It is advisable that each resident program in this number to their phones as it rings the non-emergency dispatch line.  If you ever have an issue or see suspicious behavior, this number will get you in direct contact with a dispatcher who will send a deputy out quickly.  The board will discuss repairs of this vandalism at the upcoming board meeting, but resources for such repairs are thin given the many instances of this destructive behavior in such a short period.   Our priority is to catch and prosecute the person or persons responsible for this damage quickly.  This immature behavior is especially frustrating as it costs each of the residents in Cypress Forest treasured funds which could be used for other beautification projects.

“If you have seen any suspicious behavior around the “Cypress Forest” signs, especially the large one on Cypress Oaks, or if you have any information regarding these repeated incidents, I encourage you to reach out to Lt. George Beck of Precinct 4 Constables.  He can be reached by calling 281-367-3472.  It is advisable that each resident program in this number to their phones as it rings the non-emergency dispatch line.”

Some of our residents have inquired regarding the work being done in and around Seals Gully and other tributaries. This work is being conducted jointly by Harris County Flood Control and Precinct 4 Maintenance Division (Jack Cagle’s Office) to better accommodate runoff and prevent severe flooding during storms.  This dredging and widening of these gullies is a much-needed service and should bring some relief at the next large deluge.  I am told the projects should wind up prior to June 2018.  Hendricks Development, in conjunction with HC WCID #110 (MUD board) is working assiduously on the retention pond and dirt work for the private development along Cypress Oaks.  There have been some complaints regarding the amount of dirt blowing into the community and the County and regulatory agencies have been notified.  I am told the contractor will do a better job of spraying the land to keep dust blow to a minimum.  If it again becomes a problem, you can call Harris County Pollution Control at 713-920-2831.  If you are more comfortable calling a board member, we’d be happy to take your call and call the appropriate office on your behalf.  This project is slated to last another two or three months and then it is to be determined what will come of this private land.

Klein ISD recently released an update regarding the construction on Lemm Elementary and you can review the update here:  https://goo.gl/8q8A35   Based on the pace of the work and escalation of manpower, this editor feels like an August 2018 opening is well within expectations.  The budget for this rebuild is currently over $13MM and this renewed facility should not only provide a great campus for our children, but should help increase home values as well.

Our management company has yet once again changed their online portal.  I hope to be able to tell you that this is the last time we will experience change.  The new portal is called Town Sq (“Square”).  It can be accessed by directing your browser to https://app.townsq.io/login  At this page, you can set up new account access.  Once enrolled, you’ll find that you can pay your assessments online as well as view activity on your account.  Please feel free to call the management company or any board member if you have any questions about this online community portal or need help establishing an account.

Hurricane season is fast approaching.  In that vein, the state comptroller has planned its tax free weekend for hurricane preparation items for the weekend of April 28 – 30.  For more information on this program and what is included as tax free, you can browse to the official Comptroller’s page on the topic:  https://comptroller.texas.gov/taxes/publications/98-1017.php

I wish each and every one of my friends, neighbors and family members in the community a most fabulous month of April and a fantastic spring season.  Things are extremely busy in our region right now and I hope that when all of the dust settles, we’ll find a much better environment to call home.  Regardless, it is the homeowners and families within the community that make Cypress Forest so great.  Keep on rockin’ the community and keep up the great work!

Oh…and……Go Rockets!

Scott Hubert

Neighbor and President (and huge Rockets fan!)

Howdy all!  Or should I say ya’ll?!  It IS Houston Rodeo season after all and this neighbor is ready for some great concerts and “fried anything on a stick”.  Break out those boots and rodeo up – just take the antacid first and remember that no matter how many beers you’ve had, it is not appropriate to jump on the back of any FFA livestock!  The months seem to be flying by and it’s hard to believe that Spring Break will soon be upon us.  There is much going on within our community as well.  Seems everything kind of “bloomed” March 1^st. 

Lemm Elementary.  Sigh.  Our poor elementary school.  Many have wondered what was going on with this facility and why it has been shuttered for so long.   Klein ISD held a town hall last month and it was incredibly refreshing and informative for those in attendance.  Klein ISD representatives gave a synopsis of the many challenges that caused the significant delays in rebuilding.  These same representatives gave the community their assurance that they would do everything within their power to rebuild and reopen the facility prior to the start of the 2018-2019 school year.  The “new” Lemm Elementary will be an amazing place for education as the administration, architects and construction team are implementing significant changes to update the facilities.  You can refer to the renderings by clicking on this link:  https://v3.boardbook.org/Public/PublicItemDownload.aspx?ik=41627709  The budget for this rebuild is just a little more than $13MM and it should be an incredible environment for our children when done.  The contract was issued to ICI Constructors, a general contractor who has experience with Lemm, and work began mobilizing in earnest on March 2^nd.  Be patient with the construction teams and heavy equipment that will be in the area in the coming months and let’s cheer on this group in the hopes of an August completion.   I will do my best to update everyone if I learn any more information. 

While we are on the subject of school news………It is official!  Our intermediate school children have been rezoned to Strack Intermediate located near Cypresswood and Kuykehdahl.  Previously, all of the 6^th-8^th graders in our community, and those of Devonshire, Lakes of CF, CF Lakes, Estates and many others, were zoned to Schindewolf Intermediate.  The rezoning was made official at the February Klein ISD board meeting.  While Strack is an older facility (built in 1977), the curriculum and level of education is equal (or greater) than that of Schindewolf.  This rezoning will increase the teacher-to-student ratio to a peak level and Strack will be the lowest utilized intermediate facility in the district (per KISD analysis).  With the addition of our kiddos and a new principal at Strack this year, our students are going to roar!

You have probably noticed that work at the Hendricks Interest development sight have renewed in earnest.  This work is of particular concern after seeing the devastation that Hurricane Harvey left behind.  It has been confirmed that this work is a continuation of the master plan addressed at last year’s town hall meeting.  I have personally talked to Harris County Flood Control who said they are acutely aware of the progress on the jobsite and that they have reviewed and approved this work (subsequent to Harvey).  The earth that is being placed on the vacant land is being sourced solely from a retention pond being built just to the south of the waste water treatment plant (WWTP) and no new dirt or materials are to be deposited onto this land at this time.  There is no buyer or proposed buyer for the land at this time and this work is being performed to make this investment property more appeasing to potential buyers/developers.  We all recognize the anxiety this work causes for many of us and the uncertainty surrounding this project.  As promised from the origination, I will do my best to stay on top of plans and actions related to this land and convey what I know to each of you. 

As noted in previous The Chatter articles, the board did not feel we were being properly served by our community managers at PMG.  We put the management company on notice and they have assured the board, and more importantly you as vested neighbors, that things will improve in the coming months.  The management company immediately assigned us a new community manager.  Please join me in welcoming Krisi Miller.  Ms. Miller is expected to be a great asset to Cypress Forest as she has been in property management for nearly two decades.  She has also owned her own property management company in the past and her focus is centered on customer service.  You can reach Ms. Miller at 713-329-7158 (direct line) or a kmiller@pmghouston.com  The board hopes this change signifies an improvement in service to you and our community as we hold ourselves accountable to you and this neighborhood.  As always, we always invite you to contact any one of the board directly as it is the surest way to get immediate attention to any question or problem you might be experiencing. 

“At the last annual board meeting for Cypress Forest, a resident brought a great idea to the board’s attention….this happen(ed) almost immediately upon request.  It is for this exact reason that we welcome and encourage homeowners to attend the board meetings….the board does listen.”

At the last annual board meeting for Cypress Forest, a resident brought a great idea to the board’s attention in that our community needed “no outlet” signage on the cul-de-sac street signs.  I am happy to report that Harris County Precinct 4 Maintenance and Jack Cagle’s office made this happen almost immediately upon request.  These signs will help alleviate traffic on these dead-end streets and they look very nice perched up on top of the signs.  It is for this exact reason that we welcome and encourage homeowners to attend the board meetings.  They can be nauseatingly boring at times, but the board does listen and tries to follow through with any request you might have to the best of our abilities.  Our next meeting is June 4^th.   Please join us!  If you can’t attend a meeting or need action in the interim, we invite you to call or email one of us directly as you will get the same response and attention that you’d get from a face-to-face at the board meeting. 

Remember to “spring” your clocks forward on March 11^th at 2am.  Most will remember this.  However, many will forget that this is a great time to check the batteries and test your smoke detectors.    It is so vital to have working smoke detectors in your home and I make it a point to check mine each time the clocks change (twice a year).

Some other important dates to note are St. Patrick’s Day on March 17^th (the annual FM 1660 parade will be on March 11^th this year).  Klein ISD will be observing Spring Break from March 10^th to March 17^th.   The amazing and wonderful Easter egg hunt, hosted by HC WCID #110 at the Forest Oaks Park, will be held on March 24^th from noon to 2pm and this is an event you do not want to miss!  Finally, a day that I always like to observe:  International Day of Happiness Day is observed on March 20^th of this year!  Do something to make yourself happy and try to also spend a little effort in brightening someone else’s day. 

Many have asked about social media pages pertinent to our community.  The board has considered forming a Facebook page for Cypress Forest and might do this in the very near future.  In the meantime, there is Nextdoor.com which is a free forum for neighbors to discuss anything from missing dogs to local politics.  This author greatly enjoys the “Ask Spring” group on Facebook as it is extremely active and there is much good information on this closed group’s page.  Spring Happenings and Community Impact – both with print media and online publications – are great resources for news related to our region.  If you’d like to find out more about a Nextdoor invite, please reach out to me as I’d be happy to help you get onboarded to this website/application.  

I hate to sound like a broken record, but I will mention this for the second month.  The association has a record number of delinquent accounts outstanding.  Assessments were due January 10^th!  The board works very hard to keep assessments extremely competitive and low.  However, we also depend on collecting timely to provide the ability to pay necessary expenses and fund improvements.  Do note that we must turn over all accounts to the attorney in April and the costs of such collection efforts are legally charged to each respective account.  Please make sure you have paid your assessments and if there are extenuating circumstances as to why you cannot fund, please reach out to a board member to discuss.  We do accept credit cards, offer payment plans and other options if you are having trouble funding the assessments due. 

That’s a wrap for March!  Enjoy rodeo season, start planting those annuals, and do your best to dodge the pollen allergies this month.   The board joins me in wishing each of you a great day and a fantastic spring.  Please reach out to any one of us if we can ever be of assistance of any sort.  It is you that makes Cypress Forest an incredible place to live and we are grateful for your friendship and neighborly spirit.

Scott Hubert

Neighbor and President

Howdy all!  Welcome to the “month of love” and one that is going to fly by with only 28 days on the blocks.  I hope this newsletter finds all of our neighbors happy and healthy.  The healthy part is especially important at the moment given the particularly disastrous flu season we are enduring.  Any kissing done on February 14^th should be followed with a good swish of mouthwash!  There is much more going on this month versus the start of the year and I’ll get right to it. 

The board of Cypress Forest CAI, your homeowner’s association, met on February 5^th of this month.  It was a productive meeting and the board truly appreciates those of you who took the time to attend the meeting or who helped by sending in proxies.  The board wishes we could get more involvement from our neighbors as all as your voices do matter and the board values each and every bit of feedback.  We try to act on any action item suggested and always work to get your questions answered promptly.  We have posted the draft minutes to our website for your review.  Please take a minute or two to review as I think you will find the items noted beneficial.  Some key points to note:

• Three incumbent members of the board, Pat Barbier, Kevin Warren, and myself (Scott Hubert) were reelected for a new two-year term. The officer positions/titles remained the same as the board is a cohesive one and everyone chips in equally.   That and keeping the positions static makes letterhead and website postings much easier! 
• A valued neighbor who attended the meeting requested that the community petition the county to install “no outlet” signs atop of the street signs for the areas terminating in a cul-de-sac. The board is working on that in tandem with Harris County Precinct 4 and are hoping we can get this effected in the next few months. 
• The sign and lighting at Cypress Oaks has again been vandalized. The Harris County Constables are investigating this damage as it has happened several times in the recent past.  The board recognizes this sign and the landscaping around the sign need new upkeep and repair.  The board will be working with Hendricks Interest, who shares maintenance responsibilities with the board in this region, to get sign updated and lights replaced soon.  The board is looking at a different design and option for the lighting to transition to “downlighting” from ground-mounted fixtures. 
• Kevin Warren, a valued three-term board member, is working tirelessly with the new landscaper to get new and improved irrigation systems to all areas of Cypress Forest while also devising a plan to update the landscaping in all maintenance areas around our community. Big things are to come, and the board has allocated resources to help Kevin in this magnificent task.

There are many other pertinent items noted in the minutes and we hope you’ll take a moment or two to read the update as to all that is occurring within our community.  We try to update this website and The Chatter on a monthly basis, but also invite our residents to log-in to Nextdoor and Facebook regularly so as to read about and comment on current events affecting us all.    

Speaking of current events, there is a recent concern brewing about the status of Lemm Elementary and the ability of Klein ISD to rebuild and remediate in time for the start of the 2018-2019 school year.  The school district has communicated that it is doing all it can in order to get the school open in August 2018 but does share the “significant challenges” it faces in doing so.  The district is holding a town hall at the Klein Multipurpose building beginning at 6:30pm on February 15^th.  It should also be noted that the Klein ISD school board is at the conclusion of a rezoning project for the intermediate schools.  In all seven of the rezoning proposals, our community will have our intermediate school students going to Strack Intermediate (they were previously zoned to Schindewolf).  It is anticipated that the school board will allow current 6^th and 7^th grade students to “grandfather” in to Schindewolf if they provide their own transportation.  This proposal, sure to pass unanimously, is slated to be voted on at the next KISD board meeting on February 12^th.   I’ll keep everyone updated on this topic as it directly affects both our children’s education and our home values. 

“The board notes that there have been some problems with resident’s calls, concerns and complaints conveyed to our management company (PMG/Associa) being passed up to our attention.  We just recently became aware of these issues and are working with PMG to remedy this situation.  “

It was recently noted by residents that many of the roads in our community were being intentionally demolished and rebuilt.  This is in relation to the sewer rehab project being performed by our MUD district (Harris County WCID #110).  The crews seem to be doing a good job of cleaning up after themselves, but if you see something they missed or have questions about this project, feel free to give Jody Dellinger, representative for HC WCID #110, a quick phone call at 281-353-0998.  I’m to understand that this project will wrap up in the next few months.  

The board notes that there have been some problems with resident’s calls, concerns and complaints conveyed to our management company (PMG/Associa) being passed up to our attention.  We just recently became aware of these issues and are working with PMG to remedy this situation.  In the meantime, we encourage you to call one of the board members if you have questions, need a problem resolved, or would like to discuss happenings within Cypress Forest.  You can find each of our contact numbers on the information page and the president (me!) can always be reached at 832-663-0133.  If you do happen to call PMG and experience issues or your issue is not resolved within 24 hours, please help us all out by calling that number and allow us to step in and resolve the matter.  The board does pride itself on being responsive and accountable to each of you and the lack of proper communication by PMG/Associa is unacceptable and will be corrected quickly.  

Just a reminder to all that assessments ($250) were due on January 10, 2018.  The association currently has an unusually high number of delinquent accounts.   If you are finding the assessment difficult to fund, or if you have questions about your invoice, please reach out to a board member and we can help resolve this delinquency as partners.  The board makes a concerted effort to keep the assessments extremely competitive and low, yet this reduced amount means we must collect in a timely manner to keep cash flow and operations moving forward.  If you have not funded your account yet, please do so immediately. 

Some dates to note in the upcoming month of March:  Primary elections are to be held on March 6, 2018.  Locations for both early and regular voting can be found at www.harrisvotes.com  I recently learned that the Harris County Clerk intends to roll out new enrollment “tablets” (versus the old paper books) and so leave some extra time to get signed in and get to the booths.  Clocks “spring” forward  an hour on March 11, 2018.  On the morning of March 24^th, our water board (HC WCID #110) will be hosting an Easter egg hunt.  This guy has been to a few of these in the past and they are not to be missed if little ones are involved. 

Have a wonderful February neighbors.  Be sure to get that smooch on February 14^th.  Please do not hesitate to reach out to me or another board member if any of us can be of assistance in the coming month.  Make it a great one……

 Scott Hubert

 Neighbor and President

Howdy friends and neighbors!  Happy 2018 to everyone.  I hope that the burial of 2017 was a deep, quiet affair.   What a year; full of huge ups and deep lows.  The Cypress Forest board of directors wishes everyone a Happy New Year and we are as excited as you are about starting a fresh year. 

A reminder that assessments were sent out approximately 45 days ago.   The assessment rate for Cypress Forest is $250/annum for the 2017 year.  A cover letter was attached to the invoice explaining the $25 increase for 2018.  This assessment amount is due January 10^th, 2018.  Anything received after this date is subject to penalties and interest.  The association must follow our management contract as well as the statutes of Texas in how we administer these accounts.  The association does offer a payment plan.  We also can take payment via credit card on the online community portal hosted by PMG/Associa (our management company).  If you find you might have trouble paying the balance due, please reach out to PMG or a board member.  We would be happy to discuss a payment plan and can discuss any other options available to you at this time.  We also invite flood victims to contact us if you might have trouble funding your assessments for the current year.  If you’d like to learn how the association spends these assessments, the approved budget can be found on our website at www.cypressforest.net or the board would be happy to mail a copy out to anyone who requests this. 

Another reminder, property taxes become delinquent if paid after January 31^st.  While these taxes are not our jurisdiction, it’s always a good practice to remind each other about due dates.  We all get so busy nowadays.  For new homeowners or those who have recently turned 65, be certain to complete and submit your exemptions to the county.  The homestead exemption is due April 30^th of the year to which you have established a homestead.  Homestead exemption documents can be found on the Harris County Appraisal District website at www.hcad.org   I’d be happy to help answer questions or assist in any way if there are questions about how to complete these applications. 

“If you plan on making any changes to your home –  whether it be a major addition or simply laying a fresh coat of paint down –  please be sure to get approval prior to the project through your architectural control committee.  “

If you plan on making any changes to your home –  whether it be a major addition or simply laying a fresh coat of paint down –  please be sure to get approval prior to the project through your architectural control committee.  This includes items like fence replacement and tree removal.  The process is in place as it helps keep home values high and ensures that no project is installed contrary to the community covenants.  The board also contributes an honest effort to make you aware of problems that might hurt or hinder a property sales transaction at a later date.   Actions such as building on top of an easement or making unsafe improvements will often be noted contrary to approval.  The process of filing an application is quite simple.  A current application is located on the home page of this website (or one can be mailed to you upon request).   Complete that application and submit via US Mail to our management company along with a $25 check.  This fee does not go to the association but rather the management company to help offset their expense of internal ARC website.  It always helps if you email me a copy of the application to the association president so that he/she can ensure the management company processes this efficiently.   If you are not sure who to contact for the proper approval, please give me a quick call and I would be happy to lead you through the simple process of filing a modification request. 

The Cypress Forest CAI annual meeting will be held at the MUD board building (19023 Joanleigh Drive, Spring, Texas, 77388) on Monday, February 5, 2018, beginning at 6:30pm.  There will be refreshments for all and a great discussion.  The meetings usually last just over an hour and any and all concerns are welcomed.   If you cannot attend, please help the board and the community by completing a proxy which was mailed to everyone last month.  This proxy allows the board to make quorum and conduct business.  If you need a copy or if you have concerns that cannot be addressed at the meeting, feel free to reach out to myself or any other board member (names and contact are listed on the “about us” page).    

That’s it for this month.  Thankfully, a much less eventful month than previous ones and let’s hope it remains that way for the foreseeable future.  Again, the board wishes each of you a very Happy New Year and a prosperous, memorable 2018. 

Scott Hubert

Neighbor and President

Howdy all!  Break out the lights, the wreaths, the decorations and my personal favorite: the great-smelling candles!  The holidays are in full swing.   The board of Cypress Forest CAI wishes each of you a very joyful holiday season and hope that it is filled with family, laughter and some good eggnog. 

For those of you who are still cleaning up from Hurricane Harvey, it should be noted that the last county debris removal was completed in November.  It is my belief and hope that everyone who was affected has been able to muck out their home at this point.  Future debris is the responsibility of the contractors and homeowners that are still working in the many houses that were affected.  If you are one of those homeowners and find you need help with your home or debris removal, please contact any member of the board.  We’re committed to rebuilding Cypress Forest better than it was before this horrible storm.  We will do what we can to assist and make the tough job a little easier. 

After the storm, the association took a hiatus in sending any deed restriction letters to any homeowners.   That break was intended to be a ninety-day period, but the board extended this an extra 30 days based on the state of the community.  We will begin doing violation drives again in January.  However, know that we are sympathetic to those who experienced a loss in August and we will be extremely conservative in our review of those properties.  Roll-offs, construction debris, tools, parking issues – we understand all of these are part of rebuilding and you will not receive a letter in the first quarter of 2018 for such items.  For our neighbors who do receive a letter related to another deficiency, please know that the first letter is always a courtesy letter informing you of the violation.   Unlike many surrounding associations, our community does not charge a “penalty” or “fine” for such letters or violations.  We also invite you to call a board member if you disagree with any correspondence you might receive.  We are all human and while we have a job to do, we also realize we make mistakes or there can be extenuating circumstances.  We do appreciate your cooperation and help in keeping Cypress Forest in a condition we can all be proud of and in supporting the value of our homes.

“The Association sent out assessment letters to all property owners in early November.  The assessment is due January 10th.  There was a a letter attached to the front page of the assessment explaining the increase in assessments for 2018…”

The association sent out assessment letters to all property owners in early November.  If you have not yet received this invoice, please contact PMG (281-367-8137) or a board member (our numbers are on the contact us page).  The assessment is due January 10^th, with penalties and interest accruing beginning February 1, 2018.   There was a letter attached to the front page of the assessment explaining the increase in assessments for 2018 and we hope that everyone understands the need for such an adjustment.  At $250 per annum, Cypress Forest still remains one of the lowest assessments in the entire Houston region.  If for some reason you feel you cannot fund the annual assessment or if you are a flood victim, please reach out to a board member immediately and before the due date.   We will do our best, within the laws provided, to assist you and mitigate the penalty and fees for a late payment.  We do offer a payment plan and have other ways to work with you in paying the assessment. 

Speaking of payment plans, both Harris County and Klein ISD are offering FREE payment plans for property taxes for all citizens in 2018.  This is in response to the hardships caused by Hurricane Harvey.  It is my understanding that both taxing authorities will allow the taxes due to be paid in four equal monthly installments with no extra charges or interest added.  If you would like to learn more or take advantage of this arrangement, please contact the taxing authority directly.  Harris County can be reached at www.hctax.net and 713-274-8000.   Klein ISD tax office can be reached at https://kleintax.kleinisd.net/kleinisdtax/  or 832-249-4740.

For those in our community wondering how the remediation on Lemm is coming along, I am told the rebuilding is to start in early January.  The Klein School Board had to secure funds, approve architectural plans, and put the work out for bid.  I understand the rebuild is going to be a long process and let’s hope it finishes prior to the 2018-2019 school year start in August 2018.  Speaking of Klein ISD, a big change is coming for students graduating from Lemm in the future.  Klein ISD is in the process of rezoning and all seven rezone plans have Lemm graduates going to Strack Intermediate.  This is a big change as previously, all students advanced to Schindewolf Intermediate.  This change is expected to become official and finalized in February 2018 and will be effective with the 2018-2019 school year. 

Attention Cypress Forest animals!  We are happy to have you as a part of the Cypress Forest family.  We can relate to the fact that you like to take walks through the neighborhood.  Please remind your owner to pick up after you when you are out in public places.  Perhaps they can carry a bag with them to pick up the poo.  Thank you and happy trails!

Christmas decoration competition is to be judged on December 16^th!  The winner gets both bragging rights and a gift card.   Keep those lights shining bright and the holiday spirit nice and warm. 

The Board is currently working on its’ New Year resolutions and is excited about 2018!  Once again, we wish you and your family a very Happy Holiday and a prosperous New Year. . .

Scott Hubert

Neighbor and President

Howdy friends and neighbors.  November is upon us as are the holidays!  May it be a blessed time for each of you and your families. 

For those who are not aware, the association stayed all covenant enforcement and collections after Hurricane Harvey (refer to August The Chatter article).  However, we feel that things are (thankfully) getting back to a point where we need to get back to business as usual.   As such, the Cypress Forest CAI (“Association”), will begin reviewing the community and delinquent balances beginning December 1, 2017.   As is always the case, if you receive a delinquency letter or a violation notice and don’t agree to the contents or believe they were sent in error, please reach out one of the board members or our management company (PMG Houston).  The board realizes none of us is perfect and we always strive to keep harmony in our community by trying to stay reasonable.  We would be happy to discuss any notice you might receive in the hopes of working together to find a suitable remedy for you, our neighbors.  If you have a special situation related to the flood (debris, construction, parking issues, etc), please reach out to the board or management company immediately to make us aware of this matter.  We can provide waivers in many situations and would be apt to approve reasonable requests related to flood remediation. 

The board recently reviewed the budget for 2018 and the related assessment.  The board has recently hired a new landscape and maintenance company (thanks go to Kevin Warren who worked tirelessly to make this happen), and while their maintenance costs are competitive, they have also been contracted to update our entire irrigation systems and the landscaping at many of our common maintenance areas.   The board feels this will be advantageous to keeping home values on the incline and satisfying the desires of our community.  However, with this increase in operations comes a burden on the budget.   Not only will the landscaping be increasing, but most other categories in the operations section of our budget are increasing rapidly due to normal inflation.  As such, the board elected to increase assessments to $250 per year for all lots for 2018.  You should each receive an invoice in the mail no later than November 15^th.  If you have not received it by that time, please contact a board member or our management company (PMG Houston).   Note that this assessment is due January 10, 2018.  Any receipt beyond that date will be subject to penalty and interest (regardless of postmark date).  The association does accept credit card payments (with a small processing fee) and we also put a payment plan into effect several years ago.  If you are experiencing extenuating circumstances and cannot pay your assessment timely, please consider these options.  The board is limited by regulations and laws in how much we can “write off” and the flexibility we are allotted in waiving penalty and interest fees.   As a benchmark, the assessments for Cypress Forest CAI were $360/year at the inception of the association.  The assessment was reduced to $175 in 1999 and this would only be the third time that the board has approved an increase in the 18 years since.  Each of the board members is a resident of Cypress Forest and wants the best for our community.  We all work very hard to keep our assessments lower relative to any other community and fair for each of you. 

“As such, the board elected to increase assessments to $250 per year for all lots for 2018.  You should each receive an invoice in the mail no later than November 15^th. “

We’ve had a recent slate of petty car break-ins these past few weeks.  Most of the crimes involved thieves opening unlocked car doors and taking anything and everything from the passenger of neighbors’ vehicles.   Please be wary of strange activity and report anything suspicious.  See something, say something!  The best number to call to report a non-emergency crime or suspicious activity is 281-376-3472.  This rings directly to the dispatch center for Harris County Precinct 4 Constables and they are contracted in our area and will respond quickly.   To prevent such loss from occurring, please keep your vehicle locked when it is not occupied.  Consider deterrents such as security lights, alarms and surveillance cameras.   Know your neighbors and keep in touch so as to make sure their property is protected when they are out of town or working odd hours.  These are some things a burglar would not tell you, but that you need to consider in protecting your property (in the words of the crook):

• Of course, I look familiar. I was at your house last week delivering a package, mowing your lawn, painting your shutters or trying to sell you a product.  By the way, thanks for allowing me to use your restroom.  While I was in there, I unlatched the back window to make my return a little easier.  (be wary of who you allow into your house and always keep a close eye on them when they are inside)
• Nice boxes left out for the trash.  Those tell me you just bought a new 55” HDTV, a rifle, and a new Dell laptop.  (break down your boxes and try to stuff in your trash cans when possible)
• Yes, a nice of stack of newspapers from the past week. Oh, and your mail is hanging out of the mailbox; accumulated for quite some time.  You must be on a ski vacation.  I’ll just help myself to some of your “excess items” while you’re away.  (try to stop your mail when leaving town while having a neighbor watch your property and collect any newspapers from the lawn)
• Us crooks look for signs of weakness. Putting your groceries in the back of your car and leaving your purse in the open is our sign.  Fumbling with your umbrella and forgetting to lock your car door, another invitation.  In a hurry to get into the store or to your favorite sports event?  We might be watching.  We don’t take “bad weather” days and take advantage of the disadvantaged. 
• I know where you hide valuables. Sock drawers and medicine cabinets are our immediate “go to”.  (consider a good safe that can be bolted down for valuables or an unusual hiding spot – often a kid’s bedroom as it’s been proven home burglars rarely hit those rooms)
• We don’t like anything that makes our job hard. Alarms, cameras, lights, or even a bit of noise from a television or radio makes us consider another “hit”.  (use deterrents such as those listed and always consider leaving a television or radio on in the house when you leave)
• We also don’t like dogs…..any dogs. They hurt when they bite and even if they are skittish, they might get out when we break-in which means the neighbors might get suspicious.  (consider a dog for security)
• Sometimes, I dress up in a tie and carry a clipboard. I do my best to never look like a thief and am always polite when coming to your door.  (be cautious of door-to-door salesmen)
• We count on people in the neighborhood not alerting the police unless we cause a significant scene. We know there are often suspicious people in the neighborhood and people are too tired or too forgiving to alert the authorities.  (always call the police if you see something suspicious; allow the law enforcement to decide it the threat is a real one or perceived)
• An alarm is worthless to you and valuable to me if it is not set. I can see through most windows to determine if the car alarm is active or if you’ve forgotten to set your home alarm.  (never leave any alarm turned off if you are not occupying the vehicle or home)
• In this day of technology, I LOVE to use that stolen laptop I got last week to look on social media and see if I find someone out of town on vacation or a work trip. (try to keep your social media “private” and be careful when “blasting” news out of any trip you might be taking)
• It’s strange how many people leave their blinds and curtains open for me to see all of the contents of their home. This is especially nice during the Christmas season when I can peak through a window and see if the presents that I’m about to steal are wrapped and present yet.  (try to keep valuables out of site and blinds closed when not appropriate)
• Garages are so easy for me. I don’t have to break anything or even sneak around much.  I usually just walk in under the guise of asking about your gutters or unique vehicle.  When I find you’re not in the garage, I grab a few high-dollar tools and book it.  Most of the time, the homeowner never even knows I was there.  (secure your garage when you’re not working directly in or near this area)

These are just a few tips to help prevent the hard-working people in our community from becoming a victim to crime.  There are hundreds of others out there and I encourage each of you to take ten minutes to think about a proactive approach to preventing crime during the upcoming holiday season and beyond. 

Remember that Cypress Forest CAI hosts a Christmas decoration and lighting competition each year.  Bragging rights and $100 in gift cards is on the line and so I hope everyone will get those lights up.  We are going to be judging on Saturday, December 16^th (assuming weather cooperates). 

 As always, we hope you will contact a board member or our management company (PMG Houston) if there are questions, concerns or if we can be of help to you and your family.   We wish you a joyous holiday season and a great Turkey Day! 

Warmest Wishes,

Scott Hubert

 Neighbor and President