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Community Newsletter
Spring 2015
Issue Index
Informational Meeting...……………..…Pg 1
Fishing Derby………....……………...…Pg 1
Prez Plain Talk.……………………..…..Pg 2
Governing Documents Update..…........Pg 2
CallFire...……………..…….……….......Pg 2
Clearwood Finances...…….…………...Pg 3
Clearwood Community Garage Sale....Pg 3
What’s New at the Clearwood Office....Pg 3
Wells Update……………….……………Pg 4
Loose, Lost, Strayed, or Spayed….......Pg 4
Stamp Out Vandalism…….…………....Pg 4
Budget……….…………………...…..….Pg 5
2015 Resolutions and Candidates.…...Pg 7
Clearwood Pool Update………………..Pg 8
Mossy Roofs.….…………...……….…...Pg 8
Noxious Weeds in Clearwood..…….….Pg 9
Town Hall Meeting……………...….......Pg 9
Community Property Committee….....Pg 10
It’s Spring Cleaning Time……….…....Pg 10
Out and About…………...………...…..Pg 11
Landscaping on Community Property.Pg 11
Things To Do…...………...……….…..Pg 11
INFORMATIONAL MEETING
MAY 16th, 2015 RIECHEL BEACH at 9am
LAST CHANCE! for MEMBER INPUT on Ballot Issues
SIGN UP to Write PROS & CONS for Ballot Issues
Two Board of Directors Seats Open this Year: HEAR THE CANDIDATES
Discuss the PROPOSED 2016 BUDGET
WATER SYSTEM-NEW WELL TEST DRILL Update
OPEN MIC
FREE REFRESHMENTS Coffee and Cookies
VOLUNTEER SIGN UPS AND MORE....
BUY your Clearwood Rocks or Clearwood 8 th Man T-Shirt
BRING A LAWN CHAIR
See the 2016 Proposed Budget Summary on Page 5 and
the lists of Resolutions and Candidates on Page 7
Copies of the DRAFT Resolutions and the detailed 2016
Proposed Budget are available at the office or on line at
www.clearwood-yelm.com
Fun
for
APRIL 25, 2015
CLEARWOOD FISHING DERBY
WHERE: Horseshoe Lake
SIGN IN TIME: 6:45am
DERBY HOURS: 7am -2pm
PRIZES:
Tagged Lunker: $100.00
1st Longest:
$25.00
2nd Longest:
$25.00
 NO boats allowed on Horseshoe Lake the day of the derby.
 Please limit your creel to 5 fish per angler; this will extend the
“catching” season for all to enjoy later in the year.
 All fish must be caught between 7am and 2pm the day of the derby.
 Prizes will be handed out at 2:10pm.
BEVERAGES PROVIDED:
Coffee, Hot Chocolate,
Cookies and Muffins
Clearwood Newsletter Spring 2015, Page 1
the
Whole
Family
Prez Plain Talk
By Linda Doucette
Hi All,
Spring is here, although it seems like it has been here all winter. I see people out mowing their
lawns and digging in their gardens with flowers blooming everywhere. This is a great time of
year to continue our work to better the community. In this spirit, we have made progress on
several projects.
Key is the well project, which is proving challenging; but we are moving ahead in an organized fashion. Led by our engineers and
consultants, we have dealt with the disappointing results of the first test well and have moved on. More details to follow.
Another key project involves the pool repair and resurfacing project, which continues on schedule with the pool opening set for
Memorial Day weekend.
Also important is the office re-organization, which will eventually include three new computers for the office staff and one for the
staff at the maintenance facility. We would like to thank Casey, who has worked on the maintenance staff for several years and
has moved on to another opportunity. Best of luck!
We would also like to thank Tom Bies for his service on the board and welcome Cindy Childs, who has filled his position for the
remainder of his term. The board, committees and community are working hard to prepare for the busy spring schedule of
events. I would like to remind everyone of the May Informational meeting set for May 16 th at Reichel beach at 9:00 AM. Coffee
and cookies will be available. This all leads to the election and Annual Meeting set for August 15 th at Reichel Beach.
In closing, I would like to recommend that you review our newly updated By-Laws (yellow book) and Rules and Regulations (red
book), that are now on the web page. Hard copies are available at the office. These now contain all previous resolutions passed
Updated Governing Documents Available
by Marilyn Budde
RESOLUTION NO. 2011-03-010 states that:
Policies included in the Bylaws and the By-Laws Addendum (Rules and Regulations) shall be reviewed at least every four (4)
years and shall be immediately updated upon the effective date of new amendments approved by the membership.
In order to comply with this resolution, the By-Laws and Rules and Regulations (Red Book) have been updated and approved by
the Board. Resolutions to approve these updates will be included in the August ballot. Amendments come directly from
resolutions previously approved by membership between 2007 and 2014; and membership WILL be voting on whether
amendments have accurately been incorporated into the governing documents. Membership WILL NOT be re-voting on whether
they agree with the individual resolutions. The Clearwood By-Laws and Rules and Regulations (Red Book) are now available at the
office, on the web, and will be available the May Informational Meeting.
All amendments in the documents are underlined and have a superscript that corresponds to the resolution that causerd the
change. A list of the resolutions with superscripts is on the back cover of each document. In addition, a Directory of Resolutions
with complete text of each of the resolutions is available on the web.
Once the updated documents have been approved by the membership, all underlines, superscripts, and the resolution list on the
back will be removed. The document will be approved by the Board, and it will be posted to the web and made available at the
office. After each of the next 4 elections, updates will be made and approved by the Board; then they will be posted to the web
and made available at the office. In the fourth year, the updated documents will be submitted to membership for approval. This
process should enable us to keep our governing documents up-to-date.
If you have questions, leave a message at the office and we will get back to you.
Clearwood now has an automated emergency phone messaging system. Current phone numbers for both owners
and renters is essential in order to receive critical notifications.
Please the contact office (360)894-2941 to:
 Keep Your Phone Number Updated
 Notify the Office of any Special Needs
Clearwood Newsletter Spring 2015, Page 2
Clearwood Finances
by Ben Budde, Treasurer
This newsletter contains a budget summary for the years 2012 through 2016. Years 2012 through 2014 contain actual
figures. For 2015, the current approved budget is listed; and for 2016, the proposed budget is listed. A more detailed
budget is available at the office and will be available at the May Informational Meeting. Clearwood has switched to
Quickbooks for accounting, so the detailed budget and Clearwood's financial statements look a little different. The new
bookkeeper and office staff think the change will make things easier and more efficient for the office. In addition to the
change in software, we made several other changes. We separated the General Operations and Water Operations. The
Water Base Rate is now designated as Water Reserves income, and water usage income will pay for Water Operations.
The water usage increase will make this possible. The Water Income minus Operating expenses row was negative in 2014,
i.e. $7819. This deficit was due to the fact that we did not start collecting the increased rates until the middle of the year;
but next year, when we collect a full year of increased rates, the water usage income should pay for Water Operations.
The 2014 deficit has been carried forward to 2015.
There was also a $14,455 deficit in General Operations. Above normal amount of repairs to Maintenance equipment and
the pool caused this deficit. In particular, the backhoe and the street sweeper had to be repaired. Also, there were
problems with the pool heaters, which we will replace as part of a major pool project this year. We were also over budget
from bad debt. The board approved taking money from the Operational Contingency account to cover the deficit.
The General Operations budget has gotten tighter and tighter over the years. The cost to operate continues
to increase. As the minimum wage continues to rise, more money will be needed to meet payroll. Following a
recommendation from the Finance Committee, the board will be asking for a $35 assessment increase
for operations.
Another major area in need of additional funding is the Water Reserves. Clearwood is currently looking
for a new well site to replace well #4. The 2015 budget projection includes $400,000 for a new well. If the
new well is completed in 2015, Water Reserves will probably have a deficit and need to borrow from General Reserves.
Also, in the Water Reserve Study, there are 8 major water projects that are scheduled to begin in 2017. The board will be
asking for a $55 assessment increase to the water base rate.
So, there will be a $35 operational assessment increase and a $55 water base increase on the August ballot. Together the
increase will be $90 per year, which is only $7.50 per month. Clearwood is at a crucial juncture in providing clean drinking
water to the community. There is little left to cut in the General Operational budget. I hope that Clearwood members will
approved these assessments.
Clearwood paid $91,187 for the excise taxes from our 2014 audit, but we did file an appeal of the tax on our water base
rate and all the penalties and interest. In the future, Clearwood will be paying the Public Utility Tax for the water income
and B&O Taxes on all other income besides assessments. This is one more added strain on our budget.
What’s New at the Clearwood Office
by Tarren Brumbaugh
The New Year has brought a lot of changes for the
Clearwood Office. We have recently changed our accounting software, so we ask for your patience when making accounting inquiries.
We have also begun actively working on past-due accounts; so if
you have not set up a payment plan, please stop by our office
Monday thru Thursday from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm to make payment arrangements.
Clearwood’s Covenants and the updated By-Laws and Rules and
Regulations can all be found on our community website. Check
them out under “Community Information”, then “Governing Documents”. Copies are also available at the office.
12th Annual
Clearwood Community
Garage Sale!!!
Saturday, July 25th 9 am - 5 pm
Sunday, July 26th 9 am - 5 pm
Clearwood’s front and back gates will be
OPEN to the Public
ONLY on Saturday July 25th from 9am 3pm
Clean out those closets & garages
Clearwood Newsletter Spring 2015, Page 3
Meet lots of folks
Clearwood Water System Update
by Deborah Baker
Alternate Sites for Test Drills
As was explained in previous newsletter articles, the Board intends to replace Well 4, which we
believe was the source of our E-coli contamination in the fall of 2013. The results of our first
test drill were not ideal. Working with a hydro-geologist and an engineer, we have identified
two potential alternative test drill sites one is behind Fairwood Ct in Division 8, and the other is in
the Division 17 Soccer Field. We are currently waiting on county approval. The plan is to test drill
the Fairwood Ct site; and only drill the Divison 17 Soccer Field site, if Fairwood is not ideal. In the meantime, Well
4 remains off line. Wells 1&2 are keeping us supplied, and all of our water sample tests have had come back
clean. So stay tuned for our continuing “Well” saga. As always, our ultimate goal is to continue to provide safe
and plentiful drinking water right out of the tap for Clearwood Community.
Stamp Out Vandalism
Loose, Lost, Strayed
and Spayed
By Marilyn Budde
Vandalism is a widespread problem, and Clearwood is
not immune. Our public amenities are often the target
of vandalism attacks, i.e. our rest rooms, cabanas, and the
swimming pool as well as our parks, playgrounds and beaches. In
fact, Clearwood spends around $5,000 a year to repair the damage
done by vandals. This is money that cannot be used for other
things the community needs.
Clearwood actively works to prevent vandalism.
 Clearwood Patrol regularly checks areas known to attract
vandalism.
 Only a few key restrooms are left open over winter.
 Clearwood has installed lights and cameras in key locations.
Vandalism still occurs, not only in our public areas, but also on
private property.
Things You Can Do to Prevent Vandalism.
 Use building materials and designs that discourage vandalism:
 prickly shrubs or closely planted hedges
 hard-to-mark surfaces
 fences
 unbreakable fixtures or glass.
 Secure your property:
 Lock any gates, garages and external
doors
 Lock up any equipment or tools.
 Use good lighting in and around your home to make vandals
more visible and more likely to get caught.
 Clean up any signs of vandalism as soon as they appear:
 Replace signs
 Repair playground equipment
 Paint over graffiti.
If you see someone committing an act of vandalism, report it to
the police and to the Clearwood office.
Remember, Vandalism is a Crime
by Anne Hoffman
We Clearwood pet owners value
the companionship and/or sense
of security our animals offer us.
As responsible owners, we take the
necessary precautions to secure our pets to
avoid their getting loose, becoming lost, or
straying. This requires our keeping our
dogs on leash outside our house and using a
carrier to transfer our cats from home to
vehicle. Free-running pets can cause our
neighbors who may be unsteady on their
feet (toddlers, the elderly and those who
are recovering from illness or surgery) to
suffer serious falls and injuries. Moreover,
if we have a fearful, or uneasy, neighbor, we
gently introduce our pet while it is on leash
and completely under our control.
We pet owners also have our pets spayed or
neutered. Of course, if we are breeding our
pet, we are 100% certain that we are able
to pay for the litter’s food, shelter, and
veterinarian care. Anything short of that
is animal cruelty as is animal abandonment.
That is not a behavior we value in
Clearwood.
Here at Clearwood we encourage neighborto-neighbor conversation, which leads to
long-term personal relationships. We know
it is easier to solve any pet-related problem
when we are speaking with our friends,
whose interests and concerns we empathize.
“Do unto others as you would have done unto
you.”
Clearwood Newsletter Spring 2015, Page 4
Draft 2016 Clearwood Budget
Per Lot - Assessments
Operations
2012
300
2013
300
2014
310
2015
310
2016
345
General Reserves
145
145
145
145
145
Future Reserves
15
15
15
15
15
Water Base Rate
185
185
185
185
240
Total
645
645
655
655
745
Water Usage Calculated Quarterly but billed semi-annually
TIER
1
2
3
FROM
0-2500
2501-3500
3501 and up
PER # CUBIC FEET (CF)
100
100
100
COST
$2.30
$3.45
$4.55
Reserve Projects
Water Reserves
2014
Water Service Meters & Setters
Final Generator
Well #5 Project
B & O Taxes
Reserve Study
Total
2015
Water Service Meters & Setters
Well # 1 Pump/Motor
Water Trailer
Water Truck- Ford Ranger
Well #4 Replacement
Storage Reservoirs- Dive Inspect
Reservoir 2 Ladder – Repaint
Cla-Val Valves
Total
2016
General Reserve Projects
2014
29889
44963
35625
70341
1440
182259
30000
10900
5000
20000
400000
6600
10900
4300
487700
Water Service Meters & Setters
Sanitary Survey
Source Flow Meters
Water Main Project D1- Engineering
Total
Impact Projects
2014 – None
2015 – Roads
Asphalt Patch
Total
2016 – Roads
Asphalt Patch
Total
30000
5300
6800
100000
142100
10000
10000
Clear Lake Dock
Windy Beach Mailboxes
Gate Cards & Card Reader
Reichel Beach Project
F150 Truck
Swing Gates
Cameras
Reserve Study
Total
2015
Pool and Spa Replaster
1991 S-10 Replacement
Truck 1999 DakotaTruck
Pool Heaters and Plumbing Repair
Paint Striper
Dock Horseshoe(a-right)
Ballfield 7 Field Upgrade
Total
2016
Restroom - Loop Lane
Road Project D1 – Engineering
Pool/Spa- Filters
Pool-Bldg Exterior Paint/Seal
Security -Sally Arm System
Maint Equip-Kabota RTV
Cameras
Total
Future Reserves Projects
2014 – None
2015
10000
10000
New Paving
Total
2016 – None
Clearwood Newsletter Spring 2015, Page 5
18655
28363
22201
4854
23101
2724
6268
2880
109046
102000
21200
23950
31000
6300
21850
10900
217200
7500
50000
6600
5300
5300
22300
5000
102000
22000
22000
Reserves
Actual
2012
Actual
2013
Actual
2014
Proposed
2015
Proposed
2016
Water Reserves
233680
109363
256247
250775
325200
48361
49469
100121
174109
(62816)
Water Projects
(131603)
(58712)
(182259)
(487700)
(142100)
Repay of Water to Gen Res
(100969)
0
0
0
0
49469
100121
174109
(62816)
120284
General Reserve Projected Income
196475
196475
196475
196475
196475
General Reserve Income Received
194043
214744
193507
196475
196475
General Reserve Previous Balance
1137626
1407520
1531489
1615950
1595225
Received Loan Payment
100968
0
0
0
0
General Reserve Projects
(25117)
(90774)
(109046)
(217200)
(102000)
0
0
0
0
0
1407520
1531489
1615950
1595225
1689700
Future Reserve Projected Income
20325
20325
20325
20325
20325
Future Reserve Income Received
19182
24366
21717
20325
20325
Future Reserve Previous Balance
149109
168291
90435
112152
110477
0
(102222)
0
(22000)
0
168291
90435
112152
110477
130802
142670
127470
123804
127967
118017
Income
43
6312
4162
50
0
Projects
(15243)
(9978)
0
(10000)
(10000)
127470
123804
127967
118017
108017
119524
119536
88811
90440
90455
Income
11
3226
1629
15
0
Projects
0
(33951)
0
0
0
119535
88811
90440
90455
90455
480
480
636
877
877
Income
0
156
241
0
0
Projects
0
0
0
0
0
480
636
877
877
877
Water Reserve Income Received
Water Res Previous Balance
Total Water Reserve
General Reserves
Insurance Claims
Total General Reserves
Future Reserves
Future Reserve Projects
Total Future Reserves
Impact Fees
Roads Previous Balance
Total Roads
Fire Protection Previous Balance
Total Fire Protection
Parks Previous Balance
Total Parks
Clearwood Newsletter Spring 2015, Page 6
Operations and Water System Budget
Actual
2012
Actual
2013
Actual
2014
Proposed
2015
Proposed
2016
Operations Income
Basic Assessments
Finance Interest Charges
Fees/Liens/Transfers/Renters
Other Income
Operations Income Total
406500
46145
41918
11145
505708
406500
47366
45405
11303
510574
420050
41427
46608
21687
529772
420050
40000
42000
6650
508700
467475
40000
42000
9000
558475
Expenses
Total Administration Expenses
Total Maintenance Expenses
Total Security Expenses
Total Pool Expenses
Total Miscellaneous Expense
173557
176198
19280
84725
26704
189145
178293
23251
88768
14570
189495
193721
30786
108544
21679
162140
201550
28510
90250
26250
180080
219520
30225
99850
28800
Total Operating Expenses
480464
494027
544226
508700
558475
Operating Income-Expenses
25244
16547
(14455)
0
0
Water System Income
Interest - Water System
Water Usage Income
Water System Income Total
Total Water Operating Expenses
131
95511
95642
153170
106
97491
97597
177891
133
134880
135013
142832
100
170000
170100
170000
0
170000
170000
170000
Water Income-Operating Expenses
(57528)
(80294)
(7819}
100
0
2015 RESOLUTIONS AND CANDIDATES
RESOLUTIONS TO BE DISCUSSED
Resolution 2015-03-01 A Resolution to Comply with RCW 64.38.045 Regarding the Annual Audit
Resolution 2015-03-02 A Resolution to Ratify the 2016 Budget
Resolution 2015-03-03 A Resolution to request an Increase in the Operations Assessment
Resolution 2015-03-04 A Resolution to request an Increase in the Water Base Rate Assessment
Resolution 2015-03-05 A Resolution to Amend the Bylaws to Establish a Water Reserve Account and Designate the full Water Base
Rate to fund it
Resolution 2015-03-06 A Resolution to Amend the Bylaws to Clarify the Membership Approval of Changes in Assessments
Resolution 2015-03-07 A Resolution adopting Updated 2007 By-Laws to include membership approved amendments from 2007
through 2014
Resolution 2015-03-08 A Resolution adopting updated Rules and Regulations to include membership approved amendments from
2007 through 2014
Resolution 2015-03-10 A Resolution to open the Gates for both days of the Annual Garage Sale
Resolution 2015-03-11 A Resolution to Amend the Rules and Regulations regarding fire danger levels
Resolution 2015-03-12 A Resolution to Amend the Rules and Regulations Concerning Loose Dogs on Community Property
Resolution 2015-03-13 A Resolution A Resolution to Amend the Rules and Regulations Concerning the Pool Season
Resolution 2015-03-15 A Resolution to amend the By-Laws to remove assessment figures and to amend the Rules and Regulations to include assessment figures.
Resolution 2015-03-16 A Resolution To Terminate a 10' Walkway Easement/Trail on Member Owned Private Property In Division 3.
Resolution 2015-03-17 Member Resolution Concerning Volunteer Background Checks.
Resolution 2015-03-18 A Resolution in support of a Professional Management Company to assist the Board in managing Clearwood Community Association Assets.
CANDIDATES FOR BOARD OF DIRECTORS SEATS
Cindy Childs
Dayrl Harrington
Clearwood Newsletter Spring 2015, Page 7
4
Clearwood Pool Update
by Connie Dotson, Pool Manager
Opening Dates: Pool will open Memorial Day weekend (May 23rd, 24thand 25th) YES! That’s Monday too! Weekends and
Holidays only until June 15th, then we open full time. (closed on Tuesdays)
Reminder: The 2:30-4:00 (Weekdays) and the 3:30-5:00 (Weekends and Holidays) lap and exercise time will now be adult
only swim. You must be 18 or older to be in the pool area. The 6:00-7:00 (Weekdays) lap and exercise swim will be open to
everyone who wants to do laps, exercise, teach your child to swim, etc. This is not open swim or play time. The schedule will
look like this:
IMPORTANT information concerning Pool usage bands (pool
Clearwood Community Pool Hours
bracelets): We will no longer have a front sign-in person at the pool.
Mon.- Wed.- Thurs.- and Fri. (closed eve- Bracelets need to be picked up at the office. You will still sign in and
ry Tues.)
must have a bracelet to enter. Bracelets and numbers will now be
12:00-2:00-open swim
checked by the supervisor on duty.
2:00-2:30-swim lessons only
*BRACELETS WILL STILL BE CHECKED
2:30-4:00-adult only swim
4:00-6:00-open swim
6:00-7:00-swim lessons/lap and exercise
7:00-7:45-open swim (last swim of the evening)
Pool Hours on Weekends and Holidays
(Saturday, Sunday and holidays)
Are you new to the neighborhood, and don’t know where or how to
get your pool usage bracelets?
Pick them up at the Clearwood
office. Monday-Thursday 9-5.
Safety Drills
Because we care about your
12:00-3:00-open swim
safety, our lifeguards will be
3:00-3:30-swim lessons only
performing random safety drills called the red duck drill. A red duck is
3:30-5:00-adult only swim
secretly put into the pool. The red duck represents a victim in the
5:00-7:45-open swim (last swim of the evening)
water. When one/both lifeguards see the duck, they have to rescue it.
Upon reaching the duck, they are given a scenario that they have to act upon. This drill will keep the lifeguards on their
toes. Please remember that when the whistle is blown and the word drill is yelled, you must exit the pool, wader, and spa.
In the event of a real emergency you will be asked to leave the building. Your safety is our number one priority. Your quick
response during these drills is greatly appreciated.
Max Capacity
Clearwood pool max capacity is 117 people in the building according to Thurston county fire code. Occasionally, we reach
max capacity and we have to clear the pool area halfway through a swim session. The people waiting outside the pool area
will be the first to re-enter the pool after the building is cleared out. This is the fairest way of handling this situation. We
thank you for your patience.
Parents: Swim diapers are mandatory for non potty-trained children, no exceptions! And please remember to check those
swim diapers often!!! We don’t want any closures this year due to feces in the water.
One more friendly reminder: There is no smoking allowed at the pool, this includes E-cigarettes.
Looking for a CERTIFIED swim instructor: If interested please apply at the Clearwood office.
Mossy Roofs
by Kathy Vosberg
 Moss on roofs is unsightly and will do damage to your roof by lifting the shingles
and wicking water under the shingle and eventually cause damage to the sheathing.
 Moss left untreated, can cause mold to develop.
 Once mold has developed, it can become a health hazard for the inhabitants of the
structure.
Before moss does damage to the roof, it is advisable to have it professionally cleaned and treated.
 Several treatment options are available which professionals have stated should contain Zinc Sulfate.
 Zinc Sulfate is non-toxic, so it is safe for plants and surrounding vegetation.
 Treatment is advised at least twice a year, especially if you live in Clearwood with our abundant trees.
Clearwood Newsletter Spring 2015, Page 8
Noxious Weeds in Clearwood
by Herb Schaff, ACC, Lakes, Community Property
Walking along the trails and through the woods here in Clearwood, one sometimes cannot resist the urge
to smell a wildflower or investigate a teasing opportunity to visualize some of nature’s wonders. This type of
activity usually requires us to insert our body and all its appendages into territory not generally used by the
casual spectator.
Clearwood has a few weeds that may not be classified as noxious weeds, but never the less need to be
avoided. We do have some noxious weeds that are classified as Class A as well as some classified as Class B
by the Thurston County Noxious Control Board. The difference is the Class A weeds need to be eliminated,
and the Class B just need to be controlled from producing new seeds. The Department of Ecology, in
conjunction with Clearwood, are battling a Class A aquatic weed in Blue Lake at this very time. There is more
info on this project in the Community Property segment of the newsletter.
Clearwood has some obnoxious weeds that the wayward hiker may encounter with nasty
results, namely the stinging nettles. This plant can be found around the underbrush along
the trails and sometimes on the hillsides, where the environment allows the forest floor to
become undisturbed for long periods of time. Stinging nettles have brittle hair like
needles on the stems, contact with the skin causes these needles to break off and stick on
the surface of the skin, causing a histamine reaction. The result is an itching sensation that
lasts a few minutes to a few hours, until the immune system takes care of it. The plant
normally grows two to four feet tall. It usually inhabits the forest floor among the native
plants, and does not have any continuous bloom on its flowers.
Stinging Nettle
Poison Ivy is the rattlesnake among the itchy plant family. This plant can
cause some real problems wherever the plant makes contact. This plant has oil on the leaves
called urushiol (you-roo-she-all) that causes an allergic reaction upon contact. The dried
leaves of this plant can contain the oil up to five years. The plant has a configuration
of three leaves on a single stem. The old saying “leaves of three, leave it be” should
be remembered. I have not heard of any poison ivy in Clearwood as it usually thrives in
higher elevations and warmer climates. There are plenty of home remedies which can aid in
the relief of skin problems associated with these plants.
Poison Ivy
There are more noxious weeds in Clearwood; however, unless these plants are
ingested they are not usually a problem. Tansy ragwort might be the most prevalent plant we have
growing wild; which, when ingested can cause liver problems in livestock, especially
horses, and I suppose, dogs if ingested in large quantities.
Scotch broom is rampant in Clearwood; however, this plant does not pose a problem
to the environment other than it is very invasive and does trigger sinus allergies
Tansy Ragwort
to some people when in full bloom.
Mother Nature has her way of protecting the natural beauty of our forests, and these plants
are probably an indication of just that.
Scotch Broom
Come and learn about:
 Water and Road Projects
TOWN HALL MEETING
Sunday April 26 @Clearwood Office @2pm
Bring a snack or dessert if you like
BUT Most of All - Bring Yourself!!
Come on out, hear the latest, get to know your neighbors
BRING YOUR QUESTIONS!!!!
Don’t miss it!!






Clearwood Newsletter Spring 2015, Page 9
Well #4 replacement
Operations Assessment Increase
Budget
Excise Tax Audit
Governing Documents Update
Current Issues
Community Property Committee News
Community Property Committee is going really well, even in the winter
months. I have been in the sunshine states the last several months, but
reports are very encouraging.
CPC has lots of projects on the list for this upcoming year, which helps our
little community stay the wonderful community it is. The committee has
been upgrading the paint jobs on the fire hydrants this past year, and we
hope to continue that until they are all spruced up and sporty looking.
The landscaping at various locations has come under the wings of CPC, and
it looks like the back gate area is targeted for attention this coming spring.
Karen Parsons, one of our newest CPC members, has some great ideas for our amenities.
by Herb Schaff, CPC Chairman
The Riechel Beach cabana is nearing its final stages of renovation, and a beauty it is. Marvin Shoe, our mastermind with this upgrade,
has been diligently bird-dogging this project from start to its finish. Maintenance removed the tables and sink, graded for cementing
and landscaped, installed plumbing and lights, and painted; Marvin and other volunteers did all the carpentry, installed the sink and
counter, and assembled and anchored the tables. Thank you Maintenance and to you Marvin and your trusty crew!
One of our biggest projects this summer will probably be working with the Department of Ecology on Blue Lake, managing a pesky
Class A weed called “Variable Leaf Milfoil”. Clearwood has contracted with the DOE and our applicator to do a two to three day project on Blue Lake. A herbicide is carefully inserted into the water at various points so as not to cause any harm to the environment,
except what was intended. It is a coordinated event with lots of moving parts. Clearwood will be working hand-in-hand with the DOE.
CPC continues to be an interesting and very active committee with lots of hands on effort from neighbors and friends. Come join the
fun, and fun is not really a lot of work sometimes!
It’s Spring Cleaning Time
by Marilyn Budde
Spring is just around the corner again, and that means it’s time to clean out those closets for our
community garage sale. But the warm weather also means it is time to clean up all the debris
from winter. We are fortunate to live in a very lush environment, where everything grows, for the
most part, without help from us. But that means we need to clean up after nature, especially come
spring. We need to remove the branches, cones, and needles from the yards and driveways and mow the
overgrown grass. If there are weeds or moss on the roof, we need to get up there and remove it. If you intend to burn some
of that debris, remember to get a fire permit. Go to www.orcaa.org to get your permit. But keep in mind that Clearwood’s size
limitations are more strict than ORCAA’s restrictions, so check the Rules and Regulations (Red Book) Section G. Miscellaneous
Regulations 1. Fire Pits and Putting Out Fires for Clearwood restrictions.
Property can be developed or in the natural state in Clearwood, but that does not mean that it’s okay for weeds to be as tall as
the rooftops. According to the Rules and Regulations (Red Book), under I. Property Management Regulations:
 “The buildings and grounds of each lot within Clearwood shall be kept in a safe and reasonable state of repair, cleanliness, and
neatness.
 No objects foreign to the Clearwood environment (particularly disabled vehicles and household furniture or appliances), are to be
stored out of doors.
 Trash and litter are to be disposed of in accordance with local (County) regulations and are not to accumulate on private lots.
 CCA dumpsters and common areas are not to be used for disposal of personal refuse”.
In addition, the Covenents (Blue Book), under XI. Repairs, Maintenance and Cleanliness states:
“The building and grounds of each developed Residential/Recreational Lot shall be kept in a safe and reasonable state of repair,
cleanliness, and neatness. Lawns shall be mowed at reasonable intervals. Undesirable weeds having a tendency to spread across
property lines shall be kept under control. No objects foreign to the Clearawood environment (including particularly disabled
vehicles), furniture or appliances shall be permitted to remain out of doors on any Residential/Recreational Lot”.
Note: There is a $100 fine (after an initial warning letter) for both of the following:
1. Unsightly lot/debris including furniture & Appliances
2. Refuse or sewage improperly disposed of.
Some people will say “So what about all those properties in foreclosure?”
Clearwood cannot legally enter any properties in foreclosure, we can only fine the owners (banks, lending companies,
individuals) and hope they will clean up the property. When they get ready to sell the property, they clean it up; but
unfortunately, that is a very slow process.
Clearwood Newsletter Spring 2015, Page 10
Out and About
with the Blue Lake hiker
Planning to
Dateline:
1953
Mill Valley, California
Old Mill Elementary
Third grade
Landscape on Community
Property
Every day after lunch recess Miss Rood would read aloud to
us from Laura Ingalls Wilder’s Little House books. My love
of American frontier history began in that sunny upstairs
classroom, and it has continued to this day.
The Daniel Bigelow House Museum in Olympia was built in
1854, thirteen years before Laura Ingalls was born. This
Carpenter Gothic house remained in the Bigelow family until
2005. Imagine that… 151 years!
The original hillside home was a two-room cabin on 160
acres with an artesian spring. The Bigelows enjoyed an unobstructed view of the Budd Inlet. By 1860, Harvard Law
school graduate Daniel and his wife, Ann, one of the first
territorial school teachers, had moved into the present
house where they raised their eight children.
Staunch Methodists, the Bigelows were
supporters of temperance, women’s
suffrage and public education. Among
their visitors were Patkanim, the
Snoqualmie headman, Susan B. Anthony,
the suffragette, and George Pickett, who commanded the
construction of Fort Bellingham before the Civil War.
The Bigelow House Museum, with its original territorial furnishings, photos and documents, is located at 918 Glass Ave.
NE, in Olympia. It is open for 45-minute guided tours every
Sunday, starting at 1 p.m.
This National Registry of Historic Places house is a gem.
Wouldn’t lunch at Percival Landing, a stroll through the
farmers’ market and a tour of Bigelow House make a capital
outing? Enjoy!
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Daniel_R._Bigelow_House
http://olympiahistory.org/wp/
Clearwood Community Newsletter
Newsletter Purpose
&
Mission Statement
The CCA Newsletter’s purpose is to inform the membership
about upcoming CCA sponsored events, meetings,
elections, and other business; health or safety information
that may impact the residents; to provide CCA project,
financial, and operational updates; to promote committee
volunteer opportunities and acknowledge their contributions.
Editorial Board
Linda Doucette
Deborah Baker
Marilyn Budde
Beautifully landscaped yards are a big asset to
Clearwood, and we really appreciate members who
landscape the community property adjacent to
their lots. But, did you know that, to do so
requires both a free Community Properties
Permit and a signed affidavit. It is important to
understand that should our Clearwood Water
Department, Roads, or other utilities need
access, the landscaping may be disturbed and any
landscaping restoration will be the responsibility
of the member at the member’s expense.
So, When Do I need an ACC Permit?
You need a permit whenever you are doing
anything to the outside of your house. This
includes painting, re-roofing, adding or replacing a
deck, installing a fence, removing a tree, and many
other tasks. When in doubt, call the office. The
ACC can help you determine whether you also
need a County Permit. Forms are available at the
office or on the web for download.
Things To Do
Opening of 2015 Fishing Season . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .April 25
Fishing Derby on Horseshoe Lake. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . April 25
Town Hall . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . April 26
Informational Meeting (9am at Reichel Beach). . . . . . . . .May 16
Memorial Day Weekend. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .May 23-25
Pool Open on Weekends . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 23,24, and 25
July Fourth (No events scheduled). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . July 4
Clearwood 12th Annual Garage Sale (9am to 5pm). . . .July 25-26
Complete Payment of all current year’s Assessments to avoid
liens unless you are on a monthly payment plan. . . . . . July 31
Annual Meeting (9am Reichel Beach) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Aug 15
Labor Day Weekend . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Sept 5-7
RV’s and Boats on Trailers:
Take Home from Recreational Lots. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Nov 1
Approved Screen at Permanent Residence . . . . . . . . . . Nov 1
Boats out of Moorage Area. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Nov 1
Turn off water at meter when you leave your camping lot for
winter…your water bill can balloon after a thaw if the line
breaks due to a freeze!
Clearwood Newsletter Spring 2015, Page 11
Clearwood Community
PRSRT STD
POSTAGE PAID
YELM, WA
PERMIT NO. 18
NEWSLETTER
Spring 2015
Clearwood Community
Association Inc.
21603 N. Clear Lake Blvd SE
Yelm, WA 98597
Check out even more interesting articles in the on-line newsletter at: www.clearwoodyelm.com. Just log in, click on Newsletters in the Communications box of your home
screen, and then pick Spring 2015 by clicking view on the far right hand side.
Office Hours
Mon thru Thurs: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Telephone …….…. 360-894-2941
Officers & Directors
You can dial from Tacoma toll free.
Linda Doucette (‘16) ..………………......President
Do not use the “1” prefix
After hours, please leave a message.
Violations & Member Relations Committees
Dayrl Harrington (‘15)………..…....Vice President
Fax ……………..… 360-894-2497
You can dial from Tacoma toll free.
Patrol and Emergency Services Committees
Monthly Meeting
Schedules
Committee
Date
Board
Arch. Control
(ACC)
Community
Property
Emergency
Services
3rd Sat
1st Thur.
Ben Budde (‘16)…………………………..Treasurer
Tarren Brumbaugh….….Office Assistant
Finance
2nd Sat
As Needed
2nd & 4th
Wed
Finance Committees
Dolanna Burnett…….…...…..Bookkeeper
Cindy Childs (‘15)…...………….……...…..Director
Albert Darrow…….Water & Maintenance
Manager
Member Relations
As Needed
Deborah Baker (‘16) ……………………. Secretary
Violations Committees
Do not use the “1” prefix.
Contacts
Elaine Sparkman ……….Office Manager
Community Property Committee
Patrol
Marvin Shoe (‘17)……………….……...…..Director
Architectural Control Committee
Clearwod Emergencies
Call 894-6044
Keith Helm (‘17)……………….……...........Director
This number is monitored after hours
by emergency Services volunteers.
Water
Advisory Board
Doug Lee
Ex Officios
Brian Gerrish
Bob Owen
What is a Clearwood Emergency?
Gate problems, Clearwood water
leaks. Trees across the roadway. Etc.
For All Other Emergencies, Call 911.
Clearwood Newsletter Spring 2015, Page 12
Roads
Water
Violations
1st & 3rd
Wed
As Needed
2nd Mon
2nd & 4th
Thur.
Time
9:00
AM
7:00
PM
9:30
AM
9:00
AM
7:00
PM
2:30
PM
10:00
AM
Committees need and welcome
volunteers. To sign up for any
committee, please come to the office
or email
[email protected].