Newsletter

Aloha from Makaha Valley Plantation,

Welcome to the MVP April 2024 newsletter. To our existing owners and new owners, we wish you a warm (albeit wintery) welcome!

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. You can setup 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.

1. Visit https://www.touchstoneproperties-hawaii.com
2. Click View your account or payment history – this will open the SKYLINE dashboard.
3. 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
4. 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.
5. Once you receive your unique username and password, write it down for future reference, and proceed with your login!
6. You can then review your account history and make payments as needed.

Election By-Laws Update

Last year we tried to update our Bylaws with a Proposed Voting Amendment. Unfortunately, we fell just shy of the 66% of owner-votes necessary, so we are trying again this year.

Our Bylaws currently require directors be elected at a meeting where (1) a quorum is present and (2) a majority of those present vote in favor of electing that individual. These requirements make it difficult to elect directors because of “quorum-only” proxies. Let’s dig into that…

Imagine a typical annual meeting where we reach 55% quorum, where 40% of owners are attending or have designated their proxy to another owner, and 15% are quorum-only votes. A quorum-only vote is where an owner indicates that the meeting can occur, but they do not assign their voting power to anyone. The best way to think of this is that every quorum-only owner is an empty chair in the room.

That’s helpful to get a meeting to occur but empty-chairs do not vote, yet are included in the overall majority-calculation. The empty chairs are “present” but they abstain from voting.

At our last election we had 55% quorum, which meant a director needed over 27.5% of the vote to be elected (because 55% divided by 2 is 27.5%) – but in practical terms that meant that 67.5% of the real owners (and their designated proxies) present had to vote for a particular candidate. We were fortunate to elect 4 directors this year but when there are many candidates, or the race is close, no-one gets elected and current directors roll over to the next year.

So, with that analogy in mind our By-laws amendment is simply excluding those empty quorum-only chairs from the voting process. In this way we can still get quorum and have the meeting, but when it comes to the voting it’s only actual owners (and designated proxies) that will be counted, thereby making it much easier for directors to achieve a majority and be elected! This change will lead to much more efficient elections and a board that is more representative of the owner’s will. If you have any questions about this, please reach out!

Lanai and Windows Reminder

We’d like to remind owners and tenants of the rules associated with items on lanais and in windows. These rules ensure that owners on higher levels do not adversely affect owners below them and ensures that the entire complex maintains a pleasing and consistent aesthetic. From the house rules:

D3 – No personal items, including but not limited to clothes, towels, bathing apparel, toys, brooms, mops, cartons, shoes slippers, laundry or other objects shall be hung on or from lanais or landing railings, or placed on lanai, doorways, passageways, stairs or landings.

D16 – Window coverings, curtains and drapes shall be white and shall hang at full length at all times with appropriate tie-backs allowed. The requirement applies only to the fabric visible from outside the apartment. Draperies or curtains with separate linings may be in any color so long as the lining is white. No Occupant may use bed sheets, towels, or similar items as drapes or cover the windows with newspaper or aluminum foil. All window coverings shall be kept in good condition at all times.

Thanks for helping us keep MVP beautiful!

Owner’s Portal Update and Insurance Summary

Have you looked at our new Owner’s Portal yet? We have recently added a summary of our insurance policy so you can better understand where your association fees are going! To get a login please contact Jolynn in the front office (email mvpadmin001@hawaii.rr.com) and then login at https://makahavalleyplantation.org/login/

We will continue adding documents to the portal so owners have more and more information about their association.

Thank you for being a member of our wonderful community! If you have any questions or would like to get in touch please feel free to reach out to Chester, our property manager, or your board of directors: www.makahavalleyplantation.org

Mahalo,

The MVP Board of Directors

Aloha from Makaha Valley Plantation,

Welcome to the MVP March 2024 newsletter. To our existing owners and new owners we wish you a warm (albeit wintery) welcome!

Annual Meeting and Election Update

Thanks to all of the owners who were able to attend (from as far as Oregon!) our annual meeting. We are happy to report that we were able to successfully elect 4 board members: Andrew Clark, Jim Waldon and Patrick Muldowney will continue to serve on your board. We’re also glad to add Bobbi Mothes to the board, who brings a strong history in law and tax which will surely be a great value to our association.

Going forward Jim Waldon will serve as President, Lawrence (Larry) Moore will serve as Vice President, Greg Sokolowski will serve as Treasurer, and Bobbi Mothes will serve as Secretary. As always you can contact your board or learn more about how the association operates at https://makahavalleyplantation.org/association/

Aloha from Bobbi Mothes

My name is Bobbi Mothes and I would like to say big mahalos for electing me to your Board. I will be the new Secretary, and I look forward to serving for the next year. For those who don’t know me, I have lived at Makaha Valley Plantation since December 2017, and I love it here! You may see me walking around with my dachshund Ser Douglas Cinnamon Raisin Toast (picture below). If you see us, please stop and tell Ser he is cute – if he doesn’t get his daily socials he is insufferable!

In a past life I was an attorney, and when I left the practice of law I transitioned to education and earned a Masters degree in special education (5 years New York City, 3 years Waianae HS—go Seariders!)

Now that I am “fully retired” I use my law degree to write about tax law and other legal topics. I don’t do well with too much free time, and tax law is really boring, so here I am volunteering to help out! This is familiar territory for me, as I spent many years volunteering with the PTA when my daughter was small, and several years with other volunteer organizations.

I hope to help our Board solve any problems that come up, and keep MVP a great place to live. Mahalo!

Ser Douglas Cinnamon Raisin Toast

Introducing the Owner’s Portal

We are excited to introduce the Makaha Valley Plantation Owner’s Portal. This is an owner’s-only section of our website that provides secure access to a growing number of documents that cannot be publicly provided such as financial reports, annual meeting notes and bylaws declarations. Over time we will expand this section and provide further documents. If there is a particular item you are interested in then please reach out and we’ll see if we can provide it!

So how do you access the owner’s portal? First you’ll then need to contact Jolynn at the front office and request an account. Her email is mvpadmin001@hawaii.rr.com. Once you’ve been verified as an owner we’ll let you know so you can reset your password, and then you have access! Login at https://makahavalleyplantation.org/login/ – your home for all things MVP!

This is a Beta release so if you have any issues, concerns or questions then please get in touch!

Kathy and Tommy’s Retirement

We’d like to thank Kathy and Tommy Sowell for their years of service on the MVP board. It is their hard work and dedication to this community that has led to Makaha Valley Plantation being the beautiful, harmonious and highly valued community that it is today. Thank you Kathy and Tommy and we hope they have a fabulous and adventurous retirement. Mahalo!

Chicken update and Security Reminder

Our grounds team has been diligently working to remove roosters, hens, and as many eggs as possible. Totals for 2024 alone are 21 roosters, 21 hens, and 365 eggs – that’s a lot of omelettes! This helps but does not solve the chicken problem so we are currently trialing setting traps each week – this allows us to more consistently remove chickens, without taking too much time from our staff’s other duties.

If you do see someone feeding the chickens (or stray cats) then please contact security. If you have a photo of an offender then please also contact security as this can help in the citations and fining process.

Wash Machine Update

Our new WASH Laundry machines have been installed and are running well! If you haven’t already done so download the WASH app so you can add credit, remotely check machine availability, and have a much better washing experience. If you have any technical issues or are having trouble with the WASH app please get in touch with the front office!

Mahalo for being part of the MVP community! Your cooperation and engagement contribute to making Makaha Valley Plantation a wonderful place to call home.

– MVP Board of Directors

Aloha from Makaha Valley Plantation,

Welcome to the February 2024 edition of the Makaha Valley Plantation (MVP) newsletter! Whether you’re a new resident or a familiar face, we’re thrilled to have you with us. Let’s dive into the updates and news that make our community special.

Washer and Dryer Update

Exciting news! New laundry equipment from WASH is being installed across all MVP locations. Enjoy an enhanced washing experience, complete with the convenience of the new WASH mobile app. You can easily add credit and even check machine availability without leaving your home. Please remember that the hours of operation for the washrooms is 7am to 10pm

General Meeting and Quorum Packet

As we embark on the new year, our annual association meeting is on the horizon. Keep an eye on your mail for the essential election packet. If you haven’t received it or suspect any issues with association correspondence, please reach out to Touchstone to ensure your mailing address is up to date. Every quorum vote and proxy matter, so let’s make our voices heard!

Date: Saturday, March 2, 2024
Time: 9:00 a.m. Registration; 9:30 a.m. Call to Order
Place: Waianae Coast Comprehensive Health Center, Dining Pavilion, 86-260 Farrington Hwy, Waianae, HI 96792

We’re excited to gather, share updates about Makaha Valley Plantation, and there are seven board positions up for election. Looking forward to seeing you there!

Mini Split Air Conditioning Survey

MVP is exploring the potential demand of Mini-Split Air Conditioners in preparation for EV system and electrical upgrades. Your valuable feedback on this matter is crucial, as it directly impacts the design of the PV system to handle peak summer demand. Reach out to the board if you have questions, and please take a moment to share your thoughts through our survey:

https://forms.gle/VwFNqnPjxW8WKbW16

Electrical Vehicles and Public Charging Survey

We wanted to again solicit owner feedback on the prospect of having EV chargers, either in public stalls or in residents’ stalls. The demand within our community (and appetite for paying for these amenities) has an effect on the design of our PV systems and electrical infrastructure. If you are thinking of buying an EV in the next few years let us know below!

https://forms.gle/txtNzj3okUbYUQWdA

Jacuzzi Updates

Our jacuzzi replacement and pool deck re-painting is scheduled to begin on Feb 12th. These will continue for a couple of months and begin with the Ala Mahiku jacuzzi and pool. Kiana will still be operational so we look forward to seeing you there!

Don’t feed the animals – increases in fines coming soon!

In the spirit of Aloha, we kindly remind everyone to refrain from feeding stray cats, chickens and peacocks on our shared property. Not only is it a violation of our bylaws, but it also risks the health of our community, not to mention possible citations and fines. Please respect your friends and neighbors, as our staff diligently works on capturing chickens and finding solutions for stray cats. If you observe someone feeding the animals, report it to the front office, anonymously if preferred. Unfortunately, this is becoming a greater and greater issue and we will soon be increasing the fines for this behaviour.  Together, let’s ensure the health and cleanliness of our beloved community!

Mahalo for being part of the MVP community! Your cooperation and engagement contribute to making Makaha Valley Plantation a wonderful place to call home.

Mahalo from the MVP Board of Directors

Aloha, Makaha Valley Plantation!

As we step into the first month of 2024, we extend a warm aloha to both our new and familiar MVP residents. Welcome to the January edition of our community newsletter, where we share updates and news that connect us all.

Election Bylaws Update

Unfortunately the amendment to change our election voting process did not pass.  We ended up with a 58% owner participation, which is pretty good, but we need 67% owner participation for amendments like this. It’s important that we get this amendment passed as it greatly enhances community participation and makes it much easier to elect new (or existing) board members, so we will be reintroducing the amendment at our January meeting. You may have already a new voting letter. There also seemed to be some confusion about exactly what this amendment meant so we will be working to explain it more clearly in this coming year. As ever if you have any questions about this amendment please get in touch as we are happy to clarify!

EV Survey

MVP is embracing sustainability with our Solar PV project, and your input is invaluable! The EV Survey is a crucial step in exploring options for EV chargers in public spaces and personal parking stalls. With 35 responses already received, we’re gaining insightful perspectives on what our community desires in terms of EV charging solutions.

If you haven’t shared your thoughts yet, please take a moment to fill out the survey here: https://forms.gle/ni1sETA9JNnQo56R9

Your contribution will play a vital role in shaping the future of sustainable transportation in our community.

Washer and Dryer Changeover

Exciting changes are underway as we usher in the new year with a Washer and Dryer Changeover. Our agreement with WASH brings upgraded laundry equipment, scheduled for installation in the 3rd and 4th week of January. While we continue to charge $1.75 per load until the new machines are in place, the cost will increase to $2.00 per load post-installation, aligning with enhanced capabilities and efficiencies.

As we transition to a new card and app system please use your existing WASH card balance and run it down close to zero. That ensures that you won’t be stuck with an unusable balance once the new facilities are installed!

Personal Washer/Dryers and Renovation Forms

A friendly reminder to our MVP ohana: personal washers and dryers cannot be installed as per our agreement with WASH. If renovations or construction are on your horizon, contact the front office and submit an application/permit before commencing any internal work. This ensures the safety and stability of our shared homes and prevents issues related to leaks, flooding, or damage from improper construction work.

Mahalo for being an essential part of our Makaha Valley Plantation community. Your engagement and cooperation make MVP a vibrant and thriving place to call home. Wishing you all a prosperous and joy-filled start to 2024.

Mahalo from the MVP Board of Directors

Aloha and happy holidays! As we embrace the beauty of December 2023 on the westside, we extend a warm welcome to both new and longtime residents. This month’s newsletter is filled with updates and valuable information that we hope will enhance your experience here in our vibrant community. Mahalo for being part of the MVP family!

Water Conservation

As we all know costs at MVP have gone up this year. Under common water we are setting aside $231,646 and for common sewer we are setting aside $509,472.  As of September of 2023 we have spent $180,650 for common water and we have already spent $371,110 for common sewer. None of us are happy about passing those on to owners so conserving water could reduce this amount significantly and would be environmentally friendly.

Here are some tips for conserving water:

1. If you are leaving your unit for more that a week turn off your water valves.  I know a few people who returned to their units to find a slow leak in their toilet water tank.  Aside from the danger of causing damage to your, or others’ unit, this can add up. A dripping faucet can use 2 to 20 gallons of water per day, which could add up to 60 to 600 gallons per month. With a large complex like ours you can imagine just how enormous that water wastage can be!
2. Install low volume toilets. Toilets account for about 30 percent of a household’s water use. Standard toilets use about 7 gallons per flush, while low-flow toilets use about 1.6 gallons per flush – a great saving!
3. Check for leaks.  Sometimes these can go undetected if behind the wall. If you suspect, there is a leak please contact MVP office so that we can do an inspection.

There are many other ways to save water and if you have any additional ideas, we would love to hear about it!

An update to Cable Billing

In 2022 the cable bill was incorporated in the maintenance the reason being it provided only the require basic cable which consisted of about 20 channels.  If you wanted the internet or additional programs, you had to pay for it separately.  Out of maintenance we were paying around $49, a household a month.  Most people who had added additional cable channels and the internet were paying over $100 per month outside the maintenance.  When we negotiated the new contract, we got much a faster system so now we can stream channels you couldn’t before. The internet is included in the package and now we get over 100 channels to view.  The cost went up to from $49.00 to $54.84 a month to the HOA which is less than $6.00 per household but for those that use the additional service was a cost saving of $50 or more.

Now for the more complicated matter.  Most units are two bedrooms and one bath.  But there are a handful of three-bedroom one bath and there are a couple of three bedroom one and a half baths townhouses.  They have a slightly larger share of ownership in the complex.   With that their share of the cost increases slightly in all the categories than say a two-bedroom unit.

Since the HOA is being charged a flat fee for every unit and not due to their size or number of bedrooms it was determined that a flat fee should be charged to all the units as well.  To do that we had to separate the charge from the other expenses.  That is why you see that in the upcoming maintenance fee.  It may look like we are adding that much more to our maintenance, but we are taking out what we used to pay which turns out to be a small increase with much more benefits.

EV Survey

As part of the Solar PV project we are looking at options related to EV chargers, both in public stalls and helping owners install chargers at their parking stall. We first need to find out if our community is even interested in EVs or planning on buying an EV as that will help us understand what solution will best serve our community. Please take a moment and fill out this survey and let us know what you think: https://forms.gle/8QDoyGFC4RBhHtfd6

Heat Pumps and Solar Thermal Updates

We have been working closely with Heliodyne Solar Hot Water and PACE Supply Corp. on the solar thermal system and heat pumps. We provided them with current drawings of the wash houses, as this is where the current and future heat pumps and solar water systems will be located.

PACE will be conducting a site inspection to determine the placement of two additional water tanks and the current heat pumps. This inspection is scheduled to take place in the first week of December. After the inspection, PACE and Heliodyne will work together to design and prepare a quote for Hawaii Unified and MVP to review.

Update on the PV system

Holu Hou Energy is working with HECO to determine the capacity of the transformers in and around the MVP complex. These studies are necessary to determine if the existing transformers have sufficient capacity, or if additional capacity is needed. The results of these studies will also have a bearing on the batteries that will be used.

HECO has been slow in responding to request from Holu Hou Energy due to the numerous lawsuits from the Lahaina fire.  Their engineering department has been overwhelmed with various studies to prove their stance in the cases.  We hope to have all the information needed by the end of December.  Will get an update from Holu Hou Energy in January.

As we conclude this newsletter, we’d like to express our heartfelt thanks for your continued support and engagement. Your participation and enthusiasm make our community truly special!

Wishing you a joyous holiday season filled with warmth, unity, and aloha spirit!

With gratitude,

The MVP Board of Directors

Makaha Valley Plantation Community Newsletter – November 2023 Edition

Aloha to all our residents of Makaha Valley Plantation – both new and long-standing members of our vibrant community! As we embrace the beautiful month of November, we’re excited to share with you some important updates and friendly reminders in our monthly newsletter. Mahalo for taking the time to stay informed and connected with our community happenings!

Progress on Hot Water System Upgrades

MVP has engaged in discussions with a vendor, coordinated by Hawaii Unified, to provide a solar thermal system and replace our heat pumps. They’ve posed several important questions to help us appropriately size the system for both the current and future needs of the complex. MVP houses a diverse range of homeowners, each with unique usage demands. While some units are occupied only a few months annually, others house relatively large families living year-round. One key aspect we need to determine is the amount of hot water consumed in the complex. Currently, we monitor overall water usage without distinguishing between hot and cold water consumption. Understanding whether usage is seasonal is another aspect we aim to clarify to offer accurate and useful feedback.

Regarding the solar thermal system, we’ve learned that it cannot be integrated with the heat pumps but can operate in tandem with them. This necessitates adding more tanks to the washhouses, and we are currently discussing potential locations for these additions. The advantage of the solar thermal system is its ability to reduce reliance on our electrically powered heat pumps, as it’s primarily solar-driven.

As for the heat pumps, we are in the process of sourcing them and are awaiting a quote detailing the cost to the investor and the timeline for delivery and installation. Rest assured, we will provide further information on these developments in the coming months.

Washer and Dryer Update

In April, our new agreement with WASH came into effect, bringing notable changes to MVP. One significant shift is in the revenue we receive to offset the expenses of providing utilities for the laundry equipment. Previously at 40%, our share has now increased to 63.85%. This boost in revenue will help in managing our communal utilities more effectively.

The new laundry equipment has been ordered and is scheduled for installation in January 2024. Until the upgraded machines are in place, we will continue charging $1.75 per load for washing or drying. Once the new equipment is installed, the cost per load will rise to $2.00. This increase is necessary to align with the enhanced capabilities and efficiencies of the new equipment.

Our initial hope was for an earlier delivery and installation date. However, we’ve encountered delays due to broader supply chain issues, including chip shortages and heightened demand on the manufacturer. These external factors have inevitably affected our timeline.

We’re excited about the prospect of more efficient laundry facilities and believe this will greatly benefit our community. We look forward to sharing more updates in the upcoming months.

Update on PV System and Charging Stations

MVP has been actively engaging with Holu Hou Energy and Hawaii Energy to explore viable solutions for providing electric vehicle (EV) charging stations. Built between 1974-1976, our complex wasn’t designed for the electrical demands we encounter today, particularly for EV charging. Upgrading our electrical infrastructure is essential for this endeavor, and we’re gathering data to inform our planning and make incremental improvements.

Economic considerations are also at the forefront. Equipping each unit with a charging station outlet is a costly venture, and the potential return on investment is uncertain. To gauge interest, we plan to conduct surveys. Our diverse community includes senior citizens, young professionals working remotely, investors owning most units, and some residents on government assistance. Their interest in EV charging stations varies, so these surveys will be crucial in our decision-making process.

One proposal involves setting up public charging stations, which is why we’re in discussions with Hawaii Energy, a government organization that could assist us in this setup. The plan is to start with a few stations for use by homeowners and guests. However, finding suitable locations for these stations is challenging, given our limited parking space and the need for equitable access across the complex.

Regulating station use is another topic under consideration. Proposals include increasing charging rates after a certain period to encourage turnover or having the system shut off and become unavailable to the same user ID until the next day. Implementing a sign-up sheet was also suggested, but this would require significant monitoring.

Holu Hou Energy is also liaising with HECO to obtain schematics and data for the system integration. We’ll provide more details on this progress in our upcoming newsletters.

Living with Aloha by the Pool

We cherish the harmony and respect that define our community at Makaha Valley Plantation. Recently, however, there have been incidents of vandalism and harassment around our pool area. We kindly remind everyone to abide by the pool rules to ensure a safe and pleasant environment for all. Familiarize yourself with the house rules available at makahavalleyplantation.org/forms/. Let’s work together to avoid the necessity for citations and fines. Remember, living together means living with Aloha.

Your Voice in Our Community – Election Bylaws Amendment

We are in the critical final two weeks of voting on our Election Bylaws amendment. Achieving the 66% threshold required to change our bylaws is essential for ensuring our Board of Directors accurately represents our diverse community. This amendment will facilitate easier election and re-election processes for board members. If you haven’t cast your vote yet, please do so as soon as possible by contacting the front office. Your participation is vital for our community’s progress.

Responsible Trash Disposal

A friendly reminder to all MVP residents: our communal garbage bins are not intended for bulky items like furniture. Disposing of such items improperly not only violates community guidelines but also incurs additional costs for the association – a cost shared by all. Please be considerate and dispose of large items responsibly to help keep our community clean and our expenses in check.

Maintenance Fee Update

We would like to inform our residents about an upcoming change to the maintenance fees. Despite our best efforts to maintain the fees at their current level, the realities of inflation and rising insurance costs have made an increase unavoidable. The Board of Directors has worked tirelessly to minimize the impact of this. We encourage all residents to review the updated budget carefully and feel free to reach out with any questions or concerns. We appreciate your understanding as we navigate these challenging economic times together.

As we conclude this edition of our newsletter, we want to extend a heartfelt Mahalo to everyone in our community for your ongoing support and cooperation. Remember, the strength of Makaha Valley Plantation lies in our collective effort to maintain a welcoming, respectful, and vibrant community. Should you have any questions or need assistance, the MVP Board of Directors is always here to help.

Mahalo from the MVP Board of Directors!

Aloha MVP Residents,

We extend a warm welcome to both our new and existing residents as we dive into the October 2023 edition of the MVP newsletter. While we cherish the vibrant community spirit that binds us together, we must also acknowledge the recent tragedy in Maui, which continues to weigh heavily on our hearts. In light of this, we want to reassure everyone that the safety and well-being of our community is our top priority. With this in mind, we are actively addressing concerns related to fire safety to ensure our beloved MVP remains a secure and serene haven for all.

Feeding Feral Cats

It has come to our attention that some residents are still feeding feral cats within our community. While we understand the compassion behind this act, it’s essential to recognize that this well-intentioned gesture can have unintended consequences. Feeding feral cats not only disrupts the local ecosystem but also poses potential health risks, particularly for our young and elderly residents. Cat Scratch Disease, a severe bacterial infection, can result from cat scratches. To safeguard the health and hygiene of our community, we kindly request that you refrain from feeding these cats. Your cooperation is vital in maintaining a safe environment for all.

PV Solar Project Meeting Update

We extend our heartfelt thanks to all the owners who attended our recent information meeting about the PV Solar Project. Your participation and engagement were greatly appreciated. Here are some key takeaways from the meeting:

• Ted emphasized the crucial role of solar and battery storage systems in emergency situations, highlighting their effectiveness during the recent Maui fires.
• The installation of solar panels and battery storage will enhance our community’s resilience during power outages, ensuring access to electricity, refrigeration, and lighting in emergencies.
• This project aligns with Hawaii’s sustainability efforts, contributing to reducing our community’s carbon footprint.
• Regarding funding, it’s important to note that the roofing project is being paid for by the investors of the project, and not sourced from the HOA reserves.
• Concerns about the appearance of solar panels were addressed, assuring a low-profile, sleek design.

Prioritizing Fire Safety

As we navigate through the scorching summer, our collective concern for fire safety takes center stage. We took proactive steps by inviting the fire captain and fire inspectors to assess our property and review our fire procedures. Their evaluation indicated that our existing fire plan is robust, requiring no immediate modifications. Following a thorough walkthrough of the property, a few areas identified for improvement have been promptly addressed by our tree trimmers. If you have any further concerns or questions about our fire safety measures, please don’t hesitate to reach out.

Feeding Animals

We kindly request the community’s cooperation in refraining from feeding local wildlife and stray animals. This practice can lead to several concerns such as unpleasant odors, spoiled food, and creates difficulties for our staff in maintaining a clean environment. If you happen to notice a neighbor engaging in this behavior, we encourage you to inform our front office so that we can address the situation appropriately. It’s important to remember that not everyone is aware of the challenges associated with feeding animals, so let’s foster a harmonious living environment together.

Dog Doo Doo Don’ts

The issue of unattended dog waste on our sidewalks persists! We kindly remind all residents to be diligent in cleaning up after their beloved furry companions. If you are aware of a neighbor who may not be as attentive to this responsibility, please don’t hesitate to contact our front office. By identifying and addressing this concern, we can politely remind everyone that we share the same pathways within our community.

In closing, we want to express our gratitude for your continued support and involvement in making MVP a thriving and secure community. Your commitment to our shared well-being is what makes MVP a truly special place to call home.

Mahalo from the MVP Board of Directors

Aloha Makaha Valley Plantation Residents!

Welcome to the August edition of the MVP Newsletter! As we navigate through the sweltering summer days, we hope you’re finding ways to beat the heat. Please remember to exercise caution with open flames and cigarettes, ensuring the safety of our vibrant community.

HO6 Resolution Passed – Proof of Insurance Due

We’re thrilled to announce the successful passage of the HO6 insurance resolution—a significant achievement benefiting our entire community. To ensure seamless implementation, we kindly request every owner to submit their “proof of insurance” by August 1st.
If you haven’t already, please obtain a copy of your insurance from your provider and email it to HO6@insuringhawaii.com and chester@touchstoneproperties-hawaii.com. Also, you may want to have your insurance company add Insurance Associates as additional interest on your policy so that they receive it yearly.
 
Insurance Associates Inc.
800 Bethel St. #200
Honolulu, HI 96813

Your cooperation is essential to avoid additional HOA fees. Questions? Don’t hesitate to reach out.

Update on Election By Laws

Our ongoing efforts to enhance our election procedure bylaws are in full swing. We invite all owners who haven’t yet submitted their votes to participate and help shape a more representative and community-driven election process. Time is running out, so please connect with Chester from Touchstone Properties or visit the front office to ensure your voice is heard.

Supporting Lahaina Fire Victims

Our hearts go out to those affected by the devastating fires in Lahaina. Let’s come together as a tight-knit Hawaii community and offer our support during these challenging times. Stay safe and extend a helping hand to those in need.

Stay Connected with Free Internet

Did you know that your HOA fees include a complimentary internet and cable package from Spectrum? Enjoy services like Spectrum TV® Select, Entertainment and Sports View, Spectrum Internet® Ultra 500 mbps with Wi-Fi (including a FREE Modem and Router), and two HD DVR Boxes. If you haven’t made the switch yet, contact Spectrum’s Bulk customer care line at 1-855-326-5115. If you get stuck feel free to reach out to us and we can help you get your free internet!

Update On Our Hot Water Heaters

We’re committed to enhancing your living experience here at MVP. We’re currently exploring options to upgrade or replace our hot water heater system to provide you with better comfort and efficiency. Keep an eye out for updates as we strive to elevate our community’s amenities.

Paws and Reflect (Cleaning up after our dogs)

Let’s maintain the harmony and beauty of our community by looking out for one another. Remember, we have strict guidelines in place for pet owners to clean up after their furry companions. It’s a small action that makes a big difference in keeping our surroundings clean and pleasant for everyone. By taking responsibility, we create a more joyful and Aloha-filled environment for all.

We extend our sincere appreciation to each one of you for making Makaha Valley Plantation a wonderful place to call home. Thank you for your continued support, and remember, your MVP Board of Directors is here for you.

Mahalo and warm regards,
The MVP Board of Directors

Aloha MVP Residents!

Greetings to all our wonderful new and existing residents of Makaha Valley Plantation (MVP)! As we bask in the summer sunshine, we’re reminded of how fortunate we are to call this beautiful community on the west side of Oahu our home, with the beach just a stone’s throw away. We hope you’re all enjoying the season and the vibrant spirit of our tight-knit community. This month’s newsletter brings some exciting updates and important reminders to keep our MVP living experience exceptional.

H06 Resolution Passed: Don’t Forget to Submit Proof of Insurance!

Great news! The H06 insurance resolution has been successfully passed, benefiting the entire community. However, to proceed with the next steps, we need “proof of insurance” from every owner by August 1st. If you haven’t done so already, please provide your insurance information by emailing H06@insuringhawaii.com and chester@touchstoneproperties-hawaii.com. If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to reach out.

Update on PV System

We’re thrilled to share significant progress on our long-awaited PV system! Designing and implementing such a system in our vast multi-family complex posed several challenges, especially with the unexpected hurdles brought on by the pandemic, supply chain issues, and changing laws. But fear not, we’ve found a path forward!

Partnering with Holu Hou Energy, a company known for their patented multi-family project system, and Hawaii Unified, we are on the verge of a groundbreaking solution. Their expertise has been demonstrated in the successful completion of the Koa’e Makana multi-family complex on Kuai, and they’re gearing up to apply the same technology to 5,000 military homes across the islands.

Holu Hou Energies will handle the design and engineering, while Hawaii Unified will manage the installation. Progress is already underway, with engineers on our property setting up a schedule for the design work and permitting process. Permits are expected to be secured by the end of the year.

With our community’s concerns in mind, we’re also focusing on the condition of our heat pumps, aiming to prioritize upgrades for a more reliable source of hot water. Stay tuned for further updates as we make strides towards a greener and more sustainable future!

Election By Laws Update

We’re still in the process of amending our election procedure bylaws to make the process smoother, more representative, and aligned with our community’s desires. But we need your active participation! If you haven’t already, please cast your votes to elect new members and shape the future of MVP.

To submit your vote, reach out to Chester from Touchstone Properties or visit the front office. Your engagement ensures a strong and vibrant community leadership!

Responsible Disposal of Bulky Items

Let’s maintain the beauty of our community by properly disposing of bulky items, furniture, toilets, mattresses, and construction materials. Dumping them at the trash bin enclosures not only creates eyesores but also burdens our hardworking staff. Be a responsible resident and utilize proper facilities for disposal. Together, we’ll keep our surroundings clean and pristine!

Supporting Our Chicken Catching Program

To address the overpopulation of chickens, we’re ramping up our chicken-catching program. The captured chickens and eggs will be thoughtfully relocated to a local farm. We kindly request that you refrain from feeding the chickens and other animals. Doing so creates challenges and uncleanliness for everyone. Let’s work together to maintain a harmonious living environment.

As we conclude this newsletter, we extend a heartfelt “Mahalo” to all MVP residents for being an essential part of this vibrant community. Your cooperation, engagement, and friendly spirit are what make our home truly special.

Mahalo from the MVP Board of Directors.

Aloha,

Welcome to the June edition of our community newsletter, “MVP Connections”! We extend a warm greeting to both our new and existing residents. It’s a pleasure to come together and share the latest updates and important information that affect our vibrant community here on the west side of Oahu.

H06 Resolution Update

The MVP Board is thrilled to announce the successful passing of the H06 Resolution! Mahalo to our diligent front office for going above and beyond, contacting homeowners and gathering votes to approve this vital By-Laws change. This new requirement ensures that homeowners purchase H06 insurance, providing comprehensive coverage for their condos and neighboring units in the event of any damage. We express our deepest gratitude to all homeowners for their invaluable support in getting this amendment passed.

Shaping Our Community, One Vote at a Time

We are still in the process of seeking votes to amend our election procedure bylaws, a significant step towards fostering a more representative process and reflecting our community’s desires. Our aim is to make electing new members and conducting smoother elections a reality. The deadline for submitting your vote is approaching soon, so we urge all homeowners who have not yet done so to reach out to Chester from Touchstone Properties or visit the front office to cast your vote. Let’s come together and shape the future of our community through active participation.

Keeping Our Information Updated

It has come to our attention that changes to homeowners’ addresses and emails are not accurately reflected in Touchstone’s directory of homeowners. To address this, we kindly request that each homeowner takes the initiative to update their information directly with Touchstone. This will help prevent any delays in communication and ensure that everyone stays informed. We understand that changes in ownership and personal contact details can occur, but by promptly updating your information, we can maintain a seamless flow of important announcements. Let’s work together to avoid any challenges, especially when it comes to future billing of electricity. Your cooperation is greatly appreciated.

Guidelines for Unit Projects

Let’s address a common misconception among homeowners that may lead to misunderstandings. It is not accurate to assume that we can do whatever we want to our units without any restrictions. Before initiating any projects within your unit, it’s crucial to review and comply with the necessary documents provided on MVP’s website. These documents outline the process that needs to be completed, reviewed, and approved before starting any kind of projects. Let’s ensure that all projects undertaken align with our community guidelines and maintain the harmony we value. Your adherence to these guidelines will contribute to a safe and enjoyable environment for all.

We’re Online!

Did you know that our website, www.makahavalleyplantation.org, is a treasure trove of useful information? It contains essential details such as front office contact information, house rules, pet registration forms, construction forms, and even a map of the property. Take a moment to explore our website and discover more about our wonderful community. It’s a valuable resource at your fingertips!

Communication and Community

If you have any questions or concerns, please reach out to our property manager, Chester Reeves, the front office, or the board directly. You can find all the contact details for the front office and management at: https://makahavalleyplantation.org/contact/

The email addresses of the Board of Directors are also available at https://makahavalleyplantation.org/association/. We believe in the importance of community and open communication, so please don’t hesitate to contact us if you have any inquiries!

Mahalo,

MVP Board of Directors