Meeting minutes for March 2018 Board Meeting
https://ambassador2.com
Monday, March 12, 2018
President: Brien Sherman
Vice President: Kenny Long
Treasurer: Jay Heath
Secretary: Vacant
Member At Large: Jeanne Perrin (absent)
Association Manager: Jack Taylor
Homeowners Forum
● One homeowner was present at the meeting this month. Meeting was called to order at 6:36pm. The December 2017 minutes were approved as written. No meetings in January or February.
Things to Always Remember
● GARAGE VEHICLE GATE: Before proceeding away from the building or to your parking space, please wait for the Summit Ave garage gate to close completely (Rule 3.17).
● GARAGE OPENERS: Do not leave garage remotes in vehicles (Rule 4.10). When a vehicle is broken into, thieves usually take the remote, as it’ll be much easier for them to re-enter the garage for additional burglarizing.
● PARKING IN GARAGE: The dentist office spaces are not to be used after hours for guest parking. There is no guest parking in the garages. All parking spaces are assigned. Unauthorized vehicles may be towed without warning at owner’s risk and expense. Non-resident owners, please advise tenants.
● WATER SHUT-OFF VALVE: Every unit has a water shut-off valve located above the water heater. This valve will shut water off to your whole unit only.
● REGULAR UNIT INSPECTIONS: Owners not residing in their unit are strongly encouraged to inspect their unit on a regular basis, as tenants tend to not report damage to the unit. Non-resident owners who live out of the area are required by statute RCW 59.18.060(15) to have a local representative to protect their interests.
Treasurer’s Reports
● For period ending February 28, 2018. Bank, Savings and Investment Accounts
Checking: $46,588.15
Washington Federal Replacement / Special Assessment Reserve: $223,685.26
Sound Credit Union Savings: $227,529.31
Umpqua Bank 17-month CD: $239,113.12
Petty Cash: $100.00
Total Assets: $747,015.84
Committee Reports
● The 600 E Howell project is scheduled to begin with demolition about April 15th, with construction to begin in May. (#3024635). Total project length is projected to be 16 months. These dates are subject to change.
Security
● Continued burglaries of residential garages. Non-resident owners, please discuss this continued security issue with tenants. We strongly advise residents to never leave anything in lockers or vehicles that one does not wish to lose. Leaving valuables or even non-valuables in plain sight is an invitation for thieves. It is our individual responsibility to secure the building. No vehicle break ins reported last month.
● No packages were reported stolen in February.
Rules
● Please re-familiarize yourself with the Rules & Regulations, which may be easily found on the website.
● Recycling reminders : Our rules are identical to the City of Seattle’s recycling rules. An easy to read reminder is posted near the trash room door. Approximately two thirds of all boxes that are placed in the recycling bins contain items that are NOT recyclable. Boxes must be flattened and trash disposed of in the correct container.
Old Business
● Repairs to water damage in an upper x09 unit is essentially complete.
● A clogged drain line led to water damage in a single unit. Repairs to begin soon. This is another charge against the Association for damage, which may lead to additional borrowing against our Reserve accounts.
● The Ambassador I window project is ongoing. Scaffolding should be down on our side and on Summit by mid to late April.
● We have an opening on the Board. Any owner or resident is encouraged to stop by a meeting.
New Business
● We are currently getting bids for the -04 stack stucco repair and refurbishment project. As mentioned before, this project will be funded through our reserves. We are anticipating a start date sometime in May.
● We are beginning the budgeting process for the next fiscal year, beginning in July. We will have a higher than normal increase in homeowner dues. Significant Property Tax, Utility, and Insurance increases are the primary reasons the increase. There are also increased minimum wages that result in higher contracted services. Finally we have a Reserve account surcharge to repay borrowed money for leak repairs.
● Window and dryer vent cleaning is scheduled for April 5 and 6.
Meeting adjourned at 7:26pm.
Next Board meeting is scheduled for Monday, April 9th, 2018 at 6:30pm in Unit E108.
Ambassador II Condominium Homeowners Association:
Activity Highlights for February 2018
https://ambassador2.com
Monday, February 12, 2018
A quorum was not met this month, so no Board meeting was held. The following are highlights of activity the last two months. There was no meeting scheduled for January.
Treasurer’s Reports
For period ending January 31, 2018
Bank, Savings and Investment Accounts
Checking: $41,400.09
Washington Federal Replacement / Special Assessment Reserve: $225,703.91
Sound Credit Union Savings: $227,529.31
Umpqua Bank 17-month CD: $239,113.12
Petty Cash: $100.00
Total Assets: $733,846.43
For period ending December 31, 2017
Bank, Savings and Investment Accounts
Checking: $24,661.11
Washington Federal Replacement / Special Assessment Reserve: $347,710.72
Sound Credit Union Savings: $127,513.24
Umpqua Bank 17-month CD: $238,842.11
Petty Cash: $100.00
Total Assets: $738,827.18
600 Howell Project
No change to the status of the construction project across the alley.
Security Update
Continued burglaries of residential garages and mail. No vehicle break ins reported in the last 2 months. There have been 2 incidents of package theft in the past few weeks. As previously advised, you should have package delivery made to a secure location. Packages left in the lobby for more than a couple days almost always “disappear”.
Rules
Recycling reminders: Our rules are identical to the City of Seattle’s recycling rules. Easy to read reminders are posted near the trash room door. Recycling is picked up Tuesday and Friday.
Ongoing issues
Repairs from water damage in an upper x09 unit are nearly complete.
Water damage repairs are complete in a lower x12 unit and the hallway/stairwell.
New Issues
To pay for the water damage, we borrowed $30,000 from Reserve Funds. This amount will need to be returned to the Reserves in the next two fiscal years (2018-2020) per RCW 64.34.384 as this damage is not part of a scheduled repair. This will be budgeted as a surcharge to the Reserve Replacements line item. We may need to borrow more. Also, Reserve funds were moved between accounts to stay within FDIC insurance limits.
The Ambassador I window replacement project is underway. They have not been forthcoming in keeping us informed of those parts that affect our shared areas. We are posting information in the lobby as we are made aware of relevant details.
Our long serving Board Member, Shaun Ross, has resigned from the Board and moved out of state. We are seeking a volunteer to serve out his term. Meetings are the second Monday of the month.
We will begin gathering bids to scaffold the -04 stack in the courtyard for inspection, repairs, and resurfacing. Project to begin in the Spring. Funding will be from Reserves.
Our Annual Replacement Reserves review has begun. The final report will be available on our website.
Our insurance policies were renewed. As expected, there was a substantial premium increase for our earthquake insurance. As you may know, “earthquake insurance” is in fact a major disaster policy that covers only specific disasters. Earthquake in our case, but the same re-insurers also cover wildfires and floods, which are increasing nationwide.
A leak between units in the upper levels of the x12 stack was caused by a failed toilet tank. Unit owners insurance to cover. We once again remind all owners that toilets with the “Crane” label are likely original to the building, obsolete, and prone to cracking. They should be replaced.
The Board is investigating a drain overflow issue in one of the units that occurred this date to determine responsibility.
Property taxes are due April 30th. The King County Assessor says property taxes this year will average 17%. This will result in even higher dues increase in the coming fiscal year. Estimating property taxes is the most difficult part of creating our budget.
Next Board meeting is scheduled for Monday, March 12, 2018 at 6:30pm in Unit E108.
Ambassador II Condominium Homeowners Association:
506 E Howell St, Seattle, WA 98122 (not our mailing address)
Meeting minutes for December 2017 Board Meeting
https://ambassador2.com
Monday, December 11, 2017
President: Brien Sherman
Vice President: Kenny Long (absent)
Treasurer: Jay Heath
Secretary: Shaun Ross
Member At Large: Jeanne Perrin
Association Manager: Jack Taylor
Homeowners Forum
● No homeowners present at the meeting this month.
Meeting was called to order at 6:34pm. The October 2017 minutes were approved as written. November 2017 meeting was cancelled due to the power outage.
Things to Always Remember
● GARAGE VEHICLE GATE: Before proceeding away from the building or to your parking space, please wait for the Summit Ave garage gate to close completely (Rule 3.17).
● GARAGE OPENERS: Do not leave garage remotes in vehicles (Rule 4.10). When a vehicle is broken into, thieves usually take the remote, as it’ll be much easier for them to re-enter the garage for additional burglarizing.
● PARKING IN GARAGE: The dentist office spaces are not to be used after hours for guest parking. There is no guest parking in the garages. All parking spaces are assigned. Unauthorized vehicles may be towed without warning at owner’s risk and expense. Non-resident owners, please advise tenants.
● WATER SHUT-OFF VALVE: Every unit has a water shut-off valve located above the water heater. This valve will shut water off to your whole unit only.
● REGULAR UNIT INSPECTIONS: Owners not residing in their unit are strongly encouraged to inspect their unit on a regular basis, as tenants tend to not report damage to the unit. Non-resident owners who live out of the area are required by statute RCW 59.18.060(15) to have a local representative to protect their interests.
Treasurer’s Reports
● For period ending October 31, 2017. Bank, Savings and Investment Accounts
Checking: $30,080.28
Washington Federal Replacement / Special Assessment Reserve: $331,728.76
Sound Credit Union Savings: $127,513.24
Umpqua Bank 17-month CD: $238,842.11
Petty Cash: $100.00
Total Assets: $728,264.39
● For period ending November 30, 2017. Bank, Savings and Investment Accounts
Checking: $27,327.57
Washington Federal Replacement / Special Assessment Reserve: $339,719.88
Sound Credit Union Savings: $127,513.24
Umpqua Bank 17-month CD: $238,842.11
Petty Cash: $100.00
Total Assets: $733,502.80
Committee Reports
● The Redwood Bar and the Howell Street Convenience store are closed as of early November. Plywood had been added to both storefronts in early December. No update at this time as to when the structures will be demolished. The replacement structure will be a 7-story mixed use building (#3024635).
Security
● Continued burglaries of residential garages. Non-resident owners, please discuss this continued security issue with tenants. We strongly advise residents to never leave anything in lockers or vehicles that one does not wish to lose. Leaving valuables or even non-valuables in plain sight is an invitation for thieves. It is our individual responsibility to secure the building. No vehicle break ins reported in the last 2 months.
● ‘Tis package theft season! Be prepared by not having packages delivered to the building; especially those that don’t require signatures. To prevent theft, please have your packages delivered to an Amazon locker or your work or request a signature or be home when the package arrives. There has been 2 incidents of package theft in the past few weeks.
Rules
● Please re-familiarize yourself with the Rules & Regulations, which may be easily found on the website.
● Recycling reminders : Our rules are identical to the City of Seattle’s recycling rules. An easy to read reminder is posted near the trash room door. Please breakdown boxes and dispose of your Holiday boxes and packing appropriately.
● No walk-off mats may be placed in front of doors in the east building per the Rules & Regulations (Rule 8.3). They damage the carpet and are a safety hazard if the building needs to be evacuated quickly.
Old Business
● The stucco report is still under review. We continue to look at contractors and work on a plan of repair implementation. As mentioned before, this project will be funded through our reserves.
● Inspection and repairs to water damage in an upper x09 unit is still in the works.
● Window washing and vent cleaning completed in early October.
● Water damage repairs are just about complete in a lower x12 unit and the hallway/stairwell.
New Business
● The fire alarm inspection went very well; much better than anticipated. Thank you very much to all participants. Some units will need horn and/or sprinkler head repairs. The Board is awaiting follow up from Fire Safety Services (FSS).
● Two contracts have been renewed: elevator maintenance and landscape maintenance.
● To pay for the water damage, we’ll need to pull from reserves. This amount will need to be returned to the reserves in the next two fiscal years (2018-2020), as this damage is not part of a scheduled repair. This will be budgeted as a surcharge to the Reserve Replacements line item.
● During the fire alarm inspection, it was discovered that the fire door on the first floor of the east building did not close properly. Repairs will be made shortly.
● Please do not dump unwanted mail in the lobby and properly dispose of it in the recycle bins.
● The Board has authorized Ambassador 1 to store their patio items on our property, as they work on replacing their windows.
Meeting adjourned at 7:16pm.
Next Board meeting is scheduled for Monday, February 12, 2018 at 6:30pm in Unit E108. There will be no meeting in January 2018.
Ambassador II Condominium Homeowners Association:
506 E Howell St, Seattle, WA 98122 (not our mailing address)
Meeting minutes for October 2017 Board Meeting
https://ambassador2.com
Monday, October 9, 2017
President: Brien Sherman
Vice President: Kenny Long
Treasurer: Jay Heath
Secretary: Shaun Ross
Member At Large: Jeanne Perrin (absent)
Association Manager: Jack Taylor
Homeowners Forum
● No homeowners were present at the meeting this month.
Meeting was called to order at 6:37pm. The September 2017 minutes were approved as written.
Things to Always Remember
● GARAGE VEHICLE GATE: Before proceeding away from the building or to your parking space, please wait for the Summit Ave garage gate to close completely (Rule 3.17).
● GARAGE OPENERS: Do not leave garage remotes in vehicles (Rule 4.10). When a vehicle is broken into, thieves usually take the remote, as it’ll be much easier for them to re-enter the garage for additional burglarizing.
● PARKING IN GARAGE: The dentist office spaces are not to be used after hours for guest parking. There is no guest parking in the garages. All parking spaces are assigned. Unauthorized vehicles may be towed without warning at owner’s risk and expense. Non-resident owners, please advise tenants.
● WATER SHUT-OFF VALVE: Every unit has a water shut-off valve located above the water heater. This valve will shut water off to your whole unit only.
● REGULAR UNIT INSPECTIONS: Owners not residing in their unit are strongly encouraged to inspect their unit on a regular basis, as tenants tend to not report damage to the unit. Non-resident owners who live out of the area are required by statute RCW 59.18.060(15) to have a local representative to protect their interests.
Treasurer’s Reports
● For period ending September 30, 2017. Bank, Savings and Investment Accounts
Checking: $34,287.39
Washington Federal Replacement / Special Assessment Reserve: $323,739.96
Sound Credit Union Savings: $127,497.18
Umpqua Bank 17-month CD: $238,571.41
Petty Cash: $100.00
Total Assets: $724,195.94
Committee Reports
● The Redwood Bar is scheduled to close November 16, 2017. A second phase to review the proposed project to replace the Redwood and the yellow and green houses by the Design Review Board is scheduled for October 25, 2017. The development will be a 76-unit mixed use 7-story structure with residential units over a commercial unit (#3024635). Here’s a website noting active Seattle developments: www.seattle.gov/dpd/shapingseattle/may.aspx .
Security
● Residential garage burglaries continue to occur. Non-resident owners, please discuss this continued security issue with tenants. This month we were hit again with package thefts and a car break-in. We strongly advise residents to never leave anything in lockers or vehicles that one does not wish to lose. Leaving valuables or even non-valuables in plain sight is an invitation for thieves. It is our individual responsibility to secure the building.
● Signs will soon be installed on the wall or fencing in front of each and every parking space. This sign will inform residents that the Association is not responsible for loss or theft of personal property from vehicles or lockers or from items left in the parking space.
Rules
● Please re-familiarize yourself with the Rules & Regulations, which may be easily found on the website.
● Recycling reminders : Our rules are identical to the City of Seattle’s recycling rules. An easy to read reminder is posted near the trash room door.
● Parking spaces may not be used for storage of anything other than a motorized vehicle (Rule 4.2).
Old Business
● Please secure Wi-Fi networks. There are a few non-residents who loiter outside the building and use the open Wi-Fi to access the Internet.
● The stucco report is still in review. We’re looking at contractors and working on a plan of repair implementation. As mentioned before, this project will be funded through our reserves.
● Water damage repairs have been completed in a lower x09 stack unit.
● Window washing and vent cleaning is complete. Unfortunately, the dates changed from 10/05 & 10/06 to 10/09 & 10/10 at last minute due to unforeseen circumstances. We apologize for any inconvenience.
New Business.
● Last month, water damage was discovered on the ceiling of an upper x09 stack unit. Investigation of the damage is underway.
● Soaked carpet was discovered on the first floor landing of the north stairs in the east building. The fire system sprinkler supply lines has been identified as the culprit. Repairs are underway.
● The year end audit of the Association is complete for our fiscal year ending on June 30, 2017. All is well and in good order.
● Mandatory fire alarm testing. At this time, we hope to have the inspection scheduled for early November 2017. Your Association’s secretary has volunteered to coordinate the inspection. Once we have a set date, we’ll send a notice to all unit owners. As mentioned in the previous minutes, the fire inspector will require access to all units to confirm the alarm horn is working properly in each unit. This means that the Board will need to coordinate entry into all 65 residential units and the commercial space. On the scheduled inspection date, please be home or schedule to have a representative available to allow access to your unit. Coordinating this inspection will be difficult. We apologize in advance for the inconvenience. We hope to give everyone sufficient advance notice. The inspection will be scheduled sometime during the typical workweek. If we don’t comply, we could be hit with fines or even have our occupancy permit revoked.
Meeting adjourned at 7:00pm.
Next Board meeting is scheduled for Monday, November 13, 2017 at 6:30pm in Unit E108.
Ambassador II Condominium Homeowners Association:
506 E Howell St, Seattle, WA 98122 (not our mailing address)
Meeting minutes for September 2017 Board Meeting
https://ambassador2.com
Monday, September 11, 2017
President: Brien Sherman
Vice President: Kenny Long
Treasurer: Jay Heath
Secretary: Shaun Ross
Member At Large: Jeanne Perrin
Association Manager: Jack Taylor
Homeowners Forum
● No homeowners were present at the meeting this month. Meeting was called to order at 6:32pm. The August 2017 minutes were approved as written.
Things to Always Remember
● GARAGE VEHICLE GATE: Before proceeding to your parking space or away from the building, please wait for the Summit Ave garage gate to close completely (Rule 3.17).
● GARAGE OPENERS: Do not leave your garage remote in your vehicle. When a vehicle is broken into, thieves usually take the remote, as it’ll be much easier to re-enter the garage for additional burglarizing.
● PARKING IN GARAGE: The dentist office spaces are not to be used after hours for guest parking. There is no guest parking in either garage. All parking spaces are assigned. Unauthorized vehicles may be towed at owner’s risk and expense without warning. Non-resident owners, please advise tenants.
● WATER SHUT-OFF VALVE: A water shut-off valve is located above the water heater in every unit. This valve will shut water off to your whole unit.
● REGULAR UNIT INSPECTIONS: Owners not residing in their unit are encouraged to inspect their unit on a regular basis, as tenants tend to not report damage to the unit. Non-resident owners who live out of the area are required by statute RCW 59.18.060(15) to have a local representative to protect their interests.
Treasurer’s Reports
● For period ending August 31, 2017. Bank, Savings and Investment Accounts
Checking: $34,156.29
Washington Federal Replacement / Special Assessment Reserve: $315,750.84
Sound Credit Union Savings: $127,497.18
Umpqua Bank 17-month CD: $238,571.41
Petty Cash: $100.00
Total Assets: $716,075.72
Committee Reports
● The Redwood Bar is still scheduled to close in November. At this time, there appears to be a second phase review of the project by the Design Review Board scheduled for the end of October. As a reminder, the development will be a 7-story 76-unit residential/commercial structure (#3024635). Here’s a website noting active Seattle developments: www.seattle.gov/dpd/shapingseattle/may.aspx .
Security
● Residential garage burglaries continue to occur. Non-resident owners, please discuss this continued security issue with tenants. This month we were hit with package thefts, a locker break-in, and car prowls. We strongly advise residents to never leave anything in lockers or vehicles that one does not wish to lose. Leaving valuables or even non-valuables in plain sight is an invitation for thieves.
● Our security service discovered the pedestrian gate from the lower Summit Ave garage to the corner of Summit Ave & E Howell St ajar and secured before continuing his/her patrol. When exiting this or any other door or gate, please be sure that the door or gate is securely closed once you pass through.
Rules
● Recycling reminders : Our rules are identical to the City of Seattle’s recycling rules. The current flyer from the City is posted near the disposal section of the garage. Additionally, an easy to read reminder is posted on the trash room door.
Old Business
● Please secure Wi-Fi networks. There are a few non-residents who loiter outside the building and use the open Wi-Fi to access the Internet.
● We’re still reviewing the stucco report, looking at contractors, and working on a plan of repair implementation. As mentioned before, project will be funded through our reserves.
● The building phone systems are compliant with the new 10-digit dialing requirement now in effect.
● Water damage repairs have begun in the lower x09 stack unit.
New Business
● Mandatory fire alarm testing. The fire inspector will require access to all units to confirm the alarm horn is working properly in each unit. This means that the Board is going to have to coordinate entry into all 66 units, including the commercial space. On the scheduled inspection date, please be home or schedule to have a representative available to allow access to your unit. At this time, a date hasn’t been scheduled. We hope to give everyone sufficient advance notice. Most likely the inspection will need to be scheduled sometime Monday thru Friday. If we don’t comply, we could be hit with fines or even have our occupancy permit revoked.
● Window and vent cleaning has been scheduled for Thursday and Friday, October 5th and 6th. Please remove your screens before Thursday morning.
● Ceiling water damage discovered in an upper x09 stack unit. Investigation of the damage is underway.
Meeting adjourned at 7:04pm.
Next Board meeting is scheduled for Monday, October 9, 2017 at 6:30pm in Unit E108.
Ambassador II Condominium Homeowners Association:
506 E Howell St, Seattle, WA 98122 (not our mailing address)
Meeting minutes for August 2017 Board Meeting
https://ambassador2.com
Monday, August 14, 2017
President: Brien Sherman (absent)
Vice President: Kenny Long (absent)
Treasurer: Jay Heath
Secretary: Shaun Ross
Member At Large: Jeanne Perrin
Association Manager: Jack Taylor
Homeowners Forum
● No home-owners were present at the meeting this month.
Meeting was called to order at 6:33pm. The July 2017 minutes were approved as written.
Things to Always Remember
● CONTINUED REMINDER TO ALL RESIDENTS: Before proceeding to your parking space or away from the building, please wait for the Summit Ave garage gate to close completely (Rule 3.17).
● WATER SHUT-OFF VALVE: There is a water shut-off valve located above the water heater in every unit. This valve will shut water off to your whole unit and not the building.
● PARKING IN GARAGE: The dentist office spaces are not to be used after hours for guest parking. There is no guest parking in either garage. All parking spaces are assigned. Unauthorized vehicles may be towed without warning at owner’s risk and expense. Non-resident owners, please advise your tenants.
● REGULAR UNIT INSPECTIONS: Owners not residing in their unit are encouraged to inspect their unit on a regular basis. Non-resident owners who live out of the area are required by statute to have a local representative to protect their interests.
● GARAGE REMOTE CONTROLS: Please do not leave your garage remote within your vehicle. When the vehicle is broken into, the thieves usually take the remote, as it’ll be much easier to enter the garage for additional burglarizing.
Treasurer’s Reports
● For period ending July 31, 2017. Bank, Savings and Investment Accounts
Checking: $35,984.05
Washington Federal Replacement / Special Assessment Reserve: $307,763.01
Sound Credit Union Savings: $127,497.18
Umpqua Bank 17-month CD: $238,571.41
Petty Cash: $100.00
Total Assets: $709,915.65
Committee Reports
● The Redwood Bar is still scheduled to close in November. Unfortunately, there’s still no new information regarding the development of the site with a 7-story residential/commercial structure (#3024635).
Security
● Residential garage burglaries continue to occur. This month, a car was stolen out of the Summit Ave garage along with a cooler. We strongly advise residents to never leave anything in lockers or vehicles that one does not wish to lose. Leaving valuables or even non-valuables in plain sight is an invitation for thieves. Non-resident owners, please discuss this continued security issue with your tenants.
● Please wait for the garage gate to close completely prior to driving away from the building or proceeding to your parking space. Leaving an open gate unattended is the number one way thieves gain access to the property.
Rules
● Recycling reminders : Our rules are identical to the City of Seattle’s recycling rules. Insulation or ice packs that come with prepared meal kits are not recyclable. Please place these in the garbage bins. Just because it’s plastic does not mean that it is recyclable. The City mails flyers several times per year with the current recycling list of items (new flyer received 08/16/2017). Fines can be imposed for violations of the City’s rules.
Old Business
● The annual HOA meeting was Wednesday, July 12th.
● We’re still reviewing the stucco report and working on a plan of repair implementation. As mentioned before, project will be funded through our reserves.
● The building phone systems are compliant with the new 10-digit dialing requirement now in effect.
New Business
● Earlier in the month, the elevator stopped working. It was reset by a Board member. The elevator repair people were here the following day for periodic inspection. They believe a sensor on the fourth floor had caused the elevator to stop operating. The sensor was replaced.
● Please secure your Wi-Fi networks. There are a few non-residents who loiter outside the building and use the open Wi-Fi to access the Internet.
● Two owners have volunteered to be on the Board, Jeanne and Kenny. Jeanne will close out Venus’ term with 2-years left and Kenny will begin a 3-year term.
● A bid for water damage discovered in the x09 stack has been received. Repairs should begin soon.
● Mandatory fire alarm testing to be scheduled. The fire inspector will require access to all units to confirm the alarm horn is working properly in each unit. This means that we’re going to have to coordinate all 66 units, including the commercial space, to have someone available to allow access to all units on one day. At this time, we don’t have a date scheduled. We hope to be able to give everyone sufficient advance notice. Most likely we’ll need to schedule the inspection sometime Monday thru Friday. If we don’t comply, we could be hit with fines or even have our occupancy permit revoked.
Meeting adjourned at 7:11pm.
Next Board meeting is scheduled for Monday, September 11, 2017 at 6:30pm in Unit E108.
Ambassador II Condominium Homeowners Association:
506 E Howell St, Seattle, WA 98122 (not our mailing address)
2017 Annual Homeowner Meeting Minutes
2017 Annual H.O.A. Meeting Minutes
https://ambassador2.com
Meeting was called to order at 7:00pm on Wednesday, July 12, 2017.
Board Members in attendance:
Brien Sherman (President),
Jay Heath (treasurer),
Shaun Ross (Secretary)
Introduction and Sign-in:
● A quorum was met with the number of persons present and proxies received equaling 22.
● The proof of meeting notice was provided to all attendees.
● The IRS resolution 70 -604 was read aloud by the Treasurer as per federal law.
● The membership approved the 2016 annual meeting minutes as written.
Financial Report:
● Budget: Highlights of the previous fiscal year’s expenses we presented by the Treasurer. He also presented the 2017 /2018 annual budget for approval by the membership. A dues increase of 4.5% over the previous year was suggested. A total of 6 line items we reduced while 10 increased.
○ The present membership voted to approve the 2017/2018 annual budget as written.
● Explanation: For the continued increases to our reserves, the Treasurer provided explanations. We had more unexpected reserve withdrawals due of uninsured losses caused mainly by water damage from failed plumbing fixtures and appliances. The Reserve Study suggests we increase the amount of maintenance expected to occur in the next few years.
Old Business:
● Water Supply Valves & Hoses: If the water valves to your sinks, toilet(s), washing machine, and dishwasher are gray plastic, they are original equipment and NEED to be replaced as soon as possible. These gray plastic valves have failed without notice, causing considerable damage. We also urge everyone to check and change washing machine hoses every 5 years; braided hoses are more flexible.
● Toilets: Please consider replacing your toilet(s) with newer more efficient models. This will save us all on our water bill. Also the Board strongly urges toilet replacement as several instances of spontaneous tank cracks over the years have been reported. If your toilet says “CRANE,” it’s likely original equipment.
● Water heaters: Please replace water heaters by the time the manufacturer’s warranty period ends. Equipment past its warranty period may fail without warning, causing significant water damage to your unit as well as neighboring units.
● Recycling: Our recycling containers are picked up twice a week (TUE & FRI). Residents, please pay attention to what can and cannot be recycled. For a quick reference, notices are posted near the dumpsters. In addition, please check the City of Seattle website for the latest updates. If we lose our recycling containers or fines are imposed, our garbage bill will rise considerably.
● Smoke Detectors: If your smoke detector doesn’t have a battery backup, it is well past its expected service life. According to USFA/FEMA, smoke detectors are recommended to be replaced every 10-years. Also remember that carbon monoxide (CO) detectors are now required by State law. Rental units must be equipped immediately with CO detectors. Whereas, resident owners are required to install CO detectors as a condition of sale.
● Janitorial: Twilight Cleaning continues to service the property, and we’re very happy with their service.
● Barking Dogs: Frustration remains with fellow residents about this issue. The first step to resolving a barking dog issue is to please contact the owner of the dog to work on resolving the situation between each party. If this doesn’t work, please contact the Board with a log of times and dates of the continued barking along with the unit number. Unfortunately, the Ambassador II Board has no jurisdiction over Ambassador I residents.
● Remodeling: Please reference the Rules & Regulations regarding remodeling of units. The inside of each unit is the domain of each owner and each may pretty much do what they like to the space as long as it does not affect other units, common areas, or the building exterior. It would also be nice to meet your neighbors to discuss the remodeling noise and to give them a heads-up. Please be a good, courteous and respectful neighbor.
Nomination & Election of Directors:
● We have two new Members of the Board; Jeanne Perrin and Kenneth Long. Welcome to the Board! The two open positions have a 3-year term, however. One of these positions will complete 2-years left by the departing board member. Board positions will be discussed at the next monthly meeting in August.
New Business:
● Garbage: Cleanscapes picks up or garbage twice a week (MON & FRI). Please be sure all garbage is completely in the dumpsters; no trash on the floor.
● Yard Waste: The yard waste container is picked up once a week (SUN).
● Lighting: The emergency lights in the east building and garages are being replaced as we receive the fixtures. These new units have a longer battery life and LED bulbs.
● Roof Repairs: Roof repairs (both buildings) are complete.
Homeowners Discussion:
● Exterior Repair: The stucco on both buildings has been inspected and repairs are suggested. The first section on the list will most likely be the east side of the x04 stack. At this time, we don’t have a timeline for when the repairs will begin.
● Security: A member inquired about a tent being set-up in the garage. Our security service notice the tent as well. It has since disappeared. Discussion about a local transient was brought to the memberships attention. This transient has been quietly residing on the Summit Ave steps outside Ambassador I.
Meeting adjourned at 7:43pm.
Next annual meeting is tentatively scheduled for Wednesday, July 11, 2018.
Meeting minutes for July 2017 Board Minutes
https://ambassador2.com
● No home-owners were present at the meeting this month. Meeting was called to order at 6:34pm. The May 2017 minutes were approved as written; no June 2017 minutes, as a quorum had not been met.
Things to Always Remember
● CONTINUED REMINDER TO ALL RESIDENTS: Before proceeding to your parking space or away from the building, please wait for the Summit Ave garage gate to close completely (Rule 3.17).
● WATER SHUT-OFF VALVE: There is a water shut-off valve located above the water heater in every unit. This valve will shut water off to your whole unit and not the building.
● PARKING IN GARAGE: The dentist office spaces are not to be used after hours for guest parking. There is no guest parking in either garage. All parking spaces are assigned. Unauthorized vehicles may be towed without warning at owner’s risk and expense. Non-resident owners, please advise your tenants.
● REGULAR INSPECTIONS: Owners not residing in their unit are encouraged to inspect their unit on a regular basis. Non-resident owners who live out of the area are required by statute to have a local representative to protect their interests.
Treasurer’s Reports
● For period ending May 31, 2017. Bank, Savings and Investment Accounts
Checking: $21,303.41
Washington Federal Replacement / Special Assessment Reserve: $292,907.18
Sound Credit Union Savings: $127,481.29
Umpqua Bank 17-month CD: $238,246.52
Petty Cash: $100.00
Total Assets: $680,038.40
● For period ending June 30, 2017. Bank, Savings and Investment Accounts
Checking: $25,662.47
Washington Federal Replacement / Special Assessment Reserve: $299,777.23
Sound Credit Union Savings: $127,481.29
Umpqua Bank 17-month CD: $238,246.52
Petty Cash: $100.00
Total Assets: $691,267.51
Committee Reports
● At this time, there’s no new information on the residential/commercial structure (#3024635) planned for the east side of the alley. The Redwood Bar is still scheduled to close in November of this year.
Security
● Our security service has found multiple loiterers on the property in the last couple of months. Of course, they’ve asked them to move along. Most of these incidents have been in the night-time hours.
● Residential garage burglaries continue to occur. No report of locker or vehicle burglary in May or June had been sent to the Board. We strongly advise residents to never leave anything in lockers or vehiclesthat one does not wish to lose. Leaving valuables or even non-valuables in plain sight is an invitation for thieves. Non-resident owners, please discuss this continued security issue with your tenants.
Rules
● Recycling reminders : Our rules are identical to the City’s recycling rules. See the City of Seattle’s website for what is recyclable. The insulation or ice packs that come with prepared meal kits are not recyclable.Please place the insulation or ice packs in the garbage bins. Cardboard boxes should be collapsed so that there is room for all 115 units worth of recycling. Flat boxes take up a fraction of the space.
Old Business
● The roof contractor was here the second week of May to repair sections of roof on the east and west buildings.
● Pressure washing of the courtyard, front stairs, and ramp was completed in early June.
New Business.
● We’ve renewed our domain hosting.
● In regards to the upcoming state wide 10-digit phone number dialing, our phone systems were updated years ago to comply with the soon to be mandatory 10-digit dialing.
● A contractor has inspected the stucco on both buildings and sent a report to the Board. We’re in the process of reviewing their findings and will create a plan to maintain the stucco areas of the buildings. This project will be funded through our reserves, as we’ve been planning for this.
● Volunteers are needed to fill two empty positions on the Board. Meetings are scheduled the second Monday of each month. Please consider becoming a board member.
● Some water damage has been detected in the x09 stack. We’re having it inspected shortly to see if it’s an ongoing issue or from a previously repaired leak.
● The annual HOA meeting is Wednesday, July 12th. The annual minutes will be mailed separately.
Meeting adjourned at 7:09pm.
Next Board meeting is scheduled for Monday, August 14, 2017 at 6:30pm in Unit E108.
Ambassador II Condominium Homeowners Association:
506 E Howell St, Seattle, WA 98122 (not our mailing address)
Meeting minutes for May 2017 Board Meeting
https://ambassador2.com
Monday, May 8, 2017
President: Brien Sherman
Vice President: (Vacant)
Treasurer: Jay Heath
Secretary: Shaun Ross
Member At Large: Anand Singla (absent)
Association Manager: Jack Taylor (absent)
Homeowners Forum
● No homeowners were present at the meeting this month.
Meeting was called to order at 6:45pm. The April 2017 minutes were approved as written.
Treasurer’s Reports
● For period ending April 30, 2017.
Bank, Savings and Investment Accounts
Checking: $7,756.10
Washington Federal Replacement / Special Assessment Reserve: $286,038.87
Sound Credit Union Savings: $127,481.29
Umpqua Bank 17-month CD: $238,246.52
Petty Cash: $100.00
Total Assets: $659,622.78
Committee Reports
● No update on the residential/commercial structure (#3024635) planned for the east side of the alley.
Security
● No after hours parking in the dentist office spaces and no parking in any other space that appears to be vacant. All parking spaces are assigned. There are no visitor parking spaces in our garages. Unauthorized vehicles may be towed at owner’s expense and risk without warning. Non-resident owners, please advise your tenants.
● CONTINUED REMINDER TO ALL RESIDENTS: Before proceeding to your parking space or away from the building (Rule 3.17), please wait for the Summit Ave garage gate to close completely.
● Residential garage burglaries continue to occur, however. No report of locker or vehicle burglary in April had been sent to the Board. We strongly advise residents to never leave anything in lockers or vehicles that one does not wish to lose. Leaving valuables or even non-valuables for that matter in plain sight is an invitation for thieves. Non-resident owners, please discuss this continued security issue with your tenants.
Rules
● Recycling reminders : Our rules are identical to the City’s recycling rules. See the City of Seattle website for what is recyclable. Bubble wrap envelopes? Trash! Food containers must be rinsed to the point that one cannot tell what the can, jar or bottle held. Pizza boxes are garbage or yard waste, not recycling.
Old Business
● WATER SHUT-OFF VALVE: There is a main water shut-off valve located above the water heater in every unit. This valve will shut water off to your whole unit and not the building.
● Owners not residing in their unit are encouraged to inspect their unit on a regular basis. Non-resident owners who live out of the area are required by statute to have a local representative to protect their interests.
● Pressure washing rescheduled from late May to June.
New Business
● Two volunteers needed to serve on the HOA Board. We currently have one vacancy with another position opening in June. Interested persons please come to a monthly meeting. Meetings are scheduled the second Monday of each month.
● The roof contractor was here the second week of May to repair sections of roof on the east and west buildings.
● Another possible leak has been detected in the x05 stack. We believe that it may be related to the heavy rain we’ve been having. Once the roof has been repaired, we’ll take a look at the ceiling.
● The 2017-2018 budget has been approved with a 4.5% increase. Details have been sent separately from the minutes.
● The annual HOA meeting has been moved up a month to July. Please mark your calendar for Wednesday, July 12, 2017 to attend another wonderful event.
Meeting adjourned at 7:02pm.
Next Board meeting is scheduled for Monday, June 12, 2017 at 6:30pm in Unit E108.
Ambassador II Condominium Homeowners Association:
506 E Howell St, Seattle, WA 98122 (not our mailing address)
Property Concepts/Jack Taylor: 206-935-7951
Meeting minutes for April 2017 Board Meeting
https://ambassador2.com
Monday, April 10, 2017
President: Brien Sherman
Vice President: (Vacant)
Treasurer: Jay Heath Secretary:
Shaun Ross (absent)
Member At Large: Anand Singla
Association Manager: Jack Taylor
Homeowners Forum
● No homeowner was present this month. Meeting was called to order at 6:40pm. The March, 2017 minutes were approved as written.
Treasurer’s Reports
For period ending March 31st, 2017
Bank, Savings and Investment Accounts
Checking: $28,452.61
Washington Federal Replacement Reserve: $279,170.51
Sound Credit Union Savings: $127,465.58
Umpqua Bank 17 month CD: $237,660.02
Petty Cash: $100.00
Total Assets: $672,849.72
Committee Reports
● No updates from across the alley.
● Several dozen flower bulbs were planted in the courtyard garden to replace the diseased Pieris shrubs and Maple trees. Four Hostas were also added. Funds for these new plants were donated by homeowners.
Security
● No vehicles or lockers were reported broken into this past month.
● Package were rifled and items were stolen this month. Pick up your packages promptly. If possible, have them shipped to a secure address. Boxes left for extended periods are tempting.
Rules
● Recycling reminders: The Ambassador recycling and garbage rules follow City of Seattle requirements. Refer to the City website or the regular mailings for what is considered recycling and what is trash. A recent copy is posted next to the recycling containers.
Old Business
● The wet weather has once again postponed roof repairs. We are in contact with the vendor who is keeping us updated.
● Window and vent cleaning was completed in early April.
● Volunteers wanted to serve on the Board. Please come to a meeting if interested. Meetings are the second Monday of the month. This is a fixed date.
New Business
● Replacement of the emergency lights has begun. All non-functioning hall and garage units have been upgraded with modern LED fixtures. The remainder will be replaced as funds permit.
● All leak repairs are finally complete. Our operating account is severely depleted as a result. Some upgrades and services will be postponed until our operating reserves have been replenished. Fortunately, Ambassador I annual reimbursements are due soon. Once again we encourage non-resident owners to inspect their tenant occupied units on a regular basis.
● It is that time of year when windows are starting to open. Residents with dogs are strongly urged to keep them quiet and under control both inside and outside the unit. There are 64 households in three buildings facing the courtyard who may be disturbed or awakened by barking dogs. The barking is worst in the evening and early morning hours.
● Annual pressure washing of the bridges, walkways, and courtyard will be done sometime in May. Notices will be posted closer to the date. We will be doing this differently this year to save funds. Homeowners or residents with decks are encouraged to clean them at least annually using an environmentally friendly cleaner. Clean decks greatly extend the life of the finish.
● Ambassador I is contemplating a significant exterior repair project. We will update if welearn more.
Meeting concluded at 7:00 pm.
Next Board meeting is scheduled for Monday, May 8, 2016 at 6:30pm in Unit E108.
Ambassador II Condominium Homeowners Association:
506 E Howell St, Seattle, WA 98122 (not mailing address)