Because the articles on this page are dated, the links may not be working. We apologize for any inconvenience.
Reminder of HOA Dues, and Happy New Year
December 31, 2023 – Dear TrailMark Residents, As a friendly reminder, the HOA Board would like to remind you that your quarterly dues beginning January 1st, 2024, have INCREASED to $165 per quarter. Please adjust your banking to reflect this change. Also, all HOA assessments are due on the 1st of January, April, July, and October. Assessments not received by the 30th of those months will accrue late fees. We hope you enjoy a healthy and safe New Year in 2024. 🥳 Happy New Year, Ken Colaizzi, President, TrailMark HOA, Littleton, CO 80127, https://www.trailmark.org
Garbage & Recycling delayed to December 27th
Garbage and recycling pick-up is delayed from Tuesday, December 26th to Wednesday, December 27th due to the Christmas holiday.
Merry Christmas from the HOA
December 25, 2023 – Dear TrailMark Residents, On behalf of our entire HOA Board, we’d like to wish each of you a Merry Christmas. TrailMark is wrapped up in festive cheer. From the beautifully decorated entrance, to all the homes with gorgeous sparkling lights, we hope you all enjoy this wonderful day with your family. Hopefully, Santa brought some good presents for all the little ones. Again, we wish each and every one of you a very Merry Christmas. 🎅🏻🎄 Ho Ho Ho,
Ken Colaizzi, President, TrailMark HOA, Littleton, CO 80127, president@trailmark.org, https://www.trailmark.org
TrailMark Parade of Lights
And the winners are… 1st – Schmid at 9582 W Edenburg Place, 2nd – Herbel Linser at 9510 W Belfast Place, 3rd – (TIE) Somers at 9786 S Holland Street, 3rd – (TIE) Colaizzi at 9925 W Baden Drive. Nearly 50 residents voted. Thank you, all! There were some amazing homes this year!
Posted December 22, 2023
Christmas Lights Parade on a Gorgeous Night
December 16, 2023 – Dear TrailMark Residents, The TrailMark HOA Board would like to recognize and extend a huge thank you to resident Lonnie Somers for spearheading our annual Christmas Lights Parade tonight throughout TrailMark. Approximately 50 cars followed “Elf Lonnie” through the neighborhood to see all of the beautiful Christmas lights. Many of the residents driving in the parade also decorated their cars to celebrate the holiday. Thank you all for participating this evening and making this a fantastic event for all of the kids. We all hope you enjoy the days leading up to Christmas! On behalf of our entire Board, Merry Christmas! Ho Ho Ho, Ken Colaizzi, President, TrailMark HOA, Littleton, CO 80127, president@trailmark.org, https://www.trailmark.org
Don’t forget! Vote for your favorite TrailMark Parade of Lights homes!
Here is the parade map and route from December 16th. Check out the amazing homes decorated in TrailMark at your leisure (hot cocoa and candy canes make it even better). Route: https://www.google.com/maps/d/edit… Voting is open until December 20th, and you can vote for your favorite submitted homes (write-in votes also available). Vote here: https://forms.gle/LFASGNQEN1nWTxn49. Please participate in this fun event! Many of our residents really decorate their homes well for Christmas and there are even some interactive displays.
Santa is in the Neighborhood!
Stop by Santa’s throne to say hi and let him know what you want for Christmas! TrailMark Parkway and Everett, Saturday, December 16th & Sunday, December 17th, 4:30 to 8:00 pm.
TrailMark Parade of Lights map
Here is the parade map and route from the December 16th Holiday Lights Parade and Contest. Check out the amazing homes decorated in TrailMark at your leisure (hot cocoa and candy canes make it even better).
TrailMark Holiday Lights Parade and Contest
Saturday, December 16th, (deadline to enter your home is December 14th), 6:30 pm, Throughout TrailMark. 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, between 6:00 and 6:25 pm. 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. Please drive with your flashers on for safety, and so we all know who is part of the parade. The course is about 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)! If you don’t want to drive the route, you can watch the cars go by along the route. THERE IS A CONTEST! To register your holiday-lit home, please follow these instructions, from the leader of the parade, Lonnie Somers: Fill out this form by December 14th to be placed on the map for stopping by, and to be in the contest. Please submit a picture of your house, which we will use for the community to vote on for prizes. You may upload the picture via the form linked above. Lonnie will add the entries onto a google map which will be posted at a later date. Please participate in this fun event! Many of our residents really decorate their homes well for Christmas and there’s even some interactive displays. This is the one social event that you don’t want to miss! REGISTER YOUR HOME HERE
TRAILMARK HOLIDAY LIGHTS PARADE & CONTEST
Saturday, December 16th, 6:30 pm, Throughout TrailMark. 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, between 6:00 and 6:25 pm. 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. Please drive with your flashers on for safety so we all know who is part of the parade. The course is about 6 miles and will likely take about an hour. This will be a lot of fun!!! Don’t forget to deck your cars with boughs of holly (& lights)! If you don’t want to drive the route, you can watch the cars go by along the route. Here is the parade map and route. If you can’t make it, feel free to check out the amazing homes decorated in TrailMark at your leisure (hot cocoa and candy canes make it even better). Route: https://www.google.com/maps/d/edit… THERE IS A CONTEST! Voting is open until December 20th, and you can vote for your favorite submitted homes here (write-in votes also available). Vote here: https://forms.gle/LFASGNQEN1nWTxn49. Please participate in this fun event! Many of our residents really decorate their homes well for Christmas and there are even some interactive displays. This is the one social event that you don’t want to miss!
Santa is in the Neighborhood!
Stop by Santa’s throne to say hi and let him know what you want for Christmas! TrailMark Parkway and Everett. Today and tomorrow, December 16th & 17th, from 4:30 to 8:00 pm.
TrailMark Holiday Lights Parade & Contest is December 16th
The last day to be placed on the map, and to be entered in the contest is Thursday, December 14th. REGISTER YOUR HOME HERE
HOA shares sad news about Cathy Noon
December 14, 2023 – Dear TrailMark Residents, Our HOA Board found out about the recent passing of Cathy Noon. https://www.centennialco.gov/News-Media-Center/Remembering-CathyNoon#:~:text=Cathy%20Noon%2C%20a%20visionary%20leader,five%20and%20a%20half%20years. Cathy was iconic in this south end of the Denver Metro area. Everyone knew Cathy and everyone loved her expertise and her knowledge of government. Cathy was not only the second mayor of Centennial, Colorado, but she was also a huge asset to TrailMark. Cathy Noon was the long time manager for the TrailMark Metro District (TMMD) and helped with many projects here in TrailMark. Personally, Cathy was the most knowledgeable, sincere, and wisest human being I’ve ever met in HOA management. The saying always goes, “There will never be another Cathy Noon.” She was that good! Sadly, our community lost an angel to pancreatic cancer. Cathy was a fighter and fought this for five years. On behalf of our entire community, our thoughts and prayers are with all of Cathy’s friends and family as she touched all of our lives in the most positive way. Fondly, Ken Colaizzi, President, TrailMark HOA, Littleton, CO 80127, president@trailmark.org, https://www.trailmark.org
CAC Projects for 2024
Your board has approved the CAC budget for 2024 so we’d like to share the upcoming projects with you. Refresh fence line between Gibraltar and TrailMark Parkway (on the east side of Independence). This will include, new mulching, use of river rock, removing some stumps and replacing some trees. Refresh the median east of Danzig and TrailMark Parkway with new mulch and new plants. Refresh the fence line between Dover-Everett. This will include mulch refresh, removal of dead bushes, addition of some cobble/river rock. Update the “long bed” (east/south of Carr) along TrailMark Parkway with new weed barrier, mulch, cobble and river rock. ALSO, the dead trees near the shed will be removed soon and replaced with new trees and shrubs next year AFTER SSPR updates their irrigation system in that area. Thanks to our CAC team! 🙂 Mary Kreeger
Posted December 10, 2023
Help needed: TrailMark Night at the Lights
UPDATE: We have enough volunteers. Thank you to everyone for your help! HELP! Volunteers are needed to take tickets or help with drinks and cookies with Santa at the TrailMark Night at the Lights on Monday, December 4th from 5:00-8:00 pm. Volunteers get in free. We need ticket takers to cover the ticket booth from 5:00-7:15 pm. We need cookie and drink helpers in the barn from 5:00-8:00 pm. The more volunteers the better. It would be great to have enough volunteers to make each task be only 30 minutes. Thank you in advance for helping us! Feel free to text or call Deahna with questions or to volunteer: 720-201-0311. Photo from TrailMark Night at the Lights 2022
TrailMark Night at the Lights
Monday, December 4th, 5:00-8:00 pm, Denver Botanic Gardens Chatfield Farms. Hay Rides and Pictures with Santa! Cookies, Cider and Hot Chocolate! $10/person, CASH ONLY. Under 3 is free. Pay at the door. Last entry is 7:15 pm. UPDATE: We have enough volunteers. Thank you to everyone for your help!
TrailMark Monthly Newsletter
The December issue of the TRAILMARK NEWSLETTER has been emailed out to the TrailMark community. It can be viewed online at: https://www.trailmark.org/newsletter.html. If you didn’t receive your email copy, please sign up here to join the email list: https://www.trailmark.org/email-sign-up.html. If you are signed up and still did not receive your issue, please email the communications committee at: communications@trailmark.org.
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 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 your dog splashes into the water. 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 nor 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 the firefighters arrive, they 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 November 27, 2023: Edited and reposted from December 2020)
Happy Thanksgiving from the HOA
November 23, 2023 – Dear TrailMark Residents, Our entire HOA Board would like to wish each of you and your family a very Happy Thanksgiving! Enjoy the time with your family, eat some delicious food, cheer for my Seahawks tonight, and enjoy the beauty of our precious neighborhood. Nothing like taking a walk with your family on our beautiful trails after eating turkey and mashed potatoes. We are all very grateful and thankful to live in TrailMark, which is the best neighborhood in Littleton. Happy Thanksgiving, Ken Colaizzi, President, TrailMark HOA, Littleton, CO 80127, president@trailmark.org, https://www.trailmark.org
Winter Watch-Outs
from South Metro Fire Rescue. With the changing of the seasons inevitably comes a changing of risks South Metro Fire Rescue wants our community to be prepared for. The following is information on our department’s top concerns this winter, as well as tips to help empower our community members to keep themselves safe. South Metro Fire Rescue wants our residents to enjoy this holiday season. Click here to learn more about… COOKING FIRES are the #1 cause of house fires in the United States. LITHIUM-ION BATTERY FIRES are increasing nationwide. HEATING OUR HOMES, Did you know that HALF of home fires in December are caused by CANDLES? ELECTRICAL FIRES, IF A FIRE OCCURS, FALLS ON ICE. Visit the NFPA’s Home Fire Safety Page for Additional Ways to Stay Safe. Thank you so much for taking the time to focus on your safety this holiday season. South Metro Fire Rescue is ready to respond to any emergency, however, we would prefer to meet you under less dire circumstances. Keep warm, stay safe, and let’s end 2023 the best way we can: focusing on taking care of those around us and staying happy and healthy! Happy Holidays from your SMFR Community Risk Reduction Team. Please direct questions to: ReducingRisk@SouthMetro.org
Posted November 22, 2023
THANK YOU to CAC members
A HUGE THANK YOU to Laurel and Breton Knaub, Gary and Sharon Sheppard, Lisa Hern, Sandy Farish and Pene Yerigan for donating their time and effort to decorate the entrance of TrailMark for the holidays!!!!!!!
Posted November 21, 2023
WELCOME, NEW RESIDENTS!
There is a web page that welcomes TrailMark’s incoming residents and offers essential information for a smooth transition. View it here – https://www.trailmark.org/new-residents.html
Posted November 18, 2023
HOA Meetings moving to Falcon Bluffs Middle School
November 17, 2023 – Dear TrailMark Residents, The TrailMark HOA Board of Directors explained to the community, during our Annual Meeting on November 14th, that we had an excellent opportunity to change our venue for our future HOA meetings. Rather than having our meetings at Fire Station #19 in the front of TrailMark, the Board has voted to move our future HOA meetings beginning in January 2024 to the library at Falcon Bluffs Middle School. As many of you know, Falcon Bluffs Middle School is our neighborhood middle school. Several of our residents send their kids to this excellent Middle School. Principal Tom Burns at Falcon Bluffs has helped our community in having our future HOA meetings in the library starting January 9th, 2024 at 6:00 p.m. Falcon Bluffs Middle School is located at: 8449 S Garrison Street, Littleton, CO 80128. Falcon Bluffs is a gorgeous school and will be better suited for our meetings. You will actually be able to park in a parking spot! If any of you have mobility issues, Falcon Bluffs even has an elevator to help our residents get to the second floor for our HOA meetings in the library. We will no longer have the acoustic problems of echoing and interruptions from necessary emergency calls. Our Board would sincerely like to thank South Metro Fire Station #19 for all of their many years of accommodations and assistance to help us conduct our bi-monthly meetings. When you are out walking our trails, please extend a huge thank you to our neighborhood firefighters for their overwhelming sincerity in assisting and dedicating their lives to our residents. Station 19 is great and we are lucky to have them here in our neighborhood. Please plan on coming to our January 9th, 2024 HOA Meeting at 6:00 p.m. at Falcon Bluffs Middle School. We know you will enjoy our new meeting venue. Cordially, Ken Colaizzi, President, TrailMark HOA, Littleton, CO 80127, president@trailmark.org, https://www.trailmark.org
Quarterly Dues increasing to $165
November 15, 2023 – Dear TrailMark Residents, During the HOA Annual Meeting on November 14th, 2023, the HOA Board voted unanimously to increase our quarterly HOA dues effective January 1st, 2024. With the rise in the cost of all of our expenses, the TrailMark HOA Board had no other choice but to raise our assessments to $165 per quarter. Please adjust your budgets, and your bill pays, accordingly to reflect this upcoming change. As of January 1st, 2024, the TrailMark HOA dues will no longer be $135 per quarter. Westwind Management Group will be sending new invoices to all members for the quarter one assessments, and the amount due for the first quarter in 2024 will be $165. Lastly, the TrailMark HOA Board of Directors would like to remind all residents that when you receive your January 1st, 2024, assessment invoice the due date clearly states that the $165 is due on January 1st, 2024. Our guidelines give all of our residents a 30-day grace period to pay their assessments. Therefore, your first assessment of $165 is due no later than January 30th, 2024. If your payment is received after January 30th, 2024, then late fees can accrue due to House Bill 1137. Our Board would like to avoid seeing any of our residents have to pay late fees. Please help our Board and inform your fellow neighbors that the TrailMark HOA quarterly dues are increasing to $165 per quarter, effective January 1st, 2024. We appreciate your cooperation and understanding. Many thanks, Ken Colaizzi, President, TrailMark HOA, Littleton, CO 80127, president@trailmark.org, https://www.trailmark.org
Jeffco Open Space is underway in changing the access points to Hildebrand Ranch trails
November 15, 2023 – Dear TrailMark Residents, Many residents have seen several Jefferson County marked trucks working on South Johnson Street this week. Jeffco Open Space has begun to shut down the man-made access point next to 9975 W Baden Drive. In respect of the homeowner who lives at 9975 W Baden Drive, and in respect to Jeffco Open Space, please refrain from using that previous man-made access point once Jefferson County officially closes that northwest access point to the Hildebrand Ranch Trail. In other words, please do not climb over the now closed access point. The TrailMark HOA Board would like to advise our residents who wish to use the Hildebrand Ranch Trail to please use the new access point which is west of the brick-paved speed bump on South Johnson Street. Jeffco Open Space is building a nice new gate and will be posting signs accordingly. Again, Jeffco Open Space has politely asked our residents to please be respectful of their signs and access the Hildebrand Ranch Trail through the newest access points. Thank you in advance for your cooperation. Sincerely, Ken Colaizzi, President, TrailMark HOA, Littleton, CO 80127, president@trailmark.org, https://www.trailmark.org
Annual TMMD/HOA Meeting Tuesday, November 14th
The 2023 Annual TMMD/HOA Meeting is Tuesday, November 14th. The TrailMark Metro District Board will meet at 5:30 pm, followed by the HOA Board at 6:00 p.m. The combined meeting will be held in person at Fire Station 19 in TrailMark. The HOA will ratify the 2024 HOA budget as well as present the Board of Director candidates for the HOA. There are two (2) positions open on the Board this year. If you are interested in running for the Board, please contact the property manager at Westwind Management Group – https://www.trailmark.org/management-company.html. The HOA board election will take place at this meeting. According to our CCR’s, your current HOA dues must be paid in full in order for your vote to count. Please make sure your HOA dues are up to date. A mailing with the meeting notice, 2024 budget, a self-nomination form, the proxy and the ballot was sent out in mid-October. If you did not receive yours, please contact Westwind. Proxies and ballots may be mailed back to Westwind in the envelope that was provided, or you can email it, or fax it to 303-369-0007. Update: We have received enough proxies! Thank you, everyone! The HOA needs volunteers to process and count ballots. In order to volunteer, you may not be related or affiliated with any of the HOA candidates running for a Board position. If you wish to help with this process, please contact the property manager at Westwind Management Group – https://www.trailmark.org/management-company.html. All are welcome to attend the annual meeting.
HOA Annual Meeting – Tuesday, November 14th
Save the date! November 14th, 2023. TrailMark Residents, the annual TrailMark HOA Meeting and Budget Ratification Meeting will be held to discuss the budgets for 2024 on Tuesday, November 14th. The meeting begins at 6:00 pm at Fire Station 19 in TrailMark. If you want to know where your fees are being spent and managed, please attend the meeting. Call for Proxies (Update: We have received enough proxies! Thank you, everyone!) 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 and ballot which may be turned in at the annual meeting. If you cannot attend the meeting, please return your proxy and ballot by mail. 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. 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 at Westwind Management Group (https://www.trailmark.org/management-company.html) 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 on the website, and will be included with the items mailed to you and posted on the TrailMark website prior to the meeting. 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). 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 evening of the 2nd Tuesday. 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 1-10 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.
TRAILMARK METROPOLITAN DISTRICT NOTICE OF SPECIAL MEETING
TUESDAY, November 14, 2023 NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Board of Directors (the “Board”) of the TrailMark Metropolitan District (the “District”), Town of Littleton, County of Jefferson, State of Colorado, will hold a special meeting at 5:30 P.M. on November 14, 2023 at 8490 W TrailMark Pkwy Littleton, CO 80127, also know as Littleton Fire Station 19. For the purpose of conducting such business as may come before the Board. Agenda. The meeting is open to the public. BY ORDER OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS TRAILMARK METROPOLITAN DISTRICT. By: /s/ COMMUNITY RESOURCE SERVICES OF COLORADO
Candidates: 2024 TrailMark HOA Board of Directors
(in alphabetical order) · KEN COLAIZZI – Tell us about yourself: “I have been a board member since 2019. My family and I own and operate a 49-year-old business in North Denver named Secure-All. When I am not working I enjoy throwing the football with my son Domenic, eating spaghetti with my daughter Sabrina, and doing yard work with my wife Brooke. I am a die-hard SEAHAWKS fan!!” Why do you want to be on the Board of Directors? “I have thoroughly enjoyed working with this Board. We have an extraordinary relationship amongst our HOA Board. We truly treasure and value helping our residents, as well as keeping TrailMark the beauty that it is. Our Board has been through some rough pot holes in the past few years. We are now cruising down the highway with a very competent management company – who also helped influence my decision to seek re-election, as Westwind has truly helped our Board and our residents. Thank you Julie! We truly have a solid foundation with an excellent Board, a terrific and competent management company, a fantastic HOA attorney, a super landscaping and snow removing company, and great rapport with South Suburban, the City of Littleton, Jefferson County, the Botanic Gardens, and the TMMD. This Board has fostered and nurtured each of those relationships. This Board is really clicking right now, and the Board staying together to keep TrailMark the best neighborhood in Littleton, along with helping to keep your home values appreciating, is also a priority to each of us. Our Board is truly committed to serving our residents and following our guidelines. Our Committees are thriving and improving TrailMark. The Board is very thankful for all of our volunteers in each committee – you make our jobs easier. A big shout out to our Committee Chairs, thank you Mary from the CAC. Thank you Spider Woman from Communications. Thank you Sally and JT from the DRC. Thank you Lori from the Social Committee. I look forward to a great election in November. I am humbled and honored to currently serve as your HOA President. Hopefully, we can keep our Board mostly the way you see it today. Now that campaign season has officially begun, I would appreciate your support and your vote this Fall to stay on this wonderful HOA Board of Directors.” · ARWEN VAUGHAN – Tell us about yourself: “Hi, my name is Arwen Vaughan. Together with my wife Heather, we’re bringing up two kids here in TrailMark – a 16 year-old Junior at Chatfield High and a 12 year-old 7th grader at Falcon Bluffs. We moved to Colorado 17 years ago, to be closer to the mountains and enjoy the great outdoors. I earned my BS in Biology (Evolution, Ecology & Conservation) from the University of Texas at Austin and my Masters in Geographic Information Systems (GIS) from Texas State University. After a brief stint as an Entomologist for the City of Austin, the bulk of my career has been in high tech, first as a software developer and consultant, and eventually as Director of Technology. In addition, I have owned and managed several rental properties over the past twenty years, both long-term unfurnished units as well as fully furnished short-term rentals. As far as interests and hobbies go, Heather teases me that I never sit still. Renewable energy has been a passion of mine. We have an off-grid cabin out near Buena Vista, which I’ve powered with solar and wind. I love the outdoors – camping, hiking, mountain biking – and back in 2004 I took off six months to hike the Appalachian Trail with Heather. I’m also a handyman, tinkerer and general fix-it guy.” Why do you want to be on the Board of Directors? “We’re coming up on two years since we purchased our home in TrailMark, and Heather and I are amazed at how much life has changed for us in that time. TrailMark seems to us a rare gem. It feels like a village where community bonds are strong. The nature that surrounds us and the wildlife that inhabit the area are a constant source of wonder and joy. The kids have made friends and have thrived in excellent schools. We’ve felt so welcomed into the community and have made good friends ourselves. I’d like to serve on the board in order to do our part to help keep TrailMark the amazing community it already is. My varied background, from technology skills to property management to professional leadership, provides what I hope is a wide array of abilities that will allow me to serve our community well. I believe in listening to differing perspectives on issues, engaging in civil discourse, and rolling up my sleeves to get a job done. Setting goals, following through, and holding myself accountable have always served me well. We are grateful to have found our “forever home” here in TrailMark and getting to know more of our fellow residents.” If you are interested in running for the HOA Board, you may write in your own name on the yellow ballot that was mailed to you in the HOA Annual Meeting Packet, or announce your candidacy at the Annual HOA Meeting on November 14th, at 6:00 pm, at Fire Station #19 in TrailMark. Visit the HOA BOARD ELECTION page.
TrailMark Residents elect new HOA Board of Directors
November 14, 2023 – Dear TrailMark Residents, Tonight at the Annual TrailMark HOA Meeting, residents elected the two open positions to the TrailMark HOA Board of Directors. No one from the floor nominated themselves to serve a two-year term on the TrailMark HOA Board of Directors. Therefore, the election was uncontested and our two new HOA Board Members are Ken Colaizzi and Arwen Vaughan. Your incumbents WON!! Thanks for sending in your ballots. Each November, once our community elects new HOA Board of Directors, the HOA Board must have an organizational meeting to decide who will take which seat on the Board. The TrailMark HOA Board unanimously accepted a motion from Secretary Tonya Sloan to have the organizational meeting amongst the Board publicly tonight at the 2023 Annual Meeting. The five Board Members decided on the following positions effective immediately and through our next Annual Meeting in November of 2024. Your 2024 TrailMark HOA Board of Directors are: Ken Colaizzi, President (2025), Carole Brooks, Vice President (2024), Tonya Sloan, Secretary (2024), Phil Kinney, Treasurer (2024), Arwen Vaughan, Member at Large (2025). The year following each Board Member’s name is the date, in November, when the Board Member’s term will expire. Congratulations to Ken and Arwen for agreeing to serve another term to help the residents of TrailMark! The TrailMark HOA Board would like to extend a huge thank you to the many residents who attended our Annual Meeting tonight. Also, thank you to all the residents who submitted your ballots and proxies. 2023 was a record breaking year as we received nearly 200 proxies and ballots! Our Board sincerely appreciates your involvement and voice into helping TrailMark continue to be the best neighborhood in Littleton. Thank you, Ken Colaizzi, President, TrailMark HOA, Littleton, CO 80127, president@trailmark.org, https://www.trailmark.org
ANNUAL TMMD/HOA MEETING
Tuesday, November 14th, Fire Station 19 in TrailMark. 5:30 pm – TrailMark Metro District (Agenda), 6:00 pm – TrailMark HOA (Agenda). We would like to request that people bring chairs as there may be a shortage of seating. HOA Annual Meeting information -https://www.trailmark.org/1115-hoa-annual-meeting-info.html. All are welcome.
HOA honors our Veterans
November 11, 2023 – Dear TrailMark Residents, The TrailMark HOA Board wishes to thank all of the Veterans in TrailMark. We know there are many U.S. Veterans living within TrailMark and we would like to honor you on Veteran’s Day. Thank you all for your devoted service to our country and the role each of you played to keep our country safe and free. As a son of a Navy Combat Vietnam Vet, I know the sacrifices each of you gave. Veterans, please know today is your day, and all of us in TrailMark are proud of you! Salute, Ken Colaizzi, President, TrailMark HOA, Littleton, CO 80127, president@trailmark.org, https://www.trailmark.orgA response letter to TrailMark homeowners regarding the Solar Panel project
From the project manager of the City and County of Denver. The TrailMark HOA Board was cc’d on this letter and is just passing on the information. Please click on the image to read the letter. >
Posted November 9, 2023
HOA President receives update regarding New Access Point to Hildebrand Ranch Trail
November 7, 2023 – Hi Ken, Good news! I just spoke with Jason, and he is ready to get started on the access points. Rough schedule below: Monday, 11/13 – Begin work. Tuesday, 11/14 – Close the northernmost access point. This will start with 2×4’s across the opening and temporary signage directing people to the other access points. He will also remove the “Welcome” sign from the back side of the fence that the previous homeowners left. We can evaluate this solution and signage in a few months to see if it is working and adjust as needed. Cut the fence for the other two access points and install the gates. Wednesday 11/15-11/21 – Install crusher fines paths to new gates, install new signage. Improvements to the two track just west of the TrailMark fence will happen next year. We will keep you posted about that. I’ll also reach out to South Suburban to let them know the schedule. Have a great evening and let me know if you have any questions! Rachel Brenna, PLA, she/her/hers, Strategy and Planning Director, 303.271.5991 office, jeffco.us
URGENT: Turn in HOA Ballots and Proxies
November 6, 2023 – Dear TrailMark Residents, This is just a friendly reminder to please submit your yellow HOA ballot and your pink proxy ASAP. Proxies and ballots are due on Monday, November 13th, 2023 by 5:00 p.m. The TrailMark HOA Board wants your ballots and proxies to be counted. If you haven’t already done so, please mail your proxy and ballot today to: TrailMark HOA c/o Westwind Management, 27 Inverness Drive East, Englewood CO 80112. Next Tuesday, November 14th, please come to South Metro Fire Station #19 (at the front of TrailMark) for our Annual Meeting. Election results and the 2024 budget will be our primary focus. Meeting agenda – https://www.trailmark.org/uploads/1/4/2/0/142002170/hoa_agenda_20231114_annual.pdf. The November 14th schedule is as follows: 5:30 p.m. TMMD Annual Meeting, 6:00 p.m. HOA Annual Meeting. The TrailMark HOA Board would like to thank the TrailMark Metro District (TMMD) for reorganizing their meeting date to align with the HOA’s date so that all residents can attend one Annual Meeting and participate in both. Both the TMMD and the TrailMark HOA look forward to seeing all of you at our Annual Meetings on November 14th. Have a great week, Ken Colaizzi, President, TrailMark HOA, Littleton, CO 80127, president@trailmark.org, https://www.trailmark.org
Keeping our Neighborhood Beautiful
The Facts About Dog Poop – Dog Poop Doesn’t Biodegrade Like Wild Animal Poop – Because we feed our dogs food that’s different from the food wild animals eat, dog waste does not biodegrade quickly like wild animal waste. And due to the large number of pets in suburban neighborhoods and local parks, this hardy dog waste accumulates. Dog Poop Contains Harmful Bacteria, Parasites – Dog waste can contain harmful organisms like E coli, Giardia, Salmonella, roundworms, hookworms, and Cryptosporidium. These can be passed on to you or your pet and may cause health problems. Dog Waste Pollutes Groundwater, Water Bodies – Bacteria in dog waste can harm water quality in creeks and rivers and alter the ecosystems of these stream corridors. Humans who come in contact with creek water can also face health hazards. County Ordinances Require Cleanup – Jefferson County ordinances make “failure to clean up dog feces in public places” a petty offense with a fine of at least $30. Many local park districts have similar regulations and fines. How You Can Help – Please share this message with your friends and neighbors. Together, we can debunk the poop fairy myth and clean up our county. Source: https://www.jeffco.us/416/Myth-of-the-Poop-Fairy
Posted November 1, 2023
Assessment grace period ends on October 31st
Friendly reminder: There are just a few days left to get quarterly TrailMark HOA assessments paid before late fees are added. Quarterly assessment amount: $135. Payment informational page: https://www.trailmark.org/pay-assessment-fees.html
Regarding the Community Solar Garden
A letter from Denver Botanic Gardens Chatfield Farms – We have heard from a handful of neighbors who have questions and concerns about the Community Solar Garden that Denver Botanic Gardens Chatfield Farms is installing in partnership with National Renewable Energy Labs (NREL), City and County of Denver and Xcel Energy. The project was displayed and discussed at our community Open House on March 26, 2022. The event was advertised in your HOA newsletter. Several neighbors from TrailMark attended based on our sign-in sheets. We recently met with your HOA board president and HOA manager about the project. We reiterated our commitment to preserving the natural beauty of this area. We would not embark on this project if we had any reason to believe that this beauty would be degraded. As a public farm established in the early 1970s, we are constantly looking for new ways to grow crops and educate the public. Agrivoltaics (growing crops under solar arrays) is an emerging field that allows land to remain in production while generating renewable energy. A percentage of this power allotted to Chatfield Farms will make our operation self-sustaining in terms of electricity. We confirmed that the solar panels in the installation will be non-reflective and will not negatively impact wildlife nor create reflected heat issues. This location was also selected as it is out of the wildlife corridor that exists at Chatfield Farms. We also discussed the possibility of planting trees as a buffer in some areas. We will continue to update TrailMark homeowners through your board president and the TrailMark News Update newsletter. We value our relationship with TrailMark and look forward to sharing updates on this project. Larry Vickerman, Director, Denver Botanic Gardens Chatfield Farms, Drew Halpern, Energy Project Manager, Denver Office of Climate Action, Sustainability, and Resiliency
Posted October 27, 2023
Animal Adoption Event at the Denver Audubon Kingery Nature Center
Saturday, October 21, 11:00 am-2:00 pm, 11280 Waterton Rd, Littleton, CO. This Saturday, October 21st, Denver Audubon is partnering with Humane Society of the South Platte Valley to host their Mobile Adoption Unit at our Nature Center in Chatfield State Park. At this free event, community members will have a chance to adopt a cat or dog, and to learn about responsible pet ownership for wildlife from Denver Audubon and Colorado Parks and Wildlife.
TMMD Budget Workshop
The TrailMark Metro District (TMMD) board will be hosting a budget workshop for 2024 budgeting on October 17th, 2023 at 6:30 pm. This is not a regular meeting and no decisions will be made. However, this is an opportunity for the community to join the board in the working of the values for 2024 budgeting. Zoom information: Join Zoom Meeting https://us06web.zoom.us/j/83935565463?pwd=wkRjXuv9KBoyuTgtxXUxBKpoYndaRR.1, Meeting ID: 839 3556 5463, Passcode: 630456
Fading, off-color pine needles normal in Autumn
FORT COLLINS, Colo. – Although thousands of evergreen trees in Colorado’s high country, foothills and communities are beginning to display fading yellow or brown needles, most are simply going through a natural shedding process – they are NOT being damaged by bark beetles or any specific tree insect or disease. Colorado evergreens shed their older, interior needles as part of an annual growth cycle. Needles on the lower portions of the crown or closest to the trunk are most commonly shed, but trees stressed due to drought or root damage may shed more needles to keep the tree in balance with its root system. Soon-to-be-shed needles typically yellow first; then, they turn a reddish-orange or brown color before dropping off. Trees can have varying levels of needle shed, even within the same property or general area. In Colorado, ponderosa and lodgepole pines, as well as some spruce and fir species, are the trees that are most commonly reported to be shedding needles in September and October. Evergreen trees that shed fall needles have a different appearance than trees infested by bark beetles. The needles on a beetle-infested tree typically change color throughout the entire tree (as opposed to only the older needles in healthy trees), initially starting with an off-shade of green and turning to reddish-orange by the following summer. In addition to changing needle color, bark beetle-infested trees will show other signs of attack: popcorn-shaped pitch tubes on the trunk, boring dust resembling fine sawdust collecting in bark crevices and at the base of the tree, regular woodpecker activity. This fall needle drop is frequently mislabeled as “needle cast,” but that term actually refers to a fungal disease of spruce and fir trees. There is no need to spray or otherwise chemically treat pines and other evergreens exhibiting normal fall needle drop. For more information about tree and forest health, contact your local CSFS field office or visit csfs.colostate.edu/forest-management/.
Posted October 16, 2023
It Takes a Village!!!
HUGE THANK YOU’S TO THE COMMON AREA COMMITTEE MEMBERS (CAC) AND VOLUNTEERS WHO SPENT SEVERAL HOURS SUNDAY AFTERNOON BEAUTIFYING TRAILMARK! Kudos to: Gary & Sharon Shepherd, Sandy Farish, Pene Yerigan, and Dennis and Mary Kreeger! Special thanks to HOA member Phil Kinney for supplying tools, trash bags & removal, and bottles of water!!!! The CAC continues to welcome new committee members as well as ideas for CAC projects! Please email common-area@trailmark.org.
Posted October 15, 2023
TrailMark Residents: HOA Board Meeting location feedback requested
The TrailMark HOA Board has an opportunity to hold our bi-monthly HOA meetings at Falcon Bluffs Middle School (8449 S Garrison St, Littleton, CO 80128) and we are asking for your feedback. This is a low cost ($180/year) option for the meetings held in January, March, May, July, September, and November. It will provide the community with the opportunity to attend these meetings in a climate and noise controlled facility, with ample parking and in an ADA compliant facility, without emergency responder activities. We have created this quick and easy form for you to provide your feedback. HOA Meeting Location Feedback form. We ask that you submit your response no later than October 15th.
Current water quality condition at Fairview Reservoir #2 (FR2)
In response to the various complaints by residents of a bad smell in the area of Fairview Reservoir #2 (FR2) that were received on October 11th, a site visit was performed by Aquatics Associates, Inc. (AAI) early the following morning to assess this situation. On October 12th, we confirmed that the water at FR2 had a sulfur-like or dead animal odor, which was consistent with field water test results indicating elevated hydrogen sulfide and low dissolved oxygen levels with other water quality parameters being normal. Note that this “off” water quality condition at FR2 is temporary and will recover naturally on it’s own, typically in days, as oxygen levels increase to normal and any hydrogen sulfide gas present dissipates. The current water quality situation is typical for pond/lakes such as FR2 that are shallow and highly eutrophic due to a thick layer of organic muck/sludge on the pond bottom (nutrient rich) which is usually anoxic (no or very low dissolved oxygen). A hydrogen sulfide odor (rotten egg smell) is associated with organic muck and these gases are released naturally from the bottom sediments anytime oxygen levels are low and when physically disturbed by various causes. While gas releases from the sediments occur naturally on a regular basis, this week’s event was higher than usual for unknown reasons. TrailMark Metro District (TMMD)
Posted October 13, 2023
Please Mail Proxies and Ballots
Update: We have received enough proxies! Thank you, everyone! October 12, 2023 – Dear TrailMark Residents, Our Annual Meeting packets have arrived in our mailboxes. Yea!!! Please fill out the Pink Proxy page, and the Yellow HOA Board of Director’s Ballot ASAP. Make your voice heard. Mail your Proxy and Ballot back to Westwind. Both are due by 5:00 p.m. on Monday, November 13, 2023. Ballots and Proxies can be mailed to: TrailMark HOA, c/o Westwind Management Group, 27 Inverness Drive East, Englewood, CO 80112. Let’s all work together to make 2023 the year where we receive everyone’s proxy and ballot. We appreciate your cooperation. Thank you, Ken Colaizzi, President, TrailMark HOA, Littleton, CO 80127, president@trailmark.org, https://www.trailmark.org
GFL-Republic Update: No delays in October
Tuesday, October 3rd and Tuesday, October 10th are regular trash and recycling pick-up days. No delays due to the Cabrini Day and Columbus Day holidays.
TRAILMARK MOVIE NIGHT “SING 2″
Saturday, October 7th – The movie “Sing 2” starts at dusk. Hogback Hill Park. Come find a spot between 6:00 and 6:30 pm. It will be a cool night undoubtedly, so be sure to dress warmly and bring blankets! Popcorn and waters provided! Sponsored by Lori Ross Dubrova & Associates at REVV Real Estate
HOA Annual Meeting packet coming to your mailbox soon
Update: We have received enough proxies! Thank you, everyone! October 5, 2023 – Dear TrailMark Residents, Within the next week, you should be receiving your HOA Annual meeting packet in the mail. The mailer contains some very important information for all members of the TrailMark HOA. Included in the packet will be: Notice of the Annual HOA Meeting – a blue sheet, Proxy – a pink sheet, HOA Board of Directors Election Ballot – a yellow sheet, HOA Board of Directors Self Nomination Forms – on white paper, 2024 Proposed Budget – on white paper. Once you receive the packet, the TrailMark HOA Board needs you to please fill out the pink Proxy sheet, and the yellow HOA Board of Directors Ballot and return it by USPS mail, email, or fax to: TrailMark HOA c/o Westwind Management Group, 27 Inverness Drive East, Englewood, CO 80112, trailmark@westwindmanagement.com, 303-369-0007 (FAX). The TrailMark HOA guidelines clearly state that we need 10% (at least 80) of the pink proxies signed and returned to validate our Annual Meeting with a quorum. WE NEED YOUR HELP… Please fill out your pink Proxy and your yellow HOA Board of Directors Ballot ASAP and drop it in the mail, email, or fax. All proxies and ballots need to be received by 5:00 p.m. on Monday, November 13th. Please relay this information to your fellow neighbors so everyone can contribute in helping TrailMark. We invite all of you to attend our Annual HOA Meeting on Tuesday, November 14th at 6:00 p.m. at the Fire Station in the front of the neighborhood. The Annual Meeting will include voting-in two positions on the TrailMark HOA Board of Directors, and ratifying the 2024 HOA budget. Please consider joining us on Tuesday, November 14th at 6:00 p.m. Sincerely, Ken Colaizzi, President, TrailMark HOA, Littleton, CO 80127, president@trailmark.org, https://www.trailmark.org
Nationwide Test of Emergency Alert System on Oct. 4
On October 4th, 2023, FEMA, in coordination with the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), and the Puerto Rico Emergency Management Bureau will conduct a nationwide test to assess of the Emergency Alert System (EAS) and Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEA) capabilities. PREMB Commissioner, Nino Correa Filomeno, emphasized that: “These test alerts are necessary to verify that the system is working properly so that, in a real case, citizens will know what to do, depending on the information that is issued. Amid this hurricane season, and any time an emergency occurs, it is necessary to have this system in place.” The WEA and EAS tests are scheduled to begin at approximately at 2:20 pm on Wednesday, Oct. 4. The WEA portion of the test will be initiated using FEMA’s Integrated Public Alert and Warning System (IPAWS), a centralized internet-based system that FEMA manages which enables authorities to send authenticated emergency messages to the public through multiple communications networks. The WEA test sends a code to cell phones. “We want to ensure that the systems continue to be effective, that the public understands and uses these alerts and warnings about emergencies, particularly those on the national level, as we work to strengthen emergency readiness among our communities,” said Orlando Olivera, Coordinator of FEMA’s Caribbean Area Office in Puerto Rico. “This is one step to be ready for emergencies. We are encouraging everyone, especially older adults to “Take Control in 1, 2, 3: Assess your needs, Make a plan, and Engage your support network. Visit www.ready.gov and learn more about it.” Beginning at approximately 2:20 p.m., cell towers will broadcast the signal for approximately 30 minutes. During this time, WEA-compatible wireless phones that are switched on, within range of an active cell tower, and whose wireless provider participates in WEA, should be capable of receiving the test message. To help ensure that these alerts are accessible to the entire public, including people with disabilities, the alerts are accompanied by a unique tone and vibration. Meanwhile, the EAS portion of the test is scheduled to last approximately one minute and will be conducted with the participation of radio and television broadcasters, cable systems, satellite radio and television providers and wireline video providers. Source: https://www.fema.gov/press-release/20231002/nationwide-test-emergency-alert-system-oct-4
CAC Update
The Common Area Committee (CAC) has presented the HOA board with suggested projects and their proposed budget for 2024. These will be shared when and if the budget is approved. Stay tuned!
Posted October 1, 2023
HOA ASSESSMENTS DUE OCTOBER 1st
The assessment for October 1st is $135. More information can be found on our Pay Assessment Fees page. If you have any questions, please email
TrailMark@westwindmanagement.com.
TrailMark Monthly Newsletter
The October issue of the TRAILMARK NEWSLETTER has been emailed out to the TrailMark community. It can be viewed online at: https://www.trailmark.org/newsletter.html. If you didn’t receive your email copy, please sign up here to join the email list: https://www.trailmark.org/email-sign-up.html. If you are signed up and still did not receive your issue, please email the communications committee at: communications@trailmark.org.
TrailMark Community Amenities – Update and Survey
Hi TrailMark residents, On June 26, 2023, staff presented to the South Suburban Board of Directors the findings and recommendations from the 2022 public engagement with the TrailMark Community. The purpose of public engagement was to address the closure of the resident-made bike park in 2021 and explore the community’s needs and desires for additional recreational amenities. An online survey occurred from June 8-Sept. 2, 2022, as part of the overall outreach on the 2022 South Suburban Master Plan. An in-person public engagement event was held on June 30, 2022. The results of this outreach are inconclusive, with 51% in favor and 49% against any type of bike park and no clear preference for the addition of other recreational amenities. Staff recommended the following to the Board: Further investigate the community’s needs and desire for new amenities. Identify potential amenities to engage kids ages 12-16 years of age. Pursue an agreement with the City of Littleton and Jefferson County Schools to develop long term amenities on the future school/park site at Hogback Hill Park. Investigate a potential partnership with Jefferson County Open Spaces to provide additional amenities. Evaluate the southeast section of TrailMark Park for a future bike park. This would be a single-track course with earthen jumps generally located between the fire station and Hildebrand Ranch Park where there are no adjacent homes. We created a new survey for the TrailMark Community to provide South Suburban with further feedback on the desire for additional recreational amenities. The survey will be available from September 6 to September 29. TRAILMARK COMMUNITY AMENITIES SURVEY. Thank you, Becky Grubb, Communications Manager, South Suburban Parks and Recreation, 4810 E County Line Road, Littleton, CO 80126, https://www.ssprd.org/, 303.483.7014 | 720.665.5396 cell
New HOA Email Addresses
We are excited to announce that the TrailMark HOA Board and our committees have been assigned new email addresses. We have been having issues with our old email system, so we recently migrated over to a hosting service that will better serve our needs. Emails that are sent to this email address will go to the TrailMark HOA Board and the management company’s primary contact: trailmark@westwindmanagement.com. The new committee email addresses: The Common Area Committee: common-area@trailmark.org; The Communications Committee: communications@trailmark.org; The Design Review Committee: designreview@trailmark.org; The Social Committee: social@trailmark.org. These email addresses will replace the old “@trailmarkhoa.org” email addresses, so please update your email address books.
Posted September 22, 2023
2023 HOA Budget and 2024 Proposed Budget
View documents here: 2023 HOA Adopted Budget; 2024 HOA Preliminary Budget – Draft
Posted September 21, 2023
FOOD TRUCK THURSDAY
Thursday, September 21st, 5:00-7:30 pm, S Field Way by TrailMark Park. FOOD TRUCKS: Chef in a Box, Anne’s a la Mode. All trucks offer walk-up ordering. If trucks offer online ordering, it will be available when service begins. Please respect those who live on that street. If garbage cans are full, please bring your trash home. Food truck selections subject to change. Due to weather and other circumstances, events may be canceled. Please check the Hand-to-Mouth food truck calendar for real-time changes and cancellation information.
TMMD REGULAR MEETING
Tuesday, September 19th, 6:30 pm. Join Zoom Meeting – https://us06web.zoom.us/j/86456530915?pwd=VnNVUDR3ZWNHMGkxTDdlb0dDQUVlZz09, Meeting ID: 864 5653 0915, Passcode: 452081. Agenda
TRAILMARK METROPOLITAN DISTRICT NOTICE OF REGULAR MEETING
Tuesday, September 19, 2023. NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Board of Directors (the “Board”) of the TrailMark Metropolitan District (the “District”) Town of Littleton, County of Jefferson State of Colorado, will hold a regular meeting at 6:30 P.M. on September 19, 2023 at 9743 South Carr Way, Littleton, CO or via Zoom: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/86456530915?pwd=VnNVUDR3ZWNHMGkxTDdlb0dDQUVlZz09, Phone: 1 720 707 2699; Meeting ID: 864 5653 0915; Passcode: 452081, for the purpose of conducting such business as may come before the Board. The meeting is open to the public. BY ORDER OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS, TRAILMARK METROPOLITAN DISTRICT, By: /s/ COMMUNITY RESOURCE SERVICES OF COLORADO. AGENDA
TrailMark Park Playground Improvements
Design is Underway! South Suburban Parks & Recreation has announced that designs for a new playground at TrailMark Park are underway! Proposed improvements include upgraded playground equipment and rubberized safety surfacing to increase accessibility around the playground. A new shade pavilion will replace the existing structure which is at the end of its useful life. New park benches, as well as standard, and ADA accessible picnic tables will provide comfortable places for people to rest while visiting the playground. To read the original post, visit SSPR’s website. Please direct questions about this project to SSPR.
Posted September 17, 2023
Trash and Recycling Company Transition
A letter to Westwind Management Company – We’ve just received this letter from Republic Services about the acquisition of GFL. Often times in mergers, letters like this are delayed several months in informing their customers. This is a letter to our management company, so any references to billing do not apply directly to TrailMark homeowners. View letter. For comments and questions, residents are welcome to email Westwind Management at trailmark@westwindmanagement.com.
Posted September 16, 2023
Volunteer Opportunity at the Denver Audubon Kingery Nature Center
Community Clean Up Day with Denver Audubon. We need your help to keep the Denver Audubon Kingery Nature Center beautiful. Join us for a one-day volunteer opportunity at our native plant garden in Chatfield State Park. We need help with: Pulling invasive weeds, Watering native plants, Picking up litter, Cleaning. For what ages? Anyone 5+ can lend a hand! High school students can earn community service hours. When and where? Saturday, September 16th, From 9:00 am to 12:00 pm, Denver Audubon Kingery Nature Center, 11280 Waterton Rd, Littleton, CO 80125. REGISTER HERE – https://denveraudubon.app.neoncrm.com/np/clients/denveraudubon/eventRegistration.jsp?event=11163
HOA requests public feedback on Quarterly Assessments increasing to $165 per Quarter
September 13, 2023 – Dear TrailMark Residents, As mentioned in each HOA Meeting this year, the TrailMark HOA Board of Directors has been keeping a close eye on our budget as many expenses have risen sharply over the past year. Every company has raised prices as it’s a sign of the times. Our Board has done our best to cut back expenses, specifically non-discretionary expenses in order to save money. For example, our Board even cut back on the Common Area Committee and Social Committee’s budgets in 2023, so we could help pay the necessary monthly expenses like trash, landscape maintenance, snow removal, irrigation and fence maintenance, and management to name a few. Resident Sandy Farish has always graciously extended her financial expertise and advice to the TrailMark HOA Board considering our annual budget. Sandy was able to crunch our current numbers along with the help of the accountant at Westwind Management Group. A copy of the proposed 2024 budget, along with your proxy, and HOA election ballot will be mailed in your annual meeting packet sometime in October. Our proposed budget for 2024 was presented to the HOA Board of Directors last night. If we continue charging residents $135 per quarter for assessments, then our bottom line would be $39,404 below our budget. This means our quarterly assessments will definitely need to be increased. Our goal is to set a fair and reasonable quarterly assessment where we are not in the red, but where we are able to pay our bills on time, and still contribute a monetary amount to our reserve account as per our guidelines and reserve studies conducted. That being said, the Board looked at alternative, suggested quarterly assessment amounts that Sandy prepared to see if the Board could sustain our monthly expenses with the assessments collected. If the Board were to raise our quarterly assessments to $155 per quarter, our bottom line at the end of 2024, would be $8,625 below budget. So, $155 per quarter will not work. If the Board were to raise our quarterly assessments to $165 per quarter, then our bottom line is $23,375 above budget. The TrailMark HOA Board was advised that this is the safe, comfortable quarterly assessment amount to maintain our fixed expenses, contribute to our reserve account, and keep us from being below budget. The Board even explored a quarterly assessment of $175 per quarter. Charging each household $175 per quarter would leave the Board with a surplus of $55,375 at the end of 2024. The Board agreed that $175 per quarter was too much and not necessary. Prior to the TrailMark HOA Board raising any member’s quarterly assessment, the Board historically has always given our members a 30-day courtesy to collect homeowner feedback and input. If any of you have comments, complaints, or praises considering raising our HOA quarterly assessments to $165 per quarter, then please send your comments by email to trailmark@westwindmanagement.com. All public comments will be collected and are due by October 14th, 2023. Here are some facts to share with residents. Raising our quarterly assessments to $165 will be an additional $10 per month, per household. As you all know $10 is a normal day for a Starbucks customer. One less day at Starbucks per month pays for your increase in quarterly assessments. The Board will begin collecting all public input and listen to the collected public comments at the Annual meeting on November 14th at 6:00 p.m. After reviewing the public comments collected, the Board would then make a public vote at the November 14th Annual meeting to raise our quarterly assessments to $165 per quarter. If the vote passes, then the new $165 per quarter assessment would go into effect on January 1, 2024. Please understand that the TrailMark HOA Board of Directors has tried to avoid a price increase in quarterly assessments as long as we could by cutting expenses where we were able. The time has come where we need to raise our quarterly assessments to $165 per quarter. If you are interested, please take some time and submit your comments and feedback to trailmark@westwindmanagement.com. We appreciate your feedback and cooperation. Thank you, TrailMark HOA Board of Directors. 2023 HOA Adopted Budget, 2024 HOA Preliminary Budget – Draft
TrailMark community comes together in support of Fallen Firefighters at 3rd Annual Chili Cook-off
September 9, 2023 – Dear TrailMark Residents, The HOA Board wishes to thank Lori Ross for sponsoring and organizing the 3rd Annual TrailMark Chili Cook-off for the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation. We’d also like to thank the other sponsors – Crave Nutrition, Gym’s House and Secure-All Security Doors. Many residents came out to taste the white chilis, green chilis, and red chilis. We really have some great cooks here in TrailMark. A special thanks to Station 19 for sending their fire truck over along with their fire fighters who graciously judged all the chilis. The most wonderful news is TrailMark was very generous in making $835 of cash donations and a few hundred dollars more in PayPal donations for the National Fallen Firefighter Foundation in Emmitsburg, Maryland. It’s very rewarding to see our community come together in sharing chili and supporting our firefighters. Chili Cook-off winners: Kristyn Dujardin – red chili, Andrew Fischer – green chili, Tim Lancaster – white chili, Ken and Brooke Colaizzi – fan favorite. Respectfully, Ken Colaizzi, President, TrailMark HOA, Littleton, CO 80127, president@trailmark.org, https://www.trailmark.org
TRAILMARK 3rd ANNUAL CHILI COOK-OFF
Saturday, September 9th, 5:00 pm, Hogback Hill Park in TrailMark. ENTER YOUR CHILI HERE – https://form.jotform.com/rosslori/Chili-Cookoff. Enter by September 7th. Sponsored by Lori Ross, Dubrova & Associates at REVV Real Estate, Crave Nutrition, Gym’s House and Secure-All Security Doors
NOTICE: Maintenance is being done on Black Bear Trail
Read story here.
Posted September 7, 2023
A note from the HOA regarding Solar Panels at Denver Botanic Gardens Chatfield Farms
September 6, 2023 – Dear TrailMark Residents, The Denver Botanic Gardens Chatfield Farms is the property owner who filled out a request for solar panels with Jefferson County. Legally, this matter is outside the purview of the TrailMark HOA since the TrailMark HOA does not own the land specified, nor does the TrailMark HOA have any legal authority to stop such an improvement. Unfortunately, there are some rumors spreading with some misleading and inaccurate information. The TrailMark HOA was never notified, nor consulted of such an improvement by the Denver Botanic Gardens Chatfield Farms. The TrailMark HOA Board just found out about this as many of you did through other homeowners and social media. Westwind Management Group has been the TrailMark HOA managing company since February 24th, and Westwind has never received an email, certified letter, first class mailing, or a phone call regarding this matter whatsoever. If the association had been informed in any capacity regarding this type of solar panel construction, then the TrailMark HOA Board would have publicly provided any and all information given. To date, as of September 6th, neither the Jefferson County Government, nor the Denver Botanic Gardens Chatfield Farms has notified the TrailMark HOA Board in any way. As mentioned earlier, the association does not have any responsibility, purview, or authority to this matter. Therefore, we would like to direct your solar panel installation complaints to the person(s) in charge at the Denver Botanic Gardens Chatfield Farms who may be more suited to answer your questions and listen to your valid concerns. Please feel free to contact the Denver Botanic Gardens Chatfield Farms Director, Larry Vickerman, at 720-865-4337, or by email at vickerml@botanicgardens.org. You may also inquire with Jefferson County Planning and Zoning Department at 303-271-8700. Thank you, Ken Colaizzi, President, TrailMark HOA, Littleton, CO 80127, president@trailmark.org, https://www.trailmark.org
Garbage & Recycling delayed to September 6th
Garbage and recycling pick-up is delayed from Tuesday, September 5th to Wednesday, September 6th due to the Labor Day holiday.
PLEASE NOTE:
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, 2024 budget, and proxy.
Posted September 1, 2023
TrailMark Monthly Newsletter
The September issue of the TRAILMARK NEWSLETTER has been emailed out to the TrailMark community. It can be viewed online at: https://www.trailmark.org/newsletter.html. If you didn’t receive your email copy, please sign up here to join the email list: https://www.trailmark.org/email-sign-up.html. If you are signed up and still did not receive your issue, please email the communications committee at: communications@trailmark.org.
FAMILY PHOTO MAKE-UP DAY
Saturday, August 26th, 6:00-8:00 pm, Between Fire Station 19 and Fairview Reservoir
Family Photo make-up day is August 26th
The make-up day for the rained-out photo day will be on the 26th of August from 6-8 pm. Everyone that was signed up before is still signed up. If you cannot make it, please delete your sign-up so someone else can take the spot. UPDATE 8/26: THREE SLOTS ARE LEFT. SIGN UP HERE
HOA Homeslice Concert was a Smashing Hit
August 20, 2023 – Dear TrailMark Residents, Thank you to all the neighbors who came out to enjoy our Summer concert tonight. The attendance was probably the best we’ve ever seen! HomeSlice band rocked the house with sing-along familiar songs. It was fun watching everyone sing and dance. We won’t talk about those crazy Board members who danced to Superstition. What a hoot!! A very special thank you to the anonymous sponsor who helped pay for HomeSlice band – that was very generous and appreciated by all of us. Again, thank you all for coming to the concert tonight. Our HOA Board hopes you enjoy your week ahead. Cordially, Ken Colaizzi, President, TrailMark HOA, Littleton, CO 80127, president@trailmark.org, https://www.TrailMark.org
TRAILMARK CONCERT IN THE PARK
Sunday, August 20th, 5:30-7:30 pm, Hogback Hill Park. Only one concert is scheduled this year but it is going to be the BEST concert ever! So break out the picnic baskets, lawn chairs and outdoor blankets and settle in! Or, enjoy food available to purchase from the taco and shaved ice food trucks. Bounce house(s) and face painters for the kiddos! HomeSlice is a high energy nine-piece cover band with an impressive horn section and powerful vocals. The band has experience, talent, professionalism, an extremely diversified song list, and a personable nature that is winning fans over everywhere. HomeSlice gets the party started! Check out the band – HOMESLICEBAND.COM. See you there!
Concert time changed to 5:30-7:30 pm
The time of TrailMark’s Concert in the Park has been changed back to it’s original time. HomeSlice will be at Hogback Hill Park on Sunday, August 20th from 5:30 to 7:30 pm. Only one concert is scheduled this year but it is going to be the BEST concert ever! So break out the picnic baskets, lawn chairs and outdoor blankets and settle in! Or, enjoy food available to purchase from the taco and shaved ice food trucks. Bounce house(s) and face painters for the kiddos! HomeSlice is a high energy nine-piece cover band with an impressive horn section and powerful vocals. The band has experience, talent, professionalism, an extremely diversified song list, and a personable nature that is winning fans over everywhere. HomeSlice gets the party started! Check out the band – HOMESLICEBAND.COM. See you there!
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 August 17, 2023
FOOD TRUCK THURSDAY
Thursday, August 17th, 5:00-7:30 pm, S Field Way by TrailMark Park. FOOD TRUCKS: Gyros King, Hip Pops. All trucks offer walk-up ordering. If trucks offer online ordering, it will be available when service begins. Please respect those who live on that street. If garbage cans are full, please bring your trash home. Food truck selections subject to change. Due to weather and other circumstances, events may be canceled. Please check the Hand-to-Mouth food truck calendar for real-time changes and cancellation information.
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 13, 2023
HOA is looking for Candidates
August 9, 2023 – Dear TrailMark Residents, It’s that time of year again….Time to elect your HOA Board of Directors. The HOA is looking for volunteers who would like to run for the HOA Board of Directors. This is a great opportunity for residents to jump in and give back to TrailMark. Requirements are the following: You must be a TrailMark resident. Your dues must be paid in full (including quarterly assessments, and any outstanding fines). Willing to dedicate approximately 1 to 10 hours per week by email or in person. Attend bi-monthly HOA Board meetings. Attend bi-monthly workshops with the management company. Willing to follow and adhere to the TrailMark CCR’s and DRC guidelines. Willing to participate in TrailMark social events. Willing to serve a Two-Year commitment from 2023-2025. New Board Member training will be conducted by Westwind Management Group, and by remaining HOA Board Members. If you are interested in running for the TrailMark HOA Board of Directors, please fill out the included self-nomination form and return it by email to trailmark@westwindmanagement.com, or by USPS mail to Westwind Management Group at 27 Inverness Drive East Englewood, CO 80112. The self-nomination form is due to Westwind Management no later than Thursday, September 28th at 5:00 p.m. Self-nominations received by September 28th will assure that your name is on the ballot that will be distributed to all homeowners in early October for voting. There will be two open positions on the TrailMark HOA Board of Directors in November. Once the Board is elected, the HOA Board of Directors will have a meeting amongst the Board members, so each Board member can choose who will fill which position (President, Vice President, Treasurer, Secretary, and Member at Large). Historically, this meeting will happen a few weeks following the November 14th Annual Meeting. The results of the election will be announced at our Annual HOA meeting on November 14th at 6:00 p.m. at TrailMark Fire Station #19. Please consider volunteering your time and learning how your HOA works for the entire community. We look forward to hearing from inspiring, eager candidates who would love to step forward and run for the HOA Board of Directors. Many thanks, Self-Nomination form. Ken Colaizzi, President, TrailMark HOA, Littleton, CO 80127, president@trailmark.org, https://www.trailmark.org
Amateur Photographers Wanted!
Hey, Neighbors! The communications committee is looking for photos taken around the neighborhood, and at TrailMark events, to use in our future newsletters and on our other communications outlets. To have your photos considered, please post them to the new TrailMark @ Chatfield Community Group page on Facebook. We are currently looking for recent photos of TrailMark, and photos from our July 29th Pirates Cove event. When your photos are chosen, you will be notified and your name will be credited. Not every photo will ultimately be used, but all are greatly appreciated. Thanks, The Communications Committee
Posted August 8, 2023
Required Notice Pursuant to House Bill 23-1105 – HOA and Metropolitan District Homeowners’ Rights Task Force
House Bill 23-1105 created the HOA and Metropolitan District Homeowners’ Rights Task Forces to examine certain matters in communities that are governed by these entities. The Metropolitan District Homeowners’ Rights Task Force will review, among other matters, tax levying authority and practices, foreclosure practices, communications with homeowners and governance policies. A requirement of the new law is that we notify you of the creation and existence of the Metropolitan District Homeowners’ Rights Task Force prior to its first meeting. If you have any questions about the Metropolitan District Homeowners’ Rights Task Force, please reach out to the Colorado Department of Regulatory Agencies or visit their website at https://dora.colorado.gov.
Posted August 7, 2023
CAC Project Approved
CAC’s final project for the 2023 budget will be refurbishing the first planting area just to the north of the half-driveway across from the fire station. LCS will refresh this area so that it “works” with the themes presented on the medians. This will include: new weed barrier, cobble along the edge, refreshed mulch and a larger boulder or two to fill in vacated spaces. Work will begin as it fits into LCS’ schedule. CAC members did a “drive around” and identified areas in need of attention for the 2024 budget request. Members will be meeting with LCS to articulate these ideas so we can get proposals to submit to the HOA board.
Posted August 6, 2023
FOOD TRUCK THURSDAY
Thursday, August 3rd, 5:00-7:30 pm, S Field Way by TrailMark Park. FOOD TRUCKS: Peyote Mexican Food, High Point Creamery. All trucks offer walk-up ordering. If trucks offer online ordering, it will be available when service begins. Please respect those who live on that street. If garbage cans are full, please bring your trash home. Food truck selections subject to change. Due to weather and other circumstances, events may be canceled. Please check the Hand-to-Mouth food truck calendar for real-time changes and cancellation information.
NATIONAL NIGHT OUT
Tuesday, August 1st, 6:00-8:00 pm, TrailMark Park (playground). Come meet your neighbors! Littleton Police will be there with Citizens’ Academy. Kids, come check out a police car and ask questions! Starbucks will be there with goodies. Eat at the LB Tacos food truck.
TrailMark Monthly Newsletter
The August issue of the TRAILMARK NEWSLETTER has been emailed out to the TrailMark community. It can be viewed online at: https://www.trailmark.org/newsletter.html. If you didn’t receive your email copy, please sign up here to join the email list: https://www.trailmark.org/email-sign-up.html. If you are signed up and still did not receive your issue, please email the communications committee at: communications@trailmarkhoa.org.
TrailMark residents swim at Pirates Cove
July 30, 2023 – Dear TrailMark Residents, The HOA Board was pleased to see the outstanding turnout at Pirates Cove last night. The weather held out for a gorgeous night of swimming. 235 residents enjoyed the swimming, lazy river, water slides, cotton candy, and nachos. Seeing the smiles and giggles from the kids swimming sure warmed our hearts. Attending these social events is what makes TrailMark the dynamic community that it is. A big thank you to our Social Committee for organizing such a fun event for our residents! In conclusion, please consider coming to TrailMark Park Tuesday, August 1st from 6:00-8:00 pm for National Night Out with Littleton Police. LB Tacos, Marc the snow cone guy, and Starbucks will be at the park too. It’s a fantastic opportunity for kids to play in the police cars, and for us adults to thank our Littleton Police Officers for keeping TrailMark safe. Many thanks, Ken Colaizzi, President, TrailMark HOA, Littleton, CO 80127, president@trailmarkhoa.org, https://www.TrailMark.org
TRAILMARK NIGHT AT PIRATES COVE
Saturday, July 29th, 6:00-8:00 pm, Pirates Cove Water Park, 1225 W Belleview Ave in Englewood. Join us for a night of swimming at Pirates Cove! Open exclusively to TrailMark at a cost of only $5 per person (age 2 & under are free). CASH ONLY. Pay at the door. Concessions available. Volunteers needed to help at the check-in table! Contact social@trailmarkhoa.org.
FOOD TRUCK THURSDAY
Thursday, July 20th, 5:00-7:30 pm, S Field Way by TrailMark Park. FOOD TRUCKS: Big Stuff, Repicci’s Gelato & Italian Ice. All trucks offer walk-up ordering. If trucks offer online ordering, it will be available when service begins. Please respect those who live on that street. If garbage cans are full, please bring your trash home. Food truck selections subject to change. Due to weather and other circumstances, events may be canceled. Please check the Hand-to-Mouth food truck calendar for real-time changes and cancellation information.
Reminder:
Please trim low-hanging branches which might impede pedestrian traffic on our sidewalks.
Posted July 18, 2023
TRAILMARK METROPOLITAN DISTRICT NOTICE OF REGULAR MEETING
TUESDAY, JULY 18, 2023 – NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Board of Directors (the “Board”) of the TrailMark Metropolitan District (the “District”) Town of Littleton, County of Jefferson State of Colorado, will hold a special meeting at 6:30 P.M. on Tuesday, July 18, 2023, at 9743 South Carr Way, Littleton, CO or via zoom: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/89852017094?pwd=YjhxeEx2TDhheXdjVitsa2F0K0lndz09. Phone: 1 720 707 2699; Meeting ID: 898 5201 7094; Passcode: 602274 for the purpose of conducting such business as may come before the Board. The meeting is open to the public. BY ORDER OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS TRAILMARK METROPOLITAN DISTRICT. By: /s/ COMMUNITY RESOURCE SERVICES OF COLORADO
TMMD REGULAR MEETING
Tuesday, July 18th, 6:30 pm. Join Zoom Meeting https://us06web.zoom.us/j/89852017094?pwd=YjhxeEx2TDhheXdjVitsa2F0K0lndz09 Meeting ID: 898 5201 7094 Passcode: 602274 One tap mobile +17207072699,,89852017094# US (Denver) Dial by your location • +1 720 707 2699 US (Denver) Find your local number: https://us06web.zoom.us/u/kdDg0EtrbK
Black Bear Trail to open August 1st
The Black Bear Trail is a difficult shared-use trail connecting Deer Creek Canyon Park and Hildebrand Ranch Park with a seasonal closure from February 1 to July 31. More information
Posted July 17, 2023
HOA Board receives update on new playground at TrailMark Park
July 14, 2023 – Dear TrailMark Residents, Several homeowners have been asking the HOA Board for an update to the new playground that South Suburban Parks and Rec (SSPR) is planning at TrailMark Park. The TrailMark HOA Board sent an email to SSPR asking for a more specific timeline, and the following is the response from Andy Jennings at SSPR regarding the new playground: “This is the updated schedule we got from Planning. Looks like construction won’t start until next year. Partially due to funding but also they didn’t want to take the playground out of commission all winter. This way they can begin construction in the spring and complete sometime in the summer. If you have questions feel free to reach out to Will Barringer, Park Planner II. Design: June – August. Bidding Process: September – November. Award of Contract: February 2024. Purchase Playground Equipment: February 2024. Construction: TBD based on playground equipment/shelter lead time and weather – Most likely March – May 2024.” The TrailMark HOA Board wanted to be transparent and pass on the information that we received. Again, if you have any further questions regarding the new playground at TrailMark Park, please email Will Barringer at wbarringer@ssprd.org. Thank you, TrailMark HOA Board
HOA BOARD MEETING
Tuesday, July 11th, 6:00 pm, Fire Station 19 in TrailMark. Agenda. All are welcome.
PLEASE, No Trash Cans out on Monday Nights!!
July 11, 2023 – Dear TrailMark Residents, On Monday, July 10th, a bear was sighted in TrailMark eating out of homeowners’ trash cans. The bear was spotted both in the morning hours as well as the evening hours throughout TrailMark. The bear is attracted to your trash. The HOA Board is urging homeowners to please abide and cooperate with the TrailMark trash policy, https://www.trailmark.org/uploads/1/4/2/0/142002170/hoa_trashpolicy_20190713.pdf. The TrailMark HOA does not permit nor allow any homeowner to put their trash cans out the night before trash day, Monday nights. Westwind Management Group will be performing inspections on Monday nights and strictly enforcing our trash policy. Homeowners who insist on putting their trash out on Monday nights will be fined, per our trash policy. Trash cans and recycle cans are to be put out at the curb on trash mornings only, by 7:00 a.m. – not Monday night. Our Board does not want to see trash scattered throughout the neighborhood, nor a resident get injured, nor the bears euthanized because of homeowners not following the trash policy. To keep all residents safe, we need your immediate attention and cooperation! This photo of the hungry bear was submitted by a resident on Monday, July 10th at 8:30 p.m. Keeping your trash cans inside your garage until trash morning will help all neighbors out, and save the bears’ lives. Thank you, Ken Colaizzi, President, TrailMark HOA, Littleton, CO 80127, president@trailmarkhoa.org, https://www.trailmark.org
FAMILY PHOTO DAY #2
Saturday, July 8th with Photographer Kristin Blasi, 6:00-8:00 pm. Between Fire Station 19 and the pond. We have 3 amazing resident photographers offering 3 amazing opportunities to get a free family portrait taken in our beautiful neighborhood. Sign up for ONE time slot and then bring your family for one free family pose. If you like the result, please consider using them for a full session in the future with your family. Hurry, there are only 4 family slots per 30-minute block. Arrive early in your time slot and be the first in line. Wait time should be no more than 25 minutes. SIGN UP HERE. Future date: August 5th with Jennifer Reeves
TrailBark
(pics of dogs)Posted July 6, 2023
Garbage & Recycling delayed to July 5th
Garbage and recycling pick-up is delayed from Tuesday, July 4th to Wednesday, July 5th due to the Independence Day holiday.
A Festive 4th of July
July 4, 2023 – Dear TrailMark Residents, Thank you to all of you who came out for our annual 4th of July Kids Bike Parade. The festive bikes were incredible! Kids really had their bikes and faces decorated to bring in America’s 247th birthday. A special thanks to South Metro Fire and Littleton Police for leading our parade. Also, a special thank you to all of our Social Committee volunteers for decorating and organizing this fun activity for TrailMark. Our Board hopes each of you enjoys a safe 4th of July with your families. Sincerely, Ken Colaizzi, President, TrailMark HOA, Littleton, CO 80127, president@trailmarkhoa.org, https://www.TrailMark.org
Celebrating the 4th of July
The HOA Board wishes all homeowners and residents a Happy 4th of July, and we hope that all will celebrate Independence Day safely and within the law. The following is provided as a courtesy to all. Fireworks in Littleton – TrailMark falls within the city limits of Littleton, therefore, the city rules apply. All personal fireworks are illegal in Littleton, including sparklers. If you see or hear fireworks, report it to the Littleton Police non-emergency number at 303-794-1551. You may also download the Jeffcom911 phone app to report illegal fireworks, or go online to https://jeffcom911.org/. Fireworks and Pets – Protect Your Pets: According to animal control officers, more dogs get lost around July 4th than any other time of the year. Keep your pets properly confined to avoid escape due to fear of fireworks. Have your dog’s license and identification up to date so that, in the event your pet does escape, Animal Control can facilitate a quick return. Leave the Fireworks to the Professionals – Attend a public fireworks display. Some local Fireworks displays/celebrations: July 3rd at Clement Park, July 4th at Cornerstone Park
4th OF JULY BIKE PARADE
Tuesday, July 4th, 9:00 am, TrailMark Park (playground). Dress up your bikes, wagons and scooters for the Annual TrailMark 4th of July Bike Parade, led by the Littleton Police Department and South Metro Fire Rescue! Come early for coffee and donuts! There will also be otter pops, a face painter and a bounce house for the younger kids to enjoy! Sponsored by Ken Colaizzi with Secure-All Security Doors
HOA Invites All to 4th of July Kids Bike Parade
July 2, 2023 – Dear TrailMark Residents, The TrailMark HOA Board along with the Social Committee is proud to announce our annual 4th of July Kids Bike Parade this Tuesday, July 4th at 9:00 a.m. sharp at TrailMark Park. We’d love for you and your family to come join in the fun of this TrailMark tradition. Kids, it’s time to get your bicycles decorated for the 4th of July. The bike parade will be led by South Metro Fire and Littleton Police. Both departments have offered to show off their emergency vehicles after the bike parade if there are no pressing emergencies. Please come early to enjoy donuts, coffee, and the camaraderie of your fellow neighbors on America’s 247th birthday. There will be a bouncy house and face painting for the younger kids to enjoy. Otter Pops will also be available after the bike parade. We all look forward to seeing you on the 4th of July for the annual Kids Bike Parade! Thank you, Ken Colaizzi, President, TrailMark HOA, Littleton, CO 80127, president@trailmarkhoa.org, https://www.trailmark.org
Numerous recent Home Improvement projects had potential for delay due to Incomplete Requests
The months of April-June are routinely those when the greatest number of requests are received. Over the last several months, many projects have had the potential for being delayed due to incomplete request documentation. The HOA website provides a great deal of information about individual requests and what is required to be considered. This information might assist with submitting a complete request, thereby minimizing the potential project delays: Requirements for a completed request. Find forms on the TrailMark HOA website: https://www.trailmark.org/hoa-documents-amp-forms.html. Emergency Requests. Review the TrailMark Design Guidelines to determine what is required, before you submit a request: https://www.trailmark.org/uploads/3/9/0/8/39089355/trailmark_design_guidelines_2002.pdf. Additional Design Guideline addendums for the following may be found at HOA Documents & Forms – TrailMark. Artificial Turf/Grass, Doors, Driveway Installation/Replacement, Fencing, Garage Doors, Solar Panel installation, Swimming Pool, List of Routine Home Maintenance/Repairs Not Requiring DRC Review, Exterior Paint Colors. In general, incomplete requests will be re-reviewed during the next meeting week after all required documents are submitted. The Design Review Committee (DRC) reviews exterior homeowner improvement requests the 1st and 3rd week of every month, schedules permitting. To ensure that your completed request (includes all required documentation) receives a timely review, it must be received by the management company not later than 12:00 noon, the Friday prior to the scheduled DRC meeting week.
Posted July 1, 2023
Seeking DRC Volunteers
(Design Review Committee) Interested in developing new TrailMark property standards, color schemes, and more? The DRC seeks volunteers to join this very important committee. Check out the Volunteer for the DRC page, and submit your interest in joining the DRC to designreview@trailmarkhoa.org.
The next HOA Assessments are due July 1st
More information can be found on our Pay Assessment Fees page. If you have any questions, please email TrailMark@westwindmanagement.com.
TrailMark Monthly Newsletter
The July issue of the TRAILMARK NEWSLETTER has been emailed out to the TrailMark community. It can be viewed online at: https://www.trailmark.org/newsletter.html. If you didn’t receive your email copy, please sign up here to join the email list: https://www.trailmark.org/email-sign-up.html. If you are signed up and still did not receive your issue, please email the communications committee at: communications@trailmarkhoa.org.
Westwind Management Group hosts Meet & Greet with TrailMark residents
June 28, 2023 – Dear TrailMark Residents, Westwind Management hosted a Meet and Greet with TrailMark residents at the Homewood Suites on Tuesday, June 27th at 6:00 p.m. While enjoying refreshments provided by Westwind, residents were able to mingle with fellow neighbors, HOA Board Members, and Westwind employees. Residents were able to meet the entire team of personnel who oversees managing TrailMark from the owner of Westwind, to our HOA Manager, Julie Berry. Westwind is committed to giving TrailMark residents and our HOA Board top notch service. Westwind Highlights that came out of the Meet and Greet were as follows: Westwind has a company policy to return your emails and/or phone calls within one business day. Westwind has a dedicated phone line for TrailMark residents: 720-756-3287, Westwind has a dedicated email address for TrailMark residents: trailmark@westwindmanagment.com. TrailMark HOA Highlights that came out of the Meet and Greet were as follows: The TrailMark HOA publishes all announcements and important information (i.e. policies, required DRC forms) on the community website, www.TrailMark.org. The TrailMark HOA also publishes all articles and announcements on the TrailMark HOA Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/groups/trailmark. Please request to join if you are not already a member. It was a fantastic Meet and Greet where homeowners were able to openly ask questions regarding the HOA and the operations of Westwind Management. The entire TrailMark HOA Board thanks each of you for attending. We sure hope to see all of you at our next HOA meeting, on July 11th at 6:00 p.m. at Fire Station 19 in TrailMark. Please come and stay involved – All of us Board members are happy to serve you. Sincerely, Ken Colaizzi, President, TrailMark HOA, Littleton, CO 80127, president@trailmarkhoa.org, https://www.trailmark.org
New Sponsorship Form
The HOA Board has created a new easier-to-complete form for HOA Sponsorship. (Click here to view form.) The Social Committee is always looking for business sponsors for events. In order to keep from raising event prices/entrance fees they are seeking sponsors for various portions of events, or entire event sponsors. This could include paying for the bounce houses or face painters at the summer concerts, 4th of July or TM5K events; paying for coffee and donuts at the Easter Egg Hunt or 4th of July events; or even sponsoring carriage rides at the TrailMark Night at the Lights. If you or your business are interested in helping to sponsor one or more of these events, please fill out and email this form to social@trailmarkhoa.org. This form can also be found on the Social Committee page.
Posted June 16; Updated June 27, 2023
MEET & GREET WITH WESTWIND MANAGEMENT GROUP
Tuesday, June 27th, 6:00 pm, Homewood Suites, 7630 Shaffer Parkway, Littleton. A great opportunity to meet our assigned manager, Julie Berry, and all of the other representatives that help manage the TrailMark HOA every single day. Residents will be able to ask Westwind representatives questions about covenant compliance, House Bill 1137, Westwind portal questions, DRC questions, HOA dues questions, HOA election questions, and all other HOA related issues. The majority of our HOA Board Members will be in attendance as well.
TrailMark HOA Announces 4th of July Bike Parade
June 26, 2023 – Dear TrailMark Residents, In just 8 more days, TrailMark kids will be showing off their decorated bikes for our annual 4th of July Kids Bike parade. Parents, please help your kids dress up and decorate their bikes for a great 4th of July parade, as we honor the 247th birthday of the U.S.A. The 4th of July Bike Parade begins at 9:00 a.m. sharp at TrailMark Park! The TrailMark Social Committee has organized a special visit from South Metro Fire and the Littleton Police Department – as the two agencies will lead our bike parade. As usual, there will be donuts, coffee, and otter pops. Please come to TrailMark Park early to enjoy some coffee and donuts prior to the parade. There will also be a bouncy house and face painter for the younger kids to enjoy. The TrailMark HOA Board looks forward to celebrating this fun holiday with each of you. Thanks again to our Social Committee, South Metro Fire, and Littleton Police for keeping this childhood tradition a lasting memory for all of us. Thank you, Ken Colaizzi, President, TrailMark HOA, Littleton, CO 80127, president@trailmarkhoa.org, https://www.trailmark.org
FAMILY PHOTO DAY #1
Saturday, June 24th with Photographer Megan Babcock 6:00-8:00 pm. Between Fire Station 19 and the pond. We have 3 amazing resident photographers offering 3 amazing opportunities to get a free family portrait taken in our beautiful neighborhood. Sign up for ONE time slot and then bring your family for one free family pose. If you like the result, please consider using them for a full session in the future with your family. Hurry, there are only 4 family slots per 30-minute block. Arrive early in your time slot and be the first in line. Wait time should be no more than 25 minutes. SIGN UP HERE. Future dates: July 8th with Kristin Blasi, and August 5th with Jennifer Reeves
HOA Board invites you to Westwind Meet & Greet
June 21, 2023 – Dear TrailMark Residents, Please join your fellow neighbors and your HOA Board Members on Tuesday, June 27th at 6:00 pm as we welcome our new management company, Westwind Management Group. Westwind Management Group is hosting a Meet and Greet for all TrailMark residents at the Homewood Suites located at 7630 Shaffer Parkway. This is a great opportunity to come ask questions about your HOA. Refreshments will be served. A big thank you to Linda Jagiello, Sabrina Colaizzi, and Darcy Jones for making and posting all of our homemade signs for the Meet and Greet. We look forward to seeing you there! Thank you, Ken Colaizzi, President, TrailMark HOA, Littleton, CO 80127, president@trailmarkhoa.org, https://www.trailmark.org
TrailMark target of hate flyers
June 18, 2023 – Dear TrailMark Residents, It’s terribly saddening to send this type of notification on Father’s Day morning. Several homes on TrailMark Parkway and West Baden Drive woke up to “hate flyers” left on their driveways, in the gutters in front of their homes, or in their grass. If you received one of these hate flyers, please report it to Littleton Police at 303-794-1551. These kinds of actions are disturbing and need to be reported. All of us neighbors here in TrailMark need to give Littleton Police all of the evidence and camera footage you have. None of us want to see this kind of hate in our neighborhood and we as neighbors will do our best to squash it. Thank you for your cooperation. Sincerely, Ken Colaizzi, President, TrailMark HOA, Littleton, CO 80127, president@trailmarkhoa.org, https://www.trailmark.org
Happy Father’s Day
June 18, 2023 – Dear TrailMark Residents, Our Board would like to recognize and wish all of the Fathers in TrailMark a very Happy Father’s Day today. Hopefully, all the kids can enjoy their time today with their fathers. It’s a great day to cook outside, or take Dad for a bike ride through our beautiful neighborhood. Enjoy the beautiful Father’s Day, and salute to all the Dad’s in TrailMark – you deserve a break today. Sincerely, Ken Colaizzi, President, TrailMark HOA, Littleton, CO 80127, president@trailmarkhoa.org, https://www.trailmark.org
TrailMark Underdrain Improvements
From the City of Littleton – Description: Installing approximately 2,000 LF of underdrain along W Belfast Pl and S Holland Way. Purpose: Improve drainage and reduce impacts of subsurface water for residents. Impact: Intermittent and temporary lane closures along W Belfast Pl and S Holland Way for approximately 3 months. Anticipated Construction: Summer 2023 – Fall 2023. City of Littleton Budget: $150,000. View web page of City of Littleton projects beginning in 2023
Posted June 15, 2023
WELCOME, NEW RESIDENTS!
There is a web page that welcomes TrailMark’s incoming residents and offers essential information for a smooth transition. View it here – https://www.trailmark.org/new-residents.html
Posted June 14, 2023
Don’t throw it out…
Post it on the FREE IN TRAILMARK Facebook page – https://www.facebook.com/groups/freeintrailmark. Not affiliated with the TrailMark HOA.
Posted June 10, 2023
Garage Sale and Kidz Market, from the HOA President
June 10, 2023 – Dear TrailMark Residents, Our Board would like to extend a sincere THANK YOU to Lori Ross for sponsoring this year’s garage sale. Several homeowners praised and complimented the organization and advertising of this year’s garage sale. Hats off to Lori for helping TrailMark folks sell their belongings. It was also fun watching the numerous child-run booths. Kids were selling plants, lemonade, coffee, muffins, lemon bread, donuts, bagels, just to mention a few. We adults should feel good about the entrepreneurs being raised. Thank you to the Lancaster family for allowing this picture to be published of your children selling their homemade lemonade – what a great stand. Also, congratulations to the Thurber boys for winning the kid run booth – your 33% sale was heartwarming and ingenious. TrailMark residents came together as a community and helped one another have a very successful garage sale. We truly live in the best neighborhood in Littleton! Sincerely, Ken Colaizzi, President, TrailMark HOA, Littleton, CO 80127, president@trailmarkhoa.org, https://www.trailmark.org
TRAILMARK COMMUNITY GARAGE SALE & KIDZ MARKET
Friday, June 9th & Saturday, June 10th, 7:30 am-2:00 pm throughout TrailMark. Sponsored by Lori Ross with Dubrova Associates at REVV Real Estate
CAC Improvements
from the HOA President, June 8, 2023 – Dear TrailMark Residents, Recently, our HOA Board approved several of the CAC (Common Area Committee) requested improvements to dress up TrailMark. Our CAC volunteers spent hours designing and planning these magnificent upgrades and noticeable changes. LCS, our HOA landscape contractor, has been here the whole week carrying out these work orders. We’ve included some pictures to illustrate the laborious work involved in beautifying our community. Projects include: 4 new trees, landscape around the HOA shed, xeriscape work near South Carr and TrailMark, trimming many of the trees and bushes to keep the sidewalks clear, and a gorgeous new design on the Northwest corner of South Flower and TrailMark. The Board joins all of our residents in sending a BIG THANK YOU to all of the volunteers on the CAC Committee along with all the employees at LCS for adding the sparkle to the diamond of a neighborhood that each of us get to call HOME. With gratitude, Ken Colaizzi, President, TrailMark HOA, Littleton, CO 80127, president@trailmarkhoa.org, https://www.trailmark.org
HOA President announces Meet and Greet with Westwind Management Group
June 7, 2023 – Dear TrailMark Residents, Our entire HOA Board is pleased to announce the date and time of the Meet and Greet with Westwind Management Group. Please mark your calendars for June 27th at 6:00 p.m. at the Homewood Suites located at 7630 Shaffer Parkway, Littleton, CO 80127. When our HOA Board hired Westwind Management Group back in February 2023, our Board felt is was very important to set up a Meet and Greet so our residents can meet the Westwind Management team in person. This is a great opportunity to meet our assigned manager, Julie Berry, and all of the other representatives that help manage the TrailMark HOA every single day. Residents will be able to ask Westwind representatives questions about covenant compliance, House Bill 1137, Westwind portal questions, DRC questions, HOA dues questions, HOA election questions, and all other HOA related issues. The majority of our HOA Board Members will be in attendance as well. Again, please make a point to join us on Tuesday, June 27th at 6:00 p.m. at the Homewood Suites located at 7630 Shaffer Parkway, Littleton, CO 80127. Our HOA Board looks forward to introducing all of you to our very professional, competent, and efficient management company, Westwind Management Group. Sincerely, Ken Colaizzi, President, TrailMark HOA, Littleton, CO 80127, president@trailmarkhoa.org, https://www.trailmark.org
Amended Collection Policy
Due to recently passed legislation (House Bill 22-1137), it became necessary to amend the Association’s Collection Policy. The Board approved the Amended Collection Policy effective May 9, 2023. The full version of the Amended Association Collection Policy may be found in your Association’s online account at TrailMark Owner Community Portal, “Homeowner Resources” listed under “Documents” and then under “Governing.” AMENDED COLLECTION POLICY SUMMARY letter
Posted June 5, 2023
Delinquent Accounts from the HOA President
June 3, 2023 – Dear TrailMark Residents, On Thursday, June 1st, Westwind Management Group informed the Board that the majority of our residents paid their 2nd quarter HOA dues on time. As many of you know, the HOA Board graciously extended the Quarter 2 deadline from April 30th to May 31st because of the transition. It was refreshing to see that 94% of our neighbors have signed up with Westwind’s new portal and/or used their coupon book payments that were mailed to all 799 homes. The TrailMark HOA and Westwind Management Group were very proactive in sending multiple reminder notices to delinquent accounts. Notices that were mailed by Westwind Management included statements, post cards, coupon payment books, and reminders of how to sign up for the Westwind portal. The TrailMark HOA even hung a banner at the front monument for 12 days reminding residents to pay their dues on time. These persistent efforts of notification enabled our outstanding delinquent accounts to shrink to 6%, or 51 homeowners. Now that the due date and grace period for Quarter 2 has expired, the outstanding delinquent accounts will now syphon through the process of our collections policy. Please understand that the TrailMark HOA, along with every HOA in Colorado, must follow these strict new state guidelines mandated in House Bill 1137. Delinquent accounts will encounter late fees, interest, and additional statements mailed by USPS, certified mailings, and notices served by a process server – all mandated by Colorado House Bill 1137. If you know that you have a delinquent HOA account, you can resolve it quickly by contacting Westwind Management Group at 720-756-3187, or trailmark@westwindmanagment.com. The good news is that 748 homes, or 94% of the community have successfully paid their HOA dues on time and have signed up with Westwind Management Group’s portal. The HOA is dependent on every homeowner paying their $135 quarterly dues on the 1st of January, April, July, and October. A big Thank You to all of you who have paid on time – which is the majority of you!! Thank you, Ken Colaizzi, President, TrailMark HOA, Littleton, CO 80127, president@trailmarkhoa.org, https://www.trailmark.org
Many Exterior Projects must be approved
Exterior Home and Property Improvement projects are likely to require being reviewed and approved by the HOA’s Design Review Committee (DRC) for compliance with the Community’s Covenants and Standards. Kindly check the HOA Documents & Forms page on the TrailMark website to see what guidelines and exceptions might apply to your exterior projects before you begin.
Posted June 1, 2023
Important Phone Numbers all in one place
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, 2023
Westwind Meet & Greet in June
Check back here at trailmark.org for updated information.
Posted June 1, 2023
TrailMark Monthly Newsletter
The June issue of the TRAILMARK NEWSLETTER has been emailed out to the TrailMark community. It can be viewed online at: https://www.trailmark.org/newsletter.html. If you didn’t receive your email copy, please sign up here to join the email list: https://www.trailmark.org/email-sign-up.html. If you are signed up and still did not receive your issue, please email the communications committee at: communications@trailmarkhoa.org.
Assessment Extension to May 31st
Reminder: Due to the recent change in management companies, assessments that were due on April 1st will not be considered late until May 31st. All TrailMark residents should have received an email from Westwind Management Group with details about how to access their new resident portal and making assessment payments. More information can be found on TrailMark’s Pay Assessments page.
Garbage & Recycling delayed to May 31st
Garbage and recycling pick-up is delayed from Tuesday, May 30th to Wednesday, May 31st due to the Memorial Day holiday.
Sponsors and Memorial Day from the HOA President
May 28, 2023 – Dear TrailMark Residents, During this holiday weekend, I wanted to send you an update about sponsorships, and also take some time to honor our veterans. Since our past HOA meeting on May 9th, I’ve been able to have some positive discussions with our Social Committee and the HOA Board about sponsorships for our community events. The Social Committee and the HOA Board unanimously agree that Board members and Committee Members can, in fact, be helpful sponsors to our community events without being a conflict of interest. That being said, I will gladly continue to sponsor our community events. Like last year, I’ll be sponsoring donuts and coffee for our upcoming 4th of July bike parade. It’s my token of appreciation to our wonderful neighborhood! I apologize for being back and forth, but as a sponsor, I wanted to be careful with this decision. I didn’t want to break any of your confidence and trust since I’m a sitting Board Member. Since we rarely have any sponsors for our events, our Board will continue to create paths and a process to encourage more sponsors. Stay tuned. This Memorial Day weekend brings many of us to reflect on those who passed serving our country with dignity and honor. I’m the proud son of a Combat Navy Vietnam Vet. Both of my Grandfathers also served in the U.S. Navy during World War II. In fact, my Grandpa Schaaf’s ship, the USS Lexington, departed Honolulu days before the bombing of Pearl Harbor. I’m so thankful my Grandpa escaped before the Pearl Harbor tragedy. This weekend, please fly your USA flags and thank your fellow TrailMark veterans for their heroic service to our beautiful country. A heart filled thanks to our HOA Treasurer, Phil Kinney, who served in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War. Enjoy the time with your families this Memorial Day weekend, and thank our vets for your freedom!! Respectfully, Ken Colaizzi, President, TrailMark HOA, Littleton, CO 80127, president@trailmarkhoa.org, https://www.trailmark.org
Family Photo Day is back!
We have 3 amazing resident photographers offering 3 amazing opportunities to get a free family portrait taken in our beautiful neighborhood. Sign up for ONE time slot and then bring your family for one free family pose. If you like the result, please consider using them for a full session in the future with your family. Hurry, there are only 4 family slots per 30-minute block. Arrive early in your time slot and be the first in line. Wait time should be no more than 25 minutes. SIGN UP HERE
Posted May 27, 2023
Letter from the President about HOA Due Date
May 21, 2023 – Dear TrailMark Residents, As mentioned at the May 9th HOA Meeting, the HOA Board has graciously extended the Quarter 2 assessment due date from April 30th to May 31st due to the recent change in management companies. The Board wanted to make sure no residents were left behind in the transition. All 799 homeowner’s HOA dues are DUE no later than May 31st, 2023. We hung a banner at the front monument today to remind those of you who haven’t paid, to please make sure to get your HOA dues paid on time. Unfortunately, if your HOA dues are not paid by May 31st, then Westwind Management Group will have to begin the delinquent notices and follow the strict rules of House Bill 1137. The new House Bill 1137 is very expensive for homeowners who fail to pay their dues on time. Late fees and interest charges can far exceed your $135 quarterly dues due to House Bill 1137. Board Members do not wish to see any of our residents go through the torture of the delinquent notice process. So we are attempting to notify all residents with one last friendly reminder to please pay your HOA dues before May 31st, 2023. Our goal is to have no delinquent notices! If you need to contact the HOA Management Company to see if you have an outstanding balance, please use the contact information below to reach Westwind Management Group: 720-756-3187, trailmark@westwindmanagement.com. Sincerely, Ken Colaizzi, President, TrailMark HOA, Littleton, CO 80127, president@trailmarkhoa.org, https://www.trailmark.org
A Letter from the President regarding Sponsorships
May 18, 2023 – Dear TrailMark Residents, At our May 9th HOA Meeting, concerns were raised regarding Board Members and Committee Members sponsoring events in TrailMark was a bad look. The Board assured residents attending the meeting that we would take a closer look at this concern and try to come up with some definitive points at our next scheduled HOA Meeting on July 11th. By no means do Board Members, or Committee members, want to feel like they are personally crossing the line or causing a conflict of interest. Many of you know that I, personally, have sponsored many of the events as a way to help our neighborhood. However, after giving some strong consideration to the concerns raised, I have informed the HOA Board, and the Social Committee, that I will no longer sponsor events as long as I’m a sitting member to our HOA Board. I feel that I cannot risk or jeopardize my character, my business, my family, and especially my role as your President to the HOA. I’m very disappointed that it has come to this, but I feel stepping back will help alleviate any doubts or lack of trust residents may have of a Board Member being a sponsor. When I am no longer on the HOA Board, I will definitely revisit this decision, and welcome the opportunity to help sponsor our community events. In the meantime, the Board will look further into a possible policy regarding sponsorships. Unfortunately, for the past several years, we rarely get any sponsors stepping up to help pay for any portion of the events. So, if you, or your business, would like to help sponsor an upcoming event like: the 4th of July Bike Parade, Pirates Cove, National Night Out, the August 20th concert, Night at the Lights at the Botanic Gardens, or our Holiday Light Parade, please email our Social Committee Liaison, Carole Brooks at vp@trailmarkhoa.org, and our Social Committee Chair, Lori Ross, at rosslori1914@gmail.com. Sponsorships help keep the costs of our events to a minimum. For instance, if a sponsor steps up and says, “I will pay the $300 towards the donuts at the 4th of July event,” then that is $300 that the Social Committee doesn’t have to spend. Any way the HOA can save the association money and defray costs, the Board enthusiastically welcomes sponsors becoming active in TrailMark. In conclusion, our Board wants to be transparent and give you the facts of this ongoing discussion. Our Board will continue to be visible and active at all of the scheduled social events. Our Board Members love TrailMark just as much as all of you do! We all look forward to seeing you at the upcoming 4th of July Bike Parade. Many thanks, Ken Colaizzi, President, TrailMark HOA, Littleton, CO 80127, president@trailmarkhoa.org, https://www.trailmark.org
CAC News
CAC happily announces several neighborhood projects! Xeriscape enhancements will be made along TrailMark Parkway to refresh areas where shrubs have been removed over the past couple of years. This also includes a redesign of the monument at the northwest corner of TrailMark Parkway at Flower, and a refreshing of the wing fencing at the northwest corner at Dover and TrailMark Parkway! Special thanks to PENE YERIGAN who facilitated the recent purchases and re-plantings of monument corners throughout the neighborhood!!!!!!!
Posted May 18, 2023
Ladies Hiking group in TrailMark
Wednesdays at 7:30am around neighborhood, Fridays at 9am around neighborhood, Sundays 1/month drive to local spot (check TrailMark calendar). Meet at TrailMark Park playground (except Sunday monthly excursions). Plan ~2 hours for weekdays. Come as you can! Katie McCam and Karen Blaschke will be there as much as possible, weather permitting. More information: https://www.facebook.com/groups/trailmarkladieshiking. Dates/times subject to change. Check TrailMark calendar for updates. (Not affiliated with the HOA)
Posted May 17, 2023
TMMD REGULAR MEETING
Tuesday, May 16th, 6:30 pm, ZOOM Meeting: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/83885879883? pwd=a2FMTC8vMkVad3cyR09pV1c3d2t1UT09 or CALL IN: +1-720-707-2699 Meeting ID: 838 8587 9883, Passcode: 096538
Wildfire Community Preparedness
South Metro Fire Rescue encourages people and organizations to take action to raise awareness of wildfires so that people can improve the safety of their homes and communities. Not Sure Where to Start? We have created a self-guided survey to help you determine the level of wildfire risk for your home. It only takes a few minutes to complete and is a great place to start. Home Risk Assessment – Reverse 9-1-1 – This will notify you of emergencies and natural or man-made disasters, such as missing persons, law enforcement activity, evacuation notices, and more. Reverse 911 Jefferson County – Defending the Home Ignition Zone – 1 – Create a defensible space, 2 – Keep rain gutters clear of leaves and pine needles, 3 – Do not use the area on or under decks for storage, 4 – Rake up pine needles and leaves, 5 – Use fire-resistant landscaping, 6 – Keep grasses mowed to a maximum height of four inches, 7 – Address is clearly marked and well-lit at night, 8 – Prune lower branches. Learn More About the Home Ignition Zone – Why Focus on Wildfire? Wildfires have become an increasingly common occurrence in many parts of the world, and Colorado is no exception. While most people tend to associate wildfires with remote forests or grasslands, the truth is that they can pose a significant threat to urban areas as well. In fact, urban areas in Colorado are particularly vulnerable to wildfires due to a combination of factors such as dry weather, high winds, and a significant amount of nearby vegetation. Therefore it’s important to prepare for wildfire in urban Colorado areas. Wildfires can spread quickly, and people who are caught in their path may not have enough time to evacuate. However, by preparing for wildfire, you can ensure that you and your loved ones know what to do in the event of an emergency. Being prepared includes having an emergency plan in place and practicing your plan. South Metro Fire Rescue prepares for wildfires by providing ongoing training for our highly skilled firefighters. We have state-of-the-art equipment and technology, strong partnerships with other agencies, and a comprehensive emergency response plan. We also focus on community education and outreach. We are honored to be a part of your emergency plan!
Posted May 15, 2023
Happy Mother’s Day!
May 14, 2023 – Dear TrailMark Mothers, Our HOA Board would like to extend a very Happy Mother’s Day to all of our TrailMark Moms. Raising your kids here in TrailMark is a gift in itself – we sure appreciate all you Moms! Hopefully, your families spoil you today and make your day special – you deserve it. Happy Mother’s Day, Ken Colaizzi, President, TrailMark HOA, Littleton, CO 80127, president@trailmarkhoa.org, https://www.trailmark.org
A new fitness activities group in TrailMark
TrailMark Fit – https://www.trailmarkfit.com/. Walk • Run • Bike • Sweat • Yoga. This new fitness website was kick-started by two TrailMark residents in hopes that it’ll become a place where neighbors can meet up, enjoy the beautiful outdoors around us, and get to know each other. Dates/times subject to change. Check TrailMark calendar for updates. (Not affiliated with the HOA)
Posted May 10, 2023
Letter from the President about the Common Area Committee
May 6, 2023 – Dear TrailMark Residents, The HOA Board would like to extend the biggest hug of gratitude to the volunteers on our Common Area Committee (CAC). For several years, CAC Chair Mary Kreeger has been working with her committee on dressing up the common areas of TrailMark. This morning the CAC volunteers were hard at work planting new plants at the front of the neighborhood on the north side of the entrance. Several homeowners honked their horns and thanked these volunteers for adding some more beauty to our front entrance. The Board has recently approved a couple more recommended projects from the CAC that need some attention. One of those projects will be adding some needed landscape to shield the recent HOA shed that was built by the fire station. Thank you to all of the CAC volunteers for not only planting beautiful plants, but planning and adding the finishing touches to our gorgeous neighborhood. The Board sincerely appreciates each of your commitments and dedication to better TrailMark. Respectfully, Ken Colaizzi, President, TrailMark HOA, Littleton, CO 80127, president@trailmarkhoa.org, https://www.trailmark.org
CAC to refresh the north bed
May 6th (and May 7th, if necessary) the Common Area Committee will be refreshing the north bed by the TrailMark entrance, as well as various monument corners. Grab a shovel (NOT SNOW) and join the fun! For those who are available, meet at 10:00 am Saturday morning by the fire station. Please BYO shovel & gloves!!!! Many thanks! CAC
NOTICE OF CANCELATION OF ELECTION
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN by the TrailMark Metropolitan District, Jefferson County, Colorado, that at the close of business on the sixty-third day before the election, there were not more candidates for director than offices to be filled, including candidates filing affidavits of intent to be write-in candidates; therefore, the election to be held on May 2, 2023 is hereby canceled pursuant to section 1-13.5-513 (1), C.R.S The following candidates are hereby declared elected: Richard Handley – 2 Year Term Until 2025, Jeffrey T. McBroom – 4 Year Term Until 2027, Vacancy – 4 Year Term Until 2027. /s/ Sue Blair, Designated Election Official. Contact Person for the District:, Sue Blair, Designated Election Official, Community Resource Services, 7995 E. Prentice Avenue, Suite 103E, Greenwood Village, CO 80111, 303.381.4960 (voice), 303.381.4961 (fax), sblair@crsofcolorado.com. Publish in: The Littleton Independent; Publish on: March 26, 2023 (One Time Only)
Split Rail Fence Painting to begin
The annual split rail fence painting in Filings 1 and 5 is set to begin with weather cooperating. Please be mindful of your pets when the vendor is performing the work! Also, please remove any overgrown vegetation that has grown through the fence for work to be completed thoroughly. All exterior wiring is also to be removed as the wire is to be placed on the interior of the fencing. Lastly, this painting is only for the exterior of the fence. If you desire a proposal for interior fence painting, please contact Greg Gantner directly – gantnerphoto@msn.com
Posted May 1, 2023
From the Design Review Committee (DRC)
FENCES: With the recent high winds, many TrailMark fences were blown over and/or weakened. All fences should routinely be checked for sturdiness and/or need for repair or replacement. A reminder: Per our CCRs, if you are replacing, repairing, and/or staining your fences, a request to the DRC is required prior to project start. Requests should include: a plot plan or property drawing showing what fences and/or gates are being replaced, the fence design, and the stain color. Replacement fences will be built like-for-like in accordance with the TrailMark Design Guidelines, paragraph C.8., and exhibits #2 & 3 – Standard 4’ Solid Cedar Fence, page 24. Guidelines are posted on the TrailMark website under HOA Documents and Forms. Due to community aesthetics, TrailMark no longer allows the untreated finish and has approved color options considered most compatible with the privacy fencing along TrailMark Parkway and Independence Street. These colors blend throughout the community and enhance our overall appearance: Sherwin Williams (or comparable) WoodScapes Semi-Transparent Stain (has slight pigmentation for increased protection): SW3504 Woodridge, SW3522 Banyan Brown, “TrailMark Fence Fawn’ (same as HOA perimeter fencing). A completed Home Improvement Request form, Yard Access form, and all supplemental information, i.e., brochures, plot plans/yard diagrams, etc., must be received by the management company not later than 12:00 noon, the Friday prior to the DRC meeting. Send to: TrailMark@westwindmanagement.com. Documents must be signed and dated. EXTERIOR PAINT PROJECTS: Physical paint color samples/chips are required if one selects paint colors that are not pre-approved, as in our paint sample book. Approved color schemes are posted here – EXTERIOR PAINT CHART. Scanned and/or monitor representations have proven unreliable in determining whether a paint scheme is appropriate for the TrailMark community. Each paint chip must be annotated with the specific area to be painted (siding, fascia, trim, exposed beams, etc.). Place in a sealed envelope with the homeowner’s name and address clearly written on the envelope. All other project documents will be forwarded to the management company. For homeowner convenience, paint chips may be dropped off at 9718 S Johnson Way. Paint Sample Book: Homeowners may review the paint sample books which are available through our management company by calling or sending an email to trailmark@westwindmanagement.com. Request for Additional Information/Denied Requests: DRC requests returned to homeowners for additional project information and/or denied requests will be reviewed during a following, normal review session. Notice of Completion: Once project approval is obtained and home improvements are completed, homeowners are required to submit the Home Improvement Notice of Completion to the management company. Emergency Requests: Valid emergency requests will be reviewed as needed. Our working emergency definition: A serious, unexpected and often dangerous situation requiring immediate action to repair or replace. For example: A damaged, inoperable garage door that requires repair/replacement. A damaged roof, that, as the result of a natural event such as high winds, is at risk of leaking, requiring immediate full or partial replacement. Immediate need for Installation of a handicapped railing. A broken window that places a resident at risk due to potential shattering and/or unwanted entry. For questions regarding exterior project request requirements, to review the TrailMark Exterior Color Scheme books (which include paint chips), and/or other DRC related issues, please contact the management company at trailmark@westwindmanagement.com. Please Note: All documents submitted to the DRC may be submitted via mail, email, or fax: TrailMark Homeowners Association, Inc. c/o Westwind Management Group, 27 Inverness Drive East, Englewood, CO 80112, 720-756-3187 Office, 303-369-0007 Fax, TrailMark@westwindmanagement.com
Posted May 1, 2023
TrailMark Monthly Newsletter
The May issue of the TRAILMARK NEWSLETTER has been emailed out to the TrailMark community. It can be viewed online at: https://www.trailmark.org/newsletter.html. If you didn’t receive your email copy, please sign up here to join the email list: https://www.trailmark.org/email-sign-up.html. If you are signed up and still did not receive your issue, please email the communications committee at: communications@trailmarkhoa.org. Photo by Dave Soule
Letter from the President – GFL Trash Update
April 25, 2023 – Dear TrailMark Residents, On behalf of the TrailMark HOA Board, I’d like to personally provide an update and some clarification regarding the post over the weekend about GFL’s “proposed” new trash policies. The Board heard from several residents regarding questions, complaints, and compliments (believe it or not). In lieu of an FAQ page, the TrailMark HOA Board would like to use this letter to the community to give all residents an accurate and transparent view of the changes that have transpired since posting the forms to request a new trash can and/or recycle can. If your neighbors are not on social media, please share these details with them too. In case you don’t know, our trash contract, regardless of service provider, eats up approximately 50% of our assessments that we collect from quarterly HOA dues. Unfortunately, trash companies have had to raise their costs over the years to cover inflation, rising fuel costs, insurance, and wages. With this being our largest contract, and one of our most important vendors because it ultimately services all residents, we take this very seriously. The Board has had some difficult conversations with GFL over the weekend and all day yesterday. Our Board informed GFL that with all of our signed contracts, we hold each vendor accountable to what is written in the signed agreement. In other words, our Board was expressing to GFL that we will not authorize any modifications to our current signed agreement that will indirectly affect our homeowners, and our services. For example, we heard back from GFL yesterday regarding their new “proposed policies,” that they were not going to allow any of our residents to continue using their Alpine cans. Our Board requested GFL stickers for all residents to cover up the Alpine logo, and that was even denied. The TrailMark HOA Board could not accept this answer, or this decision. Furthermore, the TrailMark HOA Board did not like the attempt to modify our agreement to charge homeowners $5 per month for an extra trash can, and $3 per month for an extra recycle can for no specified end date. For clarity, the TrailMark HOA is the customer, not each individual homeowner. It was critical to our Board that our residents were not going to be charged an additional fee over and beyond what our 799 homes contractually pay GFL every single month through the TrailMark HOA. So, after further review of scrutinizing every word in our current GFL contract, our TrailMark HOA Board gave notice to GFL that we could not accept their radical changes as we felt it was a harm to our community, and to our services. This being said, we will have our Communications Director remove the online form to request a free trash can and a free recycle can, because our HOA Board cannot agree to these terms with GFL. Please do not expect a free trash can or recycle can if you completed the form. In addition, please discard the advertised GFL changes taking place on July 5th, because our Board doesn’t approve them. Please disregard emailing forms to trailmarkbins@gmail.com. Our Board simply feels that these new GFL policies are not fair. The TrailMark HOA Board continues working to insure that the garbage and recycle collection function is performed in the most efficient, and most cost effective manner possible while simultaneously meeting the unique requirements of our beautiful community. In the meantime, Tuesday trash days will still be business as usual. Our Board strongly requests that each homeowner strictly comply and adhere to the TrailMark trash policy from July 2019, https://www.trailmark.org/uploads/1/4/2/0/142002170/hoa_trashpolicy_20190713.pdf. The TrailMark trash policy was created to insure that your trash and recycle will be picked up on a weekly basis. The trash policy also protects other neighbors from picking up your loose trash from the wind or an animal, and protects the trash collector from lifting bags and boxes that can be way too heavy at times. Notice how the TrailMark trash policy doesn’t define the amount of trash cans. Most folks use one trash can and one recycle can (which is what is contractually agreed). Every now and then, some homeowners use two trash cans and one recycle can. Usually, the trash collector picks these up to be nice. Please be considerate and do not abuse the amount of trash cans. Leaving multiple trash cans out on a weekly basis is an example of abusing the service. Abusing the amount of trash only raises our rates in the end, and none of us want to see that. GFL and the TrailMark HOA board agree that no trash bags or loose trash should be left in the street under any circumstances. Please take some time to review the TrailMark trash policy. All trash needs to be at the curb by 7:00 am! After driving the neighborhood for the past several weeks on trash days, I can attest that most residents have a trash and/or recycle bin that will work with the armature that assists the trash collector with efficiency and safety. At this time, please continue to use the trash and recycle containers that you currently have been using. Again, we are trying to make Tuesday trash days, business as usual. Thank our trash collector when you can – they appreciate kindness. Our Board hopes that these questions answer and extinguish any confusion that this may have caused over the weekend. For full disclosure, the GFL contract expires in August of 2024. As with all of our contracts, the TrailMark HOA Board is entertaining negotiations not only with GFL, but also with other trash companies who can meet the TrailMark HOA standards in the most cost efficient means possible. If you have any further questions, please do not hesitate to email the Board at trailmark@westwindmanagement.com. I also personally invite you to join our upcoming HOA meeting on May 9th, at 6:00 p.m. at the Fire Station. Thank you for reading this lengthy explanation. The TrailMark HOA Board feels this is a very important issue, and wanted to communicate all of the facts to each resident. Sincerely, Ken Colaizzi, President, TrailMark HOA, Littleton, CO 80127, president@trailmarkhoa.org, https://www.trailmark.org
TrailMark HOA & GFL Trash and Recycle Bin distribution
UPDATE 4/25/23: Please disregard the advertised GFL changes taking place on July 5th, because our Board doesn’t approve them. The form has been removed from the website. Please disregard emailing forms to trailmarkbins@gmail.com. SPRING 2023 – TRAILMARK SINGLE-FAMILY DETACHED HOMES – A. Effective July 5th, 2023 (because of the July 4th holiday), GFL will only pick up trash and recycle items that are inside one GFL-provided 96-gallon trash container and one GFL-provided 96-gallon recycle container per address and at the curb by 7:00 am. B. GFL will deliver one FREE 96-gallon trash container to each TrailMark address that doesn’t already have one. If the address needs one, please fill out the form. C. GFL will deliver one FREE 96-gallon recycle container to each TrailMark address that doesn’t already have one. If the address needs one, please fill out the form. D. TrailMark homeowners who need the FREE trash container and/or FREE recycle container must submit their form by May 31st, 2023. E. This gives GFL the entire month of June 2023 to deliver the requested FREE trash and recycle bins. F. All requested FREE trash cans and FREE recycle cans will be delivered to TrailMark homeowners by June 30th, 2023. Containers remain the property of GFL and should not be removed from the address if a homeowner moves. G. Once GFL approves this plan, TrailMark HOA will immediately publicize the plan and the form for homeowners to request the FREE containers. H. There will be no charge to the TrailMark HOA, or our residents for the FREE trash or recycle containers, if requested by May 31st, 2023. I. If a TrailMark homeowner does not complete the request form below by May 31st, 2023 or needs additional containers/service after receiving their initial FREE containers, they must call GFL Customer Service at 303-744-9881 to request containers. Trash is $5/month, recycling is $3/month, and homeowners will be billed directly. J. TrailMark residents can dispose of non-GFL trash and recycling containers on trash day by taping a piece of paper to them and clearly writing “Remove as Trash” on them. This will be FREE of charge, and residents will have two service days to put out unwanted containers. STAR CANYON PATIO HOMES & CONDOMINIUMS – A. Effective July 5th, 2023 (because of the July 4th holiday), GFL will only pick up trash and recycle items that are inside one GFL-provided 65-gallon trash container and one GFL-provided 65-gallon recycle container per address and at the curb by 7:00am. (FYI, previous 96 gal GFL bins will still be picked up if that’s what you currently have). B. GFL will deliver one FREE 65-gallon trash container to each Star Canyon address that doesn’t already have one. If the address needs one, please fill out the form. C. GFL will deliver one FREE 65-gallon recycle container to each Star Canyon address that doesn’t already have one. If the address needs one, please fill out the form. D. Star Canyon homeowners who need the FREE trash container and/or FREE recycle container must submit their form by May 31st, 2023. E. This gives GFL the entire month of June 2023 to deliver the requested FREE trash and recycle bins. F. All requested FREE trash cans and FREE recycle cans will be delivered to Star Canyon homeowners by June 30th, 2023. Containers remain the property of GFL and should not be removed from the address if a homeowner moves. G. Once GFL approves this plan, TrailMark HOA will immediately publicize the plan and the form for homeowners to request the FREE containers. H. There will be no charge to the TrailMark HOA, or our residents for the FREE trash or recycle containers, if requested by May 31st, 2023. I. If a Star Canyon homeowner does not complete the request form by May 31st, 2023 or needs additional containers/service after receiving their initial FREE containers, they must call GFL Customer Service at 303-744-9881 to request containers. Trash is $5/month, recycling is $3/month, and homeowners will be billed directly. J. Star Canyon residents can dispose of non-GFL trash and recycling containers on trash day by taping a piece of paper to them and clearly writing “Remove as Trash” on them. This will be FREE of charge, and residents will have two service days to put out unwanted containers. Click on button to download form, fill it out on your device, save it and email it to [address removed]. Questions and comments should be directed to trailmark@westwindmanagement.com.
TrailMark Concert in the Park
Sunday, August 20, 2023, 5:30-7:30 pm at Hogback Hill Park. Sometimes we have to cut down on a good thing. Unfortunately, the HOA budget currently allows for one concert this year. But it is going to be the BEST concert ever! So break out the picnic baskets, lawn chairs and outdoor blankets and settle in! Or, enjoy food available to purchase from the food trucks. Check them out! Homesliceband.com
Posted April 23, 2023
Drug Take-Back Day
Keep them safe. Clean them out. Take them back. Turn in unneeded medication for safe disposal. On Saturday, April 22, 2023 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., the Littleton Police Department (LPD) and the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) will provide the public the opportunity to prevent pill abuse and theft by ridding homes of potentially dangerous expired, unused and unwanted prescription drugs. Information: https://www.police.littletonco.gov/Get-Involved/Drug-Take-Back-Day
A Letter from our HOA President
4/12 UPDATE: As of this morning, the chain link fence has now been removed by South Suburban Parks and Recreation in TrailMark Park. April 11, 2023. Dear TrailMark Residents, This afternoon, I came home to an unfortunate surprise to see South Suburban Parks and Recreation (SSPR) installing a six foot chain link fence in two portions of TrailMark Park. I’ve tried to make contact with the authorities of SSPR for an explanation, but have not received any return communication as of yet. As Board Members, and residents, we do not care for the look of this newly installed chain link fence either. I stopped and asked a SSPR worker why they were installing a chain link fence and the employee explained to me that he was fulfilling his work order to put up the chain link fence. The TrailMark HOA Board would like to remind residents that the TrailMark HOA has no purview or authority of what SSPR does within TrailMark Park. We would also like to remind residents that if you have complaints regarding this newly installed chain link fence at TrailMark Park, we request that you voice your concerns to the property owner, and the installer of the chain link fence, South Suburban Parks and Recreation. Here are some names, phone numbers, and email addresses of those in charge at South Suburban Parks and Recreation that you can voice your concerns. Andy Jennings, Director of Parks for South Suburban Parks and Rec, ajennings@ssprd.org, 303-795-9856. Ken Lucas, SSPRD Board Member (Treasurer), klucas@ssprd.org. Dave Lawful, SSPRD Board Member (Vice Chair), dlawful@ssprd.org. Pete Barrett, SSPRD Board Member (Secretary), pbarrett@ssprd.org. Susan Pye, SSPRD Board Member (Chair), spye@ssprd.org. Jim Taylor, SSPRD Board Member (Asst Secretary/ Treasurer), jtaylor@ssprd.org. Thank you, Ken Colaizzi, President, TrailMark HOA, Littleton, CO 80127, president@trailmarkhoa.org, https://www.trailmark.org
TrailMark Easter Egg Hunt photos
Thank you for attending our very popular Easter egg hunt at Hogback Hill Park. It was a HUGE and successful turn out today! Many volunteers from the Social Committee, and several residents volunteered to pitch in and make sure kids in TrailMark were able to enjoy this annual festive tradition. A special thanks to Chick-Fil-A from the South Kipling and Aspen Grove locations for donating the coffee, creamers, napkins and plates. And to Secure-All Security Doors for providing the filled Easter eggs and donuts. Also, thanks to the Chick-Fil-A cow, and the Easter Bunny of course! All of the coffee, donuts, and Chick-Fil-A were eaten faster than you can say Easter Bunny. It was great seeing families capturing photos of these precious moments. TrailMark is such a great neighborhood. On behalf of our entire HOA Board, we wish all of you and your loved ones, a very Happy Easter! Please send your images for posting to communications@trailmarkhoa.org. Photos by Phil Kinney, Linda Jagiello, Lori Ross, Carole Brooks, Gabrielle Handley, Ken Colaizzi, and Kelly McCormick. If there is an image that you would like taken down, please contact communications@trailmarkhoa.org.
Posted April 8, 2023
Items left behind at the Easter Egg Hunt event
These items will be waiting for pick-up by their owners on the porch at 9946 W Baden Drive,
phone 303-979-5581.
Posted April 8, 2023
TrailMark Easter Egg Hunt
Tomorrow, Saturday, April 8th, 2023, Hogback Hill Park, 9:00 a.m. sharp. All Residents invited 🐰 Parents, in order to have a fun and enjoyable egg hunt, please consider the following… A special baby/toddler area will be created for the smaller children. This is strictly for early walkers. The egg hunt will begin promptly at 9 am today. A selfie station will be available for those wanting a family pic. The Easter Bunny and Chick-Fil-A cow will be available for pictures at this location (right off the Hogback Hill Parking lot). Please accompany your children to the park so that you can supervise them, keeping it fair and safe for everyone. We have a limited number of volunteers and simply can’t oversee unaccompanied children. Unruly behavior will result in unaccompanied children being asked to leave. Older kids (middle and high schoolers) are welcome to assist very young children or simply hang out by the donuts and snacks. Please come with a small basket or bag to hold your child’s hunted eggs. Grocery bags will be on hand should anyone need one. Please instruct your children to take no more than a single, standard sized grocery bag’s worth of eggs per child. No pillow cases, please. If you have a nimble child, ask them to run to the farthest eggs so that slower runners can have access to nearby eggs. Once their bags are full, encourage them to help younger kids find eggs. Thank you for your cooperation to make today special!
EASTER EGG HUNT
Saturday, April 8th, 9:00 am, Hogback Hill Park. All ages welcome! Bring your kiddos and their Easter egg baskets. Coffee, light snacks and donuts will be on hand, as well as a visit from the Easter Bunny and the Chick-fil-A Baby Cow!!! Special thanks to Secure-All Security Doors for providing the filled Easter eggs and donuts. We are in need of volunteers to help set up the event, maintain the food and coffee stations, and help with cleanup. Please reach out to social@trailmarkhoa.org to volunteer. Photo by Kara Brautigam
From the HOA President
TrailMark Kiddos, Look what I just saw at the front of the neighborhood! It looks like TrailMark is going to have a special visitor on Saturday, April 8th at 9:00 a.m. Parents please bring your kids to see the Easter Bunny🐰! Take some pictures with the Easter Bunny and find some Easter Eggs. How exciting! 6 more sleeps, 🐰
Wanted: Easter Bunny Helpers
TrailMark’s Easter Bunny needs helpers to hide prefilled Easter eggs on April 8, 2023. Helpers should arrive at 8 am for set up, and those willing to stay afterwards to help with cleanup would be greatly appreciated. Just show up to volunteer. Contact the social committee at social@trailmarkhoa.org with any questions.
A special visitor is “hopping” into TrailMark this Saturday!
April 5, 2023 – Dear TrailMark Residents, The TrailMark HOA Board is pleased to announce that our TrailMark Social Committee has planned for a special visitor to “HOP” into TrailMark this Saturday, April 8th, at 9:00 a.m. at Hogback Hill Park. The Easter Egg Hunt starts at 9:00 a.m. sharp! We don’t want kids to miss out on the surprise-filled Easter eggs. Please arrive a few minutes early to enjoy the Spring fun. Come visit with your neighbors and enjoy some coffee, donuts, and Chick-Fil-A. This is a fun Spring event for all ages! Take some time to take a photo of your kids, or your entire family with the Easter Bunny. Here’s an example of a family photo from last year. We all look forward to seeing you this Saturday, April 8th. Hey kids, 3 more sleeps!! Happy Easter, Ken Colaizzi, President, TrailMark HOA, Littleton, CO 80127, president@trailmarkhoa.org, https://www.trailmark.org. Photo by Phil Kinney
Volunteer needed for Communications Committee
UPDATE: POSITION FILLED – The Communications Committee is looking for someone to help our current bulletin board manager post the monthly newsletter to our two outdoor bulletin boards. Duties also include helping to proofread the monthly newsletter before it is sent out to the TrailMark community (optional). Please email communications@trailmarkhoa.org.
Posted April 1, 2023
Fire Hydrants: Homeowners are responsible for maintaining clearance
Questions have surfaced to the Design Review Committee (DRC) about fire hydrant maintenance. South Metro Fire and Rescue provided the following information to assist homeowners. While homeowners are planning their spring projects, now is a good time to remind those with fire hydrants adjacent to their property of the requirements for the upkeep of these critical infrastructure components. The City and South Metro Fire are responsible for the maintenance of the fire hydrants. The workers who maintain the hydrants need to walk, probe, and possibly dig around the hydrant, so any plants there are likely to be routinely damaged. What is vitally important is that the fire hydrant is not obscured from view, nor access blocked, in any way. Homeowners are responsible for maintaining a clearance of three (3) feet around the fire hydrant. This means that fall leaves and other debris that collect near the hydrant must be maintained. This does not mean that nothing can be planted in this area. If you have a fire hydrant on your property, you may landscape around it if there is three (3) feet of clearance and it can be easily accessed in the event of a fire and for maintenance. Tips for maintaining the area around the hydrant: • Plants need to be low-growing so they won’t obscure visibility or access to the hydrant in any way. • While lawn grass stands up best to maintenance treatment, plants suitable for planting between pathway paving stones also tolerate some foot traffic. Grass needs to be mowed short. • River rock and/or mulch are suitable in the three (3) foot area as long as they are well maintained. • Shrubs, trees, fruit, vegetables, and flowers are not to be planted inside the three (3) foot area. If you have any questions about hydrant maintenance, please contact South Metro Fire Rescue at the Non-Emergency, 24/7 Dispatch number: 720-258-8911
Posted April 1, 2023
Front and back yard improvements require approval
From the Design Review Committee (DRC) – HOMEOWNERS: Although chilly temperatures persist, now is the perfect time to consider your spring and summer exterior home improvement projects – decks/patios, landscaping, painting, roofing, windows, etc. As a gentle reminder, per Article 4, “TrailMark’s Declaration of Covenants, Conditions and Restrictions,” Design Review Committee (DRC) review and approval is required for exterior property improvements, prior to project initiation. Please submit your completed Home Improvement Request Form and all project planning documents to trailmark@westwindmanagement.com, or mail to: TrailMark Homeowners Association, Inc., c/o Westwind Management Group, LLC, 27 Inverness Drive East, Englewood, CO 80112. The DRC reviews requests the 1st and 3rd week of every month. To ensure that your project receives a timely review, complete requests must be received not later than 12:00 noon the Friday prior to a scheduled DRC review week. 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 maintain a consistent, quality design expression by maintaining the original high prairie and foothills environment. By adhering to this philosophy, your request will receive a more expeditious review and approval. Worth Repeating: • All exterior property improvements require DRC Review and approval. The only exception is routine home maintenance/repairs that do not require DRC submission. Review the list at https://www.trailmark.org/uploads/3/9/0/8/39089355/repairs_not_requiring_drc_review.pdf. • 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. Thank you, TrailMark Design Review Committee (DRC), TrailMark HOA, designreview@trailmarkhoa.org, https://www.trailmark.org/hoa-documents-amp-forms.html
Posted April 1, 2023
HOA Assessments due April 1st
As a reminder, HOA Assessments are due April 1st. If you have any questions, please contact Westwind Management Group at TrailMark@westwindmanagement.com or 720-756-3187. TrailMark HOA Board
TrailMark Monthly Newsletter
The April issue of the TRAILMARK NEWSLETTER has been emailed out to the TrailMark community. It can be viewed online at: https://www.trailmark.org/newsletter.html. If you didn’t receive your email copy, please sign up here to join the email list: https://www.trailmark.org/email-sign-up.html. If you are signed up and still did not receive your issue, please email the communications committee at: communications@trailmarkhoa.org.
Letter regarding the Colorado State Parks Pass
The letter below is from our generous neighbor Deahna Visscher, who has been helping us get discounts with Colorado State Parks since 2017. A BIG THANK YOU, DEAHNA! PARK PASS REQUESTORS – I will NOT be doing the Bulk Park Pass Purchase this year because NOW the state is offering a prorated refund to you if you buy an Annual State Park Pass for those that have a gap before your vehicle registration is due. The prorated refund only applies to the full price park pass. However, I did the math, and it is still cheaper to go the prorated route. See example below. Example – $68.96 = Annual Park Pass + Vehicle Park Pass (minus 6 month prorate), * park pass that expires in May and vehicle is not due for registration until December [$80 + $29 – $39.96 (6 months)], $85 = Bulk Buy Pass + Pass with vehicle registration ($56 + $29). PARK PASS PRICES: Annual Park Pass = $80, Bulk Park Pass = $56 (no prorate), Vehicle Park Pass = $29, Prorate for Annual Park Pass = $6.66 per month. QUESTION: What if my $80-120 Annual State Park Pass is still valid when I’m eligible to buy a $29 Keep Colorado Wild Pass during my 2023 vehicle registration? ANSWER: CPW has approved refund options that will cover the time between when a current annual state park pass expires and when a vehicle registration is due. The refund is based on a flat prorated refund structure. The prorated amount will be based on the price of the original pass divided by 12 months and rounded up to the nearest dollar. A refund will not be granted for passes that were used for nine months or more. Residents will have 60 days after the Keep Colorado Wild Pass purchase date to file for a refund. Before you can request a refund, your Keep Colorado Wild Pass must be linked to a customer account on CPWshop.com. Follow the instructions outlined in the Keep Colorado Wild Pass – Link to CPWshop.com Guide. https://cpw.state.co.us/…/Keep-Colorado-Wild-Pass.aspx
Posted March 31, 2023
Artificial Turf/Grass Standard
The HOA Board has approved Artificial Turf/Grass Standard for TrailMark. The new standard provides the minimum requirements for installing artificial turf/grass and provides the specific information that must be submitted with an artificial turf/grass home improvement request. You can find the standard posted on the HOA website at https://www.trailmark.org/design-guidelines-table-of-contents.html. The installation of artificial turf/grass must meet all the standard requirements. Artificial turf is allowed only in back yards behind the wing fences. Front yard application is not allowed. The Design Review Committee (DRC) will review all complete home improvement requests. Should you have any questions, please direct them to designreview@trailmarkhoa.org.
Posted March 31, 2023
Colorado Household Medication and Sharps Takeback program
Safe disposal keeps meds from being misused or abused. It also helps protect Colorado’s precious environment and wildlife. The best way to get rid of household medications is to take them to the nearest secure collection box. Article with MAP OF TAKEBACK LOCATIONS - https://cdphe.colorado.gov/colorado-medication-take-back-program
Posted March 27, 2023
Paying your April 1st Assessment Fee
HOA Assessments are due April 1st. Homeowners are welcome to pay their $135 April 1st dues by sending a check to: TrailMark HOA c/o Westwind Management Group, P.O. Box 95854, Las Vegas NV 89193-5854. Or, to make an online payment, follow the instructions below. At the moment, there is no option to sign up for auto-pay. (Click on any image to enlarge it.) You should be receiving an email from Westwind Management prompting you to sign up for your online account. Click on the portal link (above the yellow field in the email) and create your login. Please note: The password that you create must have one of these characters, not just any character: ! ^ * ( ) If after creating your password you get stuck or receive an error message, log out and log back into the portal at westwindmanagement.com. For online payment choices, click on the E-Pay tab. Choose eCard to pay by credit card, or eCheck to pay by check. (eCard charges a 3% fee. eCheck has no fee.) Property Information should already be filled out for you (Management ID: 6975, Association ID: TMH). Fill in your individual account number (if needed), read the documents, check the box, and click on “Continue to Payment Information.” Fill in your payment information and follow the prompts. eCheck sample (left), eCard samples (below). If you have any questions, please contact Westwind Management Group at TrailMark@westwindmanagement.com or 720-756-3187.
Posted March 25, 2023
Split rail fence repairs and replacements
Attention TrailMark Filing 1 and Filing 5 residents: The TrailMark Metropolitan District (TMMD) will begin the annual fence repairs and replacements as soon as this week! Contractors will be replacing broken posts and rails that have been marked with white spray paint on split rail fencing that back to open space. Please remove any wires on the outside of the fencing. Also, please remove any overgrown landscaping growing through the fence. Following the post and rail replacements a paint contractor will paint the exterior side of the fencing. Lastly, please be mindful of your pets while the contractors are working on the fence! Thank you, TrailMark Metropolitan District
Posted March 24, 2023
A Few Updates from the HOA President
March 23, 2023 – Dear TrailMark Residents, Welcome to Spring! I think many of us are ready to see the snow disappear as we start seeing some tree buds bloom and flowers blossom. Our Board wanted to share with you a few updates that are underway. First, Westwind Management Group is our new management company as of February 24th. Westwind is still trying to get all residents to sign up with their data base. If you haven’t completed the Homeowner Information page, please email TrailMark@westwindmanagment.com so you can be added to all management company emails. In your email, please include your name, address, email, and phone number. Westwind plans on unveiling their portal in the days to come so residents can pay their HOA dues by ACH, or credit card. Until the portal gets released, homeowners are welcome to pay their $135 April 1st dues by sending a check to: TrailMark HOA, c/o Westwind Management Group, P.O. Box 95854, Las Vegas NV 89193-5854. Please include your name and TrailMark address, as account numbers are not yet available. Second, the Board wanted to inform all of the residents in Filing 1 and Filing 5, that the TrailMark Metro District has recently hired the contractor for the annual fence maintenance. If you see contractors working on the HOA / Metro District split rail fence, they are here to freshen up the look and condition of the fence. This is a difficult undertaking, so if you see the contractors, please tell them thank you for making our neighborhood shine. Third, the HOA Board understands that Spring weather brings out those outdoor projects that you’ve been planning while watching the snow fall. Please remember that all outdoor improvements to the front and back yard require DRC (Design Review Committee) approval. The DRC home improvement request form can be found on the website at https://www.trailmark.org/uploads/1/4/2/0/142002170/hoa_home_improvement_request_yd_access_202303.pdf. Fourth, The TrailMark Social Committee has informed our HOA Board that we have a special visitor “hopping” into TrailMark on Saturday, April 8th at 9:00 a.m. Please bring your kiddos to Hogback Hill Park for an Easter Egg hunt. Donuts, coffee, and Chick-Fil-A will be provided. Thank you to our Social Committee for planning such a fun event. On behalf of our entire HOA Board, we hope you and your family enjoy the Spring days to come. Enjoy our trails, parks, wildlife, and beauty that TrailMark rewards each of us with every single day. Many thanks, Ken Colaizzi, President, TrailMark HOA, Littleton, CO 80127, president@trailmarkhoa.org, https://www.trailmark.org. Photo by Deahna Visscher
Westwind Management Update – April 1st Assessments: Payments and Portal
March 22, 2023 – Dear TrailMark Homeowners, Thank you for your patience as Westwind Management has been reviewing the homeowner ledgers received from the previous management company. There is some unanticipated additional work which is being required in order to verify the balances we received. Therefore, the launch of the owner portal is delayed. We are working diligently to make sure balances are correct to avoid any inaccurate information being sent to you as the homeowner. Once the portal is ready, everyone will receive an email with your account number and link to the portal. For now, please mail your check for $135 to: TrailMark HOA, c/o Westwind Management Group, P.O. Box 95854, Las Vegas NV 89193-5854. Please include your name and TrailMark address, as account numbers are not yet available. For additional information, you may refer to the letter that was sent out earlier this year:
TrailMark Homeowners Association – Notice of New Management. Please email TrailMark@westwindmanagement.com, or call 720-756-3187 with further questions. Again, thank you for your patience. Westwind Management Group
Jefferson County Land Stewardship Series
Learning and Understanding – Our Land Stewardship Series is a collection of seminars for Jeffco residents that provide an understanding and appreciation for our lands and their ecological benefits. Coyote Country – Wednesday, March 15, 2023, 6:00-7:30 PM, Jeffco Open Space Building – Ponderosa Room, 700 Jefferson County Parkway, Golden. Whether you are concerned or curious about coyotes, you’ll want to attend this talk highlighting recent findings on coyote biology, ecology and behavior as it impacts Jeffco residents. Mary Ann Bonnell, JCOS Visitor Services Director will be our speaker. She has been instrumental in promoting coyote awareness in our region. Ages 16 and up. Registration is free but is required. We are not able to accommodate walk-ins. Register here: https://secure.rec1.com/CO/jefferson-county-open-space/catalog?filter=c2VhcmNoPTI0MDE3NTQ= Please note: When registering for an event you will need to first create an account. Once you have created your account, you will then be able to register for events. Registration for this program opens at 08:00 AM on 02/06/2023. https://www.jeffco.us/1986/Land-Stewardship-Series
TrailMark Neighborhood Meeting
Wednesday, March 15th, 6:00-7:15pm, Location: Homewood Suites by Hilton Denver – Littleton
7630 Shaffer Pkwy, Littleton, CO 80127. Proposed Project Location: Block: 001 Lot: 0010, Section: 10, Township: 6, Range: 69, Subdivision Name: CHATFIELD GREEN SUB FLG #5, Parcel ID (AIN): 69-104-10-011. Project Narrative: The proposed development consists of 35 single-family detached residences on the 7.68-acre parcel with a density of approximately 4.5 dwelling units per acre. Lot sizes are approximately 51-ft x 94-ft; houses are anticipated to have 40-ft x 63-ft building envelopes. Units are planned as ranch product ranging from 1,900 to 2,800 square feet with an upstairs bonus room option in two of the five planned floor plans. Each unit is anticipated with a minimum 2 bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms, and 2-car garage. Shea homes is hosting this meeting to inform the neighbors about the proposed project and encourage feedback. This is the ONLY chance you have as a TrailMark resident to attend this meeting and give your feedback. This is not an HOA project as the property belongs to Shea Homes. All inquiries and questions regarding this project need to be addressed to: Amy O’Brien, The Pachner Company, (303) 825-1671, amy@thepachnercompany.com, www.thepachnercompany.com
TRAILMARK NEIGHBORHOOD MEETING
Wednesday, March 15th, 6:00-7:15 pm, Homewood Suites by Hilton Denver – Littleton, 7630 Shaffer Pkwy, Littleton, CO 80127. Shea homes is hosting this meeting to inform the neighbors about the proposed project and encourage feedback. More information
HOA BOARD MEETING
Tuesday, March 14th, 6:00 pm, Fire Station 19 in TrailMark. Agenda. All are welcome.
Young residents help fill eggs for TrailMark’s upcoming Easter Egg Hunt
March 12, 2023 – The TrailMark HOA would like to give a special thank you to Sabrina Colaizzi, Domenic Colaizzi, and Callie Rochetti for stuffing 750 Easter Eggs for the upcoming Easter Egg Hunt on Saturday, April 8th at 9:00 a.m. There will now be 1,750 Easter Eggs for the kids to find at Hogback Hill Park. We look forward to a great traditional TrailMark Easter event! Please bring your kids to see the Easter Bunny on April 8th. See you soon, TrailMark HOA Board of Directors. Photo by Ken Colaizzi
Welcome, New Residents!
There is a web page that welcomes TrailMark’s incoming residents and offers essential information for a smooth transition. View it here.
Posted March 10, 2023
Colorado State Parks Pass
Colorado Vehicle Registration Renewal cards now offer the option of receiving a State Parks Pass (now the Keep Colorado Wild Pass) through your vehicle registration for $29. Because of this, discounted State Parks Passes are no longer offered in bulk through TrailMark resident Deahna Visscher. However, if 100 people show interest in getting a pass for the gap time before they register their cars, she will gladly do it one more time. Contact Deahna ASAP at 720-201-0311 or Deahna_Visscher@yahoo.com. (Many thanks to Deahna for once again helping the neighborhood!) Here’s why you might consider buying a pass through Deahna: Many State Parks passes will expire before the vehicle renewal notices arrive. So you may need to buy a new State Parks pass, and when your vehicle registration renews you can get a prorated refund through CPW. Again, please contact Deahna ASAP if you are interested. For questions and concerns about the State Parks Pass, please refer to the FAQ section of the Keep Colorado Wild Pass web page.
Posted March 10, 2023
LPCAAA Academy (Littleton Police Citizen Academy Alumni Association)
March 9, 2023 – Registration starts now! The next Citizen’s Academy, which is a precursor to CSV, starts in March. (A person must graduate from the Academy and join LPCAAA before they are eligible to take the CSV class.) This is an 11-12 week series of classes for the public to get a peek into the inner workings of our Littleton Police Department (LPD). Some of the topics: SWAT, crime scene investigations, DUI, traffic enforcement, Drugs and gangs, Victim Assistance, Ride-along with an officer, firearms simulator, meet the K-9 officer and much more. They occur Thursday nights at 6 pm and dinner is provided. Graduation is on the last night, and family and friends are invited. Participants must be 16 years or older, live or work within the Littleton city limits, or belong to a city-wide service club or organization. (For those who like to plan ahead: The next round of sessions will begin in September.) More info / Application: https://www.police.littletonco.gov/Get-Involved/Citizen-Academy. Recommendation: I just finished the Littleton Police Department’s Citizen’s Academy, and I can attest to the fact that it is incredibly informative and surprisingly a great deal of fun. Not only do the instructors take you through the workings of the LPD, but they also make themselves available, at all levels—from the streets to the Chief, to continually answering any questions and exploring any interests in depth. Their classes are not a “sell job” but rather an honest sharing of what they do and how they do it. If it was not enough that these classes are a lot of fun, they also feed you, every night, with great local business offerings! I encourage anyone, regardless of age, to take advantage of this great opportunity to once a week have your head filled with interesting things from these friendly professionals, who protect our Community. By the way, another outstanding detail is that there are no tests! William Kuenning, Secretary, TrailMark HOA Board
Seeking DRC Volunteers (Design Review Committee)
Interested in developing new TrailMark property standards, color schemes, and more? The DRC seeks volunteers to join this very important committee. Check out the Volunteer for the DRC page, and submit your interest in joining the DRC to
designreview@trailmarkhoa.org.
Posted March 8, 2023
Hildebrand Ranch Park: TrailMark Neighborhood Access
Background – The Park Rangers at Jefferson County Open Space (JCOS) have initiated an evaluation of access points into Hildebrand Ranch Park. The ability to close parks in emergency situations such as fire, extreme weather, or to protect natural resources in the case of muddy trails is more difficult when there are informal access points into the park. Currently the TrailMark neighborhood at Hildebrand Ranch Park (HRP) has: 1. Two informal access points Located on the west side of the neighborhood. 2. Two formal access points into Hildebrand Ranch Park on the perimeter of the neighborhood identified on the map below with a double arrow symbol. TrailMark Community Engagement – In partnership with South Suburban Parks and Recreation, JCOS conducted a detailed evaluation of the informal access points. Two periods of engagement with the TrailMark community were included in this evaluation to determine whether the two informal access points in the neighborhood should be formalized or closed. The first engagement was conducted in the form of a meeting with the TrailMark Homeowner’s Association (HOA). During this meeting, JCOS staff presented the concerns with informal access points and had an open conversation with members of the HOA. The response during this initial meeting was overwhelmingly opposed to the formalization of these access points. However during the two-week comment period after the HOA meeting, JCOS staff received numerous emails from neighborhood residents in favor of keeping the access points open. To understand the comprehensive sentiment of the neighborhood and present a more nuanced solution (see Map 1), JCOS staff conducted a second engagement period in November 2022. At this time, a proposed solution was presented to the community and comments were collected on this proposal during a two-week comment period. Neighbors were asked to provide input on the following items: 1. Preferred number of access points (if any). 2. Preferred location of access points (from the options provided). 3. New formalized trail along existing ranch road to HRP parking lot and Black Bear Trail. In total, JCOS received 85 responses via email during the comment period. Not all email responses included reference to all components of the proposed plan, so comments were cataloged accordingly. Below is a breakdown of the responses received: 1. 66% of respondents were in support of formalizing Access Point #1 (North). 2. 80% of respondents were in support of formalizing Access Point #2 (South). 3. 84% of respondents were in support of formalizing the two-track on the western neighborhood property line. 4. 73% of respondents were in support of formalizing two access points, as opposed to one or zero. Recommendations – Based on the information received from the community during the open comment period, JCOS will formalize Access Option #1 (North), Access Option #2 (South) and the two-track from the parking lot to Black Bear trail be formalized by JCOS. The existing informal access point on the northern end of the neighborhood will be closed. Formalization of the two access points will include the installation of a gate that could be locked in the event of park closures and the installation of a sign to show relevant JCOS information. The primary map for the park will also be updated to include the trail and access points, in the same way the existing access points are shown below in Map 2. Next Steps – The proposed improvements will be completed in the late summer of 2023. Immediate actions will include the closure of the northernmost informal access point. Until new access points are developed, residents may continue to use the existing informal access. Any map updates will occur after improvements are completed. Please direct questions and concerns to – Rachel Brenna at rbrenna@co.jefferson.co.us or Elizabeth Stoner at estoner@co.jefferson.co.us
Posted March 7, 2023
DRC Requests
The Design Review request form for exterior work is on the website and should be submitted to trailmark@westwindmanagement.com.
Posted March 1, 2023
TrailMark Monthly Newsletter
The March issue of the TRAILMARK NEWSLETTER has been emailed out to the TrailMark community. It can be viewed online at: https://www.trailmark.org/newsletter.html. If you didn’t receive your email copy, please sign up here to join the email list: https://www.trailmark.org/email-sign-up.html. If you are signed up and still did not receive your issue, please email the communications committee at: communications@trailmarkhoa.org. Photo by Andy Marquez
CALL FOR NOMINATIONS – TRAILMARK METROPOLITAN DISTRICT (TMMD)
TO WHOM IT MAY CONCERN, and particularly, to the eligible electors of the TRAILMARK METROPOLITAN DISTRICT (“District”) of Jefferson County, Colorado. NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the District will conduct a regular election on the 2nd day of May, 2023, between the hours of 7:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m. At that time, (2) two directors will be elected for a 4-year term expiring in May 2027, and (1) director will be elected for a 2-year term expiring in May 2025. In order to be a candidate for one of the director positions, a qualified individual must submit a Self-Nomination and Acceptance Form. Eligible electors of the District interested in serving on the Board of Directors may obtain a Self-Nomination and Acceptance form from the District’s Designated Election Official (DEO): Sue Blair, DEO, elections@crsofcolorado.com, Community Resource Services of Colorado, 7995 East Prentice Avenue, Suite 103E, Greenwood Village, CO 80111, Phone: 303-381-4960, Offices Hours: Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. The Self-Nomination and Acceptance Form must be returned to the Designated Election Official by 5:00 p.m. on Friday, February 24, 2023. The form can be emailed to elections@crsofcolorado.com. A Self-Nomination and Acceptance Form that is not sufficient may be amended once at any time before 3:00 p.m. on Friday, February 24, 2023. Earlier submittal is encouraged as the deadline will not permit correcting an insufficient form if received at 5:00 p.m. ‘Affidavit of Intent to be a Write-In-Candidate’ forms must be submitted to the office of the Designated Election Official by the close of business on Monday, February 27, 2023. NOTICE IS FURTHER GIVEN that an application for an absentee ballot may be filed with the Designated Election Official, at the contact information referenced above, no later than the close of business on Tuesday, April 25, 2023. TRAILMARK METROPOLITAN DISTRICT – Sue Blair, Designated Election Official
(2/27)
Management Company Transition – February 24th
Board termination of 4 Seasons Management Group – As mentioned at the January 10th HOA meeting, the TrailMark HOA Board has unanimously decided to terminate the 4 Seasons Management contract in order to protect our residents, our vendors, and our Board. We know transitions are difficult for homeowners but our Board feels that an immediate change is necessary due to 4 Seasons Management not holding up to our signed agreement. The Board has unanimously agreed that 4 Seasons is not the right fit for our community. 4 Seasons will continue to process all HOA assessment payments (including collection of January 2023’s HOA dues) until February 23rd, 2023 and fulfill their fiduciary responsibility. The Board would like to remind residents that your first quarter assessments (January 2023) should still be paid to 4 Seasons Management Group. First quarter assessments were due to 4 Seasons by January 30th. 4 Seasons will be transferring all of our homeowner’s HOA accounts to our next management group. This was not a decision made in haste. Like you, we are homeowners too. We want what you all want: a reliable way to pay our dues, a positive experience when interacting with our neighborhood HOA, predictable community leadership, and a sense that our voices are heard. We take these responsibilities to heart so that your HOA dues are being spent towards ensuring fiscal integrity. Board selects Westwind Management Group – After spending countless hours on vetting, interviewing, and checking references of new management companies, the TrailMark HOA Board of Directors is pleased to announce that we have officially engaged with our new management company, Westwind Management Group. On February 24th, 2023, Westwind Management Group will be in charge of mailing the second quarter assessments which are due on April 1st, 2023 (but considered late on April 30th, 2023). Once Westwind takes over management of our community on February 24th, our Board has directed Westwind to cease late fees through May 31st, 2023, to make sure we have a smooth transition for all involved. Please watch your mailbox in the coming weeks as Westwind Management Group will be sending each homeowner a welcome letter with very important information regarding your HOA account. Again, thank you all for your patience and understanding with changing management companies. We know it’s not easy for you, nor is it easy for our Board Members. The Board will continue to announce any additional information that we have on the TrailMark website, the HOA Facebook page and NextDoor.com. Our Board is confident that all residents will be pleased with the professionalism from Westwind Management Group.
GFL Update: No delay Tuesday, February 21st
Tuesday, February 21st is a regular garbage and recycling pick-up day. No delay due to the Presidents Day holiday.
94 bears were euthanized in Colorado last year, accessible trash often to blame
By Spencer McKee, Out There Colorado | Feb 15, 2023. According to Colorado Parks and Wildlife, reports of bear sightings and conflicts increased significantly between 2021 and 2022, though 2022 numbers were still below those of 2019 and 2020. In 2022, 4,282 bear sightings and conflicts were reported, which is a 16 percent increase compared to the prior year. The 2022 bear reports resulted in 94 euthanizations and 59 bears being relocated. This is a big jump from the 66 bears that were euthanized in 2021, with 51 bears also being relocated in that year. The highest number of euthanizations over the past eight years took place in 2017, when 190 bears were killed. In 2020, 158 bears were euthanized and 118 were relocated. In total, it’s estimated that Colorado’s black bear population is between 17,000 and 20,000. This population is described as “stable and growing.” Trash was determined to be the top contributing factor when it comes to bear encounters, with roughly one-third of all sightings and conflicts since 2019 traced back to trash. That’s roughly 6,100 of the 18,351 reports since then. It’s also worth noting that 2.3 percent of those reports have led to euthanization. Drought tends to be a key factor that contributes to an uptick in bear reports, as drought can push hungry bears into civilized areas at a higher rate. The northwest region, which was in severe drought, saw the highest increase in bear reports in 2022 compared to 2020 and 2021. Not only is it a risk to the immediate safety of humans and bears when bears go hunting for trash, eating trash can also have negative short and long-term health impacts. The following italicized advice on preventing bear-human conflicts is quoted directly from Colorado Parks and Wildlife: Bear-proofing your home: Keep garbage in a well-secured location. Only put out garbage on the morning of pickup. Clean garbage cans regularly to keep them free of food odors: ammonia is effective. Keep garage doors closed, Do not leave pet food or stock feed outside. Use a bear-resistant trash can or dumpster. Bird feeders are a major source of bear/human conflicts. Attract birds naturally with flowers and water baths. Do not hang bird feeders from April 15 to Nov. 15. Don’t allow bears to become comfortable around your house. If you see one, haze it by yelling at it, throwing things at it and making loud noises to scare it off. Secure compost piles. Bears are attracted to the scent of rotting food. Clean the grill after each use, clean-up thoroughly after cookouts. If you have fruit trees, don’t allow the fruit to rot on the ground. Talk to your neighbors and kids about being Bear Aware. Cars, traveling and campsites: Lock your doors when you’re away from home and at night. Keep the bottom floor windows of your house closed when you’re not at home. Do not keep food in your vehicle; roll up windows and lock the doors of your vehicles. When car-camping, secure all food and coolers in a locked vehicle. Keep a clean camp, whether you’re in a campground or in the backcountry. When camping in the backcountry, hang food 100 feet or more from the campsite; don’t bring any food into your tent. Cook food well away from your tent; wash dishes thoroughly. It’s up to Coloradans to do their part to be bear aware. Irresponsible actions can get bears killed. Read more about bears in Colorado here.
Posted February 19, 2023
Reminder: Waste bins must be to curb by 7:00 am
February 7, 2023 – Dear TrailMark Residents, It has come to our understanding that after driving through the entire neighborhood at 7:10 am today and counting how many homes had their trash and recycling bins placed out front, the HOA board can attest that 75% of residents had NOT brought their waste outside for pickup. The TrailMark HOA would like to remind residents that waste bins must be placed outside for pickup no later than 7 a.m. on dedicated trash pickup days. The HOA Board asks that its residents help spread the word. Thank you for your cooperation. The TrailMark HOA Board of Directors, https://www.trailmark.org/
TrailMark Homeowners Association, Notice of New Management
February 3, 2023 – Dear TrailMark Homeowner, Recently, the attached notice was mailed to every homeowner within the TrailMark Homeowners Association community. As identified in the notice, Westwind Management Group will be assuming management responsibilities for our community effective February 24, 2023. They are looking forward to being of service to you and our community! In the event that you did not receive the mailer announcing the change in management, and the included return envelope, please mail your 2nd quarter, April 1st assessment payment to TrailMark HOA c/o Westwind Management Group, P.O. Box 95854, Las Vegas, NV 89193. We anticipate that you will be able to sign up for automatic payments or make an electronic payment as early as March 20, 2023. A note from the Westwind Management Group transition team: To ensure that the owner contact information received from previous management is accurate, we ask that all homeowners complete the attached owner profile form and return it to our office. As identified in the attached notice, you may return the completed questionnaire via email to info@westwindmanagement.com, or you may visit our website at www.westwindmanagement.com, select “Owner Profile” from the “Homeowner Resources” menu, and complete this form electronically through our website. There is other valuable information included in the attached notice and we encourage you to carefully read through it. Should you have any questions and/or concerns after reading this notice, please reach out to the community via email to TrailMark@westwindmanagement.com or phone at 720-756-3187. Thank you, TrailMark Homeowners Association Board of Directors and Westwind Management Group, LLC. Attachments – Original letter dated 1/30/2023 and Owner Profile form
Reminder:
Snow and ice are required to be removed from sidewalks within 24 hours after a snowfall. www.littletongov.org
Posted February 1, 2023
A gentle reminder
Jefferson County has animal control laws in place to protect public health and safety. Please demonstrate responsible pet ownership.
Posted February 1, 2023
Deer Creek Canyon Park/Hildebrand Ranch Park Trail Closure
The entirety of Black Bear Trail, which connects Deer Creek Canyon Park and Hildebrand Ranch Park, is closed from February 1 through July 31 to protect nesting birds of prey. More info
Friendly Reminder about Holiday Decorations
All exterior holiday decorations and lights utilized as season displays must be removed and properly stored by February 1, 2022.
TrailMark Monthly Newsletter
The February issue of the TRAILMARK NEWSLETTER has been emailed out to the TrailMark community. It can be viewed online at: https://www.trailmark.org/newsletter.html. If you didn’t receive your email copy, please sign up here to join the email list: https://www.trailmark.org/email-sign-up.html. If you are signed up and still did not receive your issue, please email the communications committee at: communications@trailmarkhoa.org.
1/30/2023 Dear Owner(s):
After considerable examination of the many operational and management needs of the Association, we are pleased to announce that we have selected Westwind Management Group, LLC to assume management responsibilities of the Association, effective February 24, 2023. ASSOCIATION PAYMENT INFORMATION What about my next payment? Assessments are due quarterly, and are $135/qtr. A return envelope is enclosed for your 2nd quarter, April 1st payment. We ask that all homeowners mail your April 2023 payment using this envelope, due to the transition. No late charges will be assessed through May 31st during this transition. A new coupon payment booklet will be sent to you in March for your remaining 2023 Quarterly payments. You may also opt out of receiving a coupon book. If you prefer not to receive one, please send an email to: coupon@westwindmanagement.com and include your name and address to opt out. We anticipate you will be able to sign up for automatic payments as early as March 20th (depending on timing of receipt of information from prior management). Once homeowners are able to sign up for Automatic Payments, we will send an email to those members with an email on file. At that time, you will also be able to access your account and review the balance (if any) received from previous management. Please be aware that prior management has been instructed to stop any owner ACH payments as of February 23rd . What if I pay my association assessments through a “bill pay” service or my bank? If your Association payments are made via a bill pay service through a third party or your bank, this does not transfer to our new Management Company automatically, so you will need to contact your bill pay service directly to arrange for the address change to send payments to: TrailMark HOA c/o Westwind Management Group P.O. Box 95854 Las Vegas NV 89193-5854 What if I already sent my payment to the prior management company? Don’t worry! Your first quarter assessments (January 2023) should still be paid to 4 Seasons Management Group. 4 Seasons has a legal obligation to collect your assessments through February 23rd, 2023. First quarter assessments were due to 4 Seasons by January 30th. 4 Seasons will be transferring all homeowner HOA accounts to Westwind Management Group. Any payments made to prior management after February 23rd will either be forwarded to Westwind or will be applied to your ledger by the prior management company before they turn over our records. Please note that payments forwarded to Westwind by previous management, or which are received on or before February 24th, will be processed as soon as possible. However, payments will not be able to be processed until appropriate records are received from prior management and all owner beginning balances have been entered. It is estimated that payments will be initially processed the week of March 20th . OWNER PROFILE So management may serve you more efficiently, please complete the New Owner Profile Form online at www.westwindmanagement.com under Homeowner Resources, or you may use the enclosed Form and return it to the management office via mail [27 Inverness Drive East, Englewood CO 80112], or email info@westwindmanagement.com or by fax to 303.369.0007. ASSOCIATION DOCUMENTS/REAL ESTATE TRANSACTIONS What if I have a home sale upcoming or need documents during this transitional period? If you anticipate that you will need a status letter or questionnaire for a real estate transaction (sale of home, refinance, etc.) or any Association Documents in the next 30 days, please contact your realtor or title company representative to advise them of this change, so they can take appropriate action to secure those documents from prior management in advance of the transition date 2/24/23). Within 30 – 45 days after management contract start date, we anticipate a complete association document package to be available through Westwind’s service partner, HomeWise Docs. OWNER PORTAL / WEB ACCESS How do I get access to the owner portal, documents and my account information? It is important to note that it can take up to 30 days from the contract start date to receive records from prior management. After Westwind has all of our information, it may take up to an additional 30 days to verify and enter, and / or upload everything for our website. This process will move along as quickly as possible, but if you find you need something in the meantime, just reach out to the below management team members, who will be glad to assist you personally. Westwind will notify us via email once the website is operational. Once you are able to access your account, you may then verify your account balance (if any) by viewing your account. Please be sure to include your email address(es) when you submit your owner profile information so you will receive this and other important communications. MANAGEMENT COMPANY INFORMATION The main telephone number for Westwind Management Group is 303.369.1800. If you call after business hours with an emergency, please follow the voice prompts to reach their twenty-four-hour answering service. Please notify the answering service that it is an emergency, and they will respond appropriately. Nonemergency calls will be returned the next business day. The website is www.westwindmanagement.com and the main fax number is 303.369.0007. Westwind Management offers a unique and thorough onboarding process for new clients, utilizing a leadership level transition team. The client onboarding process may take up to 90 days. Our transition team will include a Transition / Onboarding Manager, Silvia Gregory, Director of Management Services; an Administrative Professional, Liana Way, Director of Administrative Services; and handling our account setup, Anais Torres, Accounting Specialist. After the transition is complete, we will be assigned a long-term client experience team and the management company will advise the community of the new contact information. Our Association has been provided with a dedicated email and direct phone number exclusively for our owners and residents to use to contact the management company: Email: TrailMark@westwindmanagement.com Phone: 720-756-3187 We look forward to an exciting future for our community! TrailMark Homeowners Association Board of Directors
Christmas tree drop-off
Again this year, Jefferson County Road & Bridge will be taking real Christmas trees for disposal. Here are the specifics: REAL CHRISTMAS TREES ONLY. Please, NO other materials or vegetation. Jefferson County residents ONLY. December 26th to the end of January. KINDLY NOTE: The Christmas trees must be CLEAN, and clear of anything that was not part of the natural tree. NO ornaments, tinsel, lights, bows, garlands, string, etc….. In other words, no attached items of any type – Just a clean tree. LOCATION/DIRECTIONS – 9509 W. Ute Ave., Littleton. Head south on Kipling Parkway. Go under C-470. In one block, Kipling dead-ends into Ute Ave. Take a left. Head east on Ute Ave. (Google maps may say “Garrison.”) The gated entrance is immediately on the left, off Ute/Garrison. Turn left/north, into the driveway. The Christmas tree drop-off location is immediately on your right/east (see photo), behind the “NO Dumping $1000 Fine” sign. (Please note: There is a fine if you dump anything other than a real Christmas tree). Clean, Real Christmas Trees ONLY. THANK YOU.
Updated: First Quarter HOA Assessments are due January 1st
(no later than January 30th, 2023) Online and AutoPay: You should have received an activation link from 4 Seasons Management Group at the end of November, for the online portal to your email address on file. Please let 4 Seasons Management know if you did not receive it. Mail: 4 Seasons Management Group, 9351 Grant Street Suite 500, Thornton, CO 80229, Phone: 303-952-4004, E-mail: Hello@4shoa.com. The November email will have TrailMark Homeowners Association as the subject. Once you access the email you will select “Activate Now.” It will then take you to create a password. Once you create a password, you will be logged in and able to set up your auto pay or pay online. Please reach out to 4 Seasons if you need any assistance when setting up your auto pay. Mailing your First Quarter Assessment Payment: TrailMark residents who want to mail in their First Quarter Assessment using a check need to do the following: Make the check payable to TrailMark Homeowners Association, Inc. Be sure to include your five digit account number on the check. It can be found on your assessment statement recently mailed out by 4 Seasons Management. This will insure your check is credited correctly. Be sure to include the lower portion of the Assessment Notice so that your check will be deposited in the correct account. If you have a copy machine, make a copy of the invoice and your check for your files before mailing. Checks should be mailed no later than January 23, 2023 to insure posting before the late payment deadline. Send your completed check and the bottom portion of the notice to the new Dropbox address for sending checks which is different than the address above: TRAILMARK HOMEOWNERS ASSOCIATION INC. – 9351, PO BOX 173638, DENVER, CO 80127-3638
Home Improvement Requests
While the community transitions to a new management company, please send your DRC requests to trailmark@westwindmanagement.com. When the new management company is on-board, new instructions will be published. As a reminder, the DRC reviews requests the 1st and 3rd week of every month. To ensure that your completed request is reviewed expeditiously, it must be received not later than 12:00 noon, the Friday prior to a review week. Get your DRC forms from the HOA website at https://www.trailmark.org/hoa-documents-amp-forms.html. If you have any questions of the DRC, please email designreview@trailmarkhoa.org.
Posted January 27, 2023
New DRC Committee Solicitation
The Design Review Committee (DRC) continues to seek new volunteers. The DRC’s vision/philosophy/purpose is posted on the HOA website at https://www.trailmark.org/design-review.html. Please review to better understand the DRC. As a DRC member, one must commit to the following: Active participation requires: Active participation in DRC meetings the 1st and 3rd week of each month, year-round. Review of submitted homeowner requests prior to each meeting and post preliminary decisions on Google Drive prior to each meeting; Routine daily/weekly email monitoring to respond to emergency requests. Become knowledgeable of and be able to apply the TrailMark Covenants, Conditions and Restrictions (CCRs) and Design Guidelines; Help develop new improvement standards. This requires research, writing, editing, and presenting potential standards to the HOA Board for their review and decision; Other shared responsibilities: Document all homeowner request decisions; Receive relevant materials required to support homeowner requests; Maintain and track the TrailMark paint sample books; Develop and submit relevant articles to the TrailMark newsletter, website, and/or Facebook page; As necessary, conduct on-site visits to better understand homeowner requests. Conduct post-completion reviews to determine compliance with that which was DRC approved. DRC time commitment varies by the time of year. Generally: March-October: Minimum 2-4 hours weekly. Review requests, participate in DRC meetings. November-February: 1-2 hours weekly with meetings often cancelled. If interested in volunteering for the DRC, please submit the following to designreview@trailmarkhoa.org: Name, Address, Contact Info – phone; email address. Relevant qualifications that might contribute to the committee’s stated vision/philosophy/purpose. Why you would like to join the DRC. Please submit your interest to designreview@trailmarkhoa.org as soon as possible.
Posted January 27, 2023
Event Sponsors Wanted
Be a Neighborhood Hero! The Social Committee is looking for business sponsors for some of our 2023 events! In order to keep from raising event prices/entrance fees we are looking for sponsors for various portions of events, or entire event sponsors. This could include paying for the bounce houses or face painters at the summer concerts, 4th of July or TM5K events; paying for coffee and donuts at the Easter Egg Hunt or 4th of July events; or even sponsoring carriage rides at the TrailMark 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
Posted January 26, 2023
Our New Management Company
January 23, 2023 – Dear TrailMark Residents, The TrailMark HOA Board of Directors is pleased to announce that we have officially engaged with our new management company as of this morning. After a month of intense interviews, vetting, and checking references, our Board selected Westwind Management Group in Englewood, Colorado to become our new management company as of February 24th, 2023. As of today, Westwind will immediately begin the transition process with 4 Seasons Management Group. Please watch your mailbox in the coming weeks as Westwind Management Group will be sending each homeowner a welcome letter with very important information regarding your HOA account. The Board would like to remind residents that your first quarter assessments (January 2023) will still be paid to 4 Seasons Management Group. 4 Seasons has a legal obligation to collect our assessments through February 23rd, 2023. First quarter assessments are due to 4 Seasons by January 30th. 4 Seasons will be transferring all of our homeowner’s HOA accounts to Westwind Management Group. On February 24th, Westwind Management Group will become our new management company. Westwind Management Group will be in charge of mailing the second quarter assessments which are due on April 1st, 2023, but considered late on April 30th, 2023. Once Westwind takes over our community on February 24th, our Board directed Westwind to cease late fees through May 31st, 2023 to make sure we have a smooth transition for all involved. Again, thank you all for your patience and understanding with changing management companies. We know it’s not easy for you, nor is it easy for our Board Members. The Board will continue to announce any additional information that we have on the TrailMark website, the HOA Facebook page, and NextDoor.com. Our Board is confident that all residents will be pleased with the professionalism from Westwind Management Group. Thank you, Ken Colaizzi, President, TrailMark HOA, Littleton, CO 80127, president@trailmarkhoa.org, https://www.trailmark.org
Fire Hydrants need clearance
To those who have fire hydrants in their yards… After a heavy snowstorm, fire hydrants throughout the neighborhood should be cleared 3 ft. around, so that if needed, firefighters wouldn’t have to spend time digging out before connecting their hoses. In an emergency, every second counts.
Posted January 18, 2023
GFL update: No delays in January.
January 3rd and January 17th are regular garbage and recycling pick-up days. No delays due to the New Year’s and MLK Day holidays.
Pointers for paying your January Assessments
January 15, 2023 – Dear TrailMark Residents, Our HOA Board would like to give some pointers to residents who have yet to pay their January 2023 assessments. For those of you who have already paid your January assessments, thank you for your prompt payment and please disregard this notice. January 1st assessments are considered late if not paid by January 30th, 2023. Hopefully, these pointers below will assist in homeowners getting their assessments paid on time. OPTION #1: You can pay your January assessment on the 4 Seasons portal (fourseasonsmgmtgroup.appfolio.com) using auto pay. You can set up auto pay on the 4 Seasons portal. If you choose the 4 Seasons auto pay, we would highly recommend that you pay just the January 1st assessment (aka First Quarter assessment) and not set up future payments with 4 Seasons since 4 Seasons won’t be our management company after February 23, 2023. If you have difficulty setting up this option, please email HOA Manager Chad Rohr at crohr@4shoa.com and Assistant HOA Manager, Katie Madrid at kmadrid@4shoa.com. OPTION #2: You can pay with a credit card on the 4 Seasons portal (fourseasonsmgmtgroup.appfolio.com). Using a credit card will charge a minimal fee, but it is preferred by many homeowners since it is an instant payment to your HOA account. This is a great option of payment for those who are getting close to the final due date. Again, the Board would recommend just making the first quarter assessment payment (January 1st) at this time, and not set up future credit card payments with 4 Seasons. If you have difficulty setting up this option, please email HOA Manager Chad Rohr at crohr@4shoa.com and Assistant HOA Manager, Katie Madrid at kmadrid@4shoa.com. OPTION #3: You can set up online bill pay with your personal bank. When doing this method, please make sure your personal bank has your HOA account number printed on your submitted check, preferably in the memo. Your personal bank would need to mail your assessment to: TrailMark HOA, Inc., C/O 4 Seasons Management Group, P.O. Box 173638, Denver, CO 80217-3638. OPTION #4: You can pay with a handwritten check from your personal check book. Please make sure that you include your HOA account number in the memo of your check. We recommend making a copy of your check prior to mailing it. Please note that mailing with the USPS has been delayed and could impact receipt of your payment on time. You can mail it to: TrailMark HOA, Inc., C/O 4 Seasons Management Group, P.O. Box 173638, Denver, CO 80217-3638. OPTION #5: You are welcome to hand deliver your personal check to 4 Seasons Management Group at their main office in Thornton. 4 Seasons office hours are Monday-Thursday from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., and Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Again, we’d highly recommend making copies of your check prior to submitting. Also, when hand delivering your personal check, ask for a receipt. You can hand deliver your check to: 4 Seasons Management Group, 9351 Grant Street, Suite #500, Thornton, CO 80229. As announced in our January 10th HOA Meeting, 4 Seasons Management Company is still our managing company until February 23rd, 2023. 4 Seasons has a contractual and fiduciary responsibility to process your assessment payments. All HOA accounts, including all of your payments, will be transferred to our next management company. Please save all of your receipts, in case there are any discrepancies down the road. If any resident is having difficulty setting up their HOA accounts, please contact our HOA managers at 4 Seasons for their assistance. You can email our HOA Manager Chad Rohr at crohr@4shoa.com and Assistant HOA Manager, Katie Madrid at kmadrid@4shoa.com. Some other residents have recently informed the Board that their assessment payments have been returned by their personal bank. The Board has asked why this has occurred for some of you, but we have not received an answer at this time. If this has also happened to you, please email Chad Rohr (crohr@4shoa.com) and Katie Madrid (kmadrid@4shoa.com) and cc the Board (board@trailmarkhoa.org), so that we can be of assistance if these issues do not get corrected. Chad and Katie have been helping homeowners correct these issues. Finally, for those of you who have pre-paid your assessments, please note that your HOA account will be transferred to the next management company. You may wish to log into the 4 Seasons portal (fourseasonsmgmtgroup.appfolio.com) and screen shot your prepaid amount as a personal record. You were also mailed a statement on December 24th, 2022. If you had pre-paid your assessments, the January 2023 statement amount is shaded in gray and clearly states that no payment is due at this time. Please note that this pre-paid amount will be transferred, along with your entire HOA account to our next management company. We hope this information helps all residents. Please make all HOA assessment payments prior to January 30th, 2023. We will announce the new management company as soon as we have the details. Thank you for your patience in this upcoming management transition. The TrailMark HOA Board of Directors
From the Design Review Committee (DRC) – New Member Solicitation
The Design Review Committee (DRC) is soliciting new volunteers to join this very important committee. As posted on the TrailMark website the DRC’s vision/philosophy/purpose: Encourage consistent quality and design expression throughout TrailMark’s boundaries, while allowing for owner individuality of improvement expression. Facilitate restoration of the original high prairie and foothills environment through a distinctive native prairie landscape design. This design uses a combination of traditional sodded lawns, unmowed native grasses, wildflowers, sage, rabbit brush, pine, many other prairie natives, and native moss rock field stones and rounded granite river boulders. Define the means by which homes built at TrailMark can be compatible with each other and with TrailMark’s unique setting. This establishes the basis for The DRC’s decisions – compliance with the spirit of TrailMark’s original design to facilitate mutual enhancement and protection of the TrailMark’s qualities. Review and approve/approve with conditions/disapprove/request additional information, all Home Improvement Requests submitted by TrailMark homeowners. As a DRC member, one must commit to the following: Active participation in DRC meetings the 1st and 3rd week of each month, year-around. Active participation requires: Receipt and review of all submitted homeowner requests prior to each meeting; Individually post preliminary decisions on Google Drive prior to each meeting; Attendance at each meeting (currently via ZOOM) ready to discuss and render thoughtful decisions on each submitted request; Routine daily/weekly email monitoring to respond to emergency requests. Become knowledgeable of and be able to apply the TrailMark Covenants, Conditions and Restrictions (CCRs) and Design Guidelines; Participate in developing new TrailMark property improvement standards. Doing so requires research, writing, editing, and presenting potential standards to the HOA Board for their review and decision; Other potential responsibilities, shared amongst all committee members: Documenting all homeowner request decisions; Receive submitted paint chips and other relevant materials required to support homeowner requests; Maintain and track the issuance of the TrailMark paint sample books; Develop and submit relevant news articles for the TrailMark newsletter, website, and/or Facebook page; Occasionally conduct any required homeowner on-site visits to review and get a better understanding of homeowner requests. Conduct post-completion projects to determine their compliance with that which was DRC approved. DRC time commitment varies by the time of year. Generally: March-October: Minimum 2-4 hours weekly. Review requests, participate in DRC meetings. November-February: 1-2 hours weekly with meetings often cancelled. If you are interested in volunteering for the DRC, please submit the following to designreview@trailmarkhoa.org: Name. Address. Contact Info – phone; email address. Any relevant qualifications that might contribute to the committee’s stated vision/philosophy/purpose. Please submit your interest to designreview@trailmarkhoa.org as soon as possible but not later than January 15, 2023.
Photo Gallery: Volunteers Taking Down Holiday Decorations
January 14, 2023 – Photos by Phil Kinney
Coffee with the Chief
Thursday, January 12, 2023
HOA BOARD MEETING
Tuesday, January 10th, 6:30 pm. Zoom meeting: https://4shoa.zoom.us/j/82827633505 or CALL IN: +1-720-707-2699, Meeting ID: 828 2763 3505. Agenda. All are welcome.
Board termination of 4 Seasons Management Group
January 10, 2023 – Dear TrailMark Residents, As mentioned in the January 10th HOA meeting, the TrailMark HOA Board has unanimously decided to terminate the 4 Seasons Management contract in order to protect our residents, our vendors, and our Board. We know transitions are difficult for homeowners, and exhausting for our Board, but our Board feels that an immediate change is necessary due to 4 Seasons Management not holding up to our signed agreement. Please continue to pay your January assessments to 4 Seasons that are due by January 31st. 4 Seasons must continue to be our fiduciary and process all HOA assessment payments until February 23rd. 4 Seasons has a legal obligation to transfer all of your HOA payments, and records to our next management company. TrailMark’s Declaration (specifically Article 8, Section 8.21) allows the Association to hire and terminate a management company. This power is vested in the elected Board of Directors to make this decision. The Board has met and conferred often about problems the Association was experiencing over time regarding the managing duties and the way they were performed by 4 Seasons. As stated, the Board has unanimously agreed that 4 Seasons is not the right fit for our community. The Board understands that this is frustrating on everyone and we request patience and understanding from all as we transition to a new management company that we feel has our best interests in mind. The Board has been spending countless hours on vetting, interviewing, and checking references of new management companies. Our Board hasn’t made a final selection of the new management company yet, but we will publicly announce as soon as we sign a contract with the next management company. We realize that changing management companies is inconvenient. Please know that we tried to work out the issues that our community has been experiencing with our current company. These attempts were made with all of our residents in mind. The standards we expect were just not being met. This was not a decision made in haste. Like you, we are homeowners too. We want what you all want: a reliable way to pay our dues, a positive experience when interacting with our neighborhood HOA, predictable community leadership, and a sense that our voices are heard. We take these responsibilities to heart so that your HOA dues are being spent towards ensuring fiscal integrity. We ask for your patience, and are working very hard to make this transition as pain-free as possible. Thank you for trusting in us enough to select us as your board. We feel honored to be serving you all in this way. Thank you, Ken Colaizzi, President, TrailMark HOA, Littleton, CO 80127, president@trailmarkhoa.org, https://www.trailmark.org
BE AWARE from the HOA President
January 7, 2023 – Dear TrailMark Residents, Our Board has been made aware of some recent thievery here in TrailMark. Last week, a community mailbox located on West Cannes Drive was broken into and mail was stolen. The incident was reported to the United States Postal Police and the Littleton Police Department. Fortunately, the USPS has repaired the mailbox. Law enforcement and the USPS recommends that residents remove their mail from the mailboxes daily. If you know you’ll be out of town for an extended period of time, please consider stopping your mail, or ask a neighbor to collect your mail on a daily basis. There has also been a couple incidents of porch pirates stealing packages on West Danzig Place and South Flower Way. Thankfully, these residents reported these incidents to Littleton Police. Our Board wants to alert all residents to be vigilant and be aware of your surroundings. If you see any suspicious activity, persons, or vehicles, please report them to Littleton Police at 303-794-1551. We need to look out for our neighbors and send a message to these criminals that they are not welcome here in TrailMark. Sincerely, Ken Colaizzi, President, TrailMark HOA, Littleton, CO 80127, president@trailmarkhoa.org, https://www.trailmark.org. Photo by Betty Jean Von Tersch
GFL update
No delay on January 3rd. January 3rd is a regular garbage and recycling pick-up day. No delay due to the New Year’s holiday.
TrailMark Monthly Newsletter
The January issue of the TRAILMARK NEWSLETTER has been emailed out to the TrailMark community. It can be viewed online at: https://www.trailmark.org/newsletter.html. If you didn’t receive your email copy, please sign up here to join the email list: https://www.trailmark.org/email-sign-up.html. If you are signed up and still did not receive your issue, please email the communications committee at: communications@trailmarkhoa.org. Photo by Peter Rondinone
HOA ASSESSMENTS DUE JANUARY 1st
As a reminder, HOA Assessments are due January 1st. You may log into your account on the 4 Seasons website to view and pay your assessment. If you have any questions, please contact 4 Seasons at 303-952-4004. TrailMark HOA Board