2020 Archives
Because the articles on this page are dated, the links may not be working. We apologize for any inconvenience.
Jingle Bells in TrailMark!
Thursday, December 31st, 6:00 pm. On New Year’s Eve at 6pm, come outside to ring a bell for 2 minutes to bring togetherness and hope to TrailMark for the New Year!
TrailMark continues to be offered Resident Rates at Recreation Facilities in 2021
Per the South Suburban Parks & Recreation (SSPR) Business Support Supervisor, district residents can continue to use the SSPR facilities into 2021. Who is a District Resident? Anyone who rents or owns property within the South Suburban Park and Recreation District boundaries is a District Resident. TrailMark falls within the SSPR district. For more information or to get questions answered, go to https://www.ssprd.org/About/Residency/Residency-Checker. The HOA Board has confirmed continuation of the special arrangement with Foothills Park & Recreation District, which allows TrailMark residents to receive Foothills resident rates. This means a continuation of reduced rates on all Foothills admission fees, passes and classes. For more information or to get your questions answered, visit the Foothills website at https://www.ifoothills.org/about-foothills
Posted December 28, 2020
FREE from TrailMark Residents to TrailMark Residents
Join our new page on Facebook! The
FREE IN TRAILMARK page was created by the TrailMark HOA after sponsoring a trash drive where so many useful items were disposed of. We encourage all residents of TrailMark to use this page when you have anything around the house to give away for FREE. https://www.facebook.com/groups/freeintrailmark
Posted December 22, 2020
Foothills Animal Shelter Needs Your Help This Holiday Season
Right now, Foothills Animal Shelter urgently needs your help. Reflecting on this year is difficult. The pandemic has had a traumatic effect on us all, and because of this, fewer people are able to donate to save animals. All pets deserve to feel befriended, treasured and loved – at the holidays, and always. Donate today and make a difference in your community.
Posted December 21, 2020
Santa Claus is coming to TrailMark!
CANCELLED – Due to the rise in COVID cases, Santa won’t be in his chair at TrailMark and Everett this year. Sorry. Santa will be coming to TrailMark for a visit again this year (weather permitting)! He will be on the corner of TrailMark Parkway and South Everett Way on the evenings of Saturday, December 19th and Sunday, December 20th. Volunteers would be appreciated to donate time or set up additional lighting to make Santa’s corner even more spectacular! Please contact Gregory Goggin at goggin2u@yahoo.com. Please observe COVID-19 restrictions. Santa will also be taking the necessary precautions!
Large Capacity COVID-19 Testing Sites Now Open in Jeffco
Jefferson County Public Health, in partnership with the Colorado Department of Public Health & Environment and Curative Testing, recently launched two new free COVID-19 testing sites in Jeffco. The first, located at Jefferson County Fairgrounds at 15200 W. 6th Ave Frontage Rd., Golden, CO 80401, opened Sunday, Nov. 22. In addition to the testing site at the Jefferson County Fairgrounds, there is a mobile COVID-19 testing van that provides free testing at several locations in mountain communities throughout Jefferson County.Posted December 18, 2020
Telephone Town Hall Tonight: COVID-19 Vaccination, Testing and Resources
Jefferson County Public Health, along with the Board of County Commissioners, will host a telephone town hall
about COVID-19, tonight, Thursday, Dec. 17 at 5:30 p.m. During this over-the-phone meeting, public health experts will discuss important COVID-19 issues in Jeffco, including how we are doing with COVID-19 cases and hospitalizations and what to expect as vaccinations become available. You can just listen in or you can ask the experts questions.
Posted December 17, 2020
Food Truck Thursday with Online Ordering!
Thursday, December 17th, 5:00-7:30 pm. DO NOT TRY TO ORDER BEFORE 5 PM. S. Field Way near TrailMark Park. SOCIAL DISTANCING IS MANDATORY! • Order food AT HOME • Send 1 PERSON to pick it up • Stand 6 feet apart • Go home to eat • NO CONGREGATING AT THE PARK! • Respect those who live on that street • For trucks that use Truckster: Download the Truckster app, hit magnifying glass at the bottom, type in the truck name, click on menu button • Other truck links: Go straight to the ordering button. (Some ice cream trucks don’t have an online ordering option.) • Links will go live at 5pm. You can’t order until the truck turns the ordering system on. • The truck will message you back and tell you when your order will be ready. Then come pick up your food while adhering to social distancing. • Food truck selections subject to change. • Due to WEATHER, events may be canceled. Please check trailmark.org for cancellation information. FOOD TRUCK(S) FOR DECEMBER 17 – Meatball *MEATBALL ONLY tonight. Not Farm to Truck. Sorry. Order through each business’s website by clicking on a link above, or use the Truckster phone app. (Instructions are listed above.) Our food trucks need us! The weather has been forcing many cancellations for them. Thursday should be a nice day, so go get some YUM! COVID-19 GUIDELINES will be strictly followed for everyone at this event.
Ice Safety is Simple: Stay Off
By Einar Jensen, Risk Reduction Specialist, South Metro Fire Rescue. It’s a chilly winter morning and you are walking your dog, Annie, around the neighborhood. Suddenly the dog sees a goose on the ice on Fairview Reservoir, begins barking and pulls away from you. Midway to the goose, the ice breaks and Annie splashes into the water. Sound familiar? Your role, as a resident or bystander is simple. Stay off the ice and call 911. South Metro Fire Rescue’s firefighters are trained and equipped to rescue people and pets from icy lakes and ponds. You are not. You don’t have the training or the special equipment. If your dog runs onto the ice and falls in, stay on shore and call 911. If you see a person after they fell through the ice, call 911. An ice rescue has four deliberate stages: Self-Rescue: If you fall through the ice, find the ice edge where you fell in because it is the strongest. Put your elbows on the ice surface, kick your legs so they float behind you, kick harder to push yourself forward and climb onto ice. Once on the ice, roll on your side to safety. If you can’t kick hard enough to get onto the ice, your arms will freeze on the ice, which will keep your head above the water if you pass out from hypothermia or exhaustion. If someone else has fallen through the ice, coach them through a self-rescue while reminding them that help is on the way. Reach: When they arrive, firefighters will attempt to reach the person or animal with a branch, pole or ladder. Throw: If reaching doesn’t work, firefighters will throw a life ring, life vest, or rope to the person. Go: If needed, firefighters trained and equipped for ice rescue crawl onto the ice to rescue the person or animal. They have special protective suits and equipment, including a rope that connects them to rescuers who remain on shore. Although a sheet of ice may appear strong, it often hides cracks, air pockets and weaker layers that can surprise even the most prepared among us. The best advice: Stay Off the Ice. If a person or animal falls in, call 911.
Posted December 14, 2020
Xcel Energy Recycles working Refrigerators
Plus, you may receive a $50 rebate. Refrigerator RecyclingPosted December 12, 2020
TrailMark Holiday Lights & Car Parade
Saturday, December 12th, 6:30 pm. JOIN THE PARADE! Join us for a car parade through the neighborhood to view TrailMark’s festive decorations! Line up along Holland Street, across from Hogback Hill Park, before 6:30pm (bonus points for decking out your car!). A festive lead car will start the parade at 6:30 pm and lead us through a route that will hit as many decorations as possible. If you don’t want to drive the route, you can watch the cars go by along the route (still to be determined and advertised a few days before the event). GET ON THE MAP! (Deadline has passed.) Get your holiday decorations up and fill out this google form by December 6th to get on the map! We will do our best to hit as many houses on our route as possible! If we miss you on the parade route, this map can be used by families at their own leisure! UPDATE (12/10) For Saturday, Lonnie Somers will have his vehicle parked at the corner of S. Holland and TrailMark Pkwy, and vehicles participating will line up behind him (he will be out greeting and directing prior to the start). Please be in place no later than 6:25pm. Lonnie will be set up by 6pm. Please drive with your flashers on for safety and so we all know who is part of the parade. The course is about 5.6 miles and we would estimate will take about an hour. This will be a lot of fun!!! Don’t forget to deck your cars with boughs of holly (& lights!). The DRIVING ROUTE that hits all the houses that listed is here: https://www.plotaroute.com/route/1366285?units=miles. The next map is a good one that shows each house, house number, and any fun things they want to highlight. Lonnie put in the route here too. It is a bit wonky because it only allows him to add in 10 houses and then he had to start over from the “10th” house as a new route, but it does outline the main route above. This is good for anyone who wants to see the houses at their leisure and/or get more detail on the fun things they have going on. PARADE ROUTE MAP OF HOUSES – If the route is set to go by your house, and you have cars parked out front, we ask you to please have them parked parallel to the curb for the night and not head in. Especially in the cul-de-sacs, so we can turn around. Thank you!
TrailMark Night at the Lights
Tuesday, December 8th, 5:00-8:00 pm, Denver Botanic Gardens Chatfield Farms. SIGN-UP REQUIRED – 100 MORE ENTRANCE SPOTS PER HOUR ADDED! Also, we still need help – Please sign up to volunteer! There are patron limits at the Gardens again, so you MUST sign up and pay in advance to enjoy the lights AND see Santa this year. Please read through all sign-ups carefully, as a separate sign-up is required to see Santa. If you are able to volunteer for part of the evening, please sign up here as well! Night at the Lights Entrance, Santa Sign Up, Volunteer Sign Up. COVID-19 GUIDELINES will be strictly followed for everyone at this event.
Recording of HOA Election Results Special Meeting
December 3, 2020. View Zoom video: https://zoom.us/rec/share/t2CitpRrKJNr8QnQx5t5s4QEZ2Lf1X7pRuqfmBOo60gbE3SW1WgAQeVaSaDPpgLS.-0bvEiYjGz-gDZcr – Passcode: 4jAUtPe^
HOA Election Results
As was announced tonight (December 3), the results are in for the Board election. With 417 votes counted, the HOA had a great turnout and that is always appreciated! The vote was extremely close so the votes were counted twice to ensure accuracy. The HOA would like to thank the 7 volunteers that came in to process and count ballots. Please also thank all 6 candidates for being willing to serve the community. Finally, a big thank you also to the Board members no longer serving; your time and efforts have been immense and greatly appreciated. The HOA Board Results: CJ Haberkorn – 226 votes*, Phil Kinney – 215 votes*, Sally Janssen – 206 votes*, Scott Spinks – 204 votes, Amy Howard – 204 votes, Jennifer Elliott – 196 votes. *The 2021 Board Members are CJ Haberkorn, Phil Kinney, Sally Janssen, Ken Colaizzi and Bill Kuenning.
Posted December 3, 2020
HOA Special Meeting
Thursday, December 3rd, 7:00 pm. Zoom Meeting: https://zoom.us/j/98468236018; Phone: 669-900-9128; Meeting ID: 984 6823 6018. HOA Election Results Announcement Meeting. Ballots were mailed out November 13th. Agenda. All are welcome.
Food Truck Thursday with Online Ordering!
Thursday, December 3rd. 5:00-7:30 pm. DO NOT TRY TO ORDER BEFORE 5 PM. S. Field Way near TrailMark Park SOCIAL DISTANCING IS MANDATORY! Order food AT HOME. Send 1 PERSON to pick it up. Stand 6 feet apart. Go home to eat. NO CONGREGATING AT THE PARK! Respect those who live on that street. For trucks that use Truckster: Download the Truckster app, hit magnifying glass at the bottom, type in the truck name, click on menu button. Other truck links: Go straight to the ordering button. (Some ice cream trucks don’t have an online ordering option.) Links will go live at 5pm. You can’t order until the truck turns the ordering system on. The truck will message you back and tell you when your order will be ready. Then come pick up your food while adhering to social distancing. Food truck selections subject to change. Due to WEATHER, events may be canceled. Please check trailmark.org for cancellation information. FOOD TRUCK(S) FOR DECEMBER 3 – Pink Tank – https://www.eatpinkgettanked.com/, Carlos Kitchen – https://www.clover.com/online-ordering/carlos-kitchen-denver. Order through each business’s website by clicking on a link above, or use the Truckster phone app. (Instructions are listed above.) Food truck selections subject to change. Due to WEATHER, events may be canceled. Please check trailmark.org for cancellation information. COVID-19 GUIDELINES will be strictly followed for everyone at this event.
HOA Feedback/Survey results
A short survey was posted on October 9th, 2020. This survey is now closed. Summary of responses: 18 homeowners returned a response: equaling .02% of owners in the TrailMark HOA. Question #1 – Please outline your top concerns and thoughtful inputs, as they relate to TrailMark HOA. Please be specific and provide as much detail as possible. Answers: summarized. Covenant concerns. Appreciate Board’s work to enforce covenants – reason they bought into the HOA. (5 comments). Asking for more consistent covenant enforcement (1 comment). Concern about comments to relax covenant enforcement and this will hurt property values (3 comments). Board needs to listen to homeowners and take their suggestions to heart and act on some of the suggestions. Examples provided: allow more design freedom for exterior work (screen/security doors, garage lights, concrete walkway designs, and landscaping); design review process is too cumbersome, and therefore people ‘skirt the process.’ (4 comments). Seeking change of leadership (Asking board to be kinder to homeowners, and less threatening, from HOA). (5 comments). Concerns that candidates running for the Board will not enforce covenants and their personal agendas will harm HOA. (6 comments). Concerns that people can bully others on social media, degrade the Board, speak rudely about the Board and HOA, or make unkind comments against other homeowners. This rhetoric hurts the feeling of community in TrailMark. (8 comments). Purchase property from Shea (since payoff of note). (1 comment). Disbanding the HOA entirely. (1 comment). Too many cars parked on the streets. (1 comment). Question #2 – What specific solution(s) would you like to offer for the above noted concern(s)? Enforce HOA regulations as outlined: the way homeowners agreed to when purchasing their home. Remind people about the rules that are in place and were agreed to when purchase was made. Elect new Board members. Revise the DRC process for pre-approved paint colors or other common items (roofs, solar panels, etc). Submit a notice of work so the HOA is aware of the change. Answers via email, not by post mail. Make articles in newsletter more positive, instead of negative. Update DRC guidelines every 5 years. Clarify what needs approval and what does not need approval – DRC item. HOA should ease up during pandemic. Make a rule that a homeowner with a violation within the last 3 years cannot run for the Board. Remind people who are upset about having to follow covenants what a community looks like that is not governed by covenants. Disband the HOA – only keep trash and common area. Disband the DRC and hire outside firm to manage. Revoke $250 fine. More transparency of the Board decision-making processes. Stop being so restrictive, allow more leeway for design preferences. Make it easier for homeowners to remedy an infraction. More recycle days/events. Better parking, no parking signage, more parking enforcement. Increase transparency of DRC. Keep the covenant company and do not listen to those who are not following the rules and want to complain about it.
Posted December 2, 2020
What’s the DRC up to?
Check the newsletter each month to see how the Design Review Committee is updating our design guidelines to address the maturing of the neighborhood. The DRC has recently had several requests for additional signage of address on homes and properties. Two sets of house address numbers are permitted on each lot with only one being on the residence itself. It is recommended that the house number be placed either above the garage door, or to the side of the garage door closest to the front door. Numbers should be no larger than 7 inches in height. If placing address on stone, you should use a plaque with a contrasting background for ease in reading. The DRC received 8 applications from homeowners during the month of November. Seven were approved and one was sent back to the homeowner noting that DRC approval is not required for putting up holiday lights. The DRC continues their discussion regarding swimming pool standards and the defining of minor repairs that may not require DRC approval.
Posted December 1, 2020
TrailMark’s Websites and Pages
Find all of TrailMark’s Websites and Pages, as well as emergency and nonemergency information, on one page.
Posted December 1, 2020
Deadline to return HOA Ballots – November 30, 2020
This year’s election will run a bit differently this year, with the November 12th Annual Meeting being virtual. The voting will not take place during the annual meeting as it normally does. Instead, ballots will be mailed to each home in TrailMark immediately following the meeting. This is to ensure anyone who gets nominated the night of the meeting still has the chance to obtain votes. The ballots will need to be returned by mail or the ballot drop box by November 30, 2020. Ballots delivered or received in the mail after November 30th will not be counted. A ballot drop box will be placed along TrailMark Parkway as you exit the neighborhood. The ballot drop box will be placed outside from 7am-7pm each day. It will be removed each night to ensure no vandalism takes place to the box or ballots. The mailing you will receive will have the ballot, instructions on voting, information about each candidate, and a stamped/return envelope for your ballot. The results of the election will be announced at a Special Meeting to be held Thursday, December 3rd at 7:00pm. This meeting will also be held virtually. The HOA needs volunteers to process and count ballots. If you wish to help with this process, please contact the Property Manager Angie Kelly at akelly@crsofcolorado.com. All are welcome. A summary timeline: Annual Meeting/Budget Ratification Meeting on Thursday, November 12th, Ballots mailed to each home on Friday, November 13th, Ballots to be returned no later than Monday, November 30th (this will be the last day the drop box will be onsite), Ballots counted/processed either December 1st OR 2nd (depends on volunteers’ availability), Election Results Announcement Meeting on Thursday, December 3rd at 7pm, https://zoom.us/j/98468236018, 669-900-9128, Meeting ID: 984 6823 6018
Volunteers Needed!
Volunteers still needed for TrailMark Night at the Lights! Please sign up here: Night at the Lights Entrance, And here: Volunteer Sign Up
Posted November 28, 2020
TrailMark’s CAC Elves decorate the Front Entrance
The TrailMark HOA Board would like to thank all of the Common Area Committee members and volunteers who worked tirelessly on Saturday, November 21st to decorate the front entrance of TrailMark for the holidays. The Common Area Committee decorated the entrance with holiday wreaths and garland to get the neighborhood excited for the holiday season. Again, thank you to all who donated your time and efforts to make the front entrance of TrailMark look so festive. HO HO HO!!!
Posted November 22, 2020
Jeffco Moving to Level Red in CDPHE’s Dial Framework
Effective Friday, Nov. 20 at 5 p.m. the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE) will move several Denver Metro counties, including Jefferson County, to “Level Red – Severe Risk” in the COVID-19 Dial Framework. The COVID-19 Dial Framework has also been modified to include several key updates based on the best available evidence for slowing transmission of the virus. COVID-19 Resources and Information: Jeffco COVID Information, COVID-19 Cases and Data Dashboard, Community Resources, Community Conversations, Mask Guidance, Mental Health Resources
Colorado Recycles Week – November 16-20, 2020
Governor Polis named the third week of November “Colorado Recycles Week!” Visit our Garbage & Recycling page for a list of items accepted by Alpine/GFL. There is also a list of other businesses that take items for recycling.
Holiday Movies are Full of Safety Messages
Einar Jensen, Risk Reduction Specialist, South Metro Fire Rescue. Emergencies don’t stop during the winter holiday season. In fact, many injuries and incidents, from heart attacks to cooking fires, increase between November and January. Watching Christmas movies is one of my holiday traditions and I’ve realized that several of my favorite movies contain safety messages. I hope these movies and their risk reduction tips resonate with you and your families. A Christmas Story. Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer. 1983. It’s so important to buy age-appropriate gifts for children (and adults). A gift in the wrong hands can lead to injured eyes, bonked heads, choking, burns, and other injuries. National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation. Hughes Entertainment. 1989. This movie is ripe with safety messages including making good choices when decorating your homes and businesses with holiday lights. Strings of holiday lights are not designed for permanent installations and make sure the lights outside are designed for outside conditions. The Ref. Touchstone Pictures and Don Simpson/Jerry Bruckheimer Films. 1994. During a dinner scene in this movie, actors wear wreaths with burning candles on their heads in honor of Santa Lucia. That’s not a good idea. Candles should only be used on solid, noncombustible surfaces, and remember to blow out each candle before you leave the room. Die Hard. Gordon Company and Silver Pictures. 1988. It’s easy to take your feet for granted. Wear socks to keep your feet warm and shoes that stabilize your ankles and provide good traction on slippery surfaces. Elf. New Line Cinema. 2003. Sugar! While there tends to be plenty of candy, candy canes, candy corns, and syrup available during the holidays, remember to eat a balanced diet from the mainstream food groups, too. A balanced diet helps prevent diabetes, heart attacks, strokes, and general malaise. Last Holiday. ImageMovers. 2006. There are so many distractions during the holidays that even an open cabinet door can lead to an injury. Instead of wearing a helmet 24/7, be aware of your surroundings and fix potential hazards before an injury occurs. Joyeux Noël. Sony Pictures Classics. 2005. The holidays have a magical way of adding stress to our lives, whether it’s a rush of Black Friday shopping or discussions at the dinner table. This movie reminds us to give it a rest – Let It Go, to reference Disney’s Frozen (2013) – during the holidays. Grant your family members and yourself grace and stop the battles at least for a few hours. It’s a Wonderful Life. Liberty Films. 1946. On a related note, mental wellness is important throughout the year and especially during these winter holidays. If you, a loved one, or coworker is hurting from anxiety, depression, or other ailments, reach out to a therapist, a faith leader, a confidant, suicide prevention helplines such as 1-800-273-8255, or even 911 if you are having an emergency. Finally, I hope we can all consider a modified message from How the Grinch Stole Christmas! (Cat in the Hat Productions 1966). COVID-19 will certainly change plans for most of us, but it can’t stop Christmas, Chanukah, Kwanzaa, or any other winter holiday from coming. Be safe out there and visit www.southmetro.org for other safety tips.
Posted November 19, 2020
Food Truck Thursday with Online Ordering!
Thursday, November 19th, 5:00-7:30 pm. DO NOT TRY TO ORDER BEFORE 5 PM. S. Field Way near TrailMark Park. SOCIAL DISTANCING IS MANDATORY! Trucks that will be available, along with their menu and ordering site, will be posted each week. NO WAITING. NO LINES. JUST ORDER AND PICK IT UP. Order food AT HOME and send 1 PERSON to pick up your order at the designated pick up time. Stand 6 feet apart to pick up food. Go home to eat. NO CONGREGATING AT THE PARK! Please respect the people who live on that street and keep your distance. For trucks that use Truckster: Download the Truckster app, hit magnifying glass at the bottom, type in the truck name, hit on menu button – done. Other truck links: Go straight to the ordering button. (Some dessert trucks don’t have an online ordering option.) Links will go live at 5pm. Many order early so think about ordering late! DO NOT TRY TO ORDER BEFORE 5PM. You can’t order until the truck turns the ordering system on. The truck will message you back and tell you when your order will be ready. Then come pick up your food while adhering to social distancing. Thank you so much for following the guidelines to allow us to continue this opportunity for all! FOOD TRUCKS FOR NOVEMBER 19 – Sizzle American Fusion, Mile High Cajun. Order through each business’s website by clicking on a link above, or use the Truckster phone app. (Instructions are listed above.) Food truck selections subject to change. Due to WEATHER, events may be canceled. Please check this website for cancellation information. COVID-19 GUIDELINES will be strictly followed for everyone at this event.
Zoom Recording of Town Hall available
On Thursday, November 12th, the HOA sponsored a Town Hall, providing homeowners an opportunity to get to know the HOA Board candidates. For those homeowners who could not attend, you may tune into the Zoom recording of that meeting. Go to: https://zoom.us/rec/share/C3kV5yi6i9U9RI6wlS2KNGSecGAASIWLJ8to4W_pWeJ8QgpPrVUD9shB81XSbGE_.K9ddOubYAnPC9mtn?startTime=1605230480000. And enter passcode: RZL8^RML. If you have any questions, please send them to board@trailmarkhoa.org. Election ballots are being received throughout the community. Please take the time to submit your ballot either by mailing it in the stamped envelope that came with the ballot, or drop off your ballot in the ballot box posted on TrailMark Parkway, close to the fire station. Signs will direct you to the ballot box.
Posted November 18, 2020
Sally, Amy and Phil – Preserving the Enhanced Quality of Life for TrailMark
Download HOA Candidates flyer here.
Posted November 17, 2020
A letter from the Editor
Neighbors, At Thursday night’s Town Hall of HOA candidates, communications for the neighborhood of TrailMark was brought up. Some candidates mentioned that there has to be more communication “outside of Facebook.” The current HOA communicates in the following manner. First and foremost, the website at trailmark.org. This is updated in real time with the most current issues and events happening in our neighborhood. Every resident of TrailMark is encouraged to sign up for the monthly newsletter, and other email, which the HOA board emails out to the community. For those who don’t have internet access, the monthly newsletter is printed and posted on two bulletin boards – one at TrailMark Park and one at Hogback Hill Park. Aside from the formats mentioned above, we post the same information on two social media sites: Facebook (the HOA page at this link, please be sure you are on the right Facebook page as there are others out there that use the TrailMark name but are not associated with the HOA) and NextDoor. Anyone with a computer or cell phone can access this information. In contrast to what was said at the HOA Town Hall meeting, multiple formats are employed to disseminate important information in a timely matter. Linda Jagiello, chair, TrailMark HOA Communications
Posted November 13, 2020
Risk Reduction Specialist to contribute to TrailMark Communications outlets
TrailMark welcomes Einar Jensen, Risk Reduction Specialist for South Metro Fire Rescue at Station #19. Einar brings a wealth of expertise and experience with fire safety, injury prevention, disaster preparedness, and much more. Einar will be a contributor to our newsletter and other news outlets, on a variety of subjects, and will attend some of our HOA Board meetings. We are very fortunate to have Einar join our TrailMark family. Welcome to TrailMark, Einar!!
Posted November 12, 2020
TrailMark Metropolitan District (TMMD) Meeting / Public Hearing
The Metro District will hold a Public Hearing on November 12th to consider the 2021 Budget. The meeting will be held by Zoom and begins at 6:30 p.m. (Zoom link: https://zoom.us/j/92393503059#success) This meeting immediately precedes the Annual HOA Meeting. We look forward to seeing you. TMMD Agenda, Proposed 2021 Budget, Projected Cash Balances 2021-2026. Contact Cathy Noon, District Manager for more details. cnoon@crsofcolorado.com, 303-381-4990
2020 HOA/TMMD Annual Meeting
Thursday, November 12th. The Metro District (TMMD) will meet at 6:30 pm, and the HOA will meet at 7:00 pm (immediately following the Metro meeting). There will be a moderated hour-long TOWN HALL of HOA candidates at the end of the HOA meeting. This year’s meeting will be on Zoom – https://zoom.us/j/92393503059 or via Phone (346) 248-7799 with meeting ID – 923 9350 3059. This meeting is held to ratify the 2021 HOA budget as well as present the Board of Director candidates for the HOA. There are three (3) positions open on the Board this year. If you are interested in running for the Board, please contact the Property Manager Angie Kelly of CRS at akelly@crsofcolorado.com. The election will run a bit differently this year, with the meeting being virtual. Please be sure to return proxies (we still need a quorum)! The voting will not take place during the Annual Meeting as it normally does. Instead, ballots will be mailed to each home in TrailMark immediately following the meeting. This is to ensure anyone who gets nominated the night of the meeting still has the chance to obtain votes. The ballots will need to be returned by mail or the ballot drop box by November 30, 2020. Ballots delivered or received in the mail after November 30th will not be counted. A ballot drop box will be placed along TrailMark Parkway as you exit the neighborhood. The ballot drop box will be placed outside from 7am-7pm each day. It will be removed each night to ensure no vandalism takes place to the box or ballots. The mailing you will receive will have the ballot, instructions on voting, information about each candidate, and a stamped/return envelope for your ballot. The results of the election will be announced at a Special Meeting to be held Thursday, December 3rd at 7:00pm. This meeting will also be held virtually. The HOA needs volunteers to process and count ballots. If you wish to help with this process, please contact the Property Manager Angie Kelly at akelly@crsofcolorado.com. All are welcome. A summary timeline: Annual Meeting/Budget Ratification Meeting on Thursday, November 12th, Ballots mailed to each home on Friday, November 13th, Ballots to be returned no later than Monday, November 30th (this will be the last day the drop box will be onsite), Ballots counted/processed either December 1st OR 2nd (depends on volunteers’ availability), Election Results Announcement Meeting on Thursday, December 3rd at 7pm. TMMD – TMMD Agenda, Proposed 2021 Budget, Projected Cash Balances 2021-2026. HOA – HOA Agenda (updated), Notice of Budget Ratification and Annual Meeting, 2021 Budget, Proxy
Show Gratitude this Thanksgiving by cooking with caution
By Einar Jensen, Risk Reduction Specialist, South Metro Fire Rescue. Thanksgiving is a holiday known for cooking and eating. Thanksgiving typically unites friends and family to cook together, eat together, and wonder how we ate so much together. Although the number of people who unite in each home should be lower this year because of COVID-19, those who do come together have an opportunity to show their appreciation for one another by cooking safely. Cooking fires are the leading cause of home fires and fire injuries, according to the National Fire Protection Association. Three times as many cooking fires happen on Thanksgiving than any other day. The most common factor in these cooking fires is leaving the area where you are simmering, boiling, frying, grilling, or broiling food. Stand by your pan and watch what you heat. That way, if a small fire does occur, you can react quickly and safely to extinguish it. Either smother the flames with a lid or turn off the heat to the appliance. If you cook with the kitchen window open, you can keep small wisps of smoke from finding their way to the home’s smoke alarms. However, if the smoke alarm does activate, go outside to your family meeting place, make sure everyone is safe, and if needed call 911. If you’re confident the smoke was from the kitchen, send one person inside to verify the source and start clearing the kitchen and hallway of smoke. Here are some other tips for cooking with caution: Maintain a kid- and pet-free zone within three feet of the stove, grill, and places hot food may be staged before serving. While serving food, help kids test and cool their food to prevent burns. Keep knives in places young hands can’t reach. Be careful reaching into dishwater and dishwaters if blades are present. Move combustibles away from burners. Position the grill at least 3 feet away from walls and move it from under eaves. Use turkey fryers outside on a sturdy, level surface. Determine the correct amount of oil for a fryer by first placing the turkey in the pot with water. Partially frozen turkeys cause hot oil to splatter. Thaw the bird completely before lowering it into the fryer. If a fire or injury does occur that you can’t handle yourself, please call 911. Our stations are fully staffed on Thanksgiving with firefighters ready to help you. If you have questions about any safety topics, please visit www.southmetro.org or find our agency on social media.
Posted November 12, 2020
Littleton Affected by COVID Increases and New Health Orders
The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE) notified Arapahoe County (the county for most of Littleton), the Tri-County Health Department, and all of the cities within the county that the sharp increase in COVID incidence rates requires moving from Level Yellow to Level Orange: High Risk, effective Wednesday, November 11 at 5 p.m. Restrictions will be implemented across all sectors as described in Section II.E of Public Health Order 20-36. As of today, the county’s incidence rates are: Percent positivity: 10.15%, 2-week COVID-19 case count (new cases): 4,050. The increasing positivity rate has also impacted the City of Littleton with confirmed cases among employees in the Littleton Police Department, the Littleton Center, as well as the Municipal Court. As a result, the Littleton Municipal Court is closed through November 27 and cases scheduled during this time will be continued to future dates in December. The court will mail notices with the new dates to the affected parties. Online payments can be made at www.littletoncocourtpmts.com. The court clerk can be reached by phone at 303-795-3837 or at courtweb@littletongov.org. Police staffing will continue at normal operational levels while the Littleton Center is open by appointment only. Bemis Library has reduced its capacity to 50 people at a time in the building and computer use is limited to one hour per person, per day. Visitors may have to wait to enter and are asked to keep visits short. Curbside pickup service is encouraged and is available by calling 303-795-3961. All returned library materials are quarantined for 72 hours per guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and the American Library Association. The Littleton Museum is also reducing the number of visitors to 50 per hour. Reservations are required and can be made by calling 303-795-3950. Since COVID began, contract and in-house custodial staff have focused on disinfecting common areas regularly and have fogged all areas when an exposure was identified. The Littleton Police and dispatch spaces are fogged twice weekly. All police vehicles and Omnibuses are treated with a long-acting polymer disinfectant. Bi-polar ionization equipment has been installed in central HVAC systems at the Littleton Center, Municipal Courthouse, Library and Museum which actively mitigates pathogens throughout the buildings. All city employees must check their temperature before entering their building and those who can work remotely are doing so. The CDPHE can move the county to a more restrictive level at any point if circumstances warrant more aggressive restrictions. Should the county metrics improve during the more restrictive phase, the county would need to maintain those metrics for at least two weeks to move to a less restrictive phase. The Littleton City Council and staff ask every resident to do their part to stop the spread. Editor’s note: Jefferson County moved to Safer at Home Orange on November 9th. Review a comparative chart of every level: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1Wpq8MrsvtY0_jW07mWCLmVXtv4P_wFR2/view
Posted November 10, 2020
Food Truck Thursday with Online Ordering!
Thursday, November 5th, 5:00-7:30 pm, DO NOT TRY TO ORDER BEFORE 5 PM, S. Field Way near TrailMark Park. SOCIAL DISTANCING IS MANDATORY! Trucks that will be available, along with their menu and ordering site, will be posted each week. NO WAITING. NO LINES. JUST ORDER AND PICK IT UP. Order food AT HOME and send 1 PERSON to pick up your order at the designated pick up time. Stand 6 feet apart to pick up food. Go home to eat. NO CONGREGATING AT THE PARK! Please respect the people who live on that street and keep your distance. For trucks that use Truckster: Download the Truckster app, hit magnifying glass at the bottom, type in the truck name, hit on menu button – done. Other truck links: Go straight to the ordering button. (Some dessert trucks don’t have an online ordering option.) Links will go live at 5pm. Many order early so think about ordering late! DO NOT TRY TO ORDER BEFORE 5PM. You can’t order until the truck turns the ordering system on. The truck will message you back and tell you when your order will be ready. Then come pick up your food while adhering to social distancing. Thank you so much for following the guidelines to allow us to continue this opportunity for all! FOOD TRUCKS FOR NOVEMBER 5 – California Wrap Runner, The Burger Bus. Order through each business’s website by clicking on a link above, or use the Truckster phone app. (Instructions are listed above.) Food truck selections subject to change. Due to WEATHER, events may be canceled. Please check this website for cancellation information. COVID-19 GUIDELINES will be strictly followed for everyone at this event.
Responses to questions on the HOA Facebook page
Homeowner, CJ Haberkorn, posted the following: Sally Janssen do you and the board have a final disposition of the individual who was arrest at the end of Danzig and Johnson on Halloween? 1. We are not aware of a Halloween arrest anywhere in TrailMark, and there is no indication on the Littleton Crime Map. 2. Per City of Littleton Police: a. A Suspicious Incident complaint was reported on W Eden Place, to which the police responded. No arrest was made. b. If you want more detail, you can request a report from the police department. 3. Your statement, implying that the Board would have, and disseminate, a “final disposition” on a police/civil matter shows that you clearly think that a Board duty is to delve into police/civil matters. Whereas, the Board is deeply concerned about Community safety, it also respects privacy in such matters. If there is a Community safety-related issue, the Board certainly educates and alerts the appropriate parties, which might include: Residents, third parties and the authorities. TrailMark HOA Board, board@trailmarkhoa.org. This Facebook post was forwarded to Susie Ellis, TrailMark Covenant Compliance Manager. Her response is below the post. CJ Haberkorn. Sally Janssen ok Sally, question for you: What specific criteria is she, Susie, looking for? I have witnessed her drive and randomly take pics. Just curious to what guidance or paradigm she uses? Is that something that is available to us? That may help if we had the same checklist. When you move into any covenant controlled community everyone is informed at their closing of the fact that there are rules and restrictions to be followed or a “check list” as you call it. Those rules and restrictions, in the form of your governing documents or CCRs (Covenants, Conditions and Restrictions), come with oversight or inspections to make sure they are followed. Sometimes people hurry through their closing and don’t take the time to read them. The good thing is that those rules (checklist) are always available to all residents through the website. They can be download or printed for convenience. The CCRs are the checklist against which I conduct inspections. If you ever have a question about them let me know and I can assist. Susie, Code/Covenant Compliance, 303.422.4473
Posted November 5, 2020
Proxies Needed
The annual HOA meeting is on Thursday, November 12th. We need 80 proxies for the meeting! Thanks to all who have already submitted their proxies, and to those who plan to attend the Zoom meeting! If you won’t be joining in, proxies may be mailed, or for your convenience you may drop off your proxy under the mat at 9718 S Johnson Way, or in the red cooler at 8770 W Eden Drive. Thank you! HOA Board.
Download Proxy here
Posted November 4, 2020
2020 TrailMark HOA Board of Director Candidates
Read the TrailMark HOA candidate bios here. If you are interested in running for the Board, please contact the Property Manager Angie Kelly of CRS at akelly@crsofcolorado.com.
Posted November 1, 2020; Updated November 3, 2020
TrailMark Common Area Committee (CAC) looking for a couple of additional members for 2021
MISSION – The mission of the TrailMark Common Area Committee is to promote community enjoyment of the landscaped and natural surroundings of TrailMark with a strong dedication to preserving and protecting the natural environment of the arid, high plains ecosystem. VISION – Nature Preservation. Strive to preserve the natural beauty and protect the delicate ecosystems of the common areas of TrailMark, including involvement with the pond systems, wetlands, wildlife and natural prairies. TrailMark HOA Common Area Management. Manage planning, improving and maintenance of the HOA Common Area. Coordinate the annual Holiday Lights and install/place wreaths, garlands and decor on the entrance monuments. Community Involvement. Promote community involvement through volunteer enhancement and beautification projects and resident monitoring of open space and other undeveloped areas of TrailMark. Keep residents informed by submitting articles to the newsletter and posting information on the TrailMark website. Work with Linking Entities. Work closely with South Suburban Parks & Recreation, TrailMark Metropolitan District, and the City of Littleton in the planning, improving and maintenance of the open spaces of TrailMark. This would include oversight of work conducted by subcontractors and reporting to the HOA Board of any work not performed to the standards set in their contracts. Promote regional awareness and cooperation by being a liaison with our neighbors: Jefferson County Open Space, Denver Botanic Gardens at Chatfield, Chatfield State Park and Army Corp of Engineers. If you are interested in joining the CAC, please contact Mary Kreeger at secretary@trailmarkhoa.org.
Posted November 1, 2020
Who’s on 1st? What’s on 2nd?
Are you a little confused who is responsible for the different areas and items in TrailMark? It is confusing when there are so many different entities responsible for different areas. We hope that the following will help: City of Littleton: All streets except private streets in Star Canyon. Police, street sweeping, snow plowing. Manages street signs. Jefferson County: Hildebrand Open Space that surrounds most of TrailMark and its trail system(s). South Suburban Parks and Recreation: All trails inside TrailMark except inside Star Canyon. All open space within the TrailMark community. Athletic field and park area. South side of TrailMark Parkway from entrance to South Flower Way. TrailMark Metro District: All reservoirs and ponds. Painting on all split rail fencing* along trails and open space. *(splitting the maintenance cost 50% with TM HOA). Maintaining the land along the holding ponds. TrailMark HOA: All privacy fencing and landscaping along TrailMark Parkway and South Independence Street. Repairs all split rail fencing* along trails and open space. *(splitting the maintenance cost 50% with TMMD) Trash collection for the community. Common Area landscaping. Social Committee events. Shea Homes: Building site to the north of the entrance. South Metro: Fire station near the entrance/exit to the community. Homeowner: All property within their property lines (corner lots own property between fence and sidewalk). ANY changes to the exterior of the home or property must receive PRIOR APPROVAL from the DRC. TrailMark CAC (Common Area Committee)
Posted November 1, 2020
From the Design Review Committee: Fall Winterization
Fall is here and many homeowners are preparing to paint their fences. In response to one homeowner’s inquiry, below is the Sherwin Williams paint formula for TrailMark perimeter fences (not wing fences). Homeowners may paint all fences except the wing fences the same color as the open space fences. Homeowners on open space are responsible for painting only the inside of the fence. Those planning to update their wing and/or perimeter fences (fences between properties) with stain, the TrailMark approved options are: A clear, waterproof sealant. Sherwin Williams WoodScapes Semi-Transparent Stain – Slight pigmentation for increased protection. SW3504 Woodridge, SW3522 Banyan Brown (view samples here). The natural, untreated finish is no longer an approved fencing option. It has been determined that the long-term wear and tear of this option does not provide an attractive appearance. Project Request: As with all exterior projects, staining/painting fences must be submitted and approved by the DRC prior to initiation of the project: Submit your request using the TrailMark HOA Home Improvement Request Form found on the HOA website. Download the form at: https://www.trailmark.org/uploads/3/9/0/8/39089355/hoa_home_improvement_request_form_201704.pdf. Documents should be submitted to Community Resource Services of Colorado, LLC via mail, email, or fax. Please forward all relevant documents to the following: Phone: 303-381-4980 for information, Email: designreview@trailmarkhoa.org, Mail: Community Resource Services of Colorado, LLC, 7995 East Prentice Avenue, Suite 103E, Greenwood Village, CO 80111, Fax: 303-381-4961. The DRC reviews requests the 1st and 3rd week of each month. All requests should be received by the management company, by 12:00 noon, the Friday previous to the DRC meeting to ensure their expeditious review. Failure to provide complete information to the DRC will delay the review of your request. If documentation is absent from the request, it will be returned to the homeowner, asking that additional information be submitted in writing. DRC Reviews: The DRC reviewed 22 Home Improvement Requests in September, and 26 in October.
Posted November 1, 2020
TM5K and Mike Elbeck Family Fun Run results and photos
Thank you to all who came out to run and walk at the TM5K and Mike Elbeck Family Fun Run. Results for the 5K are at https://halsports.net/event/tm5k-family-fun-run-2020/. Thank you to Lonnie and Michelle Somers and HAL Sports for putting on a great event! Also, thanks to Darcy Hickman, Lindsay Bazz, Debbie Elbeck, and Jennifer Elliott for supporting the event and volunteering. Thank you to our social committee for assisting in the event. Special thanks to Kristin Blasi Photography for sponsoring and taking amazing photos of this event. This event honors family. Something Mike was always about and that family included neighbors, friends, and those that sometimes didn’t know they needed help, but he was always there. #WeMissMike. View all photos at https://kristinblasiphotography.pixieset.com/trailmark5k2020/. Use the following 4-digit PIN to download photos: 7411. This collection will be online until January 20th, 2021
Posted November 1, 2020
Electronics Recycling and Dumpster Event a Success!
The recycle and dumpster event was a huge success. Thank you to all the homeowners who came out with items and thank you to the HOA Board for making it happen. After a great idea by resident Nancy Yanasak for an electronics recycle and dumpster day event, the Board took the idea and made it happen. Thank you to Nancy and her husband for all the help the day of the event (they helped many of you unload your goods!). Also, a big thank you to Board members Sally Janssen, Amy Howard, Mary Kreeger, and Bill Kuenning for lending helping hands at the event also. Board candidate Phil Kinney stopped by to help manage traffic too. Susie Ellis, with CPS, was on hand to help unload cars and direct traffic too! The event was such a success and many homeowners were able to unload items they had spent much of the pandemic cleaning out from the basement! Be on the lookout for future recycling events and dumpster days! Note: There were a few residents who, in the dark of night, dumped their non-acceptable items for the HOA to deal with. We set up a nice service for the Community, and everyone was wonderful except for these few residents. Those who felt that unloading their ILLEGALLY DUMPED items off on the rest of us are the people who will cause events like these to be reconsidered in the future. The HOA incurred additional expense to rent a truck to haul off those excess items that were either heaved into the dumpster and had to be removed, or were piled around the dumpster. Furthermore, paint cans were dropped off, requiring a Sunday trip to gather the cans and properly dispose of them. This is intended to be a reoccurring service for our residents. Please, support the service and don’t abuse it.
Posted October 25, 2020; Updated November 1, 2020
Keeping Halloween safe and fun in 2020
Judging from the cooperation of TrailMark residents during past events this year, the HOA is hopeful that we as a neighborhood can exercise safe trick-or-treating practices on Halloween. Here are a few tips to make it safe and fun for everyone: Trick-or-Treaters – What would Halloween be without costumes and candy? Keep these social distancing best practices in mind to keep everyone safe. Stay home if sick, Trick-or-treat with people you live with, Remain 6 feet apart from people not in your household, Wear a face mask covering BOTH your mouth and nose (even under/over your Halloween mask), Hand sanitize (with sanitizer containing at least 60% alcohol) frequently while out, especially during key times like before eating or after coughing/sneezing, Wash your hands as soon as you return home. Homeowners – The traditional Halloween decorations might look a little bit different this year. Check out these tips to create a safe celebration setup for your neighborhood ghosts and monsters. Do not hand out candy if you are sick, Wear a face mask covering BOTH your mouth and nose, Take the Safe House pledge and register as an official Halloween Safe House, Use duct tape to mark 6-foot lines in front of your home and leading to you driveway/front door, Position a distribution table between yourself and trick-or-treaters, Distribute candy on a disinfected table to eliminate direct contact, Wash hands often. Parents – If you’re like most parents, safety is always top of mind this time of year. Here are a few tricks to keep your children safe and ensure a fun time is had by all. Stay home if sick, Talk with your children about safety and social distancing guidelines and expectations, Guide children to stay on the right side of the road always to ensure distance, Carry a flashlight at night and ensure your children are wearing reflective clothing, Wear a face mask covering BOTH your mouth and nose, Wash your hands as soon as you return home, Inspect candy. For more information, including a map and other tools showing the Covid-19 risk level in our community, click here.
Whether you plan to hand out treats or take a pass this year, here are a couple of signs that might be useful on Halloween. Click on the images to enlarge and print, and have a safe and happy Halloween!
A map of homes that are giving out treats in TrailMark
UPDATE: This map was created as a gauge for homeowners and trick-or-treaters alike to decide if there would be enough interest to take part in trick-or-treating this year. We now see that there will be much participation, but please keep in mind that there are some participating homes that are not on this map. There were some questions about the level of participation in TrailMark due to the current situation this year. Well, looks like TrailMark has a lot of the Halloween Spirit! Please be sure to stay safe and follow the COVID-19 GUIDELINES. If you would like to add your home to this map, please email your address to communications@trailmarkhoa.org.
From your HOA Board:
Recently, there have been allegations of mismanagement, unfair/unequal administration of covenant violations, and the appeal process. The following message was prepared by our covenant compliance manager, Susie Ellis, in answer to the allegations. We hope that this information will help all better understand the process for leveling violations and potential fines for non-compliance with our covenants: October 29, 2020. To All, I haven’t been following the emails and certainly not Facebook or any kind of social media. I stay out of the politics so I can objectively enforce your regulations in a fair manner. I don’t know who is on this email because I can’t possibly remember the thousands of names and emails, I work with monthly. The information being distributed is so very wrong, and I’m not sure why anyone would distribute such skewed details without first verifying the facts unless their intentions were to be destructive. An enforcement report is provided at every meeting, and everyone is entitled to see it or have access to it. They can also ask any questions they would like about the report as I am almost always there to answer them during the meetings. I will never get specific to protect your residents’ privacy, but I am always willing to help anyone with general questions. A simple way to provide your residents with the facts is to encourage them to look at the report. This will tell you exactly how many cases have been opened and how many resulted in which fines. Remember that the fines reflected on the report may change as hearings take place. Know that I personally and at the direction of the Board work hard to help residents comply with your CC&Rs as well as your Design Guidelines by providing information, resources, hearings, and extended time to resolve matters. This is clearly the case judging by the report. Yes, all 375 cases (actual number) could have resulted in a fine of some kind, and we could have sent many of them to legal for further action, including foreclosure, but we did not. Why, because the very last thing the Board wants is to invoke punitive measures. There have only been 10 properties that received a potential fine notice in 2020 thus far and most of those were residents who disregarded the requirement to obtain approval prior to work, improvements, or changes on their property. These were not about the project but about the lack of approval prior. They were simple decisions because it was a question of did they or didn’t they start their project without approval? I do not believe we’ve even reached $1,000.00 in fines thus far. What does that mean? It means a lot of hard work through enforcement, Management and Board efforts. A lot of conversations and emails with residents, working with them, following up, explanations, information, education, extra inspections, public outreach, time discussing matters with member of the Board etc. We also work side by side with the City Code Enforcement Department and their staff as they are sometimes called into the community by residents to enforce their City codes that as you know are often different from your community rules. Each one of the potential fines comes with an opportunity for a hearing before the fine is imposed. Some of the owners simply paid the fine because they feel it is fair. Others take their opportunity for a hearing because they either disagreed with the potential fine or they wanted to explain their unique and often very personal circumstances in hopes to have the fine dismissed. If and when a fine is necessary it is only due to lack of response (several letters are sent), lack of approval, lack of effort to remedy a violation within a reasonable period of time or the owner has disregarded the extension I provided and simply stopped efforts all together. I receive many calls from residents who follow the rules asking why a violation still exists and why heavy fines have not been imposed. Fines are a part of your documents and are there to deter and motivate. The Board must make tough decisions about fines. They have those who are angry about them being imposed even though it is for a legitimate reason and then those who are angry that they are not being aggressive enough by imposing more fines. The Board works hard to find a balance, but they cannot please everyone. The Board wants nothing more than to keep the community maintained, attractive, and enjoyable for their residents by working with residents not against them. They trust that I will consider all of the circumstances regarding a violation and provide additional time and resources needed because that is what they have asked me to do, all while balancing the fact that they also are trying to meet the expectations of the rest of the community by fulfilling their enforcement obligation set forth in your By-Laws. They try to do this in a fair and equitable way but unfortunately, fair and equable is not what some people want because it interferes with their ability to do whatever they want. This upsets a few, causes them to go to social media, and lash out. Trust me when I say that you could end up with some horrible situations at the property next door if we allowed everyone to do whatever they wanted and without permission. The oversight seems intrusive at the time, but residents will appreciate it when it is needed next to them, behind or across from them. Fair and equitable is what most want, signed up for, and expect to receive without having to ask. Please remember the Board is obligated to enforce the rules whether they like them or not. Each person/owner who moved into the community moved in knowing full well that they would have this type of protection. They knew there were laws set in place that would protect them from rogue property owners who burden the community with unsightliness, hazardous situations, and out of character changes and improvements. They moved in, hoping for and appreciating the proactive enforcement that will help them protect their property values and allow them to come home to a beautiful community with pride and joy. I personally and the Board wants everyone to love living in TrailMark not only for its natural backdrop but for its beautiful and well-maintained homes and properties. The Board wants everyone to feel comfortable and proud to be a TrailMark resident and enjoy the neighborly nature of the community. They want everyone to pull up in their driveway and feel comfortable waving to their neighbor, knowing that someone else is behind the scenes taking care of the dirty work. I talk with most everyone in your community for some reason or another. Sometimes it is because I had to issue a notice for a violation, and the resident called to ask questions and let me know what their intentions are. Sometimes it is because a resident is very upset with their neighbor or someone down the street who is either interfering with the enjoyment of their property or doing something that is not allowed. They do not want to confront their neighbor because they want to maintain a friendly relationship and have a beer after work or let their kids play together. This is where I step in, and my company’s approach is very much aligned with the TrailMark’s HOA. The Board wants me to enforce regulations proactively, so no one has to call and complain about their neighbor. They want me to work with residents to remedy their violations before fines must be imposed. They want me to be available and helpful with questions and concerns. They want me to make sure we are fair and equitable. They want me to follow through with open cases until they are resolved. They want me to mediate and explain the practical and objective side of enforcement. They sometimes ask for my professional advice based on my experience, knowledge, education, and how other communities handle these situations (trust me, TM is not unique). They don’t always like what Angie, or I have to tell them, but it’s the law, and until the rules change, it has to be that way. Working in this industry for over 30 years, I can tell you that you are lucky to have such a wonderful place to live, work, and play. I also deal with the worst of the worst in municipal government through code enforcement. I try to help property owners who must deal with terrible unsightly and unmaintained properties surrounding them with awful looking junk yards, additions, colors, treehouses, shed, decks, etc. They tell me all the time if only they chose the covenant-controlled community, something they didn’t think they wanted, and thought was intrusive and overbearing. Well, they are now dealing with terrible neighbors who do not care about anyone but themselves. They hate coming home to the mess they have to look at next door or down the street. They want to sell and get out, but their realtor has told them that they have to lower their value significantly because of the property next door. The one with all of the debris, large campers and trailers, the peeling paint, broken shutters, crumbling tree house, sagging porch, purple hand railing, Denver Bronco themed garage door, falling fences, and dead landscaping. All things I cannot help them with unless they have covenants and a Board willing to be proactive and remediation driven. Your community is wonderful because of all the rules and deterring fines you have in place and the enforcement behind them, not despite them. I don’t usually get personal in my emails but I am the President of my HOA for most of 25 years. I would be really upset if I had residents distributing false and inflammatory information about the Board and its activities. Unless residents have taken the time to attend every meeting and be a part of every conversation, no one can possibly know or understand the hard work and effort it takes to meet all expectations and try to please everyone at the risk of pleasing no one. I’ve attached the latest enforcement report for your convenience. As you can see by the report that is available to everyone at every meeting the numbers provided by one of residents must not be TrailMark’s numbers but maybe from another community? I don’t believe the City has imposed fines like that either so my guess is as good as yours. Always feel free to contact me if you have any questions or concerns or need good reliable information. Have a great day. Susie, Code/Covenant Compliance, 303.422.4473
A Message from the City of Littleton
The TrailMark HOA is pleased to share a message sent by the City of Littleton. It is evident that your Board’s efforts are recognized and appreciated by the City of Littleton. Your HOA Board works diligently with our homeowners, residents and partners to keep TrailMark a unique and desirable community in which to live. The HOA has detractors who, with little or no effort to work with the Board, make unwarranted, incorrect, and nasty accusations and comments on social media. Be assured, your Board labors to rise above the fray, and work on your behalf. View message from the City of Littleton
Posted October 28, 2020
Missed Trash Pick-up
UPDATE: Alpine/GFL was spotted in the neighborhood at 7:40 am on Wednesday, October 28th. Due to a possible weather delay on Tuesday, October 27th, trash pick-up was missed in the front section of TrailMark. Please bring in your missed trash cans tonight and put them back out by 7:00 am Wednesday morning. We will be in contact with Alpine when they open at 7:30 am; however, they may enter the neighborhood as early as 7:00 am. https://alpinewaste.com/
TrailMark Electronic Recycling & large item Dumpster Event
Saturday, October 24, 10:00 am to 2:00 pm, S. Field Way near TrailMark Park. UPDATE: The first dumpster is full, but another DUMPSTER is on the way! It will be at Hogback Hill Park at around 11:45. Still taking electronics on South Field Way. After all the time at home in quarantine, we know some house cleaning and organizing must have taken place! Therefore, to help get rid of all the items you uncovered in your home, the HOA will host an electronic recycle day. The event will be held on Saturday, October 24 from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm in the same location that the food trucks park, along South Field Way near TrailMark Park. The event will have a drop-off for electronics. Listed below are the items that can be dropped off. There is a $25 charge for each TV dropped off.* Please note this will be charged to the homeowner dropping it off. The company can take cash or credit. They will collect the $25 at the time of drop-off. All other electronics are covered in the cost of the event, hosted by the HOA. The HOA will also have a large roll-off dumpster onsite. This will be for any large household items you wish to get rid of. NOT for electronics. NOT for yard waste. NOT for waste that should be picked up by the trash provider. This is intended for large household items only. We do not want to fill it with items that should be going out with the trash service! *TVs are an additional charge of $25 regardless or size or shape, paid by the homeowner when dropped off. Items Electronics Recycling 3 Collects: Adding Machines, All-in-One PCs, Computers, Cameras, CD Players, Cell Phones, Copiers, CRT Monitors, CRT TVs, Desktop Phones, DVD – VCRs, DVRs, Fax Machines, Flat Panel Monitors, Flat Panel TVs, Game Consoles, Gaming Systems, Hard Drives, Hubs, Keyboards, Laptops, Mice, Modems, MP3 Players, Network Switches, Optical Drives, PCs, Phone Systems, Printers, Projection TVs, Remote Controls, Routers, Servers, Small Appliances, Software – Games, Stereos – Speakers, Surge Protectors, Toner, Two-way Radios, Typewriters, UPS, Restaurant Appliances, Washers and dryers, Kitchen appliances. All data containing items (hard drives etc.) are processed through a shredder for assured destruction. The only items they do not accept are smoke/co detectors and light bulbs. NOTE: Due to the need for multiple trucks and dumpsters, and space availability, disposal of items other than electronics and large household items could not be scheduled this fall. To further assist homeowners and residents in your clean-out efforts, the HOA Board is planning a spring clean-up that will include disposal of items such as paint / batteries / chemicals. Please stay tuned for this event. COVID-19 GUIDELINES will be strictly followed for everyone at this event.
TrailMark Median plans
Click here to view plans for the medians in TrailMark.
Posted October 19, 2020
TM5K & Mike Elbeck Family Fun Run
Sunday, October 18th, 8:30-11:30 am, Hogback Hill Park. 9:30 am – 5K Start (first group, following groups every 5 minutes); 11:00 am – Mike Elbeck Family Fun Run Start, approx 1 mile (first group, following groups every 5 minutes). Enjoy the beauty of fall and TrailMark, All participants receive a custom shirt, Surprise gift to all participants, Costume contest, Free Photos, Virtual option. Register here. COVID-19 GUIDELINES will be strictly followed for everyone at this event. We are looking for sponsors from neighborhood business owners. If you are interested in sponsoring part of the event, please email the Social Committee at social@trailmarkhoa.org.
Caution: Event to use some Streets in TrailMark
On Sunday, October 18th from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. the TrailMark 5K will be taking place. It will be utilizing some neighborhood streets and crossings. Drive with caution. We will have traffic control staff for ensuring safety of all. Here is a map of the route: https://www.plotaroute.com/route/1255573?units=miles
Current HOA Board to be at TM5K and Fun Run
The current HOA board is going to have a table set up at the TM5K & Mike Elbeck Family Fun Run on Sunday, October 18th. We encourage neighbors to come up and say hi and ask questions to the current HOA board members. We’d also like to let residents know that incumbents, Sally Janssen and Amy Howard will be running for the upcoming HOA election.
Food Truck Thursday with new Online Ordering!
Thursday, October 15th, 5:00-7:30 pm. DO NOT TRY TO ORDER BEFORE 5 PM. S. Field Way near TrailMark Park. SOCIAL DISTANCING IS MANDATORY! Trucks that will be available, along with their menu and ordering site, will be posted each week. NO WAITING. NO LINES. JUST ORDER AND PICK IT UP. Order food AT HOME and send 1 PERSON to pick up your order at the designated pick up time. Stand 6 feet apart to pick up food. Go home to eat. NO CONGREGATING AT THE PARK! Please respect the people who live on that street and keep your distance. For trucks that use Truckster: Download the Truckster app, hit magnifying glass at the bottom, type in the truck name, hit on menu button – done. Other truck links: Go straight to the ordering button. (Some dessert trucks don’t have an online ordering option.) Links will go live at 5pm. Many order early so think about ordering late! DO NOT TRY TO ORDER BEFORE 5PM. You can’t order until the truck turns the ordering system on. The truck will message you back and tell you when your order will be ready. Then come pick up your food while adhering to social distancing. Thank you so much for following the guidelines to allow us to continue this opportunity for all! FOOD TRUCKS FOR OCTOBER 15 – Chuey Fu’s, The Dapper Doughnut (order at truck). Order through each business’s website by clicking on a logo below, or use the Truckster phone app. (Instructions are listed above.) Food truck selections subject to change. COVID-19 GUIDELINES will be strictly followed for everyone at this event.
Regular Garbage Pick-up Day
Tuesday, October 13th. No delay due to the Columbus/Cabrini Day holiday.
A list of Recycling Businesses …fyi
ELECTRONICS RECYCLING – Techno Rescue; HAZARDOUS WASTE, PAINT & ELECTRONICS – Rooney Road Recycling (by appointment only); METAL RECYCLING – Boots on the Ground; PAINT RECYCLING – GreenSheen
Posted October 12, 2020
Deer Creek Canyon Park temporarily closed due to Mountain Lion activity
Click here to view the article.
Posted October 10, 2020
A Message To The Community
We want to hear from you! A short survey has been posted below to hear what you have to say. Share your thoughts with the Board about your ideas for the HOA! FROM THE BOARD: With the Annual Meeting approaching, the Board wanted to take the opportunity to send communication to everyone. There has been much debate lately regarding the governing of the community and the feeling that the Board may be too unwilling to ‘get with the times.’ Please find the following message regarding these concerns. In the past, some residents were non-compliant with the DRC guidelines for changes to the exterior of their home or to their property by not submitting the necessary initial paperwork, which violates our Covenants. Subsequently some of those unauthorized changes were legally required to be grandfathered in. Several of these unauthorized changes were caught before the statute of limitations was up and were required to comply with the guidelines. In the last couple of years, the Board has increased initiatives in order to stop unauthorized exceptions from slipping through. One initiative is hiring a professional covenant compliance company, who keeps a watchful eye throughout the neighborhood. Nevertheless, there continue to be homeowners who feel that they have the freedom to do anything they want in a covenant-controlled community without going through the proper channels. The extremely rare “exceptions” which are, by law, grandfathered in, are problematic because residents try to use these exceptions as justification of why they should be allowed to make their changes. Some residents feel that they have the right to do what they want to do with their property. However, in a covenant-controlled community we do not have the authority to easily change the covenants. The DRC and the Board have worked consistently within the established guidelines and within the original vision of a property that is compatible with the surrounding nature. TrailMark is a highly sought-after community precisely because it remains a high quality, continually updated neighborhood. Updates include the revised exterior paint schemes, driveway options, exterior door designs, garage coach light options, and solar. Because we have well maintained properties, aesthetically appealing properties, TrailMark remains a quality and highly desired, covenant-controlled community whose value has always risen: even through the 2008 recession and the present COVID pandemic. It has proven immeasurably valuable to have guiding members who understand how TrailMark has carefully evolved. Nothing is done quickly, or rashly or out of placation. The long view, with historical detail, has proved highly valuable for the quality of life and investment here. As many of you know, there are three (3) seats open up for election at this November Annual Meeting. The Board also wants to share the duties and time requirements for serving, as this is a common question. Q: What are my duties on the Board? A: The Board is responsible for maintaining and honoring the Declarations, Bylaws, and Design Review Guidelines of the community. The Board reviews/approves all contracts for work done in the common area; the Board receives emails from residents with concerns or complaints; each Board member is assigned a committee for which they are the liaison; the Board currently meets every other month in the odd number months on the 2nd Tuesday at 7pm; the Board is responsible for holding homeowners to the standard set in the covenants; the Board is responsible for the financial state of the Association in which they set dues/approve all invoices/maintain a balanced budget. The Board is ultimately responsible for the trash contract, social events, maintenance and upkeep of Association property, and all things administrative (insurance, reserve study, approving invoices, etc). A Message To The Community. Q: What are the qualifications for being on the Board? A: As outlined in the Association Bylaws: “A Director may be any natural person and need not be an Owner of a Lot within the Community Area; provided, however, that upon the expiration of the Declarant’s Control Period, at least a majority of the Directors shall be Owners…” It is important to keep in mind that the qualifications to be a Director and the qualifications to vote vary. To cast a vote for Association issues the Lot for which the vote is being cast must be in good standing: meaning no outstanding money owed to the Association, in order to vote. Q: How much time does it take to be on the Board? A: Typically, Board members spend about 10-15 (15-20 for some officers, like President) hours each week dealing with HOA items: emails, phone calls, visits from neighbors, reviewing and overseeing contracts, performing site visits, attending various meetings with agencies such as City of Littleton, JEFFCO, SSPR and/or fielding and responding to issues presented by these entities, provides guidance to our committees, etc. When there is a Board meeting, the time spent on HOA issues is closer to 15-20 hours (20-25 for some officers, like President). Q: How long is my term on the Board? And are there term limits? A: Terms are 2-years in length. This is to ensure not all five Board members change at once, to allow consistency in governance. There are no term limits for how many times a person can sit on the Board.
Posted October 9, 2020
Notice: Special HOA Board Meeting
The HOA Board will be holding a Special Board Meeting on Monday, October 5 at 6:00 pm. The purpose of the meeting is to review the election process for this year. The process will be a bit different, so the HOA wanted to ensure everyone has the same information regarding the election. The meeting will be held via Zoom. All are welcome. Zoom online: https://zoom.us/j/95332973661, Via phone: (253) 215-8782, Meeting ID: 953 3297 3661, Agenda
TrailMark Concert Series
King Cardinal – Sunday, October 4th, 3:00 pm, Hogback Hill Park. Bring your own food and drink. Due to COVID-19: No bouncy castle; No food truck; Must distance and wear masks; Must stay 25+ feet away from the stage. Also, we know kids like to run around and get back behind the stage, but EVERYONE will need stay 25 or more feet in front of the stage. Please note the change in time. The concert begins at 3:00 pm. COVID-19 GUIDELINES will be strictly followed for everyone at this event.
Election Season
As election season is upon us, it is time to remind TrailMark homeowners and residents of TrailMark’s signage rules: TrailMark Homeowners Association cannot prohibit the placement of political signs on property which is owned by a resident of the HOA or in the window of a unit. A political sign is defined as a sign that carries a message intended to influence the outcome of an election, including supporting or opposing the election of a candidate, the recall of a public official, or the passage of a ballot issue. Any political sign shall not be on display earlier than 45 days before an election and shall be removed no later than 7 days after an election. The political sign may be no larger than thirty-six by forty-eight inches in size. Each home or unit may only have one (1) sign per political office or ballot issue that is contested in an upcoming election. Please adhere to these rules to avoid a covenant violation. Reference: CCIOA (C.R.S 38-33.3106.5(1)(C)) – (Colorado Common Interest Ownership Act). To get more information on the upcoming election, please visit the City of Littleton 2020 General Election web page.
Posted October 1, 2020
Are You Ready to Vote? Five Important Dates for Jeffco Voters
Right Now: Check/update your voter information. Oct. 9: Ballots will be mailed to registered voters and 24-hour drop-off locations will be available. Oct. 19: If you haven’t received a ballot, contact Elections to receive a replacement (until Oct. 26). Oct. 26: Last day to drop your ballot in the mail to ensure it arrives in time. Drop boxes, in-person vote centers will be open through Election Day. Nov. 3: Election Day! Use any drop box until 7 p.m., or get additional services at a vote center until 7 p.m. (register to vote, get a replacement ballot, etc.). Learn how you can track your ballot and sign up for alerts via phone, email or text. Contact Elections staff (electionstaffing@jeffco.us) to find out about being a paid temporary elections worker.
Posted October 1, 2020
HOA/TMMD Annual Meeting – Thursday, November 12th
Save the date! November 12, 2020 – TrailMark Residents, the Budget Ratification meeting and annual joint meeting of the TrailMark HOA and the TrailMark Metropolitan District (TMMD) will be held to discuss the budgets for 2021 on Thursday, November 12th. The TMMD meeting begins at 6:30 pm with the HOA meeting immediately following the conclusion of the TMMD meeting, approximately 7:00. If you want to know where your taxes and fees are being spent and managed, please attend the meeting. Call for Proxies – To have a quorum (required for the HOA meeting) necessary for ratification we need representation by proxy of a minimum of 82 households! You will receive, in the mail, notice of this meeting with a proxy form. If you cannot attend the meeting please return your proxy. Every year the HOA struggles to get enough proxies back to meet the quorum requirements set forth in the Governing Documents. If a quorum is not reached, the meeting must be rescheduled and costs the HOA a lot of money as all of the items must be mailed again and additional meetings must be called. Please send back your proxy when you receive it in the mail. This year the proxy is more important than ever. Be sure to indicate who you are assigning your proxy to. Do not leave the proxy blank. You may still complete the proxy for quorum only. This means that nobody gets to vote on your behalf, but that your proxy counts towards the quorum requirement for the meeting. If you would like to ensure someone votes on your behalf, you can either assign your vote to a Board member or to someone else in the community. Don’t leave it blank! If you think your neighbor already sent it, they probably didn’t! So please, if you are not going to attend the meeting, send your proxy back. Thank you! Call for Candidates – The Annual Meeting also means that Board elections are coming up. Please contact the Property Manager, Angie Kelly (akelly@crsofcolorado.com) if you are interested in running for a position on the Board of Directors. More information about Board duties is included in the newsletter and will be included with the items mailed to you. This year is a bit different as we have to hold the meeting virtually. While this is not an ideal situation, we want to be sure the safety of all residents is taken into consideration. The meeting information will be included in the items mailed to you and posted on the TrailMark website prior to the meeting. With the change to virtual, the process will look a bit different also. Due to this change, the Board has agreed to hold a Special Board meeting* on Monday, October 5, 2020 at 6:00 pm to review the process and expectations for this meeting. If you are interested in running for the Board, please be sure to attend this meeting! *Special Meeting – Monday, October 5th—Online: https://zoom.us/j/95332973661, Phone: 253-215-8782, meeting ID 953 3297 3661. This information is also on the TrailMark website. Agenda – Notice of Budget Ratification and Annual Meeting – 2021 Budget – Proxy
Posted October 1, 2020
Here we are again, talking trash!
The trash and recycling continue to be of concern. Some residents share concern that service is not always perfect, that some homes are missed. And others share concern that residents are not following protocol and cause delays for the driver. Here are some examples of issues and how we might fix them: Loose trash is a problem. The driver must get out of his truck, load all of the loose items into the truck, and then move to the next house. This takes time and could cause slowed or missed service for others. Break down boxes and place all recycling into a container for service. In addition to the service being slowed, the winds in TrailMark are very likely to blow much of this into a neighbor’s yard. Would you be happy if this was blowing into your yard? Container spacing is important. As many of you have seen, the trucks that come through have automated arms that pick up the containers to empty them into the truck. These trucks are used for efficiency to ensure all 800 homes get serviced on trash/recycle day. However, when containers are placed too close together, the arms cannot get between the containers to pick them up. So, the driver must get out of the truck, move the containers, and then empty them. The 2nd photo (below) is the correct way to line up containers. Please do your part to help the driver! If the trash/recycling is not securely in the container, it will likely blow out when the driver is trying to empty the container. While it might not slow down service, it sure does upset neighbors when trash is blowing all over the neighborhood. This is not the fault of the driver for making a mess; be sure to give them a fighting chance.
Posted October 1, 2020
Jefferson County is in the Safer at Home “Level 2: Concern” phase
Read more about this phase and keep up to date with the latest status by visiting https://www.jeffco.us/4047/Safer-at-Home-Level.
Posted October 1, 2020
Common Questions about running for the Board of Directors for the TrailMark Homeowners Association
Q: What are my duties on the Board? A: The Board is responsible for maintaining and honoring the Declarations, Bylaws, and Design Review Guidelines of the community. The Board reviews/approves all contracts for work done in the common area. The Board receives emails from residents who voice concerns, complaints and/or ideas. The Board is responsible for holding homeowners accountable to the standards set in the covenants. The Board is responsible for the financial state of the Association in which they set dues, approve all invoices, and maintain a balanced budget. The Board is ultimately responsible for the trash contract, social events, maintenance and upkeep of Association property, and all things administrative (insurance, reserve study, etc.). Each Board member is assigned a committee for which they are the liaison between the Board and that committee. In this capacity, the Board member attends committee meetings and advises the Board on on-going committee activities. The Board currently meets every other month, in the odd number months, on the 2nd Tuesday at 7pm.
Q: What are the qualifications for being on the Board? A: As outlined in the Association Bylaws: “A Director may be any natural person and need not be an Owner of a Lot within the Community Area; provided, however, that upon the expiration of the Declarant’s Control Period, at least a majority of the Directors shall be Owners…” It is important to keep in mind that the qualifications to be a Director and the qualifications to vote vary. To cast a vote for Association issues, the Lot for which the vote is being cast must be in good standing, that is, no outstanding fines or dues are allowed, in order to vote.
Q: How much time does it take to be on the Board? A: Typically, Board members spend about 10-15 hours each week dealing with HOA items: emails; phone calls; visits from neighbors; reviewing and overseeing contracts; performing site visits; attending various meetings with agencies such as City of Littleton, JEFFCO, SSPR and/or fielding and responding to issues presented by these entities; provides guidance to our committees; etc. During the week when there is a Board meeting, the time spent on HOA issues is approximately 15-20 hours to facilitate meeting preparation and meeting attendance.
Q: How long is my term on the Board? And are there term limits? A: Terms are 2-years in length. This is to ensure not all five Board members change at once, to allow consistency in governance. There are no term limits for how many times a person can sit on the Board.
Posted October 1, 2020
Food Truck Thursday with new Online Ordering!
Thursday, October 1st, 5:00-7:30 pm, DO NOT TRY TO ORDER BEFORE 5 PM, S. Field Way near TrailMark Park. SOCIAL DISTANCING IS MANDATORY! Trucks that will be available, along with their menu and ordering site, will be posted each week. NO WAITING. NO LINES. JUST ORDER AND PICK IT UP. Order food AT HOME and send 1 PERSON to pick up your order at the designated pick up time. Stand 6 feet apart to pick up food. Go home to eat. NO CONGREGATING AT THE PARK! Please respect the people who live on that street and keep your distance. For trucks that use Truckster: Download the Truckster app, hit magnifying glass at the bottom, type in the truck name, hit on menu button – done. Other truck links: Go straight to the ordering button. (Some ice cream trucks don’t have an online ordering option.) Links will go live at 5pm. Many order early so think about ordering late! DO NOT TRY TO ORDER BEFORE 5PM. You can’t order until the truck turns the ordering system on. The truck will message you back and tell you when your order will be ready. Then come pick up your food while adhering to social distancing. Thank you so much for following the guidelines to allow us to continue this opportunity for all! FOOD TRUCKS FOR OCTOBER 1 – What Would Cheesus Do, Rebel Cookie Dough (order at truck). Order through each business’s website by clicking on a logo below, or use the Truckster phone app. (Instructions are listed above.) Food truck selections subject to change. COVID-19 GUIDELINES will be strictly followed for everyone at this event.
TrailMark Night at the Corn Maze
Tuesday, September 22nd, 5:00-8:00 pm, Denver Botanic Gardens at Chatfield Farms. As with everything this year, our Night at the Corn Maze is going to look a little different. Due to limited participant allowance by the gardens, SIGN UPS AND ADVANCED PAYMENT ARE REQUIRED. THERE WILL BE NO WALK UPS. Unfortunately, at this time ALL SLOTS HAVE BEEN FILLED. Please visit our SignUpGenius page to check for cancellations/openings. Cost: $5/person, AGE 3 and up must pay. Masks are required upon entry and on the grounds. Social distancing is required as well.
Food Truck Thursday with new Online Ordering!
Thursday, September 17th, 5:00-7:30 pm. DO NOT TRY TO ORDER BEFORE 5 PM. S. Field Way near TrailMark Park. SOCIAL DISTANCING IS MANDATORY! Trucks that will be available, along with their menu and ordering site, will be posted each week. NO WAITING. NO LINES. JUST ORDER AND PICK IT UP. Order food AT HOME and send 1 PERSON to pick up your order at the designated pick up time. Stand 6 feet apart to pick up food. Go home to eat. NO CONGREGATING AT THE PARK! Please respect the people who live on that street and keep your distance. For trucks that use Truckster: Download the Truckster app, hit magnifying glass at the bottom, type in the truck name, hit on menu button – done. Other truck links: Go straight to the ordering button. (Some ice cream trucks don’t have an online ordering option.) Links will go live at 5pm. Many order early so think about ordering late! DO NOT TRY TO ORDER BEFORE 5PM. You can’t order until the truck turns the ordering system on. The truck will message you back and tell you when your order will be ready. Then come pick up your food while adhering to social distancing. Thank you so much for following the guidelines to allow us to continue this opportunity for all! FOOD TRUCKS FOR SEPTEMBER 17 – Gyros King, J Street. Order through each business’s website by clicking on a link above, or use the Truckster phone app. (Instructions are listed above.) Food truck selections subject to change. COVID-19 GUIDELINES will be strictly followed for everyone at this event.
TMMD Zoom Regular Meeting
Tuesday, September 15th, 6:30 pm. Zoom: https://zoom.us/j/96062167164?pwd=VzZzSHh0WVdNMm4yWXg0MVdKRmJ4UT09, Phone: +13462487799, Meeting ID: 960 6216 7164, Password: 669726. Agenda
CPW asks residents to remove attractants and reduce bear conflicts during the fall season
9/10/2020: Area 5 – Denver Metro Area Counties (Adams, Arapahoe, Denver, Douglas, Elbert, Jefferson and portions of Broomfield County). “Bear activity and human conflict continues to be an issue. Residents should be reminded to secure their trash and not put it out until the morning of trash pickup. Residents are also reminded to close their garage doors, lock their cars and remove bird feeders/hummingbird feeders to prevent bears from becoming habituated. Drought conditions exist in most of Area 5 and natural food sources for bears remain inconsistent across the area. Residents are also reminded that feeding bears is illegal and creates a public safety issue.” ~ Matt Martinez, Area 5 Wildlife Manager. CPW News Release
Posted September 11, 2020
HOA Zoom Board Meeting
Thursday, September 10th, 7:00 pm. Zoom: https://zoom.us/j/96474532710, Phone: (346) 248-7799, Meeting ID: 964 7453 2710. Draft agenda. All are welcome.
Garbage Pick-up delayed to September 9th
TrailMark’s garbage & recycling pick-up will be delayed from Tuesday, September 8th to Wednesday, September 9th due to the Labor Day holiday. https://alpinewaste.com/
TrailMark Median Projects
You may have noticed work being done on several medians on TrailMark Parkway. The HOA Board has approved plans for refreshing all of the medians in the neighborhood with fresh mulch, rock and some xeriscape planting. The proposal has been in the works for quite awhile and we were able to contract with LCS to make median improvements. This will be about a 2 year project, and some of the planting on the medians being currently refreshed will be postponed until fall. The Common Area Committee (CAC) created a priority list for this project and medians will be worked on in an order which moves from front to back alternately. Huge thanks go to CAC members for undertaking this project: Rick Handley, Randy Pabst, Wayne Lupton, Laurel Knaub, Sandy Farish, Pene Miller and Lisa Hern. Mary Kreeger, CAC
Posted September 5, 2020
A letter from the City of Littleton: Right-of-Way Obstructions
Dear Littleton Resident: It has come to the attention of the City of Littleton that pedestrians and sidewalk travelers occasionally have difficulty passing on some of the City sidewalks. This letter is a reminder of the Littleton City Codes which require that public sidewalks remain clear of obstructions such as, but not limited to, trash containers, recycle bins, basketball hoops, tree branches, vegetation, snow and ice. Please inspect your property to ensure compliance with the codes within the next 30 days. The Littleton City Code section 4-1-1 (IPMC section 307.2 amendment 26) requires trash containers be stored in an area behind the front setback of the property and the area be maintained in a clean and sanitary condition. The containers may be placed at the curb temporarily to facilitate pickup of trash, but must not be placed on the City sidewalk. Section 8-1-5(B) of the Littleton City Code prohibits placing any type structure in the public right of way or sidewalk, this includes basketball hoops, skateboard ramps and vehicles parked on the sidewalks. Trees, shrubs and other vegetation must be routinely trimmed to keep sidewalks and streets clear, and to maintain proper visibility of traffic control signs and oncoming vehicles at intersections. Section 8-1-6 of Littleton City Code requires all branches be trimmed back to the edge of sidewalk and to a minimum height of 10 feet above sidewalks. Most of the sidewalks in Littleton are less than four feet in width. Even a small branch intruding into this space can cause pedestrians or travelers to have to move into the street or onto adjacent lawn areas to pass. Tree branches above any street must be trimmed to a minimum clearance height of 14 feet. Low hanging branches are frequently damaged by passing trucks and busses, creating a potentially hazardous situation for drivers and leaving the tree more susceptible to insect and disease problems. Section 8-1-4 (A) of the Littleton City Code requires that sidewalks and curbs be maintained in a clean condition and snow and ice be removed within twenty-four (24) hours after every snowfall. If you have any questions, or to report violations, please call me at 303-795-3831. Thank you for your prompt attention to this matter. Sincerely, Rebecca Thompson, Code Enforcement Manager
Posted September 3, 2020
Food Truck Thursday with new Online Ordering!
Thursday, September 3rd, 5:00-7:30 pm. DO NOT TRY TO ORDER BEFORE 5 PM. S. Field Way near TrailMark Park. SOCIAL DISTANCING IS MANDATORY! Trucks that will be available, along with their menu and ordering site, will be posted each week. NO WAITING. NO LINES. JUST ORDER AND PICK IT UP. Order food AT HOME and send 1 PERSON to pick up your order at the designated pick up time. Stand 6 feet apart to pick up food. Go home to eat. NO CONGREGATING AT THE PARK! Please respect the people who live on that street and keep your distance. For trucks that use Truckster: Download the Truckster app, hit magnifying glass at the bottom, type in the truck name, hit on menu button – done. Other truck links: Go straight to the ordering button. (Some ice cream trucks don’t have an online ordering option.) Links will go live at 5pm. Many order early so think about ordering late! DO NOT TRY TO ORDER BEFORE 5PM. You can’t order until the truck turns the ordering system on. The truck will message you back and tell you when your order will be ready. Then come pick up your food while adhering to social distancing. Thank you so much for following the guidelines to allow us to continue this opportunity for all! FOOD TRUCKS FOR SEPTEMBER 3 – Barbed Wire Reef, Wyly Coyote Concessions. Order through each business’s website by clicking on a link above, or use the Truckster phone app. (Instructions are listed above.) Food truck selections subject to change. COVID-19 GUIDELINES will be strictly followed for everyone at this event.
The Annual Meeting is coming up in November. We need people to return proxies so please be on the lookout for mail with the meeting notice, 2021 budget, and proxy.
Posted September 1, 2020
A message about Denver Botanic Gardens Chatfield Farms
Please note that the Botanic Gardens reached out to the HOA with significant concerns about the interaction between TrailMark residents and their employees. The Gardens have received complaints from TrailMark residents each time they attempt to care for their property near the TrailMark border. TrailMark residents have been unpleasant to both the applicator doing the work and the resource center when calls are made to complain. In addition, TrailMark residents have been dumping yard debris over the fence onto the Botanic Gardens property. The HOA is disappointed to hear of the treatment of the staff of the Botanic Gardens and asks that all residents refrain from these actions immediately. As a reminder, the Botanic Gardens are bound by State law to control weeds and their applicators are all licensed. They spray when conditions are allowable with herbicide label guidelines. Also, the Chatfield Farms property is managed by Denver Botanic Gardens and casual trespassing is not something their liability insurance will cover. The property is not open space or a park for TrailMark resident use. Please stay on the trails and open space provided otherwise. Finally, the Gardens has asked us to remind all residents that Colorado is a freedom to farm state; agricultural activity can be pursued without harassment. Please, the HOA is asking, let’s be better neighbors.
Posted September 1, 2020
Wildfire Risk & Preparedness
TrailMark is surrounded by the risk of a wildfire. Read here about what to do before and during a possible wildfire.
https://www.wunderground.com/prepare/wildfire; https://co-pub.coloradoforestatlas.org/#/
Posted September 1, 2020
TrailMark Concert Series
Cindy and the Protractors – TrailMark resident Ryan Bazz is in the band! Sunday, August 30th, 5:30-7:30 pm, Hogback Hill Park. Bring your own food and drink. Due to COVID-19: No bouncy castle; No food truck; Must distance and wear masks; Must stay 25+ feet away from the stage. Also, we know kids like to run around and get back behind the stage, but EVERYONE will need stay 25 or more feet in front of the stage. COVID-19 GUIDELINES will be strictly followed for everyone at this event.
Food Truck Thursday with new Online Ordering!
Thursday, August 27th, 5:00-7:30 pm. DO NOT TRY TO ORDER BEFORE 5 PM. S. Field Way near TrailMark Park SOCIAL DISTANCING IS MANDATORY! Trucks that will be available, along with their menu and ordering site, will be posted each week. NO WAITING. NO LINES. JUST ORDER AND PICK IT UP. Order food AT HOME and send 1 PERSON to pick up your order at the designated pick up time. Stand 6 feet apart to pick up food. Go home to eat. NO CONGREGATING AT THE PARK! Please respect the people who live on that street and keep your distance. For trucks that use Truckster: Download the Truckster app, hit magnifying glass at the bottom, type in the truck name, hit on menu button – done. Other truck links: Go straight to the ordering button. (Some ice cream trucks don’t have an online ordering option.) Links will go live at 5pm. Many order early so think about ordering late! DO NOT TRY TO ORDER BEFORE 5PM. You can’t order until the truck turns the ordering system on. The truck will message you back and tell you when your order will be ready. Then come pick up your food while adhering to social distancing. Thank you so much for following the guidelines to allow us to continue this opportunity for all! Order through each business’s website by clicking on a logo below, or use the Truckster phone app. (Instructions are listed above.) Food truck selections subject to change. COVID-19 GUIDELINES will be strictly followed for everyone at this event. FOOD TRUCKS FOR AUGUST 27 – The Cravings Truck, Gyros King, Repicci’s Italian Ice & Gelato (order at truck)
TrailMark Night at the Corn Maze
8/25/20 UPDATE: ALL SLOTS ARE FILLED. Please check back for cancellations/openings. Our Night at the Corn Maze is scheduled for September 22nd, from 5-8 pm. As with everything this year, it’s going to look a little different. Due to limited participant allowance by the gardens, YOU MUST SIGN UP AND PAY IN ADVANCE. THERE WILL BE NO WALK UPS. Please use the following SignUpGenius link to sign up and choose a payment option.
https://www.signupgenius.com/go/4090849a4ae2ea4f94-trailmark2. Cost: $5/person, AGE 3 and up must pay. Masks are required upon entry and on the grounds. Social distancing is required as well. Thanks so much! We hope to have a fun night. Any Questions? Email social@trailmarkhoa.org. Sincerely, TrailMark Social Committee
Posted August 12, 2020; Updated August 25, 2020
Reminder: Fireworks are Illegal & there’s a Fire Ban
The TrailMark HOA has been informed of illegal fireworks being set off in our neighborhood this week. The City of Littleton is heavily enforcing the Colorado statewide fire ban and will be giving hefty fines and citations to violators who disobey and set off any type of firework within the City limits of Littleton. Littleton Police requests that you please report any neighbor who is lighting off illegal fireworks to their non-emergency phone number which is 303-794-1551. Please respect your fellow neighbors and refrain from lighting any kind of fireworks. Thank you!
Posted August 20, 2020
Food Truck Thursday with new Online Ordering!
Thursday, August 20th, 5:00-7:30 pm. DO NOT TRY TO ORDER BEFORE 5 PM. S. Field Way near TrailMark Park. SOCIAL DISTANCING IS MANDATORY! Trucks that will be available, along with their menu and ordering site, will be posted each week. NO WAITING. NO LINES. JUST ORDER AND PICK IT UP. Order food AT HOME and send 1 PERSON to pick up your order at the designated pick up time. Stand 6 feet apart to pick up food. Go home to eat. NO CONGREGATING AT THE PARK! Please respect the people who live on that street and keep your distance. For trucks that use Truckster: Download the Truckster app, hit magnifying glass at the bottom, type in the truck name, hit on menu button – done. Other truck links: Go straight to the ordering button. (Some ice cream trucks don’t have an online ordering option.) Links will go live at 5pm. Many order early so think about ordering late! DO NOT TRY TO ORDER BEFORE 5PM. You can’t order until the truck turns the ordering system on. The truck will message you back and tell you when your order will be ready. Then come pick up your food while adhering to social distancing. Thank you so much for following the guidelines to allow us to continue this opportunity for all! FOOD TRUCKS FOR AUGUST 20 – Chuey Fu’s, High Point Creamery (order at truck). Order using the Truckster app. (Instructions are listed above.) Food truck selections subject to change. COVID-19 GUIDELINES will be strictly followed for everyone at this event.
Family Photo Day Series
Sunday, August 16th, 6:00-8:00 pm (same time slots). Path on east side of Fairview Reservoir. We have 3 amazing resident photographers offering 3 opportunities to get a free family portrait taken in our beautiful neighborhood. Sign up for ONE time slot and bring your family for 1 free family pose. THIS IS NOT A FULL SESSION. Please respect the photographers’ time and generosity. Additional poses may be available for purchase IF TIME ALLOWS. If you like the result, consider hiring one of these lovely ladies to do a full session with your family! *Note: There are 4 family slots available per 30 minute time. Arrive early in your time slot and be first in line. When you arrive please adhere to social distancing guidelines and wait for your family to be called up by the photographer. Wait time, therefore, should be no more than about 25 minutes! Please only sign up if you can commit to being there! Photographers: June 13th (Kristin Blasi), July 19th (Jen Reeves), August 16th (Julie Schwabauer). Click here to sign up now!COVID-19 GUIDELINES will be strictly followed for everyone at this event.
Food Truck Thursday with new Online Ordering!
Thursday, August 13th, 5:00-7:30 pm. DO NOT TRY TO ORDER BEFORE 5 PM. S. Field Way near TrailMark Park. SOCIAL DISTANCING IS MANDATORY! Trucks that will be available, along with their menu and ordering site, will be posted each week. NO WAITING. NO LINES. JUST ORDER AND PICK IT UP. Order food AT HOME and send 1 PERSON to pick up your order at the designated pick up time. Stand 6 feet apart to pick up food. Go home to eat. NO CONGREGATING AT THE PARK! Please respect the people who live on that street and keep your distance. For trucks that use Truckster: Download the Truckster app, hit magnifying glass at the bottom, type in the truck name, hit on menu button – done. Other truck links: Go straight to the ordering button. (Some ice cream trucks don’t have an online ordering option.) Links will go live at 5pm. Many order early so think about ordering late! DO NOT TRY TO ORDER BEFORE 5PM. You can’t order until the truck turns the ordering system on. The truck will message you back and tell you when your order will be ready. Then come pick up your food while adhering to social distancing. Thank you so much for following the guidelines to allow us to continue this opportunity for all! FOOD TRUCKS FOR AUGUST 13th: OG Burgers, Miss B’s Vietnamese. Order using the Truckster app. (Instructions are listed above.) Food truck selections subject to change. COVID-19 GUIDELINES will be strictly followed for everyone at this event.
Pond Water Quality Update
The TMMD is aware of the extreme algae in Fairview Reservoir #2, located off of TrailMark Parkway between Independence St and W Danzig. Unfortunately, the water level is two feet lower than normal and the temperature is 80 degrees, conditions for prime algae growth. Algae treatments are being done as often and as strongly as can be with the current water conditions. The aeration system is not running as it would make the conditions worse with the lack of water (the diffusers are located in the pond’s bottom sediment and without enough water, will stir more dirt in the water instead of oxygenating it). As a reminder, there are not supposed to be fish in that pond so those in place are invasive, not stocked. As a result of the algae treatments plus a low water level, it is likely some fish will die off – precisely why this pond is not a fishing feature – it cannot support a healthy environment. We apologize for the conditions and hope that Mother Nature will help with some rain in the near future!
Posted August 12, 2020
Shea Property Update: Proposed Building Plans
Shea has sent over their proposed plans with a letter for those who would like to review it. View letter and plans here.
Posted August 10, 2020
Food Truck Thursday with new Online Ordering!
Thursday, August 6th, 5:00-7:30 pm. DO NOT TRY TO ORDER BEFORE 5 PM. S. Field Way near TrailMark Park. SOCIAL DISTANCING IS MANDATORY! Trucks that will be available, along with their menu and ordering site, will be posted each week. NO WAITING. NO LINES. JUST ORDER AND PICK IT UP. Order food AT HOME and send 1 PERSON to pick up your order at the designated pick up time. Stand 6 feet apart to pick up food. Go home to eat. NO CONGREGATING AT THE PARK! Please respect the people who live on that street and keep your distance. For trucks that use Truckster: Download the Truckster app, hit magnifying glass at the bottom, type in the truck name, hit on menu button – done. Other truck links: Go straight to the ordering button. (Some ice cream trucks don’t have an online ordering option.) Links will go live at 5pm. Many order early so think about ordering late! DO NOT TRY TO ORDER BEFORE 5PM. You can’t order until the truck turns the ordering system on. The truck will message you back and tell you when your order will be ready. Then come pick up your food while adhering to social distancing. Thank you so much for following the guidelines to allow us to continue this opportunity for all! FOOD TRUCKS FOR AUGUST 6th: Meatball, California Wrap Runner, Repicci’s Italian Ice & Gelato (order at truck). Order using the Truckster app. (Instructions are listed above.) Food truck selections subject to change. COVID-19 GUIDELINES will be strictly followed for everyone at this event.
TrailMark Concert SeriesWILDERMISS Alternative/Indie Band. Sunday, August 2nd, 5:30-7:30 pm, Hogback Hill Park. Bring your own food and drink. Due to COVID-19: No bouncy castle. No food truck. Must distance and wear masks. Must stay 25+ feet away from the stage. Also, we know kids like to run around and get back behind the stage, but EVERYONE will need stay 25 or more feet in front of the stage. COVID-19 GUIDELINES will be strictly followed for everyone at this event.
Shea Property Update
The Board recently listened to a presentation by Shea Homes regarding possible development of the property along Wadsworth. Currently, Shea Homes is looking at the development of single family homes in that area. They will be ranch style homes to fit with the existing look of TrailMark. Please note, Shea Homes will be providing the HOA with a document to explain their proposed plan. Once received, it will be posted on the TrailMark website. Should you wish to be involved with the committee assessing the Shea property, please contact Property Manager Angie Kelly
.
Posted August 1, 2020
Drivers: Reminder to Stop when School Bus Lights are Flashing
As we start a new school year, we would like to remind residents that when the school bus lights are flashing RED
, drivers must stop from every direction. Colorado law states: “You must stop your vehicle at least 20 feet before reaching a school bus that is stopped with its red lights flashing whether it is on your side of the road, the opposite side of the road, or at an intersection you are approaching. You must remain stopped until the flashing red lights are no longer operating. Watch carefully for children near the school bus and children crossing the roadway before proceeding.”
Posted August 1, 2020
TrailMark Metro District Pond Update
This summer has been difficult for the water features in TrailMark. The heat and lack of rain resulted in more stagnant water with algae blooms and smells. The District hires aquatics professionals to monitor and treat the water but only so much can be done when Mother Nature doesn’t help. The TMMD thanks those who have called to report conditions. For your reference the map shows the entity responsible for maintenance of the open space areas in TrailMark. POND G – Many questions have been received about why the water level in Pond G has been lower than usual. Pond G (in the open space near the Two Brands Trail in the Hilderbrand Ranch Open Space) was designed to be a detention pond that collects stormwater and slowly releases it downstream (in this case, to the Botanic Gardens). Over the past few years, the water has been elevated over its designed level due to the outlet structure being blocked with silt. The City of Littleton Water Resource Manager inspected Pond G in 2019 and required the TMMD to clean the outlet so the water flowed as was designed. While the pond level is much lower than in the past few years, it is now operating as designed. With the water level lower after being high for a few years, there is a smell to the drying out process. It has improved in the past few weeks with the heat. The District has an ongoing aquatic maintenance company and they will work to reduce algae and odor while trying to keep good water quality. While Fairview Reservoir #1 is stocked for fishing, the only fish that are stocked in pond G are grass carp designed to help with vegetation control. Compliance with federal, state and local stormwater is a complicated issue that has become more regulated in recent years. It is inevitable that the silt will fill the outlet again, and therefore will be cleaned routinely in order to comply with stormwater regulations (the outlet was last cleaned in 2013). Below is the contact information for those who would like to learn more about the requirements of the city and the approved TrailMark stormwater system design: Carolyn Roan, PE, CFM, Water Resource Manager, Public Works, 2255 West Berry Avenue, Littleton, Colorado 80120, 303-795-3836, 720-982-9235 (mobile), 303-795-3865 (front desk). Fairview Reservoir #2 (Beaver Pond) – This water feature near Star Canyon is also part of the overall drainage system and is suffering from the heat and lack of fresh water. The pond has a solar aeration system to help water movement, and repairs have been ongoing this summer. It is not a fishing feature and if anyone sees dead fish, they were not meant to ever be in the pond and may be the result of the fish moving thru the water drainage system. The odor can be the result of an algae die off due to treatment or water not moving enough. Fairview Reservoir #1- The largest water feature in TrailMark, Fairview #1 is meant to hold water and be a fishing and visual amenity. However, water is released according to water law requirements so the water level can fluctuate. The water in Fairview #1 was spot treated for surface algae mats in May and has been treated on a weekly basis since late June for a problematic phytoplankton bloom with major treatments performed regularly. While some improvement in water clarity was evident, a third phytoplankton treatment will likely be needed this month to curb the ongoing bloom and stabilize water quality conditions. There is also aeration in Fairview to help with water quality and the system has been working correctly. We all enjoy having water and wildlife nearby and try to preserve it when possible. However, it is a balancing act with regulations and Mother Nature’s input. Mosquito Treatment – As for mosquitos, the District hires Vector Disease Control International to test and treat mosquito activity at all our water sites. This company also does the Botanic Gardens (including fogging) and have had reports of high mosquito activity in the area. The District has asked for the areas to be checked again, but depending on when it rains, the heat and the timing of their visits to TrailMark, mosquito activity can vary. The testing also looks for West Nile or other insect borne diseases.
Posted August 1, 2020
Garbage & Recycling Update
Help save our Bears: Wildlife and Trash Don’t Mix – Please remember, you purchased a home that is close to wildlife. This means that leaving trash cans out will attract bears, raccoons, etc. As a member of the community, putting your trash cans in the garage is the best way to avoid unwanted visitors in your yard or your neighbor’s yard. The rule for trash day is that your container cannot be out before the morning of pick-up. This also helps to keep the unwanted visitors out of the neighborhood. Possible Electronic Recycling and Dumpster Day – The HOA is working with the trash company to set up a day that provides a large dumpster and electronic recycling. At the great suggestion of a TrailMark resident, the HOA would like to offer this service as we know many of you are organizing and cleaning during this stay at home time. While we cannot offer exact details yet, further messaging will be sent out regarding an event. Please check the website and watch for further email communication and social media posts. Alpine/GFL Automated Sustainability Report for TrailMark June 2020
Posted August 1, 2020
Food Truck Thursday with new Online Ordering!
Thursday, July 30th, 5:00-7:30 pm. DO NOT TRY TO ORDER BEFORE 5 PM. S. Field Way near TrailMark Park. SOCIAL DISTANCING IS MANDATORY! Trucks that will be available, along with their menu and ordering site, will be posted each week. NO WAITING. NO LINES. JUST ORDER AND PICK IT UP. Order food AT HOME and send 1 PERSON to pick up your order at the designated pick up time. Stand 6 feet apart to pick up food. Go home to eat. NO CONGREGATING AT THE PARK! Please respect the people who live on that street and keep your distance. For trucks that use Truckster: Download the Truckster app, hit magnifying glass at the bottom, type in the truck name, hit on menu button – done. Other truck links: Go straight to the ordering button. (Some ice cream trucks don’t have an online ordering option.) Links will go live at 5pm. Many order early so think about ordering late! DO NOT TRY TO ORDER BEFORE 5PM. You can’t order until the truck turns the ordering system on. The truck will message you back and tell you when your order will be ready. Then come pick up your food while adhering to social distancing. Thank you so much for following the guidelines to allow us to continue this opportunity for all! FOOD TRUCKS FOR JULY 30th: Carlos Kitchen, What Would Cheesus Do, Yogie’s Frozen Yogurt. Order using the Truckster app. (Instructions are listed above.) Food truck selections subject to change. COVID-19 GUIDELINES will be strictly followed for everyone at this event.
Public Works storm drainage work to take place in TrailMark
The City of Littleton Public Works Department has alerted us that sometime during the first few weeks of August, storm drainage construction work will begin at the following locations: Field Way cul-de-sac; W. Freiburg Place, south side; S. Johnson Lane, south side. Please take care when driving and/or walking in these areas.
Posted July 27, 2020
TrailMark Night at Pirates Cove a Covid-19 Success
It has been reported to the HOA board that the residents and participants at the Pirates Cove event were in full cooperation with the Covid-19 guidelines. Those who were swimming in the pools were not wearing masks (of course) for obvious reasons. However, the swimmers were wearing their face coverings as they exited Pirates Cove. Good for them!!! There were quite a few parents who sat on the sidelines and watched their kids. Those who weren’t swimming were wearing masks and social distancing from one another. Pirates Cove even had periodic hand sanitizer stations scattered throughout the park for people to clean their hands. The limited number of participants attending the function this year seemed to help as well. Limiting participation to 240 people was great for the kids who wanted to swim. The variety of slides and pools was readily available and user friendly to every kid and/or person swimming. Restricting the number of participants may be something to consider at future water park events. If less crowded, it can bring a better experience to all. All in all, the event was a success. Neighbors respected the rules of Pirates Cove as well as the Covid-19 guidelines. It’s a positive report to all of us.
Posted July 27, 2020
TrailMark Night at Pirates Cove
Sunday, July 26, 6:30 pm-8:30 pm, 1225 West Belleview, Littleton. Join us for a night of swimming at Pirate’s Cove! Cost: $5/person, AGE 3 and Up. Update: 7/24 – SIGNUP IS NOW CLOSED. NO WALK UPS ALLOWED THIS YEAR. Pirate’s Cove limit has increased (from 150), but EVERY PERSON is still required to sign up and pay in advance this year. Once we have 200 paid participants, the signup will be closed. NO WALK UPS ALLOWED THIS YEAR. Click here for more information, and to sign up. COVID-19 GUIDELINES will be strictly followed for everyone at this event.
Food Truck Thursday with new Online Ordering!
Thursday, July 23rd, 5:00-7:30 pm. DO NOT TRY TO ORDER BEFORE 5 PM. S. Field Way near TrailMark Park SOCIAL DISTANCING IS MANDATORY! Trucks that will be available, along with their menu and ordering site, will be posted each week. NO WAITING. NO LINES. JUST ORDER AND PICK IT UP. Order food AT HOME and send 1 PERSON to pick up your order at the designated pick up time. Stand 6 feet apart to pick up food. Go home to eat. NO CONGREGATING AT THE PARK! Please respect the people who live on that street and keep your distance. For trucks that use Truckster: Download the Truckster app, hit magnifying glass at the bottom, type in the truck name, hit on menu button – done. Other truck links: Go straight to the ordering button. (Some ice cream trucks don’t have an online ordering option.) Links will go live at 5pm. Many order early so think about ordering late! DO NOT TRY TO ORDER BEFORE 5PM. You can’t order until the truck turns the ordering system on. The truck will message you back and tell you when your order will be ready. Then come pick up your food while adhering to social distancing. Thank you so much for following the guidelines to allow us to continue this opportunity for all! FOOD TRUCKS FOR JULY 23rd: Post Oak BBQ, Simply Pizza, Sweet Combforts. Order using the Truckster app. (Instructions are listed above.) Food truck selections subject to change. COVID-19 GUIDELINES will be strictly followed for everyone at this event.
TMMD Regular Zoom Meeting
Tuesday, July 21st, 6:30 pm. Zoom Meeting. Agenda
Family Photo Day Series
Rescheduled to Sunday, July 19th, 6:00-8:00 pm (same time slots). Path on east side of Fairview Reservoir. We have 3 amazing resident photographers offering 3 opportunities to get a free family portrait taken in our beautiful neighborhood. Sign up for ONE time slot and bring your family for 1 free family pose. THIS IS NOT A FULL SESSION. Please respect the photographers’ time and generosity. Additional poses may be available for purchase IF TIME ALLOWS. If you like the result, consider hiring one of these lovely ladies to do a full session with your family! *Note: There are 4 family slots available per 30 minute time. Arrive early in your time slot and be first in line. When you arrive please adhere to social distancing guidelines and wait for your family to be called up by the photographer. Wait time, therefore, should be no more than about 25 minutes! Please only sign up if you can commit to being there! July 19th Photographer: Jen Reeves. COVID-19 GUIDELINES will be strictly followed for everyone at this event.
TrailMark Garage Sale
Friday, July 17th*, Saturday, July 18th*, 7:30 am-2:00 pm. Sponsored by Sunny Puckett of RE/MAX Professionals. *Circumstances permitting. COVID-19 GUIDELINES will be strictly followed for everyone at this event. View map with participating addresses here: https://www.google.com/maps/d/u/0/viewer?mid=1Da2NplJwtk2oMGkLeMXvUSmxtEyXko8b&fbclid=IwAR1gU8V2q5s1jAJgLu4XwUsiNvywaxRX4Z9zImIZv8uElYCAXPSFRCHBq0A&ll=39.54166589995688%2C-105.10158275&z=15
Get on the Map!
TrailMark Garage Sale – July 17th & 18th*, 7:30 am-2:00 pm. Sponsored by Sunny Puckett. If you plan to participate, get your house on the map! Email trailmarkgaragesale@sunnypuckett.com. *Circumstances permitting. COVID-19 GUIDELINES will be strictly followed for everyone at this event.
IMPORTANT INFORMATION REGARDING TRAILMARK EVENTS AND COVID-19
The HOA Board has considered whether to continue with our summer social events and has decided to proceed with the concerts, food trucks, 4th of July parade, and summer garage sale. However, with the COVID-19 pandemic our events will only be offered if all participants do so in a safe, responsible manner. This includes observing social distancing and wearing face coverings. If you wish to participate in the various events, you must agree to “play by the rules” – Participants must wear a face covering and observe 6-foot social distancing between family units. Children 2 years and younger are not required to wear face coverings provided they remain within the family-unit space. If you’re comfortable, go enjoy yourself – listen to some summer music, indulge in food truck offerings, cheer on our kids, celebrate American independence, and clean out the garage and basement of unwanted stuff. However, if you fear being in a crowd, or are uneasy about participating, please stay home.
The TrailMark Board assumes no responsibility for any illness caused by attending our events. If families, including children, do not observe social distancing and the use of face coverings, you will be asked to leave. Failure to leave when asked, or if it is determined that attendees are not observing our simple rules, then for the safety of all TrailMark residents future events may be cancelled. Jeffco Emergency Public Health Order. COVID-19 Guidelines. If you choose to attend our events, PLEASE do so responsibly. We all thank you.
Posted July 16, 2020
Food Truck Thursday with new Online Ordering!
Thursday, July 16th, 5:00-7:30 pm. DO NOT TRY TO ORDER BEFORE 5 PM. S. Field Way near TrailMark Park. SOCIAL DISTANCING IS MANDATORY! Trucks that will be available, along with their menu and ordering site, will be posted each week. NO WAITING. NO LINES. JUST ORDER AND PICK IT UP. Order food AT HOME and send 1 PERSON to pick up your order at the designated pick up time. Stand 6 feet apart to pick up food. Go home to eat. NO CONGREGATING AT THE PARK! Please respect the people who live on that street and keep your distance. For trucks that use Truckster: Download the Truckster app, hit magnifying glass at the bottom, type in the truck name, hit on menu button – done. Other truck links: Go straight to the ordering button. (Some ice cream trucks don’t have an online ordering option.) Links will go live at 5pm. Many order early so think about ordering late! DO NOT TRY TO ORDER BEFORE 5PM. You can’t order until the truck turns the ordering system on. The truck will message you back and tell you when your order will be ready. Then come pick up your food while adhering to social distancing. Thanks so much for following the guidelines to allow us to continue this opportunity for all! FOOD TRUCKS FOR JULY 16th: Rocky Mountain Cheesery, Sizzle, Kona Ice. Order using the Truckster app. (Instructions are listed above.) Food truck selections subject to change. COVID-19 GUIDELINES will be strictly followed for everyone at this event.
HOA Zoom Board Meeting
Thursday, July 9th, 7:00 pm. Public may join by internet or phone for the Zoom meeting. Internet: https://zoom.us/j/99441222809 (meeting ID: 994 4122 2809). Phone: call in at 346-248-7799 (meeting ID: 994 4122 2809). All are welcome. Agenda
Food Truck Thursday with new Online Ordering!
Thursday, July 9th, 5:00-7:30 pm. DO NOT TRY TO ORDER BEFORE 5 PM. S. Field Way near TrailMark Park SOCIAL DISTANCING IS MANDATORY! Trucks that will be available, along with their menu and ordering site, will be posted each week. NO WAITING. NO LINES. JUST ORDER AND PICK IT UP. Order food AT HOME and send 1 PERSON to pick up your order at the designated pick up time. Stand 6 feet apart to pick up food. Go home to eat. NO CONGREGATING AT THE PARK! Please respect the people who live on that street and keep your distance. For trucks that use Truckster: Download the Truckster app, hit magnifying glass at the bottom, type in the truck name, hit on menu button – done. Other truck links: Go straight to the ordering button. (Some ice cream trucks don’t have an online ordering option.) Links will go live at 5pm. Many order early so think about ordering late! DO NOT TRY TO ORDER BEFORE 5PM. You can’t order until the truck turns the ordering system on. The truck will message you back and tell you when your order will be ready. Then come pick up your food while adhering to social distancing. Thanks so much for following the guidelines to allow us to continue this opportunity for all! FOOD TRUCKS FOR JULY 9th: Pierogies Factory, The Bamboo Skewer. Order using the Truckster app. (Instructions are listed above.) Food truck selections subject to change. COVID-19 GUIDELINES will be strictly followed for everyone at this event.
Community Meeting regarding potential American Furniture Warehouse facility near Kipling & C-470
Case Type: Community Meeting. Case Number: 20-112792CMT. Case Name: American Furniture Warehouse. Where: Jefferson Corporate Center Ex Sur 5 (Minor Amd). General Location: Near Ute and Toller. Case Manager: Dillon Lackey, 303-271-8738, dlackey@co.jefferson.co.us. Purpose: Community Meeting to discuss potential rezoning from PD to a new PD to allow 190,000 sf American Furniture Warehouse facility. Community Meeting Information: Jul 06, 2020, 5:30 PM. Online Community Meeting. Please visit http://planning.jeffco.us for directions on how to join the meeting. This Community Meeting is required by the County in order to provide for an information exchange between the applicant and the community members. Documents for this case can be accessed through the Planning & Zoning Website – http://jeffco.us/planning-and-zoning/active-cases/, through the QR code below, or by contacting the case manager. Bonnie Benedik, Administration | Planning & Zoning Division, 100 Jefferson County Parkway, Golden, CO 80419, bbenedik@jeffco.us | 303-271-8745
4th of July Bike Parade
Saturday, July 4th, 9:00 am, TrailMark Park. Be in a parade with your decorated bike, wagon or scooter! Complimentary Otter Pops will be provided! (Sorry, no face painters, bounce house, coffee or donuts this year.) COVID-19 GUIDELINES will be strictly followed for everyone at this event. Sponsored by Lara Conrad HomeSmart Realty Group
Food Truck Thursday with new Online Ordering!
Thursday, July 2nd, 5:00-7:30 pm. DO NOT TRY TO ORDER BEFORE 5 PM. S. Field Way near TrailMark Park. SOCIAL DISTANCING IS MANDATORY! Trucks that will be available, along with their menu and ordering site, will be posted each week. NO WAITING. NO LINES. JUST ORDER AND PICK IT UP. Order food AT HOME and send 1 PERSON to pick up your order at the designated pick up time. Stand 6 feet apart to pick up food. Go home to eat. NO CONGREGATING AT THE PARK! Please respect the people who live on that street and keep your distance. For trucks that use Truckster: Download the Truckster app, hit magnifying glass at the bottom, type in the truck name, hit on menu button – done. Other truck links: Go straight to the ordering button. (Some ice cream trucks don’t have an online ordering option.) Links will go live at 5pm. Many order early so think about ordering late! DO NOT TRY TO ORDER BEFORE 5PM. You can’t order until the truck turns the ordering system on. The truck will message you back and tell you when your order will be ready. Then come pick up your food while adhering to social distancing. Thanks so much for following the guidelines to allow us to continue this opportunity for all! FOOD TRUCKS FOR JULY 2nd: Lucky Bird, Pile High Burgers, Sweet Cow. Order using the Truckster app. (Instructions are listed above.) Food truck selections subject to change.COVID-19 GUIDELINES will be strictly followed for everyone at this event.
Summer Pond Maintenance Information
The TrailMark Metro District (TMMD) is responsible for maintaining the ponds in TrailMark. The TMMD contracts with Aquatics Associates to maintain the water quality. Crews visit at least every two weeks to test and treat the water. Recently, residents reported seeing algae in Fairview Reservoir. Even with this monitoring, summer algae blooms can happen overnight when water temperatures are warm (76 degrees now) and also that treatment results are not immediate (i.e., usually takes 3-5 days). When blooms are ongoing, a follow up treatment is usually done as soon as the water chemistry recovers post-treatment. Questions about aeration were also received. The aeration is scheduled to run four hours on, four hours off so visitors to the area may not see the system running. During maintenance visits, the oxygen levels are tested and the timing of the system would be adjusted if needed.
The District hopes this maintenance information is helpful. However even with a plan in place, unexpected issues can pop up. We appreciate residents letting us know if they notice something out of the ordinary.
Posted July 1, 2020
All in a Day’s Work
A special Thank You to the CAC members who volunteered their time and energy to replant on the north side of the entrance on Saturday, June 27th.
Those getting down and dirty were: Randy and Patty Pabst, Wayne Lupton, Sandy Farish and Laurel Knaub. You are appreciated!
Posted July 1, 2020
Fireworks in Littleton
TrailMark is in the city limits of Littleton, therefore the city rules apply. From the City of Littleton’s website: “The sale or use of fireworks in the city limits of Littleton is illegal. The city has a zero-tolerance policy and those who are found lighting or selling fireworks in the city, including firecrackers and sparklers, will be ticketed. If you see or hear fireworks, report it to the Littleton Police nonemergency number at 303-794-1551.” Read more here.
Posted July 1, 2020
From Colorado Parks & Wildlife
BE ADVISED OF BEAR ACTIVITY IN YOUR COMMUNITY. CPW has received calls about bear activity in the TrailMark subdivision. Your community is located in known bear habitat. These intelligent bruins can be lured into communities due to attractants and the prospect of a free and easy meal. If attractants are not removed, bears will likely continue to linger in your neighborhood. Bears that rely on human food sources ultimately show an escalation of behavior that could result in a dangerous outcome where they may need to be euthanized. Removing attractants can help bears move out of your neighborhood on their own, reduce conflicts and keep you and the bears safe. The biggest attractants that lure bears into urban setting are trash and birdfeeders. You can help by adhering to the following: Secure your trash in a locked garage or outbuilding & ONLY place your trash outside on the morning of collection. Take down all birdfeeders (hummingbird, suet and seed) until Thanksgiving (including those on upper levels). Teach your children to be SMART if they have a close encounter with a bear: S – Stop. Do not run! M – Make yourself look big. A – Announce your presence in an authoritative voice “Leave me Alone!” R – Retreat by backing away slowly. T – Tell an adult about the encounter. Encourage your neighbors to do the same! Thank you for your assistance in keeping Colorado’s bears wild and alive! Learn more about living in bear country: https://cpw.state.co.us/…/…/LivingwithWildlifeWildBears.aspx or contact the CPW office at 303-291-7227. Source: TrailMark NextDoor.com
Posted June 25, 2020
Food Truck Thursday with new Online Ordering!
Thursday, June 25th, 5:00-7:30 pm. DO NOT TRY TO ORDER BEFORE 5 PM, S. Field Way near TrailMark Park. SOCIAL DISTANCING IS MANDATORY! Trucks that will be available, along with their menu and ordering site, will be posted each week. NO WAITING. NO LINES. JUST ORDER AND PICK IT UP. Order food AT HOME and send 1 PERSON to pick up your order at the designated pick up time. Stand 6 feet apart to pick up food. Go home to eat. NO CONGREGATING AT THE PARK! Please respect the people who live on that street and keep your distance. For trucks that use Truckster: Download the Truckster app, hit magnifying glass at the bottom, type in the truck name, hit on menu button – done. Other truck links: Go straight to the ordering button. (Some ice cream trucks don’t have an online ordering option.) Links will go live at 5pm. Many order early so think about ordering late! DO NOT TRY TO ORDER BEFORE 5PM. You can’t order until the truck turns the ordering system on. The truck will message you back and tell you when your order will be ready. Then come pick up your food while adhering to social distancing. Thanks so much for following the guidelines to allow us to continue this opportunity for all! FOOD TRUCKS FOR JUNE 25th: Post Oak BBQ, Chuey Fu’s, Repiccis Italian Ice & Gelato. Order using the Truckster app. (Instructions are listed above.) Food truck selections subject to change.
Alpine will be back today
Alpine Waste will be back out today to pick up the trash that in the areas that they missed. Please put your garbage cans back out. If your recycling was missed, they cannot send their recycling trucks back out today because they are short of drivers, but please give them a call so they can make a report of it. 303-744-9881
Posted June 24, 2020
Tree Concerns in TrailMark
Many of us residents in TrailMark have recently noticed bleached, yellow looking pine needles in our Austrian Pine trees. It sure looks like the trees are either diseased or sick. Well, you may be surprised at what one of our board members discovered! Board member Ken Colaizzi has a friend who owns a local tree servicing company in Arvada. The owner of the tree company, who is also a certified arborist, warned Ken and all of us to not freak out when we see our pine trees with yellow needles. The arborist mentioned that this year the trees were shocked by the lack of water and dehydrating winds along with the severe, rapid change of temperatures within 24 hours. The professionals call it winter damage. The tops of many pines, including the Austrian pine, suffered a blow. The arborist strongly suggests that you do NOT remove or cut anything from your trees now (unless necessary, and pruned by an arborist). The arborist also said that if the tree becomes engulfed in yellow pine needles, or gradually deteriorates, then he recommends the homeowner call a certified arborist to give his/her professional opinion on a treatment or removal plan for the tree. Just a friendly reminder, if you are going to remove a tree in a yard, it does require DRC approval. Forms can be found on the HOA Documents & Forms web page. Original TrailMark owner, and fellow board member, Bill Kuenning also had some words of advice in regards to his personal Austrian Pine tree. “My Austrian Pine tree periodically does what the arborists say it will by losing needles in patches – sometimes even mid tree. The guidance has always been to NOT remove or trim anything. Let the needles fall off and the branch do what it will, which is usually grow more at the tip and thin further in. When this has happened to us in the past, we have left the tree with no spraying or trimming… just watering; so there is no more trauma. It has always worked out very well and the tops lose what they will lose and recover upper growth. Feed them at least twice per year and try to avoid dry trauma.”
Posted June 20, 2020
Fence Paint/Stain Colors addendum
(Click on image to view document.)
Posted June 20, 2020Please bring your Garbage Cans back inside for the Night
Garbage trucks must leave the neighborhood by 7:00 pm. If your garbage was not picked up, PLEASE bring your garbage cans back inside for the night. Last week Alpine Waste & Recycling came back the next day to finish the route, so please put your containers back outside by 7:00 am Wednesday. https://alpinewaste.com/
Posted June 23, 2020
Food Truck Thursday
with new Online Ordering! Thursday, June 18th, 5:00-7:30 pm. DO NOT TRY TO ORDER BEFORE 5 PM. S. Field Way near TrailMark Park. SOCIAL DISTANCING IS MANDATORY! Trucks that will be available, along with their menu and ordering site, will be posted each week. NO WAITING. NO LINES. JUST ORDER AND PICK IT UP. Order food AT HOME and send 1 PERSON to pick up your order at the designated pick up time. Stand 6 feet apart to pick up food. Go home to eat. NO CONGREGATING AT THE PARK! Please respect the people who live on that street and keep your distance. For trucks that use Truckster: Download the Truckster app, hit magnifying glass at the bottom, type in the truck name, hit on menu button – done. Other truck links: Go straight to the ordering button. (Some ice cream trucks don’t have an online ordering option.) Links will go live at 5pm. Many order early so think about ordering late! DO NOT TRY TO ORDER BEFORE 5PM. You can’t order until the truck turns the ordering system on. The truck will message you back and tell you when your order will be ready. Then come pick up your food while adhering to social distancing. Thanks so much for following the guidelines to allow us to continue this opportunity for all! FOOD TRUCKS FOR JUNE 18th: Dos Gringos, Yogie’s Frozen Yogurt. Order using the Truckster app. (Instructions are listed above.) Food truck selections subject to change.
Alpine Waste will be back today
Alpine was not able to finish the route yesterday. Please put your trash cans back out. The area that was reported as missed is Flower Way to the east, and TrailMark Parkway to the north. If you are outside of this area and your trash was missed, please call Alpine Waste at 303-744-9881. https://alpinewaste.com/
Posted June 17, 2020
Family Photo Day #1
Saturday, June 13th, 6:00-8:00 pm. We have 3 amazing resident photographers offering 3 opportunities to get a free family portrait taken in our beautiful neighborhood. Sign up for ONE time slot and bring your family for 1 free family pose. THIS IS NOT A FULL SESSION. Please respect the photographers’ time and generosity. Additional poses may be available for purchase IF TIME ALLOWS. If you like the result, consider hiring one of these lovely ladies to do a full session with your family! *Note: There are 4 family slots available per 30 minute time. Arrive early in your time slot and be first in line. When you arrive please adhere to social distancing guidelines and wait for your family to be called up by the photographer. Wait time, therefore, should be no more than about 25 minutes! Please only sign up if you can commit to being there! June 13th Photographer: Kristin Blasi. Click here to sign up now!
TrailMark Paint Sample Books
Paint sample books are available for review again. However, all paint books that are borrowed must be wiped down/sanitized before returning. Contact the management company at designreview@trailmarkhoa.org to request a paint sample book.
Posted June 12, 2020
Food Truck Thursday
with new Online Ordering! Thursday, June 11th, 5:00-7:30 pm. DO NOT TRY TO ORDER BEFORE 5 PM. S Field Way near TrailMark Park. SOCIAL DISTANCING IS MANDATORY! Trucks that will be available, along with their menu and ordering site, will be posted each week. NO WAITING. NO LINES. JUST ORDER AND PICK IT UP. Order food AT HOME and send 1 PERSON to pick up your order at the designated pick up time. Stand 6 feet apart to pick up food. Go home to eat. NO CONGREGATING AT THE PARK! Please respect the people who live on that street and keep your distance. For trucks that use Truckster: Download the Truckster app, hit magnifying glass at the bottom, type in the truck name, hit on menu button – done. Other truck links: Go straight to the ordering button. (Some ice cream trucks don’t have an online ordering option.) Links will go live at 5pm. Many order early so think about ordering late! DO NOT TRY TO ORDER BEFORE 5PM. You can’t order until the truck turns the ordering system on. The truck will message you back and tell you when your order will be ready. Then come pick up your food while adhering to social distancing. Thanks so much for following the guidelines to allow us to continue this opportunity for all! FOOD TRUCKS FOR JUNE 11th: Farm to Truck, Mile High Cajun, Sweet Combforts. Order using the Truckster app. (Instructions are listed above.) Food truck selections subject to change.
4th of July Survey!
Special request from the social committee – As of June 10th, state regulations would NOT ALLOW for our annual 4th of July Bike Parade and Festivities. We are hoping for updated guidance from the governor before the end of June. Please take a moment to fill out this survey letting us know your interest and comfort level with the event, so we can make the best decision moving forward, if regulations change! (Survey is now closed.) If state orders don’t allow, then the event will be cancelled. Please check this website for any updates. Thank you so much! TrailMark HOA Social Committee, social@trailmarkhoa.org
Posted June 10, 2020Help a neighbor, share your spare!
Ten-year TrailMark resident, Noemi Aguilar, is in need of a living kidney donor. Without one, she will be on dialysis in 5-11 months. Visit kidney4life.net for details on how to apply and more info, call 720-937-5184, or email kidney4life@comcast.net. Thank you!
Posted June 9, 2020
The Denver Chalk Art Festival goes virtual this Saturday, June 6 and Sunday, June 7
From TrailMark resident Patty Beyers: This year the Denver Chalk Art Festival is entirely virtual for the first time. Anyone with a box of chalk is invited and encouraged to participate in your own neighborhood on your driveways, sidewalks and patios. It is a great way to express ourselves through art at this difficult time. We have our chalk ready and Natalie will be hard at work creating something beautiful to share this weekend. Please join us and share your own artwork using the hashtags #DenverChalkArtFestival and #LarimerSquare this weekend. Be sure to walk around TrailMark this weekend and enjoy the creativity of your neighbors! Not an HOA sponsored event. Denver Chalk Art Festival Information
Posted June 5, 2020
Food Truck Thursday
with new Online Ordering! Thursday, June 4th, 5:00-7:30 pm. DO NOT TRY TO ORDER BEFORE 5 PM. S. Field Way near TrailMark Park. SOCIAL DISTANCING IS MANDATORY! Trucks that will be available, along with their menu and ordering site, will be posted each week. NO WAITING. NO LINES. JUST ORDER AND PICK IT UP. Order food AT HOME and send 1 PERSON to pick up your order at the designated pick up time. Stand 6 feet apart to pick up food. Go home to eat. NO CONGREGATING AT THE PARK! Please respect the people who live on that street and keep your distance. For trucks that use Truckster: Download the Truckster app, hit magnifying glass at the bottom, type in the truck name, hit on menu button – done. Other truck links: Go straight to the ordering button. (Some ice cream trucks don’t have an online ordering option.) Links will go live at 5pm. Many order early so think about ordering late! DO NOT TRY TO ORDER BEFORE 5PM. You can’t order until the truck turns the ordering system on. The truck will message you back and tell you when your order will be ready. Then come pick up your food while adhering to social distancing. Thanks so much for following the guidelines to allow us to continue this opportunity for all! FOOD TRUCKS FOR JUNE 4th: Schnitzelwirt, Danger Zone Calzones. Order using the Truckster app. (Instructions are listed above.) Food truck selections subject to change.
Rockin’ our Neighborhood
These little treasures and many more have been spotted throughout TrailMark. (photos of painted rocks)Posted June 1, 2020
Covenant Enforcement Policy
Following up with the previous notice about a proposed change to the covenant enforcement policy in which the fine for completing exterior work to your home and yard/property without DRC approval would be increased to $250: After further discussion and consideration for all comments received, the Board of Directors have formally approved the change in the policy. The increased fine will take effect on June 1, 2020. The updated policy is posted on the HOA website for review.
Posted June 1, 2020
From the TrailMark HOA Facebook page…
Dave Soule captures the beauty of TrailMark on his morning hike.
Posted June 1, 2020
Congratulations, Class of 2020!
High school and college graduates of TrailMark were treated to an amazing yet safe Graduation Ceremony and Car Parade, hosted by TrailMark residents Lonnie and Michelle Somers, and Darcy Hickman. Photo credit: Twain Wilkins. To view more photos, visit https://photos.app.goo.gl/LNUNq3UvyE2691UP6
Posted June 1, 2020
Important Phone Numbers all in one place!
New—Find a list of important phone numbers on the home page of the website (trailmark.org, right-hand column). Or go to the website’s Who to Contact page for more detailed contact information!
Posted June 1, 2020
Want to get involved with your community?
Committees are the perfect way to get involved! TrailMark has a few committees that you can volunteer for, depending on your availability and expertise! The social committee, design review committee, common area committee, communication committee, and finance committee are all looking for people to join and help out! If you are interested and want more information such as time commitment, typical duties, meeting schedule, etc., please contact the Property Manager at akelly@crsofcolorado.com.
Posted June 1, 2020
Trex Fencing
You can match your fence to the new community Trex® Composite Fencing! If it is time to replace/repair your fence and you want to use the new Trex fencing, simply submit an application to the Design Review Committee for approval and be sure to note that you will be using the same color as the installed fence – Trex in the Saddle color. Trex Saddle is the only approved color for use in TrailMark.
Posted June 1, 2020
New TMMD Board Members
The TrailMark Metro District
welcomes new board members Ray Hallquist and Rick Handley.
Posted June 1, 2020
Garbage & Recycling Updates
Alpine/GFL does not accept PPE as Recycling. From GFL’s Facebook page – In case you were unsure: Please do NOT put PPE (personal protective equipment) such as facemasks in your recycling bins. Alpine/GFL is now recycling Keurig #5 coffee pods. From GFL’s Facebook page – We have taken another exciting step in the recycling evolution at GFL Environmental. Thanks to our partners at Keurig Dr Pepper and AMP Robotics, we are now recycling #5 coffee pods, including Keurig’s recyclable K-Cup® pods! Emptied coffee pods are now accepted in curbside recycling and will be processed in our single-stream recycling line. Alpine/GFL Automated Sustainability Report for TrailMark – APRIL 2020
Posted June 1, 2020
Food Truck Thursdays with new Online Ordering!
Thursday, May 28th, 5:00-8:00 pm. DO NOT TRY TO ORDER BEFORE 5 PM. S. Field Way near TrailMark Park. SOCIAL DISTANCING IS MANDATORY! Trucks that will be available, along with their menu and ordering site, will be posted each week. NO WAITING. NO LINES. JUST ORDER AND PICK IT UP. Order food AT HOME and send 1 PERSON to pick up your order at the designated pick up time. Stand 6 feet apart to pick up food. Go home to eat. NO CONGREGATING AT THE PARK! Please respect the people who live on that street and keep your distance. For trucks that use Truckster: Download the Truckster app, hit magnifying glass at the bottom, type in the truck name, hit on menu button – done. Other truck links: Go straight to the ordering button. (Some ice cream trucks don’t have an online ordering option.) Links will go live at 5pm. Many order early so think about ordering late! DO NOT TRY TO ORDER BEFORE 5PM. You can’t order until the truck turns the ordering system on. The truck will message you back and tell you when your order will be ready. Then come pick up your food while adhering to social distancing. Thanks so much for following the guidelines to allow us to continue this opportunity for all! FOOD TRUCKS FOR MAY 28th: Freddy’s Cuisine, Rocky Mountain Cheesery, Repicci’s Italian Ice & Gelato. Order using the Truckster app. (https://gotruckster.com/). Instructions are listed above. Food truck selections subject to change.
Garbage Pick-up delayed to May 27th
TrailMark’s garbage & recycling pick-up will be delayed from Tuesday, May 26th to Wednesday, May 27th due to the Memorial Day holiday. https://alpinewaste.com/
Honoring & Remembering
We Honor all those who have stepped forward to defend our Liberties. For those who gave their lives – for ours to continue, we take special pause, deeply acknowledging that our Freedoms, so hard-earned by them, are their priceless Legacy and our eternal, willing obligation to their Memory. The TrailMark HOA Board
Posted May 25, 2020
Food Truck Thursday with NEW Online Ordering!
Thursday, May 21st, 5:00-8:00 pm. DO NOT TRY TO ORDER BEFORE 5 PM. S Field Way near TrailMark Park. SOCIAL DISTANCING IS MANDATORY! Trucks that will be available, along with their menu and ordering site, will be posted each week. NO WAITING. NO LINES. JUST ORDER AND PICK IT UP. Order food AT HOME and send 1 PERSON to pick up your order at the designated pick up time. Stand 6 feet apart to pick up food. Go home to eat. NO CONGREGATING AT THE PARK! Please respect the people who live on that street and keep your distance. For trucks that use Truckster: Download the Truckster app, hit magnifying glass at the bottom, type in the truck name, hit on menu button – done. Other truck links: Go straight to the ordering button. (Ice cream trucks don’t have an online ordering option.) Links will go live at 5pm. Many order early so think about ordering late! DO NOT TRY TO ORDER BEFORE 5PM. You can’t order until the truck turns the ordering system on. The truck will message you back and tell you when your order will be ready. Then come pick up your food while adhering to social distancing. Thanks so much for following the guidelines to allow us to continue this opportunity for all! FOOD TRUCKS FOR MAY 21st: OG Burger, Danger Zone Calzones, Kona Ice – *Order at the truck. Keep your distance and wear masks, please. Food truck selections subject to change.
TMMD Regular Meeting
Tuesday, May 19th, 6:30 pm. Due to COVID restrictions, the May 19th Regular meeting of the TrailMark Metro District will be held as an online Zoom meeting. The agenda includes the link for the public to participate. This meeting finishes the terms of Directors Fankhouser and Handley and we thank them for their years of service. Also at the meeting, Ray Hallquist will be sworn in as a new Director to the Board. Agenda, Zoom Meeting link
Summer Concert Series
REBECCA FOLSOM BAND – POSTPONED. New Date: TBD, Hogback Hill Park
Posted May 18, 2020
TrailMark Graduate Car Parade
Saturday, May 16th, 12:15-1:00 pm, Streets of TrailMark. A social-distancing car parade through the neighborhood to show off our graduates to all of the neighbors! Come out of your house and support the 2020 graduates! The parade will start on South Holland right at 12:15pm and expect to last about 45 minutes. Please come out with your noise makers and smiles to cheer on the TrailMark graduates! Here is the route to plan a good spot to view the parade! https://www.plotaroute.com/route/1114446?fbclid=IwAR392WWun1i0dPBvgw__Fg_rrLqjrGvQAtWXSznFqOGdpyWAdRI1vDKjB-M
TrailMark Graduation Ceremony and Car Parade
CALLING ALL TRAILMARK GRADUATES, High School, College or above! Join us for a make-shift graduation ceremony on May 16th from 10 am – 12 pm (approximate) at Hogback Hill. Sign up for a 5 minute time slot to be recognized at a ceremony with your family. You may submit a photo and 2-3 minute bio to Lonnie Somers at lonnie@halsports.net. Include where you are graduating from, any degrees, other significant accomplishments from your high school or college career, plans for next year, etc. Whatever you want to highlight! Lonnie will read your bio as he announces you through the graduation arch and backdrop. Come in your cap and gown or whatever you chose. Bring your cameras and family for a photo op at our graduation arch and background. A professional photographer will also be available to take photos! Feel free to Zoom, Face Time, Skype with family and friends to hear and see your accomplishments. DEADLINE TO SIGN UP AND SUBMIT BIOS IS MAY 10TH at 8 PM. Please sign up for the earliest available time slot, to avoid gaps in the celebration. Also, arrive at least 10 minute prior to your scheduled slot to avoid any delays and respect others time. *Note, this portion is open to graduates and their families only and we will have cones/signs to meet proper social distancing requirements! THEN, have your cars/trucks decorated and ready to go, for a social-distancing car parade through the neighborhood to show off your graduate to all the neighbors! A designated start time and meeting location will be announced once we have our time slots for the ceremony filled. A route will be provided to the neighborhood, so everyone can come out and cheer on the graduates! WE CAN’T WAIT TO CELEBRATE ALL OF OUR TRAILMARK GRADUATES!
The Common Area Committee Wants YOU!!!!!!
TrailMark Common Area Committee (CAC) is seeking at least two new members.* If you are interested in the mission statement below and wish to be a part of the decisions herein, please contact Angie at CRS (akelly@crsofcolorado.com) or Mary Kreeger at secretary@trailmarkhoa.org. MISSION: The mission of the TrailMark Common Area Committee is to promote community enjoyment of the landscaped and natural surroundings of TrailMark with a strong dedication to preserving and protecting the natural environment. VISION: Nature Preservation – Strive to preserve the natural beauty and protect the delicate ecosystems of the common areas of TrailMark, including involvement with the end systems, wetlands, wildlife and natural prairies. TrailMark HOA Common Area Management – Manage planning, improving and maintenance of the HOA Common Area. Put up annual Holiday Lights and decorations. Community Involvement – Promote community involvement through volunteer enhancement and beautification projects and resident monitoring of open space and other undeveloped areas of TrailMark. Keep residents informed by submitting articles to the newsletter and posting information on the TrailMark website. Work with Linking Entities – Work closely with South Suburban Parks and Recreation, TrailMark Metropolitan District and the City of Littleton in the planning, improving and maintenance of the open spaces of TrailMark. Promote regional awareness and cooperation by being a liaison with our neighbors: Jefferson County Open Space, Denver Botanic Gardens at Chatfield, Chatfield State Park and Army Corps of Engineers. *Typically meetings are every other month. Please contact Mary Kreeger at secretary@trailmarkhoa.org.
Posted May 1, 2020; Revised May 15, 2020
Alpine/GFL does not accept PPE as Recycling
From GFL’s Facebook page – In case you were unsure: Please do NOT put PPE (personal protective equipment) such as facemasks in your recycling bins.
Posted May 14, 2020
HOA Board Meeting to be held via Zoom video conferencing
Thursday, May 14th, 7:00 pm. Please do not go to the fire station, but public may join by computer or phone for the Zoom meeting. https://zoom.us/j/99829452542 (meeting ID: 998 2945 2542) OR: call in at 346-248-7799 (meeting ID: 998 2945 2542). Agenda. All are welcome.
Food Truck Thursday with NEW Online Ordering!
Thursday, May 14th, 5:00-8:00 pm. DO NOT TRY TO ORDER BEFORE 5 PM. S. Field Way near TrailMark Park. SOCIAL DISTANCING IS MANDATORY! Trucks that will be available, along with their menu and ordering site, will be posted each week. NO WAITING. NO LINES. JUST ORDER AND PICK IT UP. Order food AT HOME and send 1 PERSON to pick up your order at the designated pick up time. Stand 6 feet apart to pick up food. Go home to eat. NO CONGREGATING AT THE PARK! Please respect the people who live on that street and keep your distance. For trucks that use Truckster: Download the Truckster app, hit magnifying glass at the bottom, type in the truck name, hit on menu button – done. Other truck links: Go straight to the ordering button. (Ice cream trucks don’t have an online ordering option.) Links will go live at 5pm. Many order early so think about ordering late! DO NOT TRY TO ORDER BEFORE 5PM. You can’t order until the truck turns the ordering system on. The truck will message you back and tell you when your order will be ready. Then come pick up your food while adhering to social distancing. Thanks so much for following the guidelines to allow us to continue this opportunity for all! FOOD TRUCKS FOR MAY 14th: Meatball – https://eatatmeatball.square.site/, The Bamboo Skewer – https://www.gotruckster.com/food-truck/the-bamboo-skewer, Repiccis Italian Ice & Gelato – https://gotruckster.com/, Food truck selections subject to change.
State Park Pass Update
VOUCHER REDEMPTION: The State Park offices and visitor centers are closed. Please use this Google Form – Voucher Redemption to get your voucher redeemed for a park pass while the visitor centers and offices are closed. They will receive the response and mail the pass out to each of the clients. Put the voucher in your window until you receive you’re pass in the mail. Be sure to submit your form ASAP for quicker turn around. Note – If you are unable to upload a picture of your voucher, then email the picture of it to Michael.lloyd@state.co.us after you’ve completed and submitted your form. If the link doesn’t work, then copy and paste into your browser. Voucher Redemption Form; State Park Pass information
Posted May 9, 2020; Updated May 14, 2020
State Park Pass update
There is a second pick-up day Monday, May 11 between 4-9pm at 9831 S Flower Ct for those who ordered and paid for them. Call with questions 720-201-0311. Please practice social distancing. VOUCHER REDEMPTION: The State Park offices and visitor centers are closed. Please use this Google Form – Voucher Redemption to get your voucher redeemed for a park pass while the visitor centers and offices are closed. They will receive the response and mail the pass out to each of the clients. Put the voucher in your window until you receive you’re pass in the mail. Be sure to submit your form ASAP for quicker turn around. Note – If you are unable to upload a picture of your voucher, then email the picture of it to Michael.lloyd@state.co.us after you’ve completed and submitted your form. If the link doesn’t work, then copy and paste into your browser.
Posted May 9, 2020; Updated May 10, 2020
State Park Passes ready for pick-up Saturday, May 9th
CO State Park Passes are ready for pick up Saturday, May 9th between 10 am to 5 pm at 9831 S. Flower Court for those who ordered and paid for them. Call with questions 720-201-0311. Please practice social distancing. Thank you. Deahna Visscher
Food Truck Thursdays to start up on May 7th with NEW Online Ordering
Food trucks will start coming to TrailMark on Thursday, May 7th, from 5:00-8:00 pm by TrailMark Park. There will be two trucks each Thursday in May with an online ordering system! Order your food through the trucks’ websites or the Truckster app (for some trucks). Trucks that will be available, along with their menu and ordering site, will be posted each week. The truck will message you when your order is ready. Come pick up your food and stay safe adhering to social distancing! ORDERING BEGINS AT 5 PM – Do not try to order before 5 pm. SOCIAL DISTANCING IS MANDATORY – Be sure to stand at least 6 feet from the next patron. Please send only one person per household to limit number of people present. Food Trucks on May 7th: DUDE BRO TACO, GYROS KING will be here after all!!!! HIGH POINT CREAMERY. No Waiting. No Lines. Just order and pick it up. For trucks that use Truckster: Download the Truckster app, hit magnifying glass at the bottom, type in the truck name, hit on menu button – done. Other truck links: Go straight to the ordering button. Ordering can begin when service begins at 5:00-8:00pm; many order early so think about ordering late! DO NOT TRY TO ORDER BEFORE 5PM. You can’t order until the truck turns the ordering system on. The truck will message you back and tell you when your order will be ready. Then come pick up your food while adhering to social distancing. Trucks are subject to change. FOOD TRUCK THURSDAY DATES IN MAY: May 7, 14, 21, 28
Alpine/GFL is now recycling Keurig #5 coffee pods
From GFL’s Facebook page: We have taken another exciting step in the recycling evolution at GFL Environmental. Thanks to our partners at Keurig Dr Pepper and AMP Robotics, we are now recycling #5 coffee pods, including Keurig’s recyclable K-Cup® pods! Emptied coffee pods are now accepted in curbside recycling and will be processed in our single-stream recycling line.
Posted May 6, 2020
New Window Walk theme!
May 6-10 – Hi all! Thanks to all who participated in our Zoo week last week. Each week we’ll post the topic/item. Have your windows ready to go by that Friday and leave them up for the weekend (or until the next week’s item is to be posted)! Week 5: HAPPY MOTHER’S DAY! NO MAP for this one. Instead, TAKE A PICTURE, from inside or outside, of your “tribute to Mom” in it’s window and post it to the TrailMark HOA Facebook page, or email it to the social committee at social@trailmarkhoa.org. All photos will be posted to the Window Walk web page (https://www.trailmark.org/window-walk-series.html), so use them to hunt for those special tributes! Have your decor and photos (optional) ready by the morning of Friday, May 8th! New post next week! The TrailMark Social Committee
Posted May 6, 2020
Garage Sale Postponed
The TrailMark community Garage Sale has been postponed to July 17th & 18th.
Posted May 3, 2020
Generosity throughout TrailMark
Through these challenging times, the residents of TrailMark have been making life a bit more special for us. Here are a few [photos]… (upper-left) The Easter Bunny makes a socially-distant visit to the neighborhood, thanks to the Keith family and the social committee (photo by Darcy Hickman); (top-middle) Lonnie Somers hosts a dance party, at a distance of course; (upper-right) T-Rex roams the neighborhood in honor of Jurassic week (photo by Deahna Visscher); (lower-left) Scott Neil plays his bagpipes at sundown (photo by Scott Neil); (lower-middle) The Visscher family creates a game of Chutes & Ladders for families to enjoy (photo by Deahna Visscher); (lower-right) Catherine Riegle, Barbra Sobhani, Lisa Neil, Elisa Gray and others make face masks for their neighbors (photo by Barbra Sobhani). And a “woot woot” to those who howl and cheer at 8 pm! Please report other generous acts that have been spotted in the neighborhood, which will be considered for publication in the June newsletter. communications@trailmarkhoa.org
Posted May 1, 2020
Congratulations to Dalton Keene and the whole Keene family of TrailMark!
Dalton has been drafted to the New England Patriots. His bio from Virginia Tech’s website – https://hokiesports.com/sports/football/roster/daltonkeene/9567
Posted May 1, 2020
Letters from concerned TrailMark Residents
“Star Canyon trails are private – Please use them with respect” It is so nice to see so many families out together enjoying our beautiful TrailMark neighborhood and trails! With that being said, we in the Star Canyon Patio Homes and Condos would like to ask you to respect our landscaping when you come through. The trail which goes through the Patio Homes is actually a “private” trail, that is, it is owned and maintained by the Patio Homes’ own HOA. We are happy to have it open to all of TrailMark. However, when you go off the trail, you are in our community open space and also in our back yards. We pay to have this area maintained and it can be easily damaged, especially by bicycles going over the grassy hills just off the trails. We don’t have fences to protect our private property, but please be aware it is our private property and be respectful. Thank you! Star Canyon resident.
“The Self-Walking Dog” There was a small dog (chihuahua?) at the west side of the big pond the other day. It was on the sidewalk/grass and trail along the side street. There was no owner, no leash, and no collar that I could see. It did its business on the grass, walked around, and then crossed the street and “headed home.“ I had stopped my walk, at a safe distance, to figure out if it was loose, lost, etc. and to look-up a number for animal control as I didn’t want a coyote, angry goose, or car, to get it if its owner didn’t show up. A neighbor advised that it lives nearby. If you could post a reminder about dog-leash/owner rules it’s appreciated, as this seems a bit risky for the dog, wildlife, and humans. Thank you, TrailMark resident.
Follow-up from our HOA Board: TrailMark Residents – Please consider your neighbors and our environment when enjoying the great place in which we live. Our open spaces and trails are maintained to protect and restore the original foothills environment and tranquil setting. However, people walking across the open spaces, dogs running off-leash, and children riding bikes off-trail are damaging our trails and open spaces. TrailMark’s HOA does not have jurisdiction over these issues. Our community trails and open spaces are the responsibility of South Suburban Parks and Recreation (SSPR), and the trail that goes through the Star Canyon patio homes is owned and maintained by the patio homeowners. Help us keep our community beautiful and safe. If you see something, say something. To report issues about our trails and/or open space, contact SSPR at 303-798-5131 or go to their website at http://www.ssprd.org/contact-us. TrailMark leash laws are enforced by the City of Littleton. Leash law offenders may be reported to the City of Littleton police department’s non-emergency number, 303-794-1551. (Pictures and locations are helpful.) However, we hope that all will be responsible neighbors and will enjoy our surroundings with respect.
City of Littleton, title 6 0 Police Regulations state: 6-2-3: RUNNING AT LARGE PROHIBITED: (A) Responsibility Of Owner: It shall be unlawful for any owner to have a dog running at large within the city. It shall not be a defense to this section that the owner did not permit the dog to be running at large. (B) Animals Injured While At Large: Dogs or cats injured on public property while running at large shall be removed by the animal control officer and given adequate veterinary medical treatment if deemed necessary by the officer, pending notification of the owner. The owner of such animals shall be liable for all veterinary expenses and impoundment fees. (C) Animals Found Dead After Being At Large: If any dog or cat dies while running at large in the city, the owner shall be liable for disposal fees established by the animal shelter in addition to penalties for violation of this section. (Ord. 18, Series of 1982). 6-2-4: INADEQUATE RESTRAINTS PROHIBITED: It shall be unlawful for the owner of any dog to permit such dog to be off the premises of such owner unless such dog is on a leash no longer than six feet (6′) and strong enough to control such animal and held by a person competent to restrain such animal. (Ord. 21, Series of 1977)
Posted May 1, 2020
From the TrailMark HOA Facebook page…
Chip is responsibly keeping his distance from people, other dogs, and geese. [photo]
Posted May 1, 2020
Garbage & Recycling Updates
Keep Trash Cans inside until morning of pick up Trash containers may only be placed curbside the morning of pick up – TRAILMARK POLICY! A bear was reported in TrailMark last month. PLEASE keep your trash bins inside until Tuesday mornings, for the safety of our residents and our bears!
Posted May 1, 2020
Awesome turnout for this year’s “Egg Hunt”
THANK YOU to all who participated in the Easter Egg Window/House Hiding and Hunting! Amazing participation! Even when we can get back to our normal hunt, we may keep this going next year! Congrats to our best hunters: Thurber Family (over 500 eggs found!), Myers Family, Starritt Family, Fells Family, Versaw Family. And to our top 5 houses (separate from the best hunters): 9831 S. Flower Ct, 9617 W. TrailMark Pkwy, 9540 S. Flower Way, 9345 S. Hoyt Ct, 9445 W. Freiburg Pl. A special thanks to Janet Weymiller for providing Chick-fil-A coupons as prizes.
Posted May 1, 2020
Littleton Programs & Services
Senior Refund Program: Since 1977, the Littleton City Council has annually renewed its Senior Refund Program, providing the city’s senior residents with a refund. A letter to past recipients was mailed recently. The program is available to both renters and property owners. For property owners, the refund is based on the property’s assessed valuation. Refund amounts range from $10 to $100. Refunds for renters range from $10 to $30. For those whose property title was transferred to a trust or other legal entity for estate planning purposes, they may now be eligible for a property tax refund based on the property’s assessed valuation. Applicants must have been 65 years of age or older on or before December 31, 2019 and resided within the Littleton city limits for the entire year of 2019. Newly-eligible residents can obtain forms and information from the City of Littleton Finance Office at finsb@littletongov.org. The deadline for filing is October 31, 2020. Bemis Library: The library has added a new chat service on the Bemis Library home page where citizens can connect with a librarian to get help accessing eBooks, using digital resources, get recommended reading lists, find online homework help, and much more. The chat service is open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Shop Locally: It’s important to shop locally and support Littleton restaurants and businesses whenever possible. To find out more about #LittletonCurbside visit go2littleton.com.
Posted May 1, 2020
State Park Pass update
Park Pass vouchers are expected to be distributed by mid-May. (Vouchers can be turned in at a state park for your vehicle’s Annual Park Pass.) https://www.trailmark.org/colorado-state-park-pass.htmlPosted May 1, 2020.
New Window Walk theme!
April 27-May 3. Hi all! Thanks to all who participated in our Hawaii week last week. Each week we’ll post the topic/item. Have your windows ready to go by that Friday and leave them up for the weekend (or until the next week’s item is to be posted)! Week 4: WE ARE GOING TO THE ZOO!
NO MAP for this one. Instead, TAKE A PICTURE, from inside or outside, of your zoo-themed decor in it’s window and post it to the TrailMark HOA Facebook page, or email it to the social committee at social@trailmarkhoa.org. All photos will be posted to the Window Walk web page (https://www.trailmark.org/window-walk-series.html), so use them to hunt for those wild animals! Have your decor and photos (optional) ready by the morning of Friday, May 1st! New post next week! The TrailMark Social Committee
Posted April 26, 2020
New Window Walk Series!
Beginning the week of April 20th! Hi all! Thanks to all who participated in our Jurassic Park week last week. Each week we’ll post the topic/item. Have your windows ready to go by that Friday and leave them up for the weekend (or until the next weeks item is to be posted! Week 3: ALOHA HAWAII! (Because it’s pretty safe to say we would all like to be there right now!) Added twist! NO MAP for this one. Instead, TAKE A PICTURE, from inside or outside, of your Hawaii-themed decor in it’s window and post it to the TrailMark HOA Facebook page, or email it to the social committee at social@trailmarkhoa.org. All photos will be posted to the Window Walk web page (https://www.trailmark.org/window-walk-series.html), so use them to hunt for those tropical dreams! Have your decor and pictures (optional) ready by the morning of Friday, April 24th! New post next week! The TrailMark Social Committee
Posted April 21, 2020
T-Rex to roam the streets of TrailMark
In honor of Jurassic week there will be a live T-Rex roaming the hood Saturday, April 18th starting at 10am. Watch for him!
Calling all 2020 High School and College graduates in TrailMark – We want to celebrate YOU!
Please send us the following for a special Graduation page in the May newsletter… Your first and last name; A recent image of yourself in JPEG or PNG format; The name of the school that you are graduating from; A small write-up about yourself in 50 words or less: your major, the college you plan to attend, career plans….. Please email your submissions to the communications committee at communications@trailmarkhoa.org by Thursday, April 23. All submissions will be subject to review, and edited as needed. TrailMark HOA Board
Posted April 16, 2020
Signs of the Times
You may have noticed these temporary little additions to the TrailMark entrance, brought to you by our HOA board. Please stay healthy and safe! (photos by Ken Colaizzi).
Posted April 15, 2020
State Park Pass deadline delayed
The payment due date for the 2020 Colorado State Park Pass bulk offer is extended to at least April 15th. We will know more once the Coronavirus issue is stable.
State Park Pass update
Due to quarantine, the park passes are currently anticipated to be distributed in May. State Park passes that expire are being given a 1-month extension. https://www.trailmark.org/colorado-state-park-pass.html
Posted April 13, 2020.
New Window Walk Series!
Beginning the week of April 13th! Each week we’ll post the topic/item. Have your windows ready to go by that Friday and leave them up for the weekend (or until the next week’s item is to be posted)! Week 2: WELCOME TO JURASSIC PARK! Added twist! NO MAP for this one. Instead, TAKE A PICTURE, from inside or outside, of your dinosaurs/Jurassic Park decor in it’s window and post it on the TrailMark HOA Facebook page, or email it to social@trailmarkhoa.org. Now use the photos to hunt for those dinosaurs! Have your decor and pictures (optional) ready by the morning of Friday, April 17th! Photos will be posted on the Window Walk Series page – https://www.trailmark.org/window-walk-series.html New post next week! Please direct questions and concerns to social@trailmarkhoa.org.
Easter Bunny Alert!
We’ve just received news that the Easter Bunny will be driving through every street in TrailMark in his “Egg Mobile” to wave to everyone, Saturday, April 11th, starting at 10 am! He will start in the front section at 10 am and work his way to the back. Approximately 10:15 for the middle and 10:30 for the back. Listen for the honking and come out to wave as he goes by!
Spreading cheer in TrailMark
As you are seeing around the area, holiday lights are going back up to offer a bright spot in this difficult time. TrailMark HOA would be happy to see many of you do the same! The regulations for holiday lights will be put on hold for the time being. This is not an indefinite allowance for holiday lights, but feel free to put them back up and spread some cheer. The HOA will ask that the lights come down once restrictions are lifted and people are starting to move about normally again. While we are unsure when this is, the HOA will continue to put notices on the website, in the newsletter and on social media to ensure everyone is informed.
Posted April 8, 2020
New Window Walk Series!
Beginning the week of April 6th! Each week we’ll post the topic/item. Have your windows ready to go by that Friday and leave them up for the weekend (or until the next weeks item is to be posted! Week 1: WE ARE GOING ON A BEAR HUNT! We know this was done already, but it wasn’t officially included until now. Added twist! NO MAP for this one. Instead, TAKE A PICTURE, from inside or outside, of your bear in it’s window and email it to social@trailmarkhoa.org. Now use the photos to hunt for the bears in their windows! Have your bears and pictures (optional) ready by the morning of Friday, April 10th! Photos will be posted on the Window Walk Series page – https://www.trailmark.org/window-walk-series.html New post next week! Please direct questions and concerns to social@trailmarkhoa.org.
Posted April 6, 2020
TrailMark Paint Sample Book
Note: As of June 12, 2020, this information is no longer valid. Please refer to new post on the Design Review Committee page.
Due to COVID Stay-At-Home and the potential danger of passing on the virus, the TrailMark exterior paint scheme books will not be distributed to homeowners at the present time. The color schemes were scanned to make them available on our website but the scanned colors are significantly distorted. Homeowners, then, have a few options: 1. Using the color scheme chart on the HOA website, go to any open Sherwin Williams store to get paint chips. See the chart here: https://www.trailmark.org/uploads/3/9/0/8/39089355/approvedpaintcolors_sw_201907.pdf. If the color scheme you choose is one of those in the paint books, paint chips are not required with your request. 2. Select a color scheme of your own. Please keep in mind that TrailMark’s standard color scheme is brown / earth tones for siding fascia, trim, exposed beams and garage doors – to blend with our community and surrounding environment. Complimentary colors for shutters, entry doors, front porch railings are considered. If you create your own color scheme, you must submit paint chips with your request. 3. Delay house painting until the Stay-At-Home directive is cancelled and the paint sample books will again be available. Homeowners who have received an exterior paint violation will receive a short-term extension. A reminder: All exterior projects require DRC review and approval prior to initiating a project. Go to https://www.trailmark.org/hoa-documents-amp-forms.html to obtain the forms. The DRC reviews project requests the first and third week of every month. To ensure your project receives timely review, have your forms and relevant project documentation to the management company the Friday prior to the DRC review. Send to designreview@trailmarkhoa.org.
Posted April 5, 2020
A BIG SHOUT OUT TO TRAILMARK
FOR COMPLYING WITH THE STAY-AT-HOME DIRECTIVE!! Your care and concern for your neighbors is MUCH appreciated. Only with your help can we BEAT THIS VIRUS!!!
Posted April 3, 2020
COVID-19 – We’re all in this together… at a distance
The COVID-19 disease and restrictions have taken us in a direction most have never experienced. Our lives have changed. Regardless of the daily warnings and guidance of this very serious disease, it is abundantly clear that many TrailMark residents are not observing the state-wide stay-at-home directive. Social Distancing guidance is to stay at least 6 feet away from non-familial members. However, we are witnessing high risk, non-essential activities in TrailMark, putting everybody at risk of contracting this very dangerous and deadly disease. Many families continue to have play dates, yard gatherings and even a birthday party, when 30 people gathered in celebration. Many are maintaining only 2 to 4 feet distance away from each other. In a pandemic, this is crazy, reckless behavior. As the Governor said, “These behaviors are dangerous for individuals and communities.” TrailMark residents have voiced concern over these behaviors. We should all be concerned. THE GOVERNOR ORDERED – On March 25th, Governor Polis issued a mandatory statewide stay-at-home order, an attempt to slow the spread of COVID-19. The order is in effect March 26th to at least April 11th. Subsequently, the City of Littleton and Jefferson County published information regarding their response to the virus. To stay abreast of developments, below are several of the many sites that are publishing the stay-athome order and further guidance – how to implement, to whom it applies, who is exempt, and other relevant information: State of Colorado COVID-19 information: https://covid19.colorado.gov/. City of Littleton’s COVID-19 information: https://www.littletongov.org/mylittleton/covid-19-coronavirus-information. LET’S GET IT TOGETHER – Come on, folks. Let’s all comply with the mandatory order. Do your part to help slow down and rid us of this very dangerous disease. While some progress has been made, it takes only a few to turn that progress into further disaster. Let’s all contribute to getting businesses open, schools in session, and all of us back to our normal activities. “It takes a village,” and everybody has a part to play.
Posted April 1, 2020
Homeowners, please take note
The policy regarding fines for completing exterior work without DRC approval is changing. After much discussion and consideration of comments received from homeowners, the board has voted to increase the fine if DRC approval is not obtained prior to a project starting on the exterior of a home. The fine will now be $250. If you follow the process and obtain DRC approval, this fine is not an issue. The intent is to ensure the people are following the rules of the HOA and obtaining approval. Please note this policy change will go into effect May 1, 2020. If you have a question about whether or not your work needs approval, the best course of action is to ask. KINDLY NOTE: If you have any questions about whether or not your work needs approval, or about a violation notice, the best course of action is to immediately communicate/ask. Angie Kelly, CRS, Phone: 303-381-4980, Email: akelly@crsofcolorado.com
Posted April 1, 2020
HOA Assessments Due April 1st
As a reminder, HOA Assessments are due April 1st. If you have any questions, please contact Angie Kelly at Community Resource Services. TrailMark HOA Board
April 1st is Census Day
Hey, #Littleton! You count!!! Today is #2020Census Day, take 10 min and fill it out 2020Census.gov. Did you know each year, Census data informs federal funding for more than 100 programs, including school lunches, highway construction, and education??
Posted April 1, 2020
From the TrailMark HOA Facebook page…
The Hetzel family enjoys take-out while practicing social distancing.
https://www.facebook.com/groups/trailmark/ [photo]
Posted April 1, 2020
Volunteer Community Emergency Network of TrailMark (VCENT)
This special neighbor-to-neighbor helping network is inspired by all of the recent COVID-19 challenges and urgencies. However, the intent is for this network to be relevant to many issues in our Community. Read full article / sign up
Posted March 23, 2020
Neighborhood Window Walks
Participate in our Neighborhood Window Walks! Just print or draw a picture(s) to post in a visible window before the given date. Families can get out and exercise while searching for the hidden images!
Posted March 19, 2020
Summer Concert Dates are set!*
All concerts are 5:30-7:30 pm. Grab your lawn chairs and blankets. Bring your own food, or enjoy our food truck! See you all there! June 7: Rebecca Folsom Band, Aug 2: South Austin Moonlighters, Aug 30: Cindy and the Protractors. *Circumstances permitting
Posted March 19, 2020
TrailMark Easter Egg Hunt postponed
A new date is yet to be determined. Stay tuned!
Posted March 19, 2020
Law Enforcement Warning
Law Enforcement and the Red Cross advise there are people in some areas going door-to-door saying that they are authorized to do “home testing” for the Coronavirus. This is NOT TRUE!!!! When permitted, they do the PRETEND TEST and charge for it or rob them. If someone like this comes to your door, DO NOT allow them into your home and CALL THE POLICE. (Sent to the TrailMark HOA by a law enforcement representative.)
Posted March 17, 2020
TMMD Meeting Cancelled
Please note: Due to travel schedules, the TMMD Meeting for March 17th has been cancelled. The next meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, May 19th.
HOA Board Meeting
Thursday, March 12th, 7:00 pm, Fire Station 19, All are welcome. Agenda. Notice: The bi-monthly HOA Board meeting will be conducted this evening as scheduled – 7:00 PM at the Fire Station. In consideration of COVID-19 and to comply with basic health safety issues, the following is provided for your information: The meeting is being conducted in an open, well-ventilated area. Meeting surfaces (tables, chairs, door knobs, and some other surfaces) will be disinfected with an anti-bacterial/anti-viral solution. Social distancing is encouraged but it is each person’s responsibility to observe. The stated social distance is 6 feet per person. Given recent past attendance, the station bay will accommodate this distance. South Metro has requested that meeting attendees have no contact with the fire fighters. Please respect this request. If you are ill, have been in contact with someone with COVID-19, have a “cold” or other such malady, please do not attend the meeting. If you wish to provide input to the meeting and cannot attend, please send emails to board@trailmarkhoa.org. Thank you for your understanding as we all do our part to combat this virus. TrailMark HOA Board, Board@trailmarkhoa.org
TrailMark/Wadsworth intersection: Southbound ‘Right turn on Red’
The following article contains new information, posted as a service to TrailMark residents. Until recently, authorities told the HOA that the law was to stop at the red light before proceeding. With many more phone calls and emails from the HOA, it was confirmed that stopping is NOT required, which is why we felt a need for this update. ISSUE: Over the years, there has been a great deal of driver confusion, concerning the proper/legal way for southbound Wadsworth drivers to turn right, onto westbound TrailMark Parkway, when the north/south traffic light is red (refer to the intersection layout drawing, below). Some drivers making this turn, on red, come to a full stop and then proceed, while other drivers slow and continue the right turn, without stopping for the red light. The debate amongst drivers is, “which of these two driver approaches is correct/lawful?” SAFETY: Because drivers interpret this right turn on red, onto TrailMark Parkway, in two manners – stopping and not stopping – there are safety concerns that the mix of the two right turn on red approaches could cause collisions. Specifically, if a driver reaches the intersection to turn right on red, and the non-stopping driver is closely following the stopping driver, there is the risk of an accident. In this case, the following driver is at fault. HOA RESEARCH FOR CLARIFICATION: The HOA Board did extensive research with those responsible for building, maintaining, and regulating the intersection, as well as those responsible for enforcing compliance of traffic laws, requesting definitive guidelines/laws for that specific right turn on red. The HOA consulted the City of Littleton, CDOT, the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Department, and the Colorado State Patrol (CSP) for their specific guidance. CDOT built and maintains the intersection, Jefferson County Sheriff’s Department enforces TrailMark Parkway, and the Colorado State Patrol, CSP, is responsible for Wadsworth. The different agencies gave varied interpretations and they all finally deferred to the Colorado State Patrol for the final answer because CSP enforces this intersection. CSP GUIDELINES FOR SOUTHBOUND WADSWORTH ONTO WESTBOUND TRAILMARK PARKWAY, RIGHT TURN ON RED 1. Stop not required: Southbound – The right, curb-side, turning lane onto TrailMark Parkway is a continuous flow right turn lane (delineated by a solid, north-to-south white line), which continues around the corner, onto TrailMark Parkway. Furthermore, there is no white stop line on southbound Wadsworth at the traffic light. Therefore, a stop is NOT required for a southbound Wadsworth driver, who is making a right-hand turn onto westbound TrailMark Parkway. 2. Stop optional: Whereas a stop is not required, as discussed above, the turning driver still has the legal right to stop on red before making the right turn. 3. When right turn on red is not allowed: When a pedestrian or bicyclist is anywhere in the intersection, right turns on red (stopping or non-stopping) are not allowed. The pedestrian or bicyclist always has the right-of-way, and they must clear the intersection before a right turn on red is allowed. 4. It is possible that a “Yield” or other guidance sign may be placed at this turn. That sign decision is a longer-term review and designation process. 5. If there is an accident at this intersection, the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Department will hand it off to the Colorado State Patrol.
Posted March 12, 2020
Proposed change to Enforcement Policy regarding exterior work to all TrailMark homes and properties
The HOA would like to remind everyone about the importance of submitting applications for all exterior work planned for your home. The Design Review Committee works hard to ensure that the integrity and design of the homes are upheld and that all of our Residents have a clear path to getting their home/ property improvement projects accomplished. Because of this commitment to ensuring every homeowner follows the governing documents, which you agreed to when you purchased your home, the HOA Board is discussing a change to the enforcement policy. The proposed policy will be discussed at the next Board meeting. The policy change would increase the fine for those homeowners who do not submit for DRC approval prior to initiating exterior work on their home and property. This includes painting, fences, doors, windows, decks, driveways, landscape work, etc. The current fine is $50. This does not seem to be a strong enough fine because many homeowners continue to ignore the HOA rules and complete exterior work as they wish, resulting in improvements that do not comply with current policy and standards, and in some cases, requires the improvement be re-done. Therefore, the proposed fine is $250. Regardless of the work being done, if work is completed without a Home Improvement Request and subsequent DRC approval, the new fine could be $250. It is important to get approval, and it is important to recognize the rules of the HOA for the community in which you live!
Posted March 1, 2020
2020 Colorado State Park Pass
Bulk order discount – Want to save 30% on your Annual State Park Pass (regularly $80)? Read full article
Posted March 1, 2020
Changes to the recycling page in the February newsletter
After the February newsletter was published, it was brought to our attention that there was no mention of glass on the recycling list. We contacted Alpine-GFL who sent us the updated flyers pictured here. Two more items to point out that are not on the flyers: PIZZA BOXES are not accepted as recycling. They are wax-lined and considered compost. ALUMINUM FOIL is accepted. Please rinse if necessary.
Posted February 3, 2020; Updated March 1, 2020
Wing and Lot/Perimeter Fence Maintenance
With spring quickly approaching, now is the time to consider fence maintenance to keep your property and the community, as a whole, looking fresh and well-kept. Please, take time to check your fencing and where re-staining, re-painting, repairing, or replacing in necessary – please – take action. Remember that these repairs require DRC review prior to project initiation. In the best interests of TrailMark’s aesthetic beauty, natural, untreated fencing is no longer an acceptable option given its dowdy appearance from irrigation splash and age. The following are approved stains and solid paint options, as they are the most compatible with the TREX privacy fencing along TrailMark Parkway and Independence Street: Sherwin Williams WoodScapes Semi-Transparent Stain – Slight pigmentation for increased protection. SW3504 Woodridge; W3522 Banyan Brown; Custom Match #7170-0115255 (same as HOA perimeter fencing). TREX Fencing: The DRC is developing the TrailMark standard for the use of TREX fencing material for homeowner responsible fences. TREX is an approved material for wing fences and lot/perimeter fences. To blend with existing community TREX fencing and the approved stains and solid paint options (above), SADDLE is the only TREX color allowed. DRC review and approval is required prior to project initiation. The DRC reviews requests the 1st and 3rd week of every month. To ensure your request receives timely review, please submit required forms and all relevant project information by the Friday prior to the DRC review weeks. Forms and other information are posted on the HOA website: https://www.trailmark.org/hoa-documents-amp-forms.html. Submit to designreview@trailmarkhoa.org.
Posted February 28, 2020
Regular garbage pick-up day:
Tuesday, February 18th. No delay due to Presidents Day. If you have trash service issues, please contact Alpine/GFL or the Property Manager to report the issue.
Shea Property Update
Last month (December 2019), Shea Homes invited TrailMark to meet to explore the potential of their pursuing development of their 7+ acre property located at the north side of TrailMark Parkway and Wadsworth Boulevard. With the holidays over and schedules back to “normal” the HOA Board met with them on January 27, 2020 at the Shea offices in Lone Tree. As a refresher, Shea Homes owns the 7+ acre parcel. It is currently zoned Commercial with permitted uses of:
Office uses (general offices public and/or private), financial, educational, laboratory and health care institution. Commercial uses, including retail sales and/or services, recreation or entertainment facilities, restaurants, and day care. Public or private clubs or facilities. Lodging, churches, and other uses determined by the City of Littleton Development Review Committee to be similar in character and impact to those listed above. During the meeting with Shea, Shea Homes Vice President explained that they have listed the property for about four (4) years and have received some commercial inquiries. However, at this time, Shea is exploring development of the property themselves. Their initial concept is to build approximately 31-32 ranch-style homes, geared towards empty-nesters or those looking to downsize, a market that is currently very popular in the Denver-metro area. The homes would be built in 4-packs (4 homes each having a double garage and sharing a cul-de-sac). The proposed sub-community is targeted to be part of the existing TrailMark HOA. At this time, the design of the 7+ acre sub-community is being explored including house designs, grounds around the homes, entrance/exit, traffic and environmental concerns, and how this new sub-community would best blend into the greater TrailMark community. A few notes of which to be aware: The documents posted on the City of Littleton website and posted to Facebook are not a formal request but a pre-inquiry to the Department of Community Development, to “test the waters” of this concept, within the greater City of Littleton. The next step in the City’s process is to schedule a pre-application meeting (again not a formal request) to provide general information to an applicant about the development review process, the review timeframes, and development fees. The applicant then evaluates the process and code requirements to determine whether they will move forward with a formal request to the City. You can find more information on the planning process by going to the City of Littleton website: https:// www.littletongov.org/building-development/planning-services. Regarding timelines from planning to building if the concept is eventually formally submitted. The Vice President stated that with a re-zoning requirement, research with other agencies, studies to be conducted, etc., it will take a minimum of 12-18 months just to get the paperwork completed. Shea plans to initiate a public outreach program with TrailMark homeowners in order to apprise all of the project and allow homeowners the opportunity to provide comments. We expect there to be multiple community meetings as the project moves forward. Throughout the initial planning, Shea has committed to keeping TrailMark apprised of their progress and will be available for community meetings, as appropriate. By the same token, the Board has committed to advising Shea of homeowner comment in an effort to keep this process as painless as possible. From the Board: Given the abundant commercial uses available via the current zoning and the interest expressed by various entities, it is a foregone conclusion that this property will be developed. It is in TrailMark’s best interests to stay connected with Shea, providing them with community concerns and issues, several of which were passed on to them during the initial meeting. Given Shea’s commitment to TrailMark, TrailMark is in a position to influence some of what may ultimately be put on this parcel. Shea wants to work with us. We have been clear that the parcel and what is put on it is a priority for us so that we may protect our environment, investment, and TrailMark way of life. We are committed to keeping our homeowners apprised of information we receive. Stay tuned as we learn more.
Posted February 1, 2020
TrailMark Metro District Update (TMMD)
We officially lowered the Metro District mil levy to 3 mils, since the bonds have been paid off and the privacy fence project is complete. If you have lived in TrailMark for more than ten years you may remember that the mil levy at one time was 66 mils, so you are saving money on your property taxes. It is Election Time for the TrailMark District Board. We need two good people interested in serving three year terms. If you want to run for the board, you must go to the TrailMark website, click on the TMMD tab and go to the elections section. There you will find an official Self-Nomination Form that must be received by CRS by February 28, 2020. (More information can be found in the next article, below.) Pond G is not really supposed to be a pond, it is a runoff detention area. Therefore it may or may not have much water being detained at any given time, and this is by design.
Posted February 1, 2020
From the Design Review Committee (DRC)
HOMEOWNERS: Spring is around the corner and now is the perfect time to think about your external home improvement projects – painting, roofing, landscaping, windows, decks/patios, etc. As a gentle reminder to all homeowners, per Article 4 TrailMark’s Declaration of Covenants, Conditions and Restrictions, approval is required for all exterior property improvements. Again, ALL project forms and documents must be submitted to the DRC for review and approval prior to project initiation. The DRC reviews project proposals the 1st and 3rd week of every month. We highly recommend that you submit your Homeowner Request Forms and all relevant documents to the management company the Friday prior to the 1st and 3rd week reviews, to ensure that your project gets the required review and approval to allow you to stay on your project schedule. Find the required forms, guidance, and contact information on the HOA website: https://www.trailmark.org/hoa-documents-amp-forms.html. TrailMark’s Philosophy: In accordance with our CCRs and TrailMark Design Guidelines, TrailMark’s planning and design philosophy is to retain a consistent, quality design expression of maintaining the original high prairie and foothills environment. By adhering to this philosophy, your request will receive a more expeditious review and approval. Home Painting: For those planning on exterior home painting, TrailMark has paint sample books with forty-nine (49) approved paint schemes. Contact the management company at designreview@trailmarkhoa.org to review our paint scheme. In accordance with TrailMark’s design philosophy, TrailMark’s paint schemes are centered on brown, earth tones. As a point of clarification, you must submit the Homeowner Request Form and identify the paint scheme you have selected prior to initiation of your paint project. Door Standard: The DRC has worked diligently to respond to requests that clearer standards be developed to help clarify a vague portion of the Design Guidelines. Specifically, the standard for doors. Please review the updated and clarified guidelines and remember that any exterior change to your home requires DRC approval. Worth Repeating: The DRC reviews homeowner requests the 1st & 3rd week of each month. Please ensure that your request is received by the management company the Friday prior to the DRC review week, so your complete request can be reviewed without delay. If you have any questions, please send them to designreview@trailmarkhoa.org.
Posted February 1, 2020
Common Area Committee Update (CAC)
The Christmas Garland and wreaths at the entrance to TrailMark were taken down by our committee on Saturday afternoon, January 18. The commercial lighting company will be taking down the lights on the trees very soon. We have not commenced with any median work, as we wait for Spring weather.
Just a reminder that Black Bear Trail in the Jeffco Hildebrand Ranch will be closed as of February 1.
Posted February 1, 2020
Jefferson County Government properties going Tobacco-Free in 2020
Effective February 3, smoking and the use of tobacco products will not be permitted on Jefferson County Government properties except in select, marked Designated Tobacco Use Areas (DTUA) and private vehicles. Jefferson County is committed to creating a healthy, safe and clean environment
for employees, visitors and contractors on our properties. As tobacco remains the leading cause of preventable death in Colorado, a major part of this commitment includes reducing exposure to secondhand smoke and vapor and reducing tobacco litter on Jefferson County properties.
Posted February 1, 2020
Renew Vehicle Tags without a hassle at King Soopers
Renewing vehicle tags has never been easier for Jeffco residents. In addition to being able to renew online, there are now five self-service kiosks located at King Soopers stores throughout the county. To use a kiosk, drivers need their renewal notice (or the information on it) and a form of payment. The machines immediately print a copy of the updated registration along with tag stickers. The kiosks are open when King Soopers is – 5 a.m. to midnight, seven days a week. For more information and to find the nearest kiosk to you, visit the Jeffco Clerk and Recorder Motor Vehicle website. TrailMark’s closest King Soopers to offer this service is located at 11747 W. Ken Caryl Avenue in Littleton.
Posted February 1, 2020
Business sponsors needed for 2020 Social Events
(click here for more information) Posted February 1, 2020
Friendly Reminder about Holiday Decorations
All exterior holiday decorations and lights utilized as season displays must be removed and properly stored in a timely manner following the conclusion of the holiday, but, in no case later than thirty (30) days following the expiration of the holiday.
[Covenants article 3.8]
Posted October 1, 2019; Updated February 1, 2020
Mark your calendars for a fun-filled year! Check social media and future newsletters for more details on each event.
January 29th, 6-8 pm – Skate City Night, $3/person CASH ONLY
April 4th, 9 am – Easter Egg Hunt, Hogback Hill Park
May 7th & 21st, June 4th & 18th, July 9th & 23rd, August 6th & 20th, 5:30-8:00 pm – Food Truck Thursdays, Playground
TBD One Sunday in June, July, August – Summer Concert Series, Hogback Hill Park
June 5th-6th, 7:30 am-2 pm – Neighborhood Garage Sale
*June 13th, 6-8 pm – Family Photo Day #1 (more info and sign-ups to come)
July 4th, 9 am – 4th of July Bike Parade, TrailMark Playground
*July 17th, 6-8 pm – Family Photo Day #2 (more info and sign-ups to come)
July 26th, 6:30-8:30 pm – Pirate’s Cove Night, $5/person CASH ONLY
*August 8th, time TBD – Movie Night sponsored by The Devin Team, Hogback Hill Park
*Aug 16th, 6-8 pm – Family Photo Day #3 (more info and sign-ups to come)
September 22nd, 5-8 pm – Chatfield Botanic Gardens Corn Maze, $5/person CASH ONLY
October 18th, 10 am – TM5K and Family Fun Run, Hogback Hill Park (more info and signups to come)
Dec 8th, 5-8 pm – Chatfield Botanic Gardens Night at the Lights, $10/person CASH ONLY
*Dates Subject to Change
TMMD Board of Directors Election
Two Director positions will be open for election on May 5, 2020. In 2019, the General Assembly passed a law changing Special District Elections to May of odd years versus May of even years. To accommodate this change, the terms of office for the 2020 and 2022 elections will be 3-year terms. In 2023, the terms will return to 4-Year terms. Directors are limited to 2 terms (for this cycle, the 3-year term counts towards term limits so a person will be able to serve a total of 7 years). Directors receive $100 per meeting for which they are in attendance with a not-to-exceed amount of $2,400 per year. Directors are covered by POL insurance and governmental immunity per statute. To qualify as a director, a person must be an “eligible elector” defined as a registered voter of Colorado and either: a resident of the district for not less than 30 days, or, the owner (or spouse of the owner) of taxable real or personal property situated in the District, or, a person obligated to pay taxes under a contract to purchase taxable property. In order to run for a Director position, a self-nomination form must be filed with the Designated Election Official, Sue Blair, no earlier than January 1, 2020, nor later than the close of business on Friday, February 28, 2020. Self-Nomination and Acceptance forms are available at the District’s website (https://www.trailmark.org/election-information-tmmd.html) or from the District’s Manager and at the Designated Election Official’s offices located at the addresses below. Community Resource Services, 7995 E. Prentice Ave. Ste. 103, Greenwood Village, CO 80111, 303-381-4960. For more information, please contact the TMMD District Manager: Cathy Noon @ (303) 381-4960 or cnoon@crsofcolorado.com. The election will be held by mail ballot. If the only matter before the electors is the election of Directors of the District and if, at the close of business on March 3, 2020, there are not more candidates than offices to be filled at the Election, including candidates timely filing affidavits of intent no later than February 28, 2020, the Designated Election Official shall cancel the Election and declare the candidates elected.
Posted January 24, 2020
Crime in TrailMark
Multiple cars in TrailMark were broken into on January 22. Please keep your car doors locked, and call the Littleton police if you know or see anything – (303) 794-1551.
‘Ring’ footage
Posted January 23, 2020
Alpine/GFL Waste Automated Sustainability Report for TrailMark
December 2019 (click here)
Posted January 20, 2020
Stop is required to turn right onto TrailMark Parkway at a Red Light
Concern has been voiced whether a southbound vehicle must stop, at a red light, when turning right off of Wadsworth Boulevard, onto TrailMark Parkway, heading west. Per CDOT: YES, if the light is red, regardless of which direction you wish to go, a stop is required prior to turning right onto TrailMark Parkway or moving forward. Specifically, per CRS 42-4-604(1)(c)(I)(A): (c) Steady red indication [red light]: (I) Vehicular traffic facing a steady circular red signal alone shall stop at a [1.] clearly marked stop line but, if none, [2.] before entering the crosswalk on the near side of the intersection or, if none, [3.] then before entering the intersection, and shall remain standing until an indication to proceed is shown; except that: A. Such vehicular traffic, after coming to a stop and yielding the right-of-way to pedestrians lawfully within an adjacent crosswalk and to other traffic lawfully using the intersection, may make a right turn, unless state or local road authorities within their respective jurisdictions have by ordinance or resolution prohibited any such right turn and have erected an official sign at each intersection where such right turn is prohibited. Bottom Line: If the light is RED at the intersection of Wadsworth Boulevard and TrailMark Parkway, regardless of what direction you wish to go, you must come to a stop before moving on. If you have further questions please contact CDOT at 303-759-2368.
Posted January 16, 2020
Business sponsors needed for 2020 events
The Social Committee is looking for business sponsors for some of our 2020 events! In order to keep from raising dues or event entrance fees we are looking for sponsors for various portions of events. This could include paying for the bounce houses or face painters at the summer concerts, 4th of July or TM5K; paying for coffee and donuts at the Easter Egg Hunt or 4th of July; or even sponsoring the tractor and barrel rides at the Corn Maze or carriage rides at Night at the Lights. If you or your business is interested in helping to sponsor one or more of these events please email
social@trailmarkhoa.org. We love putting on these amazing events for our neighbors, but with rising event costs we need your help! Thanks so much!
Posted January 1, 2020
Santa makes surprise visit to TrailMark
Santa and his helpers showed up on the corner of TrailMark Parkway and Everett the weekend before Christmas to get the last wishes of believers. He was full of Ho Ho Ho’s and was very engaging with the kiddos and pets as Christmas music played in the background. Santa was sitting in his Santa chair waving at people as they drove by. Some stopped to see him and kids sat on his lap. Others jumped out of their cars and took a quick picture with him. Families enjoyed his visit, saying it was very fun. Santa said it was good for his heart to spend some special time with the residents of TrailMark and to see the love and holiday spirit in their hearts. He said he is going to try and make this an annual event, as long as he and the elves can keep up.Posted January 1, 2020
From our property management company (CRS)
Please note: Invoices were sent for the quarterly HOA dues. Dues remain the same for 2020 at $110 per quarter. If you have any questions, please contact the management company
As has been noted in previous newsletters, if you are doing any exterior work to your home, it is important to obtain DRC approval first. No work shall be performed prior to approval.
Posted January 1, 2020
Jefferson County Notifications and Alerts
As we are aware, development in the local TrailMark area is a constant occurrence and the HOA receives many homeowner inquiries about various projects whether building and/or road construction/maintenance projects. Homeowners who want to stay informed about these projects can access project information via the Jefferson County notification system which will email residents about upcoming projects. To register for this and/or a variety of other alerts and notifications, use the link: https://www.jeffco.us/list.aspx. You will provide your email and/or phone number to register for the service, and then may select any number of notifications/alerts to your email, or texts to your cell phone.
Posted January 1, 2020
Improvements Made to Jeffco Treasurer’s Property Search Website
Jefferson County made some improvements to its Treasurer Property Tax Search, which allow residents to view their tax statement and pay their property taxes. These improvements made the application easier and accessible on any device. The improvements include additional property search capabilities, enhanced historical data and tax bill availability, an estimate of property taxes for the next year and the ability to process multiple property tax payments within the same transaction. The new application is also mobile friendly and features enhanced security and user help.
Posted January 1, 2020
Jeffco Clerk & Recorder: Renew Vehicle Tags Without a Hassle
No one enjoys waiting in line at the DMV. Fortunately, it’s easier than ever for Jeffco residents who need to renew their vehicle registration to skip the trip altogether. In addition to being able to renew online, there are now five self -service kiosks located at King Soopers stores throughout the county. To use one of the kiosks, drivers need two things: their renewal notice (or the information on it) and a form of payment. The machines immediately print a copy of the updated registration along with tag stickers. The kiosks are open when King Soopers is – 5 a.m. to midnight, seven days a week. For more information and to find the nearest kiosk to you, visit the Jeffco Clerk and Recorder Motor Vehicle website.
Posted January 1, 2020
Save These Important Dates for 2020 Elections
Jeffco voters, mark your calendars! On March 3, Colorado is one of 14 “Super Tuesday” states that vote in the presidential primary. The next big date is June 30, when voters cast ballots in state primary elections. Finally, the general election falls on Nov. 3. As always, Jeffco voters will receive their ballots via mail three weeks before each election day. For more information, or to check or update your voter registration, visit the Jeffco Clerk and Recorder Elections website.
Posted January 1, 2020
TrailMark Skate Night
Wednesday, January 29th, 6-8 pm. Skate City, 5801 S Lowell Way, Littleton. $3 Person/CASH ONLY
HOA Board Meeting
Thursday, January 9th, 7:00 pm, Fire Station 19, All are welcome. Agenda
HOA Assessments due January 1st
As a reminder, HOA Assessments are due January 1st. If you have any questions, please contact Angie Kelly at Community Resource Services. TrailMark HOA Board