Verona at Pelican Preserve

Please note the following:

1) Mailboxes: The contractor is planning to begin the mailbox repairs today (3/29). Besides sanding and painting, numerals and flags will be replaced. This project will take several weeks. Please note that the flags are on order, so there may be slight delay till they are replaced. As a reminder, once the mailboxes have been renovated, maintenance will revert back to the homeowners so be sure your mailbox is satisfactory once the repairs are completed.

2) Dog Waste: As a courtesy to our landscapers and your neighbors, we are reminding all residents that dog waste must be picked up immediately as opposed at “the end of the day” even in the back of the unit. Unfortunately, during a recent walkthrough, this situation was found to be a problem. Please note that our Condominium Docs state that homeowners are responsible for picking up the waste and damage caused by their pets which would include landscaping such as grass. Thanks in advance for your cooperation.

3) Golf Carts: The brown stains on some driveways coming from golf carts including, but not limited to the batteries, are the responsibility of the homeowner to clean. Cleaning solutions from stores such as Lowes and Home Depot have been found to be effective. Ask for their advice.

The company that recently cleaned the driveways and walks noted this condition could not be cleaned effectively using their standard cleaners.

Bob Kohlbecker
Mary McKInney
Frank Magruda

1) Mulch:  As you can tell from the 21 pallets of mulch on Diamante Way, the material will be put down within the next few days.  Please note that Ameriscape will intentionally apply a heavy application in the front of the units (to protect the new landscaping material) and a lighter application in the back of the units. We do plan to add some more landscape material in certain areas.

Trish Albers has asked us to send out the following for all the Verona Ladies. (BTW:Be sure to check out the picture below of the Verona walkers at the 5K walk in 2019. Everybody is smiling …. should be a good time).

Ladies,
Hoping to get together to do the 5K walk for the 5K walk on March 19th. We will try to find a pace that is comfortable for all to join in and stay together. If you are interested, please let me know by February 28th and I will get us registered. Text me at 419852-0026 with your name and house number. Hope you can join us!
Trish Albers.

The Residents Alliance has been one of the key reasons why Pelican Preserve has developed into a premier 55 and older community thru their advocacy. They are now reaching out to all residents on an urgent need that if not addressed will affect each of us in Verona.  Please read carefully and plan to attend the meeting on March 2nd at 2PM.    

FROM THE RESIDENT’S ALLIANCE

Questions? contact Carole Brokke at brokkecd@comcast.net

Councilwoman Darla Bonk has asked that residents in Ward 6 attend (in LARGE numbers) the March 2nd  1PM  City Planning Board meeting at City Hall Council Chambers. (2200 Second St. Fort Myers, 33910)
If we don’t have a large turnout there will be 1607 units built at Daniels and Treeline.

See details written by Arborwood resident Bob McConahy on Nextdoor.com
Bob McConahyArborwood • 9 Feb

Help Stop The Over Building in the Area! Recently I made a post about the annexation of property north of Daniels and east of Treeline. There were over 150 comments on that post mainly in support of limited building. I went to the Feb 2nd Planning Board meeting and with the support of Darla Bork and a few planning board members that listened, the change in rezoning the property was temporarily tabled until the next meeting which is MARCH 2nd at 1 PM.
However, it is very clear that there is predetermined outcome to rezone this property to commercial intensive that would allow for high rise multi family units on this property. * the 64 acre parcel would allow up to 1607 units to be built on the property * the city figures 3 people per unit – subsequently another 4800 citizens

* the city planners stated during the meeting that the water problem is only a temporary problem and with the steps the city is taking is not an issue for rezoning this property!

* the city planners also reported in the meeting that a traffic study has determined that there would be no impact to the area! I just don’t understand how the city planners can with a straight face report out that an additional 4800 people on the nearby streets is not a problem!

* when the board questioned the planners on citizens comments they stated “a few people called, but their were no majors concerns”

* the attorney for the planning board reported that citizen emails and calls carry “no weight” since the caller is not providing testimony and can not be questioned Subsequently – UNLESS MANY CITIZENS SHOW UP AT THE PLANNING BOARD MEETING AND SUBSEQUENT COUNCIL MEETING -THIS PROPERTY WILL BE REZONED TO COMMERCIAL INTENSIVE FOR MULTI-FAMILY UNITS

Please, please show up to the planning board meeting March 2nd at 1 PM in City Hall Council Chambers at 2200 Second Street Ft. Myers to Voice your concerns.

It is very easy – just fill out a green card prior to the start of the meeting requesting to speak with your name and address. Voice your concerns and answer any questions ask of you by the planning board. As our Ward 6 representative Ms. Bork was very supportive, but she is only one voice. Many are needed! Documents for the meeting can be found on the City web site under planning board meeting agendas.

As you are aware, the garage lights have been installed and caulking/paint touch up will be completed this week.  The Board decided to make this improvement on a one time basis only to achieve consistency within the neighborhood.  IT IS IMPORTANT TO NOTE THAT the contractor will soon be finished and that you must tell the Board of any garage light issues you have so the contractor can correct.  After this, all maintenance and repairs are the homeowner responsibility and must be done in accordance with the Condo Docs.

ALSO: All future light bulb replacements, in accordance with the Condo Docs, must be LED with a light appearance of 2700 to 3000 K (Translation:  Look for the words “Warm Light” or in some instances “Soft Light” .This appearance is similar to the standard incandescent bulb and NOT a fluorescent).  A picture is attached to this e mail.  These specs will be posted on the Verona website.

Please also note the following:

1) The garage lights have a dusk to dawn sensor on them.  If you keep your switch “on”, the garage light will turn on at dusk and off at dawn.  FOR SAFETY, and the aesthetic appearance of Verona, the Board requests that the garage lights be kept “ON”, especially when it only costs about 50 cents per month (due to the LED bulb) to operate the light 12 hours per day.

2) Depending on your unit’s wiring, the alcove light may also be “ON” all the time when the switch for the garage is in the “ON” position. (Some units were wired with  separate switches for the alcove and garage lights).  There is an economical solution to this issue.

General Electric, Feit Lighting, and other manufacturers make a “dusk to dawn” LED light bulb available from Home Depot, Lowes, and Amazon.  Cost is about $7.00 to $10.00. A photo electric sensor is on the light bulb which will operate as a dusk to dawn light.  The lights are available in the standard light bulb base and the candelabra base.  Simply replace the existing bulb, and you will achieve a dusk to dawn feature. Be sure the light you buy is 2700 – 3000 K (Warm Light) as they are manufactured in a 5000 K (Fluorescent color) version.

For those of you that are technically astute, there are alternatives involving apps and your cell phone.  Talk to Bob or Mary if you are interested, but for most of us replacing the bulb is all that is necessary.

Bob Kohlbecker
Mary McKinney
Frank Magruda

Please be aware of the following concerning the new garage lights now being installed.

1) Yes, caulking will be applied to the top of the fixture base to prevent water from entering.
2) Yes, touch up paint will be done at some point after the lights are installed.
3) Yes, in a few days there will be an email letting you know how to handle the foyer light and achieve “dusk to dawn” capabilities.
4) Remember, the garage lights are a dusk to dawn light and it will not come until dark … also the light switch must be turned on.
5) Finally, this LED light will produce a color similar to the old incandescent light bulb (sometimes called “warm white”, or “3000 K”). We are striving to achieve a uniform appearance on the street and do NOT want to use “bright white” or ” daylight” for replacement bulbs which are similar to the light produced by a fluorescent bulb.

Bob Kohlbecker
Mary Mckinney
Frank Magruda

The garage light installation will start tomorrow, sooner than expected. MAKE SURE YOUR GARAGE LIGHTS ARE TURNED OFF!

Bob Kohlbecker
Frank Magruda
Mary McKinney

Garage Lights: Barring any unforeseen issues, the installation of the new garage lights will begin later this week and should be completed within a few days. NOTE: THE PERSON DOING THE INSTALLATION HAS ASKED THAT LIGHTS BE TURNED OFF.  He will not have to have access to your home.

Landscaping Phase II: After discussion with the landscape committee, Ameriscape is scheduled to begin the second phase of the landscaping renovation on Monday, February 7th.  These plans include replacement of some bushes alongside the units and in the courtyard.  Please note that not every house will be affected.

Bob Kohlbecker
Frank Magruda
Mary McKinney

Verona Update (1/6/22) – Landscaping / Garage Lights / Mailboxes / Sealcoating / Pest Control

Verona Update (11/18/21) – President’s meeting / Toys for Tots / Landscaping / Sealcoating / Lights / Save the Date

The following items will be of interest to Verona residents:

President’s Meeting (11/18/21)
1) New hours for the trap gate operation will be from 6:00pm till 6:00am each day.  Exit arm will also be “down” during those hours.
2) New policy to be announced:  Golf carts NOT used on the golf course can be any color.
3) Construction Road upgrade:  DRI must be revised before road will be built and upgraded.
4) PPCA is striving for a stronger, regular police presence in the community.  Meanwhile, police will continue to be hired for traffic enforcement.
5) Rumble strips on Veneto Road leading to the Town Center:  City has to approve the planned improvements.
6) Boardwalk:  Will be completed by late December, but two government agencies must approve.  January opening is anticipated.
7) Walking path around Preserve:  Repairs will be made on sections as needed.
8) Low water pressure:  While not a problem in Verona, this is an ongoing issue in other areas of the community.
9) Water delivery from city:  New pump station at end of Treeline near Daniels will not be completed till Fall 2022.
10) Former Sales Center:  Conversion plans will include Library, Music Room, Card Rooms, Offices, Coffee service (in addition to TC).
11) Flip Flops and Destinations:  Emphasis is being placed on improving the “experience”.  New menus, food choices, Sports TV, Employee training.
12) Community Garage Sale:  The date has not yet been set.

Toys for Tots
Verona will participate in the Marine Corps Toys for Tots program. A collection box will be provided for donations at our Christmas lighting on Sunday, December 5th. Please bring a new, unwrapped toy to add to the box.

Landscaping
Extensive Improvements will begin in January consisting of the areas between and in front of the units.  Not every home will be affected. Be aware: In some
instances, the resident will need to remove walkway lights to avoid damage.  ALSO:  If in the past you have paid to have a special
planting installed by Ameriscape, you will need to identify it so it will not inadvertently be removed.  Specifics will be provided in January.

There will be some maintenance issues addressed in December such as concrete repair and tree removal due to disease that are not part of the main project.

Landscaping Committee
Thanks for Toivo Ratsep, Mary McKinney, and Gary Johnson for agreeing to serve as advisors to the Board on landscaping maintenance.  Their purpose will be
to work directly with Ameriscape personnel on a regular basis using walk throughs to identify areas such as dead bushes, broken sprinkler heads, trimming, etc.
that need to be fixed or repaired.  NOTE that if a resident has any of the above mentioned concerns, it should be reported directly to Ameriscape  (and not the committee) using their ticket system or by making a phone call.  This is the most efficient way to correct a problem and establish a history of the report.

Sealcoating 
The CDD will not be sealcoating streets in Pelican Preserve as their engineers feel this is strictly an appearance condition and not necessary for street maintenance.  Roads will be inspected each year for eventual repaving as will be done in Avila whose streets are in poor condition.  Meanwhile, the Verona
Board believes the consensus of our association residents is to sealcoat the street.  This, and sidewalk / driveway power washing will be done in the Spring.

Garage Lights.
Still under evaluation … lots to consider.  A possible sample unit has been installed at 10549 Diamante.  Your comments are welcomed.

Save the Dates
December 1st:  Annual Verona Meeting – 1:00pm – Town Center Theater
December 7th:  Facilities meeting.  Both in person and hybrid.  Current revised plans will be revealed. Location / Time to be announced.
December 8th: Ft. Myers city personnel will visit to answer questions.  3:00pm, Magnolia Room

Thanks for your support.

Bob Kohlbecker
Frank Magruda
Tom Fifelski

Verona Update (11/1/21) – Landscaping / Hard Cutting /  Lighting / Street Sealcoating / Mailboxes / Other items

The following email is intended to bring all Verona residents up to date on items of interest to our Association

1) Landscaping: Following the recommendations of the Landscaping Committee which were finalized in May, and with input from Javier Pineda of Ameriscape and Marsha Dennison of Schoo Management, the Board has decided to embark on a two phase program to revitalize and renew our 20 year old landscaping.  We tentatively plan to start in December.  The overall goal of this program is to clean out and open up existing areas that are overgrown while judiciously replanting, adding color to the existing landscape palate. This will all be done with the realization that Verona is paying for “commercial grade” landscaping which has inherent cost limitations compared to what all of us might have done as individual homeowners in the past.  Part of this plan will be to transition to a “coco brown” mulch which is recommended by Ameriscape and will add to the aesthetic appearance while providing more nutrients to our plantings.

It is important to note that while most units will experience work being done, not every house will be affected.  The initial plan will generally involve the front and center areas between units. Plants that are up against the house itself will generally not be addressed until the second phase which is planned for next year.  Also, in certain instances, pathway lighting should be removed lest it be damaged in the replanting process.  As we get closer to the start of the project, we will define exactly which houses might be affected.

Residents have probably observed that replacement plantings (notably bushes at the top of driveways and certain hibiscus) are quite small.  This was done intentionally, as there is a considerable cost savings by planting small …  they will grow!

Finally. please remember that Verona is a condominium association, and that contrary to a “homeowners association”, residents are not allowed to plant, maintain, or do anything to the landscaping.  This is also reflected in our contract with Ameriscape who warrants and replaces all our plant material. If an issue does exist, then the resident should submit a “ticket”  online at the Ameriscape website or call the company at (239) 353-6755.  All requests are eventually reviewed by the Board.

2) Hard Cuts:  Ameriscape will soon be doing a hard cut on most plant material in the community, including trees with blooms.  This is a necessary phase of landscaping maintenance … trees will rebloom quickly.  Also note that the cul de sac palm trees need maintenance and trimming.  The cul de sac is actually maintained by the CDD – they will be contacted concerning this maintenance work

3) Lighting: The Board is also reviewing the possibility of replacing and standardizing all outside garage lighting.  There is a lot to consider in this area however, and no final decisions have been made.  A sample black light has been installed at 10549 and is being evaluated …. any comments you might have are welcomed.  Also, if you have not done so, take time to look at the Avila lighting at night.

4) Street Sealcoating: From an appearance standpoint it  is apparent our street needs to be sealcoated.  However, there is a possibility the CDD might do this in the coming months which would save the Association almost $9000.  But, as of this email,  there is no final commitment from the CDD to sealcoat the streets.  In addition, we do not want to sealcoat prior to beginning our landscape project.

5) Mailboxes:  Mailboxes are the responsibility of the individual homeowners.  Accordingly, repairs such as flag replacement, numbers, or doors not closing must be done by the owner and the repair consistent with the rest of mailboxes on the street (ie: Flags and numbers must be the same design and type).  We suggest you call the company that originally installed the mailboxes which is Lykins Signtec at (239) 595-8484 for replacement parts. Mention you live in the Pelican Preserve Verona Association. The cost of parts is nominal, and most repairs are fairly simple, but if you would want a “handyman” to make the repair, contact Schoo Management or the Board for a handyman suggestion if you are not familiar with one.

OTHER ITEMS

6) Sidewalk / Driveway cleaning:  This will probably be done in the spring after the landscaping and seal coating projects are completed.

7) Paint Samples: Paint samples, especially brown,  for touch up work on your unit are still available.  Contact Bob Kohlbecker for assistance.

8) Volunteer Opportunities: The Board welcomes resident’s participation to make our association and community a better place to live.  Carole Maimoni and Mary Anne Harris are doing a great job creating social opportunities within our community.  John Marksteiner heads up the association’s Christmas decorations on the cul de sac which always brighten the season. The Arnolds are hosting Coffee on Concrete and have contributed to the overall landscaping project. Mark Kline heads up the Verona ERT and along with Tom Fifelski and Paul Daraska, are providing guidance and help in times of emergency.  In that spirit, we are seeking new members for our landscaping committee and appreciate that Toivo Ratsep has volunteered.  There are other areas where your participation might help.  Please consider volunteering for one of these groups or for one in which you might have a personal interest.

8) Annual Meeting:  Our Annual Meeting will be at 1:00 pm in the Town Center Theater on Wednesday, December 1st.  Further information and an agenda will be forthcoming from Schoo Management.  With that in mind, the Board appreciates the support we are receiving from the community as it makes the time and effort involved with our job easier.

Bob Kohlbecker
Tom Fifelski
Frank Magruda

Oct 4th at 9 am – Coffee on the Concrete at 10517 Diamante Way.

Thank you Joanne and Tovie for hosting, this will be the only Oct. date.

Oct 8th at 1:00 pm will be our Verona Outing to the Boathouse Tiki Bar in Fort Myers, email was sent with location .

We are all looking forward to everyone returning this fall.

Verona Update – 8/4/21 – Oak Trees / Landscaping / Master Association /  Emergency Response Team (ERT) / New Neighbors / Website / Weather

This is a email to bring everyone away from Pelican Preserve for the season up to date on what has happened in Verona since many of you left last Spring:

1) Oak Trees:  18 trees along the street have been removed (trees in the “park” remain), and the area sodded over with plans to replace these trees in the Fall.  We are still dealing with the after affects of the Oak tree root system as repairs to some drainage pipes are necessary. These repairs  can cost up to $800.

2) Landscaping: Phases one and two have been completed and plans are to complete the landscaping program (phase 3) in the Fall.The first two phases involved removing the junipers from the remaining islands and planting bushes at the top of all driveways.  Also being planned, funds not withstanding, are new lighting on the units and seal coating Diamante Way.  Note however that all of this is dependent on sufficient funds being available and we will have a better feel for this by the end of the Summer.

3) Master Association: The Master Association covenants (rules) are so similar to our condominium association documents (covenants) that the Master Association Board’s request to all Associations to adopt the Master rules into their own rules will have little effect on us except for it being easier to achieve uniformity in the community.  The biggest effect will be on Homeowners Associations.

4) Emergency Response Team (ERT): As the height of hurricane season approaches, critical information may be available to residents from the Pelican Preserve Emergency Response Team with Verona residents Mark Kline, Tom Fifelski and Paul Daraska as representatives.  The Verona website (veronacoa.com) has bulletins (under the bulletins / emergency response bulletins tab) issued by this group concerning hurricane preparedness.  We urge everyone to be familiar with these documents and be aware more information will come from the ERT in the event of an emergency. Urgent bulletins will come from Mark Kline or the Emergency Response Team.

5) New Neighbors:  Please welcome Larry and Lynn Conner (10543) and Dwight and Sandra Swann (10515) who have recently bought in Verona.

6) Website (veronacoa.com):  We have had this site in place now for 6 months.  There is a nominal charge each month for its use, so if you are having any issues with its functionality such as access, speed, ease of use, please send your comments to Marsha Dennision at Schoo Management and copy Bob Kohlbecker,

7) Weather:  As would be expected … hot and humid with afternoon rainstorms.  The ponds are full.

Verona Association Board

Bob Kohlbecker
Tom Fifelski
Frank Magruda

Verona Update – 5/15/21 – Presidents Meeting / How to Access the Verona Website
Inbox

.Good Morning,

Here is an update of the President’s Meeting on May 13th and information on how to access the Verona Website:

1) PPCA (Master Association): In order to provide better adherence to the rules, the PPCA will be instituting a process to enforce adherence to existing covenants in Pelican Preserve . Currently, there is considerable variation between associations. While most of the issues deal with HOA’s, it was noted that association covenants can not be less than the Master but that an association can be more restrictive. Verona is a Condominium Association whose covenants are generally more restrictive than the Master.

2) Preserve Boardwalk: As of 5/13, the contractor is into the seventh day of the process – most railings have been removed. The design of the octagon viewing platform will be modified somewhat with additional pilings being put into place. There is a possibility of a 5-6 month delay in completion because of the nationwide shortage of building materials and a 25-30% increase in the cost of the materials. Questions concerning this project should be addressed to Scott Scharnoff by email or phone … (239) 985-1628.

3) Hotwire Installation: 2360 homes have been installed and a few remain to be done. There are 67 of whom they have not been able to contact.

4) Resident ID cards: Terri Lollio noted that implementation will be a long process with 5000 cards to be distributed. They are currently processing 100 per day. Residents will be emailed when their card is ready.

5) Dog Park: Terri Lollio also asked that residents not let their dogs dig holes in the dog park. Dogs like to dig holes, but there are safety issues involved and regrading is necessary.

6) Restaurant: While gross revenue YTD is $38,000 less, progress is being made. During the last period, gross revenue was up $12,000 above budget. Staffing has been a problem and they are currently short staffed. It has been difficult to hire people for positions.

7) Fort Myers Pump Station: Construction (near Bridgetown) will start in June 2021, and will take 12 to 14 months to complete. This should address water pressure issues in Pelican Preserve.

8) Hurricane Preparedness: Residents have been asked to carefully review the hurricane preparedness information sent out in a recent e-mail.[ This information is on the Verona website (veronacoa.com)]

9) Road Inspections: The CDD will be inspecting all roads in Pelican Preserve for repairs and possible resurfacing.

Additional Information concerning Verona and not included in President’s Meeting:

How to Access the Verona Website (veronacoa.com)

1) Google veronacoa.com or access the site thru your browser.

2) Next, register for the website. This can be done by either by clicking on the Register link on the drop down under Resident Login or by clicking on the Login page itself and then by clicking on the register link at the bottom of that page.

Register

2) Once the form is completed, you will need to wait a few days to be approved. Once approved, you will receive an email letting you know you can log into their account.

We plan to use the website as a major communication tool for our Association.

Have a good day!

Bob Kohlbecker
Tom Fifelski
Frank Magruda

Good Evening,

There will be a lot of activity in Verona over the next few months.

1) Oak Trees:  The Board voted to accept a proposal from Ameriscape to remove 18 Oak Trees in front of houses, and sod the affected area. Removing the trees was a difficult decision, but with the potential of blocked, broken sewer  and water supply lines it became clear it was not a case of “if”, but “when” the next problems would occur.  In addition, faced with a $9000 concrete repair bill this year alone much of which was the result of the trees, the decision was clear.  We also noted that Monticello, Avila, Materita II and other neighborhoods have already removed these trees.

There will be a replacement tree planted for each Oak tree removed, but this will be done in the Fall when conditions are more favorable for growth. The new trees will be chosen on the basis of color, maintenance requirements, and root migration.

2) Landscaping: Phase I will be completed in the next several weeks.  This will entail removing the Junipers from the remaining 8 islands between the driveways, sodding, and adding a bush at the top of each driveway.  In addition, those driveways which have been completed but do not have a bush at the top will have one added.  The bushes will either be a podacarpus or dwarf red ixora, and they will be interspersed.  Phase II should start soon, with the worst “jungles” that have been identified totally removed and replanted.  Other jungles will be identified this Fall with removal and appropriate replanting done.  Note that some plantings will be delayed till the Fall due to our high soil pH, dry conditions, and the need to provide optimal conditions for growth.  Finally, a “hard cut” is planned for July.  This has been delayed to this point by the dry conditions.

The annual trimming of the 123 Sabal Palms in the community will commence soon.

3) Concrete Repair Work: The Board approved concrete repair work.  Much of this is due to potential trip hazards and will be started within the next month or so.

4) Lighting: It is readily apparent that the outdoor garage light fixtures on our units are anything but “uniform” as required by the Association Documents.  The Board has decided on a “one time basis only”,  to purchase, replace and install all new lighting fixtures.  This will also include all necessary touch up painting and caulking.  After this is done, any replacement will revert back to being the home owner’s responsibility using extra fixtures that the Association will have purchased. Please note this work will not begin until late Fall to allow time to adequately research our light fixture options.

5) Website: Be sure to check our website (veronacoa.com).  It will be necessary to “register” first, then once accepted, you will need to establish a password.  It is the Board’s intent to have the website become a primary information channel to our residents.  Currently, Condominium Documents, Wind Mitigation Reports (to hopefully save money on your homeowners insurance), Emergency Response Team guidelines (from Mark Kline and PPERT) and other documents are viewable under the “documents” tab.  Wonder who lived here in 2008? Need to see a past “Verona Update”? Want to see other pictures? Click on “public information” and find the “photo gallery” and “news” plus other sections.

 6) Judy Lee Alcorn: Judy Lee (formerly of 10505) recently moved from our community to Bonita Springs.  Her new address is 25730 Hickory Blvd, Bonita Springs, 34134.  Her phone number remains that same.

7) New Residents: We welcome Brad and Nancy Straw who have become full time residents. Stop by and say “Hello” to them at 10505.

Bob Kohlbecker
Tom Fifelski
Frank Magruda