As we finish another season in our community and get ready for summer, we wanted to update you on a few issues around Cape Haze (CH). We also want to emphasize and encourage every resident to visit the website, capehaze.org. We are constantly updating the site with CHPOA information and area news. You will need to register to gain access to the member portal.
Community Center (CC) Patio Cover
Last year was the year to catch up on post-Ian maintenance issues. The CC was painted, roof repaired/sealed, exit doors replaced, and AC units replaced. In addition, the new TV has been a big hit for socials and events. For several years, there has been discussion about covering the patio to create more usable space for functions. Expect to hear more about this in the upcoming weeks. Click here to see the latest design concepts for a screened patio covering.
Member Services
Did you know that CHPOA Members have access to services that offer discounts on marine fuel and boat/car detailing! Last year, we added the fuel service that offers delivery right to your driveway or boat lift. Compared to local marinas, the average savings has been over $0.50/gallon. This year, we added a (minimum) $50 discount per detail. After members register on the website, look under “Member Services” to begin saving big bucks. These two services alone will pay for your CHPOA membership! We are always looking to add services or memberships so that being a CHPOA member is even more valuable. Let us know if you have any ideas.
Social Club Changes
We have some exciting changes happening to the CHPOA Social Club (formerly, Women’s Club). CSC voted unanimously this past week to transition to a CHPOA committee! The change will be effective Sep 1, 2024. Click here to see more details.
Deed Restrictions (DR)
Back in 1953, the CH founders set up deed restrictions for all properties in Cape Haze, regardless of your CHPOA membership status. In 1983, the founders assigned the right of DR enforcement to CHPOA. This means that CHPOA (i.e. comprised of CH residents, neighbors, and friends) is responsible for ensuring that the DR are being followed by all of us. Following Hurricane Ian, the decision was made to suspend DR to allow residents the opportunity to get back to normal. After six months, we communicated that the restrictions would begin to be enforced again, managed with grace and understanding. While some residents complied with the mandatory restrictions, many did not. Starting in January of this year, the Board adopted a new enforcement strategy and notified over 30 property owners of violations. Already, many of these have been corrected. Thank you! The DR enforcement process, which was created by our attorney several years ago, includes; postcards, letters, mediation and lawsuit. No one wants to pursue any violation to the fullest extent. Please familiarize with the DR and then review your property to ensure compliance. If you are in a situation where a short-term extension is necessary, please let us know.
Sewers in Cape Haze
By now, you have probably seen the surveyors and engineers in our community. They are doing the preliminary background analysis for a potential future sewer and road project. CHPOA, with the support of many residents, has been meeting with Charlotte County officials since last summer. Last week, Commissioner Joe Tiseo spent over two hours with the community at our membership meeting. He answered many questions and left with a better understanding of our concerns. Click here to get a full summary of the issue as well as a link to the follow-up Commissioner’s meeting that took place this week. This cannot be stressed enough…this decision will impact you! This is not an issue of whether, or not, sewer in Cape Haze is good or bad, but whether, or not, it is the correct option. From the beginning, the conversation has focused on being good environmental stewards and partners with the County on this project. We continue to ask for data that supports the project, while encouraging the County to review their infrastructure to properly handle the additional pressure on their system. This issue has not been settled yet. Please stay informed and get involved.
Miscellaneous
- Each paid CHPOA member is entitled to a community directory. If you are not a member, or a member that would like an additional directory, the cost is $5. Please let Mary Lou know and she will get you one.
- We have had instances of dogs being off-leash on the street, which has led to unpleasant interactions with other dogs and people. While on the street, dogs should always be leashed. This is not just being a considerate neighbor, but it is the law. Also, please pick up after your best friend.
- Our Cape Haze roads are quaint, some may say, narrow or tight. To keep our neighborhood safe, please remember to walk against traffic (left side), bicycle with traffic (right side), use the roundabout in a counter-clockwise direction, and remember the speed limit is 25mph. Thank you.
- As we approach hurricane season, please know that we will keep the website updated with information specific to CH. In the event there is a storm, we will do our best to keep the information flowing.
To all our snowbird neighbors, we wish you safe travel up north and look forward to seeing you in the fall. To all our permanent friends, we hope that your AC & pool filters stay on all summer!
Warm Regards,
Board of Directors
Cape Haze Property Owners Association