Aloha
Welcome to the November 2022 edition of the Makaha Valley Plantation newsletter! The aim of this newsletter is to bring you the latest MVP news, project updates, and help build community here on the westside.
Update on the HOA Voting By Laws
Owners should have received a letter detailing a change to the HOA by-laws that would enable a simpler election process. Unfortunately, through a combination of communication errors and mistakes on the part of our legal counsel, the wrong letter and by-law change was sent out. We apologize for this mistake and will be working to flag issues with our legal counsel earlier in the process so as to avoid this sort of mixup.
You will receive a new letter and voting form soon and, as always, if anything seems amiss please reach out to the board or our property manager!
Happy Halloween In The Valley
It was great to see so many members of our community at our spooky, festive Halloween event! Here are a few of the most delightful trick or treaters here, and make sure to see everyone on the community photos section of the MVP website: https://makahavalleyplantation.org/community/
New Pool Keys
As you’ve hopefully heard we have a new pool key system which is modern and easier to use. Make sure you visit the front office to get your new pool key!
Keeping Your Details Up To Date
Please ensure that the front office has your latest email address and contact information so we can always get in touch with you for news, construction updates, and safety information. Owners should also ensure that you have a local contact in the event that something occurs that needs a local representative to take care of.
Bulky Item Disposal
We’d like to remind all residents that you cannot leave bulky items, such as household furniture, in the trash enclosure areas. Our signs indicate this but still residents leave large awkward items there – if you are caught the fine is $100. When items are left there then our own staff has to take them to the dump, which takes time and money that we would rather be spending on maintenance and serving our community. If items like this are put in the trash then we also get penalized. So please, dispose of your bulky items responsibly and we can all focus on our having an Aloha day.
Smoking Prohibited Signage
A review of the Hawaii Revised Statues 328J 1-12 indicates that MVP should post “Smoking is Prohibited” signs around the complex to be in compliance with the law. The law states, in section 9, that signs shall be clearly and conspicuously posted in and at the entrance to every place open to the public by the owner, operator, manager, or other person in control of that place.
In section 328J-3 it states that areas that are affected by the law include but not limited to Lobbies, hallways, and other common areas in apartment buildings, condominiums, retirement facilities, nursing homes, multifamily dwellings, and another multiple-unit residential facilities.
In section 328J-12 which covers penalties it says the following: A person who owns, manages, operates, or otherwise controls any place or facility designated by this chapter and fails to comply with this chapter shall be guilty of a violation and fined:
(1) Not more than $100 for a first violation.
(2) Not more than $200 for a second violation within one year of the date of the first violation; and
(3) Not more than $500 for each additional violation within one year of the date of the preceding violation.
(g) In addition to the fines established by this section, violation of this chapter by a person who owns, manages, operates, or otherwise controls any place or facility designated by this chapter may result in the suspension or revocation of any permit or license issued to the person or the place for the premises on which the violation occurred.
(h) Each day on which a violation of this chapter occurs shall be considered a separate and distinct violation.
We realize that this will take some adjustment for some but to avoid not being in compliance with the law sets a legal threat to the HOA which we obviously don’t wish to pursue. We appreciate your cooperation in this matter and if you have any questions please reach out.
Preparing For Natural Disasters
As residents of Hawaii we are especially vulnerable to different natural disasters, so it’s incumbent on everyone to plan ahead and a great way to prepare for the unforeseen is to create a 14-Day Disaster Supply Kit. We’ve added this PDF to our website, which you can refer to and learn more information about to ensure that you and your family are secure in the event of an emergency. https://makahavalleyplantation.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/Plan-and-Prepare.pdf
Information for Owners Of Rental Properties
Are you a new owner and considering, or already, renting out your unit in Makaha Valley Plantation? There are a range of local laws and residential codes you’ll need to ensure you’re following, particularly around property management and having an on-island contact, so we encourage you to read this PDF to learn more:
https://makahavalleyplantation.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/For-owners-of-Rental-Properties.pdf
Checking Owner Accounts and Overdue Fees
It is every homeowners responsibility to pay their association fees promptly, as well as citations and other expenses. An overdue account can result in overdue charges and, if left unattended, the costs can rack up! The Board is giving owners 6 months to set up a login with Touchstone and determine if your account is accurate and up to date – otherwise you may find unexpected or unpleasant costs appearing.
To check your account you’ll need to create a login with Touchstone.
- Visit https://www.touchstoneproperties-hawaii.com
- Click View your account or payment history – this will open the SKYLINE dashboard.
- You’ll need to enter a username and password and if this is your first time here you’ll need to call Touchstone on 808-566-4100
- Tell the operator you are signing up for a SKYLINE Dashboard Account and you will be transferred to accounting, and can then request a username and password.
- Once you receive your unique username and password, write it down for future reference, and proceed with your login!
- You can then review your account history and make payments as needed.
If you have any issues with this process please get in touch!
Mahalo,
MVP Board of Directors