HLA NEWS ARCHIVE
Mailbox Move Scheduled for Sunday 8/8
Posted 8/4/21
After consulting with the contractor that is building our new mailbox rack and the Stoddard/Marlow Post Office – we are expecting to be able to move our mailboxes back to the association entrance on Sunday 8/8.
The volunteers working on this project will do all they can to ensure all mailboxes make it to the new mailbox rack intact, but some mailboxes are in very rough shape. The association and post office are not taking responsibility for boxes that break and/or do not make the transition to the new mailbox rack if the box is not structurally sound at the start of this project.
If your mailbox needs to be replaced, now is the time to do so! If you are going to be replacing your mailbox, please email Chris (president@hiddenlakeassociation.com) to coordinate how to drop off your new box to the volunteer team that will be installing them on Sunday.
If you prefer to move your own mailbox, please email Chris (president@hiddenlakeassociation.com) to coordinate that. Please note – if the box isn’t moved on Sunday 8/8, you will not receive mail at the mailbox rack at town hall on Monday 8/9.
Posted 8/4/21
After consulting with the contractor that is building our new mailbox rack and the Stoddard/Marlow Post Office – we are expecting to be able to move our mailboxes back to the association entrance on Sunday 8/8.
The volunteers working on this project will do all they can to ensure all mailboxes make it to the new mailbox rack intact, but some mailboxes are in very rough shape. The association and post office are not taking responsibility for boxes that break and/or do not make the transition to the new mailbox rack if the box is not structurally sound at the start of this project.
If your mailbox needs to be replaced, now is the time to do so! If you are going to be replacing your mailbox, please email Chris (president@hiddenlakeassociation.com) to coordinate how to drop off your new box to the volunteer team that will be installing them on Sunday.
If you prefer to move your own mailbox, please email Chris (president@hiddenlakeassociation.com) to coordinate that. Please note – if the box isn’t moved on Sunday 8/8, you will not receive mail at the mailbox rack at town hall on Monday 8/9.
August Board Meeting Scheduled for August 10th
Posted 8/4/21
Our next Board Meeting is scheduled for Tuesday August 10th at 6:30pm and will be held at Rossi Hall.
If you would like to would like to propose a topic to be discussed, please reach out to HLA President Chris Vachon via e-mail: president@hiddenlakeassociation.com.
Posted 8/4/21
Our next Board Meeting is scheduled for Tuesday August 10th at 6:30pm and will be held at Rossi Hall.
If you would like to would like to propose a topic to be discussed, please reach out to HLA President Chris Vachon via e-mail: president@hiddenlakeassociation.com.
| 2021-08-10_board_agenda.pdf |
July Board Meeting Scheduled for July 13th
Posted 7/6/21
Our next Board Meeting is scheduled for Tuesday July 13th at 6:30pm and will be held at Rossi Hall.
If you would like to would like to propose a topic to be discussed, please reach out to HLA President Chris Vachon via e-mail: president@hiddenlakeassociation.com.
Posted 7/6/21
Our next Board Meeting is scheduled for Tuesday July 13th at 6:30pm and will be held at Rossi Hall.
If you would like to would like to propose a topic to be discussed, please reach out to HLA President Chris Vachon via e-mail: president@hiddenlakeassociation.com.
| 2021-07-13_board_agenda.pdf |
REMINDER - June Member Meeting Scheduled for June 26th
Posted 6/18/21
The HLA Board of Directors would like to remind everyone that our upcoming June Member Meeting is scheduled for Saturday June 26 at 9:00AM. This meeting will be held outside at Rossi Hall with a rain date of Sunday June 27. We hold two HLA Meetings each year - our June Member Meeting and our Annual Budget Meeting which is scheduled for Saturday August 28 at 9AM. We encourage all members to attend both meetings.
During the meeting we will be providing our normal updates on HLA finances, waterfront, recreation, and roads we have a few other important topics that we will be addressing at this meeting:
We will also be seeking input and guidance from all members on a few topics that have been presented to the board during the past year. Those include: Waterfront Policies and creating an Emergency Response Committee to more quickly respond to emergencies within the association.
If you have questions or other topics that you want to make sure are addressed during the meeting, please forward them to Secretary@Hiddenlakeassociation.com so they can be added to the agenda and sent to the appropriate Board Member.
Posted 6/18/21
The HLA Board of Directors would like to remind everyone that our upcoming June Member Meeting is scheduled for Saturday June 26 at 9:00AM. This meeting will be held outside at Rossi Hall with a rain date of Sunday June 27. We hold two HLA Meetings each year - our June Member Meeting and our Annual Budget Meeting which is scheduled for Saturday August 28 at 9AM. We encourage all members to attend both meetings.
During the meeting we will be providing our normal updates on HLA finances, waterfront, recreation, and roads we have a few other important topics that we will be addressing at this meeting:
- Board Elections - we have 4 board terms that are coming to an end in 2021 - President (2-year term), Vice-President (1-yr remaining on this term), Secretary (2-year term), and a Director (3-year term) role. If you are interested in running for one of these roles or have a nomination of someone in the community, please let us know by emailing Secretary@Hiddenlakeassociation.com. As a reminder - these are volunteer roles that require several hours of work each month and the required time flexes by season in the case of the Director role based on their responsibilities.
- Bylaws Revision Vote - at our June 2020 Drive-thru Member Meeting the Board and Bylaws Committee shared two versions of updated Bylaws that primarily addressed questions around real estate agents and their involvement on our Board of Directors. The intent was for these revisions to be voted on at our August 2020 Budget Meeting. At our August 2020 Budget meeting the decision was made to hold off on voting until the June 2021 Member Meeting. Since that time, the Bylaws Committee has reviewed, simplified, and strengthened the proposed revisions to include an Ethics Policy for Officers and Directors that applies to all HLA Board Members instead of specifically targeting only real estate agents. You can find a copy of the newly proposed bylaws attached below, on our website, and posted around the community (at the the entrance of the community, at the entrance to the Waterfront, and at the Pool House). We have also put together an information web page to provide more history and context on the proposed revisions since August 2019 - you can find that HERE (2021 PROPOSED BYLAWS REVISION).
We will also be seeking input and guidance from all members on a few topics that have been presented to the board during the past year. Those include: Waterfront Policies and creating an Emergency Response Committee to more quickly respond to emergencies within the association.
If you have questions or other topics that you want to make sure are addressed during the meeting, please forward them to Secretary@Hiddenlakeassociation.com so they can be added to the agenda and sent to the appropriate Board Member.
| 2021-06-26_member_meeting_agenda.pdf |
June Board Meeting Scheduled for June 8th
Posted 5/28/21, Agenda Added 6/2/21
Our next Board Meeting is scheduled for Tuesday June 8th at 6:30pm and will be held at Rossi Hall.
If you would like to would like to propose a topic to be discussed, please reach out to HLA Secretary Chris Vachon via e-mail: secretary@hiddenlakeassociation.com.
Posted 5/28/21, Agenda Added 6/2/21
Our next Board Meeting is scheduled for Tuesday June 8th at 6:30pm and will be held at Rossi Hall.
If you would like to would like to propose a topic to be discussed, please reach out to HLA Secretary Chris Vachon via e-mail: secretary@hiddenlakeassociation.com.
| 2021-06-08_board_agenda.pdf |
June Member Meeting Scheduled for June 26th
Posted 5/26/21
The HLA Board of Directors would like to remind everyone that our upcoming June Member Meeting is scheduled for Saturday June 26 at 9:00AM. This meeting will be held outside at Rossi Hall with a rain date of Sunday June 27. We hold two HLA Meetings each year - our June Member Meeting and our Annual Budget Meeting which is scheduled for Saturday August 28 at 9AM. We encourage all members to attend both meetings.
In addition to our normal updates on HLA finances, waterfront, recreation, and roads we have a few other important topics that we will be addressing at this meeting:
We will also be seeking input and guidance from all members on a few topics that have been presented to the board during the past year. Those include: Waterfront Policies and creating an Emergency Response Committee to more quickly respond to emergencies within the association.
If you have questions or other topics that you want to make sure are addressed during the meeting, please forward them to Secretary@Hiddenlakeassociation.com so they can be added to the agenda and sent to the appropriate Board Member.
Posted 5/26/21
The HLA Board of Directors would like to remind everyone that our upcoming June Member Meeting is scheduled for Saturday June 26 at 9:00AM. This meeting will be held outside at Rossi Hall with a rain date of Sunday June 27. We hold two HLA Meetings each year - our June Member Meeting and our Annual Budget Meeting which is scheduled for Saturday August 28 at 9AM. We encourage all members to attend both meetings.
In addition to our normal updates on HLA finances, waterfront, recreation, and roads we have a few other important topics that we will be addressing at this meeting:
- Board Elections - we have 3 board terms that are coming to an end in 2021 - President (2-year term), Secretary (2-year term), and a Director (3-year term) role. If you are interested in running for one of these roles or have a nomination of someone in the community, please let us know by emailing Secretary@Hiddenlakeassociation.com. As a reminder - these are volunteer roles that require several hours of work each month and the required time flexes by season in the case of the Director role based on their responsibilities.
- Bylaws Revision Vote - at our June 2020 Drive-thru Member Meeting the Board and Bylaws Committee shared two versions of updated Bylaws that primarily addressed questions around real estate agents and their involvement on our Board of Directors. The intent was for these revisions to be voted on at our August 2020 Budget Meeting. At our August 2020 Budget meeting the decision was made to hold off on voting until the June 2021 Member Meeting. Since that time, the Bylaws Committee has reviewed, simplified, and strengthened the proposed revisions to include an Ethics Policy for Officers and Directors that applies to all HLA Board Members instead of specifically targeting only real estate agents. You can find a copy of the newly proposed bylaws attached below, on our website, and posted around the community (at the the entrance of the community, at the entrance to the Waterfront, and at the Pool House). We have also put together an information web page to provide more history and context on the proposed revisions since August 2019 - you can find that HERE (2021 PROPOSED BYLAWS REVISION).
We will also be seeking input and guidance from all members on a few topics that have been presented to the board during the past year. Those include: Waterfront Policies and creating an Emergency Response Committee to more quickly respond to emergencies within the association.
If you have questions or other topics that you want to make sure are addressed during the meeting, please forward them to Secretary@Hiddenlakeassociation.com so they can be added to the agenda and sent to the appropriate Board Member.
| hla_bylaws_revision__2021_.pdf |
May Board Meeting Scheduled for May 11th
Posted 5/4/21
Our next Board Meeting is scheduled for Tuesday May 11th at 6:30pm. Due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, Board Meetings are currently being held via Skype.
If you would like to attend or would like to propose a topic to be discussed, please reach out to HLA President Mike Kelley via e-mail: president@hiddenlakeassociation.com.
Posted 5/4/21
Our next Board Meeting is scheduled for Tuesday May 11th at 6:30pm. Due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, Board Meetings are currently being held via Skype.
If you would like to attend or would like to propose a topic to be discussed, please reach out to HLA President Mike Kelley via e-mail: president@hiddenlakeassociation.com.
| 2021-05-11_hla_board_meeting_agenda.pdf |
4/28/21 - Camper/Temporary Seasonal Homes Reminder
Our Restrictive Covenants do not allow the use of trailer, modular, mobile, or otherwise temporary homes without the written permission of the HLA Board. Permission for campers or other "Temporary Seasonal Homes" is only granted to members who are actively working on and demonstrating progress towards building their permanent home and is granted only on a seasonal basis from May 1 through November 1 each year.
In the past, members seeking this permission have had to wait for the next HLA Board Meeting to be approved but in an effort to expedite this process, we have recently moved this process online. If you own lot in the HLA and would like to have permission to use a camper or other temporary seasonal home on your lot this summer while you actively building a permanent home, please e-mail Secretary@hiddenlakeassociation.com for more information.
Our Restrictive Covenants do not allow the use of trailer, modular, mobile, or otherwise temporary homes without the written permission of the HLA Board. Permission for campers or other "Temporary Seasonal Homes" is only granted to members who are actively working on and demonstrating progress towards building their permanent home and is granted only on a seasonal basis from May 1 through November 1 each year.
In the past, members seeking this permission have had to wait for the next HLA Board Meeting to be approved but in an effort to expedite this process, we have recently moved this process online. If you own lot in the HLA and would like to have permission to use a camper or other temporary seasonal home on your lot this summer while you actively building a permanent home, please e-mail Secretary@hiddenlakeassociation.com for more information.
4/15/21 - Plowing
Hi everyone - We are expected to get up to 10” of snow starting at midnight tonight. Because the roads have not yet firmed up from our mud season, and because the anticipated temperatures are above freezing for snow, our plowing contractor is recommending to not plow until we hit a large accumulation (4-5 inches) on the roads. They’re concerned if they plow continuously like they do in the winter, it will do damage to the roads.
Please be aware of this and plan accordingly, and email the road director at roaddirector@hiddenlakeassociation.com and/or any other board member to alert us if you feel a road is approaching impassable. We will ask the plowing company to dispatch a truck.
Be safe!
Hi everyone - We are expected to get up to 10” of snow starting at midnight tonight. Because the roads have not yet firmed up from our mud season, and because the anticipated temperatures are above freezing for snow, our plowing contractor is recommending to not plow until we hit a large accumulation (4-5 inches) on the roads. They’re concerned if they plow continuously like they do in the winter, it will do damage to the roads.
Please be aware of this and plan accordingly, and email the road director at roaddirector@hiddenlakeassociation.com and/or any other board member to alert us if you feel a road is approaching impassable. We will ask the plowing company to dispatch a truck.
Be safe!
4/14/21 - Boat Slip Info
We have been receiving a number of questions about Boat Slips for the upcoming season and wanted to share a few quick reminders:
If you have questions that are not addressed by the above info or the Waterfront page, please reach out to our Waterfront Director Andrea Young via e-mail: Waterfrontdirector@hiddenlakeassociation.com
We have been receiving a number of questions about Boat Slips for the upcoming season and wanted to share a few quick reminders:
- Boat Slips Renewals are tied to an on time paid assessment and paid boat slip fee. The due date for the assessment and boat slip fee is May 1.
- New Boat Slip Requests are tied to an on time paid assessment, paid boat slip fee, and availability of a slip. The due date for the assessment and boat slip fee is May 1. We will not know which (if any) slips are available until May 1st. It may take us a few days to process through payments and let you know if you have a slip for the upcoming season or if you will remain on the wait list.
- Additional information about Boat Slips can be found on the Waterfront page of this website.
If you have questions that are not addressed by the above info or the Waterfront page, please reach out to our Waterfront Director Andrea Young via e-mail: Waterfrontdirector@hiddenlakeassociation.com
4/6/21 - April Board Meeting Scheduled for April 13th
Our next Board Meeting is scheduled for Tuesday April 13th at 6:30pm. Due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, Board Meetings are currently being held via Skype.
If you would like to attend or would like to propose a topic to be discussed, please reach out to HLA President Mike Kelley via e-mail: president@hiddenlakeassociation.com.
Our next Board Meeting is scheduled for Tuesday April 13th at 6:30pm. Due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, Board Meetings are currently being held via Skype.
If you would like to attend or would like to propose a topic to be discussed, please reach out to HLA President Mike Kelley via e-mail: president@hiddenlakeassociation.com.
| 2021-04-13_board_agenda.pdf |
4/3/21 - Annual Mailing and Boat Slip Requests
The 2021 Annual Mailing is in the mail and should be landing our mailboxes any day now!
Enclosed in the annual mailing is the 2021 Boat Slip Request form. If you are looking to get a Boat Slip for the 2021 season, please submit this form along with your annual assessment on time (by 5/1/21). The Boat Slip Request form, rules, and information on the boat slip request process can also be found on the Waterfront page of this website.
If you have questions about boat slips, please reach out to Andrea via e-mail: waterfrontdirector@hiddenlakeassociation.com.
The 2021 Annual Mailing is in the mail and should be landing our mailboxes any day now!
Enclosed in the annual mailing is the 2021 Boat Slip Request form. If you are looking to get a Boat Slip for the 2021 season, please submit this form along with your annual assessment on time (by 5/1/21). The Boat Slip Request form, rules, and information on the boat slip request process can also be found on the Waterfront page of this website.
If you have questions about boat slips, please reach out to Andrea via e-mail: waterfrontdirector@hiddenlakeassociation.com.
3/2/21 - March Board Meeting Scheduled for March 9th
Our next Board Meeting is scheduled for Tuesday March 9th at 630pm. Due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, Board Meetings are currently being held via Skype.
If you would like to attend or would like to propose a topic to be discussed, please reach out to HLA President Mike Kelley via e-mail: president@hiddenlakeassociation.com.
Our next Board Meeting is scheduled for Tuesday March 9th at 630pm. Due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, Board Meetings are currently being held via Skype.
If you would like to attend or would like to propose a topic to be discussed, please reach out to HLA President Mike Kelley via e-mail: president@hiddenlakeassociation.com.
| 2021-03-09_board_agenda.pdf |
2/27/21 - Road Updates
The warmer temperatures and today's rain have created some slick road conditions - our plowing company is on the way to sand the roads.
On Monday road repairs will be done at the entrance of Kings Highway (right where it goes from paved to dirt). If there are other areas that need to be addressed or fixed, please let Mike (president@hiddenlakeassociation.com) or Bob (vicepresident@hiddenlakeassociation.com) know - they are temporarily coordinating any roads issues.
The warmer temperatures and today's rain have created some slick road conditions - our plowing company is on the way to sand the roads.
On Monday road repairs will be done at the entrance of Kings Highway (right where it goes from paved to dirt). If there are other areas that need to be addressed or fixed, please let Mike (president@hiddenlakeassociation.com) or Bob (vicepresident@hiddenlakeassociation.com) know - they are temporarily coordinating any roads issues.
2/12/21 - Internet / Broadband updates
The latest updates on the website indicate the northern section of King's Highway, Rice Brook, Red Coat, and Scenic could be added to the plan. Check www.stoddardnh.net for details.
As mentioned previously, the board did not find favorable financing to pay for the construction to extend the FiberCast offering to the entire neighborhood.
The areas that are in-scope currently are:
Kennedy Brook
Scenic Dr
King's Highway
Rice Brook
Red Coat
Tigola through Beaver Lake Dr.
The latest stimulus package(s) have additional CARES money which, if FiberCast is granted, could expand the construction to include most or all of the HLA neighborhood.
If you want an alternate solution for high-speed internet, I recently was contacted by Starlink (low orbit satellite internet). From their page:
During beta, users can expect to see data speeds vary from 50Mb/s to 150Mb/s and latency from 20ms to 40ms in most locations over the next several months as we enhance the Starlink system. There will also be brief periods of no connectivity at all.
As we launch more satellites, install more ground stations and improve our networking software, data speed, latency and uptime will improve dramatically.
Check out starlink.com for more information and to sign up. The install is $549 including S&H and the service is $99/mo.
The latest updates on the website indicate the northern section of King's Highway, Rice Brook, Red Coat, and Scenic could be added to the plan. Check www.stoddardnh.net for details.
As mentioned previously, the board did not find favorable financing to pay for the construction to extend the FiberCast offering to the entire neighborhood.
The areas that are in-scope currently are:
Kennedy Brook
Scenic Dr
King's Highway
Rice Brook
Red Coat
Tigola through Beaver Lake Dr.
The latest stimulus package(s) have additional CARES money which, if FiberCast is granted, could expand the construction to include most or all of the HLA neighborhood.
If you want an alternate solution for high-speed internet, I recently was contacted by Starlink (low orbit satellite internet). From their page:
During beta, users can expect to see data speeds vary from 50Mb/s to 150Mb/s and latency from 20ms to 40ms in most locations over the next several months as we enhance the Starlink system. There will also be brief periods of no connectivity at all.
As we launch more satellites, install more ground stations and improve our networking software, data speed, latency and uptime will improve dramatically.
Check out starlink.com for more information and to sign up. The install is $549 including S&H and the service is $99/mo.
2/11/21 - Volunteers Needed for the By-Laws Committee
Attention HLA members - the HLA is looking for members to join the By-Laws Committee.
Our association is governed by restrictive covenants and our by-laws help define how our community will operate, including our membership, the roles of our directors and officers, our meetings, elections, and budget. By-laws can be much more easily modified than our restrictive covenants and we are looking for volunteers to help us continue this work.
If you are interested in learning more about this committee or wish to join the committee, please contact HLA Secretary Chris Vachon at Secretary@hiddenlakeassociation.com.
Attention HLA members - the HLA is looking for members to join the By-Laws Committee.
Our association is governed by restrictive covenants and our by-laws help define how our community will operate, including our membership, the roles of our directors and officers, our meetings, elections, and budget. By-laws can be much more easily modified than our restrictive covenants and we are looking for volunteers to help us continue this work.
If you are interested in learning more about this committee or wish to join the committee, please contact HLA Secretary Chris Vachon at Secretary@hiddenlakeassociation.com.
2/2/21 - February Board Meeting
Our next Board Meeting is scheduled for Tuesday February 9th at 630pm. Due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, Board Meetings are currently being held via Skype.
If you would like to attend or would like to propose a topic to be discussed, please reach out to HLA President Mike Kelley via e-mail: president@hiddenlakeassociation.com.
Our next Board Meeting is scheduled for Tuesday February 9th at 630pm. Due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, Board Meetings are currently being held via Skype.
If you would like to attend or would like to propose a topic to be discussed, please reach out to HLA President Mike Kelley via e-mail: president@hiddenlakeassociation.com.
| 2021-02-09_board_agenda.pdf |
1/4/21 - Mail Delivery Hits a SNAFU
Hi all - like many of you, we have heard there have been issues with mail delivery the past few days. Today we were able to get some updates from both the post office and town hall. Here is what we know:
Mail is currently on hold and not being delivered to the mailboxes at the entrance to the association. This decision was made by the postmaster after the postal carrier was put in an unsafe situation when someone exiting the association blew past the stop signs and almost hit them last Wednesday. All mail is being held at the Marlow Post Office and can be picked up there during their open hours (Mon. to Fri. 7:45AM-1:15PM, 2:30PM-4:15PM and Sat 8:00AM-11:30AM
The town administrator is working with the bridge contractor to move the mailboxes to a temporary location where mail deliveries can resume in a safe way. The board has been advocating for the mailboxes to be moved within the association but they can only be moved to a public road (postal regulation) and the contractor deemed the options we proposed to be not viable. Based on what we learned this afternoon, it looks like the mailboxes will be temporarily moved to the town hall parking lot OR out onto route 123 by the library - the town administrator is working with the town selectmen to get a consensus on this decision. Once that consensus is gained, the contractor will move them ASAP and mail service will resume.
We know this is a frustrating situation - the board has been working on this issue for 11 months and unfortunately the combination of a local driver not obeying the stop signs and the post office not being clear about where they will allow mailboxes has forced some changes at the last minute. We apologize for the inconvenience and will update everyone both here and on our website when we get an update.
Hi all - like many of you, we have heard there have been issues with mail delivery the past few days. Today we were able to get some updates from both the post office and town hall. Here is what we know:
Mail is currently on hold and not being delivered to the mailboxes at the entrance to the association. This decision was made by the postmaster after the postal carrier was put in an unsafe situation when someone exiting the association blew past the stop signs and almost hit them last Wednesday. All mail is being held at the Marlow Post Office and can be picked up there during their open hours (Mon. to Fri. 7:45AM-1:15PM, 2:30PM-4:15PM and Sat 8:00AM-11:30AM
The town administrator is working with the bridge contractor to move the mailboxes to a temporary location where mail deliveries can resume in a safe way. The board has been advocating for the mailboxes to be moved within the association but they can only be moved to a public road (postal regulation) and the contractor deemed the options we proposed to be not viable. Based on what we learned this afternoon, it looks like the mailboxes will be temporarily moved to the town hall parking lot OR out onto route 123 by the library - the town administrator is working with the town selectmen to get a consensus on this decision. Once that consensus is gained, the contractor will move them ASAP and mail service will resume.
We know this is a frustrating situation - the board has been working on this issue for 11 months and unfortunately the combination of a local driver not obeying the stop signs and the post office not being clear about where they will allow mailboxes has forced some changes at the last minute. We apologize for the inconvenience and will update everyone both here and on our website when we get an update.
12/24/20 - Culvert Replacement Project Begins Soon
As you may have guessed from the signs that have gone up, the culvert replacement project on the town-owned portion of Kings Highway just before our development is about to begin!
Please note that heeding the stop signs is going to be even more important now, because there will be people working there most days, even if there's a little weather.
The crew will first be building a temporary bridge to the side of the existing road so we can travel back and forth. This will be a one-way/one-lane bridge, so please practice being polite and cooperative! It's expected to be 14 feet wide to allow for wider loads.
Then they'll replace the culverts with a prefabricated bridge.
The mailboxes will be relocated, when required, to the entrance of Kennedy Brook Drive.
Everyone should be receiving a letter in the mail about this. The project is due to start December 28. Happy holidays to everyone and - here's to an illness-free and weight-limit free New Year!
As you may have guessed from the signs that have gone up, the culvert replacement project on the town-owned portion of Kings Highway just before our development is about to begin!
Please note that heeding the stop signs is going to be even more important now, because there will be people working there most days, even if there's a little weather.
The crew will first be building a temporary bridge to the side of the existing road so we can travel back and forth. This will be a one-way/one-lane bridge, so please practice being polite and cooperative! It's expected to be 14 feet wide to allow for wider loads.
Then they'll replace the culverts with a prefabricated bridge.
The mailboxes will be relocated, when required, to the entrance of Kennedy Brook Drive.
Everyone should be receiving a letter in the mail about this. The project is due to start December 28. Happy holidays to everyone and - here's to an illness-free and weight-limit free New Year!
Stoddard Food Pantry
The fire station in Stoddard hosts a Food Pantry from 9a to 12p every Saturday. Each person will receive a care package of food. If you do not have the means to travel and pick up please contact the board and we will make arrangements to have it delivered to you.
The fire station in Stoddard hosts a Food Pantry from 9a to 12p every Saturday. Each person will receive a care package of food. If you do not have the means to travel and pick up please contact the board and we will make arrangements to have it delivered to you.
Support a Local Veteran
A local veteran is in need of help. Here is the GoFundMe for Jon Hicks . The GoFundMe has a link to the Sentinel article about him.
A local veteran is in need of help. Here is the GoFundMe for Jon Hicks . The GoFundMe has a link to the Sentinel article about him.
11/2/20 - Fiber Internet Updates
The latest updates on the website indicate the northern section of King's Highway, Rice Brook, Red Coat, and Scenic could be added to the plan. Check www.stoddardnh.net for details.
Broadband internet update:
In order to get the monthly payment to be reasonable for the association, we need real estate as collateral. Even then, we're looking at needing approximately 150 subscribers to cover the monthly payment on a loan. So currently, we are exploring other avenues. The latest update from Fibercast indicates Scenic Dr and Red Coat, as well as King's highway until it hits North Hidden Lake are likely to be covered. There is work right now to extend the CARES act through 2021, which will open the window to apply for additional funds, which could solve the construction problem.
Prior updates:
As you have seen, the construction for the FiberCast fiber internet project has started. The updates for our area and the details of their fiber installation are on www.stoddardnh.net .
Some FAQ answers for you:
Q: Is all of the HLA in-scope?
A: Not yet, but we are working on it. There is a substantial investment needed to have infrastructure relocated, or new poles installed in order to service all of the HLA neighborhood. The construction cost is $215K. We are working with FiberCast on options to handle this, and paperwork so that we can obtain funding / loan from a bank. The most likely scenario is the association pays part or all of the cost with a loan, and FiberCast customers pay a small $5 - $10 fee per bill that goes directly towards the loan until it is paid off.
Q: Why is Nelson included in the plan if the grant was for Stoddard?
A: FiberCast won multiple bids. One bid is for "Stoddard" between Rt 9 and 10 along 123, and a separate bid they were awarded takes them down to Munsonville.
Q: When can I sign up?
A: Now - the pre-order form is available on the website referenced above.
Q: Who should I ask about HLA specific internet questions?
A: For now, please direct your questions to president@hiddenlakeassociation.com - I do not pretend to have all the answers, but FiberCast has asked if we have a way to filter some of the inquiries, it will free up some of their staff that are working 7 days a week to get this project done before year end. Therefore, please send them in email; if I don't know the answer, I'll try to get it the next time I speak with the lead engineer and post answers for everyone.
The latest updates on the website indicate the northern section of King's Highway, Rice Brook, Red Coat, and Scenic could be added to the plan. Check www.stoddardnh.net for details.
Broadband internet update:
In order to get the monthly payment to be reasonable for the association, we need real estate as collateral. Even then, we're looking at needing approximately 150 subscribers to cover the monthly payment on a loan. So currently, we are exploring other avenues. The latest update from Fibercast indicates Scenic Dr and Red Coat, as well as King's highway until it hits North Hidden Lake are likely to be covered. There is work right now to extend the CARES act through 2021, which will open the window to apply for additional funds, which could solve the construction problem.
Prior updates:
As you have seen, the construction for the FiberCast fiber internet project has started. The updates for our area and the details of their fiber installation are on www.stoddardnh.net .
Some FAQ answers for you:
Q: Is all of the HLA in-scope?
A: Not yet, but we are working on it. There is a substantial investment needed to have infrastructure relocated, or new poles installed in order to service all of the HLA neighborhood. The construction cost is $215K. We are working with FiberCast on options to handle this, and paperwork so that we can obtain funding / loan from a bank. The most likely scenario is the association pays part or all of the cost with a loan, and FiberCast customers pay a small $5 - $10 fee per bill that goes directly towards the loan until it is paid off.
Q: Why is Nelson included in the plan if the grant was for Stoddard?
A: FiberCast won multiple bids. One bid is for "Stoddard" between Rt 9 and 10 along 123, and a separate bid they were awarded takes them down to Munsonville.
Q: When can I sign up?
A: Now - the pre-order form is available on the website referenced above.
Q: Who should I ask about HLA specific internet questions?
A: For now, please direct your questions to president@hiddenlakeassociation.com - I do not pretend to have all the answers, but FiberCast has asked if we have a way to filter some of the inquiries, it will free up some of their staff that are working 7 days a week to get this project done before year end. Therefore, please send them in email; if I don't know the answer, I'll try to get it the next time I speak with the lead engineer and post answers for everyone.
9/17/2020 - Culvert Replacement Update
As many of you know, the state has ordered the replacement of the culverts at the mailboxes, and there has been a 10-ton weight limit there for some time (excluding fuel). According to the town manager, the replacement project has been approved for expedited permitting, and the town is currently waiting for a permit to work in the water after October 1. So, this is progress! We'll continue to share updates as we get them from the town.
As many of you know, the state has ordered the replacement of the culverts at the mailboxes, and there has been a 10-ton weight limit there for some time (excluding fuel). According to the town manager, the replacement project has been approved for expedited permitting, and the town is currently waiting for a permit to work in the water after October 1. So, this is progress! We'll continue to share updates as we get them from the town.
Budget Meeting Moved to Rain Date, Sunday August 30
The HLA Budget meeting will be on August 30, 2020 at 9AM. It will be outdoors by the waterfront because of COVID-19. Proposed Budget and meeting agenda attached below.
Website updates: Corrected some missing minutes and fixed links to minutes. 2020 General meeting and board minutes should be accessible now.
High speed fiber internet may be coming to town!
Check out www.stoddardnh.net for more information and to sign up on the email list.
The HLA Budget meeting will be on August 30, 2020 at 9AM. It will be outdoors by the waterfront because of COVID-19. Proposed Budget and meeting agenda attached below.
Website updates: Corrected some missing minutes and fixed links to minutes. 2020 General meeting and board minutes should be accessible now.
High speed fiber internet may be coming to town!
Check out www.stoddardnh.net for more information and to sign up on the email list.
| hla_budget_fy22_-_proposed.pdf |
| august_2020_meeting_agenda.docx |
Pool and Pool House Update:
Hello residents,
The board has made a decision to keep the bathrooms and pool house closed, due to COVID-19. We apologize for this inconvenience, but the decision is a result of the following:
We will continue to receive guidance from the Governor, CDC and department of health, and plan to update this guidance as soon as it changes. We do hope to have a pool season for the summer.
Note that we may have some cost savings by delaying the pool opening; these funds will be invested in improving the pool area / pool infrastructure.
Hello residents,
The board has made a decision to keep the bathrooms and pool house closed, due to COVID-19. We apologize for this inconvenience, but the decision is a result of the following:
- The NH Department of Health provided guidance on bathrooms and pool operation during COVID, suggesting closure.
- Additional cost associated with paying staff to constantly wipe down and clean surfaces, door knobs, faucets etc.
- Liability to the association
We will continue to receive guidance from the Governor, CDC and department of health, and plan to update this guidance as soon as it changes. We do hope to have a pool season for the summer.
Note that we may have some cost savings by delaying the pool opening; these funds will be invested in improving the pool area / pool infrastructure.
Board to Meet Online
The board of director's next meeting will be held June 14, 2020, via Skype.
The board of director's next meeting will be held June 14, 2020, via Skype.
3/30/2020 - HLA COVID-19 RESPONSE
The HLA Board would like to share information with the community
If you need assistance with food:
thecommunitykitchen.org / 603-352-3200
NH Food bank
Reach out to the board for information on neighbor to neighbor assistance
If you need assistance with mortgage payment, investigate if your mortgage servicer is providing COVID-19 relief or forbearance. Many mortgage servicers are providing this option effective immediately.
Detailed information: www.fhfa.gov/Homeownersbuyer/MortgageAssistance/Pages/Coronavirus-Assistance-Information.aspx
NH Governor Emergency Orders
If you are quarantined and need supplies delivered, the Town of Stoddard Fire Department will deliver for you:
www.stoddardnh.org/home/news/letter-residents-selectmen
Link to NH unemployment office and guidelines:
wfc.nhes.nh.gov
If you are looking to donate to COVID-19 relief:
www.muw.org/covid-19-relief-fund
For other updates:
HLA Facebook page
The Keene Sentinel Facebook Page
NH Public Radio
The HLA Board would like to share information with the community
If you need assistance with food:
thecommunitykitchen.org / 603-352-3200
NH Food bank
Reach out to the board for information on neighbor to neighbor assistance
If you need assistance with mortgage payment, investigate if your mortgage servicer is providing COVID-19 relief or forbearance. Many mortgage servicers are providing this option effective immediately.
Detailed information: www.fhfa.gov/Homeownersbuyer/MortgageAssistance/Pages/Coronavirus-Assistance-Information.aspx
NH Governor Emergency Orders
If you are quarantined and need supplies delivered, the Town of Stoddard Fire Department will deliver for you:
www.stoddardnh.org/home/news/letter-residents-selectmen
Link to NH unemployment office and guidelines:
wfc.nhes.nh.gov
If you are looking to donate to COVID-19 relief:
www.muw.org/covid-19-relief-fund
For other updates:
HLA Facebook page
The Keene Sentinel Facebook Page
NH Public Radio
2/1/20 - New Road Weight Limit
Attention contractors and people having work done at their homes:
King’s Highway is being posted with a 10-ton weight limit. This is at the state’s direction, because the culverts on the town-owned portion of the road (at the mailboxes) have deteriorated. No plan has been finalized for work there yet but the town has asked for expedited planning and review to resolve this issue.
The signs are not yet up, and we have reason to believe the posting won’t be enforced until they are, but plan ahead if you expect to move equipment in or out in the near future. Fuel trucks are being excluded from the weight restrictions at this time.
If there is an emergency or other reason to move equipment that weighs more than 10 tons, contact the Stoddard Town Office at 603-446-3326, extension 100, or David Vaillancourt.
More information will be posted in this space and on our Facebook page as it becomes available.
Read the town notice here.
Attention contractors and people having work done at their homes:
King’s Highway is being posted with a 10-ton weight limit. This is at the state’s direction, because the culverts on the town-owned portion of the road (at the mailboxes) have deteriorated. No plan has been finalized for work there yet but the town has asked for expedited planning and review to resolve this issue.
The signs are not yet up, and we have reason to believe the posting won’t be enforced until they are, but plan ahead if you expect to move equipment in or out in the near future. Fuel trucks are being excluded from the weight restrictions at this time.
If there is an emergency or other reason to move equipment that weighs more than 10 tons, contact the Stoddard Town Office at 603-446-3326, extension 100, or David Vaillancourt.
More information will be posted in this space and on our Facebook page as it becomes available.
Read the town notice here.
12/13/19 - General Updates
Road conditions everywhere are very slick, please use caution.
No board meeting for December.
The intersection of Kings Highway, Kennedy Brook is now a 3-way stop. This is enforced by the town, and it is a school bus stop 4 times a day. Please pay close attention and abide by these new signs!
Website updates:
"Volunteer" Section moved under Events
"Potential Buyers" section added to provide guidance to potential owners / Real Estate agents
Road conditions everywhere are very slick, please use caution.
No board meeting for December.
The intersection of Kings Highway, Kennedy Brook is now a 3-way stop. This is enforced by the town, and it is a school bus stop 4 times a day. Please pay close attention and abide by these new signs!
Website updates:
"Volunteer" Section moved under Events
"Potential Buyers" section added to provide guidance to potential owners / Real Estate agents
|
Docks Out!
Sadly, it's that time again. Veteran members of our dock removal crew will be at the waterfront Saturday, October 12, from 9 a.m. till around noon, taking out the docks for the winter. Volunteers are needed to help with the project and to learn how its done for future years! It's always fun to see if anyone will fall in, and to get to know your neighbors while helping the whole community by doing this necessary work. Coffee and breakfast buns will be provided! |
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Campfire farewell
to Dian Mathews!
Come to the waterfront at 5 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 21 to wish Dian Mathews a fond farewell! Dian was Hidden Lake Association's secretary for 8 years, providing continuity across a number of different boards, is the chair of the town planning board, and
is the District 3 director of the NH Federation of Garden Clubs.
It is our loss that she and William are moving out of town
but we will wish them well with a fire and a toast (or two!)
BYOB, the grill will be available.
is the District 3 director of the NH Federation of Garden Clubs.
It is our loss that she and William are moving out of town
but we will wish them well with a fire and a toast (or two!)
BYOB, the grill will be available.
Annual Budget Meeting was Saturday August 31
Thank you to all members who attended and voted during the 2019 Budget meeting.
The budget was approved (attached below).
The new bylaws were approved (attached here under the About section)
As a result of the new budget, the assessment has been raised to $600 per lot.
A big THANK YOU to Dian Mathews, who has been the secretary for Hidden Lake Association for 8 years!
A reminder that if you'd like to try your hand at designing the association's new logo, please send a submission to a board member.
| fy_2021_budget.pdf |
HLA logo contest is under way!
Do you or does someone you know have artist talent and a wish to have a lasting impact on the Hidden Lake Association? Enter our logo contest! Create a piece of art that reflects how you feel about the HLA and submit it before our annual membership meeting on August 31. Members will vote on their favorites at the meeting!
Send your entry to secretary@hiddenlakeassociation.com, mail it to P.O. Box 224, Stoddard, NH 03464. Include your name, your association property address, and any info you'd like to share about how you created the logo.
The person who creates the HLA's new logo will win a prize, and the logo will appear on future merch, signs, and letterhead.
Send your entry to secretary@hiddenlakeassociation.com, mail it to P.O. Box 224, Stoddard, NH 03464. Include your name, your association property address, and any info you'd like to share about how you created the logo.
The person who creates the HLA's new logo will win a prize, and the logo will appear on future merch, signs, and letterhead.
Docks in!
It's almost time to put the boats in the water! Your help is always appreciated. All are welcome to participate. Can't wait to see everyone!
Saturday, May 4, 9 a.m.
Saturday, May 4, 9 a.m.
Upcoming meetings
The next Hidden Lake Association board meeting will be at Rossi Hall on the second Tuesday at 6:30 pm.
Regular board meetings happen on the second Tuesday of every month. During the cold months, the board meets at a board member's house to escape the chill of Rossi Hall.
If you have an item you would like added to the agenda, or if you would like to attend, please email:
president@hiddenlakeassociation.com.
If you'd like to discuss association matters, please email, fill out a form, or attend the meeting.
We kindly ask that you use these methods to contact the board.
| hlaapril_2019_agenda.doc |
Fiscal year 2020 budget
This budget runs from May 1, 2019, to April 30, 2020. It was approved by a membership vote in August, 2018.
Annual budget meeting
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The next meeting of the membership will be the annual budget meeting on August 25, 9am @ Rossi Hall. Keep an eye here for the agenda, and read up on the budget proposal (above).
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HIDDEN LAKE ASSOCIATION BUDGET MEETING
AUGUST 25, 2018 ROSSI HALL AGENDA FLAG SALUTE 1. Acceptance of minutes from June 30, 2018 Membership meeting. 2. Selection of three person Minute Acceptance committee for this meeting’s minutes 3. TREASURER’S REPORT – Jacky Hastings a. Current Account Balances b. Budget presentation for FY2020 and vote 4. COMMITTEE REPORTS a. Recreation Report – Mikki Falcone b. Waterfront Report – Mike Gallagher c. Road Report – Donna Moxley Vote: Will the membership approve a three-year grading contract with fixed costs? Explanation: Any HLA contract lasting more than a year must be approved by the membership. The board recommends approving the three-year contract. d. Bylaws Report – Vote on Amended Bylaws deferred to next summer 5. UNFINISHED BUSINESS a. Keyless entry project 6. NEW BUSINESS a. June 2019 Board Elections: Positions open are President, Secretary and a 3-year term Director position. Nominations will be taken from the floor. |
June 2018 Election Results:
Vice President: Lee Simpson
Treasurer: Jacky Hastings
Director: Mike Gallagher
Congrats to all of you!
Thank you very much to our exiting Vice President, Bill Osterhout, who put in long hours covering both the VP and treasurer position in the last few months.
Vice President: Lee Simpson
Treasurer: Jacky Hastings
Director: Mike Gallagher
Congrats to all of you!
Thank you very much to our exiting Vice President, Bill Osterhout, who put in long hours covering both the VP and treasurer position in the last few months.