Why do we need an attorney?
We only use the attorney when it is absolutely necessary. Legal issues require legal expertise . The ACHA Board is aware that the cost of legal assistance is expensive and as such we will only seek it when necessary. The covenants are a legal document and as such changing them requires the assistance of an attorney. Additionally, collections, filing liens, seeking court orders, etc. all require the assistance of an attorney. We have a fiduciary responsibility to act in the best interest of the entire community and not just a few vocal individuals.
Can we install speed humps or stop signs to slow traffic in our subdivision?
After checking with the village the answer is—The association cannot install our own removable speed humps due to village ordinances. If speed humps are to be put up–the only people that can put them in place are the village ….who would require specific criteria to be met. We do not have enough traffic on our streets to warrant speed humps.
Stop signs are put up in accordance with a federal mandate to help with right of way of vehicles at an intersection…not to slow down the flow of traffic.
What is the process for collection of late dues?
The process is a late notice will be sent at 30 days with a 1.5% ($2.25 as of 2024) late fee, and with an additional 1.5% of the dues amount added to the amount owed each month thereafter. At 100 days the delinquency will be referred to the ACHA attorney who corresponds with the delinquent homeowner and then legal action is taken if the dues continue to remain unpaid. If a delinquency is referred to the attorney for collection the homeowner will also incur the cost of legal fees in accordance with the ACHA covenants.
What is the Arbor Creek Homeowners Association?
An Illinois not-for-profit organization.
Who are the board members?
Please refer to the ACHOA Board page.
How were the Board members selected?
The current Board members were elected by the Association. Elections are held annually at the annual meeting. Each household receives one vote.
What are the Association responsibilities?
- Enforcing and administering the terms of the Covenants
- Establishing and approving the annual budget (including necessary reserves)
- Providing for the maintenance, repair, replanting and rehabilitation of all landscaping materials, fencing and signs located within the landscape and fence and sign easements as identified on the Final Plat
- Providing for the management, maintenance, repair and rehabilitation of the Drainage Easement Area(s) and Stormwater Facilities
- Establishing and collecting assessments to be paid by the Owners to defray the costs incurred by the Association in carrying out its duties and responsibilities.
What are the covenants?
The covenants are guidelines and rules that govern all homeowners of the Arbor Creek Subdivision. The covenants were put into place when the original annexation was approved and filed with the appropriate government bodies and as such are legally binding.
Where can I get a copy of the covenants?
You should have been given a copy when you closed on your home. If you did not, you can contact any board members to receive a copy. You can also find a copy by clicking here.
Am I required to pay an assessment?
Yes, as an Arbor Creek homeowner, you must pay your annual assessment. Each address within the subdivision is assessed an annual dues, which is not optional.
What is this money used for?
Some examples of how these funds are used:
- Landscaping and maintenance of common grounds such as the berm and storm water detention area
- Legal representation
- Insurance
- New Public PO box
- Meetings and notices
Do I need approval from the Board to build a fence?
Yes. You cannot erect a fence on your property without approval from the Board of Directors.
Do I need approval from the Board to build a deck?
Yes. You cannot erect a deck on your property without approval from the Board of Directors.
Do I need approval from the Board to build a shed?
According to the covenants, you CANNOT build a shed on your property.
Do I need approval from the Board to install a swimming pool?
Approval for swimming pools is not required.
Why doesn’t the Association take better care of the bike path?
Neither the bike path nor the land surrounding it belongs to the Association. The Plainfield Park District is responsible for maintenance of the bike path.