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Home My Public Portal AboutPublic Comment #31 (Sherman)1 Laura Dabe Subject:FW: Tahoe Donner Marina Plan Input Attachments:FINAL_Tahoe Donner 2007 General Plan 8-13-07.doc; TDA SurveyBarChart2004.pdf; TD_ 2006_demographicsurveyresults.pdf; TD Demo Survey 2009.pdf From: Doug Sherman [mailto:douglas_sherman@yahoo.com] Sent: Tuesday, April 16, 2013 4:36 PM To: Jenna Endres Subject: Tahoe Donner Marina Plan Input Dear Ms. Endres, Please find attached several Tahoe Donner Homeowner Surveys that show strong support for preservation of the natural surroundings. In addition, most respondents have not been supportive of adding new amenities. I worked on the Tahoe Donner General Plan Committee for about 8 years, 2001 – 2009. During this time the biggest issue with regard to the Marina was parking which continues to be a problem today and will only be exacerbated by expanding the deck and dining facilities. Thank you for your consideration, Doug Sherman Tahoe Donner Homeowner 2007 General Plan Tahoe Donner Association FINAL DRAFT 8/13/07 Prepared by the General Plan Committee Laura Bergerson, co-chair Michael Fajans, co-chair Susan Campagne Pete Griffen* Jim McCann* Don McCormack* Aimee Schaller Patricia Schifferle Douglas Sherman John Stubbs March 2007 * resigned in early 2007 2 Table of Contents Explanation of Priority Numbers 1. Executive Summary 1.1. Methodology and Approach 1.2. Key Finding and Recommendations 1.3. Summary 2. Appendix 2.1. Alder Creek Campground 2.2. Cross Country Center 2.3 Downhill Ski Hill 2,4 Equestrian Center 2.5 Golf Course and Driving Range 2.6 Maintenance Facilities 2.7 Marina 2.8 Tennis Center 2.9 The Lodge & Food Service 2.10 Land Use, Open Space, and Trail System 2.11 Transportation 2.12 Trout Creek 2006 Demographic Study 2006 General Plan Committee Survey 3 Explanation of Priority Numbers Priority 1 – To be started on and/or completed within one year. Priority 2 - To be started on and/or completed as early as 1 year and no later than 3 years. Priority 3 - To be started on and/or completed as early as 3 years and no later than 5 years. Summary of Recommendations and Priorities (Listed in order of appearance in General Plan) Priority 1 Recommendations • Alder Creek Campground Recommendation A Page 10 • Downhill Ski Hill Recommendation B Page 21 • Equestrian Center Recommendation A Page 30 • Equestrian Center Recommendation D Page 30 • Maintenance Facilities Recommendation D Page 47 • Marina Recommendation A Page 51 • Tennis Center Recommendation C Page 55 • The Lodge & Food Service Recommendation A Page 58 (Lodge) • The Lodge & Food Service Recommendation A Page 63 (Food & Beverage) • Land Use/Open Space/Trails Recommendation A Page 68 • Land Use/Open Space/Trails Recommendation C (2) Page 69 • Land Use/Open Space/Trails Recommendation D Page 69 • Land Use/Open Space/Trails Recommendation E (5) Page 70 • Transportation Recommendation A Page 75 • Transportation Recommendation C Page 76 • Transportation Recommendation G Page 76 • Trout Creek Rec Center Recommendation A Page 82 • Trout Creek Rec Center Recommendation B Page 83 • Trout Creek Rec Center Recommendation C Page 83 • Trout Creek Rec Center Recommendation D Page 83 Priority 2 Recommendations • Alder Creek Campground Recommendation B Page 11 • Alder Creek Campground Recommendation C Page 11 • Cross Country Center Recommendation A Page 16 • Downhill Ski Hill Recommendation A Page 21 • Golf Course & Driving Range Recommendation D Page 35 • Golf Course & Driving Range Recommendation E Page 35 • Land Use/Open Space/Trails Recommendation B Page 68 • Transportation Recommendation D Page 76 • Transportation Recommendation F Page 76 Priority 3 Recommendations • Alder Creek Campground Recommendation D Page 11 • Cross Country Center Recommendation B Page 17 • Cross Country Center Recommendation C Page 17 • Golf Course & Driving Range Recommendation F Page 35 • The Lodge & Food Service Recommendation B Page 58 New Recommendation Added to Plan • Equestrian Center Recommendation E Page 30 2006 Tahoe Donner Association General Plan Update 4 1. Executive Summary Two years ago the General Plan Committee (GPC) began the task of updating the Tahoe Donner General Plan. The purpose of the General Plan is to provide long term guidance to the Tahoe Donner Board of Directors for future spending programs for amenities and infrastructure. This report summarizes the results of that effort. The objective of the General Plan update is to: 1) Prioritize for the Tahoe Donner Board of Director (BoD) short, mid-term and long term amenity and infrastructure investment needs. To understand the short and long term needs of the Tahoe Donner property owners the GPC conducted an extensive study of all Tahoe Donner Amenities and facilities. This study resulted in 6 key findings: 1. The highest priority of the property owners is to maintain and enhance open space areas and the trail system within Tahoe Donner and preserve the natural and peaceful environment. 2. There is a general lack of property owner support to invest in new amenities or expansion of existing amenities at this time. Rather, owners would like to see Tahoe Donner maintain successful amenities at or near their present level of service. 3. The current maintenance and storage facilities of the Tahoe Donner Association are in serious need of upgrading and/or replacement. 4. The ski lodge requires a detailed study that is beyond the capability of the General Plan Committee. The study should take in to consideration: • Identifying short- and long-term maintenance needs that are required to maintain the long-term viability of the building, including the structure, foundations, utility systems, deck, etc. • Identifying concepts for a larger, new facility that would fit in with the surrounding ski hill condominiums if structure replacement is found to be required for long-term operation. • Identify short-term facility modifications/expansion that would increase level of service and be economically justified. 5. The need for additional parking is pervasive across a significant number of Tahoe Donner amenities. 6. Consideration should be given to modifying or closing amenities that have limited property owner utilization, poor financial performance, and have perhaps evolved beyond their original purpose. 1.1 Methodology and Approach The findings from this study are the direct result of information the GPC collected during the past two years using the following methods. • Interviews with amenity managers • Property owner input • Tahoe Donner Surveys o 2006 Tahoe Donner Demographic Study o 2006 General Plan Committee Survey o 2005 General Plan Committee Survey • Tahoe Donner financial reports • Data from the Town of Truckee and other public entities The GPC broke into several teams where each team was assigned a section of the General Plan to update. The General Plan Committee invited Tahoe Donner property owners to participate in the bi-monthly meetings as well as review drafts of each section on-line. Few property owner comments were received. At the bi-weekly meeting the team reviewed and critiqued each section of the plan. Sections were reviewed a minimum of three times before being finalized. 2006 Tahoe Donner Association General Plan Update 5 1.2 Key Findings & Recommendation Finding 1: According to a significant majority of survey respondents, property owners wish to maintain and enhance present open space areas and the trail system within Tahoe Donner and preserve the natural and peaceful environment. Our research indicates that although Open Space is technically not an amenity, many Tahoe Donner property owners place as much or more value on it as they do the official amenities. The Tahoe Donner Board may want to take a more deliberate role in preserving our open space and enabling property owners to receive maximum benefit from our natural surroundings. Summary of Recommendations: 1. Create a budget line item budget to fund permanent and temporary staff, labor, and materials to preserve, maintain, and enhance the TDA trail system. 2. Consider changing the TDA By Laws so that any change of use of Other Association Real Property (OARP), including the sale or swap of OAR property, would require a majority approval of a base quorum of 50% of the TDA membership. 3. Establish policy to ensure that any proposal for acquisition of new property include a detailed discussion of potential cost/benefit analysis to the TDA membership and demonstrate the useful purposes of the property to the TDA membership. 4. Establish a General Policy Review Committee for review of general policies both related to open space and trails, and any other policy modifications. Among other policies, this committee would suggest procedures for further development of OARP and suggest procedures for binding or non-binding results of membership surveys. 5. Create trail access parking at existing roadside trail access points where parking currently does not exist. 6. The Board should consider initiating a fund or reserve program for purchase of identified beneficial lands, with a suitable sunset clause providing for payback of the fund plus accrued interest to property owners if funds are unused. 7. As an immediate priority, create backup files for the Forestry Department’s computer files and map files of Land Use and Open Space. 8. Establish a process and structure for identifying a comprehensive list of property whose acquisition might be of benefit to TDA. 9. Create an Open Space and Trails Committee. Finding 2: The 2005/2006 General Plan Committee Survey indicated that property owners are not in support of the association investing in the creation of new amenities at this time. Property owners are pleased with the current amenities and would like to see them maintained. There is a lack of support for any new project that would result in an assessment increase. Summary of Recommendations: 1. The board should focus on maintaining the current Tahoe Donner amenities. The board should only consider making a large amenity improvement when the infrastructure of an amenity is no longer safe or creates a risk for the association. 2006 Tahoe Donner Association General Plan Update 6 Finding 3: The current maintenance and storage facilities (general maintenance, forestry and vehicle maintenance) are in serious need of upgrading and/or replacement. There is likely an opportunity to improve maintenance productivity and/or reduce costs by combining these facilities at a single location. Summary of Recommendations: 1. The GPC recommends a detailed evaluation for combining all maintenance facilities (except Golf and DSL grooming equipment) into one facility. This would provide an improved efficiency in the use of space by combining such common facilities as administrative support staff offices, restroom, locker and break room facilities, hazardous material handling, and other such facilities. Finding 4: Although recognizing that property owners do not support a major investment in the downhill ski center, the long-term viability of the downhill ski lodge has been questioned so the GPC recommends a detailed study that is beyond the capability of the General Plan Committee. The study should take in to consideration: • Identifying short- and long-term maintenance needs that are required to maintain the long-term viability of the building, including the structure, foundations, utility systems, deck, etc. • Identifying concepts for a larger, new facility that would fit in with the surrounding ski hill condominiums if structure replacement is found to be required for long-term operation. • Identify short-term facility modifications/expansion that would increase level of service and be economically justified. Summary of Recommendations: 1. In the shorter term, appropriate steps should be taken to maintain and upgrade the existing building, including replacing the roof, replacing leaking windows, etc. 2. That the Association retains appropriate consultants to evaluate the long-term structural and functional viability of the ski lodge building. Finding 5: The need for additional parking is an issue that is pervasive across Tahoe Donner. Cross County Skiing, Downhill Skiing, the Marina, and trail access points all face parking challenges. Summary of Recommendations: 1. Establish a small task force to investigate creative and cost effective ways to address the limited parking issue. 2. Investigate opportunities to provide small additional parking areas that could serve multiple amenities. 3. Explore parking management strategies that would provide more spaces for amenity users, such as relocating employee parking at the downhill ski area during peak periods. 2006 Tahoe Donner Association General Plan Update 7 Finding 6: Tahoe Donner may want to consider modifying the use or closing amenities that have limited property owner utilization, poor financial performance, and have perhaps evolved beyond their original purpose. Summary of Recommendations: 1. The original purpose of the Alder Creek Campground was to provide property owners with a place to camp/RV while developing their lots. Now that the majority of Tahoe Donner lots have been developed the GPC questions the need of this facility by property owners. Additionally, property owner usage accounted for only 19% of the total usage in 2005. 2. The Equestrian Center is the second least used amenity with 2% of property owner use and is the third most expensive amenity at the cost of $34.51 annually per property. If property owner usage and financial performance of this facility cannot be improved the board should, take steps to change use or retire the amenity. Table 1 below shows the 2005 usage amenity fee allocation per property and usage rates. Table 1: 2005 Amenity Cost and Usage 1.3 Summary The Appendix contains complete information for each key finding including background, usage and revenue data, analysis and recommendations. The Appendix also includes reports for all Tahoe Donner amenities that were not specifically mentioned in the Key Findings section. Refer to Exhibit 1 for the GPCs prioritized list of actions we recommend the board take. Each action has been categorized by priority level and time frame. Refer to Exhibit 2 for a list of potential joint use parking opportunities with a list of corresponding maps. The GPC requests that the Board vote to accept this plan and make a commitment to implement the key recommendations from the 2007 General Plan Update. We think a board/committee workshop is needed to consider the recommendations of this plan, and we recommend that an implementation schedule be formed and that status reports be provided on a quarterly or other timely basis to document the progress of executing this plan. Lastly, because the various findings and recommendations are complex, the GPC recommends that the Board establish appropriate overview committees to lead efforts that result from this report. 87%12%1%0%$5.52Campground 69%27%3%2%$34.51Equestrian 67%21%5%7%$17.12Tennis 58%26%6%10%$24.04Cross Country 46%31%12%11%$137.99Golf 33%42%13%12%$115.66Downhill Ski 22%41%17%19%$11.00Marina 16%21%17%47%$30.30Trout Creek Never UseUse 1-5 times a year Use 6-10 times a year Use 10+ times a year 2005 Property Owner Cost Amenity 87%12%1%0%$5.52Campground 69%27%3%2%$34.51Equestrian 67%21%5%7%$17.12Tennis 58%26%6%10%$24.04Cross Country 46%31%12%11%$137.99Golf 33%42%13%12%$115.66Downhill Ski 22%41%17%19%$11.00Marina 16%21%17%47%$30.30Trout Creek Never UseUse 1-5 times a year Use 6-10 times a year Use 10+ times a year 2005 Property Owner Cost Amenity 2006 Tahoe Donner Association General Plan Update 8 Appendix 2.1 Alder Creek Campground 8 2.2 Cross Country Center 12 2.3 Downhill Ski Hill 18 2.4 Equestrian Center 25 2.5 Golf Course & Driving Range 31 2.6 Maintenance Facilities 36 2.7 Marina 47 2.8 Tennis Center 51 2.9 The Lodge & Food Service 55 2.10 Land Use, Open Space, & Trail System 62 2.11 Transportation 69 2.12 Trout Creek Recreation Center 76 2006 Demographic Study 2006 General Plan Committee Survey 2006 Tahoe Donner Association General Plan Update 9 2.1 ALDER CREEK CAMPGROUND BACKGROUND Tahoe Donner’s campground is located on a ten-acre site on Alder Creek Road two miles east of the intersection of Fjord Road and three miles west of State Route 89. The campground is open from the last week of May until mid- September, weather permitting. It is managed by seasonal employees who live at the site. Along the banks of Alder Creek, the campground has 44 campsites, 21 for tents and the remaining 23 are RV sites, 18 of which provide electricity and water. Three of the RV sites include a sewer hook-up, including the site used by the manager. There is one large campsite with electricity and water that is utilized for group camping. The group site, which provides eight parking spaces, can accommodate 100 people; an extra porta-potty is leased when a large group uses the facility. The campground has a restroom and laundry building that provides hot showers, flush toilets, sinks, etc. A stainless steel outdoor sink is available for dish washing, etc. The campground is spacious and has fire rings, barbecues, horseshoe pit, volleyball/ badminton court, a sandbox, and other amenities. Wireless internet access was added in 2006. Since the previous General Plan was prepared, five tent sites have been converted to RV sites in response to demand levels. The women’s bathroom has been made ADA compliant but the men’s has not yet been modified. INFORMATION AND ANALYSIS The Campground is one of the Tahoe Donner amenities that is open to the public. During 2005, public usage days represented approximately 50%, with the remainder split between property owners and their guests. The season is approximately three and a half months, with the greatest percentage of use during July and August when the campground may be full on weekends but there is usually capacity on weekdays. Table 2.1.1 2006 Campground Rates Campground Rates Members Guests Public Campsites $14 $18 $20 Campsites w. hook-ups $19 $25 $28 Group Site $80 $90 $100 Additional vehicle $5 $5 $5 Wood (per bundle) $5 $5 $5 Sewer (per day, limited# hook-ups) $5 $5 $5 Dump Station (for non campers) $5 $5 $5 Table 2.1.2. 2006 Rates at other Camping Facilities Coachland RV spaces $39 Donner Memorial State Park campsites $25 Occupancy is limited to 28 days and monthly rates are available, $365 for a tent site and $535 for a RV campsite with hook-ups. Spring runoff of Alder Creek overran three of the tent sites, and they need to be raised slightly in order to continue to use them. Boulders and debris in the creek also contributed to the problem, but this should be repaired. Additional marketing and information should help raise the usage level of the Campground. Its rates are lower than Coachland, which has a limited number of transient RV spaces, as well as Donner Memorial State Park, which 2006 Tahoe Donner Association General Plan Update 10 charges $25 a night for tent or RV sites, but charges for showers and does not provide hook-ups or a dump station for RVs. Table 2.1.3. Campground Operating Results 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 Revenue $23,188 $26,790 $38,848 $37,872 $46,610 Operating Expenses $39,002 $51,324 $48,565 $58,556 $60,177 Net Operating Results -$15,814 -$24,534 -$9,717 -$20,684 -$13,567 Allocated Overhead $4,570 $6,890 $6,669 $14,254 $15,212 Net Results with Overhead -$20,384 -$31,424 -$16,386 -$34,942 -$28,779 Cost Recovery Ratio 53% 46% 70% 52% 62% Capital Expenses/Funding Na $16,183 $24,103 $25,619 $7,086 Net Results with Overhead/ Capital Expenses Na -$47,607 -$40,489 -$60,561 -$35,865 P/O Yearly Assessment/ Contribution $7.32 $6.23 $9.32 $5.52 Table 2.1.4. Campground Usage 2003 2004 2005 - days of operation 114 131 108 - member use days 327 314 331 - guest use days 760 739 396 - public use days 679 670 1,052 - total use days 1,766 1,723 1,779 Capacity utilization 35% 30% 37% The Campground revenue has increased substantially in recent years. While expenses have increased, the net operating results have improved since 2002. Cost recovery was 80% in 2003 but dropped in 2004 before recovering to 77% in 2005. The net results for 2005 represent approximately a $4.50 assessment per parcel. FINDINGS AND RECOMMENDATIONS Finding No. 1 The campground is partially accessible for the disabled. Recommendation A Minor modifications should be completed to the men’s bathroom to make it ADA compliant. Several campsites should be modified to ensure ADA access. _X_ YES ___ NO PRIORITY NUMBER: 1 Finding No. 2 The current facilities and campgrounds require a considerable amount of annual and on-going maintenance. 2006 Tahoe Donner Association General Plan Update 11 Recommendation B Other minor capital investments should continue to maintain the campground in its excellent condition. Replacing the bathroom floors with a smoother surface material would make it easier to keep clean, and new synthetic wood picnic tables would reduce annual maintenance costs. _X_ YES ___ NO PRIORITY NUMBER: 2 Finding No. 3 The campground operates at less than 40% of capacity during its 3.5-4 month season, although usage is much higher on summer weekends. RV spaces are in greater demand than tent spaces. The long-term viability of the campground remains in question. Anecdotal information suggests that some TD lot owners used the campground prior to or during the construction of their homes. As TD approaches build-out, there will be fewer property owners using the campground. Thus, its future success depends on our ability to attract public use to the facility. Recommendation C The Association should consider adding water and power to several current tent sites, and converting them to additional RV spaces. Additional marketing is needed to attract more public users. Public rates should be increased by approximately $5-10 to bring them closer to current market for a facility with its amenity levels. Member rates should be increased a lesser amount. _X_ YES ___ NO PRIORITY NUMBER: 2 Finding No. 4 If campground usage and cost recovery do not improve based on prior recommendations, the Association should consider the long-term viability and consider the option of establishing other uses for the campground site. Recommendation D If the long-term viability does not indicate that public usage can be increased, the Association could consider alternative uses for the site, including developing a site for employee housing, or selling additional lots for development and using the revenue for other Association amenity needs. These changes would require approval from the Town of Truckee and property owners. _X_ YES ___ NO PRIORITY NUMBER: 3 2006 Tahoe Donner Association General Plan Update 12 2.2 CROSS COUNTRY CENTER The purpose of this portion of this report is to review the cross country facility and operations in context of the adequacy of the operations and future long-term needs. Specifically, this report will review the capacity, usage, facilities, revenue and costs of operation of the facility. BACKGROUND The cross country, or Nordic, ski center is located at the west end of Alder Creek Road where it shares a 4,200 square foot building with the Equestrian facility. The portion of the building used for cross country center is 2,500 square feet plus an uncovered 500 square foot outside deck. In addition to rentals of ski equipment and retail sales, the center has a small kitchen capable of serving both hot and cold meals and beverages, including wine and beer. The meal service seating capacity inside the building is approximately thirty persons. Snow conditions permitting, the ski season typically runs from Thanksgiving through the weekend following Easter of the following year. Since less snow is required to keep the groomed trails open, the cross country ski season is longer (and more predictable) than the downhill ski season. The Tahoe Donner Cross Country Center is a premier facility with some of the finest terrain anywhere. It enjoys a loyal customer base split approximately evenly among homeowners and the public. According to the 2006 demographic survey, 42 percent of property owners use this facility, with 10 percent using it more than ten times a year. Capacity The total capacity of the center is enormous when viewed from the amount of trail mileage. It is generally assumed that the total capacity of the center is theoretically unlimited as any number of skiers can start skiing at the same time. Also, due to the extensive trail system, overcrowding of trails to the extent of diminishing the quality of the skiing experience is unlikely. However, since beginning, intermediate and family skiers tend to utilize a more limited number of trails, therefore we must be sensitive to the potential for a crowded feeling. Factors that affect capacity from a practical standpoint are the limited amount of seating inside the small building, the availability of rental equipment, and parking. As the popularity of the amenity has increased over the past sixteen years, parking along Alder Creek Road has become a bigger problem since the amount of off road parking space is wholly inadequate at busy times. Each of these items will be addressed below. Areas of Operation • Parking Presently, the cross country center can park 100 cars in the lot and an additional 50 cars can be parked along Alder Creek Road. At 2.5 to 3 persons in each vehicle, a theoretical maximum of 375 – 450 patrons may use the facility at any given time. Assuming the typical user spends approximately three hours at the cross country center, the center has a theoretical maximum of 750 -900 users per day though experience shows actual usage can be up to 800 users per day. These numbers are affected by the actual number of skiers per vehicle, the number of skiers who ski directly onto the trails from surrounding homes and the number of skiers who park outside the overflow area on Alder Creek Road. On busy days and holiday weekends, cars can be seen parked along the sides of Alder Creek Road north to and up along Wolfgang Road. If there is a desire to increase capacity of the center, the parking issue should be addressed, in addition for the comfort and convenience of the cross country center patrons and to avoid conflicts with the Town of Truckee’s parking regulations. • Facility In general, the cross country building is at or over capacity in servicing customers. While the indoor seating in the restaurant area is adequate for mid-week business, on peak weekends and holidays and during inclement weather, the seating area becomes quickly overcrowded. The recent changes have improved the overcrowding. Over the next ten years, however, if more residents live full time or half time in the area, the existing facility may be overcrowded more frequently. 2006 Tahoe Donner Association General Plan Update 13 An expansion of the restaurant area would add greatly to the atmosphere and the quality of the experience of our customers. Outdoor seating on nicer days is limited by the number of picnic tables the manager is able to place on the snow. The outdoor seating enables the center to expand by providing more seating to our customers. Retail space is limited, but adequate for the present level of service provided by the center. The retail inventory consists of mainly souvenir items, sunglasses, hats, gloves, ski care products and equipment spare parts along with ski clothing. Retail sales are ancillary to the main business of the association and revenue helps to offset the center’s general operating expenses. The retail area is presently large enough to handle the center’s modest inventory. The equipment rental area is adequate for the present level of service. The restrooms are in good condition and are large enough to handle the center’s busiest periods. The addition of porta-potties may be recommended during special events. Long-range facility needs should include storage and maintenance of equipment. • Equipment Presently, the association owns 350 sets of rental equipment (skis, boots and poles), approximately 100 of which are in children’s sizes. The association also owns 12 pairs of snowshoes and 6 pulka sleds, all of which are available for rental. Rental stock is currently sufficient to handle even the busiest days. However, as usage at the facility increases, the need for rental equipment will similarly increase. Presently, the ability to expand the inventory of rental equipment is limited by the ability to store the equipment and service the customer. • Food Services The cross country center provides good quality food at a reasonable price. The food is prepared on site, in the kitchen located within the existing building. The kitchen is of sufficient size to enable the center to offer catering services. The menu consists of such items as homemade soups, sandwiches, breads, snack breads, cookies, brownies, fruit, beverages, pizzas, quiches and other items. The quality and freshness of the food is excellent. The food services are extremely popular with the customers and net revenues help to offset the center’s general operating expenses. A more limited selection of food and beverages is also offered at the cook house in Euer Valley on weekends and holidays. The food is transported to the cook house via snowmobile. Cook house food sales produce no net revenue, except on the busiest days. Nonetheless, the offering of food services at the cook house is considered an added value and service. It enhances the overall quality of the experience for the entry level and occasional skier. • Trail System Approximately two-thirds of the 115+ kilometers of groomed trails are located on Tahoe Donner property within the "2,000 Acres." The remaining trails are located in the Euer Valley and contiguous lands. The trail system is largely located over existing roads, which are used in the summer for equestrian, biking, hiking and fire access. Due to the ability to groom over the snow pack, the trail system is not limited to roads, thus many trails are located over terrain, which in the summer is covered by brush and largely inaccessible. The present manager has expanded the existing trail system and re-routed trails to make access easier for less experienced skiers and also included more challenging trails for the more experienced skier. Maintenance and environmental mitigation work on the trails fits within the existing budget. Currently Tahoe Donner Cross Country is participating in an experimental program with other ski areas to assess and minimize environmental impacts from the ski operation. Any expansion or development within the "2,000 Acres" must be looked at carefully in terms of the impact it may have on the cross country trail system. Partially what makes the Cross Country Center unique and world class are the large number of beginner and intermediate terrain and the teaching facilities provided by this terrain. Any expansion plans or re-routing could have a significant impact upon usage and the quality of the service. While most advanced skiers would simply ski the upper, more difficult trails, if the trails are perceived to be too difficult, families and recreational skiers will choose to ski elsewhere. This could be particularly 2006 Tahoe Donner Association General Plan Update 14 severe given aging of the Tahoe Donner population along with the need for extended families who depend on this diversity. In turn this could have a severe impact upon the revenue generated by this amenity as the bulk of the income comes from this segment of the skiing population. INFORMATION AND ANALYSIS Usage When snow and weather conditions are good, the patronage at the center is quite high on weekends and holidays-- totaling as much as 800 on a given day. There is a fee structure in effect that provides for season passes for both property owners and the public, as well as daily fees for both. The graph below illustrates the property owner use of season passes as opposed to season passes purchased by the public. It should be noted that statistics are not kept on a calendar year basis but on a winter ski season. Table 2.2.1. Cross Country Center Usage Trends This facility is not as susceptible as others are to comparisons of usage vs. capacity, because of the aforementioned limiting factors (parking in particular). Suffice it to say that if parking capacity were to be increased, there is ample capacity for significant growth. However, as patronage increases, the size of the building will increasingly become a larger problem. On weekdays, usage is notably less than on weekends and holidays. Fees Trail pass fees (seasonal and daily) were previously set annually by the board of directors in concert with the concessionaire. Presently, they are set by the board with the recommendation of the Tahoe Donner staff and approval of the general manager. There is discussion the fees will be increased. The 2001-2005 fee schedule follows: Seasonal Usage 2001-02 2002-03 2003-04 2004-05 2005-06 Property Owners Season Passes 270 291 382 385 373 Public Season Passes 266 236 305 368 292 Combo Passes 91 94 120 150 Combo passes –Property Owners 146 Combo passes- Public 30 Property Owner Trail Passes 2,221 2,368 2,711 2,694 1,994 Public Trail Passes 14,459 16,254 13,368 14,727 11,156 Guest Trail Passes 640 1,073 1,310 1,261 1,208 Employee & Other Comp 3,320 Season Pass Estimate 14,107 13,972 20,085 22,100 19,000 Totals 31,427 31,427 33,667 41,338 36,678 2006 Tahoe Donner Association General Plan Update 15 Table 2.2.2. Cross Country Center 2005-06 Fee Schedule Cross Country Adult (13-59) Senior (60-69) Child (7-12) Season Pass (Property Owners) Prior November 1 After November 1 $ 180 $ 220 $ 160 $ 180 Free Daily Track Pass (Property Owners) All Day: 8:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Half Day: 1:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m. Twilight: 3:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m. Night: 5:00 p.m. - 800 p.m. (Wed. & Saturday) $ 15 $ 11 $ 9 $ 9 $ 12 $ 10 $ 8 $ 8 Free Season Pass (Public) $ 290 $ 225 Free Daily Track Pass (Public) All Day Half Day Twilight Night (Wednesday & Saturday) $ 21 $ 16 $ 12 $ 12 $ 16 $ 10 $ 10 $ 10 Free Table 2.2.3. 2005-06 Cross Country Equipment Rental Rates Cross Country Equipment Rental Rates* 13 & Older 12 & Under All Day: 8:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. $ 19 $10 Half Day: 1:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m. $ 15 $ 7 * Rental includes skis, boots and poles; snowshoes; - demo rates are higher Revenue and Total Cost During the ten years the cross country ski center was operated by various concessionaires, total concession revenues grew steadily. The contract with the various concessionaires provided that the association be paid a percentage of the gross revenue. During the time the facility was operated by concessionaires, income received from the cross country center did not always exceed the cost borne by the association. In 1993, the assessment cost per lot was .72 cents. In 2005 it was $24.04 Cross country revenue is generated from five main sources: Trail and season passes; rentals; lessons; retail sales; special events, and food and beverage. The cross country operation has tremendous potential. Historical as well as current results indicate the opportunity for a well-run operation to generate financial success. During the six seasons of 1992 to 1997, operating expenses, excluding capital expenditures, ranged from a low of 82% of projected to a high of 114% which translates into a range of $263,552 to $394,861. During this same time period, property owner day use ranged from 1,000 to 2,000 visits and property owner season passes have averaged approximately 250 per year. Public season passes have averaged just over 100 sold per year. The season pass and property owner use sales have not fluctuated significantly in good or bad weather years. As the current usage and revenue figures indicate the center consistently generates a profit in good snow seasons and almost breaks even in bad snow years. 2006 Tahoe Donner Association General Plan Update 16 Table 2.2.4. Cross Country Center Operating Results 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 Revenue $398,188 $456,883 $469,116 $498,654 $480,149 Operating Expenses $378,587 $356,354 $372,748 $396,724 $413,440 Net Operating Results $19,601 $100,529 $96,368 $101,930 $66,709 Allocated Overhead $44,358 $47,841 $51,185 $92,420 $91,879 Net Results with Overhead -$24,757 $52,688 $45,183 $9,510 -$25,170 Cost Recovery Ratio 94% 113% 111% 102% 95% Capital Expenses/Funding na $27,386 $69,095 $73,440 $131,061 Net Results with Overhead/Capital Expenses na $25,302 -$23,912 -$63,930 -$156,231 P/O Yearly Assessment/ Contribution na $0.00 $3.68 $9.84 $24.04 Euer Valley One of the most critical aspects of a successful operation is that the ski experience be challenging, but not frustrating for all levels of skiers. Although the bulk of the trail system for the amenity is within the "2,000 Acres", the most popular trails for advanced beginners, families and intermediate skiers are in the Euer Valley. This is because Euer Valley trails are generally flat (with the only difficult part being the trail down into Euer Valley and the trail out of Euer Valley) and also because the Euer Valley Cookhouse provides a warm and welcome resting spot. The Euer Valley is also popular with more experienced skiers. Thus, it is crucial to the operation of the cross country facility that Tahoe Donner be in the position to insure long-term access to Euer Valley. Tahoe Donner must look into the viability of operation even if the cross country center were to lose long-term access to Euer Valley. Care must be taken to avoid extensive capital expenditures until we know whether the cross country operation would be viable in such a situation. At the same time, alternatives must be explored. For example, creating a second facility on the golf course is not a realistic option, as it would require crossing too many streets. Similarly, Carpenter Valley is not an option as the owners are disinclined to allow access onto their property. Also, extending into the forest service land at the end of the Lions Leap Trail would be acceptable to the hard-core skiers, however the access trail at that spot would be extremely difficult due to the steepness of the terrain. FINDINGS AND RECOMMENDATIONS Finding No. 1 The Tahoe Donner Cross Country Center is a premier facility with some of the finest terrain anywhere. Usage is growing and the most significant constraint is parking. Recommendation A First and foremost the association should look at solving the parking problem. Paving or mitigation materials that would allow parking in the existing corral areas during the winter need to be pursued. Additional paving and parking controls along Alder Creek Road would be helpful both for capacity and safety, but wetland issues may preclude this. Satellite parking needs further investigation although the nature of Cross Country experience—short durations, ski changes and temperature management—can make this less attractive to users. A shuttle service from existing parking lots on weekends should be explored as an immediate short-term solution with other options as articulated above explored for a more permanent solution. There may be an opportunity to offer joint use parking with other facilities as described in the Executive Summary Finding 5. _X_ YES ___ NO PRIORITY NUMBER: 2 2006 Tahoe Donner Association General Plan Update 17 Finding No. 2 If the demographic trends continue and more and more homeowners use the facility as users-days continue to increase, options may need to be explored for the potential expansion of the existing facility. Because the building itself is located on a wetlands area, expansion outside of the existing footprint of the building may be precluded. Possibilities which could be explored include expanding the existing facility by creating a larger second story and deck area or expansion over the stable areas. Recommendation B Monitor usage patterns of the Cross Country Center and the status of the Equestrian Center. Beyond five years, the Association may need to consider a significant investment to upgrade the facility. _X_ YES ___ NO PRIORITY NUMBER: 3 Finding No. 3 The Euer Valley trails represent a key element of the trail network and the winter lease of property from the Euer Family is important to the success of the Cross Country area. Recommendation C The association should seize any opportunity to secure long-term access to the Euer Valley which might present itself. If the Euer Family sells the property, the Association should use its right of first refusal to purchase the property, both for winter cross country and summer usage. If Tahoe Donner cannot purchase the property, it is essential that the Association take any steps necessary to extend the winter easement for the ski trails. _X_ YES ___ NO PRIORITY NUMBER: 3 This priority could become a Priority 1 should an opportunity present itself. 2006 Tahoe Donner Association General Plan Update 18 2.3 DOWNHILL SKI HILL BACKGROUND The Tahoe Donner downhill ski area consists of approximately 120 acres located within the large loop of Skislope Way. On the western edge of Tahoe Donner, the ski hill rises from an elevation of approximately 6,750 at the lodge at the base to an elevation of 7,350 at the top of the north-facing hill. The ski hill is open to property owners, guests, and the public during a season that starts around December 15th (when conditions allow), and ends on the weekend following Easter of the following year – usually early to mid-April. Standard hours of operation are from 8 AM to 5 PM with lifts in operation from 9 AM to 4 PM. The facility has a niche as a “family-friendly” hill, oriented to beginners, children, and telemark skiers. The facility includes an approximately 10,000 square foot lodge, four lifts, and limited parking. The lodge includes a cafeteria and bar, rental shop, retail shop, Snowflakes ski school for children, ticket office, locker room, and ancillary activities such as ski school locker room, storage spaces for food service and rental shop, bathrooms, ski patrol office, etc. In addition, there is an approximately 4,200 square foot south facing deck which provides an excellent eating/resting area in good weather. Parking The only parking immediately adjacent to the lodge and hill is a few spaces reserved for disabled patrons and owners and guests at the ski bowl condominiums. In addition, approximately 30 parking spaces below the condominiums are reserved for employees – in exchange for TD doing snow removal and providing some lift tickets for condo owners. Ski hill parking is provided at two lots across Snowpeak Way, a larger three-level lot containing 126 spaces, and the lot north of Slalom Way (east of the intersection with Snowpeak) which accommodates approximately 60 vehicles. Thus, the total off-street spaces is only 186; this is supplemented by approximately 70 on-street spaces on Snowpeak Way and Slalom Way. Parking is restricted to one side of the street so not to interfere with fire access or passage of other emergency vehicles. A 24-passenger shuttle bus is used to constantly shuttle patrons between parking and the lodge, depositing them adjacent to the ticket office. Because of difficulty walking in ski boots, the shuttle service is convenient and does not represent a major constraint. Parking availability is, however, a constraint, and on the 5-10 annual days that reach capacity, it is the parking capacity as opposed to the lift capacity that constrains the ski hill operation. The Lodge As cited above, the current lodge is approximately 11,000 square feet. The building was built in phases; the earliest sections are 32 years old and there are numerous space inadequacies and maintenance issues. The greatest deficiency is the size and layout of the area devoted to equipment rental. The 1,200 sq.ft. space is poorly designed for efficiency and is considerably smaller than the size it should be (by industry standards) for the volume of business it conducts. Waits for equipment rental can be 40 to 90 minutes, usually between 9 and 10:30 am. Alleviating this situation with a larger, more efficient rental area would probably result in more skiers renting equipment at the hill, as well as more skiers who do not return at present because of the negative experience attempting to rent equipment at Tahoe Donner. At present, 30% of TD ski hill users rent equipment at the hill. This varies resort by resort; at Boreal the proportion renting equipment is 60%, while at Squaw Valley it is very low – more skilled people tend to have their own equipment. The Snowflakes ski school for 3-6 year old children is very popular – its capacity per session is 25 children – limited by the 870 sq. ft. room used when the children are inside. The program spends an hour on the hill, instructing the kids, and an hour of play/rest time inside. The 10:30am session is full each weekend day during the season. For the 2006-07 season, the program will try to operate four two-hour sessions on holidays and weekends, starting at 9:30am, 10:30am, 12:30pm, and 1:30 pm. This will require careful scheduling of groups to make sure one group is on the hill while the other is in the lodge. Space for children’s clothing, boots, etc. will be very tight, and additional space would allow the program to expand more easily. 2006 Tahoe Donner Association General Plan Update 19 The locker rooms and restrooms are also operating beyond their capacity. While many ski areas place lockers in hallways, the TD lodge does not have any hallways wide enough to accommodate additional lockers. The bar area is too large and the cafeteria area too small; while families use tables in the bar area, the overall space is too tight on poor weather days when the deck is not available. Relatively minor changes to the food service layout in the cafeteria would increase its throughput. Several unsightly storage containers are used for major equipment, such as snowmobiles, etc. These are located behind the lodge and are visible from several of the ski hill condominiums. Lifts There are four lifts at the ski hill. The first, Sun Kids conveyor lift, is a moving carpet approximately 80 feet in length with a six foot rise. It is used for the Snowflakes children’s program. Mighty Mite is a 600 foot rope tow, with a 40-50 foot rise. It accommodates 550 skiers per hour. Snowbird, a double chair lift that rises about 300 feet in 1,800 feet, has a capacity of 800 skiers per hour. Eagle Rock is a quad chair that travels 3,300 feet with a vertical rise of 600 feet. It carries 2,400 skiers an hour. On busy days, the Snowbird lift has the longest waits – which are rarely more than 10 minutes. INFORMATION AND ANALYSIS The success of the ski hill is dependent on uncontrollable factors – snow and weather conditions are obviously the most important factors. Every four years, the number of skier days seems to increase – and this correlates with the Winter Olympics which seems to provide good marketing for snow sports. Since the TD ski area is at lower altitude than prime ski areas, only has a vertical rise of 600 feet, and does not make snow, the ski hill does not compete with Squaw Valley, Northstar, Sugar Bowl, Alpine Meadows, etc., and is not priced to do so. It is a very good novice to intermediate ski hill. The competition are the other smaller, less vertical ski hills, such as Soda Springs, Donner Ski Ranch, and perhaps Boreal – although the latter two have more lifts and trails than TD. The lift ticket prices appropriately reflect the beginner/intermediate nature of the ski hill, with 2005-06 daily/half day rates of $18/$13 for TD property owners, and $10/6 for PO seniors and children. For the general public, the daily/half day rates were $34/21 for adults, and $13/$8 for seniors and children. Season passes and midweek/non- holiday passes are available for adults, seniors, and children as well. No discounts are provided to property owners on equipment rental, ski school, in the retail shop, and in the food and beverage operation. Ski package rentals were $24 for adults and $15 for children during the 2005-06 season, and snowboard rentals were $33 and $25 respectively. Demo skis are also available at $35. Discounts are provided for multi-day rentals. Table 2.3.1 illustrates the weather and calendar-related issues. The 2005-06 season was shortened by lack of snow (the hill could not open until December 27th), the hill was closed by severe weather on the prime holiday days of December 31st and January 1st, as well as three other days during the season, and drew 40,626 user days, compared to approximately 47,000 the previous two years. The average number of users per day in 2005-06 was 446, 10% higher than the previous seasons, but the significant reduction in days open could not be overcome. Approximately 1/3 of the downhill ski users are property owners and their guests, and 2/3 are public users. This varies – property owners represent a higher proportion on prime holidays (sometimes public users are turned away if the area is over-capacity) and a lower percentage midweek. According to the recent TD demographic survey, 67% of TD property owners used the downhill ski hill in the past year, only trailing Trout Creek and the Beach Club among amenities used. Twelve percent of the property owners used the ski hill 10 times or more, just above the 11% of property owners who used the golf course 10 or more times. Thus, while the public represent the majority of ski hill users, many TD property owners use the ski hill and it is a popular amenity. The results of the recent Demographic Survey show satisfaction with the Tahoe Donner ski area. Almost 85% of respondents gave good to excellent ratings for service and quality of instructors at the ski area; 82% gave good or excellent ratings to the Snowflakes children’s program. In the overall rating of satisfaction, 65% gave the ski area a good or excellent rating, and only 4% gave it a poor rating. Satisfaction level with the ski hill cafeteria was not as good, only 41% gave it a good or excellent rating, and 12% gave it a poor rating. 2006 Tahoe Donner Association General Plan Update 20 As shown in Table 2.3.2, The TD Ski Hill did very well on prime holiday days, with the percentage use of 103- 114% of a calculated 1,300 skier capacity over the past three seasons. The capacity is based on parking capacity. Ski school, the Snowflakes kids program, and the rental shop also operate at or above their capacity on prime holiday days. On regular weekends and regular holidays, the hill operated at 38-59% of capacity during the past three seasons, with regular weekends outdrawing holiday days. The rental shop did somewhat better, operating at 60-66% of capacity on weekends and 47-68% on regular holidays. The rental job is not operating efficiently at 60- 66% percent of capacity. During the past three seasons, the ski area has met or exceeded its “capacity” only 22 days; 9 in 2003-04, 8 in 2004- 05, and 5 during the 2005-06 season. This is the number of days when parking, rentals, food service, the Snowflakes program, and locker usage overwhelms the facility. Lift capacity is virtually never a limiting factor. Table 2.3.1. Trends in Downhill Ski Area Utilization: 2003 - 2006 Days Open 2003-04 season 2004-05 season 2005-06 season - prime holiday days 12 9 6 - holiday days 15 27 17 - weekend days 24 18 16 - weekdays 68 65 52 Total Days Open 119 119 91 Total Attendance 47,573 47,078 40,626 Attendance/day 400 396 446 In terms of financial results, the net operating results, shown in Table 2.3.3, show the fluctuation, with 1998 and 2002, Olympic years, showing either an insignificant loss or a profit. From 2001 through 2005, ski hill revenue represented 96 percent of operating expenses, within the target set by TD management for public amenities. If December 2006 is good, the Ski Area manager expects the 2006 calendar year net to be positive. Like other TD amenities this ratio of revenue to expenses does not include allocated Association overhead or capital improvements. Because the ski area has a large payroll, a large amount of Association allocated overhead is applied to the final net results, so the financial results with overhead are considerably worse. However, much of the Association overhead would still occur in the absence of the ski hill, and would be re-allocated to other amenities. Because of the trend in the ski industry, which shows flat to declining participation in the sport, the long-term viability of the ski hill operation is uncertain. Many larger ski areas seem to be thriving on real estate transactions rather than skier revenue. Short-term steps to marginally increase parking and increase space for the Snowflakes ski school and rental shop would enhance the skier experience and deal with some of the larger deficiencies on the hill that show themselves primarily on nice weather weekends and holidays. A function by function analysis of the existing building suggested that approximately 20,600 square feet would be ideal, about 90 % larger than the existing 11,000 sq.ft. building (not including the 4,200 sq.ft. deck). To develop an efficient plan would require the ski lodge to be replaced, which would represent an $8-10+ million capital investment for the Association, an investment that is used primarily for only four months of the year. The location within the ski bowl condominiums is limiting, as substantial expansion of the building and an attempt to use it for year round purposes (another recreation center, etc.) would be difficult. To build a new lodge would probably require multiple sprung structures for an interim year, as there really is no alternative appropriate site for a 10,000 sq. ft. plus footprint (two-story) ski lodge. The parking limitation and requirement to shuttle facility users has limited the off-season use of the facility for conferences, parties, etc. 2006 Tahoe Donner Association General Plan Update 21 FINDINGS AND RECOMMENDATIONS Finding No. 1 Reaching a more definitive decision on recommendations for the ski lodge requires detail study that is beyond the capability of the General Plan Committee. Detailed analysis should include: • Identifying short- and long-term maintenance needs that are required to maintain the long-term viability of the building, including the structure, foundations, utility systems, deck, etc. • Identifying concepts for a larger, new facility that would fit in with the surrounding ski hill condominiums if structure replacement is found to be required for long-term operation. • Identify short-term facility modifications/expansion that would increase level of service and be economically justified. Recommendation A That the Association retain appropriate consultants to evaluate the long-term structural and functional viability of the ski lodge building. _X_ YES ___ NO PRIORITY NUMBER: 2 Finding No. 2 Given the difficult logistics and high cost of replacing the ski lodge, incremental improvements seem a more appropriate way to proceed in the short-term. Pending more technical analysis, remodeling and upgrading projects that can be accomplished in the 8-month period between seasons seem to be the way to extend the life of the building for another 5-15 years, pending detailed analysis. If industry trends improve and homeowner interest expands, the replacement decision can be re-considered in the future. Recommendation B Appropriate steps needed should be taken to maintain and upgrade the existing building, including replacing the roof, replacing leaking windows, etc. _X_ YES ___ NO PRIORITY NUMBER: 1 Finding No. 3 The current lodge space is inefficient and insufficient for the variety of functional activities. The rental function is severely constrained by lack of space, bathroom space is inadequate, and the cafeteria/bar space is poorly laid out. Recommendation C Because of the space limitations, the Association should consider moving the rental function to an adjacent seasonal sprung structure of perhaps 2,500 square feet (about 35 by 72 feet), approximately double its current space. Moving the rental shop out of the existing lodge would eliminate a major source of “pedestrian traffic congestion” from the existing lodge, and free up 1,250 sq.ft. that could be used for other crowded functions including additional lockers, space for the Snowflakes program, and expanded bathrooms. TD needs to investigate alternative locations for the sprung structure – the site near the ticket office proposed in the past is very close to condominiums and within the viewshed of many of them. A site dug into the hill either between the deck and the lifts (if possible to do so without obscuring the view from the deck), or between the lodge and the container storage area would be visible to fewer units. In addition, we believe that a white seasonal sprung structure should be more acceptable to the owners of the condominiums, particularly since TD has committed to bury the shipping containers currently used for storage. Many other ski resorts use sprung structures during the season, including Sugar Bowl. The opposition of some ski bowl property owners should not prevent TD from taking necessary steps to maintain the viability of the ski hill amenity. The bar should be reduced in size and the cafeteria re-organized to improve the customer flow. A small covered snack bar should be considered for the deck area. If a decision is made to retain the existing building in the long- term, the potential of a small supplemental bathroom building closer to the lifts should be considered. ___ YES _X_ NO Already a part of Recommendation A & B 2006 Tahoe Donner Association General Plan Update 22 Finding No. 4 Although the ski hill is highly used by members as well as the public, the financial performance is inadequate. There are several steps the Association should consider to increase revenue at the ski hill. Recommendation D 1. Consideration should be given to restricting comps on prime holidays. On several prime holiday sessions during the 2005-06 seasons, comps represented 51-87 people out of 1400-1500 users. If potential public users were turned away because of comps, this represents $1,500-3,000 in lost revenue per day. Many other ski areas limit comps on prime days and some even do not allow use of regular passes on prime holidays. We understand that comps are not available at the golf course on weekends so restricting comps at the ski hill would not establish precedent. 2. Evaluate the potential to add a small premium to adult rates on prime holidays. Sugar Bowl raises their adult rates from $46 to $59, and Alpine Meadows raises the adult rate from $41 to $49 on prime holidays. A $3-4 increase for adult property owners and public users would increase revenue. The 2005-06 public prices are well positioned between the few less expensive, less attractive areas, and the mid-priced larger facilities, such as Alpine Meadows and Homewood. 3. Continue the program of reducing employee and other expenses wherever possible. ___ YES _X_ NO Operational item Finding No. 5 The Association should consider multiple strategies to increase public parking availability for the downhill ski facility. Recommendation E Employee parking should be relocated on prime holidays, with employees shuttled to the hill to open up an additional 30 spaces. This would allow another 100 patrons without overly impacting street parking. In addition, the Association should consider: 1. Creating 10-15 additional off-street parking spaces along the edges of the “lower” lot without impacting neighbor views or wetlands. 2. Consider the creation of an auxiliary joint downhill/cross country/hiking parking lot on Skislope (with a card swipe to allow direct access to the hill) as described in the land use section. ___ YES _X_ NO Operational item 2006 Tahoe Donner Association General Plan Update 23 Table 2.3.3. Financial Results of Tahoe Donner Downhill Ski Area: 1996-2005 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 Revenue $587,142 $872,331 $1,067,429 $901,054 $1,135,290 $1,224,120 $1,499,557 $1,460,546 $1,607,600 $1,311,856 Operating Expenses $790,139 $881,269 $1,071,529 $1,083,125 $1,194,829 $1,282,130 $1,443,438 $1,539,566 $1,662,359 $1,480,595 Net Operating Results -$202,997 -$8,938 -$4,100 -$182,071 -$59,539 -$58,010 $56,119 -$79,020 -$54,759 -$168,739 Cost Recovery 74% 99% 99.6% 83% 95% 95% 104% 95% 97% 89% Allocated Overhead $93,665 $78,919 $85,204 $95,403 $127,972 $150,222 $193,782 $211,410 $236,345 $287,374 Net Results with Overhead -$296,662 -$87,857 -$89,304 -$277,474 -$187,511 -$208,232 -$137,663 -$290,430 -$291,104 -$456,113 Cost Recovery Ratio 66% 91% 92% 76% 86% 85% 92% 83% 85% 74% Capital Expenses Na Na Na Na Na Na $163,072 $292,446 $382,145 $456,092 Net Results with Allocated Overhead & Capital Expense Na Na Na Na Na Na -$300,735 -$582,876 -$673,249 -$912,205 P/O Yearly Assessment/Contribution $46.27 $89.67 $103.58 $140.34 Usage Interpolated PO Tickets 7,508 9,587 9,425 9,550 9,675 9,800 11,072 12,094 10,320 8,011 Guest Tickets 1,621 Public Tickets 18,509 26,055 26,339 26,464 26,589 31,525 39,273 33,676 30,323 21,373 Employee Tickets 125 250 246 564 406 835 835 Season Pass Use 1,950 2,350 3,400 3,525 3,650 494 945 1,284 1,291 1,291 Total 27,967 37,992 39,164 39,664 40,164 42,065 51,854 47,460 42,769 33,131 PO Season Passes (#) 226 194 243 284 293 Public Season Passes (#) 15 9 33 70 26 Combo Passes (#) 81 84 120 150 176 2006 Tahoe Donner Association General Plan Update 24 Table 2.2.2. Tahoe Donner Downhill Ski Hill: Utilization Statistics: 2003-2006 Utilization Percentage Midweek Weekend Prime Holiday Regular Holiday 05-06 04-05 03-04 05-06 04-05 03-04 05-06 04-05 03-04 05-06 04-05 03-04 Skier Use Capacity 1300 1300 1300 1300 1300 1300 1300 1300 1300 1300 1300 1300 Use % of Capacity 11% 10% 9% 59% 54% 54% 114% 103% 112% 38% 50% 55% Ski School Capacity 150 150 150 150 150 150 150 150 150 150 150 150 Ski School % of Capacity 14% 13% 13% 55% 53% 54% 106% 95% 107% 45% 57% 57% Snowflakes Capacity 60 80 80 60 80 80 60 80 80 60 80 80 Snowflakes % of Capacity 26% 22% 18% 84% 67% 62% 109% 97% 86% 63% 60% 61% Rental Capacity 425 425 425 425 425 425 425 425 425 425 425 425 Rental % of Capacity 15% 12% 12% 66% 59% 60% 107% 104% 113% 47% 64% 68% Other Data Midweek Weekend Prime Holiday Regular Holiday 05-06 04-05 03-04 05-06 04-05 03-04 05-06 04-05 03-04 05-06 04-05 03-04 Member, Guest, Public Member % of Skier Uses 24% 24% 22% 31% 26% 29% 38% 34% 40% 30% 27% 26% Guest % of Skier Uses 5% 6% 4% 6% 5% 5% 7% 7% 6% 5% 5% 5% Public % of Skier Uses 71% 70% 74% 63% 69% 66% 55% 59% 54% 65% 68% 69% 2006 Tahoe Donner Association General Plan Update 25 2.4 EQUESTRIAN CENTER PURPOSE The purpose of this portion of this element is to review the equestrian facility and operations to determine adequacy and future long-term needs (if any). Specifically, the goal is to review capacity, usage, revenue and costs of operation of the facility. BACKGROUND General The equestrian center is located on Alder Creek Road and shares part of a 4,200 square foot facility with the Nordic ski center. Since 1992 the center has been managed by Tahoe Donner. The season of operation extends from approximately mid-June through Labor Day for daily operations, subject to weather conditions. Trail rides, lessons, and pony rides are offered during the month of September on weekends by appointment only. Boarding operations begin in mid-June, weather permitting. There are currently 53 horses owned by the Tahoe Donner Association although it is anticipated this number will reduce to 36 or 37 head by winter. There is a major push to upgrade the stock with $24,000 budgeted for each of three years to purchase up to 12 stock a year. This is an effort to obtain better all around stock and to phase out some of the older stock. Squaw Valley stables are closing and they are liquidating their stock. There is the potential for additional stock from them. All the older Tahoe Donner stock is being sold for a nominal fee and may be boarded together under a special program at the stables in coordination with the new owners. During the winter months, historically the stock has been housed on a dairy farm in Farmington. This changed because many of the horses went lame due to wet fields and too much rich grass. Significant costs were incurred housing them last year in Grass Valley because the amount of rain resulted in little or no pasture and required the purchase of feed. This winter, the horses will be pastured in Farmington on a different farm. This farm has both irrigated and non-irrigated pasture offering the opportunity to move the horses to a non-irrigated field once there is spring grass. Hopefully this will keep them from going lame. The equestrian activities include boarding of horses, trail rides, pony rides, lessons, and camps for children. Additionally the facility can be rented for special events such as weddings and parties. The Saturday night barbecues, birthday parties and other special events help add to revenue and are popular. Boarding The capacity for boarding horses is 29. There is considerable capacity in the barn, only 50% are rented with five rented to property owners and one to the public. There are 12 box stalls located in the barn, and 17 pipe stalls located outside - 14 covered and 3 open. The 12 sheltered box stalls are the only ones provided at an equestrian facility in the Tahoe basin. There are approximately 70 horses on the property at this time, both private and owned by the association. Trail Rides The condition of the stock limited the number of trail horses available for trail rides over the last two years. In 2005, due to the condition of the stock only 5-6 horses were available for these rides rather than the typical 7-10. Weather permitting, trail rides are offered daily from June through August. In September, trail rides, pony rides and lessons are offered only on the weekends. Following the safety rule of no more than six horses per guide, capacity is often reached on weekends and weekdays during July and August. Groups larger than 6 people can make special arrangements and mid week groups can also request special accommodation. Over 38 miles of trails at varying elevation are used. Additionally the equestrian facility uses Euer Valley and Forest Service lands for trail rides. There are no budgeted funds for horse trails, mitigating erosion or environmental impacts or maintenance. 2006 Tahoe Donner Association General Plan Update 26 Lessons Lessons are available throughout the summer from qualified instructors, and at scheduled times horsemanship camps for children are also offered. Lessons are generally full. The Camp Program includes about 12 kids for each of three hours in the morning and three hours in the afternoon. Generally the camps serve about 20 youth a day. These camps are popular and teach a full range of riding and equestrian skills including care and feeding of the horses. Many of the existing stock that is being sold for a nominal fee were purchased by kids from the camp who have grown attached to these horses. Facility In addition to facilities for boarding, the site includes a small tack shack, two riding arenas and four large turn-out areas with ample room for expansion. Parking is adequate for normal weekend and day use. This facility is under utilized. Usage Boarding usage is below capacity. The manager is addressing this by proposing a range of boarding options from full service to partial services with reduced prices including options where cleaning and feeding are not included. It is anticipated the reduction in prices and staff time would increase revenues. Trail-ride usage closely matches the availability of horses and guides through much of the summer. Staff reports that trail rides must be reserved two to three days in advance during July, August, and on weekends. Property owners accounted for over 50 percent of the trail-ride usage. There are two primary reasons why usage dropped significantly in 2005; the amenity was closed to the public (only property owners and guests), and there was a shortage of healthy horses. Usage recovered somewhat in 2006. Table 2.4.1. Tahoe Donner Equestrian Center Usage Trends 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 Property Owners 4,377 5,238 3,982 3,575 1,981 Guests/public 1,734 1,213 1,468 1,289 515 TOTAL 6,111 6,451 5,450 4,964 2,496 EQUESTRIAN CENTER USAGE 0 1,000 2,000 3,000 4,000 5,000 6,000 7,000 20012002200320042005 YEARS VI S I T S Guests/public Property Owners 2006 Tahoe Donner Association General Plan Update 27 Equestrian $0 $50,000 $100,000 $150,000 $200,000 $250,000 $300,000 $350,000 19 9 4 19 9 5 19 9 6 19 9 7 19 9 8 " 19 9 9 20 0 0 20 0 1 20 0 2 20 0 3 20 0 4 20 0 5 Revenue Operating Expenses Cost Recovery Ratio 0% 20% 40% 60% 80% 19941995199619971998"1999200020012002200320042005 Capacity Both sheltered and unsheltered boarding capacity is available to both property owners and the public through a reservation system. Staff reports there is considerable boarding capacity available both for long term and short term periods. To address this lack of use a range of boarding options are going to be offered. Trail-ride capacity is limited by the number of horses in good condition and number of guide/instructors hired. The mileage of trails provides ample capacity for greater activity. Last year and for the next three years it is anticipated trail stock will be purchased by the association to increase the number of horses available for trail rides, camps and lessons. Currently the association owns 49 horses although the preferred number is 30 to 32 along with 5 ponies. This allows for stock rotation on the trail rides. The present increase is due to the upgrading of the stock that is presently underway. Staffing Current staff includes twenty persons, which consists of one full-time manager, approximately six full-time persons and eight to thirteen part-time persons. If the demand for lessons increases, additional staffing is possible. Environmental Compliance Issues, Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Compliance and Other Regulations The equestrian facility is located in a wetlands area that drains into Alder Creek. The building and corrals could never be built in their present location under today's standards. There are concerns that polluted runoff from the center and corral area may enter Alder Creek. Any expansion would have to take these parameters into account. In light of this wet setting, environmental reports of the operation must continue to be considered. Serious fines or upgrades to mitigate the facility are likely. Moving the main corral or mitigating the impacts of fecal contaminated runoff need to be considered. A plan for the control of storm water runoff is highly recommended. 2006 Tahoe Donner Association General Plan Update 28 Access to the flat facility generally does not present a problem to people with disabilities. A ramp meeting ADA Regulations was constructed during the summer of 1998, allowing for access to the restrooms located at the south end of the building. Any expansion of this amenity would need to be in compliance with ADA regulations. Revenue and Total Cost The chart below shows total equestrian revenue and costs for the last five years. It should be noted that the operation was under contract management up until 1992 when the association decided to manage the amenity in-house. Table 2.4.2. Equestrian Center Operating Results 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 Revenue $169,809 $185,688 $206,681 $193,194 $155,506 Operating Expense $275,410 $301,146 $290,040 $291,958 $302,157 Net Operating Results -$105,601 -$115,458 -$83,359 -$98,764 -$146,651 Allocated Overhead $32,269 $40,429 $39,828 $ 50,513 $ 49,351 Net Results with Overhead -$137,870 -$155,887 -$123,187 -$149,277 -$196,002 Cost Recovery Ratio 55% 54% 63% 56% 44% Capital Expenses/Funding Na $24,896 $36,958 $39,282 $28,310 Net Results with Overhead and Capital Expenses -$180,783 -$160,145 -$188,559 -$224,312 Property Owner Yearly Assessment/Contribution $27.81 $24.64 $29.01 $34.51 Miscellaneous Information It is currently estimated that only about 10 parcel owners using the equestrian center for full-time boarding. Approximately an additional 10 members use the facility for temporary boarding. INFORMATION AND ANALYSIS The amenity manager reports no long-term need for expansion. Other needs (i.e., fencing, stock replacement, stalls, tack and storage) are being addressed in the short-term via budgeting requests. The manager has been creative in efforts to boost revenue by adding alternative Boarding rates, special events etc. The amenity consistently operates at a deficit. New environmental permits and regulations requiring all confined animal facilities and any facility discharging into the waters of the state to prevent or mitigate polluting discharges may also increase the costs of operation. Despite the popularity of the amenity, continued operation of the amenity must be carefully considered. It should be noted that a relatively low number of the properties (663 out of a possible 6300) indicate that they have used this amenity. It should also be noted that this is the premier facility of its kind in the Tahoe basin. Many facilities are closing or do not offer the full range of boarding options and trail rides. The Tahoe Donner Equestrian Center is the premier Equestrian Center in the North Tahoe area. With the closing of the Squaw Valley facility, the only competition left is the Northstar facility, Camp Richardson, Zephyr Cove and a private facility near the CHP Weigh Station on I-80, which focuses on indoor arena activities. With this apparent opportunity to gain revenue to support the operation, it is of grave concern to see the decline in usage and revenue over the past several years. The immediate question is whether this is an industry trend that we can do little about, or is it a Tahoe Donner problem that requires new management strategies. It is difficult to believe that a 38% decline (1,981 in 2005 vs. 5,238 in 2002) in Tahoe Donner property owner usage is comparable with the overall trend in the industry. 2006 Tahoe Donner Association General Plan Update 29 The reduction in usage did not result in a reduction in operating expense, further increasing the deficit. Whether this trend can be reversed is a major factor in the type of recommendations the GPC can and should make. Typically the Covenants and Restrictions require a 2/3 vote of the property owners to close an amenity. It is not clear whether this applies to the trail rides and day camp or merely to the boarding aspect. In any event, the Association should continually monitor and analyze amenities that show low interest and usage by the membership and evaluate the viability of continued operation. Even in the event there is increased usage by the public, this begs the question as to how well this amenity is serving a broad range of property owners. For purposes of this discussion, let’s assume there are sufficient interested parties in the North Tahoe area to support a quality facility. The GPC recommends a thorough market evaluation of the potential and how Tahoe Donner can capture sufficient revenue to help the Equestrian Center approach self sufficiency. While the scope of a full market analysis is beyond the resources of the GPC, we make the following suggestions in the context of a classical Market Analysis for the Association to consider: Equestrian Center Definition: • Identification of money-making activities. If Horse Camp is a money maker or potential money maker, expand the program, promote such to members and the public and develop a reputation for an outstanding program. If an activity is losing money, find out why and evaluate if the program can be made to at least break even. If not, reduce or eliminate. • Create programs that increase participation. We should develop offerings designed for the novice and first time users. Advertise/promote trail rides into scenic areas. A ride designed to promote first time riders that included a short instruction period, a ride into Euer Valley, a picnic, historic geography short talks, etc. might bring out first time users. If the experience is positive, we would likely create new participants in other Equestrian Center programs. • Upgrade trail rides to include nature talks, history talks, review of the geography designed to draw people who enjoy nature and the outdoors. Promote in the same ways the Kayak trips on Donner Lake have been promoted. Equestrian Center Positioning: • The center point of what TD has to offer is our spectacular scenic trail system. Are we building our offerings around that exclusive feature? • We have always been the high quality offering in the North Tahoe area. We should continue to emphasize that fact and further develop it. • Our competition is no longer (perhaps has never been) other Equestrian operations. It is other outdoor, scenic activities. Recognize that and include in the way we present the Equestrian Center. Equestrian Center Pricing: • Since the TDEQ is the premier, high quality center of its kind, we should (carefully) adjust our prices accordingly. For those who truly enjoy the experience, we should charge an appropriate fee that represents what it costs us to provide that service. • Pricing should reflect both real and perceived value to potential clients. These values should be reflected in the way we advertise and promote the services. Equestrian Center Promotion: • Increase awareness. There seems to be little advertising of this facility and how it might enhance the Tahoe Donner experience. Even within our own membership, it is amazing at times at how little people are aware of what is available. Increasing the awareness and the comfort level of trying the facility should be a constant message presented to our members and the public. • Much of TD’s use of facilities is by extended families (grandchildren, nieces, nephews, etc). Our advertising program should focus on such activities (such as Horse Camp and Grandpa and Grandma’s, etc.) • A facility such as the Equestrian Center is a strong candidate for creating events that are fun for our members and generate interest in further participation. The BBQ rides have been very 2006 Tahoe Donner Association General Plan Update 30 popular, and could be refined to enhance the experience and increase interest in other activities. Perhaps combining with the Campfire activity at the Campground to create a “Hoedown” as a summer time “event” should be considered. These are just suggestions for consideration. The important objective is to improve the quality of the offerings of the Equestrian Center and create sufficient revenue to maintain operations. Other options to be considered could include a reuse concept that provides boarding for property owners, but expands the summer day use and camping program and eliminates the trail rides and horse riding aspects. This would utilize the facility, expand revenues and could reduce the equestrian costs. FINDINGS AND RECOMMENDATIONS Finding No 1 Revenue is down, costs are up, and usage has declined. Recommendation A Staff need to look for additional ways to boost revenue including exploration of: promoting use, increasing revenue centers such as adding food services, equipment sales, and also reviewing revenue by examining riding and boarding fees, and adding additional programs that could generate revenue. ___ YES _X_ NO Recommendation B If usage and financial performance does not improve within a few years, staff need to look at other ways to use the equestrian center that would better utilize this facility in the summer including expanding the day camp program, housing the camp at the facility and expanding the day camp to include nature walks, arts and crafts, various outdoor games and a ropes course. The present equestrian center could be limited to just boarding where boarders tend their own stock or the facility should be closed. YES _X_ NO Finding No 2 Water quality control laws and environmental requirements have recently changed regarding water pollution control measures from confined animal facilities and storm water discharges. Recommendation C Staff need to proactively work with the Regional Water Quality Control Board to ensure they are operating the facility in compliance with the rules and regulations controlling polluted runoff. _X_ YES ___ NO PRIORITY NUMBER: 1 Finding No 3 No money is budgeted for the horse trail system or erosion control. Other users such as hikers and bicyclist complain their experience is diminished from the excessive impact on the trail system. Recommendation D The Board should consider adding to the equestrian center budget sufficient funds to monitor and control runoff and sufficient funds to the forestry department to maintain the trails used by the horses. _X_ YES ___ NO PRIORITY NUMBER: 1 New Recommendation Recommendation E The Board will review the Equestrian Center items again once the Lahontan Regional Water Quality Control Board Study and Findings have been reported. 2006 Tahoe Donner Association General Plan Update 31 2. 5 GOLF COURSE & DRIVING RANGE BACKGROUND The Tahoe Donner Golf Course was completed in two stages. The first nine holes opened in approximately 1975 and the second nine holes in 1976. According to John Thiel, the Project Manager for Dart during the completion and sale of lots in Tahoe Donner, the golf course was viewed as an integral part of valuation of the lots for sale. It was his opinion that the lots would not have sold without the golf course. The golf course is one of the most important Association amenities in terms of use, size of budget, and resources required to operate the facility. Public play and public season passes are a major revenue producer for the golf course. The golf season is weather dependent, with the course normally opening sometime between late-May to mid-June and closing in mid-October. INFORMATION AND ANALYSIS Facilities The course underwent extensive renovation in 2005 and 2006 with tee boxes and bunkers being added or sculpted, large area of a number of fairways graded with new sod laid, and many trees removed. The Pro Shop moved into the new “Lodge” building for the start of the 2006 season. The renovation limited play for the first several months of each season. As a result of the limited play the revenues for 2005 and 2006 are abnormally low. Bill Winfield, Director of Golf, reports that the new Pro Shop is too small for current needs and suggested a new 1,500 square foot building be constructed in the area adjacent to the practice green and chipping area. This would expand the size of the sales area and office as well as open expansion opportunities for the food and catering services of the Lodge. The Snack Bar located adjacent to the current pro shop has not worked well for a variety of reasons. As a result it has been closed and the space is being converted to a cold storage area for the Lodge. Golfers now must call ahead from the 9th tee and order food items that can be picked up from the Lodge bar area. Golfers find this very inconvenient and, with the sporadic food & beverage cart service, the course will become less popular. The recent renovations and continued high level of maintenance should ensure sufficient operations for the next 20 years with the following exceptions. Tee boxes become crowned with usage and will need leveling and bunkers will need sand replacement and edges soded in 15 years. The purchase of 2 walking mowers and addition of 2 groundskeepers would eliminate the need for leveling the tee boxes. The addition of another well is currently being reviewed by the Finance Committee. The Driving Range is located adjacent to the Trout Creek Fitness Center. It consists of artificial tees, protective wooden barriers between sets of tees and netting on both sides of the range. A small shack contains the ball dispenser, ball washer and assorted maintenance items. The installation of new grass tees and target greens is recommended for the driving range. The installation of new tees will resolve maintenance issues and eliminate the safety issue of errant balls hitting the current wooden dividers between the tee areas and coming back to hit players. Storage is a big issue as it is with many Tahoe Donner amenities. The Course requires an additional 100 square feet for winter storage of carts. This will enable better use of the existing maintenance and storage area, and it will provide summer storage for the winter amenities. The Range needs 400 square feet of new building for the ball machine and maintenance. Equipment Major course equipment consists of maintenance machinery and rental carts. Replacement of maintenance equipment is accomplished in the normal budgeting process. Golf carts are leased from Ingersoll Rand for a 2006 Tahoe Donner Association General Plan Update 32 5 year period running from 2005 – 2010. The lease is $51,580 per year for 80 carts. As an incentive Ingersoll Rand included 2 additional carts and one utility vehicle at no charge The Pro Shop stocks items commonly needed by golfers and provides rental clubs as needed. Usage The overall number of rounds played is dependent on the number of days the course is open with 2004 being the last full season of operation due to course renovation. The normal capacity of the course is determined by the amount of daily plays it can support. With over 24,000 paid rounds played in 2003 Tahoe Donner experiences more play per season than any other course in the Truckee area. Maximum capacity is seen on weekends and holidays with 110 rounds played on July 4, 2006. August of 2006 saw a 600 round increase over August of 2005. This may be partially due to the course renovation being completed with the full course opening in early July of 2006, nearly a month earlier than was possible with the 2005 renovation. Table 2.5.1. Tahoe Donner Golf Course Usage: 2003-2006 2003 2003 2004 2004 2005 2005 Member Pay per Round 7,685 $225,649 8,913 $292,812 7,549 $259,922 Member Pass Play 8,232 $158,700 8,231 $134,126 5,899 $116,006 Guest Play 3,638 $183,640 4,251 $233,410 3,339 $168,475 Public Play 1,355 $99,076 1,690 $140,535 663 $45,822 Total Paid Rounds 20,910 $667,065 23.085 $843,707 17,450 $613,302 Comp/Staff 2,485 0 1997 0 1,948 0 Total Rounds 23,395 25,082 19,398 Packages* 0 0 0 $42,824 $23,077 Cart Rental 9,131 $165,883 10,942 $176,314 9,138 $148,117 Pro Shop & Misc. $84,176 $132,415 $107,064 Driving Range $72,773 $78,385 $62,527 Product Total $974,776 $1,209,736 $913,418 Discounts Fees/Retail -$15,139 -$21,101 -$17,880 G/L Total $975,978 $1,209,800 $913,950 * Packages = 5 & 10 play tickets 2006 Tahoe Donner Association General Plan Update 33 Table 2.5.2. Golf Course Season Pass and Complimentary Rounds 2003 2004 2005 Number of passes 291 208 345 Number of Pass Rounds 8,232 8,231 13,448 Revenue $158,700 $134,126 $116,006 Ave. Green Fee per Pass Round $19 $16 $20 Ave. Green Fee per Member Paid Round $29 $33 $34 Number of comps 2485 1997 1948 Cost of Comps = Ave. member green fee x comps $72,065 $65,901 $66,232 Table 2.5.3. Comparable Course Fee Analysis Golf Course Comparables 2006 Rates (1) (2) Golf Course Member Rate Guest Rate Pass Rate Public Rate* Ponderosa none None None $104 North star none None $99 Coyote Moon none $150 Old Greenwood none $170 Gray’s Crossing none NA Squaw Valley $85-$125 Tahoe Donner 5/7 Day $45 $70 $615/$940 $120 (1.) Data from GolfLink.com (2.) Some include cart and/or range balls. 2006 Tahoe Donner Association General Plan Update 34 Table 2.5.4. Golf Course Revenue and Expense Trends: 2001-2005 FINDINGS AND RECOMMNEDATIONS The renovations competed in 2005 – 2006 make Tahoe Donner’s Golf Course competitive with other courses in the North Lake Tahoe region. Tahoe Donner’s lower rates vs. higher rates of competing courses, and the growing population of Tahoe Donner will continue to place pressure on available tee times, especially weekends and holidays. GOLF COURSE Finding No. 1 The course is nearing capacity play on weekdays and it is anticipated it will exceed capacity on weekends and holidays. Recommendation A The current procedures allowing unlimited complimentary rounds per week should be reviewed and modified to fit competing courses practices of restricting complimentary rounds to staff. ___ YES _X_ NO Finding No. 2 Golfers are frustrated by the quality and availability or food and beverage service. Recommendation B Ways to improve quality and delivery of food and beverage services available to golfers should be analyzed. Anecdotal information indicates strong property owner support for this. CURRENTLY IN PROCESS and/or ALREADY COMPLETED Finding No. 3 There is a need to preserve quality and reduce maintenance of tee boxes. Recommendation C Course management recommends the purchase 2 walking mowers and add 2 greens keepers. CURRENTLY IN PROCESS and/or ALREADY COMPLETED Finding No. 4 Adequate storage space is a continuing problem for the golf course and Lodge. 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 Revenue (after COGS) $1,001,872 $905,253 $1,149,649 $862,241 Operating Expenses $1,000,003 $1,097,220 $1,115,658 $1,197,622 $1,304,546 Net Operating Results $1,869 -$67,107 -$210,405 -$47,973 -$442,305 Allocated Overhead $117,166 $147,301 $153,200 $121,410 $105,959 Net Results with Overhead -$115,297 -$214,408 -$363,605 -$169,383 -$548,264 Cost Recovery Ratio 90% 83% 71% 87% 61% Capital Expenses/Funding n/a $393,363 $392,071 $372,325 $348,644 Net Results with Overhead/Capital Expenses n/a -$607,771 -$755,676 -$541,708 -$896,728 P/O Yearly Assessment/ Contribution n/a $93.50 $116.26 $83.34 $137.96 2006 Tahoe Donner Association General Plan Update 35 Recommendation D Storage and maintenance requirements should be studied. _X_ YES ___ NO PRIORITY NUMBER: 2 Finding No. 5 Golf management recommends constructing a new Pro Shop located between the first tee and the practice chipping area. This would provide a larger sales area and office and would release space for Lodge food and beverage operations. Recommendation E There does not seem to be property owner support for additional expenditure at this time. _X_ YES ___ NO PRIORITY NUMBER: 2 There are Board/Staff members who have interest in exploring this further. Finding No. 6 Continue the current high quality level of course maintenance. Recommendation F Periodically review the existing proposal to refurbish the well on number 4 and to construct a large storage tank. This will reduce dependence upon the Truckee Public Utility District’s (TPUD) water resources. This would be in addition to the one existing well and will provide 6 water supply connections to the course; 4 from the TPUD and 2 from on-site wells. Current estimated cost is $1,500,000 - $1,750,000. The proposal has been reviewed by the Tahoe Donner Finance Committee which concluded the project was not justified at this time. Future water shortages or cost factors may increase the viability of this proposal. _X_ YES ___ NO PRIORITY NUMBER: 3 DRIVING RANGE Finding No. 1 There is a safety concern by golf course management of errant balls ricocheting off wooden barriers and striking players. Recommendation A Renovate tee areas to permit use of grass areas for practice tees. ___ YES _X_ NO Finding No. 2 There may be an opportunity to combine storage for golf course and Lodge with the Driving Range building. Recommendation B Study need for new building for ball machine and storage. CURRENTLY IN PROCESS and/or ALREADY COMPLETED 2006 Tahoe Donner Association General Plan Update 36 2.6 MAINTENANCE FACILITIES BENEFIT TO MEMBERSHIP Tahoe Donner property owners enjoy a wide variety of recreation opportunities and open space. Maintaining these facilities is critical to continued enjoyment and maintaining the value of our property. Maintenance requirements range from common area forest management, fire prevention, maintenance of association-owned buildings, ski hill equipment, ski hill and cross country grooming, golf course maintenance, snow removal, etc. This requires a maintenance force of motivated employees and a large amount of vehicles and equipment. Adequate maintenance facilities are critical to maintaining equipment and capital assets in good condition and for providing a safe and productive work environment. BACKGROUND Unfortunately, in the past, the maintenance operation has been considered only as ”necessary overhead” and over the years very limited planning has been made for the orderly development of the facilities needed to provide equipment maintenance and house maintenance assets. It is evident by touring the facilities that maintenance managers have had to "make do" with limited facilities during the growth of responsibilities and the acquisition of more equipment. The facilities show evidence of “band aid” solutions over the past 30 or more years, resulting in fragmented locations, buildings that are deficient in meeting basic requirements and working conditions that barely meet legal requirements. The objective in this planning element is to summarize the maintenance needs of the association and recommend a long range plan to provide adequate facilities to protect the equipment assets necessary to support desired services and amenities. It is important to note that consideration has been given in past years to contracting maintenance of various Tahoe Donner Association facilities to outside vendors. In each case, costs of maintenance were significantly higher. For an organization as large as Tahoe Donner, it is far more efficient, and considerably more effective, to do our own maintenance. The General Plan committee does not consider outsourcing as an acceptable means to meet the maintenance needs of the Association, and that investing in adequate facilities to meet the needs of the maintenance element is necessary. To operate the various amenities within the association requires well over two million dollars worth of equipment. Following is a quick overview: Vehicles and Large Equipment:  50 general purpose vehicles (pickups, SUV’s, etc.)  six large snow grooming machines  a dump truck  a water truck  two loaders  two tractors  a backhoe Forestry Equipment: wood chipping machines, chain saws, generators, water pumps, snowmobiles, snow blowers, and more. Some of the equipment is easily movable to a central location for maintenance work (pickup trucks); some are difficult to move off the work site (dozers, chippers, etc.). Hazardous Material: A component of the maintenance facilities include systems to fuel and lubricate equipment. While commonplace, using petroleum based fuels and lubricants can present significant potential liabilities to the association. Incorporating the latest fueling system technology can be very expensive and is still not foolproof, and we know from painful experience that spilling or leaking fuels pose a threat not only to the ecology of Tahoe Donner, but to our financial well-being as well. Currently, hazardous materials are stored and utilized at four locations: General Maintenance (fuel, paint, lubricants), Golf Maintenance (fuel for golf equipment, lubricants, fertilizers, chemicals), Vehicle Maintenance (lubricants, tires), and the “Top Shop” for snow grooming equipment (lubricants). 2006 Tahoe Donner Association General Plan Update 37 In addition, we are required to treat in settling ponds the runoff from pavement to make sure that these fluids do not pollute our valuable waterways. Any new or modified maintenance area will need to be planned carefully to insure that these environmental and safety issues are addressed. FUNCTIONAL RESPONSIBILITY There are currently four organizations that provide maintenance facilities to support various operations. At one time, all maintenance activities were housed at the Northwoods maintenance yard located near the intersection of Northwoods and Snowpeak. With the growth of amenities and the sophistication of improved maintenance techniques, the staff and their equipment outgrew the one location. These organizations and the associated facilities are as follows: 1. Golf Course Maintenance The association funded a new golf maintenance facility in 1996. With a new facility, this is the bright spot in TDA maintenance facilities. It is fully ADA accessible, has adequate office space, sanitation facilities, a staff meeting room and the necessary yard and building space to carry out the golf course maintenance function. The golf course maintenance operation is responsible for maintaining all golf maintenance equipment, golf rental carts, and greens and fairway maintenance equipment. This is a new facility located north of the golf clubhouse on Northwoods and adjacent to the cart storage barn and golf course hole #9. The Golf Course Maintenance staff considers the facilities adequate to meet the needs of golf maintenance for the foreseeable future and the GPC has not included any upgrades for this facility in the General Plan. 2. Ski Hill Equipment Maintenance Two snow cats are used as grooming machines at the downhill ski facilities. They are stored during the summer at the 'top shop' located on Skislope at the top of the hill. This building was constructed for storage and lacks equipment maintenance facilities. To get the snow cats through narrow doors and into the building, the vehicles are de-tracked and the front blade and grooming attachment must be removed. As a result, routine lube work and most winter maintenance is done on the snow outdoors. This could lead to hazardous material spill in the snow and poor working conditions for employees. 3. Cross Country Ski Equipment Maintenance Two snow cats are assigned to this facility for trail grooming. There is no building facility at this location to provide equipment maintenance or to store the equipment during the summer. These are expensive pieces of machinery that would have a longer usable life if adequately protected. The equipment assigned at this location had a much greater repair history than similar equipment on the ski hill or golf course. This is partially attributed to the equipment being stored in the elements. The upgraded fleet of two snow cats at this facility is only one year old and should be stored and maintained in appropriate facilities to preserve their value. The primary need is covered vehicle storage and an out-of-the-weather location for winter maintenance. 4. Forestry Although not usually thought of as a maintenance operation, the forestry department maintains trails, open space and forests that requires a maintenance base and a significant amount of equipment to perform it’s responsibilities. The Forestry Department provides a very key role in maintaining the natural beauty of Tahoe Donner and managing the forest to protect it and adjacent properties from the dangers of fire, pests and disease. Forestry requires a variety of support equipment, including chain saws, a trail sign shop, tree seedling storage, etc. Maintenance of heavy equipment, such a trucks and bulldozers is provided by Vehicle Maintenance. The Forestry facilities are located in the Northwoods maintenance yard adjacent to the General Maintenance Facilities. The building was originally built for golf maintenance and was taken over by Forestry when the golf maintenance function moved to its current location. The primary building is a log pole structure, which is now over 30 years old and is in serious need of being replaced. The pole beams are splitting, in some cases nearly to the core. Fortunately there is a reserve set aside which will cover at least a portion of a new facility. 2006 Tahoe Donner Association General Plan Update 38 The following requirements were developed in joint planning sessions between Maintenance managers and staff and a task force of the General Plan committee. Table 2.6.1. Space Needs for Forestry Staff and Maintenance Facility Function/Description Sq. Ft. Managers Office Office for Forester, including desk, work table, storage and drawing table) 15' x 15' 225 Customer service/chip tag area Chipping Tickets/Trail Maps/Info Brochures (potentially shared) 10/x15 150 Transient Worker Office Second office for part time staff - 2 transient desks - Work table - File cabinets 15' x 15' 225 Equipment Room Copier, Plotter, Map Review Table, Drawing Storage (potentially shared) 10’x15’ 150 Locker/Break Room Locker room/break room/lunch room, including counter, refrigerator, microwave, etc. (potentially shared) 20' x 20' 400 Rest Rooms & Shower Restrooms and shower for crew (2 restrooms, potentially shared) 15' x 10' +15' x 10' 300 Meeting Room Safety training, meeting room with contractors/members, etc. (potentially shared) 10’x15’ 150 Custodial Room Sink, supplies, etc.(potentially shared) 6’x10’ 60 Estimated Administrative Space 1660 Saw and equipment shop and storage Locked shop space for tool storage, store and repair saws and personal equipment 15' x 20’ 300 Supplies Storage Storage for supplies, hand tools, trail signs, etc. 15' x 15' 225 Sign shop Construction and repair of signs (potentially partially shared) 10' x 12' 120 Hazardous Storage Need space for flammable storage - Paint, oil, gasoline, etc. - Concrete retainer liner to avoid seepage - Fireproofing 10' x 10' 100 Equipment Bays Three Bays, 16’ high - Winter storage - Wood chipper - Tracked Chipper - Wood splitter - Dump trailer - Fire Pumper Summer maintenance, winter storage with 8’ loft over back half of each bay: - Trail post and kiosk storage - Extra equipment storage 3 x 20’x25’ 1500 Tree Cooler Tree cooler for sapling storage - Refrigeration - Provide backup cooling for other Association functions. 12' x 15' 180 2006 Tahoe Donner Association General Plan Update 39 Estimated Total Shop Area 936 Major Equipment Storage Need 7 bays for Forestry equipment (12’ high) Can be “car port” type facility. - Dozer - Dump truck - Dozer trailer - Water truck - Five Trucks - Two loaders 7 x 20'x25' 2000 Storage Covered area for beetle infested wood - 10’ x 20’ 200 Estimated covered storage 2200 Parking Parking and driveway space for 10 vehicles 10x 10’x25’x2 5000 Estimated Open Storage 5000 VEHICLE MAINTENANCE This organization consists of highly skilled mechanics and is responsible for maintenance of all non-golf vehicles and large equipment. Day-to-day upkeep is done by the various departments who use the equipment, including forestry, maintenance (building and grounds), the downhill ski area, and cross country ski area. Vehicle maintenance is called when a larger problem develops. Often the repair and maintenance must be done outside in various kinds of weather. The Vehicle Maintenance building is the facility in the most need of updating. The facility is a small office and maintenance bay carved out of the cart storage barn located just up the hill from the Golf Pro Shop, and suffers from several functional limitations. Each of the work areas is small and inadequate to meet many of the basic needs of the organization. Only recently were indoor restroom facilities installed, at the direction of OSHA. The primary limitation of this facility is the availability of only one maintenance bay to service vehicles in a protected indoors space. The maintenance crew currently maintains approximately 50 vehicles, and it is normal for the crew to be working on 2-4 vehicles at any one time. With one maintenance bay, this requires staff to work on vehicles not protected from the weather and not close to tools and equipment. During winter months, this is particularly unpleasant, inconvenient, and inefficient. It should also be noted that the size of the maintenance bay doors on the vehicle or general maintenance buildings are too small to accept larger equipment such as loaders and groomers, resulting in repair work being performed outside in in-climate weather. It is also not unusual for one vehicle to be disabled waiting for parts. In the current situation, the options are to tow the vehicle outside into the weather, or leave the vehicle in the maintenance bay until parts arrive. Neither option is conducive to an efficient or safe work environment. These conditions suggest a minimum of three maintenance bays to meet the requirements of the organization. If the facility were combined with the other maintenance facilities, this would allow shared bays improving the flexibility at a reduced cost. The new facilities will also enhance worker safety. The following are the estimates of space requirements necessary to meet the functional requirements of the department. 2006 Tahoe Donner Association General Plan Update 40 Table 2.6.2. Space Needs for Vehicle Maintenance Facility Function/Description Sq.Ft. Managers Office Adequate space for a managers office to address administrative and personnel issues 10' x 12' 120 Break Room Adequate restroom/locker/break area/lunch area to provide minimal employee comfort (potentially shared) 12' x 12' 144 Rest Rooms Restrooms (8’ x 10’ + 8’ x 16’ = 208 sq ft) (potentially shared) 8' x 10' + 8'x16' 208 Lockers Storage for personal effects for work crews (potentially shared) 8' x 4' 32 Shower Shower equipped for hazardous treatment (potentially shared) 4' x 6' 24 Administrative Work Space Administrative Assistant (potentially shared) 100 Growth ??? Estimated Administrative Area 608 Maintenance Bays Average equipment being worked on at one time = 2-4 (potentially shared) 3 x 20' x 40' 2400 Ventilation/heating equipment Equipment room (potentially shared) 6’ x 6’ 36 Welding/Fabrication An isolated welding/fabrication area to reduce the risk of injury for staff (potentially shared) 10' x 15' 150 Fire Protection System Need an adequate fire protection system in a flammable work area to reduce danger to staff and to protect assets.(potentially shared) 5' x 5' 25 Haz/Mat Drainage Filtering System Need adequate drainage/filtering system to deal with hazardous material (oil, gas, etc.)(potentially shared) 10' x 12' 120 Sand/Oil separator Equipment necessary to deal with hazardous oil gas spills (potentially shared) 10' x 12' 120 Indoor vehicle wash area For wintertime cleaning (potentially shared) 20' x 40' 800 Growth ??? Estimated Shop Area 3,651 Oil Storage Room Ability to store Hazardous oil potentially shared) 10' x 15' 150 Parts Storage Room Secure parts storage room 20' 20' 400 Tire Storage Need a tire storage area, (potentially in loft over svc bays) 20' x 20' 400 Growth ??? Estimated Covered Storage 950 Parking Need level, paved parking to support current usage (Employee Vehicles = 5, Company Vehicles = 4, expansion = 4, plus turn-around. Total = 13) 13 x 8'*(20' + 20') 4160 Driveways, etc. ??? Estimated Uncovered Storage 4,160 2006 Tahoe Donner Association General Plan Update 41 GENERAL MAINTENANCE This organization is responsible for all general maintenance for Tahoe Donner Building and Grounds. The maintenance facility is still located in the original maintenance yard built in the early 1970’s on Northwoods near Snowpeak. Responsibilities include maintenance of all buildings, grounds, furniture, storage as well as snow removal and sanding, two front loaders, snow blowing equipment, etc. The General Maintenance facility is located in the maintenance yard on Northwoods Blvd. The site is shared with Forestry, and utilizes most of the 5 acre site. This building was constructed over 30 years ago, and has not kept up with the increased demands of the maintenance staff over the years. General Maintenance responsibilities have grown over the years. As part of its responsibility, storage of seasonal furniture and equipment from each of the amenities is kept at the General Maintenance facility. In walking through the storage area during peak storage times, it is dramatic to see the height at which it is necessary to stack items to get the required items into a weather protected environment. This dramatic limitation of space requires additional manpower to store the equipment in a suitable manner. It is estimated that three times the current storage is needed to meet the current and future needs. If the current vehicle maintenance space is vacated, at least a portion of the space could potentially be rehabilitated for general storage, reducing the amount of new space required. The following tables were developed jointly by Tahoe Donner first line managers and selected staff, with assistance by volunteer members of the General Plan Committee. They reflect staff’s best estimates of what is needed to adequately support the operations of the various departments. As suggested earlier, a design consultant should validate these space requirements with experience in maintenance facility design. Efficiencies may be achieved through design innovations. Table 2.6.3. Space Needs for General Maintenance Facility Function/Description Sq. Ft. Administrator Desk, work counter, storage for Department Administrator 8' x 9' 72 Reception Area Counter, waiting area (potentially shared) 6' x 8' 48 Maintenance Manager One desk and workspace 52 sq ft meeting area with two chairs and books shelf’s 68 sq ft 120 Staff workspace Staff for paperwork and writing reports 64 sq ft of work space - 56 sq ft shelving and plan desk (potentially shared) 120 Break room - Cooking facilities 10 x 15 =150, including refrigerator, coffee station, sink - Eating area for employees to have lunch (and dinner for the employees that work swing shift) 8 employee 36 sq ft (potentially shared) 10’ x 15’ 150 Meeting room Training, safety meetings, extra work area for 10 employees (potentially shared) 15’ x 15’ 250 Locker room Both men’s and woman’s – 10’ x 12’ each (potentially shared) 10’x12’x2 240 Bathrooms Men’s & woman, emergency showers as required by law (10x10x2) (potentially shared) 2 x 10’ x 10’ 200 2006 Tahoe Donner Association General Plan Update 42 Copy and supplies room Copier that is 4X4 =16 Table to collate 4X6 =28 Plan rack area 4X8 =32 Working room around everything (potentially shared) 16 28 32 60 140 Custodial room With storage shelves, washer & dryer & deep sink (6' X 10') (potentially shared) 60 Growth ??? Estimated Square Footage for Administrative Section 1400 Parts room and paint booth Paint storage: 10 X 10 – trays and flammable lockers for the paint for each amenity Parts 20: x 20 shelving for electrical, plumbing, painting, concrete work, shelving for each amenity to store items associated to that facility with walk way space around the shelving. 600 Tools and equipment room Compressors, paint sprayers, airless equipment, rot rooter jack hammer, generator, welder, plasma cutter, oxy acetylene torch, pressure washer, sound equipment, electric mixer, carpet shampoo tents for special functions other many misc tools, 350 Work benches Test bench for motors/ electrical etc / part assembly area etc 120 Wood working shop / with dust collection facilities table saw, 10 x 10 =100 140 1376 cutoff saw, 5 x 16 =80 84 drill press, 6 x 6 =36 48 disk/belt sander 6 x 6 =36 48 planer, 6 x 6 =36 48 panel saw 12 x 6 =72 192 material storage area 6 x 16 =96 64 assembly table, 10 x 10 =100 160 4 ft work area around all the equipment 592 sq ft 592 Welding bay Fire protected work area 20' x 20' 400 Equipment bay for large equipment (loaders, sand truck, etc.) One bay for the Sand truck 3200 Two bays for snow removal equipment One bay for maintenance and repair. - 4 bays x 20 X 40 = 3200 sq ft Mechanical room To contain the compressor, HVAC, water heater, transfer switch and main electrical (15' X 15') 300 Mud room Coat hangers, bench, boot rack, etc. 50 Growth ??? Estimated Square Footage for Shop 6396 Personal tool storage Tool storage rooms with locking doors for employee tools and equipment (5'X5' X 6 rooms) 150 2006 Tahoe Donner Association General Plan Update 43 Material storage room Plumbing pipe, welding stock and timbers and posts. (15'x25') 375 Hazmat storage Room Protected room for hazardous material 100 Equipment and furniture storage area (Pool furniture etc.) We have 1200 sq ft of existing storage area and it is stacked to the 15 ft ceiling. The area contains equipment from all the amenities, we need 2 to 3 times the space to store everything - 3000 to 3600 sq ft 1200 x 3 3600 Estimated Total Storage 4225 Covered vehicle storage Car port type coverage for vehicles active during snow months 10’x20’x6 1200 Storage bins Covered storage for extra pavers, snow poles, etc 600 Covered fuel docks Metal roof cover to protect the user and equipment fueling during inclement weather - 30 x 20 600 Covered sand bin Covered area to store 40 tons of sand for snow removal. The sand must remain dry or it will freeze and be unusable (this is also required by Lahonton Water Quality Control Board (LWQCB)) 300 Covered humus bin Covered area to keep the bark and humus dry and contained as per LWQCB 300 Covered area with berm to hold heavy equipment implements As required by LWQCB 1000 Equipment wash area Required by LWQCB 25’x25’ 625 Generator Generator to keep the maintenance building in operation during a power outage, the building power also runs the fuel docking facilities. (22 kva) 10 x 10 area 100 Fuel tanks 2000 gallon unleaded 5000 gln diesel tank under fuel storage area 600 Estimated Square Footage for covered areas 5,325 Parking Parking plus driveway space TBD ??? Estimated Square Footage for uncovered space ??? For purposes of preliminary planning only, a rough estimate of what a new facility might cost is calculated below. Remodeling of existing facilities may (or may not) cost less. (Note: Cost/Sq Ft estimates should be updated prior to publishing this document. Space requirements should be revalidated by the various departments prior to publication as well.) An additional area of potential infrastructure upgrade is the potential second phase of modernization of the Northwoods Clubhouse. While the GPC did not study this, it received considerable analysis and planning 2006 Tahoe Donner Association General Plan Update 44 by staff several years ago. The GPC recommends that this project be studied further to determine which functions require additional facilities, and what potential exists for improved efficiency. It is important that the analysis consider the minimum project to correct current deficiencies without substantial upgrades. 2006 Tahoe Donner Association General Plan Update 45 Table 2.6.4. Summary of Requirements Department Admin. Shop Indoor Storage Outdoor Covered Storage Outdoor Uncovered Storage Forestry 1660 936 2200 5000 Vehicle Maint 528 3651 950 4160 General Maintenance 1400 6396 4225 5325 ??? Totals 3588 10983 5175 7525 9160 Est Cost/sq ft $350 $250 $200 $75 $25 Projected Cost $1.26 M $2.75M $1 M $0.56M $0.23M This projects a total cost somewhere in the area of $5.8 million to meet requirements. These estimates are for planning purposes only and should be verified by a formal requirements and design study. COMBINED FACILITY The GPC recommends a detailed evaluation for combining all maintenance facilities (except Golf and DSL grooming equipment) in one facility. This would provide an improved efficiency in the use of space by combining such common facilities as administrative support staff offices, restroom, locker and break room facilities, hazardous material handling, and other such facilities. Locating the woodworking shop adjacent to the sign making shop could share equipment as dust collectors and general-purpose equipment. Based on the comments from the work sessions, a significant savings in space, or more likely, a significant increase in functionality with no added space or cost would result from co-locating these three facilities. The evaluation should include determining whether the current location of the general maintenance facility has adequate space (acreage) to meet the requirements of a combined facility or whether relocating the entire facility to a new location might be more economical, including site preparation and utility costs. There are several sites suggested by our Forester that might be suitable. The potential efficiencies and economy of construction suggest that a detailed evaluation should be conducted before this new site alternative is eliminated from consideration. The General Plan Committee has not attempted to estimate the space required to meet the requirements of the individual departments in a combined facility. We do believe that there is a significant space savings and improvements in efficiency through a shared facility. Savings might include:  Shared office space and work areas  Shared high cost equipment and facilities, such air compressors, HazMat storage and treatment, fueling facilities, equipment lifts, etc.  Shared specialized work areas, such as paint room, carpenter shop, etc.  Shared maintenance bays,  Efficiencies in construction costs  Shared parking and outdoor storage  Shared landscaping and setbacks  Etc. FINDINGS AND RECOMMENDATIONS Finding No. 1 With the exception of Golf Course Maintenance, the current facilities for the on-going maintenance of Tahoe Donner Association amenities, common areas and service facilities are in serious need of upgrading and/or replacement, particularly vehicle maintenance to meet current as well as long term needs. They have suffered through neglect over the years due to the nature of a support infrastructure in an organization such as ours where the focus is on “toys, not tools”. The Association enjoys a tremendous value in the facilities and environment of the community. It is important that we provide adequate maintenance of these facilities, both for financial, community enjoyment and employee retention reasons. 2006 Tahoe Donner Association General Plan Update 46 Recommendation A The General Plan Committee has presented Tahoe Donner staff and the Tahoe Donner Board preliminary copies of the requirements statement identified in this Planning Element. Staff has been assigned the responsibility to hire a consultant to validate the stated requirement against industry guidelines for space utilization and to perform a preliminary space design to meet the requirements. CURRENTLY IN PROCESS and/or ALREADY COMPLETED Finding No. 2 There are many common functions between the various maintenance organizations (Hazardous material handling, vehicle maintenance bays, administrative space, etc.) that make a shared facility attractive. Recommendation B The potential cost savings and/or improved functionality of a combined facility should be seriously investigated as a solution to the maintenance facility needs. CURRENTLY IN PROCESS and/or ALREADY COMPLETED Finding No. 3 The primary location on Northwoods Blvd which currently houses the General Maintenance and Forestry facilities is limited in space for expansion and is located adjacent to residential homes. The Forestry building as well as portions of the General Maintenance building needs major remodeling and/or demolishing. These limitations suggest serious consideration and evaluation of relocating a combined maintenance facility at a new physical location. However, the strong interest of property owners in open space and nature may make it difficult to find an alternative site that would be acceptable. Recommendation C The study for solutions to the maintenance facilities must serious considers the advantages of finding a new location for a combined maintenance facility. The direct involvement of Bill Houdyschell, Tahoe Donner Association Forester, would greatly facility this evaluation, due to his intimate knowledge of Tahoe Donner property holding. CURRENTLY IN PROCESS and/or ALREADY COMPLETED Finding No. 4 Historically, the Maintenance Facilities have not received the attention they deserved to keep them up to standards of construction, safety and efficiency. Members of the General Plan Committee were surprised, if not appalled to find the inadequate state of the Maintenance facilities. Since these facilities are somewhat “invisible”, Property Owners are not aware of these facilities and what is needed to perform the required duties unless they spend an effort similar to what the GPC has invested over the past year. Many would point fingers, but the fact is that in an association such as ours, any capital expenditure that requires a Property Owner vote is extremely difficult to gain approval when a vote is required. As stated by one of the General Plan Committee members, members relate to “toys”, or the Amenities and Services, but cannot relate to “tools” that are required to support the “toys”. Faced with this difficulty of gaining approval for improvements to “tools” that are essentially visible to the membership, past Management and Boards have given such improvements a lot priority, resulting is needed improvements left wanting. This committee presented a preliminary report of the high level requirements statement produced in this report to the current Management and Board, and to their credit, have issued an RFP for a consulting study to refine and validate the requirements stated in this report. Recommendation D The General Plan Committee recommends that a Sub-Committee or Task Force be assigned by the Board to provide oversight and tracking for the upgrade of the Maintenance Facilities. This committee should consist of those that understand the requirements of the maintenance operation and can provide informed support to the Board to assure the needs of the maintenance operations are met. 2006 Tahoe Donner Association General Plan Update 47 The membership of this group should include members of the General Plan Committee that participated in the requirements work sessions with TD Staff in developing the requirements. These individuals who participated in the majority of the sessions include Michael Fajans, John Stubbs, Jim McCann and past members Mitch Dijon and Doug Sherman. Patti Schifferle who participated in the development of the Maintenance element in the 2000 General Plan is another candidate for the Task Force. Other individuals with skills in maintenance operations could be added to this Task Force as well. This Sub-Committee or Task Force would be responsible for several functions:  Review proposals developed by staff and consultants to provide feedback on the quality and effectiveness of the proposals. This feedback would help the Board avoid a “band-aid” solution as was the case in the past.  Provide feedback and assistance to the Board for review of justification and how to communicate the importance of this project to the Property Owners. This role could be done in conjunction with the Communications Committee and/or with TD Communications staff. _X_ YES ___ NO PRIORITY NUMBER: 1 2006 Tahoe Donner Association General Plan Update 48 2.7 MARINA BACKGROUND Of the Tahoe Donner amenities, the marina is the only one not located within the boundaries of the development. It is located at the east end of Donner Lake adjacent to the Donner Memorial State Park and may be accessed from Donner Pass Road approximately one half mile west of the Donner State Park interchange on 1-80. The site consists of 2.3 acres owned by Tahoe Donner plus an L-shaped parcel (50' x 150') of lake bottom leased from the state – which includes a paved boat ramp. The forty-nine year lease has an expiration date in the year 2023. Included in the aforementioned acreage owned by the association is a paved parking lot that can accommodate 55 vehicles. The site is fenced on three sides (up to the high water mark of the lake) to control access. The marina is provided for owners and guests and is not open to the public. The season lasts for approximately three and a half months between the Memorial Day weekend and early September (post Labor Day). Staffing for full operation consists of twelve people, including the assigned supervisor. During the busy portion of the day, six to ten employees are on site. INFORMATION AND ANALYSIS Facilities The new 2,400 sq. ft marina building was completed in 2003. The new facilities include rental space, food and beverage facilities, and restrooms. The space is adequate for existing use although storage of equipment is an issue. Equipment All of the rental equipment at the Marina is owned by Tahoe Donner. The list includes: • Canoes 4 [2 function] • Sailboats 2 • Windsurfers 3 • 1-Man Kayak 11 • 2-Man Kayak 12 [sit on tops that are being replaced] • Pedal boats 4 [ 2 person] 2 [4 person] • Wetsuits 10 [never rent] Lessons from qualified personnel are available for all those desiring to rent equipment. In addition to the list above, the association also owns a powered Zodiac (boat) for staff use only. A two-tiered fee structure (owners/guests) applies to all rentals. A copy of the 1998 fee schedule is shown below. 2006 Tahoe Donner Association General Plan Update 49 Table 2.7.1. 2006 Marina Fees 1-Man Kayak Property Owners $12.00 Guests $15.00 2-Man Kayak, Canoe, Windsurfer, Pedal boat Property Owner $15.00 Guests $18.00 Laser (Sailboat) Property Owner $30.00 Guests $35.00 Catalina Sailboat Property Owner $30.00 Guests $35.00 Sailing Lessons Individual (1-Hour) $40.00 Each Additional Person $ 5.00 Capacity The capacity of the marina can be measured by the amount of available parking, the size of the sandy beach area, and the amount of rental equipment. At times of heavy usage, the fenced off highway parking places are augmented by parking along the shoulders of Donner Pass Road. Usage Currently, the marina complex operates at near capacity during its early and late seasons and capacity is exceeded during July and August. According to the usage statistics, 25,300-28,500 individuals visited the marina from May through September each summer. Looking at weekend usage, the average is 400 visitors per weekend day. It has been estimated that 15-20 percent of the users are repeaters (regulars). Also, the statistics include all family members and guests, regardless of age. Table 2.7.2. Marina Usage Statistics: 2001-2005 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 Property Owner Recreation Fee Entry 2,793 2,777 2,127 3,895 3,477 Property Owner Paid Entry 15,609 17,629 15,815 14,075 15,013 Guests 6,427 7,344 7,419 8,949 7,602 Employee 535 719 424 455 403 TOTAL 25,364 28,469 25,785 27,374 26,495 2006 Tahoe Donner Association General Plan Update 50 REVENUE AND TOTAL COST The elements of income flow at the marina are: • Food and Beverage sales • Equipment rentals The following chart shows the direct marina revenue and cost for the years 2001 through 2005 compared to total cost for the same years. Table 2.7.3. Marina Financial Results: 2001-2005 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 Revenue $161,467 $190,233 $208,652 $237,379 $199,451 Operating Expenses $150,733 $145,382 $182,248 $178,411 $187,510 Net Operating Results $10,734 $44,851 $26,404 $58,968 $11,941 Allocated Overhead $17,661 $19,518 $25,026 $43,911 $42,717 Net Results with Overhead -$6,927 $25,333 $1,378 $15,057 -$30,776 Cost Recovery Ratio 96% 115% 101% 107% 87% Capital Expenses / Funding NA $84,648 $48,206 $51,237 $40,746 Net Results with Overhead and Capital Expenses -$59,315 -$46,828 -$36,180 -$71,522 Property Owner Yearly Assessment / Contribution $9.13 $7.20 $5.57 $11.00 **Cost of sales are included in operating costs SUMMARY OF FEATURES AND OPERATIONS 1. Food and Beverage: The new building provides a kitchen facility with all new appliances. The facility provides for food and beverage service to members and guests. 2. Rental: The new building has additional space for rental operations, which allow for rental equipment storage and distribution. 3. The Beach is approximately 52,000 sq. ft., with floating docks provided for boats, fishing, and a swimming platform. 4. Boat ramp: a paved ramp with access and turnaround are utilized by members for launching trailered boats. 5. Restrooms: New men's and women's restrooms have been incorporated into the facility that meets all ADA standards. 6. Guest Grill: A guest grill barbecue has been installed with this facility. 7. Landscaping: The area surrounding the building and marina are landscaped with native flowers, shrubs, and trees. 8. Equipment Storage Building: In the past, administrative records were stored here. With the recent changes, it was anticipated this building would be utilized for various equipment storage pertaining to the marina amenity. It is located at the east corner of the parking lot. Instead it is used to house and stage day camp activities. Consideration of a more suitable site for the day camps should be considered. 2006 Tahoe Donner Association General Plan Update 51 FINDINGS AND RECOMMENDATIONS Finding No. 1 There is a need for increased parking during peak periods and especially boat trailer parking.. Recommendation A This need could possibly be reviewed and negotiated with State Park officials. A second alternative to the parking problem would be to petition the Town of Truckee to allow Tahoe Donner Association to pave and stripe the shoulder of Donner Pass Road contiguous to the marina fence line. This alternative would provide additional parking for our members though marina staff could not regulate it. Another alternative would be to contact State park officials and assist in securing a satellite parking option with a shuttle service. Throughout Donner Lake, there is a need for additional boat trailer parking. Working with the State of California and the Town of Truckee, a site that would be suitable for satellite parking could possibly be identified. _X_ YES ___ NO PRIORITY NUMBER: 1 Finding No. 2 There is considerable parking and merging congestion at peak times along Donner Pass Road. Recommendation B To reduce parking and merging congestion, a turn lane should be added to alleviate traffic back ups on Donner Pass Road. ___ YES _X_ NO Finding No. 3 There is a shortage of storage for rowing shells, kayaks and equipment. Recommendation C The unpaved portion of the parking lot could be paved to provide additional kayak and shell boat storage or other equipment storage. CURRENTLY IN PROCESS and/or ALREADY COMPLETED 2006 Tahoe Donner Association General Plan Update 52 2.8 TENNIS CENTER BACKGROUND The Tennis Center is a four acre complex located adjacent to the Northwoods Clubhouse and extending into a meadow that is part of Bennett Flat. The developer, DART Industries, build nine tennis courts, and two new courts were constructed in the summer of 1991 at a cost of approximately $100,000 per court. The funds were taken from the Tahoe Donner Development Fund which was established for the construction of new amenities. In 1990-91, the original tennis clubhouse (build by DART) was expanded by a new 700 square foot addition which was financed from the Tahoe Donner Reserve fund. At this same time, the restrooms were upgraded to provide access for the handicapped. The clubhouse area also includes 4,700 square feet of decking. Adequate parking is provided by the existing lot that serves the Northwoods Clubhouse. The Tennis Center offers snacks, ice cream, and refrigerated sodas and sport drinks. There are eleven fully equipped tennis courts and one court divided in half by a double sided backboard. Another court has a small backboard on the side. The clubhouse includes a retail area, a multi purpose room, restrooms, lockers and showers. The decking area is adjacent to a barbecue facility used for social events. Since the previous general plan was prepared, no significant changes to the physical center have occurred other than complying with the latest ADA requirements. The Tennis Center has a Tennis Club, which was and is officially chartered by the Tahoe Donner Association, and this club continues to cooperate with the tennis management to promote and schedule competition events and related social activities. A major event at Tahoe Donner Tennis Center is the widely recognized Annual International Wheelchair Tennis Tournament. INFORMATION AND ANALYSIS Depending on the weather, the tennis center is open and available for play from mid-May to early October. Historically, the courts, without any of the other tennis facilities such as bathrooms, have remained available for play much later in the year providing no significant snow has accumulated. For the 2005 season, Robert McClendon has compiled the following usage data: Table 2.8.1. Tennis Center Usage Patterns Season Number Of Entries Days Usage per Day Percent of Maximum Capacity (200) Weekend 3,841 42 91 46% Holidays 443 3 147 74% Weekdays 7,366 75 98 49% Peak Season (July to August) 7,153 62 115 58% Off Season (May, June, September And October) 4,850 86 53 27% SEASON TOTALS 12,003 148 79 41% 2006 Tahoe Donner Association General Plan Update 53 McClendon has also indicated the following regarding usage that is not immediately apparent from the above chart: • On the weekends in the morning between opening time and noon, the Tennis Center is at full capacity, with 68 people on average visiting the courts. During this time, there is a waiting list for people to get on to courts. • During mid-week in the morning between opening time and noon, the Tennis Center is at full capacity as well, with a waiting list for people to get on to courts. • The lowest usage time is mid-day between 12pm and 4pm, any day of the week. • Mid-day is moderately full, and consequently is when the Tennis Center offers its Junior Camps. • The Tennis Center borders a designated wetlands area and any footprint expansion will have to submit to rigorous scrutiny by governing authorities. Table 2.8.2. Tennis Center Fees Fees, Rates and Rentals Members Guests Daily Play with Rec. Fee Free n/a Daily Play without Rec Fee $5 $7 Twilight Play – after 4 p.m. $3 $5 Racket Rental $5 $5 Demo Racket Rental $7 $7 Ball Hopper Rental $5 $5 One Hour Ball Machine Rental $15 $18 Individual Ball Machine Pass for Season $175 n/a Family Ball Machine Pass for Season $250 n/a One Hour Private Lesson $60 $65 Half-hour Private Lesson $35 $40 One Hour Semi-private Lesson $65 $70 Tennis Clinics $18 $20 Cardio Tennis Class $10 $12 2006 Tahoe Donner Association General Plan Update 54 Table 2.8.3. Tennis Center Revenue and Costs FINDINGS AND RECOMMENDATIONS Finding No. 1 During peak play periods players are sometimes unable to obtain a court reservation and play tennis. Recommendation A It is recommended that analysis be given to the creation of one or two more courts, most likely by expanding past the present court used for backboard play, although all areas should be considered. It is further recommended that analysis be given to the creation of one more court by eliminating the double- sided backboard divider presently used solely for backboard play. This recommendation would enhance an existing amenity and could possibly be funded using the proceeds from the recent sale of the “32 acres.” ___ YES _X_ NO Backboard play referenced above is an Operational decision. Finding No. 2 Comments submitted by property owners in response to the last two General Plan surveys and discussed at a General Plan Committee meeting held in Fall 2006 indicate that some members of the Tahoe Donner Association are interested in retrofitting the tennis facility to allow for year round play. Most suggestions would cover three tennis courts. Prior analyses of a tennis bubble have not had wide support nor recommendations to proceed from staff because of high costs and anticipated low utilization. Given that the Tennis Center was left out of the fall 2006 survey, the GPC does not have current data on property owner input for tennis, and specifically on the issue of year round courts. Recommendation B The GPC recommends that data be gathered in winter 2007 to gauge: the level of property owner support, projected cost, development & testing of usage fee structure, and possible opportunities for partnership 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 Revenue $$111100,,551166 $$112200,,552288 $$7799,,778877 $$9977,,555511 $$7700,,003399 Operating Expenses $$115588,,444466 $$116688,,443399 $$117700,,666600 $$114499,,009966 $$9988,,666688 Net Operating Income --$$4477,,993300 --$$4477,,996655 --$$9900,,887766 --$$5511,,554455 --$$2288,,662299 Allocated Overhead $$1188,,558844 $$2222,,662200 $$2233,,443355 $$2288,,775555 $$2222,,444488 Net Results with Overhead --$$6666,,449944 --$$7700,,558855 --$$111144,,330088 --$$8800,,330000 --$$5511,,005577 Cost Recovery Ratio 62% 63% 41% 55% 58% Capital Expenses/Funding $60,299 $65,976 $62,667 $66,609 $60,223 Net Results with Overhead and Capital Expenses -$126,793 -$136,561 -$176,975 -$146,909 -$111,280 P/O Yearly Assessment Contribution $19.51 $21.01 $27.23 $22.60 $17.12 Percent of Property Owners Using Tennis Center (from 2006 Demographic Survey) 33% 2006 Tahoe Donner Association General Plan Update 55 with the high school and perhaps the Town of Truckee. This recommendation would enhance an existing amenity and could possibly be funded using the proceeds from the recent sale of the “32 acres”. ___ YES _X_ NO Finding No. 3 The Tennis Center was not included in the Winter 2005 General Plan Survey. However, several comments were submitted by property owners in the “additional comments” field of that survey. Recommendation C In the future it is recommended that all amenities, including the Tennis Center, be included in all future General Plan Committee surveys. _X_ YES ___ NO PRIORITY NUMBER: 1 2006 Tahoe Donner Association General Plan Update 56 2.9 THE LODGE & FOOD SERVICE BACKGROUND In July 2002, the Tahoe Donner Association membership authorized funding for a new community clubhouse, now referred to as The Lodge. The Tahoe Donner Board of Directors, consulting with staff, Ryan Group Architects and the Design Review Taskforce (consisting of 5 members), designed a facility that included programming for a full-service restaurant, pub, and banquet/catering services. The Lodge opened in September 2005 and the total cost of the project was $5.8M. The purpose of The Lodge is to provide Tahoe Donner members with an ideal meeting and dining establishment within close proximity to home - whether it is to meet friends for a casual drink, a dinner out with the family, an intimate dinner for two or a place to stop by and visit with friends after a round of golf. Additionally, with Tahoe being one of the top 3 wedding destinations in North America, the Lodge hopes to become a popular venue for weddings and other banquet events 1. The Lodge is open 7 days a week throughout the year. The hours of operation vary seasonally. Winter Hours The Pub opens at 4 p.m. for drinks and dinner seating is from 5 p.m. – 9 p.m. Summer Hours Brunch and Lunch available from July 1 through Labor Day Sunday Brunch Menu 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. Lunch 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. Dinner 5 p.m. – 9 p.m. INFORMATION AND ANALYSIS Usage Demographics Although The Lodge is a public amenity, the primary target market is Tahoe Donner property owners who make up nearly 85% of the daily users. (Table 2.9.1) The 2007 Lodge marketing plan has been developed to focus the majority of the marketing efforts towards creating awareness of this amenity to TD members with some attention directed towards Truckee locals and tourists. Table 2.9.1. Lodge Usage by Target Market Target Markets Category % of Daily Business Primary Tahoe Donner Members 85% Secondary Guests 6% Tertiary Locals and Long Term Renters 9% Fourth Tourists Table 2.9.2. Lodge Monthly Capacity Utilization January 43% February 44% March 35% April 29% May 22% June 27% July 47% August 48% 1 Truckee Donner Chamber of Commerce Visitor Profile 2006 Tahoe Donner Association General Plan Update 57 Year-to-date The Lodge usage rate averages 37% of capacity. Again, the increased marketing efforts targeting Tahoe Donner residents, long term renters and locals is aimed at increasing use by all markets The marketing plan consists of: 1) Programming: such as Kid’s Night Out, Monday Night Football, Wine and Cheese Mixers 2) Cross Promotion with other Tahoe Donner Amenities 3) Loyalty Programs 4) Partnerships with local businesses 5) Print and Online media Industry Analysis Reports from The National Restaurant Association (NRSA), Datamonitor and Mintel International Group (MIG) indicate continuous growth for the restaurant industry. Industry sales are forecasted at $511B in 2006 which is a 6.8% increase from $476B in 2005. Americans now spend 46.4% of their food dollar eating away from home, compared to 25% in 19952. This figure is expected to climb to 53% by 2010. From this we can conclude that The Lodge, as well as other Tahoe Donner food service amenities, should expect to see increased demand in the next five years. Table 2.9.3. Revenue 2006 YTD Revenue (Aug 31, ’06) Winter Shoulder Summer Total &TD (Aug 31, 2006) % of Revenue Balcony $ - $ 916 $132,528 $133,444 14% Dining Room $139,883 $150,517 $164,086 $ 454,486 46% Pub $64,351 $82,864 $110,765 $ 257,980 26% Snack Bar $ - $602 $ 26,234 $ 26,836 3% Banquet $1,681 $6,792 $ 96,331 $ 104,804 11% $205,915 $241,691 $ 529,944 $ 977,550 Banquets During this first year of operation the success of booking meeting/banquet events has been limited due to space constraints. The Lodge can accommodate parties of up to 300 outdoors during the summer months, but is limited to parties of 50 during all other seasons. Additionally, Tahoe Donner has a policy that the dining room may not be closed for private functions and this has contributed to the poor performance of meeting/banquets revenue. In the past 12 months only 45 events were held and 30 of them were in the summer and 15 in December. Competition Direct, local competition to the Lodge consists of Moody’s, Cottonwood, Pianeta, and West End Bistro. Because many tourists are willing to drive 20 minutes to eat at the lake, Garwoods, Christy Hill and Sunnyside are considered competition as well. The Lodge has shown considerable awareness in understanding their competitors and ensuring the menu, price point and ambiance are competitive. FINDINGS AND RECOMMENDATIONS Overall, The Lodge is an excellent amenity and will continue to meet the needs of the membership for the foreseeable future. Although there certainly are small areas for improvement, the General Plan Committee does not believe that the general membership would react favorably at this time to additional investment in the Lodge for at least five years. In the five to ten year time span we do suggest considering the following recommendations: 2 Mitel International Group, LTD (MIG) Attitudes Toward Dining Out U.S. © 2006 2006 Tahoe Donner Association General Plan Update 58 Table 2.9.4. Comparative Truckee Menu Pricing Menu Item The Lodge Moody’s Cottonwood West End Bistro Pianeta Average Caesar Salad $9 $8 $10.95 $8 $8.7 $8.94 New York (12oz) /Rib eye $31 $38 $27.95 $32 $28 $31.39 Pasta $16-18 $22 $18.95 $20 $13.5- 17.5 Corkage $15 $20 $15 Finding No 1 The current meeting/banquet space does not allow for large parties and limits the potential of The Lodge to derive banquet revenue. Recommendation A Expand meeting/banquet space to allow for parties of 150-200 or more year round. This would enable the Lodge to increase meeting/banquet revenue as capacity has been the limiting factor. _X_ YES ___ NO PRIORITY NUMBER: 2 Finding No. 2 The small size of the deck limits property owner’s ability to sit out side when ordering from the bar. Property owners find it frustrating that they are not able to enjoy outdoor seating unless they are eating in the main restaurant. Recommendation B Expand the deck. This would allow for: additional outdoor seating which is coveted during the summer months. As an interim measure, make outdoor seating available for pub patrons instead of having to limit it exclusively to diners, and consider space for live entertainment. Alternatively, outdoor bar seating could be provided on the lower patio during summer months. _X_ YES ___ NO PRIORITY NUMBER: 3 Finding No. 3 Some property owners have complained that the Lodge prices and menu are not “family friendly” and that the price level diminishes their usage. Recommendation C If financial performance does not improve, the Association should consider adding lower priced entrees. ___ YES _X_ NO Operational item FOOD AND BEVERAGE SERVICE BACKGROUND The Tahoe Donner Association offers Food and Beverage service at four different locations in addition to The Lodge. Menus vary based upon location, time of year, and activities available. Each location is managed separately. This includes organizing separate food and beverage orders for each location. However, all Purchasing is centralized. INFORMATION AND ANALYSIS 1. Beach Club Marina The Beach Club is equipped with a snack bar. Breakfast, Lunch and dinner are served from 10:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. daily. Menu items include general breakfast items, hamburgers, veggie burgers, 2006 Tahoe Donner Association General Plan Update 59 hot dogs, grilled chicken, peanut butter and jelly sandwiches, French fries, nachos, ice cream, drinks, and much more. Beer and wine are not sold at the Beach Club Marina. 2006 Tahoe Donner Association General Plan Update 60 Table 2.9.5. Marina Food Summer 2006 Marina '06 $ % of Revenue Revenue Food 63,440 Beverage 415 Subtotal 63,855 Discounts 1,375 Total 62,480 Cost Food 25,514 40% of food Beverage - 0% of beverage Total 25,514 41% of total Gross Profit Food 37,926 60% of food Beverage 415 100% of beverage Discounts -1,375 -2% of total Subtotal 36,966 59% of total Spoilage 1,487 2% of total Net 35,479 57% of total 2. Clubhouse Bar & Grill The Clubhouse Bar & Grill was re-opened during the summer of 2006 after being closed for more than a year. A lunch and dinner format was offered. The menu was comprised of easily prepared items of bar/cafe’ style, e.g., pizza, salads, sandwiches, etc. The format for 2007 has yet to be confirmed as staff looks for the right ingredients to make this operation a self supporting one. Table 2.9.6. Clubhouse Food Summer 2006 Clubhouse Bar & Grill '06 $ % of Revenue Revenue Food 33,241 82% Of subtotal Beverage 7,521 18% Of subtotal Subtotal 40,762 Discounts 1,786 Total 38,976 Cost Food 10,434 31% of food Beverage 3,311 44% of beverage Total 13,745 35% of total 2006 Tahoe Donner Association General Plan Update 61 Gross Profit Food 22,807 69% of food Beverage 4,210 56% of beverage Discounts -1,786 -5% of total Subtotal 25,231 65% of total Spoilage 2,514 6% of total Net 22,717 58% of total 3. Downhill Ski Area The Downhill Ski Area generally opens mid-December conditions permitting. Food is served daily. Menu items include Hamburgers, Chicken burgers, chili, French Fries, Yogurt, Salads, drinks, and much more. A full bar is available. Outdoor barbecues are held often, especially during holiday periods. Table 2.9.7. Downhill Area Food Winter 2005/2006 Downhill Ski '05-'06 $ % of Revenue Revenue Food 177,470 84% Of subtotal Beverage 33,412 16% Of subtotal; Subtotal 210,882 Discounts 10,138 Total 200,744 Cost Food 51,983 29% of food Beverage 12,614 38% of beverage Total 64,597 32% of total Gross Profit Food 125,487 71% of food Beverage 20,798 62% of beverage Discounts -10,138 -5% of total Subtotal 136,147 68% of total Spoilage 506 0% of total Net 135,641 68% of total 4. Cross Country Ski Area The Day Lodge includes a gas stove, views, and great home cooked food creating the unique atmosphere of the Tahoe Donner Lodge. The lodge is also home to the Alder Creek Café. Menu items include fresh homemade cooking, an eclectic menu and many vegetarian meals. It is open for lunch and offers a- wide array of snacks and baked goods. A great range of microbrews and California wines are also available. 2006 Tahoe Donner Association General Plan Update 62 The Euer Valley Cookhouse is located a 3 1/2-kilometer ski from the Day Lodge It is a simple warming hut during the week. On weekends and holidays you can purchase many of the baked goods, soups and sandwiches that are offered at the Alder Creek Cafe. Table 2.9.8. Cross Country Food Winter 2005/2006 Cross Country '05-'06 $ % of Revenue Revenue Food 34,674 95% Beverage 1,832 5% Subtotal 36,506 Discounts 1,090 Total 35,416 Cost Food 14,478 42% of food Beverage 891 49% of beverage Total 15,369 43% of total Gross Profit Food 20,196 58% of food Beverage 941 51% of beverage Discounts -1,090 -3% of total Subtotal 20,047 57% of total Spoilage 988 3% of total Net 19,059 54% of total Table 2.9.9. Total 2006 YTD Food and Beverage Beach Club Marina, Clubhouse Bar & Grill, Downhill Ski & Cross Country Ski areas Total $ % of Revenue Revenue Food 308,825 88% Of subtotal Beverage 43,180 12% Of subtotal Subtotal 352,005 Discounts 14,389 Total 337,616 Cost Food 102,409 33% of food Beverage 16,816 39% of beverage Total 119,225 35% of total 2006 Tahoe Donner Association General Plan Update 63 Gross Profit Food 206,416 67% of food Beverage 26,364 61% of beverage Discounts -14,389 -4% of total Subtotal 218,391 65% of total Spoilage 5,495 2% of total Net 212,896 63% of total Note 1: Due to discounts offered to members and Happy Hour Pricing at the Lodge, the cost of beverage is higher than the preferred range of 28-31%. Additional beverage revenue may be interspersed within food revenue. Note 2: The Beach Club Marina and Cross Country have Retail. For the tables above, it was assumed all employee discounts and spoilage were for food and beverage. It was also assumed that no other revenue or special events were food and beverage, except for the Clubhouse. Survey In the a Survey conducted in Winter 2006 a few home owners wrote in the additional comments box that they would like to have access to a Coffee and pastry stand somewhere in Tahoe Donner. Specifically, they would like to be able to quickly drop in and a pick up a pasty and coffee and be on their way. Whether our residents and guests are headed to the ski hill, or staying close to home, this would allow them to grab something quick without having to leave the Tahoe Donner area. FINDINGS AND RECOMMENDATIONS The Food & Beverage Service at these four amenities presently continues to meet the needs of the membership for the foreseeable future. Finding No. 1 53% of TC users who have responded to the 2006 TC survey indicate wanting additional food service. Recommendation A Look for ways to offer expanded food service during peak times so that Tahoe Donner can capitalize on the revenue opportunity while meeting the property owner’s desire for on-site meal service. There may be an opportunity to partner with the Lodge to provide lunch boxes or to offer weekend BBQs in the park adjacent to the pool during the peak times. Research the possibility of incorporating a Coffee/Smoothie station to the old Host Station area at the Trout Creek Recreation center (or an alternate location) to determine the costs. _X_ YES ___ NO PRIORITY NUMBER: 1 Ongoing 2006 Tahoe Donner Association General Plan Update 64 2.10 LAND USE, OPEN SPACE, AND TRAIL SYSTEM BACKGROUND The Tahoe Donner development consists of 6,955 acres with roughly 4,000 acres designated as separate interest property and common area and 2,200+ acres as other association real property. Separate interest real property consists of: 1) Residential area zoned R1-PD (24500), meaning maximum housing density of one dwelling per 24,500 square feet (0.52 acre). This property is subdivided into 11 units with 6,000 total lots (residential, multi-unit and commercial). As of February 28, 2006, 925 of the total lots remain to reach build -out and it is anticipated that by the end of 2006 there will only be 890 lots un-built. 2) Several area zoned R2 ( multiple dwelling units or condominiums). Our current C&R s define the specific R2 lot numbers and number of dwelling units allowed in each specific lot. 3) Several areas zoned C1-D, denoting neighborhood commercial facilities defined as a facility to serve the local neighborhood and to not induce traffic from outside the area. The D designation means the Town of Truckee will review design to insure compatibility with the Planned Community neighborhood. These separate interest properties are within Town of Truckee limits and are designated by Town of Truckee as PC ( Planned Community) - a master planned community that must comply with Town of Truckee building ordinances. The Tahoe Donner C&Rs provide specific minimum construction standards and use restrictions for R1, R2, and C1-D properties The Tahoe Donner Architectural Standards Committee is responsible for enforcement of the Architectural Rules. All of the aesthetic aspects of an improvement project proposed for a commercial property are subject to the review and approval of the Architectural Standards Committee, just as they are with R1 and R2 properties There are 16 commercial properties: within Unit 2, lot 4 (the Keller Williams Boice Real Estate offices at the intersection of Northwoods and Northwoods), lots 23 through 28 (six parcels within the Zurich loop— only one is developed (lot 27)—the Pacific Crest office building), and lots 424 through 427 (the four original lots that make up the “Town Center” area—the Ames Deli, etc.); within Unit 3, lots 28 and 79 (the downhill ski parking areas on either side of Slalom at Snowpeak), and lot 29 (northeast corner of Snowpeak and Skislope—undeveloped) and lots 65 and 66 (adjoining lots at the southeast corner of Snowpeak and Skislope—undeveloped). In addition to (1) separate interest properties, there are two other categories of ownership in Tahoe Donner. These are (2) Common Area, and (3) Other Association Real Property (aka OARP). ( See Exhibit 1- Schematic Map.) Common Areas include all real property parcels solely owned by Tahoe Donner Association (the corporate entity) for the common use and shared right of enjoyment by association members and are envisioned to be of benefit to members in perpetuity. While the residential property owners do not share an interest in the title to these properties, each does have a “nonexclusive right and easement of enjoyment in and to all Common Areas” subject to the Association’s right to reasonably regulate use. Roughly 1,300 acres within the 4,000 acres is Common Area. This entire Common Area is designated by Town of Truckee zoning as Recreation ( REC). Common Area includes the designated greenbelt area denoted in each Tahoe Donner unit map between property owners separate interest property. Maintenance, including dead, dying, and diseased tree removal, is the responsibility of the Forestry Department. At present a composite detailed map of all green belt Common Area does not exist. Other Common Area includes: the golf course, tennis center, cross country / equestrian facility, Northwoods clubhouse and surrounds, Northwoods pool, the Lodge on Northwoods, downhill ski area, marina, campground, and the portion of the trail system not included within the 2000+ acres. The 15 acre Trout Creek recreation area 2006 Tahoe Donner Association General Plan Update 65 and golf driving range were initially within a designated condominium area and these 15 acres have now been transferred and declared to be a part of the Common Area. A share of the taxable value of the Common Areas property is included in the taxable value of each residential property, and the individual property owner pays a share of the property tax on the Common Areas along with the property tax for their own residential property. Common area land may never be sold. The TDA has the right to “dedicate or transfer Common Area to any public agency, authority or utility for such purposes and subject to such conditions as may be agreed by the Owners (members); provided, however, that no such dedication or transfer shall be effective unless” approved by at least two-thirds of the members and their first mortgagees. This tends to imply that the only instance when a transfer of Common Area is permitted is when it is being transferred to some public entity and the stated member-approval requirements are met. The Board has the authority to improve Common Area. The restrictions on this authority involve the limits on the amount of assessment increases it may impose upon the members without a member vote (getting the money to pay for them) and the limits on the amount it can spend on such improvements without a member vote (the amount it can spend on them). Without member approval, the Board can increase the annual assessment by no more than 20% in any given year and it can impose a special assessment of no more than 5% of the annual budget. (Which would currently be approximately $500,000.) In terms of spending on improvements, if the cost exceeds 5% of the annual budget, member approval is required for the expenditure unless the funds being spent have been accumulated over time and the members have been advised of the accumulation for this specific purpose (such as with our Reserve Fund and Development Fund). If member approval is required under the above scenarios, and it was not a situation where the “exception” applies, the Board could not move forward without member approval. The Board may conduct a “non-binding” membership vote on anything it deems appropriate. The Board does have sole authority to sell the 2,000 Acres; however, as a Board policy, the Board has stated its intention to not do so without educating the members about the sale proposal and conducting a “non-binding” advisory vote. Other Association Real Property means real property owned by TDA and not identified as Common Area, but like Common Area, OARP is solely owned by the corporate entity of TDA. However, whereas property owners enjoy an explicit easement of enjoyment and use over the Common Areas, no such right is expressed with regard to Other Association Real Property. It is the case that in managing all assets of the Association, the Board is obligated to only act in the best interests of all property owners—including the acquisition or disposal of Other Association Real Property. An example of Other Association Real Property that was recently disposed by the Board is the 32 acres to the west of Northwoods at the entrance to Tahoe Donner and abutting the power-line property. Proceeds of this sale were restricted such that the proceeds can only be used for the expansion or enhancement of existing Tahoe Donner recreation amenities to benefit all property owners, or the addition of new recreation amenities (proceeds cannot be used for operation, maintenance, repair or rehabilitation of amenities). Other Association Real Property currently includes the “2000 acres” which also encompasses the cross- country ski trail system, the equestrian trail system, and an extensive portion of the hiking trail system. (See Exhibit 2- Map of the Tahoe Donner hiking trail system). The Cross Country / Equestrian facility is located on Common Area, not OARP. The 2000 + acres is in Nevada County and outside the Town of Truckee limits and therefore Nevada County has zoning responsibility. This zoning designates 160 acres as RA-2-PD ( residential agricultural providing for one family dwelling with a 2 acre land requirement. ) In addition, 300+ acres are designated as REC and the remainder as Forest (FR). The entire 2000+ acres is designated as Interim Development Reserve(IDR) by Nevada County. IDR zoned property requires comprehensive master planning for the entire IDR area before development or new use and may require an accompanying Environmental Impact Report. 2006 Tahoe Donner Association General Plan Update 66 Other Association Real Property also includes the 200 acres of the Euer Valley purchased from John Euer (See Exhibit 3 for a map of property adjacent to Tahoe Donner, including the Euer holdings.) Of the original 3000+ acres owned by the Euer family, approximately 570 acres remain as a sale possibility, with TDA having first right of refusal. TDA has a land use agreement with John Euer for cross country ski and limited equestrian use of these 570 acres which will expire after the 2016-2017 cross country ski season. However if Euer no longer owns any of the affected land, he may opt to terminate the agreement with TDA as early as the end of the 2011-2012 ski season. Other Association Real Property also includes the Records Storage structure adjacent to the General Maintenance and Forestry facilities on the 5 acre site on Northwoods past Snow Peak. The 10+ acre parcel located within Oslo Circle has been donated by the owner, Philip Morris Company, to the Truckee Donner Land Trust. TDA, though, retains some right of restriction as to use of that property. Adjoining land to the Tahoe Donner property, in addition to the remaining 570 acres of Euer land, includes 7 C s holdings to the immediate west of Tahoe Donner near Negro Canyon, 663 acres of land owned by Sierra Pacific, 80 acres of Forest Service land across Euer Valley, 2 or 3 smaller parcels of Forest Service land adjoining TDA, and a parcel of Forest Service land to the south of TDA- which might have potential as a space for future maintenance facilities and structures (see map attached as Exhibit 4). TRAILS A formalized trail system for Tahoe Donner has been developed since 1990 as recommended in “Tahoe Donner- Recreation and Open Space Master Plan” by Royston, Hanamoto, Alley, & Abey, dated June 24, 1989. The trail system includes hiking, cross country ski, downhill ski, and equestrian trails. Bike trails are primarily on town roads, but mountain bikers are increasingly using the trail system hiking trails and fire roads. A major outcome of the 2006 GPC property owners’ survey was a majority participant desire to maintain and enhance the extensive trail system now existing. In the 2006 Demographic Survey reported in Section 1.2, 1,585 responses specified Tahoe/mountain life style and 1,344 specified proximity to outdoor recreational opportunities ( out of 2500 respondents) as a primary reason for owning in Tahoe Donner. This is a clear indication that property owners are in strong support of the current open space and trail system in Tahoe Donner. Bill Houdyschell is to be commended on the terrific job he and his staff (and TDA property owner volunteers) have done on maintaining and designating access to the trail system (See Exhibit 2). INFORMATION AND ANALYSIS Land Acquisition within Existing Tahoe Donner Property Neighborhood Park Construction The GPC 2006 survey asked specifically for opinion on construction of either one large or several small neighborhood parks. The resulting property owners’ response was significantly negative. It is, therefore, not deemed as desirable to seek land for construction of parks or of modification of trails from their present use. Construction of other New Amenities As for neighborhood parks, the majority opinion of the property owners on the 2006 GPC survey was opposed to construction of new amenities. Land Zoning within Tahoe Donner The Town of Truckee has zoning responsibility of the 4000 acres and Nevada County has responsibility for the 2200+ acres. The current zoning of the 4000 acres as PC (Planned Community) and with the Commons Area designated as REC (Recreation) seems to present no problem for Tahoe Donner at this time. Likewise, the Nevada County zoning of the 2000 + acres and the designation of that as IDR (Interim Development Reserve) seems to be acceptable at the present time, even though this is restrictive to new development of this property. It needs to be clarified as to what the County zoning designations are for the recent 200 acre Euer Valley acquisition. 2006 Tahoe Donner Association General Plan Update 67 Acquisition of New Land The most obvious desirable opportunity for purchase of additional land is the remaining 570 acres of Euer Valley (See map attached as exhibit 4). This would be beneficial to Tahoe Donner because it contains a significant amount of our world class cross- country ski trail system. As reported previously, we currently hold a long- term access license until 2017 for cross country access. Tahoe Donner ownership would prevent having to maintain this license and also insure the retention of that land as open space. Therefore, the expense versus benefit ratio of acquiring title to this land should be carefully reviewed and property owners should be apprised of both the positive aspects and their potential assessment expense. The other land referred to in section 3.1.2 ( 7 Cs, Sierra Pacific, US Forest Service parcels) also need to be carefully evaluated, but it appears that the difficult terrain and topography of much of this land detracts from it benefit to TDA. The potential for construction of a new maintenance facility on some of the Forest Service land should be ascertained. Recommendation B of the 1999 General Plan for Section 3 was that TDA seek to acquire the commercial property on the northeast side of Snowpeak at Skislope Way ( north of the existing 3 tiers of the downhill parking area) . It needs to be explored as to whether this option is still a possibility and financially prudent. Trails Our 25 miles of multiuse trails are viewed by the property owners as a major asset to Tahoe Donner and should be considered as one of our most important amenities. The maintenance and enhancement of the trail system is taken on by the Forestry Department. The Board and Staff should insure each year that the operating budget contains sufficient funds for labor and materials to continue preservation, maintenance, and enhancement of the trail system within both the 4,000 and the 2,200 acres. The expense and environmental impact of construction of a boardwalk and/or bridge across the south fork of Prosser Creek in the Euer Valley floor containing the Prosser Creek wetlands should be carefully considered. Obtaining the numerous California agency approvals for development within this pristine alpine wetlands and the potential expense appear to be prohibitive for this type of expansion of the existing trail system. Cost per Property Owner of Open Space and Trails An exact dollar amount per property owner is difficult to estimate. Also determining the extent of property owners’ and guest use is not possible, since no record is obtained by card swipe for summer hiking. A sum of the maintenance costs for the hiking trail system plus the property tax for the Other Association Real Property paid from the Association annual property owners’ assessments could be used to give a rough estimate. FINDINGS AND RECOMMENDATIONS Finding No. 1 Section 3.1.2, Background, of this revision describes the various categories of separate interest real property, common area, and other association real property that are the Tahoe Donner property. This section also gives a general overview of what Tahoe Donner C&Rs, Town of Truckee, and County of Nevada standards and use restrictions, zoning regulations, and membership advisory ballot measure decisions are applicable to land use decisions by the Tahoe Donner Board. Many of the Tahoe Donner Association operational procedures (C&Rs, Bylaws) have significant impact on any future land use and development. Recommendation A The above are important and complex sets of governing issues, many of which involve processes of policy decisions which overlap with Section 3.1 and other areas of this General Plan. It is recommended that the Tahoe Donner Board establish a General Policy Review Committee to periodically review and revise TDA operational procedures with the intent to insure that the aesthetic nature and natural mountain atmosphere of Tahoe Donner, as repeatedly requested by the Property Owners in the 2006 GPC Survey, be maintained. 2006 Tahoe Donner Association General Plan Update 68 It is further recommended that part of the charge to the General Policy Review Committee should be to clarify the purpose of Membership Surveys and provide guidelines that address informing the TDA membership of the outcome of such surveys and publication of justification of Board action in response to such surveys. In addition, procedures for assuring maintenance of open lines of communication with Town of Truckee, Nevada County, Placer County, Truckee Donner Public Utilities District, Lahotan Water District, Army Corps of Engineers, and the US Forest Services policies concerning decisions that would affect the Tahoe Donner community should be outlined as part of this General Policies Section. _X_ YES ___ NO PRIORITY NUMBER: 1 To be completed by GPC moving forward Finding No. 2 The present County of Nevada zoning of the 2,000+ acres (Other Association Real Property designation) lists that property as Interim Development Reserve (IDR) which places restrictions on introduction of new land use or land swap within the 2,000 + acres. Specifically, if any portion of the 2,000 acres were to be developed, the IDR zoning requires that, in addition to creating a plan for the portion to be developed, there must be submitted a development plan for the entire 2,000 + acres, which could be cost prohibitive. Information supplied by TDA legal Counsel indicates that, at present, the authority of the TDA for acquisition or disposal of the OARP is defined in the C&Rs, wherein it is stated the Board has sole discretion regarding the ‘use, enjoyment, and development” of OARP. “Selling” is not specifically mentioned. Further, the TDA members may vote to designate any or all of OARP as Common Area. Common Area is clearly prohibited from ever being sold. The current provision for designating OARP as Common Area is that a membership vote quorum would be 50% of the entire TDA membership with a majority of that quorum voting to convert OARP to Common Area. A vote to amend the sole discretion of the Board regarding use, enjoyment, and development of OARP would require changing the C&Rs and this would require a “yes” vote from greater than 50% of the entire TDA membership. The TDA Bylaws, not the C&Rs, grant the Board the authority to manage and sell generic “property” of the Association – with the exception that designated Common Area may never be sold. The Bylaws may be amended by a membership vote. An amendment to the Bylaws requires a “yes” vote from a simple majority of a quorum comprising 25% of the membership. Membership reaction to the recent sale of “the 32 acres” OARP strongly indicates that property owners want more membership involvement in the sale or acquisition of OARP. Recommendation B It is recommended that an amendment to the Bylaws be submitted to a membership vote that states “Any sale or disposal of OARP property would require a simple majority approval of a base quorum of 50% of the TDA membership.” Approval of this amendment to the TDA Bylaws would require a membership quorum vote of 25% of the TDA membership with a simple majority “yes” vote from this quorum being required for approval. _X_ YES ___ NO PRIORITY NUMBER: 2 Finding No. 3 There exists adjoining land to the current TDA property that may become available for purchase in the future. Of particular interest is the remaining 570 acres of the Euer Valley, several small parcels currently held by the USFS, and the two 80 acre plots of PUD land adjacent at the southwest boundary of Tahoe Donner. (see map attached as Exhibit 4). Recommendation C (1) That a process and structure be immediately established and approved by the Board for identifying all possible property whose sale might be of benefit to TDA. CURRENTLY IN PROCESS and/or ALREADY COMPLETED (2) That any proposal for acquisition of new property include detailed discussions of potential cost/ benefit analyses to the TDA membership and demonstrate the useful purposes of the property to 2006 Tahoe Donner Association General Plan Update 69 the TDA membership _X_ YES ___ NO PRIORITY NUMBER: 1 (3) That the Board review and consider initiating a fund or reserve program with the goal being to build up cash for future purchases of identified beneficial lands. Such a fund should contain a sunset clause providing for payback plus accrued interest to funds obtained from TDA membership. ___ YES _X_ NO Finding No. 4 The existing multi-use trail system is identified as one of the major assets of TDA. Recommendation D That the Board and Staff include in the operating budget each year sufficient funds to engage both permanent and temporary staff and labor, and materials, to preserve, maintain, and enhance our trail system. In addition, create an “Open Space and Trails Committee” led by the Forestry Department and composed of a Board liaison and volunteer interested property owners, the purpose of which would be to develop ideas for trail improvement, signage, trail expansion, and trail management and to provide these as recommendation to the Forestry Department and General Management. If the Forestry Department believes it advisable to have additional staff involved in trail maintenance and believes that a Trails Department, reporting to Forestry, would be beneficial, then it is recommended that such a Department be established with positions with defined duties and a budget line to maintain existing hiking trails, including erosion control, and to work with the Equestrian amenity on the trails in joint use. _X_ YES ___ NO PRIORITY NUMBER: 1 Parts of this recommendation are CURRENTLY IN PROCESS and/or ALREADY COMPLETED Finding No. 5 As stated in the 1999 General Plan (see Trails at end of the1999 Background section) and re-iterated in the 2006 GPC membership survey, TDA needs to create more trail head parking areas at existing roadside accessible trail heads which are closer to more property owners and which afford an opportunity for more varied hiking. Recommendation E Create paved parking for trail access which would not block snowplow access in areas recommended by Houdyschell as possible sites, all of which have potential for multiple uses in multiple seasons. These INCLUDE BUT ARE NOT LIMITED TO the following (See map attached as Exhibit 5): 1. Trailhead 39, located on Skislope approximately 20 yards below the cross-country pass through to the downhill ski area. This area affords an opportunity to create parking for 20 to 30 vehicles without intruding on any property owner sightlines. It also would access many of the already developed Forestry Department trails and additionally is on the border of a variety of cross- country trails many of our hikers already walk on. Bill Houdyschell has indicated he could readily formalize another half-dozen trails near to this proposed area. Other uses of this trail head parking include a variety of enhancements to other existing amenities. Of special interest is that the parking spaces could be used in winter as a cross-country season pass holder parking lot by including a swipe machine at the parking lot. Also in winter, the back country skiers and boarders could access the area without having to park on the street (which is already done at this very location). 2. Trailhead 30, located on Skislope near Christy Lane. Bill Houdyschell has identified a place at this location for 4 to 6 vehicles to be parked off the road by creating a small parking pad. This is an area used for hiking and backcountry skiing already, with property owners presently parking on the street. 3. Trailhead 12A, located at the end of Alder Creek Road. This area also is already used for both hiking and backcountry skiing. Bill Houdyschell also feels it could be modestly developed into a larger parking area and could be another option for overflow cross country skiing, possibly with the inclusion of a swipe machine in winter. 2006 Tahoe Donner Association General Plan Update 70 4. Trailhead 4, located just below Trout Creek and at the top of the established nature loop. This nature loop is already well used, but there is a need for more parking to access it. Bill Houdyschell is already working on signage along the loop which will be of interest to families with children and people desiring a modest walk. He feels if there was appropriate parking, it would be enjoyed by more. Furthermore, if there were parking, the nature loop in winter would be used for backcountry skiing, primarily for beginners. 5. The top of the downhill ski area is an already cleared large space, with access from Skislope via an already established road. This area could be paved and turned into a parking area with multiple uses. Hikers enjoy walking the one mile ski run but presently can only do so by parking near the ski hill condominiums, there is a need for overflow parking for the downhill ski area and skiers could literally ski down from this proposed area to the lifts. _X_ YES ___ NO PRIORITY NUMBER: 1 Finding No. 6 An irreplaceable data base of maps and land use documents is kept in the Forestry Department, much of it as computer files which are not regularly backed up due to time constraints. The loss of this data base would be tragic. The Forestry Department does not have sufficient resource to routinely do this backup. Recommendation F Immediately assign a computer knowledgeable employee to work with the Forestry Department to make regular backups of their computer files and to transfer copies to CD s that can be stored in a fire-proof location. CURRENTLY IN PROCESS and/or ALREADY COMPLETED 2006 Tahoe Donner Association General Plan Update 71 2.11 TRANSPORTATION PURPOSE The purpose of the Transportation Element is two fold: first to review the history of the road system in Tahoe Donner as it relates to our current status, to review transportation services to Tahoe Donner and the surrounding area; analyze the information collected and prepare findings and recommendations; and secondly, to identify the need for internal transportation related functions to support the needs of the Property Owners, such as shuttle services, parking at various Tahoe Donner facilities, etc It is important to note that the majority of the issues for this element are not within the direct control or responsibility of Tahoe Donner Association. Primary responsibility lies with the respective government organizations for providing and maintaining these facilities. However, since funding comes from a variety of sources, some from the general tax base, some from the Town’s traffic impact fee on new homes, and some from a parcel charge unique to Tahoe Donner property, it is important for the Association to assure the services received from the respective organizations are consistent and fair with the taxes and charges compared to other developments within the service areas. It is also important that the Association provides an advocacy relationship with the respective agencies to assure the needs of the Association are met. The most critical funding issue for the Association to track and provide guidance to the Town is the Truckee Special Services Area – 1 (TSSA-1). A brief historical summary is presented here to provide perspective for the reader of this report, so they can understand the issues relating to this funding. BACKGROUND Tahoe Donner Road Maintenance and Improvements A very detailed and excellent review of the history of roads within Tahoe Donner is presented in the Transportation Element section of the General Plan published in 2000. Those interested in knowing the complete background of our road system are encouraged to read that review. Original construction: The Tahoe Donner road system was completed in 1973 by Dart Resorts. Dart Resorts, in addition to completing the road system (over 60 miles of paved roads), constructed a road maintenance facility at our maintenance yard, principally to house the snow removal equipment and to provide space for maintaining and operating this equipment. Dart also purchased the necessary snow removal equipment for snow removal within Tahoe Donner. Nevada County Responsibility: Shortly thereafter, the County of Nevada agreed to accept our roads giving the county the responsibility of maintaining and repairing our roads including snow removal. Tahoe Donner roads were deeded to the County in 1974. Deteriorating Roads: In 1983-84, property owners began to complain about the condition of Tahoe Donner roads and the need for an increased level of maintenance and enhancement program. The county, claiming it had no funding for road maintenance, in late 1984, proposed expanding County Service Area No. 4 (CSA-4) to include road maintenance and authorized an engineering service agreement to develop a pavement maintenance and enhancement program for Tahoe Donner CSA-4. County Service Area No. 4 was approved on April 8, 1985. For several years, the Board negotiated with the County over what was to be done and how it was to be accounted for, but the discussions never resulted in an agreement that Tahoe Donner’s Board had confidence in, and the Board did not recommend assessment of road improvement funds. In early 1992, the county completed a Pavement Management System (PMS) for CSA-4, providing a twenty-year plan with a five-year expenditure plan to complete the most needed road repairs to put our roads in an easily maintained state. The estimated cost for this five-year plan was $2.5 million, and projected costs over twenty-years at $8 million. Based on these estimates our board and county officials 2006 Tahoe Donner Association General Plan Update 72 agreed to triple the road maintenance parcel charges to fund this five-year program. The actual parcel charges for 1992/93 were set at $95 per developed lot and $70 per undeveloped lot, where it remains today. In 1992, the voters authorized the incorporation of the Town of Truckee, including Tahoe Donner. Effective July 1, 1993, the Town of Truckee became responsible for the roads within Tahoe Donner. At that time, CSA-4 ceased to exist and the Town Special Service Area 1 was established (TSSA-1). The Tahoe Donner parcel charges of $95 per developed lot and $70 per undeveloped lot are now being placed in TSSA-1, which is managed by the Town. Current Status: The Town of Truckee has been responsible for the maintenance and improvement of our road system. Limited road improvement work was accomplished between 1993 and 1997; however, in 1998, substantial improvements were made. The town completed its pavement management plan in April 1999, which planned for slurry sealing Tahoe Donner roads every three years, and full overlay or replacement every 7 years. The Town is evaluating its Overall Condition Index (OCI) during winter 2006- 07 to determine if its schedule for sealing and overlay is appropriate. In addition to sealing, the Town is using TSSA-1 funds for roadway-related drainage improvements, repairs of storm-damaged roadways, and plans to use these funds for installation of guard rails on steep, curving portions of Northwoods and Schussing. While the level of maintenance seems to have reached a level of maturity and quality satisfactory to the residents of Tahoe Donner, it is important that Tahoe Donner Association continue to monitor the activities and planned expenditures of the Town. As an example, the Town planned to use funds in the TSSA-1 account to contribute to the Pioneer Trail Extension, which is planned for construction from Tahoe Donner to the existing Pioneer Trail west of SR89 near the I-80 interchange. While the extension would benefit TD by reducing traffic on Donner Pass road, the Association felt the benefit was to the community as a whole and should be paid from general tax funds paid equally by all residents of the Town. It is important that TD continue to monitor these expenditures to assure the parcel tax uniquely paid by TD is used strictly for the benefit of the Property Owners. Other Transportation Services The following transportation services (other than private vehicles) are available for Truckee and Tahoe Donner residents: Regional Services: • Scheduled airline services are available at the Reno Airport. A new North Lake Tahoe Express bus service provides connections between the airport and Truckee/North Lake Tahoe. • Charter flights and services for private and business airplanes are available at Tahoe Truckee Airport. • Bus (Greyhound and Amtrak) and rail (Amtrak) scheduled services are available at the Downtown Truckee Train Station. Local Services: • "The Bus" provides scheduled services between the Truckee Station and Tahoe City with several stops en route. "The Bus" is operated by the Tahoe Area Regional Transit District (TART). • Dial-a-Ride provides on-call services to the Truckee area including Tahoe Donner. • The Truckee Trolley operates on a summer and winter schedule and the routes also change with the schedule. The summer route operates between the airport and the west end of Donner Lake, while winter extensions link Northstar and Sugar Bowl with the downtown Truckee train station/transfer point. The area for potential expansion is the bus service, which is discussed in the section “Transit Service”. Third Access Road The primary entrance, Northwoods Boulevard, the primary access to Tahoe Donner, is in reasonably good shape. The problem with Northwoods Boulevard access is the steepness of the road and the increasing 2006 Tahoe Donner Association General Plan Update 73 congestion. In the event of a major disaster, it would be very difficult to timely evacuate the residents and/or get emergency equipment in. Alder Creek Road, the alternative access, connects to State Route 89, which provides access to the north, and links to I-80 and the Route 267 Truckee bypass. A third and properly designed entrance road would be beneficial for safety and to reduce traffic on Northwoods Boulevard. The other town roads are of interest to us as town residents, however, they impact us as individuals in varying ways. It is recognized that the town has very limited funds to meet their (and our) growing road maintenance problems. Bicycle Trails (Bikeways) When Tahoe Donner was constructed, Dart Resorts did not provide any specific bicycle trails, relying on the road system to provide for bicycle travel and internal walking, and equestrian trails and trails provided by others for off-road recreational bicycle use. In 1996, a previous Nevada County bicycle master plan was updated and expanded. The updated plan includes expanded bicycle opportunities within the Town of Truckee. Both plans include Class II bike lanes along Alder Creek to Fjord to Northwoods Boulevard and along Northwoods Boulevard to Donner Pass Road, continuing both east and west on Donner Pass Road. Recent signage has increased the visibility of bikeways in Tahoe Donner. The updated master plan proposes the standard design criteria established by California Department of Transportation (Caltrans), the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials, (AASHTO) and the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA). These design standards provide for three distinct types of bikeway facilities: • Class I Bikeway (Bike Path) - provides a completely separated right-of-way for the exclusive use of bicycles and pedestrians with crossflow minimized; • Class II Bikeway (Bike Lane) - provides a striped lane for one-way bike travel on a street or highway; and • Class III Bikeway (Bike Route) - provides for shared use with pedestrian or motor vehicle traffic. The Nevada County Bicycle Master Plan envisions that the construction proposed by the plan would be completed within twenty years. INFORMATION AND ANALYSIS In this section we will use the background information, add new information, analyze the information and determine appropriate actions, if any. In the sub-sections that follow we will address roads, bicycle trails and other transportation services. Roads Since adequate funding of the town's road system will continue to be a problem for the foreseeable future, it is apparent that the TSSA-1 parcel charge will continue to be required if we are to see continued road improvements within Tahoe Donner. The board and staff must stay on top of our road maintenance problems and ensure that our parcel charges are only used for overlays, rehabilitations and improvements within Tahoe Donner. The town has completed their five-year road improvement plan. The existing ad-hoc road committee should monitor our road issues. This committee should report directly to the general manager. Third Access Road: Access into Tahoe Donner is presently inadequate due to the steepness of and volume of traffic on Northwoods Boulevard, and the fact that we have only two access roads into and out of Tahoe Donner. However, it is difficult to conceptualize an alternative route that will remove significant traffic off Northwoods; Alder Creek does not serve such a function. In the event of disaster (such as a major forest fire), it would be difficult, if not impossible, to get people out of the area and emergency vehicles in. As Tahoe Donner continues to develop, the need for another access road becomes increasingly urgent. The Town of Truckee's General Plan proposes the construction of a road connecting Northwoods Boulevard (or Lausanne) with an extension of Pioneer Trail, with a connection to an extension of Bridge Street providing a linkage to downtown Truckee. 2006 Tahoe Donner Association General Plan Update 74 From the Town perspective, the value of the Pioneer Trail/Bridge Street connection to Tahoe Donner would be to diminish traffic on Donner Pass Road between Northwoods Boulevard and the Gateway area. The estimated cost for the two mile connection between the west end of Pioneer Trail and Tahoe Donner is approximately $15 million (including the Bridge Street connection). The Town has a roadway improvement list that would cost $65 million to complete. Potential funding sources for the project would be utility agencies interested in upgrading their facilities, contributions from developers, and the Town Traffic Impact Fee. The current fee, of $2,381 per new housing unit, is considered inadequate for present needs and is under review. Therefore, it is imperative that our board work closely with the town council, and our staff with the town's staff to ensure the Tahoe Donner and the downtown connectors remain a high priority. The road committee would be helpful in this regard also. In addition to the two connector roads, the board and staff should continue their efforts to develop additional emergency egress routes from Tahoe Donner. While the need is generally accepted, no definitive study has been made for locating this emergency exit. Discussions have been held for a road out through Euer Valley, through Negro Canyon and joining I-80 at the Donner Lake exit. Also discussed would be an exit on the eastern side of the development joining the Pioneer Trail extension. Both have challenging political and cost considerations. This report recommends a definitive study of the potential emergency exit scenarios, the risks associated with each, and potential solutions for emergency exit under a disaster situation. It is recommended that this study be under the supervision of Bill Houdyschell, the TD Forester, and the Ad-Hoc road committee. Without a well stated requirement with risks associated, this problem will likely never be addressed. Bikeways The Nevada County Bicycle Master Plan provides an overall well thought-out plan for the development of bikeways throughout the county and the incorporated cities within the county, including Truckee. On Donner Pass Road, the bikeway would go both east and west connecting Donner Lake on the west to Glenshire on the east. The bikeway within the Town of Truckee is proposed to loop Donner Lake and have a scenic river route en route to Glenshire. The proposed plan appears to adequately serve Tahoe Donner. As the Class II bike lanes are being completed, Tahoe Donner should work with the town to designate some additional streets as Class III bicycle routes. Class II bike lanes should be considered on Alder Creek Road. Our hiking, cross-country ski and equestrian trails should continue to be available to our bicyclists (see Land Use and Open Space Element) to the extent feasible. There are limited federal and state funds in addition to local funds available for the development of bikeways. Our board and staff should work with town officials to encourage the development of bikeways within Tahoe Donner and the Town of Truckee. Bikeways are a valuable asset to provide an alternative mode of transportation. The Association should consider the possibility of a Class I bike trail to divert bike traffic from Northwoods Boulevard. Transit Service The Nevada County Transportation Commission’s 2005 Regional Transportation Plan (RTP) describes the desirability of extending Capitol Corridor rail service from the Bay Area to Truckee and Reno, but the project is on hold pending funding and Union Pacific concern about track usage. The RTP also cites the success of the Truckee Trolley and the public-private partnership that provides the employee and visitor service between downtown Truckee, Northstar, and Sugar Bowl during the ski season. Results of the General Plan questionnaire indicated that property owners don’t believe improved transit service subsidized by Tahoe Donner should be a priority. However, as fuel prices continue to increase, parking is constrained at several Tahoe Donner amenities, and seasonal employees do not always have access to cars, there is interest in internal connections as well as some transit service linking Tahoe Donner with downtown Truckee (besides the current Dial-a-Ride service). The General Plan Committee strongly believes that improved transit connections to and within TD will be required in the longer term. 2006 Tahoe Donner Association General Plan Update 75 The present Truckee winter transit services (116 days) to Sugar Bowl and Northstar are funded 50% by the resorts (passengers ride for free), 33% by the North Lake Tahoe Resort Association, and 17% from Town state transit funding. For winter 2006-07, Truckee is also operating night transit service as a pilot project, providing downtown connections from Northstar and motels along Highway 267 and Donner Pass Road west to Donner Lake Village. The Town is contributing 42% of the cost and Northstar and the motels the remainder, providing a free ride for patrons. According to Town staff, a third winter route is under consideration for FY 2007-08, linking the Grey’s Crossing/Pioneer Trail area with downtown Truckee. A third bus would be required, and would potentially have capability to serve Tahoe Donner. Based on the Sugar Bowl/Donner Summit Shuttle Agreement approved by the Town Council on November 16, 2006, a half-time shuttle service to Tahoe Donner would require an approximately $13,000 subsidy from TD if the North Lake Tahoe Resort Association and Town contributed in the same ratio as with the current services. Tahoe Donner Parking Individual sections of this General Plan update indicate parking shortages at several TD amenities. The most frequent deficiency occurs at the cross-country ski area, and deficiencies also occur on peak days at the downhill ski area and at the marina. Permitting and developing new parking areas can be difficult and expensive because of the need to comply with water quality requirements; the board rejected one proposal for expansion of parking at the cross-country area because of the high cost per space. There are opportunities for increasing parking that has potential to rectify the parking problems with multiple amenities, in other words joint use parking plans. These multi-purpose parking proposals have all been generated with the help of Bill Houdyschell, who is in the process of mapping the options. The options are described on page 66 in the Land Use section. FINDINGS AND RECOMMENDATIONS Finding No. 1 Tahoe Donner has been and is significantly impacted by the actions of state and local governments. The actions of these governments are not under the direct influence or control of Tahoe Donner Association. Recommendation A That the board stay thoroughly informed on actions proposed by State and local governments as well as by private entities that impact Tahoe Donner and fully inform the property owners of the impact of the proposed actions and what options are available to the property owners. While the permissible extent of the Board's advocacy and “watch dog” role may be limited, the Board does have an obligation to inform the Tahoe Donner membership regarding actions proposed by government agencies and others, and lobby these agencies to assure full understanding of TD Property Owners interests as appropriate. _X_ YES ___ NO PRIORITY NUMBER: 1 Finding No. 2 The Town of Truckee appears to have sufficient revenues available to prevent the continued deterioration of its road system, including the roads within Tahoe Donner. However, the level of funding and Town’s prioritization should be reviewed annually to assure the level of maintenance is appropriate. Recommendation B That the Tahoe Donner Association continue to support a parcel fee for TSSA-1 to be used for overlays, rehabilitations and safety issues. The parcel charges should be carefully monitored and adjusted as necessary. Any usage of TSSA-1 funds for new road projects should be reviewed and considered only in conjunction with a comprehensive funding package that is proportionate with benefits received. ALREADY COMPLETED ANNUALLY Recommendation C The current ad-hoc road committee should continue to monitor road maintenance issues and keep the Board 2006 Tahoe Donner Association General Plan Update 76 and Property Owners informed to assure the Associations gets full value for what we are paying. _X_ YES ___ NO PRIORITY NUMBER: 1 Finding No. 3 That the Nevada County Bicycle Master Plan Update is a well thought-out, comprehensive plan that if implemented within the Town of Truckee, and is becoming a great benefit to the residents of Tahoe Donner. Strong support for trails was also demonstrated in the responses of Property Owners to General Plan Survey #2. Recommendation D The board and staff support the implementation of the Bicycle Master Plan and work with town officials to expedite development of the bikeways within the Town of Truckee and Tahoe Donner. With the strong support voiced by the Property Owners in General Plan Survey #2, a feasibility study for a Class I trail(s) along heavily traveled sections of key connector roads, such as Northwoods Boulevard and possibly Alder Creek Road. At a minimum, Class II striping should be provided on Alder Creek Road. While a Class I project might be expensive, the improvement in access and safety could be of great benefit to the Association. Such a study should also include a Class I trail from TD property to downtown. _X_ YES ___ NO PRIORITY NUMBER: 2 Finding No. 4 A third access road is needed now and will become a critical need as development continues. While the need is generally understood, specifics of where the access road needs to be and the risk assessment from various disaster scenarios has not been completed. Recommendation E That our board and staff work closely with the town and appropriate elected officials to expedite construction of the Tahoe Donner and Downtown Connectors. The road committee proposed in Recommendation C would be useful on this matter. We feel a professional risk assessment of potential disaster scenarios should be conducted to better understand the need and urgency of a third access road. This could potentially be funded from TSSA-1 funds. ___ YES _X_ NO Finding No. 5 Internal bus service with connection to the town is highly desirable if it can be provided on an economical basis. Recommendation F That our board and staff review the costs for internal bus service to our amenities and/or the town; and if economically feasible, implement such a plan, perhaps in conjunction with the town. Following the Northstar and Sugar Bowl model, it might be possible for a shared cost transit connection between Tahoe Donner and downtown Truckee. If no other funding source is available, TD could encourage the use of any extra TSSA-1 funds for supporting transit service. _X_ YES ___ NO PRIORITY NUMBER: 2 Finding No. 6 There are parking shortages at several Tahoe Donner amenities. At times, this constrains usage and potential revenue, particularly at the public amenities of cross-country and downhill skiing. Recommendation G Tahoe Donner needs to seek amenity parking solutions, including the potential of joint-use parking facilities and use of shuttle service to divert employee parking. _X_ YES ___ NO PRIORITY NUMBER: 1 2006 Tahoe Donner Association General Plan Update 77 BIBLIOGRAPHY 1. Town of Truckee General Plan Vols 1-4, adopted February 15, 1996. 2. Five Year Pavement Management Plan Tahoe Donner Resort for Nevada County by Curtis/Hessiman Engineering Consultants, June 1985. 3. Five Year Pavement Management for County Service Area 4 (preliminary draft), March 1992. 4. Nevada County Bicycle Master Plan Update Final Report, June 1996. 5. Nevada County Transportation Commission, 2005 Regional Transportation Plan, January 2006. 6. Personal communication with Todd Landry, Senior Engineer, Town of Truckee, November 2006. 7. Personal communication with Alex Terrazas, Assistant to the Town Manager, November 2006. 2006 Tahoe Donner Association General Plan Update 78 2.12 TROUT CREEK RECREATION CENTER BACKGROUND Constructed in 1993, Trout Creek Recreation Center is the most heavily used amenity within Tahoe Donner (TD) experiencing more than 120,000 visitors in 2005. Trout Creek is a full-service recreation center that offers year round programming including cardio, weights, fitness classes, yoga, swimming, day camps, snow play and more. In 2005 the facility was doubled in size to just over 16,000 square feet. A new fitness room, weight room, cardio room, restrooms, family activity room, manager’s office, staff break room and storage space were added. Because of the vast services offered at Trout Creek (TC), it is considered by many to be the “hub” of all Tahoe Donner activity. Trout Creek is a private amenity that is available exclusively to property owners and their guests. INFORMATION AND ANALYSIS Tahoe Donner property owners can access TC by paying the $197/yr recreational fee per family of up to four people, or can pay $5/use. The fee to access TC is exceptionally priced compared to similar amenities offered by other associations as shown in Table 2.12.1. Table 2.12.1. Amenity Access Fee Competitive Comparison Trout Creek- Tahoe Donner Incline Village General Improvement District Old Greenwood Paramount Fitness $197 annually family of 4 $5/visit $897 annually family of five $85/month $30,000 initiation fee + $250/mth $100/mth per person 3 pools 3 hot tubs Sauna Weight room Cardio room Yoga Exercise classes Swim classes Day camp Activity programs Indoor pool Sauna Cardio room Weight Room Indoor full court basketball Fitness classes Sports league Year –round outdoor pool Hot tub Cardio Spin class Yoga & Pilates Youth camps Golf Fishing Children’s water park Swim lessons Cardio Aerobic Classes In the past five years, 2001-2005, usage at TC has increased over 33%. Table 2.12.2 shows the usage rates by user category. TC is open 363 days per year (closed for two days for spring cleaning). Peak usage time is on the weekend between 6am-9am and 4pm-7pm. During the prime season periods (Dec- Feb, Sept-Nov) approximately 4 times as many people use the facility on weekends than do during weekday periods. 72% of all weekend guest usage occurs between 4-7pm. Usage rates are shown below in Table 2.12.3. 2006 Tahoe Donner Association General Plan Update 79 Table 2.12.2. Trout Creek Annual Usage Trout Creek Recreation Center Usage 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 Member- Rec Fee 70,662 84,107 90,403 73,939 93,769 Member- Pd Entry 3,466 5,613 5,333 3,408 4,576 Guest 16,578 20,710 19,944 18,966 20,966 Employee 2,636 3,626 4,229 3,523 5,367 Total 93,342 114,056 119,909 99,836 124,678 Growth 22% 5% -17% 25% 5 year growth 34% Table 2.12.3. Trout Creek Usage by Time Slot Trout Creek Usage Summary March-May, Sept-November 6- 9am 9am-noon noon-1pm 1- 4pm 4- 7pm 7- 10pm Day Total Weekday 14 15 15 24 26 10 104 Weekend 84 53 39 65 95 41 377 Dec-Feb, Jun-Aug 6- 9am 9am-noon noon-1pm 1- 4pm 4- 7pm 7- 10pm Day Total Weekday 31 48 32 57 56 17 241 Weekend 207 145 119 171 255 85 982 Capacity Capacity at TC is set by the fire department and varies from facility to facility within TC (Table 2.12.4). On a day-to-day basis TC operates far under capacity. However, during the last two weeks of December, Ski/Skate week and Fourth of July, TC often exceeds capacity and people are turned away for safety reasons. Since exceeding capacity occurs only 3 weeks a year we do not see a need at this point to expand capacity. Table 2.12.4. Capacity by facility within Trout Creek FACILITY USAGE CAPACITY Main swimming pool (only open summer) 93 persons Lap pool (3 lanes, open year 'round ) 36 persons / less if used for lap swimming Children's wading pool (open summer) 11 persons Spa No. 1 11 persons Spa No. 2 11 persons Steam room 8 persons Sauna 8 persons Exercise/weight equipment room 25 persons Additionally, in the 2006 General Plan Survey property owners were asked three questions in order to measure their support regarding either building an additional recreation center or expanding the current center to accommodate future growth. As shown in the charts below (Tables 2.12.5-7) there is a lack of strong property owner support to fund either an additional recreation center or further expand TC. 2006 Tahoe Donner Association General Plan Update 80 Table 2.12.5. Survey Response from 2006 GP Survey Q#35 Table 2.12.6. Survey Response from 2006 GP Survey Q#36 Table 2.12.7. Survey Response from 2006 GP Survey Q#37 Furthermore, in January 2006 the board met to review property owner feedback regarding three proposals to enhance the space behind the recreation pool that currently consists of a play structure, basketball courts and a picnic area. A landscape architect was retained to develop three concepts that would be funded by the “32 acres money” if adopted. After soliciting property owner feedback on the concepts, it was clear that the membership was not in support of any of the proposals for fear that is may become too “Disneyland like”. Many felt that the concepts were too grand and than a smaller scale concept may be more appropriate. 2006 Tahoe Donner Association General Plan Update 81 In March of 2006, TC launched a survey to TC users to provide feedback on the facility. The results of this survey are shown in Tables 2.12.8-11. As of December 2006 the results show that 20% of users come to TC utilize the weight room while 34% come to use the pool and spa Table 2.12.8. Reason for Visiting Trout Creek Primary Reason for visiting Trout Creek Cardio Room 46 40% Weigh Lifting 23 20% Pools & Spas 39 34% Day Camp/Children's Programs 1 1% Fitness Classes 6 5% 115 26% of users would like to see Tahoe Donner invest in more cardio equipment at TC, while 14% would like to see more children’s programs. Table 2.12.9. What members would like to see added to TC Recreation Center What do you want to see added to TC Recreation Center? More cardio equipment 25 26% More children's programs 14 14% More gender/sport specific fitness programs 10 10% More weigh equipment 13 13% Other 36 37% 98 TC management is considering offering spa services as a way to expand the TC offerings and to increase revenues. 57% of survey respondents are in favor of this proposal. Table 2.12.10. Level of interest in spa services at Trout Creek Would you be interested having TC offer spa services such as massage? No 49 43% Yes $25-$50 27 24% Yes $50- $75 25 22% Yes $75-100 8 7% Yes $100-$150 3 3% Yes 150+ 1 1% 113 TC management is considering expanding food service options during the summer months and peak weekends. 54% of survey respondents are in favor of TC offering additional food service. Table 2.12.11. Level of Interest for Expanded Food Service at Trout Creek Would you be in favor of expanded food service at Trout Creek? Yes 61 53% No 54 47% 115 2006 Tahoe Donner Association General Plan Update 82 Table 2.12.12. Trout Creek Revenue and Expense Patterns: 2001-2005 22000011 2002 2003 2004 2005 Revenue $413,992 $504,062 $595,944 $595,480 $702,999 Operating Expenses $482,868 $487,400 $568,983 $650,518 $681,403 Net Operating Results -$68,876 $16,662 $26,961 -$55,038 $21,596 Allocated Overhead $56,576 $65,433 $78,132 $115,323 $124,647 Net Results with Overhead -$125,452 -$48,771 -$51,171 -$170,361 -$103,051 Cost Recovery Ratio 7777%% 91% 92% 78% 87% Capital Expenses/Funding nn//aa $77,179 $96,411 $102,475 $93,893 Net Results with Overhead/Capital Expenses nn//aa -$125,950 -$147,582 -$272,836 -$196,944 P/O Yearly Assessment/ Contribution nn//aa $19.38 $22.71 $41.98 $30.30 Overall, TD property owners are very satisfied Trout Creek and would like to see the facility well maintained. In the 2006 TD Demographic survey: • 90% of respondents rated the facility as Good or Excellent • 81% rated the weight room as Good or Excellent • 85% rated the cardio room as Good or Excellent • 47% use TC 11 or more times annually FINDINGS AND RECOMMENDATIONS • Because property owners have consistently indicated throughout the various surveys that they are pleased with the current amenity and do not want to further invest in amenity expansion our recommendations are centered around maintaining and enhancing the current facility. Finding No. 1 26% of users would like to see Tahoe Donner invest in more cardio equipment at TC, while 13% would like to see more investment in weight training equipment. Recommendation A Continually invest in new cardio and weight equipment so members have access to the latest equipment and increased equipment availability during peak times _X_ YES ___ NO PRIORITY NUMBER: 1 Finding No. 2 While the space behind the pool is underutilized, property owners are unwilling to support an expensive build-out to repurpose the area. 2006 Tahoe Donner Association General Plan Update 83 Recommendation B The space behind the pool is under utilized. The board should revisit how this space can be optimized while paying particular attention to the property owner’s request to maintain a peaceful and natural environment. We recommend forming a small task force to additional solicit property owner input and bring 1-3 ideas to the board for how this space can be used. _X_ YES ___ NO PRIORITY NUMBER: 1 To be completed by the GPC Finding No. 3 53% of TC users who have responded to the 2006 TC survey indicate wanting additional food service. Recommendation C Look for ways to offer expanded food service during peak times so that Tahoe Donner can capitalize on the revenue opportunity while meeting the property owner’s desire for on site meal service. There may be an opportunity to partner with the Lodge to provide lunch boxes or to offer weekend BBQs in the park adjacent to the pool during the peak times. _X_ YES ___ NO PRIORITY NUMBER: 1 To be completed by the GPC Finding No. 4 Tahoe Donner property owners would like to have an on-site, short term, child care option at TC. Recommendation D Looks for ways to address property owner’s request for a short term on-site child care option while using the TC facilities _X_ YES ___ NO PRIORITY NUMBER: 1 To be completed by the GPC NOT I M P O R T A N T UNI M P O R T A N T NEU T R A L IMP O R T A N T VER Y I M P O R T A N T Easy access to undeveloped recreation activities like hiking, snowshoeing, dog walking, etc. Developed recreational amenities like golf, skiing, and tennis Proximity to natural beauty and open areas Family friendly activities and programs The physical appearance of our neighborhood and amenities Improved quality, capacity, and parking at existing developed amenities Developing new amenities (examples include: a sports field, racquetball courts, ice rink, bowling Increased undeveloped recreation (hiking, biking, and snowshoeing trails) More businesses and services located within Tahoe Donner Shuttle service within Tahoe Donner and between Tahoe Donner and downtown Additional access into and out of Tahoe Donner Improve aesthetics by putting overhead utility lines underground Potential for real estate appreciation QU E S T I O N S 1 – 1 3 PARTICIPANT RESPONSES General Plan Committee Preliminary Survey Analysis Member Responses to Questions 1 – 13: Changes to the Association The following represents information compiled from those members who filled out and returned the Demographic Survey that was sent out in April 2006. Responses are printed as they were received, typos included. Text was not altered in any way and is not necessarily a reflection of the opinions of the association as a whole. We hope that you find the results informative and insightful. 2006 Membership Demographic & Customer Service Survey 1.Which of the following includes your age group? Response Total Response Percent 18-24 2 0% 25-34 53 2% 35-44 Response equal to 15 386 15% 45-54 Response equal to 29 723 29% 55-64 Response equal to 33 827 33% 65-74 Response equal to 16 389 16% 75+96 4% Prefer not to answer 24 1% Total Respondents 2500 (skipped this question)55 2.Please indicate your gender: Response Total Response Percent male Response equal to 69 1699 69% female Response equal to 31 750 31% Total Respondents 2449 (skipped this question)106 3.What is the size of your immediate household including yourself? Response Total Response Percent 1 Response equal to 6 159 6% 2 Response equal to 46 1149 46% 3 Response equal to 13 315 13% 4 Response equal to 22 552 22% 5 or more Response equal to 13 313 13% Total Respondents 2488 (skipped this question)67 4.How many people within your immediate household are between the ages of 13-18? Response Response Total Percent None Response equal to 78 1955 78% 1 Response equal to 11 281 11% 2 Response equal to 8 208 8% 3 28 1% 4 or more 19 1% Total Respondents 2491 (skipped this question)64 5.How many people within your immediate household are between the ages of 5-12? Response Total Response Percent None Response equal to 81 2005 81% 1 Response equal to 10 249 10% 2 Response equal to 7 170 7% 3 48 2% 4 or more 12 0% Total Respondents 2484 (skipped this question)71 6.How many people within your immediate household are between the ages of 0-4? Response Total Response Percent None Response equal to 91 2232 91% 1 Response equal to 6 143 6% 2 68 3% 3 12 0% 4 or more 5 0% Total Respondents 2460 (skipped this question)95 7.Which of the following best describes the status of your Tahoe Donner property? Response Total Response Percent Primary Residence Response equal to 20 504 20% Second home that I do not rent out Response equal to 60 1511 60% Second home that I do rent out as short-term vacation rental Response equal to 13 323 13% Long-term rental (9 months or longer) 50 2% Vacant lot 123 5% Under construction 14 1% Total Respondents 2525 (skipped this question)30 8.Do you share ownership of this property with more than one family? Response Total Response Percent Yes Response equal to 8 206 8% No Response equal to 92 2314 92% Total Respondents 2520 (skipped this question)35 9.How many families? Response Average View responses to this question View individual responses to this question 1.0 Total Respondents 1705 (skipped this question)850 10.How many total people? Response Average View responses to this question View individual responses to this question 1.3 Total Respondents 1679 (skipped this question)876 11.How many times a year do you have visitors, who use the association's amenities? Response Total Response Percent 0 Response equal to 16 402 16% 1-10 Response equal to 71 1779 71% 11-30 Response equal to 11 274 11% 31-50 38 2% 51 or more 21 1% Total Respondents 2514 (skipped this question)41 12.How long have you owned a property in Tahoe Donner? Response Total Response Percent 1 year Response equal to 6 144 6% 2 years Response equal to 7 181 7% 3-5 years Response equal to 18 456 18% 6-10 years Response equal to 26 664 26% 11 or more years Response equal to 43 1078 43% Total Respondents 2523 (skipped this question)32 13. What are the primary reasons why you purchased property in Tahoe Donner? MULTIPLE ANSWERS OPTIONAL FOR THIS QUESTION Response Total Response Percent Tahoe/mountain lifestyle Response equal to 63 1585 63% Amenties Response equal to 36 913 36% Proximity to other outdoor recreational opportunities (i.e. skiing, hiking, Lake Tahoe) Response equal to 54 1344 54% Business opportunities 28 1% Investment Response equal to 16 410 16% Total Respondents 2502 (skipped this question)53 14.What is your total annual household income? (Select one) Response Total Response Percent Less than $35,000 28 1% $35,001 - $50,000 56 2% $50,001 - $100,000 Response equal to 15 372 15% $100,001 - $150,000 Response equal to 17 426 17% $150,001 - $200,000 Response equal to 14 359 14% $200,001 or more Response equal to 30 755 30% Prefer not to answer Response equal to 20 502 20% Total Respondents 2498 (skipped this question)57 15.How often does your household typically use Alder Creek Campground (including guests)? Response Total Response Percent Never (please skip to next amenity) Response equal to 87 2186 87% 1 - 5 times Response equal to 12 296 12% 6 - 10 times 20 1% Over 10 times 11 0% Total Respondents 2513 (skipped this question)42 16.Overall, how would you rate Alder Creek Campground's customer service? Response Total Response Percent Excellent Response equal to 38 129 38% Good Response equal to 47 159 47% Average Response equal to 13 45 13% Poor 3 1% Very Poor 2 1% Total Respondents 338 (skipped this question)2217 17.How would you rate the facility as a whole? Response Total Response Percent Excellent Response equal to 33 113 33% Good Response equal to 53 181 53% Average Response equal to 12 42 12% Poor 3 1% Very Poor 0 0% Total Respondents 339 (skipped this question)2216 18.How often does your household use Trout Creek Recreation Center during the year (including guests)? Response Total Response Percent Never (please skip to next amenity) Response equal to 16 398 16% 1 - 5 times Response equal to 21 523 21% 6 - 10 times Response equal to 17 433 17% 11 - 20 times Response equal to 18 447 18% Over 20 times Response equal to 29 719 29% Total Respondents 2520 (skipped this question)35 19.Overall, how would you rate the customer service you received at Trout Creek Recreation Center? Response Total Response Percent Excellent Response equal to 31 649 31% Good Response equal to 53 1117 53% Average Response equal to 14 287 14% Poor 32 2% Very Poor 3 0% Total Respondents 2088 (skipped this question)467 20.How would you rate the activity classes at Trout Creek Recreation Center (e.g., aerobics, yoga)? Response Response Total Percent Excellent Response equal to 16 189 16% Good Response equal to 56 674 56% Average Response equal to 26 311 26% Poor 28 2% Very Poor 1 0% Total Respondents 1203 (skipped this question)1352 21.How would you rate the cardio equipment at Trout Creek Recreation center? Response Total Response Percent Excellent Response equal to 28 505 28% Good Response equal to 56 1006 56% Average Response equal to 15 263 15% Poor 13 1% Very Poor 5 0% Total Respondents 1792 (skipped this question)763 22.How would you rate the weight training equipment at Trout Creek Recreation Center? Response Total Response Percent Excellent Response equal to 26 449 26% Good Response equal to 54 950 54% Average Response equal to 18 311 18% Poor 29 2% Very Poor 5 0% Total Respondents 1744 (skipped this question)811 23.How would you rate the facility as a whole? Response Total Response Percent Excellent Response equal to 32 648 32% Good Response equal to 58 1174 58% Average Response equal to 10 197 10% Poor 10 0% Very Poor 3 0% Total Respondents 2032 (skipped this question)523 24.How often does your household use the Tahoe Donner Golf Course (including guests)? Response Total Response Percent Never (please skip to next amenity) Response equal to 46 1159 46% 1 - 5 times Response equal to 31 771 31% 6 - 10 times Response equal to 12 301 12% Over 10 times Response equal to 11 283 11% Total Respondents 2514 (skipped this question)41 25.Overall, how would you rate the customer service you received at the Tahoe Donner Golf Course? Response Total Response Percent Excellent Response equal to 26 345 26% Good Response equal to 57 760 57% Average Response equal to 14 192 14% Poor 33 2% Very Poor 8 1% Total Respondents 1338 (skipped this question)1217 26.How would you rate the overall playability of the Tahoe Donner Golf Course? Response Total Response Percent Excellent Response equal to 21 284 21% Good Response equal to 61 808 61% Average Response equal to 14 188 14% Poor 39 3% Very Poor 6 0% Total Respondents 1325 (skipped this question)1230 27.How would you rate the facility as a whole? Response Total Response Percent Excellent Response equal to 24 311 24% Good Response equal to 61 804 61% Average Response equal to 14 185 14% Poor 20 2% Very Poor 2 0% Total Respondents 1322 (skipped this question)1233 28.How often does your household use the Tennis Center (including guests)? Response Total Response Percent Never (please skip to next amenity) Response equal to 66 1644 66% 1 - 5 times Response equal to 22 536 22% 6 - 10 times 136 5% Over 10 times Response equal to 7 163 7% Total Respondents 2479 (skipped this question)76 29.Overall, how would you rate the customer service you have received at the Tennis Center? Response Total Response Percent Excellent Response equal to 32 265 32% Good Response equal to 56 463 56% Average Response equal to 11 93 11% Poor 7 1% Very Poor 0 0% Total Respondents 828 (skipped this question)1727 30.How do you rate the special events held at the Tennis Center? Response Total Response Percent Excellent Response equal to 20 103 20% Good Response equal to 61 319 61% Average Response equal to 17 87 17% Poor 10 2% Very Poor 1 0% Total Respondents 520 (skipped this question)2035 31.How do you rate the instruction given at the tennis Center? Response Total Response Percent Excellent Response equal to 20 100 20% Good Response equal to 57 280 57% Average Response equal to 21 104 21% Poor 5 1% Very Poor 2 0% Total Respondents 491 (skipped this question)2064 32.How would you rate the facility as a whole? Response Total Response Percent Excellent Response equal to 29 232 29% Good Response equal to 60 472 60% Average Response equal to 11 85 11% Poor 4 1% Very Poor 0 0% Total Respondents 793 (skipped this question)1762 33.How often does your household use the Beach Club Marina (including guests)? Response Total Response Percent Never (please skip to next amenity) Response equal to 22 556 22% 1 - 5 times Response equal to 42 1042 42% 6 - 10 times Response equal to 17 438 17% Over 10 times Response equal to 19 473 19% Total Respondents 2509 (skipped this question)46 34.Overall, how do you rate the customer service you have received at the Beach Club Marina? Response Total Response Percent Excellent Response equal to 26 504 26% Good Response equal to 56 1075 56% Average Response equal to 16 308 16% Poor 32 2% Very Poor 2 0% Total Respondents 1921 (skipped this question)634 35.How would you rate the sailing and boating equipment at the Beach Club Marina? Response Total Response Percent Excellent Response equal to 14 224 14% Good Response equal to 59 951 59% Average Response equal to 25 409 25% Poor 22 1% Very Poor 0 0% Total Respondents 1606 (skipped this question)949 36.How would you rate the facility as a whole? Response Total Response Percent Excellent Response equal to 25 466 25% Good Response equal to 61 1138 61% Average Response equal to 14 254 14% Poor 16 1% Very Poor 1 0% Total Respondents 1875 (skipped this question)680 37.How often does your household use the Equestrian Center (including guests)? Response Total Response Percent Never (please skip to next amenity) Response equal to 69 1706 69% 1 - 5 times Response equal to 27 663 27% 6 - 10 times 60 2% Over 10 times 48 2% Total Respondents 2477 (skipped this question)78 38.Overall, how would you rate the customer service you have received at the Equestrian Center? Response Total Response Percent Excellent Response equal to 34 265 34% Good Response equal to 53 410 53% Average Response equal to 12 89 12% Poor 7 1% Very Poor 2 0% Total Respondents 773 (skipped this question)1782 39.How would you rate the special events held at the Equestrian Center (i.e. barbecue, wagon rides, etc.)? Response Total Response Percent Excellent Response equal to 23 113 23% Good Response equal to 60 301 60% Average Response equal to 17 85 17% Poor 3 1% Very Poor 0 0% Total Respondents 502 (skipped this question)2053 40.How would you rate riding camps and lessons taught at the Equestrian Center? Response Total Response Percent Excellent Response equal to 24 106 24% Good Response equal to 56 242 56% Average Response equal to 19 82 19% Poor 4 1% Very Poor 0 0% Total Respondents 434 (skipped this question)2121 41.How would you rate the facility as a whole? Response Total Response Percent Excellent Response equal to 26 195 26% Good Response equal to 60 448 60% Average Response equal to 12 90 12% Poor 8 1% Very Poor 0 0% Total Respondents 741 (skipped this question)1814 42.How often does your household use the Downhill Ski Area (including guests)? Response Total Response Percent Never (please skip to next amenity) Response equal to 33 817 33% 1 - 5 times Response equal to 42 1057 42% 6 - 10 times Response equal to 13 322 13% Over 10 times Response equal to 12 295 12% Total Respondents 2491 (skipped this question)64 43.Overall, how do you rate the customer service you have received at the Downhill Ski Area? Response Total Response Percent Excellent Response equal to 27 444 27% Good Response equal to 57 947 57% Average Response equal to 15 243 15% Poor 16 1% Very Poor 3 0% Total Respondents 1653 (skipped this question)902 44.How do you rate the competency of the Downhill Ski Area instructors? Response Total Response Percent Excellent Response equal to 30 362 30% Good Response equal to 54 651 54% Average Response equal to 15 183 15% Poor 9 1% Very Poor 2 0% Total Respondents 1207 (skipped this question)1348 45.If you have placed your children in Snowflakes Ski School, what is your overall opinion of the program? Response Total Response Percent Excellent Response equal to 35 284 35% Good Response equal to 47 377 47% Average Response equal to 16 126 16% Poor 22 3% Very Poor 1 0% Total Respondents 810 (skipped this question)1745 46.How do you rate the cafeteria at the Downhill Ski Area? Response Total Response Percent Excellent 68 5% Good Response equal to 36 495 36% Average Response equal to 47 653 47% Poor Response equal to 11 150 11% Very Poor 19 1% Total Respondents 1385 (skipped this question)1170 47.How do you rate the facility as a whole? Response Total Response Percent Excellent Response equal to 12 195 12% Good Response equal to 53 850 53% Average Response equal to 30 483 30% Poor 69 4% Very Poor 4 0% Total Respondents 1601 (skipped this question)954 48.How often does your household use Tahoe Donner Cross Country Center (including guests)? Response Total Response Percent Never (please skip to next amenity) Response equal to 58 1429 58% 1 - 5 times Response equal to 26 653 26% 6 - 10 times Response equal to 6 152 6% Over 10 times Response equal to 10 246 10% Total Respondents 2480 (skipped this question)75 49.Overall, how do you rate the customer service you have received at Tahoe Donner Cross Country Center? Response Total Response Percent Excellent Response equal to 46 482 46% Good Response equal to 46 478 46% Average Response equal to 7 75 7% Poor 6 1% Very Poor 1 0% Total Respondents 1042 (skipped this question)1513 50.How do you rate the competency of the Cross Country Center instructors? Response Total Response Percent Excellent Response equal to 43 317 43% Good Response equal to 49 367 49% Average Response equal to 8 58 8% Poor 0 0% Very Poor 1 0% Total Respondents 743 (skipped this question)1812 51.How do you rate the quality of food at Alder Creek Cafe? Response Total Response Percent Excellent Response equal to 23 190 23% Good Response equal to 49 397 49% Average Response equal to 26 210 26% Poor 16 2% Very Poor 1 0% Total Respondents 814 (skipped this question)1741 52.How would you rate the facility as a whole? Response Total Response Percent Excellent Response equal to 41 414 41% Good Response equal to 50 513 50% Average Response equal to 8 82 8% Poor 7 1% Very Poor 0 0% Total Respondents 1016 (skipped this question)1539 53.How often does your household utilize the Day Camp programs, including guests? Response Total Response Percent Never (please skip to last question) Response equal to 87 2109 87% 1 - 5 times Response equal to 10 254 10% 6 - 10 times 37 2% Over 10 times 23 1% Total Respondents 2423 (skipped this question)132 54.Overall, how would you rate the customer service you have received from the Day Camp staff? Response Total Response Percent Excellent Response equal to 35 113 35% Good Response equal to 52 167 52% Average Response equal to 11 36 11% Poor 1 0% Very Poor 3 1% Total Respondents 320 (skipped this question)2235 55.How would you rate the overall programming of the Day Camps? Response Total Response Percent Excellent Response equal to 32 102 32% Good Response equal to 54 168 54% Average Response equal to 12 38 12% Poor 4 1% Very Poor 2 1% Total Respondents 314 (skipped this question)2241 56. In 2005 the association's legal counsel advised the board of directors that a for-profit subsidiary of the association could be created. The venture, if created, would be structured such that all profits earned would be given to the association to be used for the purpose of offsetting future annual or special assessments. One should not, however, rule out the possibility that the venture could fail to meet expections, meaning that a loss could result in an assessment increase. At this time, two businesses seem to make the most sense: real estate sales and real estate management. The board of directors has heard from the realtor community, and now wants to hear from you. In the March 2006 edition of Tahoe Donner News, an article on the subject was written outlining the concept along with providing a "pro/con" perspective. Hopefully the article fulfilled its purpose by providing you with enough information to offer an informed opinion. An important disclosure that should be made, is that start up costs for the business, yet to be determined, will be funded by the association and, to date, just less than $2,500 has been spent on legal and tax advice to research the matter. You are now being asked to provide your opinion on the following question: Should Tahoe Donner Association move forward with its consideration of establishing a for-profit subsidiary with a specific focus on real estate sales and management? Response Total Response Percent No, I do not support the initiative - the association should not spend the time or effort to move in this direction. Response equal to 74 1690 74% Yes, I support the initiative to create a for-profit subsidiary of the association. Response equal to 26 587 26% Total Respondents 2277 (skipped this question)278 57. Through the years there has been opposing opinions in the community when it comes to dogs being kept on leashes when on common areas, streets, and other areas referred to as "other association-owned property" - often referred to as the 2,000 acres, of which a significant portion is represented by the association's Euer Valley property. The board of directors has been pressed from all directions with regard to this matter and wants to know what you think before it gives any further consideration to revision existing rules. The existing rules basically provide that dogs must be kept on a leash when on common areas and under voice control when on "other association-owned property." There are no restrictions currently established for dogs while being walked on the community's roadways, but there is a town-wide ordinance that requires dogs to be under voice control. Please give us your opinion. Yes No Response Total Should the existing rules be modified?44% (950) 56% (1203) 2153 Should a leash restriction be established fo rthe dogs when being walked on the community's roadways? This would require the association to approach the town about a community-specific ordinance. 73% (1009) 27% (375) 1384 Should a leash restriction be established for the association's other properties (2,000 acres), in addition to being leashed when in common areas? 52% (709) 48% (657) 1366 Total Respondents 4903 58. The Association is looking for your opinion on one final question. The board of directors is considering expanding the current facility at Trout Creek Recreation Center. Please visit the association's website link for more information on this interesting proposal. Estimated costs are between $1 - $1.5 million. Funding can be established with the proceeds from the sale of the 32-acres, which was sold two years ago. Should Tahoe Donner Association move forward with this plan? Response Total Response Percent No. I do not support moving forward with a plan to expand Trout Creek Recreation Center. Response equal to 53 1149 53% Yes. I support moving forward with a plan to expand Trout Creek Recreation Center. Response equal to 47 1037 47% Total Respondents 2186 (skipped this question)369 59.Please feel Free to Offer any comments regarding the association: View responses to this question View individual responses to this question Total Respondents 811 (skipped this question)1744 Tahoe Donner Association ©2006 2006 MEMBERSHIP DEMOGRAPHIC & CUSTOMER SERVICE SURVEY 59.Please feel Free to Offer any comments regarding the association:Full Response 1. We think it is important to provide updated and convenient amenities such as the Trout Creek gym facilities and the new lodge, and the marina picnic area and bldg. To carry out plans which will create a garish, Disney-type, noisy area at Trout Creek is to remove the serenity that characterizes a mountain community. We must remain respectful of our natural surroundings and create amenities in harmony with them. View complete survey for this response 2. I hope the lunch time food service continues at the Northwoods Pool/Rec Area. It would be nice if there were food service @ Trout Creek. As an alternative to expanding trout creek it would be nice if you upgraded /enhanced the play area next to northwoods pool. Thanks View complete survey for this response 3.I am a relatively new Tahoe Donner homeowner but am impressed so far with the work of the association! View complete survey for this response 4. The Board members are enthusiastic. However, their enthusiasm needs to be controlled. How does the Board expect to pay for its skatepark and Walleyworld @ Tahoe Donner? The Board needs to fix basic infrastructure before going off on its outlandish ideas. Fix the golf course so that it is profitable! Also, how many golfers are int he Truckee area? Do we need the golf course? Spend money wisely. I work very hard for my 10% reduction in pay. I expect better accountability of financial expenditures by the Board. This is not the U.S. government. The restaurant employees do not need to have meals at reduced or free. Perks like this I have never received working in a restaurant. Either the Board wakes up or it needs to be replaced!!! View complete survey for this response 5.No Skate board park at trout creek No water park View complete survey for this response 6. Why was the 3 million received from the sale of the 32 acres not used to offset the raise in association dues? It is a shame that the board sold the 32 acres rather than making it an area for use by the membership. The destruction of the number of trees by the developers is a sad sight. As to the quality of life for Tahoe Donner, their new development will add to the noise, traffic and overall quality of living here. View complete survey for this response 7.Your spending policies are forcing fixed income owners out of the area.View complete survey for this response 8.Staff at Trout Creek always seem to be not busy, and there are too many staff just wasting time and idling. View complete survey for this response 9.Too much empire building going on!View complete survey for this response 10. The TD Downhill area is a great family place to ski. We need to expand the restaurant and have better food and better selections. Another ski lift would also be nice! View complete survey for this response 11. Please stick to association business. Do not venture outside the parameters of the by-laws. Work toward more efficient operations, and while maintaining the great amenities we already have in a top notch level. View complete survey for this response 12. This association shall not, hopefully, get involved in any "for profit" business. They can hardly run the association as is. It seems that the H.O.A. is being run for the benefit of the employees, not the homeowners. I am not interested in funding a start up real estate venture and then paying for the losses for god knows how long. View complete survey for this response 13. a) can't believe you didn't ask any questions about the "Lodge" and restaurant. Love to know how it's doing and if my dues are going towards supporting it. b) a homeowners' association should manage homeowners' issues and the development. The association has already shown it is inept at real estate sales. c) was a perfect opportunity to ask a few questions about mail "service" View complete survey for this response 14. Trout Creek is used very poorly used. Management is very bad. There is space for many youth activities. The present picnic area is not used very much - don't enlarge that is not used. View complete survey for this response 15. The new lodge has been a welcome addition to our community. The restaurant is excellent with fine service. Our only regret is that there are no locker rooms for golf, and the inconvenient location of the restrooms and snack bar at the 9th-10th turn. We much appreciate the fine work being done by Greg on upgrading the golf course. It is impressive to see the improvements already made on a limited budget. The forward tees have made the course much friendlier to our ladies and elderly members View complete survey for this response 16. Stop giving away the revenues taken in at the Lodge. Employees should get 0% discount. Other assoc's and company's do not do this. It is rediculous! Give employee's meals - specific at two different times of day. Employee can get 1 one meal (AM/orPM) on shift. Suggestion: Pasta & Bread, Egg Scramble View complete survey for this response 17. I think adding a water park area is great. The addition of at least 3-4 bocce courts with picnic/bbq area will draw people of all ages. Food concession at Trout Creek Rec area needed in summer months. View complete survey for this response 18. Stop spending excess amts of $. Stop giving special benefits to employees at the expense of homeowners. Stop putting children ahead of adults. Noisy children in lodge dining should be excused. Stop allowing mother-in-law units. That was never oked until recently. View complete survey for this response 19.Please build a raquetball court ASAP! We need it. Thanks.View complete survey for this response 20. The association needs another convenient road into and out of Tahoe Donner. Besides Alder Creek. Need more parking at marina or some sort of bus system to and from Tahoe Donner. For profit comment: 1. You had a perfect opportunity to joint venture the development of the 32 acres for a whole lot more money than 3.2 million. 2. R.E. sales - too risky vs reward, not something the assoc. should be involved in. 3. R.E. rentals & leases - maybe. View complete survey for this response 21.Since I spend so little time at Tahoe Donner, I feel that an annual assessment should be changed so that part-time owners could pay less or other form reduced payment. View complete survey for this response 22. You didn't ask questions about the new "Lodge" restaurant. My wife and I enjoy our dinners there, but we thought a place that was called "The Lodge" would have had more old Tahoe character. There are no pictures of old time Truckee or Tahoe. Also something should be done about the noise level in the bar area. The acoustics are terrible in there once more than a few people are in there. Also your new downhill ski web camera really sucks. View complete survey for this response 23. We have used T/D less the past 6-7 years because of cost and golf tee times. It favors full time residents and part time families suffer because of the rules and cost. We were promised 8-9 full memberships when we purchased the site. Your full time or year round members benefit for use and $ spent/ View complete survey for this response 24. 1) Open space is becoming more and more of a treasure in Tahoe Donner. As the owner of a second lot kept solely for the value of open space, I feel it is time to reward and encourage owners of open space lots with an adjustment of the assessment fees on the second property; if they require no amenity cards for that property. 2) I cannot understand why an association of homeowners operates a campground at a loss each year. I hope you will respond to each of these issues. View complete survey for this response 25. For some areas, such as Alder Creek campground, Equestrian Center, and Downhill Ski Area, you denied membership input if they did not use the amenity. It probably would have been helpful if you determined why the memberhsip did not use these facilities. View complete survey for this response 26. -why were the utilities not put underground when natural gas was put in!!?? -TDA should purchase the Forest Service property that is up for auction. -The Tahoe Donner area needs to reduce its vegetation by 50% - way too much fuel out there - it's going to be ugly ..... View complete survey for this response 27.Thank you for asking my opinions. We have another second home in Tahoe but we end up always coming to Tahoe Donner due to the amenities. Thank you for keeping them up to A1 class. View complete survey for this response 28.How come there is no review of the Lodge? This is one item that needs review.View complete survey for this response 29. We think that instead of a web survey that you had a month or so ago, it should have been mailed directly to members as this was not just left to a chance finding. There was far too much money in assessments discussed in it. There should definitely be some kind of member action needed, not just a board decision on most of thos matters. View complete survey for this response 30. Focus on preservation of the existing facilities, not expanding them to appeal to the "under- served". The people that don't like the existing amenities can stay in the bay area on their weekends while we enjoy peace and quiet in the mountains. Costs continue to rise so forming a for-profit subsidiary seems to make sense especially if the efforts lead to controlling our dues and maintaining our existing facilities and properties. View complete survey for this response 31.I love Tahoe Donner! It is a beautiful place and well managed.View complete survey for this response 32. I have found the young people working the desk at trout creek to be disinterested in helping customers. They lack good customer relation skills. The lift ops at the skihill from foreign countries are great. Always very friendly - helpful with the kids. Dogs should be leashed on the streets and pathways, but allowed to roam free on wilderness areas. View complete survey for this response 33. Other members of our famiy use the cross country ski area extensively. They say maintenance, especially grooming, is much poorer this year. We really enjoy your improvement & extension of your trail system, especially whre it is handy to our place. View complete survey for this response 34.#1 priority is undergrounding of utilities View complete survey for this response 35.The locker rooms at the weight/cardio area should be for 18 & over. The locker rooms by the pool areas should be for family. Provide racketball & basketball/volleyball courts indoor. View complete survey for this response 36.Expand the down hill ski area i.e. North Star.View complete survey for this response 37. I would like to see childcare available for the trout creek rec center. I would also like to see some children's classes at trout creek i.e. ballet, martial arts, drama, gymnastics. View complete survey for this response 38.Tahoe Donner needs to offer a more cost-effective plan for day care, kids camps, craft nights, etc.View complete survey for this response 39.No further sales of any TD land, EVER! The 32 acre sale was a debacle, never to be repeated. Sell NOT ONE single inch of our association's land! Thanks. View complete survey for this response 40.Forget about the assessment for taking power lines underground.View complete survey for this response 41. I support all amenities in TD even though I do not use all of them. However for property values I believe the golf course is #1 - a better ski area #2 and the marina is #3 (for improvements). I believe Trout Creek is great as it is, and the new restaurant complex is outstanding. I have owned houses in TD since 1982 - the area has never looked better. View complete survey for this response 42.The Tennis Center has gone downhill since you lost Greg Cosgrove. You should make an effort to get him back. View complete survey for this response 43.I looked all over the tahoedonner.com website and couldn't find any reference to this. I'd be inclined to support any improvement the association can afford. View complete survey for this response 44.The Board needs to focus on cash conservation. There is a need to maintain what we have and exercise FISCAL responsibility. View complete survey for this response 45.As far as the leash laws go: depends on the nature of the dog. mean dogs need to be leashed at all times. View complete survey for this response 46. 4-3-06 (408)378-3732. On Feb. 11, 2006, Harry W. Colby passed away. On May 11, 1995, Harriet Colby passed away. Please note there is a Colby Family LLC in place at this time. All correspondence should be addressed to : Colby Family LLC 946 N. Central Ave Campbell, CA 95008 View complete survey for this response 47.Emphatic "NO" on Real Estate venture View complete survey for this response 48.There are expansions to Trout Creek that we would support. However, we cannot support the current proposal - especially the skateboard part & water park features. View complete survey for this response 49. Why has the administrative costs gone up so much over the past 7 years, actually doubled. Where is the money going? We dont want this to become like northstar. We like Tahoe Donner the way it is. Lets stop spending our hard earned money and start saving it so we have reserve money aside for emergencies. View complete survey for this response 50.Complete the Golf Course Project NOW!!View complete survey for this response 51. I have owned dogs all my life, and currently have two. Although they are very well trained, voice control is not very reliable. Tahoe Donner is to be an area of comfort, relaxation and no infringement of space. Dogs do not provide this, even to dog lovers. Either dogs have rights (to bother other people) that homeowners don't have, or they are always on leash except for on their property. It can't be any other way. If dog owners can't comply, keep the dogs at home, where they can't bother anyone. I mean, who counts here? View complete survey for this response 52. As to the average ratings on the Golf Course questions. They are due to the length of play averaging about 5 hours per round. Ratings would improve if the course "enforced" pace of play. The amenities are fine as they are. The restaurant is great, but very small. View complete survey for this response 53.Thanks for providing the opportunity to weigh in on these questions. We are new property owners and I lack sufficient knowledge to provide informed advice. View complete survey for this response 54. We really miss the Northwoods Clubhouse restaurant. Families don't/won't spend $ to go to the lodge - this leaves members no choice but to go down into Truckee - make a good family style restaurant. Also, you shouldn't charge members to go sledding - come on! View complete survey for this response 55. Trout Creek needs more elliptical machines. If you created a leash law, we would sell our house! View complete survey for this response 56. I am a dog owner who has taken to heart the reality that dog poop pollutes. I have been carefully picking up. (I know I dont get it all because I hike with the dog off leash). I dont see anyone else w/ plastic bags and i pass a lot of poop. We need to further public awareness with information, signage, poop bag dispensers. I just bought another lot and it is COVERED with poop. We need to change the local mindset about this. View complete survey for this response 57. In regards to the leash laws, I have some strong opinions. I have had Bernese Mountain dogs for over fifteen years. i put alot of time and money into training them. I have always walked them on the roadways, in the woods and on trails. I always walk them on leashes. I have spent much time with obedience trainers that have always taught me that you can never guarentee a dos is "voice controlled". I could tell you my dogs follow all my commands, but a dog can not be predicted to always listen when other people or new dogs are introduced to them. I have had my dogs bitten or come close to bad situations with other dogs that could be harmful because the other dog is not leashed & the owners replies that they do not have to leash up because they are in "the mountains". View complete survey for this response 58.I dont feel that the Association should be in competition with existing business unless there is a lack of service available that is needed by its members. View complete survey for this response 59.Updating and maintaining all the amenities is very important View complete survey for this response 60.I suggest that we upgrade the entry signs to Tahoe Donner. They are outdated!View complete survey for this response 61.The dues now are so high, we are selling & moving to Truckee instead. We don't use the facilities/amenities enough to warrant the dues & assessments. View complete survey for this response 62. The proposal "for profit" is a bad idea. The downside is far greater than the upside - $200 savings on association fees is a non-event compared to say, the gas bill. The association should stick with what they do well and stay out of the profit/loss area. View complete survey for this response 63.Need to provide membership cards for all children in a family. We have 3 children. Who does not get a card? My family belongs to the association, not just 2 adults and 2 children. View complete survey for this response 64.I would love to see the ski hill facilities expanded. Add more lifts on the hill next to T/D. This would keep more families at T/D for skiing. Once people learn to ski, they leave our facility. View complete survey for this response 65.The real dog problem is dogs wandering or more so sitting in their driveway waiting for someone to walk by. View complete survey for this response 66. We think there should be a change in the way the recreation fee is charged. As a couple with no children at home we would support some kind of reduced fee card good for some number of visits by the homeowner and /or houseguests and then a perday charge after those are used. View complete survey for this response 67.Don't sell any more additional open space property owned by Tahoe Donner!View complete survey for this response 68. 1. Don't turn TD into the suburbs we came up here to get away from. 2. Don't build entertainment centers - we want peace, quiet, clean air, water, trees, birds, mountains. 3. Golf course and X country skiing facilities are great, the rest need professional consultants to improve them as amenities. 4. We're happy to support amenities we don't use - it's one of the things that makes TD great. 69.1. We like the idea of undergrounding. 2. Pay more attention to removing beatle infested trees so the beatles dont ruin more trees. View complete survey for this response 70. I think T.D.A. getting involved with real estate could become a very contraversial situation. I admit up front that I do work at the golf course. However, I think a further look into the price adjustment for recreation fees should be done. One foursome of golfers for one round of golf is the same as four property owners on one lot pays for unlimited use of Trout Creek, Tennis Center, Marina combined. View complete survey for this response 71.Thank you for taking the time to prepare this survey!View complete survey for this response 72. The "for-profit" subsidiary is a natural for Tahoe Donner, and should be pursued. Other possible ventures could include: Security service (monitoring vacant homes), Concierge service (stocking second homes with groceries before owners arrive), Snow removal and Light maintenance. I hope the Board will consider a variety of ideas. View complete survey for this response 73. I was disappointed with the recent figures reported by the study to underground our electric utilities. I attended the meeting to report the results. I suspect the high figures represent what the utility companies want to charge rather than what competitive private bids would cost - and the difference would be substantial. A brief further study of alternative sources for the work is reasonable. View complete survey for this response 74.Architectural review costs are too high Lodge is nice. View complete survey for this response 75. Since we are not allowed to fence our backyard, I've found that dogs are left alone to take a poop where ever they wish. Especially our backyard. I've fond that I cannot just walk to my backyard without stepping on poop or cleaning it up. What can be done about this? View complete survey for this response 76.Trout Creek was already expanded! Why would we do this again? Also, let's close the Northwoods Clubhouse bar and food service. View complete survey for this response 77.I support using the proceeds from selling 32 acres to fund part of underground utility.View complete survey for this response 78. Construction site radios - Should be banned. If residents can hear it, it's too loud. Construction workers impact homeowners. How unfair we listen to their music or have to "tattle". View complete survey for this response 79. We loved the temporary food & bar option at Northwoods - especially for the summer months. What about "paid" childcare at ski areas & Trout Creek for workouts (try it out on weekends only first). Instead of upgrading Trout Creek...what about upgrading the lower quality facilities? Love the idea of a water park for kids. Why not put the money into Northwoods to make that clubhouse/facility better...improved pool area, playground, casual food options, ping pong & pool tables, better bar, etc. But, have we looked at improving the downhill facilities, upgrade food, bar, lockers, bathrooms, etc. or Northwoods facilities? View complete survey for this response 80.Please post survey results on web!View complete survey for this response 81.We are dissapointed in The Lodge restaurant - would like more casual- simple menu. we eat out often- never at the lodge- tried it a couple of times. View complete survey for this response 82. We bought property in Tahoe Donner because it was a nice moderately priced community. It sits in the awesome Sierra Nevada mountains. People who want urban amenities should seek them out in urban areas. Many of us who make TD our home are retired and on fixed incomes. We are concerned about increasing POA dues so that city people can have their city amenities. Thank you for the opportunity to voice our concerns. View complete survey for this response 83.No real estate office !!! No underground utilities !!! Keep the non-profit status.View complete survey for this response 84. I am concerned about continued increases in association dues. A few years ago, when we went through the master planning and budgeting process, we were told that funding would be sufficient to meet ongoing needs. I.We are concerned about cost control and effective management. In that regard, we do not see entering a new venture (real estate sales and management) as a solution to the problem View complete survey for this response 85. I received your Annual Budget and it sure seems like a great deal of funds are spent w/o much reutnr. You need a tighter overall fiscal policy!!! View complete survey for this response 86.Can we get a 50m pool at trout?View complete survey for this response 87.Improve the ski lodge View complete survey for this response 88. I would encourage the Directors of the association to maintain control of growth and expansion efforts and emphasize maintenance and upkeep of the existing structures and amenities. Please keep the family oriented small-town and natural feel of Tahoe Donner. View complete survey for this response 89.I do not support undergrounding. It is ridiculously expensive for problematic investment return.View complete survey for this response 90.Overall, well managed, well run, and well supervised by the board!View complete survey for this response 91.#58. The website link gave insufficient information necessary to form an opinion.View complete survey for this response 92. Adult only spas are not monitored for kids. The friendliest most helpful customer service workers are at the Cross Country center. Everyone else could definitely be more friendly / helpful and smile more. View complete survey for this response 93.Why don't you ask about customer service with Administration? Member Services? How about The Lodge? Board of Directors?? View complete survey for this response 94. Regarding placing utilities underground: This is a stupid idea. The costs will be incredibly high. The electric distribution system (ie, transformer, primary enclosures, secondry enclosures) will be covered by snow 6 months of the year leading to nothing but maintenance problems. View complete survey for this response 95. Leash control or not, where...: I have a dog. I love my dog and dogs in general. But, there is a real problem with dogs loose in Tahoe Donner. I have encountered a number of aggressive/threatening/protective/territorial dogs. I'm not sure people understand that this is a real liability issue. No matter what rules you impose, not everyone will control their dogs, but if you require dogs to be leashed, you will decrease the number of dogs running loose. View complete survey for this response 96.This is a great format!View complete survey for this response 97. I am my family have used all of the amenities over the years including the day camps. I feel the association has spent enought on indoor tyep rec facilities. The reason we all come to tahoe donner is too be aawy from man made traffic. The trail system is great the cross country facility is nice. Even though I work out all the time I dont agree with providing a full service health club tho the 10% owner occupied & friends for use. View complete survey for this response 98. I suggest the association look into water meters in an effort to be fair to non-residents of Tahoe Donner. The flat fee currently paid for water is unfair to property owners using their properties only a few times a year. View complete survey for this response 99.Please stop inventing new reasons to spend money that keep the annual fees to increase!View complete survey for this response 100.* Rec center - Trout Creek gym too crowded at peak times. * Increase family size to family household. View complete survey for this response 101. T.D. needs to stop squandering large sums of money on the golf course. The membership voted against spending money on the golf course yet the board of directors went ahead and spend money and continues to do so. The membership voted narrowly to replce the golf clubhouse with a new one, yet within several months later the projected cost of the new one was $1 million more than the cost voted upon. The latest financial foondogle is the issue of placing overhead wires underground. This is preposterous! The costs are prohibitive. It's time to rein in this spending spree by the directors and manager. View complete survey for this response 102. There comes a point in time where it is not feasible to keep financing various amentities. It seems logical to replace existing equipment when needed, but to continuously expand is beyond what is needed. Trout Creek is very seldom full to capacity and to expand so no one ever has to wait for a peice of equipment is a waste of assoc. capital. View complete survey for this response 103. In general, I think the leash rules are okay, but there are numerous irresponsible people w/dogs that are not voice controlled that refuse to leash their pets. Unfortunately, you cannot make a rule against stupidity. You didn't ask about the trail system. Our household uses the trails EXTENSIVELY & we LOVE, LOVE, LOVE them - Best amenity in TD. Would support more $$$$ for trail maintenace & construction. Connections w/Donner Lake Trail and EUER Valley trails are encouraged by this hiking & mountain biking family. Also, Class I bike trail to Town Center and Safeway as a priority would be greatly encouraged. The For-Profit subsidiary should also consider a daycare center, perhaps as a secondary use in a Trout Creek expansion. Not just a drop your kid off to work out daycare, but for full-time working parents of locals. Don't forget about us locals!! View complete survey for this response 104.The underground utility proposal is ridiculous!View complete survey for this response 105.Quit spending $.View complete survey for this response 106.It would be good to have more weekend fitness and yoga classes. Most of the 'better' classes and events are on weekdays. View complete survey for this response 107. Just because I don't frequently use the X-C or equestrian or tennis facilities or the kid-specific snowplay or northwoods playground doesn't mean i don't support them. The equestrian, ski area, X-C, tennis and kid-specific operations are valuable assets. 108.Improve practice area to include pitching practice & sand traps.View complete survey for this response 109. This survey is a typical T.D. Assn joke. We voted against further improvements to the golf course and your're doing it anyway. Large dogs wander at will throughout the development. It does no good to call animal control, they are totally non-responsive!!! Some day when a 50 lb. dog kills a 40 lb. child people will finally demand action! P.S. I'm a dog lover. I hope you didn't spend a lot of our money on yet another survey which will result in the board doing exactly what it wants anyway! View complete survey for this response 110. The Lodge has excellent food. On par w/ Dragonfly and moody's. However, I think the menu should be amended to include more of a "bar" selection. That way I could take my family out to eat for $50 instead of the $100-$150 I usually spend. View complete survey for this response 111. It would be nice if there were reduced prices for drinks, wine, beer, food, etc. at the Lodge for OWNERS & THEIR GUESTS (who are there with them at the time) mayber for sunday-Thursday and non-holidays. If they want it filled up or utilized, give a break to owners, especially those who are full-time and might go during the week if not so expensive. Note: The 3 times we have been there, we have felt like the dinner staff (including host/hostess) have been a bit snobby (not the bar staff). The place needs to be more user friendly. View complete survey for this response 112.I think the Assoc. is trying to eliminate those of us who live here year-round and are on fixed incomes. Welcome to "South Lake" Truckee! View complete survey for this response 113. In the over 32 years I have owned property n Tahoe Donner I have seen it grow from a few weekend cabins to a large subdivision with huge houses. Overall I think the board has done OK. They should try harder to keep cost down as they did many years ago. The only other thing that I could never understand was selling the 32 acres for such a small amount. If you wanted to do something for profit you could have sub-divided the property and sold off lots at a lot more. View complete survey for this response 114. As long as volleyball is eliminated from the Marina Beach AND all parcels have a mailbox within the subdivision, otherwise no to expanding trout creek. TDA has great employees! need a mail box for each parcel ASAP! View complete survey for this response 115.Food at Lodge is too upscale and expensive. Should be family and budget friendly. We do not need another Moody's. View complete survey for this response 116. Each amenity enhances the value of all tahoe Donner property. Those anti-golfers might recognize this fact and the fact that golf produces more income than any other amenity. Letters I have read - to many - seem to warrant not to use association monies to support & maintain the golf course. All facilities need to be kept up and enhanced when needed to maximize the benefits it generates - both income & enjoyment - albeit to some & not all. I may not ski or ride hourses but I support the need to continue maintaining these facilities. View complete survey for this response 117.Put the money that would go into Trout Creek facility, instead into the Down Hill sky facility - it needes to be upgraded. View complete survey for this response 118.Have visited the lodge 7 times. Food and Service have been excellent.View complete survey for this response 119. Stop selling land! You should have kept the 32 acres as open space! Now it is gone forever! Get nicer people at Trout Creek! Otherwise, all is good for our family at Tahoe Donner. Oh Yes, and definitely underground those ugly telephone, electricity wires! Thanks! View complete survey for this response 120. Please keep additional costs down to a minimum. I was ok with the special assessment a few years back, but please do not continue to look to me for funds. It is a great planned unit community. Thank you. View complete survey for this response 121.I'm in favor of undergrounding electrical wires.View complete survey for this response 122.Profit is good!!View complete survey for this response 123.Please make it a law for dog owners to clean after their pets. Dog fecies have no place on our streets. View complete survey for this response 124.The new restaurant the lodge is fine but seems to be children unfriendly. hope they keep the northwoods facility open for lighter fare for the children. View complete survey for this response 125. How about purchasing property on Lake Tahoe between kings beach and homewood for a 2nd marina? Facility could be much like the donner lake facility and should include a boat ramp. The value to the assoc. for the future would be oustanding. View complete survey for this response 126. This for profit real estate sales idea is the single worst idea I have heard from the management. No where in the proposal did I read anything that made me think your management has any idea what it is getting into. This represents a serious breach of the board and the management's responsibilities towards the members. I suggest you back off of this quickly!! View complete survey for this response 127. Expanding Trout Creek - The web page only shows the design not the funding source if the project exceeds the income from the 32 acres. I support moving forward if it DOES NOT result in increased fees for homeowners or recreation fees. View complete survey for this response 128. Regarding the Cross Country Center - Only use this area for snow-shoeing, it is not right to charge a daily use for this because snowshoers do not use the trails on any facilities provided. WE should be able to use the forest lawn in winter as well as summer. No charge for summer use. I want to thank the Association in general and the board of directors in particular for their hard work and genuine concern for the people of Tahoe Donner. Please consider "fixed income" residents when planning changes, assessments, fees, etc. I am seeing more CCR violations when it comes to vehicle parking and resident upkeep. Thank you, D. Eller, Pinnacle Loop View complete survey for this response 129. Has the association ever consider placing large recycler containers at either the lodge or the information center/office so that members can drop off recycling of cans/plastics/paper instead of adding to the garbage. This can be done with min cost since Truckee recycler can place the large containers at min cost to the Association and would be a benefit to the members and community. View complete survey for this response 130.I am in favor of undergrounding electrical based on information that is available at present.View complete survey for this response 131.Thanks for this and other surveys you have conducted. Keep doing this.View complete survey for this response 132. My comments on the cross country ski and the downhill ski areas are based on my usage 4 to 5 years ago. We have not used them since. I feel that the tennis center should charge per use fees as the golf course does and not be included in the amenities fee. View complete survey for this response 133.Thanks for allowing our voices to be heard.View complete survey for this response 134. The Tahoe Donner Ski area would most likely benefit with harder & more runs for more advanced skiers. Our 8 & 10 yr old are not challenged there, but our 3yr old is perfect there for the next several years. View complete survey for this response 135. One of the main reasons we purchased a condo at Tahoe Donner Ski Bowl Condo's was because of its views and no utilities blocking our views. We reside in San Francisco and use our condo and all of TD amenities frequently. After purchasing our condo in 2001, we were surprised that Tahoe Donner had not have its utilities underground. Fast forward. WE DO NOT FEEL WE SHOULD BE ASSESSED FOR SOMETHING WE ALREADY HAVE!! View complete survey for this response 136.We support the expansion of Trout Creek, but we do not support the skatepark or water park as they do not fit into the natural environment. They fit better in a theme park! View complete survey for this response 137.I have had several scary experiences with growling dogs while out with my young children. We love dogs. View complete survey for this response 138.An ice-skating rink (full-size) would be a terrific addition to the winter rec center.View complete survey for this response 139.But, snack stand yes - do we need a cafeteria/cafe? do we need a water slide area?View complete survey for this response 140. Why should the majority of property owners subsidize a minority of the property owners who use the golf course? How come when the membership votes something down does the board spend money on it anyway? View complete survey for this response 141.I am curious to hear more info on the proposed undergrounding of utilities View complete survey for this response 142. One minor gripe about summer amenity access - it makes no sense that we'd be able to get into the "expensive" pool after paying our fee that day at the Beach club, but have to pay extra to get into the little Northwoods pool. View complete survey for this response 143. To my family, Tahoe Donner is a mountain activity place - a place to connect with nature. We don't need to bring the city to Tahoe Donner. I am open to the idea of picnic tables near Trout Creek, but a skateboard ramp, No. There is one in Truckee. Insurance would have to be increased. Doesn't a horseshoe court already exist? How many people play bacci ball? or hand ball? Our family owns two dogs. Both are well trained. The yellow lab is allowed to be "off leash" in Bay area parks if no other dogs are around. I think the town's law is sufficient. View complete survey for this response 144. Too expensive if homeowners need to make up cost difference! Too many aggressive dogs not on leashes. Ready to attack. (2 dogs, never on a leash: corner of mattahorn & chalet. ) Very difficult to walk dogs with children and feel safe. Enjoyed completing survey. Thank you for asking us for our opinions and allowing our concerns to be heard. View complete survey for this response 145. We really hope that more effort goes into improving the Equestrian Center. We would like to see better horses and partial summer lease option for those of us who don't own horses but like to ride. The past director was not competent in purchasing horses or running the staff. In order to make it a more successful program, the center needs more resources and needs to cater more to the middle market - i.e. those who want to ride more then 1-3 times a summer and who want to improve their riding & take out horses on their own. Currently the offerings for this group are pretty minimal - everything either cater to the movice or those individuals who bring up & board their own horses. 146. Trout Creek: Family hot tub needs more supervision from lifeguards- too many kids have no adults with them. Equestrian: Pony rides are way too expensive (much cheaper at Squaw and Alpine). View complete survey for this response 147. You must enforce leash and tresspassing violations. I am appalled at the tresspassing that occurs on our property, especially by neighbors who are full time TD residents. You must enforce tresspassing laws. We do not want people on our property! If I am sued by a tresspasser injured on my property, I will countersue the association! View complete survey for this response 148. Truckee is growing and other places offer great service and amenities - we need to be competitive - yes, expand Trout Creek. We need a children's play area like old Greenwood. We are losing buyers to Squaw/Sugar Bowl/Old Greenwood. We also need better customer service. The employees need training in how to give great customer service. We love living here part time, but see areas that could be improved. We strongly believe we need to update and improve amenities to stay competitive. Thanks for asking. View complete survey for this response 149. Although I support the for profit subsidiary, I have the following questions: 1. A real estate sales office would require a licensed real estate broker. What would be the incentive for this broker? High salary? Would real estate agents be paid commissions? If so, how much (competitive?) 2. Would profits from the new venture go to Tahoe Donner Assoc. pre-tax or post tax? View complete survey for this response 150. I feel that I'm being discrimated (I'm single, divorced) against, re: recreation dues. I pay the same as a family of four & am not allowed to put anyone but family members (mostly whom live 3000 miles away) on my rec. pass. I'm paying twice the H.O. association fees as well - to sell my lot next door would be the ruin of my house if it is built on - no sun, space, etc. - deer & children use as by way - no open space left al all! I'm an artist on a low income & would like to say in Tahoe Donner. P.S. Can't sell lots or house anyway - former husband would not allow - need his signature & he contributes no $$. View complete survey for this response 151. I am not opposed to spending $ on Trout Creek but when I already find it difficult to get a treadmill, I'm not that excited with the expansion - however my 5 year old is. We failed to expand Trout Creek fitness area adequately - see comments. I am very concerned about retaining good employees - the association needs to address adequate compensation. View complete survey for this response 152.I think money should be spent to improve/enlarge the lodge at the downhill ski area. It is way to crowed on busy weekends. View complete survey for this response 153.Leash requirements would also protest the dog. We has a very unfortunate accident because the View complete survey for this response dog was not on a leash. Additionally walking the roads around our home can be questionably unenjoyable because of loose dogs. And I'm tired of cleaning poop out of our scrubs, etc. 154. 1. Expansion of Trout Creek center should be done, especially the weight room. 2. Golf course should be upgraded as much as possible. It is in our opinion the "crown jewel" of TD and greatly adds to our property values. 3. The Lodge is a wonderful facility, the food is great and Tommy is doing a superlative job. View complete survey for this response 155. Comment on Snowflake Ski school- Generally a very well run, good program. A few years ago one grandson took a lesson from a "tough-love" drill-sergeant type person - consequently he has never been willing to ski again. I have since taught to board and he enjoys the down hill ski area (He is now 12). View complete survey for this response 156. 1. I think that the expenditures on golf are a bit higher than necessary. I am not a golfer, but I recognize that the course adds to property values. However, with the new club house, enough is enough! 2. As noted inside, the Paramont equipment in the weight room was a huge disappointment. I would be interested to hear who made this selection, and why. My e-mail address is: jerand@pacbell.net View complete survey for this response 157. The amenity cards are still a sensitive issue. We are paying our homeowners fee and get 4 cards. We feel that any of our 3 children should be able to use the cards and not be restricted to just 2. The 4 cards should be used as we need to -whether it be family or guests. View complete survey for this response 158. We enjoy our TD home very much, but use the facilities very little. That may change in 3-5 years when our grandchildren are old enough to swim, ski, etc. I appreciate the Board reaching out to the home owners. We have owner for three years and I assume the sale of the 32 acres was done with little or no input from home owners. It appears that was a poor Board decision. View complete survey for this response 159. We use trout creek and the open space trails regularly. Though we dont use the other amenities we are supportive of their upkeep and reasonable improvements, as they contribute to the quality of life at TD. View complete survey for this response 160.Trout Creek Expansion - yes, but limited. Horseshoe, Bacci ball & Volllyball & BBQ area. NO water area or skateboard. View complete survey for this response 161. We are tired of spending money on new amenities. The Tahoe Donner facility is fine as is. When dog owners walk their dogs we would greatly appreciate it if they owuld clean up after their dogs. I get tired of cleaning up after other peoples pets. View complete survey for this response 162. Regarding dogs: The association should move forward in creating a fenced dog park so dogs would have the freedom to run & play. It has been very successful in the bay area. We are totally against the creation of a skateboard park regardless of the material used. Liability as well as darwing "skater" type kids is not something that would enhance our area. View complete survey for this response 163.I would rather have a smaller just adults lap & spa pools built elsewhere. No children allowed.View complete survey for this response 164.We miss the "old dining" - now were stuck w/Tahoe Donner Golf Club for dinner.View complete survey for this response 165. You have to fun a way to limit or cap annual fees- it is becoming very expensive to keep a house at TD and pay annual fees! For those of those who use few of the ammenities maybe a reduced fee could be considered once one reaches a certain age (no kids/few guests)? View complete survey for this response 166. Home owners should have the right to designate any four persons whether family or not to have use to Tahoe Donner facilities. There should be no fees charged for usage of facilities of the 4 persons that were designated to use the facilities. We all pay for it in our homeowner assessments. View complete survey for this response 167. I have always been neutral about association leadership, but not now! I am concerned that you are either incometant, stupid and/or just have too much time on your hands. Is your immediate removal possible? I am a business owner and a business consultant. Rule #1 stay at your core competencies that bring you success. Business History is filled with successful companies that though they could expand into service and products they knew nothing about and failed. I have lest confidence in your leadership please resign. Before you do please change the tahoe donner welcome sign it is old. for inspiration see coyote moon's or development accross the street. View complete survey for this response 168. Let's cool our heels a bit and see what happens to the sconomy as a whole. TD at the present moment looks pretty good. Trout Creek is up and running - the golf course is being brought up to date (against the wish of the vote by the way) but I can see the logic in maintaining the course. We have the Euer Valley property to increase open space. By the way - the golf course was the premier amenity in the 70's & 80's but I strongly feel times have changed & the cross country & open space are more the premier item for Tahoe Donner. View complete survey for this response 169.Get in control and STOP THE SPENDING $$.View complete survey for this response 170.The new clubhouse and restaurant are very good.View complete survey for this response 171.We should follow the Town of Truckee leash law.View complete survey for this response 172.we do not support the undergroung wire proposal!!!View complete survey for this response 173. Overall, we are very happy with our home purchase and the TD amenities. The gym (cardio center) seems less than adequate in size and pieces of equipment . We would love to see a reinstaffing of Northwoods Clubhouse for 4-7 p.m. hours as parents/kids are using facilities wihtout food and bev service. "Spin" machines in locker rooms(both)would be a great investment - as well as "bag" receptacle for "bagging" wet swimsuits. View complete survey for this response 174. The association must keep in mind that there are many local, fulltime families that have settled into the Tahoe Donner community. The continued increase in yearly fees & forcing extra fee's onto these people will drive them out of the community. Having to pay for underground utilities is unaffordable to many. Not all who live here are wealthy & diversity is important. The association needs to keep yearly fee's down to keep this community accessable to all. View complete survey for this response 175. We own two parcels in TD, one vacant. We severely criticise the Board for over-spending on the golf course dispute, and in contradiction of, the express majority vote of association members. unforgivable! View complete survey for this response 176. Please do not go forward with the plan to put the utilities underground. It's too expensive for what we get. It's been fine since we bought our property in 1981 and the high cost is just too much. What we get for 25-45 thousand dollars isn't worth it. It's beautiful in Tahoe Donner and spending that much money won't make enough difference. It's just too much money for what we get. I hope you don't go forward with this. View complete survey for this response 177.stop changing the golf course!!!!!!!View complete survey for this response 178.The Association does a great job!View complete survey for this response 179.We feel that it is a poor decision to close the family club house, for locals and visitors. Also, leave the power linea alone!! People will move out of this area!! View complete survey for this response 180. Please: Don't even begin to think about expanding the downhill ski area The idea of putting all the electrical lines underground and a VERY BAD IDEA!! We have a "world class" cross country ski area; and I really mean world class spend the money there and on our trail system. View complete survey for this response 181. I'm curious to learn why, after we spent serious $ to buy the Euer Valley property, that there is no summer access to the northern side of the valley. Also, why are Euer horse tours allowed to use and destroy our single track trails. View complete survey for this response 182.you should allow fences in the backyards- that would help dog problem.View complete survey for this response 183.Dogs are pooping all over the place and owners just walk them away from their homes to let their dogs poop on other owner's lots. View complete survey for this response 184. 1. We should cooperate with the Town of Truckee to construct a paved pedestrian.bike path to link Tahoe Donner (from clubhouse area) to Truckee. It would be preferable to link the path to the downtown area with other paved paths connecting other neighborhoods intersecting at the same location. This would give residents the option of walking/biking to town (other than on Northwoods, sharing the road with cars) & reduce congestion, gas use, and dust kicked up by cars. 2. The Lodge either needs to reduce the price of food on the menu or hire a more professional and skilled staff because the service is porrer than similar priced locations (i.e., Moody's, etc). The bar staff is great though. View complete survey for this response 185. I think TD has a lot of things they just need to make better programs. Like Tennis- they need to always offer the best program. We have the best in the tahoe/truckee area. Stop trying to be something you're not. We will never be old greenwood or lahontan. We are Tahoe Donner the first one in truckee and the best. View complete survey for this response 186.Bury the poles!View complete survey for this response 187. How in this survey will you take in account the facility not used option in each of the Area survey. Will we get a report on the number (not percentage response) of this survey or just the boards interpretation. It seems that in the past 2 years an extensive amount of time and therefore money has been spent in surveys constantly asking the same questions. There should be a limit on this and the frequency of requests for changes that have already been addressed. View complete survey for this response 188.Forget the underground utility wiring. It's fine the way it is, 80% of homes are 2nd homes- NO NEED!! View complete survey for this response 189. We have lived up here for over 11 years, and this is where we are raising our family. It makes me sick to think that we may be priced out of here (the possible cost of underground utilities, increase in dues, etc.). My husband works for the Fire Dept. and myself an RN at Tahoe Forest Hostpital. We really wish that you would consider the full time residents that cannot afford absurd amounts of money for ridiculous ideas like underground utilities (because when the rich people come up here to their 2nd & 3rd home they do not want to see power lines) - If no one can afford to live here then who will respond to your house when it is on fire or when you have a medical emergency or who will care for you when you are sick. Some of us appreciate what we already have - Trout Creek is beautiful and does not need to be expanded any more, etc! View complete survey for this response 190.TDXC is a world class area that has gone downhill in the last few years.View complete survey for this response 191. Lucky for the town of truckee that our boards only govern tahoe donner. They would want to replace everything historic in our town. Because of everything over 30 years old is too small, obsolete not A.D.A. compliant or the wrong color. Our board feels they need a legacy of spending, tearing down and supporting special interest groups. how about finding fixes and representing the majority of homeowners. View complete survey for this response 192. We love Tahoe Donner. It has been a good grounding place for our family. the association is doing an excellent job - keep up the professional performance. Look to the future, do whats right. Build a community that will stand the test of time. Thank you for all that you do! Gary Falati 14305 Tyrol Rd View complete survey for this response 193. In the 10 years that I have lived in Tahoe Donner. I have never seen an agressive dog. I have run into people who have made a scene when they see my labs off leash. I do not believe there is a problem with dogs in Tahoe Donner. View complete survey for this response 194. I still feel the best move of my life was the purchase of my unit in T.D. It represents my retirement package. Thank you to the board. What I want to see happen next is a total redevelopment of the downhill ski area. Put it on the same quality and professionalism as our golf & tennis are. Market the fact that it is a premier area for kids & families to learn to ski - increase shuttle service to include cross country skiers also. Thank you for all you do & are trying to do -- View complete survey for this response 195.I wish there were more kids night out on the weekend. Maybe 1 a month View complete survey for this response 196. Re: For-Profit Subsidiary - I strongly recommend greater effort be focused on more efficient and appropriate use of funds from the membership fees, rather than try to start a new business. It seems to me the community members could (somehow) indicate how they would like their fees to be directed, and these indications would highlight what projects our membership considers most important. Linda Stewart View complete survey for this response 197. We've been attacked on our own property and on TD property. We dont walk anymore. I am sick and tired of the attitude people have when they come here! They think just because they're in the mountains the rules dont exist. They are WRONG! Animal Control for the Town of Truckee does not do their job well and has even given our names to the people we made complaints against and we later got nasty phone calls from them. We are also sick of cleaning up PILES of dog poop in our garden. I've worked 20 years on my garden and DO NOT appreciate finding surprises when I'm working outside. The problem is so severe, we're going to move as soon as we can! View complete survey for this response 198. 1. Trout Creek Outdoor Expansion- would support a lesser plan. 1-1.5mm is too much 2. Rec Ctr- downgrade on overall has to do with cleanliness in locker rooms, showers, hottub & pool- tile and bottom. 3. Marina-good kayaks are worn out. New plastic bright colored ones are totally unsatisfactory for kayaking. 4. Downhill & XC facilities- too small. XC is outstanding in everyway but space. Eagerly await expansion of trails. Down hill area is good for what it is - a place for kids to start and others to use occasionally for a couple hours. To be anything else, it is too small & it would be costly. 5. Re: for profit endeavour - We are a HOA. We should stick to what we do well. 6. Tired of being chased by dogs when on bike or walking the streets. Voice control is a myth. Dont state parks and nat'l parks (when permitted) require dogs on trails to use leashes to protect wildlife? View complete survey for this response 199. I'm surprised there were no questions about the new "Lodge". I love having a good restaurant close to home. I think ther food is delicious. I think the manager is an ass. I asked about some policies regarding substituting fries for a salad and he gave me a very "pat" answer. Nothing to indicate he cared about what I wanted. I also had another similar run-in with hime. He needs to come down off his high horse and let the locals know he cares that we come in and pay his salary! View complete survey for this response 200. I can't believe we spend money on this survey. Most questions fail to state frequency of visits, weekly, monthly, yearly. Real Estate venture is a wast of resources: we need a new downhill ski lodge, x country lodge. We can't even repair and replace signage. How is current management going to run a real estate venture; I don't think so. More effort needs to be spent on building a effective, cohesive TEAM. View complete survey for this response 201. The lodge: great bar! Warm environment, fun! Dogs: we were chased on Northwoods by a pit bull and its companion dog! It was terrifying and we clearly would have been hurt had my husband not shouted at the dogs. View complete survey for this response 202. We like TD as it was in 1984. We built a home. We didn't buy for the amenities. We dont use them. Association Dues have never stopped rising. TD Elected Boards continue to plan projects when the members voted no. If underground utilities are approved, you will be forcing many members to leave. If underground utilities are not approved, the board has been wasting time and our association's funds. Get our ammenties out of the red or get rid of them. View complete survey for this response 203. Quit wasting money on survey's. Do not waste staff time on real estate venture. Take care of good employees and pay them a wage that will keep them around. Consider a new GM that does his/her job and doesn't pursue a fantasy career in real estate. View complete survey for this response 204. We strongly oppose spending anymore money on studying the placement of utilities underground. The costs are "out of sight" and would not add any value to our property. It would reduce the saleabiity of our property and have construction noise and streets torn up for the next 7 years. Give us a break! The for-profit subsidiary is also an idea that is terrible. We should be moving toward getting out of businesses and franchising out the golf course, ski hill, etc similar to Northstar. View complete survey for this response 205.Take the proceeds from the sale - invest in safe treasury bills at 4.15% for now. You don't have to WASTE it now!! View complete survey for this response 206. TD needs to keep pace with amenity use. members need to have a good/adequate rec. center. Maybe build another center elsewhere in TD? Amenities were what brought our young family to TD. We could have purchased anywhere at Tahoe but there was no place that offered as mush as TD. In 19 years of home ownership we lived 9 years as full time residents. We never felt that amenities kept pace with needs at the rec. center. Yes, we were spoiled having access during the weekdays & off seasons/people are up there all the time! Just keep up with growth. Thanks. View complete survey for this response 207.Expansion of existing amenities is over kill - Do the best you cn with what you have. Improvement and upkeep of existing staff is enough i.e., ski hill, golf course, pools, etc. View complete survey for this response 208.The dining room at The Lodge is great!View complete survey for this response 209. We feel the association does a great job. We love all the access we have at Tahoe Donner to outdoor activities. Could use more ski instructors in snowflake program so that the kids would receive more lesson time. Overall everything is good. View complete survey for this response 210.I think the board should look at the lodge at the downhill ski area. Its a dump View complete survey for this response 211. Stop finding & looking for ways to spend more money. Members, some of us, do not have deep pockets to be able to afford every whim or idea of just a few. You are slowly, but surely, forcing people on a fixed income & blue collar workers, out of the area. The attitude "if you can't afford it here, get out" stinks. We can't afford it becuase of YOUR actions & attitudes about spending. Again, we are not an infinite source of income for a few's pleasures! View complete survey for this response 212. Re: Future Plans: 1. Utilize ski bus better, loop around northwoods- not as parking lot shuttle. 2. No increase in Boat/RV parking 3. No community Parks 4. No dog parks 5. No XC building remodel -people ski not lodge-lounge 6. no ski hill building remodel 7. no event coordinator 8. no CCR enforcer View complete survey for this response 213. 1. Marina - the grounds are always littered and garbage containers are often overflowing. 2. Tennis Center - The tennis center is always clean - including restrooms. 3. I question the purpose of the Alder Creek campground. 4. The expansion fo hiking/walking trails is strongly encouraged. Many improvements have been made and should be continued. 5. Strongly believe the golf course paths should be available for walking/jogging when the course is not in use. 6. Dog feces are everywhere! Perhaps a pick-up campaign with provision of plastic bags and trash receptacles at trail heads would help reduce this problem. View complete survey for this response 214. We are first-time tahoe homeowners. As we become familiar with the amenities that tahoe-donner offers, our usage of the various facilities will increase. Our family strongly supports the expansion of trout creek, the bigger the better.Additional parking is desparately needed at the beach club marina. Congrats to the board of directors, the td association and community is an icon in the tahoe region. View complete survey for this response 215.We would like to see a Trout Creek daycare for children under 5 years old.View complete survey for this response 216. I received information on underground utilities. The cost of this venture is too much for individual owner. It is ridiculous! I would be forced to sell the property I recently purchased in 2004. Very bad idea for homeowners of less means. The association continues to consider new projects that will or "may" raise costs. Please STOP! View complete survey for this response 217. For profit venture is a ridiculous idea. At what cost or potential cost do we receive such little reward. I moved to the mountains from the city of SF, to have off-leash abilities for my dog, and a less constrained quality of life. Enforcing leash laws is not in my interest. Focus on making what we have better, higher revenu generation, etc. View complete survey for this response 218. I would like to see less disruption to the golf courses's playability. Enough! All these "improvements" are preventing golfers from playing the course which is just fine "as is". Let the golfers play the course - all 18 holes of it! View complete survey for this response 219. The board has a mandate to continue the progressive and inclusive direction of the last 5 years. Our amenities are the most important key to the future. Underground utilities & Trout Creek improvements are very important. Please don't lose focus and commitment to the future. Thanks. View complete survey for this response 220.Buy Euer Valley. We need more wild-open space for recreation differentiating TD from just another resort-with-a-health-spa & tennis courts. View complete survey for this response 221. I feel that full time residents who use the recreation center should pay more than the current fees. Where else an 4 people use a rec. center for approx $15/mon? This is rediculous. Those who use more should pay more. Thats only fair. View complete survey for this response 222. Snowplay area needs better supervision of the people using the area, i.e. enforcement/encouragement of the safety rules. For example, letting people know to walk up the sides rather than in the middle. The current staff just sits around and don't really do anything. The ski report in the San Jose Mercury News often has no report for TD ski area, i.e. shows no lifts operating and no trails. This gives the impression that the area is closed. It's the only ski area that has no info provided. Seems like a simple thing to provide this info weekly. View complete survey for this response 223. We will be retiring at Truckee (that's the plan) and using pool, weight room and other facilities more then. We love the Tahoe area & appreciate the clean air and beautiful mountains. We had come to the area every year for skiing and vacations & want to pass on our home to our child when the time comes. View complete survey for this response 224. Close money losing areas -Ski Hill -Campsites -Equestrian Center -Did not put anymore funds into golf course, for the limited number of people that use it, have them pay the higher fee View complete survey for this response 225. I think some areas would benefit from undergrounding utilities based on cost and nuisance. For instance, the street we are on has very few wires and you don't really notice them. While other streets e.g. Hansel, Northwoods, shushing, they lool like crap. View complete survey for this response 226. Regarding the equestrian center I was unable to get into a BBQ ride during the summer of 2005 & often, there was no lesson capacity. I know it went to members only in 2005, but did capacity decrease? Rates are even higher than in the Bay Area! About the leash law-I support having dogs off the leash, but I would like to see owners patrol the poop better. View complete survey for this response 227.Tahoe Donner is simply an amazing place. I respect the community and believe recent enhancements were done very well. View complete survey for this response 228.move ahead on underground cables & phone lines & electric and other View complete survey for this response 229. We walk our dog, on a leash, on the TD streets--there are too many cars-- and the strees are there for cars. However, when we hike the TD trails-- we unleash unless we see other dogs approaching. You can usually tell "friendly" dogs from aggressive ones-- but just in case-- we leash ours-- she's only 15 lbs. View complete survey for this response 230.We do not need Disneyland or theme park type amenities in Tahoe Donner - one short step from a miniature golf course... We do not need to be "all things to all men". View complete survey for this response 231. Design of Trout Creek expansion is grossly over the top. People want to skateboard they can go into town. People seldom use existing basketball or volleyball courts. Get real & spend our fund wisely! View complete survey for this response 232.we will probably use the facilities a lot more often after we build on our property.View complete survey for this response 233.Limit to money from sale of property and no more.View complete survey for this response 234. We would like more attention to violations of rules, ex-rubbish piles, peeling paint, rowdy rentals, etc. off-leash dogs annoying on trails streets. Love new restaurant at center - good food and service. Golf course upgrades worth it. will be anxious to play when finished. Will play during work. Would like better food, amenities at association center at the small pool. Pay camp teachers appear too young and ill trained- would use if they are background checked- observed at beach marina. Ski area - DIRTY! Staff lost a friends child in snowflake school! Our grandson sent up chairlift by himself- had never been on a lift! Fell off at top! View complete survey for this response 235. My "poor" rating for Trout Creek stems from observing too much book reading/computer play at the front desk. Additionally, the cardio and weight machines are too dirty. Do not waste money on further "improvements" adjacent to Trout Creek Recreation Center especially do not build a skateboard park - too much liability. View complete survey for this response 236. Winter use of golf course: I don't understand the restrictions on walking, x-ctry skiing on the golf course when tractors and heavy equipment drives on it and drags tree across the grass. It is hard go believe that humans on foot are going to damage the grounds. Why not stake off a walking path (i.e. cart path) as designated area to walk during off-season? View complete survey for this response 237. The amenities are very nice, but are crowded on weekends. I wish the exercise facility would have been expanded to twice the current size, or at least 50% larger. The marina, lodge, rec center & ski hill all get very crowded on weekends and holiday periods. In general, nice people, nice facilities. View complete survey for this response 238. The Fuels management project - the tree cutting and thinning of the common areas was a waste of money and created bad feelings in the neighborhood. It detracted from my privacy and now I can see my neighbors propane tanks etc. There was no regard for the homeowners views and objections to cutting down all those trees. View complete survey for this response 239.Quit looking for new ways to spend money and maintain what we have.View complete survey for this response 240.I really like the TD trail system. we use it a lot.View complete survey for this response 241.Stop selling off property! It can never be replaced.View complete survey for this response 242. Customer service overall is good. However, there is a poor system of communication between the amenities and the helpfulness of each staff member at amenities regarding overall TD could be improved. People should whats open, when, what services, everywhere. P.S. Who designed your survey? Hard to summarize. View complete survey for this response 243.The new clubhouse has excellent food but poor service. If we want to compete with the Truckee restaurants we need to bring up the level of service. Thanks! View complete survey for this response 244.We also need indoor raquetball courts.View complete survey for this response 245. There should be better rules/enforcement of abuse of amenities, particularly the golf course, e.g. cross country skiing, snow shoeing on fairways and greens in winter and using the fairways, greens and sand traps as a playground and sandbox when snow is no longer on the ground. View complete survey for this response 246.It would be nice in the future, that if you want us to comment on your survey that you at least have the information on you web site that the questions refer to. View complete survey for this response 247.Ali Kovach and her staff at Downhill foods are very pleasant. Only comment is the look of the cafeteria, which is old. View complete survey for this response 248. We have a dog which we walk on leash-When we meet a dog which is off leash there is a problem for both owner an dog. Result-possible injury or liability can occur-Some owners Do Not Think ahead. Amenities are wonderful as is and should be supported by higher user fees, the assessments are too high! View complete survey for this response 249. We paid for the construction of "The Lodge". We pay to keep it open, regardless of whether or not it turns a profit. Yet, it is open to the public and the public pays the same amount for food and drinks we do. I suggest "The Lodte" provide some added benefit to homeowners, such a a price break/discount on food and drinks. Also, the host at the restaurant has an incredibly smug demeanor. It galls me that our association supports such an attitude. Look around, the Cottonwood, Dragonfly, Moody's etc. have far better help - of course, they have the owners present to remind staff of the importance of customer satisfaction. View complete survey for this response 250.In the future you should conduct the survey online and save the money for producing the paper survey and postage. View complete survey for this response 251. We have not used our home very muc over the past couple of years because of business commitments. This means when we do come up it is for short periods of time and we don't use the amenties. Hopefully this year will be different and we can use everything more, but the previous years and the continued subsidizing of everything is poor business. If use fees can't pay for them, then why should all the non-users have to pay for them? View complete survey for this response 252. It seems to us (who live in San Francisco) that many of your expensive plans are mainly for the benefit of the full-time residents. Most of the board are comprised of these full-time residents, so perhaps that is normal! We have a locker and ski pass at Squaw Valley and belong to the Olympic Club locally. Thus, we have little interest in subsidizing the recreation of the locals. The new golf club - called the Lodge is an example of this! View complete survey for this response 253.The association needs to consider remodeling/rebuilding the TD ski area before addressing additional work to Trout Creek. View complete survey for this response 254.Keep TD as is, it is too busy now at peak times.View complete survey for this response 255.It would be nice to expand the downhill ski area to add a new lift and a longer run.View complete survey for this response 256.Keep annual assoc fee down View complete survey for this response 257. This expansion will put us at additional risk and additional membership costs. The facilities you are proposing are already available in the town of Truckee. The additional activities at Trout Creek will most likely increase TD's liablity insurance. Instead of spending the million and half from the sale of 32 acres let's apply it to the general fund and reduce the homeowners assessments. Let's save and not spend so much! View complete survey for this response 258.Underground lines on only Northwoods loop!View complete survey for this response 259. The Board seems to be over zealous in its efforts to expand and add amenities. The idea of creating a for profit real estate business is ill-conveived and risky. We have seen a significant increase in annual dues plus unanticipated assessments since we bought our property. Enough is enough. Even when we voted against an assessment to over improve the golf course, general funds appear to have been diverted to do much of the work. Is it time to recall the Board? View complete survey for this response 260.couldn't find link on website View complete survey for this response 261. The rec center needs a bathing suit spinner in the common area so that men and women can dry suits after swimming. A lightweight hot tub cover should be purchased to reduce the cost associated with heating them when not in use and during business hours. View complete survey for this response 262.Solicit property owners on issues specific to their profession. example: Underground utilities. I know more on this subject than any BOD. C. Reed 14611 Swiss View complete survey for this response 263.Rated Golf Course average due to ongoing construction. Will it ever end!!View complete survey for this response 264. 1. Add ski lift to top of Sunrise Ridge 2. Do not rebuild ski lodge 3. Add game room (ping-pong) at Trout Creek View complete survey for this response 265.Any plans to increase the amount of indoor seating at the downhill ski area lodge or to cover the outdoor deck with a patio covering? View complete survey for this response 266.You are doing a great job! Thanks! View complete survey for this response 267. We ar ein favor of moving forward with the underground utilitites project. We are not in favor of a skateboard park at Trout Creek. Is there any hope of expanding the downhill ski facility? We would like to see the addition of breakfast served at the Lodge. View complete survey for this response 268. Maintain the existing amenities. Slow down on adding more amenities and services - A lot of time and money wasted on utility undergrounding assessment by the Town. What a shame we sold the 17 acres at the entry to TD - Protect and treasure the flora and fauna and beauty of TD. View complete survey for this response 269. We use the trout creek pools in the late evening. Thank you for the evening hours. WE plan to make more use of the downhill, cross country, tennis areas, day camps as our grand children get a little older. The EQ center needs to offer more family events. We tried several trimes to reserve spots at barbeques/hayrides to no avail. We love the trails. It would be great if the trail parallel to northwoods was continued, so walkers dont need to walk on road shoulder to get down northwoods to trout creek. View complete survey for this response 270. Vast improvement of the ski rental process is required. Earlier this year, my family purchased lift tickets, lessons and rentals at the ski hill. When we went to get the rentals, we learned that the rental fees are handled separately. What a waste of time and effort, and a confusing inconvenience for your members. View complete survey for this response 271. The emphasis should be on recreation for residents and guests. need dog control. We dont need a "destination" golf course or destination anything else. Only the managers seem to want destinations to enlarge their empires. Golf course is push push to finish 18 holes in an hour. Ponderosa is courteous with out the hassle of tahoe donner. downhill skiing is a joke. View complete survey for this response 272.No builder currently building in Tahoe Donner should be on an architecture committee. It's a conflict of interest and exceptions (to the detrement of others) are always made for them. View complete survey for this response 273.The Downhill facility has been sorely neglected compared to the rest of the amenities. Money would be best spent improving the quality of the lodge and surrounding amenities. View complete survey for this response 274.The only expansion I would like to see is an indoor tennis court!View complete survey for this response 275.Why can't we just take care of what we have. It seems money burns holes in Darren Shaw's pants. Can't wait until he leaves! Thank you. View complete survey for this response 276.Need updating in our tennis facility. Shade islands between courts. Remodel the restrooms. Fresh water on the courts. View complete survey for this response 277.Please pursue the underground utilities.View complete survey for this response 278. Sorry to see the Clubhouse Bar & Grill close. It was the perfect spot to stop and grab a bite to eat, place to relax in a CASUAL setting. After a days outing, on your way home, come as you are, kind of place. The new restaurant & bar are very nice but feel the need to go home & change clothes before stopping, by that time end up just making a sandwich or something. Definitely geared toward the golfers! View complete survey for this response 279.The Marina food service needs to be looked at. The facility needs to be expanded and upgraded. The food service lines and food preparation times are too long. View complete survey for this response 280.I am against the undergrounding of utilities.View complete survey for this response 281. We have only owned our place for a year and haven't had much chance to make use of the amenities. We will be much more active in future and will be able to provide more input. It would be nice if there was an education DVD for newcomers that show and explain each amentity and service, the cost, the rules on family and guests, open and close times, etc. View complete survey for this response 282. We love Trout Creek. We would like a few more swimming lessons affered through out the summer. Add more sand to the beach at Donner lake. Set up a really great disc golf course somewhere. It's cheap. Set up a program whre each member get a determined number of free guest passes to use at an amenity. Quite often I have a friends child with us and if we wish to spend 30 minutes at the beach for a quick dip in the lake it costs us $5-$6. Its like the paid parking downtown. I hate it. The lake View complete survey for this response is there and we pay our rec fee for our family of 3, dues on 3 lots and I still have to pay the stupid $5-$6 for that short time. Get a better yoga teacher or at least an additional one with a different style of teaching. 283.Need better inner door in men's locker room at Trout Creek rec center!View complete survey for this response 284.Need more info on question 56, what does Northstar, etc do?View complete survey for this response 285. We do not feel TD needs "state of the art" facilities to attract people to TD. Location in itself does that! Let's be very wise on how money is spent. It is very easy to spend other people's money (like our goverment does). View complete survey for this response 286. Tennis-too many special events take up courts and unable to play spontaneously. Do not support the initiative - Even talking about this shows how naive you are and is VERY SCARY! No do not support expanding Trout Creek. We have spent enough money on facilities used by the very few. Constant action is not required for an effective board. We definitely do not need family picnic areas or any other things you can dream up - take a break - we've done enough for the next 20 years. View complete survey for this response 287.Garbage pickup fees are a scam-we never get a chance to use this yet we must pay the fees.View complete survey for this response 288. We support most all outdoor activities to take advantae of TD's beautiful scenery and location. We do not support buying exercise equipment and facilities indoors for memebers and guests, i.e. troutcreek rec center and future such plans. Dogs are a part of mountain living, but must be under leash control for their safety and members' considerations. Customer service at all facilities has been excellent. View complete survey for this response 289.BEACH CLUB MARINA: Exposed beach-need shelter from wind blown sand.View complete survey for this response 290.TROUT CREEK REC. CENTER: Use swimming pool only.View complete survey for this response 291.Dog feces wash into streams and degrade water quality and walking pleasure. How about insisting on pick-up and suitable deposition in toilet or trash? View complete survey for this response 292.Our instruction to you is to keep projects to a minimum and reduce costs. We are not in favor of ANY growth in amenities. View complete survey for this response 293. BEACH CLUB MARINA: Don't use equipment-bring our own. Tahoe Donner has always been a safe bedroom community to me. These initiatives would slowly take that away in my opinion. Let People go to Squaw Villiage or Northstar for more activity and let us stay in the backround. View complete survey for this response 294.Re: Leash control- A nned to clean up after ones pets need to be put into place. Don't like cleaning up after others. View complete survey for this response 295. The Lodge turned out nice, but it is not family friendly. We suggest reopening the Clubhouse for familier with a limited menu (food and beverage) a limited schedual(i.e. weekends except peek summer periods). This would allow adults and their children to spend time together in the evening at the assotiations amenities. View complete survey for this response 296. - Concept of putting utility lines underground (at this point) is a damn poor, ill conceived program. - Improve noise abatement. How can we enjoy the mountains and leisure lifestyle with all of the noise - contractors, radios, music boom boxes, dogs, modified vehicles!! - Get control of the dogs!! View complete survey for this response 297.Package prices high at X-C. The Trout Creek mainpool is way too crowded during the summer. That's the main reason I support the Trout Creek Recreation expansion. View complete survey for this response 298.Trout Expansion: If no additional cost to owners.View complete survey for this response 299. The money spent on literature and survey for underground utility feasibility should not ahave been spent and is a waste of asscoation money. No one wants to spend 40000 plus for underground electricity. its absurd to think that the value would be added to the property, or that any owner would approve such a very expensive investment for vacation property. View complete survey for this response 300.Underground the cables! Thank you! We love Tahoe Donner!View complete survey for this response 301.Make "service" the real credo of Member Services.View complete survey for this response 302. TROUT CREEK REC. CENTER: Expansion was already done. No more! Please be more protective of our dues. No more special assessments and no more dues increases. The present charges are pinching us. View complete survey for this response 303.Homeowner's association fees are much too expensive. We might have to sell if we cant afford them. We know several people who have sold because the costs keep increasing. View complete survey for this response 304. 1. The quality of exercise equipment is poor - i.e. leg extension, leg curl - do not adjust for shorter people and pressure on joints - no good for older people. Equipment is not sturdy; Who was responsible for purchasing it? 2. The majority of TD residents disapprove of cost of remodeling golf course/rebuild under guise of making it handicap accessible. 3. Money wasted - i.e. old upholstery at clubhouse was ok - why new upholstery purchased?? 4. Too much junk food - i.e. junk @ Trout Creek (transfat, sugar) 5. Manager of restaurant at club house never followed up re: getting my help in improving food at restaurant from health standpoint (I am a registered dietician and experienced) 6. I am disgusted! 7. My partner doesn't use facilities because they are too expensive! 8. Tahoe Donner is becoming an association for RICH people. View complete survey for this response 305. -We are very upset about the prospect of undergrounding utilities. The cost is absolutely out of line with the benefit. We hope that nothing more is done to move utility lines underground. - We love Tahoe Donner. Here's why: Great amenities. Where else can I cross country ski, downhill ski, play golf, play tennis, ride horses, go swimming in one of many pools, lie on my private beach (I didn't even have to bring a chair), play on the playground, hike trails, go to the gym, and even do archery? I'm not even mentioning them all here. Great people like Scott Cross at the downhill; Leanne, Ben and Kari at Trout Creek; everyone at the cross country and at the member services office. Our forester is the best too. Terrific CC&R's and Architectural Standards. We think the "no-fences" rule is awesome. It's so wonderful to live in a neighborhood where there are no purpole houses and no cars on blocks in the yards. The cluster boxes for mail. The magnets with all the important phone numbers. View complete survey for this response 306. i BELIEVE THE DECISION TO NOT ADDRESS BELOW-GROUND UTILITIES AS AN ASSOCIATION ISSUE IS WRONG. I WANT THE BOARD TO LOOK AT ALL FACTORS THAT ADD OR DETRACT VALUE OF OUR PROPERTY - NOT JUST GOLF COURSE, ETC BUT ALSO ROADS WHICH I THANK THE BOARD FOR PURSUING WITH THE TOWN, AND ABOVE GROUND UTILITIES WHICH I THAINK THE BOARD COULD HAVE MOVED AS A VALUE ADDING CONSIDERATION. THE BOARDS ASSUMPTION THAT IT IS A MEMBERSHIP/CITY ISSUE IS CORRECT EXCEPT THAT THE STUDY DID NOT ADDRESS VALUE ADDED PER PROPERTY. View complete survey for this response 307. *Please keep expenses down as much as possible in order to keep HOA fees low. *Venturing in businesses without expertise, solid planning and serious evaluation can result in a catastrophe. Play it safe and stay strong. Take care. View complete survey for this response 308.Keep association dues from inflating please.View complete survey for this response 309.We support the associations continuous investment in improving facilities, services, and programs in TD. View complete survey for this response 310.We should have street lights on corners and intersections.View complete survey for this response 311. More basketball courts. Marina - way too many motorboats. Trout Creek - major problem was classes limited on the holidays when we visit. View complete survey for this response 312. The expansion plans for Trout Creek are over the top. The addition of bbq area would be nice and we would use it but the other ideas are too expensive for a minimal amount of use during summer months. Too bad the undergrounding is so expensive. The visual impact as well as providing safe and continual utility use should have been addressed years ago, unfortunately we can do nothing about that. As a survivor of the firestorm in the Oakland Hills, the downed utility lines impact the fire dept and others from fighting the fire and providing rescue services. They did unground the wires after the fire but FEMA split the cost and it was much more affordable 15 years ago. 313.Our dog has been attacked twice by dogs without a leash. Our dog is always on a leash. Your help would be highly appreciated. View complete survey for this response 314.A spinning class View complete survey for this response 315.Couldnt find link on website View complete survey for this response 316. The natural beauty of the area should be fiercely protected. Please don't "junk up" Tahoe Donner with those awful, tacky plastic playgrounds. Kids should learn to appreciate natural beauty and activities that instaill an appreciation of the great outdoors. That being said, some teen programs would be appreciated. TD seems very geared towards young kids. Northstar has a great rec room/center where teens can congregate. It seems teens are kind of left out of any TD plans. We love TD, and truly are not complaining - I just get concerned when development plans, especially for the Trout Creek Rec Center, skew for the very young. Another recent survey asked about transportation linking TD amenities and perhaps even going into Truckee - That would be GREAT! View complete survey for this response 317.Stop spending money!!View complete survey for this response 318. Regarding dogs. We love dogs and like when dogs visit us while we are outside. But there are a few unruly dogs in my neighborhood that will run inside my house and take toys, shoes and run off!! My husband had a shoe stolen from a dog, and my daughter had her favorite stuffed bear taken from a dog. There needs to be restrictions for dogs when they're not with the owner. Some owners just leave their dogs outside while they are not home! View complete survey for this response 319. I am an owner of 2 dogs who are always leashed. My family and guests are afraid to walk in TD, whether our dogs are with us or not. We ahve been chased and cornered multiple times. As a property owner, I feel it is inexcusable that I cannot walk comfortably in my own neighborhood. Additionally, there should be fines for barking and poop. View complete survey for this response 320. Leash laws - I was chaged and bitten by 3 Labradors as the owner stood there calling them back. (I was on rollerblades.) I don't believe "voice control" exists. Cross country - would love to have a bigger living room with a large rock fireplace and stuffed chairs! We've had enough increases in fees and added special assessments to last for along time. I bought the property less than 5 years ago and have seen fees and assessments skyrocket during this time. I did not anticipate how much these fees would add to my general expenses. The cost of the proposed undergrounding fo utility was especially shocking. View complete survey for this response 321. I am a retired Sr. Electrical Engineer at a municipal electric utility in the city of alameda, ca. The truckee donner PUD overhead system is very adequate. To convert it to an underground system in our rocky soil is too expensive and unnecessary for us. The utility would love our voting for undergrounding it, i'm sure. View complete survey for this response 322. ALDER CREEK CAMPGROUND: Caretakers so a wonderful job-sites are clean and well kept; and nicely isolated from each other when camping with tent. TROUT CREEK REC. CENTER: I haven't used the activity classes the past year. I used to do water aerobics and hope to get back to that this summer. DOWNHILL SKI AREA: Terrible wait when trying to rent skis for grandchildren-poor set up for that and inadequate help- we usually end up at Dave's-old town for rentals. Winter sports and Summer water activities are our main activities with our grandchildren- we did not have the opportunity to use Trout Creek, classes, cardio, etc. in 2005- hope to in 2006. Love the new trails around the peremeter areas and continued work on the established trails. View complete survey for this response 323.Although we marked "NO" regarding usage of facilities, once our home is built, we will make full use of association facilities. View complete survey for this response 324. Every effort should be made to make TD a class A family resort area. Improving and maintaining high levels of quality at all our facilities (ski,golf,rec, beach, etc) is critical in maintaining property values. View complete survey for this response 325. We have boarded horses at the equestrian center for the last 3 summers and found the care excellent and the facility is kept in very good shape. The staff are very friendly and helpful. I wish we were able to make reservations for weekly stays much earlier then 5/22 as it isn't easy View complete survey for this response to change vacation plans on short notice. Thank you. 326. I am surprised not to see any question concerning the study for the undergound utility wires! I/My family and I do not support placing these utilities underground. The cost is exorbitant & will do nothing to increase property values and could not be recouped by the members of TD. Thank you View complete survey for this response 327. We would love to play golf at Tahoe Donner. However, teh far-advanced reservation requirement made that impossible for second homeowners to make plans so far in advance. We almost did not use your amenities since 1998! View complete survey for this response 328. We feel the association fee assessment is unfair. The vacant lot owners pay the same assessment fee as theose primary residence ownders and the second home owners. The vacant lot owners use the amenities maybe one or two times a year, compare to the primary owners who use the amenities all year round. View complete survey for this response 329. All staff throughout Tahoe Donner have always been helpful, cordial, courteous, and pleasent to us or our guests. Thank you for your work and efforts betty nance 11595 Baden Rd. View complete survey for this response 330.Marina parking seems inadequate. Investigate solutions. Excellent survey and communications on all fronts. View complete survey for this response 331. OPENING PAGE REMARKS: With this new idea it seems like there are people invloved running things, that all they can think of is how much more money you can squeeze out of the owners for everybody else to enjoy. Sorry!! Let's not try to compete with Northstar. FOR-PROFIT SUBSIDIARY: There are more profitable ventures that would add to any enjoyment of Tahoe Donner. Let's ease the money spent on schemes like this. It is becoming very evident the Tahoe Donner is becoming a recreational area for the rich. We have first a lot and have considered building several times, but hesitate because of the increasing expenses of developing a much larger amenitity thats sure requite. It is a wonderful place for children to learn all the winter sport star ups. Howerver, originaly Tahoe Donner was designed for property owners only with no outsiders, except guests. You had wonderful shows at the main lodge, 2 big swimming pools, especially the one at the golf course which was eliminated. What you should get involved with is a motel inn somewhere for people who have no building to stay in. People that have a house can also use the amenities more frequently. A motel would be very profitable. We have to look down the hill for occupancies. It would be nice to have our own lodge to stay in close to everything. Calling it Donner Point Tree Lodge getting involved with real estate and management would be too much company control. A hotel, motel or inn would be more needed and more profitable and less personal. (Note: Comments were written EXTREAMLY illedgibilly) View complete survey for this response 332. The time to put electric duct underground should of been when the natrual gas lines were being installed. this would have been accomplished by mean of "joint-trenching". The cost would have been approx. 1/3 of the cost being talked about today. I brought this up at a board meeting and my idea was dismissed. I have been an employee of PG&E for 25 years. View complete survey for this response 333. We are against the high cost needed to bury the utilities in the neighborhood. I hope our card got to the appropriate person. Can we get a bathing suit spin dryer in the bathrooms at trout creek? It would be nice to spin dry our suits before taking them home. Keep up the great work. View complete survey for this response 334.Tough job to get people to agree. Thank you for doin it. I think putting the utility lines underground is a great idea. View complete survey for this response 335. Why sold "Crest" Property on Northwoods when contractin a developer/sales manager for percentage would yield much more than $33 million sales price? Why so much money put into a golf clb (Lodge)? View complete survey for this response 336. For profit subsidiary is a DUMB idea. It is out of the association's core competence and the revenue is questionable and not commensurate with the risk. Buyers and sellers are best surved by outside realtors - the association should stay out of the business, and remain a nuetral party. View complete survey for this response 337. we are very concerned about dogs that are not on a leash while on roadways where we take walks and in the common areas where we hike. there is no guarantee that any dog owner can make that he or can control their pet by voice command. there are some who think they can, but they cannot. when a dog is running free, it is a free spirit. i have witnessed owners yelling at their dogs to come back or stop but when a dog is excited, it follows its own insticts., and, should it become engaged in a fight with another dog, or attack a person or child , it will not be listening to its owner. i feel obliged to carry a hiking stick anytime i am out for a walk even in my immediate neighborhood, and its not because of bears. in consideration of dogs, the leashes need not be short. the style that has a reel and allows 10 to 20 feet of roaming range would help ensure that pets do not cause harm or frighten other homeowners who are trying to enjoy the mountains and amenities at td. we fully support a reasonable leash law for td. View complete survey for this response 338.At the Trout Creek Recreation Center, rules need to be enforced. Also, can be cleaner and neater.View complete survey for this response 339.Allow dogs at x-country at least part-time. Like they do at Tahoe City x-country.View complete survey for this response 340. if you are going to start a for-profit real estate business, i would suggest you wait until they start the underground service ($25,000-30.000). then 90% of the houses will be up for sale. what a gold mine!! View complete survey for this response 341. The 32 acre proceeds should be used for improving & expanding our open space "non structural" diverse recreation opportunities. The unauthorized use on the golf course was contraty to the homeowners direction in previous surveys. View complete survey for this response 342. we use the amenities very little. we are not interested in improving the amenities in order to raise our property values, as we do not intend to sell. we may have to sell, however if you keep raising the association dues and amenities fees! if we had wanted a second home in a community like old greenwood or lahontan we would have bought there- give us a break! View complete survey for this response 343.Lets get the golf course construction all done at once. Then pursue a more agressive maintenance program. Drainage and irrigation need to be better. View complete survey for this response 344.Expansion of Trout - if more hot tubs are installed!View complete survey for this response 345. 1. i found no documentation on trout creek expansion on the web. given that we just completed a major expansion, further expansion would indicate poor planning. 2. the board seems intent on major golf course rennovation despite clear input from a majority of membership that this is not supported. golf course should be maintained in good repair but no major upgradeor change should be undertaken. View complete survey for this response 346. Regarding dogs - I jog 2-5 miles and get approached by barking dogs at least one time during my jog. Some of these encounters are frightening. Plus, owners don't do their job in picking up the deposits left by dogs. i'd hate to see a young child getting bit or knocked down or scared by one of these barking dogs running loose. View complete survey for this response 347.Please keep costs and overhead under control and focus on continuous improvement and productivity improvements. View complete survey for this response 348. I understand that bridges in Euer Valley are expensive. How about single tract trails down to the creek and then some kind of foot bridge to cross the creek. We need 2 bridges at either end of the property. This would give us access to the whole property. It would also help with staying on our property so we don't have to trespass to use 7C's or the Euer's bridges to cross the creek. Thank you for this opportunity. View complete survey for this response 349.we were disappointed with the changes in equestrian center last year specifically the triple in price for a child's pony ride. View complete survey for this response 350. There are plenty of real estate brokers. The brokerage business in Truckee is competitive. There has been no basis suggested by which this addition of yet another one could be viewed as needed. The association should focus on member service- NOT get off track in an unrelated for profit business. I dont know what playability means in the context of this survey question about the golf course. View complete survey for this response 351. Tahoe Donner is "gung ho" in spending money. A situation that needs to be corected is East bound on Alder Creek Rd beyond the campground. There are numerous trees that need to be removed. This is a SERIOUS fire hazard that could erupt into a disaster at any time. Don't tell us it's good for View complete survey for this response the environment. I know better. If we don't own this land, we should take steps to look into this situation and correct it. Think about it! If you must raise the fees, limit it to COST OF LIVING. 352.I do not support underground utilities. I am strongly opposed & will actively campaign against such an initiative. View complete survey for this response 353. The customer service or human element at most THD facilities are average. It does not appear that THD strives for excellence in delivering of service from it's employees. More smiling, happy and willing service personnel would be great! This community provides jobs for those that choose to live in the area. View complete survey for this response 354. Do we need underground utilities, WE DON"T!! Are you trying to make Tahoe Donner a richman's subdivision. Every year they come up with a way to spend more money for more land, unecessary improvements etc, etc!! We already have very high utilities. Water $50 + a month without one day of useage for a month. Homeowners going out of sight with raises, one raise after the other continouely. There is not one good reason for this latest idea. The above ground power etc, it just fine. No reason to change it. Lets start listening to the people of this subdivision!! View complete survey for this response 355. 1. No association flip tax when one sells their TD property 2. Apply association standards uniformly. No loop holes. 3. tree removal fee is not warranted. View complete survey for this response 356.I agree to pursue undergrounding utilities.View complete survey for this response 357. I support moving forward with a plan to expand Trout Creek Recreation Center if it pertains to kids outdoor play area. The website info re: proposal is not very clear. A snack bar (like the one at the marina) would be great!! View complete survey for this response 358.Amenties should be pay as you use.View complete survey for this response 359.Thank you for soliciting the feedback-it's important to us to be heard.View complete survey for this response 360.Directors: Please continue to support golf course improvements. The golf course is an asset to ALL property owners and must be maintained - just like all other TD assets. View complete survey for this response 361.Install a STOP sign at Sierra Glen & Northwoods View complete survey for this response 362. Expanding Trout Creek - tried to look up on website and could not find any info or website link for expansion plan. It just says it was approved. When was this due? Why dont you give the website address & link. And why isn't due date stated in this survey? Was this just a waste of my time? This should be more clear! View complete survey for this response 363. It seems the Board has no idea when it comes to Real Estate and market value. Case point- 32 acres parcel that was sold undervalue (why didn't they hold on to it and develop it for the Assn) this would have generate millions more than one time sale and the property would have stayed in the Assn. Get a clue! Leave it to the pros. If this passes, whats next-snow removal service, construction, property mgm, dog walking...... View complete survey for this response 364. Overall a well managed association. Very satisfied with Board & Management. Beware of financial overcommitment. Avoid future association dues increases. Avoid overcommitment to "benefits". Thank you. View complete survey for this response 365. We enjoy hiking the TD trails in the summer and the forest crew does a great job providing quality hiking. We are owners of a dog who goes with us on our hikes. We always have a leash with us if needed. Maybe on the more popular trailheads TD could provide dog waste bags for hikers who are not prepared for their dogs waste. Seeing how the exterior lights on some homes do not meet TD criteria. What about a code enforcement person who did evening drive by's and could issue a warning to bring lighting up to TD standards. View complete survey for this response 366.The Equestrian Center is in bad shape and could use a face lift.View complete survey for this response 367.The association needs to stop taking our money so they can get what they want. I'm so sick of every board we vote in, never stops asking for more, more. View complete survey for this response 368.amenities should be self supporting without annual support from dues.View complete survey for this response 369. Please do not charge current $200 fine for "light being left on" or "excessive noise". I rent my home but I still go backwards $3000 every month. I've never had a complaint but if I make a mistake in character they will trash my home & cost me $1,000 fine?? It more then "the cost of doing business". View complete survey for this response 370.bingo and other summer clubhouse activities are great!View complete survey for this response 371.Paying for amenities I never use is bad enough but paying twice because I happen to own 2 lots is really the pits. View complete survey for this response 372.Darren Shaw is an excellent manager. I support his efforts to improve our amenities and to keep the association employees compensated fairly. View complete survey for this response 373. Thank you for asking our opinion. We do not believe that Trout Creek should be expanded to provide a family gathering area. We believe that dogs should be on a leash except at the area off of Glacier Way (although, as a hiker, it is awful to see so much dog poop there; owners should have to pick it up like they do in San Francisco) We suggest that the Board stop trying to find ways to spend the money that was earned from selling the big area of land. Why not use the money for maintenance to ease our burden. If you buy capital assets, it will cost us money to maintain. Thanks! View complete survey for this response 374. While we appreciate the time many of you contribute to the association often times, it does seem that the good ole boy systems is functioning for many decisions made - Would like representation for the good of the whole, not a few. View complete survey for this response 375. In regards to expansion, I looked at the website, TD, and could not locate a link to whatever you are proposing. What does expand mean? A skateboard park I say NO, a dog park I say NO, a building expansion? I would possibly support that! I support the use of current lows in enforcement of dog regulations. Especially a low on the books in the fish and game code/or title 14 code of regulations that specifically allows the immediate shooting and notification to the known owner of any dog chasing wildlife/big game/dear and doing harm to such big game mammal. Unfortunately, it only applies to peace officers being able to shoot a dog attacking dear or chasing dear down. View complete survey for this response 376. some neighbors have large intimidating dogs, off laesh, on their proprety who approach you working by or on street, sometimes I have to re-route my walk for fear the dogs will attach my on- leash dog. Trout creek: the few classes I have attended are good however most that I want to attend get cancelled. This has been disappointing. Reliable instructors would be a major improvement. would like a heated lap pool year round, enjoy the art work. Tennis center: I plan to use 6-10 times in future summers Equestrian Center: tried 1 time but it was full. Downhill: Lovely family atmosphere - great for guests who are beginners. X-country: will use over 10x in future winters, trails extent of them great and appreciate how well marked. 377. Dogs under voice control are NOT A PROBLEM. We do not require a leash law/ordinance. Do not expand Trout Creek! Unnecessary espense. Reduce assessment instead! Stop raising our assessments every year! Control/reduce espenditures. View complete survey for this response 378.spent a lot of time online looking for the trout creek expansion link. couldn't find it. thanks View complete survey for this response 379.We do not support significant expense on improvement of the golf course.View complete survey for this response 380. This survey is biased and does not address real concerns of property owners, like how we keep our assessments from skyrocketing to pay for amenities and improvements we do not want. View complete survey for this response 381. For about ten years, we used the golf course 30-40 rounds a year, but stopped playing here a couple of years ago, when season rates were abruptly increased 40-50% all at once, presumably to pay for changes at the course which had been rejected by the membership. We do not expect to play golf here again under the present circumstances. During the time we played here, the staff was unfailingly helpful and courteous. View complete survey for this response 382.While we understand that an association is needed in our community and there always be maintenance expenses and expansion of facilities appropriate to the level of demand. However one View complete survey for this response must get the impression that your association i smore concerned in keeping local business (contractors, etc) afloat than being more fringed towards continuously rising homeowner's costs. Your upgrades and expansions are out of line. Many homeowners are only part time residents and in essence supporting all the locals. We dont appreciate the arrogant attitude being displayed toward parttime owners while we pay the largest amount share to the association cost. Be aware that the politics of the association are viewed as a deterent for any potential investors. Word gets around. The time has come for us to sell our wonderful home because of your association. 383. The golf course is way too expensive!!! Property owners should have much lower green fees!! Also, where are the lockers for members? You should be able to make tee times a week in advance for home owners! The bar upstairs should have been larger with more tv's. Terrible waste of space in the entry. View complete survey for this response 384.i support expansion of trout only if doesn't interfere with my lifestyle at the golf condo where i live.View complete survey for this response 385. We, my wife and I, join our daughter for 2-4 months in our house during the summer. My daughter and her significant other occupy the house all year. The house is owned by a trust that I set up for my 4 children. We use Trout Creek all year round and up until 2002, we had at least two full memberships at the golf course. Because of the changes taking place at the course beginning with the sprinkler systemand then all the other changes we have limited our used of the course, so we will again this year. I am not against improvements, but never ending changes with various holes not usable is insanity. View complete survey for this response 386.What a waste of money it was to conduct utility undergrounding study! What a waste!View complete survey for this response 387. we are concerned that the association is trying too hard to compete with the newer, more prstigious resort communities newar Truckee. we built our home so that we could have a pleasant, comfortable home in a lovely area in the mountains. we love the close proximity to the grat outdoors, and we want to enjoy the natural beauty of our area. please stop trying to make td another "upscale" theme park with so much emphasis on more man made amenities. we like the area the way it is! View complete survey for this response 388. It's time for a second Trout Creek. Move the Equestrian Center to the end of the road 1/2 mile away or further. Make a year round Cross Country/Trout Creek #2 center. Keep the Cross Country stall to manage Trout Creek #2 in the summer. Don't waste time and money on all these studies. Do the projects in the current general plan. Needs first then wants later. What is the end date for this survey? Do you terminate or extend until you get the answers you want to the last three questions?? View complete survey for this response 389. The association has just completed a large and expensive capital improvement plan. (Trout Creek & Lodge remodels.)Amenity package is extensive and varied. NO MORE, PLEASE. Let us operate for a while without new improvements/capital projects. We (the association) needs to focus on reducing potential risks/liabilities. View complete survey for this response 390.Undeveloped lots should have a scaled fee structure.View complete survey for this response 391.couldn't find link on website View complete survey for this response 392.We love T.D. Leave the real estate to the experts. The liability is huge and you can't get enough insurance to protect us against all the possible law suits!!! View complete survey for this response 393. We feel that for the idea of the real estate venture that there are options of partnering w/an existing real estate firm & getting a guaranteed % from that realtor. (Idea needs to be more thought out) Just an idea. Why no questions about the lodge or northwoods? View complete survey for this response 394. I have been a property owner in Tahoe Donner for 20 years now. When answering the questions on the use of the different amenities, the answers given are for the 20 years - not in a single year. I did not buy in this area for the amenities. I am shocked at the continuing increase in the association fees and I have never participated in the recreation fee. View complete survey for this response 395.in the coming years our family would like to see the downhill ski area get some attention. this amenity seems to be, to us, a jewel in the rough View complete survey for this response 396.For the good of the whole (including fixed income property owners) we feel the absolute priority View complete survey for this response for the association is to maintain the association amenities. Toward that end, the golf course rehabilitation program to date has been exzeptional. We were ambivalent toward the major reconstruction project but are relieved that the association directors saw fit to rehibilatate a wonderful, valuable amenity. Stay focussed on projects such as that, NOT businesses for profit and the underground utility, numbers are already too high - so thanks for that survey, but we'll pass on that! 397.We do not support moving the power/telephone lines underground View complete survey for this response 398. Nice job, nice idea with this survey. 1) We need to keep pace with the population and useage but it has to be in moderation for both population and cost. We don't want the place to look like Miami Bech so some restrictions on growth should be observed. 2) I'm in favor or undergrounding wires but currently quoted costs are prohibitive. Maybe we could start with bite size chunks and space it over a number of years. 3) Traffice and noise especially on Northwoods Blvd. has gotten pretty bad. We need to start looking at relieving the burden and fire hazare of being trapped by building a back way out to 80. This should be a #1 priority. View complete survey for this response 399.We have plenty of amenities. Let's not over do it and keep our dues at a reasonable level. Thank you. View complete survey for this response 400.it is a crying shame when a group owned home of six families can have 12 kids with amenities passes and my 3rd child has to pay. you're out of touch. View complete survey for this response 401. 1. Thank you for your interest in our thoughts and the opportunity to tell you what we value and want at TD. 2. WE are very concerned about the escalating costs and TD. There seems to be no end in sight. 3. We heard of a proposal regarding the assoc. gettin 1% of every property sale. We are 100% against this idea! 4. We voted against the assoc going into the real estate business because we do not know enough about how this might be done. View complete survey for this response 402. WHy in the world do you need to know ages and household income? just ask people what htye want to see up here. next time your writing a survey, why not solicit help from residents who have done them in the past? why have you not surveyed about the lodge? well, its too pricey for what you receive. View complete survey for this response 403. We own three parcels - ourselves and our renters all use the X-C ski center. It is one of the best in the nation. Please allocate more funding to meet staff and grooming needs. Thank you. View complete survey for this response 404. Please keep moving on undergrounding the utilities Please do not offer employee discounts at the Lodge during peak dining times (ie. not on friday & sat nights) It's hard enough to get a reservation. We would love new steam/sauna facilities. Thanks for asking! View complete survey for this response 405.Expand the ski hill to sunrise bowl View complete survey for this response 406.Please do not over-develop Tahoe Donner. All amenities are fine as they are.View complete survey for this response 407.town should enforce leash law.View complete survey for this response 408.add room/space for stretching at trout creek rec. when exercise/aerobic studio is in use there is no place to stretch. View complete survey for this response 409. in the past i feel the programs developed by the amenities have been focused on the 2nd homeowner, not full time residents. please continue to keep in mind those of us that are here 365 days a year! thanks View complete survey for this response 410. Enforce dog rules. Use proceeds from sale to pay for golf course renovation. The golf course is being and has been majorly renovated (not "maintained") and should qualify for 32 acre proceeds. Amenities should be required to run a budget and fees within a reasonable limit to breaking even, perhaps 5-10%. GROSS subsides to lesser used amenities rest., equestrian, ski, should not continue. Use it or loose it. Overall, TD is a neat place, but more efficiency possible. Glad for survey. 411.you can't believe the cost of covering liability and operations under for-profit View complete survey for this response 412. i feel strongly about NOT changing leash laws. people who now do not leash/control their dogs still won't! people MUST call animal control. the officers are excellent, experienced and competent. this is why we pay taxes! View complete survey for this response 413. Please put an end to the endless expansion of association amentities and unnecesary ventures. It is time to think of core values. The more we expand the more our cost of living goes up. The more the cost of living goes up the more the quality of life goes down. Maintenance and operational costs will continue to escalate. What we need is a better paln for saving and investing our liquid assets for future needs. If the association continues to go in the direction it is heading in we will be setting ourselves up for failure. People who have dreamed of retiring here or having a long term home here will be forced to leave due to overwhelming expense. The sense of community will be lost in favor of short term investores and speculators. Lets be careful what we wish for. Kevin Choromawski View complete survey for this response 414. Since the firing of Greg Cosgrove as mgr of tennis, the tennis center has never been the same. Despite the great courts and facility, the quality of tennis life has declined dramatically. We feel that the TDA Board is responsible for this decline. Management of the tennis center is not a place the Board should use to save money. An experienced tennis professional is necessary to bring the facility back to its former excellence. View complete survey for this response 415. I've been an owner since 1995. Overall, I've approved of the decisions of the association, with one major objection. When you decided to ignore the wishes of 75% of the woners and go ahead and remodel the golf course, calling it normal maintenance, you lost my trust, and many of my friends who also are owners feel the same way. You gave us all the feeling that you can do whatever you want. It will take a long time for that feeling to go away. View complete survey for this response 416. As to spending our money, we should ensure that it is spent on keeping our existing facilties in top condition. The ski lodge is an embarrassment! We must consider the money from the sale of the 32a to improve the ski lodge since it will increase capacity! In a community where people scream if the HOA dues are raised a small amount let's stop wasting time and money on the undergrounding project. It was DOA!! View complete survey for this response 417. We bought in Tahoe Donner for the amenities and we feel it's important to maintain and update them on a periodic basis. The TD Golf Course was one reason for our ownership and a necessary part of maintaining our property values. We appreciate your hard work and this survey. Chris - Jerry Roster View complete survey for this response 418.I do not approve of paying dues and then still have to pay to use the facilities. The structure was much better 24 years ago when we bought in the area. View complete survey for this response 419. Customer Service at the Trout Creek Recreation Center is poor. The staff working at the center is very unmotivated. The teenage staff is more interested in talking to their friends than helping customers. View complete survey for this response 420. 1. note: children over age 18 would also like to use the facilities 2. not enough parking at beach 3. golf is run like a private club for a few groups who book every day 4. something needs to be done about the dogs before a child is badly hurt View complete survey for this response 421. Some attention needs to be put towards the ski lodge. I would like to see some of the money from the land sale be used for some updates inside and out. The building is falling apart! The cafeteria and bar area need help too. View complete survey for this response 422. I would like to see the down-hill ski facility expanded. More expensive snow grooming should be implemented to utilize whatever terrain is available. This would be a safer skiing experience for all. The ski bowl, golf course and marina are why most people buy homes in Tahoe Donner. View complete survey for this response 423.Parking and storage of commercial vehicles/trailers/RVs should not be allowed on association property - enforcement of current rules should be made. View complete survey for this response 424.I would like to see the annual recreation fee be prorated or see it changed to be paid on a yearly basis. View complete survey for this response 425.i feel that the best thing that Tahoe Donner has to offer is a championship golf and tennis facility View complete survey for this response and the second most appreciated thing is probably the trout creek fitness and swim vacility. these are the amenities that will continue to increase property values as they are the things that tere is a big demand for in the tahoe area. i built my tahoe donner home strictly so i wuld have a place inb the tahoe area where i could play golf without having to fight for tee times. 426.The association should provide members of comparisons to other similar properties.View complete survey for this response 427. There exists a want this and that today not only at Tohoe Donner, but other locations to satisfy their "ego" needs. Yes! There are needs to maintain roads, equipment and so forth, but when construction is involved along with the necessary work to complete a job it is costly. Go Slow! It is impossible to please everyone. View complete survey for this response 428.I thin the proceeds from the sale of the 32 acre parcel should be used to purchase more land for cross country/equestrian center and hiking trails View complete survey for this response 429.Open Trout Creek Center at 5:00AM or 5:30AM so it can be utilized by working property owners.View complete survey for this response 430.What about the swimming pools? We think they are a great asset and have been very well maintained - many thanks. View complete survey for this response 431. The 32 acres are behind our lot. We now have neighbors and TRAFFFIC. Ten years ago the association sent letters to people that didn't keep their property up to standard. I see houses with trash and furniture outside. I see houses in bad need of repair. What is the point of the association if it doesn't keep this area up to par. Thank you Pete & Julie Zernik 530-587-7237 View complete survey for this response 432. I feel way too much is done to satisfy golfers and their needs. I hate golf and I feel it damages the environment. There are too many golf courses in the Tahoe Area. I don't feel the TD golf course should be subsidized at all. If it can make it on its own great, if not I think it needs to go away. View complete survey for this response 433. Leash control and voice control rules are fine- The problem is people who allow their dogs to roam unsupervised - or dogs left on porches and decks with no restraints; so when you walk a dog down the roadway - other dogs come from homes. View complete survey for this response 434.I was told by an employee of Trout Creek that the plans to expand Trout Ck Rec Center were a "done deal". Is this correct? View complete survey for this response 435.Please let "common sense" prevail on proposed underground utilities!!!! NO underground utilities! View complete survey for this response 436.The equestrian center needs more financial support from the association. So much could be added to that facility, if you did not tie their hands financially. View complete survey for this response 437. The association is a nonprofit organization and should remain such. Isn't going into real estate now a little late after selling the 32 acre plot now being subdivided. The underground facility study was done without surveying the homeowners. We knew it was going to be expensive and a estimate could have been made (roughly) before wasting $200,000+. Again a little late since the trenches were dug for gas. Michael Wilson View complete survey for this response 438.I feel that too much time is spent on ways to spend more money and hire more people. Why not figure out ways to keep the yearly assessment down. View complete survey for this response 439. I strongly feel that people should be held accountable to keeping their dogs on a leash when walking on asssocitation property. I cannot tell you how many times people walk by my house and let their dogs runonto my property . I There are also dogs who roam by my back deck. I have been outside sometimes or in my garage and it is frigtening to see some of these huge doges coming toward you. People who have dogs and let them go outside unleashed should respect the rights of others. Humans especially. I know from experience that any dog can bite a person. My son was bitten by a neighbors dog, while walking with the owners son. View complete survey for this response 440. Signs should be placed restricting the "2020 acres" to Tahoe Donner residents only. Leash laws for Tahoe Donner would be inconsistent with the Truckee Landlaw and largely unenforceable. Tahoe Donner leash laws would create an atmosphere have dog haters vs. dog lovers. If leash laws are enforced in Tahoe Donner I would move out. View complete survey for this response 441. For years I've heard complaints about how long it takes to get food prepared at the Marina. Some patrons get down right nasty with the marina employees. Please-its not their fault! They do the best they can with one small grille. Once and for all please do something about this problem. It shouldn't take 50 mins to get a burger or hot dog! On another subject, the beach furniture is the most uncomfortable I've ever experienced. The lounges need to be replaced. I know most of last years chairs were new-whoever chose them never tried them! They're horrible! A clock at near the waterline would be nice, especially for the people renting water equipment. View complete survey for this response 442. overall we feel the association has done a very good job in the last 10 years with keeeping the community and ammenities in top notch shape and continued to keep it a attractive mountain town. View complete survey for this response 443. 1. Dog leash laws-Recommend on leash or voice control for common areas - the survey question was a little unclear. 2. Recommend better enforcement of standards - our neighbor's house front deck is falling down. - He keeps an airstream trailer in the back yard. - He has covered broken windows with plastic or wood. He has some windows lined with newspaper. All the other houses on the street are great! 444.Please do not impose a leash law! Part of the Mt. life is being able to enjoy the outdoors with our pets off leash. Responsible pet owners should be able to enjoy this and not be punished. View complete survey for this response 445. We have two dogs. When we are walking on the streets, we get so tired of other dogs running up (no leashes) and starting dog fights. We would love to have our dogs run free, but it just isn't realistic, when there are as many people living and visiting Tahoe Donner. Dogs should be leashed to avoid these very unpleasent dog physical confrontations. View complete survey for this response 446.On going disrupting the golf course for "improvements" has made the course a "joke" to our golf playing friends. View complete survey for this response 447.The rec. center needs a larger lap pool for adults.View complete survey for this response 448.*note - I have a dog which is walked on a leash. As a single homeowner, I enjoy what Tahoe Donner has to offer. Keep everything simple. View complete survey for this response 449.dogs should be strictly controlled in any public area.View complete survey for this response 450.Bury the telephone and power lines.(Should have been done when gas came in.)View complete survey for this response 451. I live at 12956 Stockholm Way and we have underground utility wires already. This was done with a special wiring fee when the lot was cleared and the house built. I paid for this benefit as part of the purchase price of the house. Given this, I do NOT support an initiative of hiding the wires through out the community. I should be excluded from any special assessment. View complete survey for this response 452. We used to bring guests mid-week to play the golf course, stay overnite, BBQ, etc. In recent years the "guest" rate has been prohibitive. Sometimes my friends still come up (Sacramento) but now we go to Reno to play golf and gamble a little and dinner. Both my country club & my friends country club charge $50-$60 for guests mid-week or Sat. afternoon. Of course I know the "local" rates are very reasonable and I'm ok with that. No skate board park. View complete survey for this response 453.tahoe donner is very well run. keep up the good work!View complete survey for this response 454.Stop wasting money on the golf course.View complete survey for this response 455.generally doing a good job!View complete survey for this response 456. the trails are one of tahoe donners biggest amenities. we would like to see you maintain the trails better and teach people how to use the trail systems with better care. take care of the silt problem and mulch the trails more so there is less dust. View complete survey for this response 457.The golf course is our biggest asset. It needs to be upgraded and then maintained and then marketed to our owners and the community at large. View complete survey for this response 458. A March 10, 2006 article in the Sierra Sun stated that second-housing units be added to single family residences to provide affordable houseing. It quoted Cheryl Genin as agreeing that affordable housing, namely through secondary units, should be provided. We are vehemently opposed to this suggestion. there are already too many condos here. People buy into Tahoe View complete survey for this response Donner for the beauty, space & amenities, all of which will be negatively impacted by more units, more people, and more congestion. Our quality of life and housing values will deteriorate. 459.The beach needs more sand. Thanks for the downhill area - it is great! It would be nice to have walk/bike paths along northwoods so kids wouldn't be so close to fastmoving traffic. View complete survey for this response 460. I tried to get more info on the Trout Creek expansion on the TD website. All I got were two artists sketches of proposals which were too small to read accurately. I didn't see any written descriptions or rationale for the proposals, so I voted "no". View complete survey for this response 461. The association should be aware that it could be subject to the unrelated taxable business income rules as they relate to the proposed for profit subsidiary which well could subject all of the income of this not for profit association to tax. It could well defer the non-taxable classification of the association. View complete survey for this response 462.i would support an indoor pool, child care, indoor track, climbing, ect..View complete survey for this response 463. TDA needs to provide more mail boxes, I can't even get mail forwarded to my primary home without a box. The Truckee PO won't forward based on the street address. My deed and tax bills were returned to sender after 10 days... big mess! View complete survey for this response 464. The 32 acres should not have been sold! Food prices are made too high. $10 for a hamburger is not acceptable. There should be options for more moderately priced food. View complete survey for this response 465. I own 2 properties in TD and I would like to recieve 1 copy of TD News and have 1 sent to my mother - I have not been able to straighten this out after many phone calls! I am opposed to spending money to put utilities underground - it is going to cost too much! View complete survey for this response 466.equestrian center and golf coarse are great amenties.View complete survey for this response 467. The existing downhill skiing is too limited. Consideration of adding facilities on adjacent mountain sides should be considered. CATS were used to transport skiers to the top of nearby slopes back in 70-80's. View complete survey for this response 468. We really miss the old clubhouse. Informal setting allowed us to let the kids catch the free movie whole we ate dinner right next door. In summer, we could play all day and sit in the big room and read or play games. The lodge is so formal it feels forebobing. It appeals to a ritzy golf-country club feel. We stopped by to catch a football game on the TV in the bar. Not enough room and the kids got bored. There was no place for them to go so we left. TD needs that informal clubhouse back. And the staff there were the greatest, fun loving, young people who made the dinner service enjoyable. View complete survey for this response 469.would like to see an ice rink as an amenity in the winter. a good location for it would be by the equestrian center. View complete survey for this response 470. update the maintanence facilities. forestry needs new buildings. the old clubhouse must be repaired and maintained as well. i would also like to see more food and beverage facilities other that the grill and the lodge. also have the owners trim their damn trees before we lose some buildings. View complete survey for this response 471. Too much wasted room at trout creek rec. ctr. Hallways are too wide. That room should be expanded for use, area between old and new trout creek is wasted area. Fix fire hydrant markers. Fix snow poles where gas lines were put in. View complete survey for this response 472. Dogs: All dogs should be on a leash when on community roadways! Being barked at and rushed by dogs takes the enjoyment out of going for a walk in TD. It's a shame. Very few owners have voice control over their dogs. While we rarely use the amenites, we feel they are an important asset to the community, and we are willing to support them within reason. View complete survey for this response 473.Thanks for polling.View complete survey for this response 474.My daughter requests "whip cream" for her hot cocoa at the cross-country resort. Great season! We really enjoyed it. Thanks. View complete survey for this response 475.overall we are very happy with tahoe donner. please focus on keeping it that way.View complete survey for this response 476. Note- the golf course is the #1 amenity where my wife and kids feel the least welcome. I is more of an "old boys" club amenity. This amenity should change its marketing so that it is family oriented. Far too many women and kids feel intimidated by the way this course is run. They do not feel welcome. We absolutely need one additional ski lift to increase our services. There's a wonderful opportunity to do this on the backside by mile run. Ski area- give the ski area some of the $3m for improvements. Definitely- many dogs are not friendly and some quite dangerous. Voice control usually comes after an incident has happened. This is not acceptable. Dogs and dog owners do not have priority over the feeling of safety for anyone. We love TD, let there be no misunderstanding. Golf- nice course- but the 'feeling' at the course is one of semi-arrogance. This is not a family friendly environment like the Marina, Trout Creek or the Downhill ski area. These latter three have excellent staff that cater to families. The golf cours 'amenity' should have the same feeling. TD may be surprised how many more rounds of golf it gets homemembers if it changed the whole attitude of the course. Their are many women and kids that would love to play if they had a sense that they were welcome (no where at TD do kids feel more unwelcome). Let all the other Tahoe courses cater to the exclusive (and somewhat pompous) mens golf crowd, and let TD unleash the power of "family golf." This will insure generations of play to come. View complete survey for this response 477. The rules of this association favor full-time residents in Tahoe Donner. Second home/vacation homeowners seem to bear the brunt of costs. It should be more user- based. View complete survey for this response 478.Please publish the % of lots that actually use the amenities more than 10 times per year.View complete survey for this response 479.You should include N/A as a choice - for instance, I use Trout Creek, but have never taken classes. I could NOT find any additional detail on Trout Creek expansion on the web site. View complete survey for this response 480.Re: Trout Creek expansion - There is a large % of homeowners that never use the facility and our association dues go up to accommodate this facility that is not used by 100% of residents. View complete survey for this response 481. Extremely disappointed about the sale of property at entracne of Tahoe Donner for such a small amount -- pathetic Soop subsidizing golfers/golf course View complete survey for this response 482. TD used to be a great place for our family and visitors. Complex fee schedules force us out of Marina and use Public beaches. Cronyism, favoritism, perm residents, Bd of Directors monopolize golf course making it hard for my son-in-laws to get on when they visit. Ridiculous to pay $5 for 15 min in hot tub Trout Creek pool - people hoard chairs, come in and can't find a chair. Feel that we are subsidizing permanent residents social and athletic club but get nothing in return. We enjoy our home and Tahoe but find that the TD ass'n and amenities are no longer as nice as they used to be. M. Katz 14537 Tyrol View complete survey for this response 483. 1. We have a dog. We always walk our dog on a leash and are constantly harrassed by dogs neither on leash or even supervised (running loose). Enforce laws of dogs running free on streets and provide penalties. Encourage owners to pick-up after their dogs and provide fines for not picking up dog poop. 2. Take an activist position on no further growth in TD, Truckee and the area in general. Represent us as owners at the various general meetings and make our feelings known in the area - NO MORE GROWTH! View complete survey for this response 484. I feel strongly that dogs should be leashed at all times. this is not Truckee in the 60s or 70s when the population was much smaller. Every one and their brother has a dog and it would be nice to not be intimidated when walking the streets. And I haven't even mentioned the dog poop problem! P.S. I have a leashed dog. Food Service Marina-Poor Food Service Ski Area-Poor View complete survey for this response Food Service XCountry-Very Good 485. I think dogs should be on a leash at all times except for areas where are set up for dogs and owners only. I think people shoudl be able to walk anywhere without being afraid of being dog bit. I think certain areas should be set up for dogs to be able to run & play & not be on a leash but not common walking areas. View complete survey for this response 486. It appears to me that the Board of Directors has people on it with too muc free time on their hands. Most people in Tahoe Donner just want to enjoy their property and the Tahoe environment. We don't need a larger facility, we don't need a better golf course. Minimize the association to what is absolutely needed, and leave everything else alone. Please. View complete survey for this response 487. Trout Creek - need more elipticals, adustments on machines are difficult, especially if you are a woman, there is something missing, i.e. snack, juice bar. We didn't use Day Camp programs last year. Parks and Rec offered more & better classes for a reasonal dollar amount. We would use T.D. if better coaches, instruc & opportunities. View complete survey for this response 488.I think at least two guests should be at no charge if you pay the additional fee for unlimited access and over 2 guests should pay. View complete survey for this response 489. It has not been widely know, but the TDA has experienced much staff and personnel turn over in the last 12 months. Some after many years of service, some after several years. This current board seems to accept all information from the GM as the last word. Is the top management providing TDA its moneys worth in "results" when it comes to recruitment and retention of qualified, valued employees, or do they settle for warm bodies and "yes" men. View complete survey for this response 490. NO!!! TO UNDERGROUNDING UTILITIES. Some of us are regular working people who have busted our butts for years to build a comfortable (barely) retirement. This would take away our futures just so a handfull of people have unobstructed views. That would be wrong! View complete survey for this response 491. I appreciate the opportunity to have input. Most of the members are already paying too much for the benefits of a few. I do not want to continue to be assessed fees to cover building programs for a few, the association should build in fees to cover the expense for those who use those facilities. View complete survey for this response 492.We miss the family oriented sports bar at the tennis court clubhouse.View complete survey for this response 493. As for dogs. The "mountain" lifestyle involves dogs as well. Yes, dogs with people, under control, not running amuck or loose, needs to be followed. However, the insane letters to TD News from people who "hate" dogs or want us at TD to become the 'Urban Park' they call home elsewhere, should not change the character of our mountain home! Requiring dogs on leash, on our trails is plain ludicrous. Let those fools go back to their urban jungles and deal with drive by shootings, etc. Thank you. View complete survey for this response 494.My general impression is that Tahoe Donner has a higher salary schedule than necessary.View complete survey for this response 495. Thank you for the opportunity to participate in the 2006 membership survey. We have been extremely happy with our decision to purchase a second home in Tahoe Donner and appreciate the dedication of the Board and the employees of the Association. We purchased our home for the enjoyment of our family not to turn around and flip it or use it as a rental property. Our family has been pleased with the improvements we have witnessed in the past 5 years, especially the Lodge. We do wish it was a little larger however. We are surprised by the negative letters we read regarding the golf course. This is a valuable asset and from our experience popular with the local community as well as guests. Most of the new communities springing up in the North Tahoe region include a golf course. Such an asset only increases property values, probably more so than other amenities we willingly support. Finally, we hope one day underground utilities can be accomplished without bankrupting the property owners. View complete survey for this response 496.After owning property and living in Tahoe Donner for 26 years, we find all the "rules" too View complete survey for this response restrictive. We can't even keep our boat at home along with a utility trailer that will make us move and sell out. 497. There are locals living here (and probably a few non-locals) that are on fixed (limited) income. It's time to stop thinking so grandly - i.e., how much money is the restaurant losing this year? - underground utilities, etc. View complete survey for this response 498. Please also keep Northwoods. It is a wonderful amenity for families with small children. Food service there is an extremely nice amenity. We are relatively new homeowners. We were attracted to Tahoe Donner by the family-friendly amenities and hope they can continue to be expanded. With newer, luxury developments coming in to the area, I think Tahoe Donner should focus on those amenities that enhance the overall experience, such as the new lodge and other family activities. Some amenities don't seem to make sense if we want to maintain property values for homeowners and be attractive for families. For example, the campground loses money and is not particularly value-enhancing. View complete survey for this response 499.Enforce any ordinances dealing with barking dogs.View complete survey for this response 500. Assoc dues have escalated too high and too fast; must find effective means (other than for-profit ventures) to correct. Builders/Realtors have acquired too much leverage over the association and its architectural standards committee/code variances; TD is (or maybe has) losing its one-time attractive balance between mountain living and natural beauty; it is becoming (or has become) an upscale mountain suburb of the bay area and other View complete survey for this response 501.I own a lot, yet it seems unfair that I pay the same association dues - not using the facilities - not using all the other services provided for home owners. View complete survey for this response 502.I would like to see the Trout Creek facilities more plush like a true resort center. Nicer locker rooms, etc. View complete survey for this response 503.Re: Trout Creek expansion - Do not have enough info - could not find on site.View complete survey for this response 504. On leash control: Changing existing ordinances will not be as effective as ENFORCING existing ordinances. I am a dog owner and DO keep my dog leashed. My concern is pet owners who do not pick up after their pets whether or not they are on or off leash. View complete survey for this response 505.Strongly oppose for profit/or loss ideas.View complete survey for this response 506.Continue to keep the membership informed and involved. Thanks. THE LODGE IS GREAT! View complete survey for this response 507. I have lived here most of my life and I have grown to love this area. The Board of Directors has continuously voted in their best interst - back-door golf course improvements, etc. We are not retired, we do not play golf and we do not want to have to work more just to pay for what the Board's personal interests dictate. We are not satisfied with promises made by a Board of golfers. However, since we are raising a family, we do not have time to go to town meetings, USFS meetings, school board meetings or TD meetings. We have to trust the Board to keep a promise. It's getting tough. View complete survey for this response 508. Re: Winter Time- You just expanded Trout Creek and we still cannot sit in a hot tub, on a weekend, in the winter! Few parents and alot of kids take over the "family" hot tub. I have two kids who have to sit on a bench for 20-30 minutes, because there is nothing else they can do, but sit in a hot tub! Besides, the hot tub is poorly heated. If it were at the correct temp. maybe the turnover would be quicker. View complete survey for this response 509. Loose dogs are a menace. Dogs should be on leash in all common areas. I would like some "music-free" days at the Marina - the snack bar music is too loud. I'd like to see more investment in the Equestrian Center and lower stall costs in summer. View complete survey for this response 510.I feel the full time homeowners are calling all the shots, primarily control all of your facilities but View complete survey for this response push much of the funding cost on part-time homeowners. 511.We love living here!!View complete survey for this response 512. These questionaires are getting tiresome. Start using common sense. When the membership says no to golf course improvements don't spend even more money on the same refused "improvements". Quit paralyzing the downhill ski area and look at realistic improvements rather than a total knock down of the lodge. Quit pandering to the 2nd homeowners who show up on the 4th of July and Labor Day and are upset that they can't get right on a stairmaster at Trout Creek and demand more services. We are not Lahontan and most of us are just fine with that. View complete survey for this response 513. We purchased our Tahoe Donner home 22 years ago. Even though we have a large family (8) in the beginning having four passes with no pictures made it double and enjoyable to use the aminities. Now it is just about impossible with picture passes. Even with the guest passes the cost is outlandish. To buy the aminity use permit is rediculus when each family is only there two weeks. Why should year round residents get a full year benifit for the same amount? Have you ever thought that $50 per month usage is much fairer? You certainly don't do anything to make allowences for large families. Would that be so difficult? There can't be that many. View complete survey for this response 514. It seems the online survey already asked about expanding Trout Creek and I already voted No. Why ask again? It also seems too often that when we as residents are asked for out opinion we are not listened to. The Board simply asks again and then pursues the project anyway. For example, we voted down a big $ proposal for the golf course a few years ago, and every year we see we are doing more "improvements" to the course. This behavior is NOT OK and I don't want to see this anymore. In particular with the real estate proposal, I fully expect the Board to listen to the residents, and when we all vote it down, I expect for it to be dropped. Thanks. View complete survey for this response 515.No no no!!!I did not join this association to go into business!!!View complete survey for this response 516. While we are new owners, part of the appeal to Tahoe Donner was all the amenities. Since we only visit aprox. once a month we have not yet had a chance to use all the facilities. We appreciate all the opportunities available throug the association. We feel very strongly about the for profit venture in Real Estate, and DO NOT support it. When it comes time for us to sell or purchase another property, we want the right to select an agent of our choice. View complete survey for this response 517. For Profit Subsidiary - I don't feel we need to compete with already well established local businesses. Leash Control - People should read homeowners association rules before they buy. View complete survey for this response 518.We find the 2 options for Trout Creek difficult to make out - would prefer a listing of what the differences are between prices. View complete survey for this response 519. I own 2 lots and should have gotten 2 surveys. Please count my votes twice. I think not sending a separate survey to each lot owner is very wrong. Any future decision should be based on allowing 1 vote or opinion per lot not per house View complete survey for this response 520. Tahoe Donner Management is taking on serious Big Brother qualities - People come to the mtns for pleasure and relaxation - LEAVE THEM ALONE! Over the past 5-6 years management has become bloated and overbearing! View complete survey for this response 521. Please consider making the golf course cart paths available to non-golfers during the off-season times. This is a valuable amenity that is under-utilized because of the current restrictions. In regard to boat/trailer storage, the parking lots at the downhil ski area could be fenced in and used in the summer months. This would also generate some revenue and accommodate more people. Very few trails are used by the majority of walkers/hikers. Perhaps you should consider making 1 or 2 (like the Trout Creek Nature Loop) leash only trails. Most people never use the whole trail system. View complete survey for this response 522.Stop wasting money on the underground utilities issue and put some effort into providing public transportation into, out of and around Tahoe Donner. View complete survey for this response 523.The Trout Creek facility, particularly the sauna & steam room areas require more cleaning than is View complete survey for this response currently done. The mats are filthy and stinky. The sauna has spit and sweat all over. There needs to be more than a spring cleaning. It's not sanitary. 524. 1. The lodge should be more family friendly. Where does a family go for dinner? 2. We need consistent day care at Trout Creek. Hit and miss scheduling doesn't work. Step up for the families - we will pay for it. 3. TD Ski Area Employees need a shuttle. We see them hitchhiking with other ski area employees on Northwoods Blvd. Thanks, Bill and Wendy View complete survey for this response 525. PLEASE RE-ISSUE GUEST CARDS ALLOW CREDIT CARD PAYMENTS FOR YEAR FEE(S). View complete survey for this response 526.All dogs should be on a leash when not on dog owner's property.View complete survey for this response 527.I support Trout Creek, but feel that another lap pool should be higher priority than it currently is.View complete survey for this response 528. If they proceed with the underground wire placement - there should definatley be considered homes that do not have wires that obstruct views and they should not be meade to subsidise the homes when lots of wire obstructs view. The lots were priced much higher if the view was obstructed. I think burying views in solid rock is a bit much and it should be not undertaken by the directors. Than you for asking my opinion. Love T.D. as it is. View complete survey for this response 529.rec fee should include immidiate family members View complete survey for this response 530.assosiation should give stronger support to the cross country center!View complete survey for this response 531. Given the recent special assessments for upgrades, I believe we should not consider anything that will require special assessments for at least 10 years. Any maint. and upgrades should be funded with existing funds, proceeds from regular assessments or for profit endeavors. View complete survey for this response 532.Would like to see dues for people, owners who do not use the amenities reduced by at least 30%.View complete survey for this response 533.I would like to see high speed internet made available to tahoe donner residents.View complete survey for this response 534.The trout creek recreation center needs more room in the gym area and the cardia area. Why is the area so small after the new building has bee built? View complete survey for this response 535.EXPANDING TROUT CREEK RECREATION CENTER: This, again, would benefit the full time residents just like the recent upgrade of the trout creek center. I am absolutely opposed to this expansion!!! View complete survey for this response 536.I support expanding Trout Creek but strongly oppose and yplan that includes a skateboard park.View complete survey for this response 537. I would like to see the menu at the restuarant modified. It is too expensive to dine on a regular basis. Also there is no pub menu or kid friendly menu. We need better appetizers or pubby type food for this restuarant to survive. View complete survey for this response 538. We would like to see a dedicated and safe walking path from Sierra Glen down Northwoods to the clubhouse. It's dangerous to push strollers and have kids on bikes on the road trying to access the Rec Center and Clubhouse, and we don't always want to have to drive. View complete survey for this response 539. I feel the TDA should stop contemplating moving the utilities underground. $30,000+ is way too much money, $5000 and over I would vot no. Overall, though, TDA does a great job. Thank you. The Hyatts 13921 Hansel. View complete survey for this response 540. Initiative: No way to guarantee business capabilities and acumen in a publicly structured entity. A small group of people (politically based people) overseeing a business (or private enterprise) using public funds without a mechanism that allows the public group to hold the management team accountable. The question is if it goes into receivership who owes $. Not the public - but they would pay for management decisions. Leash conrtrol: Owners need to be held responsbile for controlling their animals and accountable for physical or or personal or property damage. If a dog NEEDS a leash, use it!!! Of course, this assumes the owner is objective rather than subjective. View complete survey for this response 541.I purchased my Tahoe Donner property in April of 2005, and have rented the property out since View complete survey for this response then. The only amenities I have used were the Tennis Center and large swimming pool complex in August of 2005. I plan to move into my residence in June 2007. 542.Long term older property owners do not appreciate Bay Area yuppies trying to turn TD into another Northstar - Don't price us out we enjoy peace & quiet of TD not the amenities. View complete survey for this response 543. Dogs should be on a least AT ALL TIMES. We are tired of being chased. No owner around for voice control. While work is ongoing on the golf course - the season pass should be much less. Fitness center needs machine for hand and shoulder work Too much wasted space at Trout Creek - long hall and old entry way not very useful. Otherwise, we love TD. Have owned for 30 years! View complete survey for this response 544.The association should stick to its business of managing the "Home owners Assn". And NOT enter into any for profit enterprises one its risky and two its competition with those who you serve. View complete survey for this response 545. Host/Hostess at ski hill to direct/inform visitors. More focus on local kids for winter employment. View complete survey for this response 546.There should be more effort directed at making the existing facilities have increased income to cost ratios. View complete survey for this response 547. Other ideas for profit making: 1. Recycling bins for aluminum and plastic and glass. Put them at NW, TC Lodge, DH Xc, Marina, Tennis and a few large ones to central association use. Then take them to redemption center. Trout Creek check in is overstaffed and could do something to earn their salary. 2. Only allow discounted employee meals at Lodge when slow. Don't sell out limited Valentines Dinners cheap. Also - don't have "special events" that are subsidized on Thursdays-Mondays, Tues, Weds when 80% of owners cannot attend. Winemakers Dinner should be on Sat nite! 3. Do not give away limited tee times to non TD kids. No more "local kids pricing". Save tee times for TD owners or charge market rates to improve our bottom line. I will send in more comments. View complete survey for this response 548.Expanding Trout Creek - NEED MORE INFORMATION!View complete survey for this response 549.Not enough information on the business profit venture.View complete survey for this response 550. The tennis center until 2 years ago was fantastic. The pro (Greg) knew how to blend lessons, social events, tournaments and everyday play. This used to be our favorite tennis facility. NOW the association has separated the teaching pros from the social activities, etc. This doe not work. A non-tennis administrator cannot organize people into groups - to play nor properly promote various activities. Please find a good pro that can return this club to a fantastic amenity. P.S. Kurt gives fantastic lessons. View complete survey for this response 551. We have one of the most beautifully sited tennis facilities. Until 2 years ago we have a fantastic pro (Greg) who organized people to plan and blended lessons, tournaments, social events, etc. Now the association has seperated the teaching pros from the other social aspects. A non-tennis administrator cannot organize this blend that truly makes for a great tennis experience. Please find a good pro that can return this club to the fantastic amenity tha it can be. P.S. Kurt is an excellent teaching pro. View complete survey for this response 552. 1) Marina needs MORE KAYAK STORAGE UNITS! 2) Trout Creek Rec Center is good by day, and not so good at night. Teens just socialize at desk; they do not keep equip/rooms clean. 3) Trout Creek Expansion project should be noise-free (picnic, horseshoes, bocce ball, et) and family-friendly. These are not expensive add-on's. Don't make Tahoe Donner a theme park like Disneyland. This is a RESIDENTIAL AREA). Thank you. View complete survey for this response 553.We are new home owners so have not been able to experience all four seasons in our new home. We hope to try out the facilities this year. View complete survey for this response 554.You are doing a great job. Thanks!View complete survey for this response 555. -My husband and I bought our house just last Oct. We went to the homeowners assoc to ask for help getting plans for our house and found the two men who were there extremely helpful in answering questions about the area and giving us helpful hints on timing and referrals. -Policing of the hot tubs needs to be done more as the one time we used the adult tub, children View complete survey for this response kept getting in & splashing around. -It is very difficult to find someone to shovel our snow on the steps & we could use referrals on housecleaners. -I think many people in the area believe that opening their front door and releasing their dogs to roam and "poop" anywhere is ok. Signage & designated dog "park" areas, where dogs may roam free off leash in their owners' presence would help. 556. Please put a little more attention to the quality of life for the people that live here and this has become their "ancestral" home. Not the "anal brigade" whose soul purpose is to impose their ways and rules on the locals. Those of us that put in 365 days need protection from weekenders and VC that attack because they have the time and money to do so. HELP! View complete survey for this response 557.Some questions are worded with a slant.View complete survey for this response 558. We appreciate the efforts of the board and staff communicating the various issues of the community assn. We purchased our home at TD as a second home with no intention of being any of our primary residence. Accordingly, we will continue to support recreation concepts of "pay for use" and not be saddled with more costly "country club" fees that only serve primary residents at the expense of us second home users. View complete survey for this response 559. We do not know a lot about day-to-day issues with Tahoe Donner life, but are dreaming about spending more time in our home. We support the ideas that hold TD property values high. Yet there are some matters best left to professionals in their fields. We worry that too many responsibilities wil create a bigger burden on association resources. Thank you for the underground utilities exploration whatever the outcome. View complete survey for this response 560. At times I and the family want to use the Jacuzzi and the cost is high especially for our guests. Is there any way to just use the Jacuzzi not the whole facility that this fee can be lowered? View complete survey for this response 561. I do not live full time at Tahoe Donner but believe the association is well run and would support Board member decisions. My hope is the Board members make sure costs stay under control and affordable to all. View complete survey for this response 562.I suggest High Mountain Kids Camp needs to ofer more physical activities for the little kids and less SITTING activities. View complete survey for this response 563.The visitor fees are too high. I pay for amenity use whether I use them or not. I should be able to have a friend join me free. View complete survey for this response 564. I think it is ridiculous and costly that Tahoe Donner homeowners especially real estate companies onsite commercial space are promoting "underground utilities" at this time. Dart Industries had the opportunity to develop/construct the above however topography would not allow this. This should be a 2/3 vote of homeowner's acceptance of this idea. Funds from TD homeowner's association promoting this idea is excessive use of our reserves. View complete survey for this response 565. Have not played the golf course since maintenance projects have been completetd. Down Hill Ski Area should increase staff and equipment during school holiday time frames. Very disappointing to be turned away after a TWO HOUR wait! View complete survey for this response 566. Like the e-mail updates Still having a problem with the truckee-amfia running everything, second home owners always come second, or third. Resent that restrictions on using the golf cart roads for everning walks. offices hours are for locals only, you should be open allday sat&sun, and closed monday and tuesday View complete survey for this response 567. Assessment fees are too high. This board needs to take on its fiduciary duty and control and reduce spending, or we need a new board that will. View complete survey for this response 568. For people such as us who have paid association fees for some 25+ years, and since we only use the facilities once or twice a year at best, we feel that there should be an allowance for us to use the amenities (Trout Creek, Marina, etc) without the additional rec fee. Perhaps a one week (5 day pass) per year would be fair and greatly appreciated. People that use the amenities so little and often not at all and have paid thousands of dollars over the years and are in good standing should View complete survey for this response be cut a little break. I'm sure this will go unheard but it helps some to vent. GWL 569.We are building on lot purchased 15 yrs ago. Hope to complete in May 2006, and be able to enjoy more amenities. View complete survey for this response 570. For profit - not sure, what is estimate of net revenue. If less than $250K forget it. For dogs - we haven't found dogs to be a problem. Expanding Trout Creek - not sure. Where else could the money be spent? I thought we just spent $2.5M. How about indoor basketball court? Scrap the picnic area idea. View complete survey for this response 571.Need to increase parking space by the beach and provide a healthier menu as well. Thank you.View complete survey for this response 572. I think the idea of forming a real estate subsidary should never be part of the associations agenda. That is NOT the purpose of a homeowner's assn. If the board members are so sure it would be such a profitable venture they should form their own private real estate venture and compete with the other established real estate offices in the area. If they find they're making too much money, they can always donate a percentage to Tahoe Donner Assn! The board is all too eager to risk the membership's funds. Let them risk their own money on such ventures! View complete survey for this response 573. XC: Northstar allows skiing on their golf course. I do not agree with the current ban on TD golf course. I agree the greens should be off limits. Golf: With the ongoing improvements, fees should be discounted to members playing the course. IT is not a pleasant experience the last few years with some holes being totaly closed or shortened, etc. View complete survey for this response 574.based on the "minimal" proceeds realized from the 32 acres, what makes the Board think they can create a for-profit subsidiary? View complete survey for this response 575. Trout expansion: YES YES YES! During the summer months- all facilities are much too crowded! (as is northwoods) During weekends and holidays, fitness areas much too crowded! View complete survey for this response 576.Has there ever been any consideration in making the golf course private? I get tired of hearing non-golfers complain about golf course costs. View complete survey for this response 577.I would like to see spa facilities @ Trout Creek in a pro profit format. I would like to see parking area off Rd/Glacier be plowed in winter for off street parking. View complete survey for this response 578.Have used tahoe-donner facilities less than one year. Opinions not fully formed.View complete survey for this response 579. We are very new to the area and have not yet had time to enjoy the amenities during the summer months. That said, we bought in Tahoe Donner because of all the wonderful activities offered and are looking forward to using the facilities. View complete survey for this response 580.The downhill ski area could really use some updating, renovating the food service area and sitting areas. View complete survey for this response 581.Would prefer not to see the requirement for cross country season pass holders to scan their card prior to skiing re-established. View complete survey for this response 582. Trout: Not in the next 5-10 years. Its never that busy to us in th efe wtimes we have gone there merely to swim. I feel the board should run TD assn as well as they can , but for goodness sake dont think you can run a real estate business for profit. You're good at running the TD assoc., but please leave other activities to be done by full time professionals. View complete survey for this response 583. Need more info on Trout Creek to decide if more is necessary. Personally, I would like to see racketball at the tennis facility. We purchased because of all the nice amenities and I'm always open to improvement or expansion if it makes sense. As for subsidized "for profit" activities they make no sense with so many professional real estate people in the area. I feel like the current dues are acceptable and wouldn't want to see them go up if possible. View complete survey for this response 584.Dogs should be leashed at all times except when inside a person's home.View complete survey for this response 585.For profit - yes with limits on losses can occur and guaranteed future of business. Leash control rules should be more lenient. Allow dogs in xcountry ski area if not on tracks! View complete survey for this response 586.My support for the development of "for profit business" is for getting a business plan and having it reviewed by the membership. View complete survey for this response 587. I know the Board has their critics but we think you all do an incredible job! Keep up the good work! Schedler Gang Swiss Lane View complete survey for this response 588. More services and amenities for ADULTS. Leave the dogs alone! Charge more for the day camp. View complete survey for this response 589.I have been afraid to go walking due to dogs who approach since they are not on leashes nor is their owner in sight. The dogs are on their owners property but they run out into the street. View complete survey for this response 590. I have read many comments converning the upgrading of the golf course. Although I only use the golf course a few times each year, I fully support the ongoing efforts in making this course one of the best in the area. I believe one of the reasons our property values remain high is because of the excellent golf course. It would be a serious mistake not to keep all of our amenities including the golf course in tip top shape. View complete survey for this response 591. As a senior citizen on a fixed income, keeping the Tahoe Donner Property (2nd home) is very questionable. increased fees, assessments, and subsidies for full time residents is pushing our budget. The fixed fee utilities for 2nd home owners are very high. Garbage is put out once or twice a year. Water used 20 days. View complete survey for this response 592. I feel the Board spend to much time and money on studies for future ventures. I believe the Board should concentrate on maintaining what we have. I believe the Board should not pursue venture into activities that will incumber future boards, as well as owners. Tahoe Donner isn't a fixe star resort, it is a HOA family community. If we wanted a Northstar type community we would have built there. View complete survey for this response 593. My support of the for profit initiative depends on the business plan and probability of success, defined as profitablity. Instead a for profit R.E. brokerage business, why not a nonprofit break-even service for renting out vacation homes? Also, I feel that secondary home owners subsidize primary home owners too much as evidenced by use fees that are based on seasons and not per day usage. View complete survey for this response 594. Please expand and improve the ski hill and ski lodge (down hill). We use it frequently and really like it but could use better maintenance and advanced runs and better and more bathrooms and better food choices and expanded sitting areas. Owners of dogs should be required to pick up their dog's poop! I don't support moving forward to expand Trout Creek Rec Center. They should add a separate rec center at Tahoe Donner - maybe just another pool. View complete survey for this response 595. As you will note, we do not use the amenities being evaluated in this questionnaire. However, we greatly enjoy the natural beauty and recreational activities afforded by the common area. We are concerned about overdevelopment (Facilities, amenities, housing) and lack of enforcement of building restrictions (variances circumventing current regulations). We fear that these overdeveloment issues pose serious risks to the property values of existing homeowners. View complete survey for this response 596. I was an owner in 1982. I bought it because I was a single woman with 5 children and I wanted a place we could "call home" I was required to live "on grounds" because I was director with a large medical center and was transferred every 2 years. WE have enjoyed our home, but each year TD seems to be more commerical and we have lost most of the true Truckee-Tahoe ambience. View complete survey for this response 597. Increase the number of member passes available to equal the number of members in a family. 2 adults plus 3 kids = 5 passes. This does not apply to our family as we are only 2, but it does apply to many friends. Birth certificates etc., can validate family membership. View complete survey for this response 598. I think it is shameful for the association to not have the tennis center open until May 3rd. Court cleaning should start on March 1st every years and the courts will be playable through most of March and all of April. View complete survey for this response 599. My second home is a retreat from Valley. I don't use the amenities much and really don't care to provide the full time residents with virtually a free gym and exercise facility. Less development, less construction, less traffic and less expense would make me very happy. Pet peeve: I don't like paying $60+ for golf and having free golf given to staff and other community people. If it's my golf course, then non-members including staff, should pay the non- member rate to use it. View complete survey for this response 600. I am curious why it would cost me more money to ride at the Equestrian Center at T.D. than at Alpine Meadows when I pay an association fee of nearly $1000.00 per year for amenities. At Alpine I could ride for $5.00 less an hour, $10.00 less for two hours than at T.D. (summer 2005). Perhaps there can be an incentive for repeat business - when someone rides at full price for an hour, they receive a coupon for reduced price hour to be used mid-week. The coupon could have an expiration date - to ve used within 2 weeks. View complete survey for this response 601.I do not support passing the cost of golf course improvements onto non-playing members.View complete survey for this response 602. 1. Consider snow making at Downhill Ski Area. 2. Keep area open longer when good snow years, e.g. this year. 3. Staff extended ski days with volunteers to run lifts, etc. 4. Downhill Area great. Keep up the good work. View complete survey for this response 603. This leash control thing is ridiculous. If people wanted no wildlife, dogs, or animal tracks on their property, why would they buy a home in the wild beauty of the mountains? We have racoons around our deck, coyotes near the creek behind us, bears in the forest below, and their collective poop everywhere. If people don't even want a tamed animal (dogs) around, they should go back to L.A. to live! We strongly feel T-D should guard against becoming Gestapo-like, with millions or rules and threatening notices about enforcement constantly being disseminated. Whether it's leash-control, walking on the winter golf course, or whatever, PLEASE try to retrain from sounding like the Gestapo! We're contemplating moving due to the constant unpleasantries about rules. Thanks for listening. View complete survey for this response 604.Live entertainment/comedy/magic/dance music at the Lodge and Marina.View complete survey for this response 605. High end competing resort homes focus on golf, ski, spa & fitness/rec center. Also fine dining amenities. This is the bread & butter amenities that create value. TDR should focus on these. In addition, these high end resorts sell exclusivity private golf course, restaurants etc, limited to owners & guests only. This should also be studied. TDR missed the boat to build a 2nd golf course and sell tdr memberships. It would pay for the operation and contribute to funding other amenities. View complete survey for this response 606.Stop speeding cars on Hillside Rd. and Northwoods. Someone will be hurt. I've seen people driving 65 on Hillside Dr. many times. Dogs loose in roadways/ running loose on our streets. View complete survey for this response 607. Could Tahoe Donner create an off leash fenced-in do park "use at your own risk" so to avoid any liability for the association? I would pay a user fee for upkeep or upkeep should be the responsibility of the users (ie picking up after your dog.) View complete survey for this response 608. 1. WE have a large dog who is always on a leash. We have had to purchase a spray can to protect us from unleashed dogs. 2. Bears opening bear proof trash cans are a problem. WE bought a metal container recommended by TD, had a bear bend the door down and then were threatened with a penalty, received a 8.5x11 black and white glossy photo and letter. ANy ideas as to how we can deal with this? We did exactly what TD told us to. View complete survey for this response 609.We do not use the Downhill Ski Area because there are no safety bars on the chair lifts. We would use the area if this were changed. We have 6 small skiing kids. View complete survey for this response 610.I believe funds for your improvement projects should be funded by more of the people using the facilities- ie: increased green fees, incresed trout creek rec fees, or an increased rec. fee in general. Stop gougin everyone and work with realistic acceptable capital improvement projects. 611. I support the for profit effort but feel we should start small in the property management area. If you read monthly reports from membership office you note they recieve hundreds of call monthely from off the home owners- 75% of our ownership- asking for help in house cleaning, snow removal. I believe we could start here first and then move into sales as a natural continuem. View complete survey for this response 612.Equestrian center - riding camps & lessons: Some people working the center engage in drug use. Also the horse safety procedures are very poor. Camps do not teach safety. View complete survey for this response 613. The dog issue is huge for us. We always walk our dog on a leash and are always being intimidated by loose dogs. "Voice control" is a joke. We are learning not to take walks. We have had loose dogs even jump on our deck and snatch food. We have walked grandchildren in strollers and been frightened by big dogs running up to us. Our dog has been attacked while on a leash. We are sick of it. And how about dog owners picking up after their dogs on public property? The dog issue(s) definitely impact (lower) the quality of life at Tahoe Donner. All 4 of us (owners) feel (strongly) the same way. View complete survey for this response 614. How can the golf course charge full price for season passes and 10 play when only 1/2 the course is going to be available for a month and 1/2 (& probably longer)?? Do you really think the use of an "expanded" Trout Creek will justify the 1-1 1/2 million $?? View complete survey for this response 615. The real estate proposal is incredibly off track. Why was land sold to Donner Crest? Why only 3M? Replace the Tahoe Donner signs on Northwoods!! The Lodge is excellent! View complete survey for this response 616.No dogs should be running loose!!I can't tell you how many times I've cleaned up after other dogs. Pooper bags are available to clean up after one's dog. View complete survey for this response 617.The association seems bent on empire building at the expense of membership and facilities. This seems to go hand in hand with new boards. View complete survey for this response 618. Ski Hill - The association should not invest any major capital in the ski hill. The hill competes with a number of local world-class ski resorts and is not economically viable, nor is it an amenity which most owners use or desire. The association should consider selling or leasing the facility to a private operator. If none can be found, its operation should cease. Although the facility is "convenient" for Tahoe Donner residents, it cannot compete with other local facilities. Subsidizing this amenity is not a wise choice - if it doesn't operate on its own economically solvent, it should be closed. View complete survey for this response 619. My family and I have especially appreciated the work done to upgrade and maintain TD's hiking trail network. We hope to see that project completed and supported in the future. We also love the X-C center - great facility, trails, etc. Is a trail network being planned for the Euer Valley? What about opportunities for bike riding? The restaurant at The Lodge is a wonderful addition to the TD community. We love being able to have a high quality dining experience without going off the hill. We love the ambience and menu - happy not to see burgers and sandwiches. View complete survey for this response 620.Overall a well run association with good facilities.View complete survey for this response 621.Any fee increase over what is paid now will result in my having to sell my property!View complete survey for this response 622. While walking our dogs on leashes, we had two golden retrievers run up to us aggressively and barking as we turned a street corner - no owners visible. We were prevented from walking up this street by these two loose dogs so we support dogs being contained on owner's property. View complete survey for this response 623. I cannot believe that T.D. would even consider a "for profit" venture that would compete (and unfairly at that!) with local businesses!!!These businesses have been encouraged to locate in our area - Their employees live in the area and they have to live by the laws of supply and demand - T.D.'s version would not as they would be subsidized by the association!!! Who is going to pay the salary, insurance, and retirement plan for the new "leash-law enforcement team"? View complete survey for this response 624.What happened with the transfer tax idea for increasing revenue?View complete survey for this response 625. Trout Creek - Cardio room needs to be finished before moving on to new property -that also should be the rule for all existing property. Thank you - View complete survey for this response 626. I think rates for golf, marina and Trout Creek should be very high for non-property owners in an effort to discourage use by non-owners. These facilities are too crowded due to the development that has taken place and the large rental maret. View complete survey for this response 627. 1. The Lodge needs to be a more family affordable restaurant. Your direction to satisfy the association members needs is very narrow with this venue. We are not a fine dining destination. This venue needs to change. 2. Trout Creek needs to be kept cleaner and the help should make this a priority. 3. We are a non profit association not a realty association. 4. Dogs should not be able to roam our streets without a leash and owner. View complete survey for this response 628. Prohibit windchimes. Keep dogs on leashes. Put utilities underground. Stop building stuff. We like the golf house restaurant. I hope the assoc. magazine is self supporting. View complete survey for this response 629. 1. Trout Creek poor house keeping. It has already been expanded. This is untimely plan. 2. LODGE Restaurant is too pricey for our community. We need a more reasonable menu. Fine dining is too limited to everyone's desires. Menu prices are up 20%. The Board needs to monitor and question its operation and direction of business plan for the restaurant. 3. I didn't buy peoperty in Tahoe Donner to be in the realty business. I don't feel our management would do a good job or is qualified to make it work. View complete survey for this response 630.Instead of expanding Trout Creek, putting in bike paths so folks can get to Trout Creek, particulary children, would be a much more beneficial use of capital funds. View complete survey for this response 631. 1. We are disappointed in the new lodge. It is tiny with cut up boxy rooms. The bar needs to be expanded. Maybe into the reception area for the restaurant. What a shame after all the money spent. 2. Food is excellent! 3. Trout Creek pool needs a snack grill with access to outside eating area. View complete survey for this response 632.Use money raised from sale for future needs. Do not raise our rates. no more increases on assessments. View complete survey for this response 633. Please streamline the check in at the golf course. It is far too complicated and time consuming. It embarrasses me everytime I bring a guest. Loel Heupel Lot 6/56 View complete survey for this response 634. Using association members' money to create a profit business, maes the members an investment partner! and as a member I do not want the TD association using my money to speculate in the real estate market! Talking about the electrical underground, I already have the electrical underground to my house and refuse to pay to have the main feeds put underground that is the responsibility of the city and TD,PUD. That is what I pay property taxes for! View complete survey for this response 635. Why not have a dog park where folks can take their dogs to play, run, meet other dogs, etc. We have a great park in our town called Dog Bone Park. Dog owners and non dog owners love it. There are poop pickup bags and trash cans provided for dogs, water, toys, etc. All fenced in. View complete survey for this response 636. Love Trout Creek but it's large enough already. Just repair the spas - (jets broken on it over 1 year. Love the golf and snow play area too. Isn't that enough? If you develop anything, how about the marina - needs improvment. As for dog issue - my dog goes on a leash everywhere. Others should adopt the same - it's called courtesy. Thanks View complete survey for this response 637.I believe the undergrounding of utilities in TD is too expensive to pursue.View complete survey for this response 638.Expand the boat storage facility, thanks.View complete survey for this response 639. To be brief: We have enough summer ammenities. WE have done little to improve our winter ammentities. The Downhill Ski Area is an insult to the Assn. ...minimum # of lifts and runs and no improvements to hill since it opened. WE have space to support an open area ice skating rink. We should work on improving our winter programs and options. IT seems they are being ingnored and too much emphasis is put on short golf season. View complete survey for this response 640. -Membership should be advised what "perks" are offered to Board of Directors, employees, or others so membership can direct Bd Directors to make changes (bring to membership's attention annually). -Expanding Trout Creek Rec Center outdoors was not considered in prior facilities planning (that resulted in membership assessment) and should not be considered now. And do not use "sale of 32 acres" for this frivolous thought. - Membership should be advised of what Board Directos is now consdering regarding employee retention so they can advise Bd if agree/disagree. -Cost benefit analysis should be performed on marginal amenity expansions i.e. golf maintenance facilities, general maintenance facilities, downhill/crosscountry skiing, Northwoods clubhouse/pool, tennnis center, etc. -keep proceeds of 32 acre sale in front of Bd directors and membership so memberhsip has decision on spending this money. 641.It would be nice to get a few free guest passes a year.View complete survey for this response 642. Why not compromise with local realtors and ask for a small % from each sale of a TD home to be donated to the not profit to pay for special projects and offset assessments. That should appease the realtors, and keep the assn from taking the risk of diving into a new venture. Is there a way this might work? View complete survey for this response 643.OPEN Lodge for lunch View complete survey for this response 644. As owners of a vacant lot, I think the association should consider a home owners fee that is lower on vacant lots. At this point additional housing development in TD is not a good idea and allowing undeveloped lots to remain that way is in everyone's interest. View complete survey for this response 645. Good job in general. I am disapointed that your underground utilities proposal did not study: a. undergrounding only the entrance. b. undergrounding the entrance and northwoods up to the ski area c. stopping builders from not undergrounding d. placing utility poles on one side of street only and let the property owners that wish to underground to that side e. stop the utility companies from criss crossing f. establish a permanent utilities committee. passing this so the city of truckee and letting the builders do their wiring with no controls as has been done for years in inexcusable View complete survey for this response 646.I thought we voted a couple of years ago to not move forward with Golf Course improvement.View complete survey for this response 647. I believe the leash law should cover all residential areas as I have not seen voice control work. My dog never leaves our property (invisible fence) but every other dog in the neighborhood craps on my landscaping and enters the yar and attacks my dog, sometimes in roaming packs of 3 or 4. In addition contractor's should be required to tie their dogs up at the construction site or leave them home!!! View complete survey for this response 648.On the leash law owner's of dogs should be held responsible for all dogs actions (i.e., fines).View complete survey for this response 649. While I appreciate the "urban and country club" ammenities, TD's primary strength as far as i'm concerned is its "green" nature. Invariably, my activities at TD will include a walk, hike, run, or backcountry ski with a family member (including my dog). TD is not northstar or squaw. Lets keep it unspoiled. Thanks for asking. View complete survey for this response 650. Thank you for doing this survey! I hope this information will help determine the proper allocation of funds for any capitol improvements. View complete survey for this response ie) Trout creek vs. ski lodge etc. 651. The trout creek recreation center workout areas are too small in my opinion. It looks fantastic with the grand hallways and all, but why make the rooms so small. That was a bad idea why are we building it in the first place? More room throughout. View complete survey for this response 652. Would like more information access to Euer Valley, and where the property is in Euer Valley. I would love to hike there. IF you have any info, please send to Edwards 15031 Lou Loma Dr Los Altos Hills, CA 94022 View complete survey for this response 653. We are still incredulous at the crazy decision to sell the acerage to DEVELOPERS 2 years ago at a pittance (Donner Crest) when ever at that time it was obvious that they would make millions. Was there cronyism involved? Are paybacks involved? Many of us newcomers are wondering how that deal could have ever happened. Looks like terrible fiscal accountability which makes us vote NO on proposals to spend $. we are warned about the vision of the leaders if such a terrible decision is already on the books. View complete survey for this response 654.The assn should stick to its knitting and stay out of the for profit or LOSS real estate business and leave that to those wanting to take such risks. View complete survey for this response 655. Dog control is a recurring concern. TDA should establish an off leash dog park on assn property. Dog owners could then exercise dogs and keep them on leash in other public places. if they can run free in an off leash dog park. View complete survey for this response 656.We love the golf course but are frusterated when the course is closed. We are chased off when walking on the cart paths. We enjoy using it during the off season as well as the golf season. View complete survey for this response 657. It is a terrible idea to start a for profit real estate business. Leave the real estate business to the experts. It remains to be seen if the restaurant at the Lodge is going to be a money maker or loser. I hope you folks pay attention to this survey, you sure did not when it came to the golf course renovation survey. Thanks. View complete survey for this response 658.Spend some capital on the downhill area. It needs it!View complete survey for this response 659.Stop raising assessments.View complete survey for this response 660.Complete the upgrade to the golf course renovate/improve what we have now, please.View complete survey for this response 661. The assn is working in the right direction. All rec facilities should be expanded due to increased usage, if able. The completed golf course renovation will result in more revenue and enhanced value for all. The plan to underground utilities is a bad idea. The estimated costs can only go higher. The asnn only has to look at what happened to sw gas' costs in providing natural gas - it costs a lot to cut into granite! View complete survey for this response 662.Your ideas regarding dog leash rules are a waste of time and my money.View complete survey for this response 663. The downhill and xc centers should stay open for the Local (april 17-23) spring break, especially when there is plenty of snow on the ground. Grooming at the xc cetner has been unacceptable the last few weeks. View complete survey for this response 664. 1. We wish the assn would enforece the rules/regulations already inplace before creating new rules. Fore example, the speeding on TD streets. We understand that the town of truckee is responsible for enforcing the law, but it constantly needs to be reminded of speed. 2. We are passholders at both xc and downhill area and from what we have noticed, we could have skied at both places without purchasing passes. No checking in place especially at XC, over 50 days there, not once checked! View complete survey for this response 665. 1. Both the downhill ski area and the XC center have retail stores. The downhill ski lodge needs more space. Perhaps this is also true for XC. I suggest the retail operations be terminated and the space put to better use. This suggestion is made on the assumption that profits from these operations are not worth the loss of space. There are adequated retail stores in truckee. Perhaps both centers could keep a small inventory for purchase by people who have forgotten their mitts, View complete survey for this response goggles, etc. 2. I recommend the assn publish a statement to all potential purchasers of property in TD. This would explain the philosophy and goals of the HOA. I intend that such a statement encourage those whose preferences are in line with those of the assn to buy and those whose preferences are not to go elsewhere. 3. The assn should have a supply of sand bags availabel for use by home owners in the event of flooding. In the storms at the end of 2005 the town exhausted its supply. 666. Do not give 5 year contract extensions to anyone especially the General Manager. Don't waste money on surveys for stupid proposals such as skate board parks. The Lodge & restaurant staff have done a great job in our new facility. If people don't like to pay for all the great amenities - let them move on. View complete survey for this response 667. In general, a disproportionate amount of money is being spent on golf course. Only a few play and many have to pay lots of money. These people should more to retirement golf course community, not the mountains. Marina is too small. Need another ladder into lake. Kids menopolize 1 ladder. Have requested this several times. Never gotten an reply. Teenagers who work at Trout Creek are generally very lax about enforcing rules. They need to be trained better. Love the tennis facilities and activities. View complete survey for this response 668. possibly expand activities at pool and at northwoods to offset overcrowding at trout creek, beach marina is also getting very crowded, will it be able to handle future growth? please keep the bar and grill open at northwoods during the summer. nice to have for the kids to have for more casual dining for families. would be nice to have a quick hot dog/snack @ the turn-$7 hot dogs are a bit steep,(where the old snack bar was View complete survey for this response 669. Too much money is being spent on activities which benefit only those who live at TD full time. Activities such as day camps ought to be self supporting. Our family rarely uses TD facilities & prefer other Tahoe recreation areas. It isn't fair for us to pay for facilities that condo renters utilize for almost no cost. Those who use a facility should pay the cost of operating the facility. In general, it seems the 2nd home owners have little input yet bear the burden of support for the association. View complete survey for this response 670. The TD assoc. should not get petty with small details. TD assoc. should make rules for a larger picture. Steer away from becoming drunk with your power, please. View complete survey for this response 671. over all great job! we love TD (: we need to find a way to underground utilities perhaps we could do this street by street or unit by unit if there are those who dont want to participate. if establishing a for-profit company would help pay for undergrounding utilities that would be great. we have to underground them if we want to stay competitive with the new developments in martis. please get a new logo on the sign at the entrance to northwoods, the current one is so '90s 672. We use the beach club very frequently. I believe we should have indoors showers in both the mens and ladies rest rooms so that we can have a hot shower with soap. Possibly more eating tables in the grassy area with umbrellas, near the snack shop. View complete survey for this response 673.Making a excellant golfing facility would be my first priority.View complete survey for this response 674. We have spent millions of dollars on improvements of golf/lodge facilities, a recreation that is not unique to TD. And yet our ski area could be expanded to include a more beautiful hill that lies behind the existing ski area. This would not encroach on teh existing XC track, which runs along the top of this hill. View complete survey for this response 675. It seems to me that our association dues are still pretty reasonable. I don't think we should be afraid to raise them if we need to, to maintain our facilities. But let's not get carried away with new projects and expansions. View complete survey for this response I know it's been considered before, but I still wonder if there's some way for the association to collect some additional fees when properties are sold, rather than trying to get a cut of the real estate commissions. 676. Other family member and guests enjoy all the amenities and facilities. We go up especially for R&R, fresh mtn air, and beauty of nature, as well as access to fishing etc. So we do not see the need to spend a lot more money on upgrading amenities. View complete survey for this response 677. With respect to the for profit proposal: I would be more in favor of a "transfer fee" each time a property sold. It could be based on the sale price. This would not take a significant capital commitment or time use. With respect to the Trout Creek plan: I said "no" because it includes a snack bar. We have had virtually zero success with food places. I would change my mind perhaps if it were more picnic, bring your own food type area. I wonder how many skateboarders there really are also. View complete survey for this response 678. We repeatedly find dog excrement on our driveway and entry sidewalk during the winter when these areas are plowed/shoveled. We understand leash laws may not help, but how can we improve dog owner responsibility? View complete survey for this response 679. Golf course upgrade was undertaken by Board after the association voted no on upgrade. This is a violation of the Board's fiduciary responsibility to homeowners. Golf course costs are highest by far of all amenities. User fees - especially season pass fees, need to be raised to offset this costly business. View complete survey for this response 680.expand the downhill ski area. especially the cafeteria. i would support an entity created to provide home management but not real estate sales. View complete survey for this response 681.We use the beach next to the marina with our dog more than the marina. The Golf course is our best asset. View complete survey for this response 682. I personally feel that cost to ski the downhill runs are expensive for owners and guest/grandchildren especially grandchildren. Slow down the traffic on Bennet Flat Rd. Speed bumps? Encourage property owners to police their yards from litter and construction debres. Enforce rules on dogs at construction sites. Attempt to hold association due stable for 2 years and alternate periods. THanks for asking. View complete survey for this response 683.We've nearly sold our property due to the dog problems (poop, barking, vicious,etc)View complete survey for this response 684.i am opposed to the utilities underground. too expensive and not necessary!View complete survey for this response 685.concerned with leash laws that might be implemented, not in favor og burying telephone lines X-C resort is our favorite facility View complete survey for this response 686.How about a miniture golf course for kids, with adjoining pizzaria/burger hut. Need more outlets for older kids. View complete survey for this response 687. Could each property have a debit card for using amenities? ie $500 or $1000 per property and then pay additional if needed. Som of us seldom use it while others use every day. Needs to be more equitable. View complete survey for this response 688. Fire the architects who designed the Lodge and Trout Creek expansion. What a WASTE OF MONEY! We have, quite possibly, the highest ratio of corridor to useful space at both facilities. Maybe hire somebody who understands that buildings are for people to use, not just to look at. Stop hasseling golfers. Management force the staff to comply with very antagonistic practices concering i.d.'s. If I golf every day, then they know me. If I forget my pass, I'm screwed. I won't be buying a pass at TD this year because of that. No public club would stay in business if they treated their members that way. Xcountry - JOJO does amazing things considering the ridiculous restraints she has to deal with. I couldn't find any link to the info re: Trout Creek expansion, but based on the recent failure of the Trout Creek expansion, I don't want to throw any more money down that hole. View complete survey for this response 689. The association should require residents/visitors to pick up after their dogs. put the proceeds from the 32 acres in the bank & use the interest to offset operations costs. View complete survey for this response Enough with the golf course. 690.Poorly designed survey. I hope we didn't pay much for this. Focus on reducing expenses.. not adding amenities and increasing assesments. View complete survey for this response 691. Please redo our assessment invoices. They are confusing and do not provide enough information on the invoice. Also, I have left messages and never had them returned. View complete survey for this response 692.Don't think any more amenities should be added at this time. Concentrate on making the existing ones profitable and adequately maintained. View complete survey for this response 693. The prices at the new Lodge are some of the highest in the area. Since they don't pay the high Truckee rents that other restaurants pay their price point should be lower. What does the golf pro do all winter? Train the golf staff on customer service! Enjoy most amenities and staff. View complete survey for this response 694. We have been disappointed in the cleaniness of the fitness center. It is too crowed and needs continous cleaning. Also, we chose a home in Tahoe Donner in part because we have dogs and appreciate the ability to have places to let them run. The people who are "pressing" the leash issue should go live in the city. View complete survey for this response 695.Leash law - dogs that are not under voice control chase cars, runners, walkers, bikers, need to be supervised. Existing laws should be sufficient- a notice to all dog owners would be appropriate. View complete survey for this response 696. I tried to answer the on-line survey twice- but each time, after spending 30 mins- it refused to accept my entry because I did not want to rank all the various "plans" the assoc is considering- as I believe that gave tacit approval to those plans and I do not agree w/any. View complete survey for this response 697. 1. We need more hiking trails 2. We need to undergroung utilities however the TDPUD, SBC and cable tv companies must bear the cost since this is a betterment to them. They will realize a significant saving in terms of overall operation and maintenance costs. As a compromise, share the initial capital cost. TD will fund Civil work and all other costs by the utilities. View complete survey for this response 698.How about better enforcement of leash restriction while dogs are on their own property. Also some poop pickup policy for the evails. View complete survey for this response 699. We should expand the downhill ski area to the top of the hill and have longer ski runs by installing a new chair lift. I know this issue has been raised and failed more than ten years ago, but it is time to raise this issue again. A lot of customers would use the facility if there are longer ski runs. I would increase the values of the houses in TD. View complete survey for this response 700. The remodeling of Trout Creek Recreation Center was outstanding. Welove the new facilities and like the idea of expanded Outdoor Center. The Lodge has been another outstanding addition to Tahoe Donner - "yeah" a beautiful lodge with friendly servers and great food. View complete survey for this response 701.We feel the Tahoe DOnner News publication should be sent out quarterly rather than monthly. The savings in publication and mailing costs would well be worth the change. View complete survey for this response 702.We support all efforts to improve amenities View complete survey for this response 703.if you have ever been to the marina you would know that this area gets a LOT of use and could use some more area which is overcrowded plus some more sand! View complete survey for this response 704.It would be nice to have a teenager friendly environment for example a n arcade type location where the old restaurant bar was at the Northwoods Clubhouse. View complete survey for this response 705. I have often seen large dogs hanging out in groups of 2 or 3 running free. Being a small dow owner who abides by the leash law, I am often frightened for my and my dog's safety. A neighbor had on 2 separate occasions her dogs attacked in her driveway - one injured and one killed. It is important to enforce leash control. View complete survey for this response 706. We feel Trout Creek's new cardio and weight rooms are already overstressed; even midweek we often find all the machines full. The association should consider remodeling to beter utilize all the extensive hall space which is currently wasted, and add more equipment - especially elliptical View complete survey for this response trainers. We really appreciate the HOA's efforts to improve ocmmunication over the past few years. Great job! 707. Before you pour $$ into an outdoor area that can only be used 2 or 3 months out of the year, how about another lift at the ski hill? I feel that would be a better use of money and something our family would take advantage of way more. View complete survey for this response 708. as a responsible dog owner who does not let her dogs run loose in td, i feel very strongly that we should not be required to leash our dogs while walking them on paths and roadways in td. i recognize that there are owners who let their dogs run free unsupervised which is a problem that needs to be corrected. but in doing so, please do not punish us all!! View complete survey for this response 709.PLEASE UPGRADE THE SKI HILL, MORE CHAIR LIFTS, MORE RUNS View complete survey for this response 710. The assoc knows how to make rules but only enforces them selectively (ie lights at nite- no one monitors that rule) garbage mess is not addressed, broken garbage can enclosures not fixed for years, the customer service offered is so poor (except tennis and forester employees) that we choose not to use the facilities unless necessary for guests. The dog issue (roaming free) is the reason we plan to move from this community. TD needs to get a better grip on controlling this community and serving their residents. View complete survey for this response 711.the equipment in the weight room is not geared for short women. i wrote a comment and a request several months ago, asked but never received a reply- carol sund View complete survey for this response 712. There is far too much complaining about paying for amentities that a property owner does not use (i.e. golf course). Themenities are part of the total package at Tahoe Donner that makes the development such a unique place. The broad range of amenities fits people of all ages, skill levels and overall interest. As soneone said in the Tahoe Donner News, "If you don't like it, move!!" People need to stay off the golf course during the winter...more signs needed. View complete survey for this response 713. golf course- VERY disappointing, condition should be fixed before ding any additional projects i.e. trout creak, undergrounding, etc. should be all completed THIS season. resources directed here and secondly FIX current ski area facilities- no new building another issue for me and my family of 5 was the replacement of northwoods clubhouse food facility with a too small one at tc. we have never been able to eat there- too crowded- way too small for good residence area. reopen nw clubhouse as a casual cafe/bar. leash laws needed. too many dogs out without owners. voice comman NOT workable. my daughter will not walk her leashed dog in many areas due to aggressive animals. View complete survey for this response 714. We feel disenfranchised as homeowners of Tahoe Donner. the last survey in which you asked about re-designing the golf course was ignored. The homeowners responded in the negative - not wanting to spend the money and wanting the golf course to remain as it was. You have maneuvered around and under the guise of maintenance. You have spent the money and redesigned the golf course to make it "more user friendly". In other wordsdumbed down an excellent and challenging golf course. We have answered this survey but do not have high expectations that you will honor the wishess of the homeowner population. View complete survey for this response 715.the process we use to charge visitors is completely unfair and problematic.View complete survey for this response 716. it would be nice to have at trout creek recreation center a room with ping pong tables, air hockey and pool tables in it thank you View complete survey for this response 717. we love skiing at td and would love to see it expanded especially the cafeteria. another pool at trout creek with waterslides would also be a great idea. a snack bar at the pool area is needed or a gate to the deli. View complete survey for this response 718. I think the Board has been too aggressive in planning. We have been charged every year for increases in our maneities. It is amazing to see the amount of money the Board has to work with. When you multiply the amenity charge by 6,000 plus lots, one wonders how it is all spent and they want more! We need Board members to be more careul with out money. Homeowners are not the World Bank!! View complete survey for this response 719.i support the trout creek expansion as long as it includes a rec room for kids and teens with pool tables, ping pong, some video games, etc. in my opinion, there is a definate need for this. View complete survey for this response 720. It may have been the initial budget cuts that decreased size of lodge but I now find it a disppointment. Excellent restaurant but no "lodge" for to facility. The northwoods clubhouse when the restaurant was there had more of a lodge feeling and appears much more functional. View complete survey for this response 721.a skateboard park can bring a lot of unwanted problems and liability View complete survey for this response 722.I appriciate you asking for members opinions View complete survey for this response 723. We have owned our home for 8.5 years. During that time we have had just a few occisions where help from the association would have bben helpful. We are sorry to say that the assoication to this day has never responded. I went to the association clubhouse, gave them all 3 phone numbers, followed up by calling 3 different times and again no response. If you are interested in any details, feel free to call us at 530-582-9946 or 925-443-4794 or 925-580-8086. View complete survey for this response 724.You might consider getting a more pleasant group of people to run the golf course!!!!View complete survey for this response 725. the money gained by selling the 32 acres should be used to buy more open space to be used for hiking, biking, snowshoeing. the reason people come to tahoe donner is for tranquillity, spending more money on the trout creek rec center or the golf coursen only benifits those who use those facilities. however the tranquility of open space benifits every homeowner "on the hill" View complete survey for this response 726. undergrounding too expensive per household. perhaps use of roundabouts could slow traffic yet keep it moving at northwoods and northwoods. new trails are great! we need more yard cleanup days-drop off should be once a month. View complete survey for this response 727. Major issue we have is noise/dust traffic & parking violations by contractors/homebuilders. Owners aren't around to police contractor behavior and as a result peace/quiet and appearance suffer. Staff at ski hill is FIVE STAR especially Shelly & the Rec team coaches. View complete survey for this response 728. The "new" lodge: Who was the architect? The sound quality is horrible. The entry way is totally wasted space. The main dining room is too small. I would have expected something more grand in scale. And the most annoying feature is the maitre d' is not only curt, but is not welcoming, has an attitude, and is in no way accommodating. He acts as if he's some important person at some New York "hot spot"! He has NEVER been pleasant and is totally rude whenever I've called or come in. You really need to dump him. He is not an asset to our community. I'd rather frequent Moody's than be greeted by a nasty maitre d' that "works" for us! View complete survey for this response 729.I believe the current administration is one of the best since we moved to Trudkee 21 years ago.View complete survey for this response 730.hiking traqils need improved signs and maintainance View complete survey for this response 731.No season passes issued for golf View complete survey for this response 732.AS we hae said many times the cost to use Tahoe Donner is quite expensive View complete survey for this response 733.No, on underground utilities.View complete survey for this response 734.Spend money on improvements to the T.D cross country ski area; the only amenity that has national recognition! View complete survey for this response 735. I think we should be careful no to "suburbanize" Tahoe Donner. We live in the mountains. We're not a "golf course" community, per se, and anyone who chooses that lifestyle probably would not choose to own a home where the greens and the tennis courts are covered in snow half the year. thanks View complete survey for this response 736.I agree with others that a %fee be tied to a sell of property to be paid by buyers that we be used to offset association dues or for the use of improvements. View complete survey for this response 737.you need to remember this place is for the owners not profit. Its your job to cater to the property owner not the public View complete survey for this response 738. I would be concerned about the association competing against some of our residents in R.E sales. I think if the association could consider a re management service because it seems the association could provide a service that is currently lacking it the area. View complete survey for this response 739. The TDA needs a more comprehensive inspection and enforcement policy regarding existing home maintenance. There are way too many homes in need of repair, paint and new roofs. Many areas are in need of immediate repair. View complete survey for this response 740.As an owner of a vacant lot - we feel the unfairness of high association fees for amenities never used. View complete survey for this response 741. Believe that TDA should be more in focus to the beautiful area and not so concerned as to whether or not there is adequate facilities for everyone at all times, thus keeping the annual association dues down - how about a decrease rather than annual increase - I own a home and lot for 15 years and can not recall when the annual dues dropped. Any annual increases to various amenities should be passed on to those who actually use the amenity not the homeowners at large. What exists is great leave it alone - consider maintaining good maintenance/operation not expansion. View complete survey for this response 742. I wasn't able to elaborate on the questions re: the golf course, but suffice it to say that the course is wonderful, staff friendly, it's just too bad one can't get a tee time. there are more tournaments, events, clubs, etc. that hold the tee times and make it virtually impossible for others to get a tee time - especially on weekends. We mere mortals would love to play but it is darn near impossible. It is difficult for us to endorse the capital expenditures for the golf course when we don't have the ability to have access to it. Old Greenwood is looking very attractive because of their golf availability. View complete survey for this response 743. Mostly I use Downhill, Aldercreek and Golf Course. Aldercreek service and facilities are excellent. Downhill rental shop service is average/poor. Beach Marina service is average/poor. When I went to check out new lodge with family, they were not attentive, so we left and never tried the restaurant yet. Most areas of deficiency are due to inexperienced and young employees. I've also ...this area is not diverse racially, and have felt discriminated vs local residents, as far as service. View complete survey for this response 744.I feel the golf course enhances everybody's property value. It is an asset to the community.View complete survey for this response 745. Please restrict or prohibit the use of our facilities by non-members, non-guests i.e., an exchange for services. Especially Trout Creek. Members paid for it and it should be reserved for them. My family has tried to use the golf course but due to programs (tournaments, etc.) were never able to get tee times. They gave up. Tahoe Donner is getting more and more expensive. It is pricing us out. View complete survey for this response 746. I would rather that amenities be self-supporting in their operating budgets since we don't use very many facilities. The annual fees have reached the point where we have to consider leaving the Tahoe Donner family. We built in the late 70's so we have been around through many changes. View complete survey for this response 747. Leash control - perhaps a change would not be warranted but as far as we experience even the existing rules are not enforced our children are frequently approached in our yard by "free" dogs. Speeding seems to be a big issue not discussed here - especially on main routes such as Hansel Ave - rush hour speeds especially exceed 40mph! any consideration for stop signs along the way? This is all residential and no sidewalks for walkers or dogs. Thank you. View complete survey for this response 748. When our children (who are now in college) were younger we used the facilities a lot. I'm not as familiar with them now. I still don't think that the "32 acres" should have been sold. View complete survey for this response 749.We need more information on costs for the subsidiary. How long before profitable? How long will it run n the red before we give it up? View complete survey for this response 750.TD golf course is poorer than the worst in the area (Tahoe City). Prices to the public should be $35/18 holes with electric cart and $15 for property owners. It has ben this bad, over 6 years. View complete survey for this response 751. This refers to for profit subsidiary of the association: If people want to go into private business they should use their own money to go into private business. Not use any of the association's money for any of this area! WE STRONGLY ARE AGAINST THIS IDEA! View complete survey for this response 752. Each of our partners use the house 2-3 weeks per year. The amenity policy is not friendly to homeowners like us. I often spend $20.00 per day, just for my family (each partner has 1/4 passes). We love Tahoe Donner, and hope the next time the amenity policy is reviewed, the plan is more user friendly to those of us who pay dues, and only use the services in a limited manner. View complete survey for this response 753.1) Perception: Association caters to wealthier residents and is pushing middle income out. View complete survey for this response 2)BOD has done well identifying objectives and made nice strides in fiscal responsibility. 3) I still perceive the association spends too freely when it may not be necesssary i.e., amenity upgrades, sidewalls, fountains, etc. I also perceive we are not putting jobs out to bid fully. Does the association give bid award preference to local companies? likfe friends? It should not. If a Sacramento or Reno company can do a good job cheaper, they should get the contract. Local companies must be competitive. 754.I would like any excess funds - money from sale of property 2 years ago to be put toward undergrounding utility wires and cables. View complete survey for this response 755. 1) Please make the TD downhill ski center more attractive to owners. Special rates, events, programs, could be offered to members to entice us (keep us local). 2) Please use space at the pool for 2 permanent sand (deep) volley ball courts. I know there is great interest and proximity to the pool would be perfect. I would be happy to help out. View complete survey for this response 756. I strongly oppose the for profit subsidiary. I feel the board should concentrate on the things that are now covered with the association. After a 5-year plan is produced and funds are required then funding sources should be worked out and dues raised if necessary. Trying to use up stream profits from a business venture to cover future costs are too unsure a source and the source siphons off both money and man power and leaves the association board open for all sorts of future problems, not the least being liabilities from the for-profit venture. View complete survey for this response 757. I do not believe in the association being involved in "for profit" business (too complex and insecure). I do not believe in the excessive costs for modifying the above to below ground -... system too costly. No advantages. Would impact some property owners too much. View complete survey for this response 758. I take exception to the association EVER aking information or membership surveys (such as the General Plan Committee's) soley available through the association's website. Such actions presupposes that all members have and will use computer access, but such action by members is not a precondition of belonging to the association. By making information and surveys available only on the web, you keep part of membership in the dark - at best, and disenfranchises some of the membership, at worst. Is that legal? You've got a monthly newsletter. Use it. View complete survey for this response 759. Longer hours for driving range. Pursue ice rink/skating center. Pursue sledding area w/tow. Keep lap pool open year round. Keep kitchen open later during holiday and vacation periods. View complete survey for this response 760. Golf course should not be open to the public at any time. Trout Creek/Poorly designed. View complete survey for this response 761.I do not support the utility conversion to underground status. I do not want to spend erned uontery funds or enncur a loan to proceed in this direction. View complete survey for this response 762. The consideration of undergrounding utilities has been a terrible waste of our money. The costs are prohibitive (obviously) for any more exploration of this venture. I do not want to increase the expense of living here; I do not want to drive through and witness a road construction nightmare for many years, and whoever ok'd the study for this should reimburse the money wasted! Keep the roads maintained instead of researching ways to ruin them. Keep costs down! That should be your primary objective, as a responsible Association who supposedly is looking out for our best interest. Reimburse the money, and don't do it by assessing the homeowners. Assess those responsible for spending it unnecessarily. View complete survey for this response 763. My fondest hope is that by the association's continued mismanagement some owner/lawyers will be so outraged that they will start the necessary work to break this association. Sincerely, Dues Paying Member View complete survey for this response 764. Please consider having the Trout Creek staff wear some type of uniform shirt. They have a very sloppy appearance. They also should have some sort of grooming standards because most of the group look very grungy and sloppy. Thank you. View complete survey for this response 765. Page 21 - Real Estate Subsidiary - Instead of trying to mge. it ourselves, how about just setting up a convenent that takes .25 or some other % of brokers fees for each sale? Then we wouldn't need staff or expertise!! View complete survey for this response 766. Management has more than it can do without going into the realty business. We are a home owner's association, let's leave it that way. There is nothing wrong with getting interest on the $ from the 32 acres. Use it on something truly needed to save an increase in the annual dues. I am opposed to placing the utilities underground. View complete survey for this response 767. Lodge menu prices too high. Special occasion restaurant. Early bird good value but we don't like to eat that early. More pasta items=cheaper prices; re $15.00 offer steak sandwich or dinner menu- $15-$16. Northwoods should continue summer BBQ lunches only - burgers, chicken, hot dogs and bucket of sodas - Bar and grill should NOT reopen. Food @ Lodge is excellent - just too pricey. Trout Creek should try a "curves" program for women - more programs for seniors - have "learn the machines" day - Property owners should get discount @ Lodge - corkage fee should be $5 for prop owners and free if prop owner also buys bottle of wine. Early Bird special @ Lodge could be choice of 2 or 3. Don't like "not knowing' until that day. Dessert should be set = don't like having server tell us @ 5:30 that the chef doesn't know yet. View complete survey for this response 768. Expanding Trout Creek as proposed is an extravagant expenditure. Improve the infrastructure already there. Spend the money on trail access and crater trails above the golf course so we aren't chased off by your "monitors". We use the golf course as a recreation source for "all" members. Don't spend another penny on the golf course. View complete survey for this response 769. I would rather see the existing amenities kept up and as needed expanded or upgraded than feasibility studies on real estate division or underground utilities. The time has come and gone for underground utilities to be done on a subdivision wide basis and be cost acceptable. A property owner can do this on an individual basis if a view is very obstructed on their view property. Keeping HOA dues and assessments down is the largest concern and as a realtor it is most important to my potential business and for property desirability in TD. View complete survey for this response 770. My family and I ahve a place at the Tahoe Donner Lodge near the ski hill. Our biggest objections are to the fees we have to pay by our CCRs. We are not allowed to stay at our place more than a couple weeks. We find it hard to understand why our fees should be the same as everybody else that has the ability to live in their residence year round. I ask the association to consider reducing our fees. I don't believe the impact would be that severe to the association. We are hoping that can occur soon. Our condo association is looking to bring this up for discussion with the board soon. I look forward to any comments about my proposal. Thanks, Mike Eisenhart mikeandkime@msn.com 771. My personal belief is that the board of directors have foolishly spent members' monies on the study for underground power lines. The money could have been spent to improve the amenities (or some at least) of the development - to think that people would spend up to $50K per house is ridiculous seeing that many of the improvements just barely passed a few years ago. View complete survey for this response 772. We would like to see the Asssociation focus on further investing in the amenities RESIDENTS/HOMEOWNERS use such as Trout Creek. Would rather have a handful of amazing amenities than a dozen mediocre. View complete survey for this response 773. 1.Dog owners should be totally responsible for their dog & the behavior of the dog at all times. 2. Wait for a good project to spend the $2.9million from the 32 acre property sale, not the one shown for Trout Creek. 3. Closing the back nine until July will cost more than working on the 5 1/2 holes while play continues on those holes. Lack of play will be costly and very unpopular with members. View complete survey for this response 774. In regards to dogs on leashes - we have had several frightening experiences on our street and other streets in Tahoe Donner with dogs whose owners were nowhere to be found or 1/2 a block away. These dogs were aggressive and were NOT under voice control. On one morning walk on Bennett Flat, I was charged by a dog as he ran out of his garden and the owner ran after him and could not get him to turn around. The dog growled while the owner claimed he was "friendly". I View complete survey for this response have had dogs in my garage growling and snapping at us also jumping into my open car door. This has got to stop! It's irresponsible dog owners who are at fault and leashes are the only answer. P.S. They should carry "poop" bags and clean up after their dogs. 775. Leash Control: I personally believe dogs should always be under leash control except when constrained with private property. I also believe enforcement of leash control in the 2000 acres is impossible except at outrageous cost for unreasonable facilitation. View complete survey for this response 776.I would like to have Cingular Cellular phone service at my Tahoe Donner home. Currently I do not get a signal. View complete survey for this response 777.Food service at the Marina is very slow.View complete survey for this response 778. Tahoe Donner still has a nice cost/benefit ratio with regard to amenities & recreational facilities. We would like to see more programs for families & kids available at those facilities. I know programs have been unsuccessful (non-summer) at Trout Creek because of bad planning, implementation & management. More & more families, baby boomers with grandchildren, etc, want a family friendly environment in T.D. Including the winter season months! There are enough summer programs. Please bring back family friendly food/bev at Northwoods Clubhouse in summer. View complete survey for this response 779.The new Lodge is great - but already too small. Consider expanding the facility.View complete survey for this response 780. It is very confusing for a second homeowner to keep up with the constant bickering of board members and the association in general. The associations goal should work to unigy and concentrate on the "good for all" which means "property values"! This is one common denominator that no one will disagree. Besides enjoying a beautiful place we "all" want what is best for "property values" no matter what amenities we enjoy individually. I belong to 3 hoa's and this is the most difficult to follow. View complete survey for this response 781. For being such a large neighborhood association I am pleased with the responsible manner that you have handled sensitive issues. I feel confident that the final decisions hade in regards to managing the amenities with have the best outcome. View complete survey for this response 782.Have some better tee times for out of town residents, 12-14 days is too far out to make plans.View complete survey for this response 783. I feel STRONGLY that Tahoe Donner Association SHOULD limit its activities and responsibilities to the following: 1 ) Monitor and manage the safety and wellbeing of the community 2) Keep community-approved projects on-schedule and on-budget. I feel STRONGLY that Tahoe Donner association SHOULD NOT: 3) Create a real estate/property management subsidiary of the association. 4) Undertake any projects or expenditures that are not specifically approved by the homeowners. 5) Make any more land-use or land-sale decisions without a community vote. The sale of the 32 acres, resulting in 82 new homes and excess traffic on Northwoods Blvd., was a very bad decision. If homeowners had been allowed to vote, I believe the decision would have been to retain the land as open-space. It's very telling that association management and directors cited a reluctance to get in the real estate business as one of the rationales for selling the 32 acres, but are now offering up the idea of getting in the real estate business. View complete survey for this response 784. Over the course of 20 years being a full time resident here in Tahoe Donner, I have seen a lot of good things come out of the association. Overall, it's a great place to live. However, in recent years, I have seen the association make some very poor decisions with regards to some of our amenities. Specifically; the decision to build The Lodge and close the Clubhouse Bar & Grill was not well thought out whatsoever. To date, my family and friends have yet to visit The Lodge, and sorely miss the Clubhouse Bar & Grill. It's a shame that the association decided to close that wonderful longstanding establishment. There has been a consistent desire by the association to continually pour money into the golf course and Trout Creek. Our belief is that Trout Creek has seen plenty of our money and we don't golf, so we are sick and tired about hearing how the golf course is in a state of need. On that note, it's high time we spent some of our association monies on the ski area. Our children learned to ski there, and their ski team still trains there on a regular basis. Tahoe Downhill Ski Area is absolutely fantastic, and it is suffering from benign neglect. The staff at the ski area is exemplary. The facilities are good. However it's apparent that the ski area is the step child of the View complete survey for this response association. Every winter, the ski area creates a future legacy with downhill skiers. It's time our association invests some of our capital there in the means of expansion. If there's one amenity which warrants additional investment, the downhill ski area is it. 785. Hi, we purchased our home in Tahoe Donner in June 2004, and we wanted to forward some additional comments - opinions and areas that we don't completely understand; a "newbie" perspective, in case it's helpful. Amenities: We purchased our home because of its location and CC&Rs; we weren't aware of most of the amenitites beforehand. The Marina, Trout Creek, and the trail network were happy surprises. What we like most about the Marina is its location on Donner Lake and the opportunity to lounge on the beach every so often. We rarely use the facilities other than the restrooms. Trout Creek is also great; we like having seperate pools for adults and families and the new exercise areas are useful and well-equipped (cardio room more so than the weight room; but it's a pretty small room for weight machines, so we understand that choices had to be made). The only other facilities we use are the trails around th perimeter, their linkage with the Emigrant trail, and trails near the croo-counrty/equestrian center. We use them for hiking and biking. Dogs: The existing rules seem sufficient but seem hard to enforce even as they are. OUr main concens with dogs are loose, unattended dogs and dogs barking past 10 or 11 PM at night. (Both happen often, expecially during summer months. One dog on our street seems to be alone and outside all the time, even in the winter - but we're reluctant to say anything that might have the owners get rid of him - he seems well fed and has a thick coat.) Finances: The board sounds concerned about future/upcoming costs. We read the RD magazine and the annual budget, but we aren't clear about overall issues and options. For example: If amenities stay as they are, without expansion but with sufficient budgeting for maintenance to ensure quality and safety, what sorts of yearly costs might we expect over the next 10 or 20 years? We'd like to keep, maintain and (over time) improve amenities that are well-used and not costing general membership for the benefit of a realtively small number of members. For amenities that are continually and substantially subsidized by the general membership with proportionally low use by members, are there any options for transitioning them to some other use? We realize this is a complex issue and would like to know more about it. What are the limitations and opportunities possible from (a) funds from the sale of the 32 acres, and (b) town taxes reserved for Tahoe Donner use? We'd vote for closing the lap pool in the winter. We appreciate having the spas open; perhaps they could be covered in the evening to reduce costs (if they aren't already being covered when the area is closed). Regarding the utilities survey - rather than undergrounding the utilities, which sounds aesthetically beneficial but expensive, has there been any discussion about other utility or service changes? For example, we'd love to see water meters added to homes (from cost and environmental perspectives) and/or additional postal services within Tahoe Donner. It sounds like some early agreements were made between the developers, the association, and the Town of Truckee - if so, some might be worth re-evaluating. Finally, regarding a real estate brokerage and property management service - it sound like this is an attempt to bring income to the association to offset costs. We've purchased or sole many homes over the decades and are hisitant to vote for this option, though we don't know enough about the overall issue to suggest other alternatives. Fundamentally, there are already real estate businesses locally; the market is subject to cycles and trends; and we'd be adding infrastructure complexity, etc. that could end up costing us money despite best efforts. You've probably heard all of this before; thanks for listening and for your work toward the continued quality and great environment of Tahoe Donner. 786.I have submitted two ideas on the online suggestion form - never got a response to either one. That's bad - one can only assume no one is paying attention to the suggestions. View complete survey for this response 787.It would be good for the assn. to specifically addressing the benifits it provides to non-resident owners. From what I heard, more than 50% of the units are not primary residences. View complete survey for this response 788. 1. I wish the assn would negotiate with the PUD regarding their practice of charging part time residents higher rates than those whose primary residence is Tahoe Donner. They have been uncooperatiove and unresponsive when I have asked for the rationale for this practice. I wonder if its actually legal! 2. In reading the TD News, I sense a change in the roll of the assocition. My concern is that its being used as a club for power happy committees who raise fines from $200 to $1000 because $200 isn't punitive enough; and for people who, rather than talking directly to their neighbors, prefer to bring the full force of the assn to bear when they have a complaint. Be careful lest you become a tool for cowardly bullies and people with alterior motives. View complete survey for this response 789.Dog leash control - To include, impose & implement dog waste removal by dog owners, on all public areas, to avoid the membership stepping on them. View complete survey for this response 790.I feel tahoe Donner has grown enough to justify another outdoor pool facility. Trout Creek gets too crowed. View complete survey for this response 791.Please continue to expand the trail system. Thank you.View complete survey for this response 792.The architect standards office needs much improvement. They send our rude notices without checking out the facts first. View complete survey for this response 793.only if the proceeds from the above mentioned 32 acres are used, within budget so that no additional fees have to be assessed. View complete survey for this response 794. I believe the "guest" fees should be increased at the Trout Creek center. Far too many people use the facility in summer, many because it's a cheap place for babysitters to take their charges or large families want to picnic all day. Usually ending with kids throwing up in the pool after gorging themselves on junk food. Recommend any child who pollutes the pool the parent be billed for clean up. View complete survey for this response 795. The new restaurant at the golf course is elegant, but it has lost the relaxed family atmosphere that was so nice at the clubhouse. I am not interested in paying a fortune for some fancy dinner with a bar full of egotistical high-rollers. I liked the clubhouse because the food was good and reasonably priced. It also offered room for young families to relax. I really hope our organization continues to keep young families' needs at the top of the list while keeping the costs within reason for all families. View complete survey for this response 796. Please be moderate in the expansion of Trout Creek. We do not need a lifesized video game at Trout Creek. Please have the activites be appropriate to a serene mountain setting. No skateboard park for example. View complete survey for this response 797. NO SKATEPARK! Trout Creek: men's locker room needs softer floor matting Marina: dredge an additional 2 feet deeper (sloping) between end o framp and swim area. View complete survey for this response 798. Unfortunately we do not live in Tahoe Donner. We has dreams, but ilness has prevented moving forward. With regard to leash laws, I commited based upon experiences I have has in other communities. View complete survey for this response 799. I live on Lusanne shich is highly trafficed road. 9 out of 10 cars go faster than the speed limit which is unsage for the children/dogs/families in our neighborhood. I would like to propose nore speed limit signs or "slow children at play signs" for this road so people will slow down. View complete survey for this response 800.We miss a restaurant that would be casual and family oriented. Just a last minute pop in kind of place. no reservation necessary. View complete survey for this response 801. My children have been knocked down several times by dogs whose owners are unapologetic and state "my dogs do not need to be on a leash, they are just playful". I think a leash law should be in effect throughout the association boundaries. View complete survey for this response 802. The Tahoe Donner Nordic Center is the best amenity we have. TDA needs to make sure the grooming is very well done at TDXC by making sure good groomers are hired. It should be considered a "world class" resort but it's reputation for shoddy grooming gives it a bad reputation. Please help the staff provide better grooming for season pass holders and day pass buyers. We View complete survey for this response also support purchase of ALL of Ever Valley. 803.Trout needs more elipticals.View complete survey for this response 804. Regarding the for profit.. i'm strongly against our HOA opening any type of profit business. I feel the HOA should try to master running a HOA before spreading too thin. I'm really not impressed with the lodge construction phase process and could only imagine how TDHOA will under estimate adn under produce a business. Having the HOA invloved in a for profit business really scares me. I would rather pay more dues and assessments. View complete survey for this response 805.Dont let the monkey's run the zoo.View complete survey for this response 806. We would love to contribute to expanding the ski hill terrain. ie: another lift to access the open space on other side of ski slope. WE feel trout creek mngmnt has been unmotivated to push through a successful child care program. Its not rocket science. Other compteting areas ie: northstar,etc. have it all up to date health facilities. I helped pay for the space and am willing to fork out good money for childcare. this needs to be a priority! View complete survey for this response 807. My main concern is keeping the annual homeowners dues to a minimum. I am a full time resident and I will soon be priced out of the nieghborhood if the dues keep going up. The amenities I use are the nordic center, weight room and marina. I am unhappy with the quality of the grooming at the XC center. It has been getting worse ever since Andrew Hall left. The weight room is too small. When there are more than 6-8 people in there at one time it is very cramped and uncomfortable. Lastly, please bring back breakfast (specifically the breakfast burrito) at the marina. Sorry to just list my gripes. There are lots of things about TD I think are great. View complete survey for this response 808. We bought property in TD because of other Tahoe communities. For 10+ years our neighborhood has been an industrial zone. Construction has been constant. There has been no monitoring by the association of contractor practices. Noise early, late weekends, yelling, loud music, portable toilets and construction trash on our street on an ongoing basis. There is no peace, no quiet for homeowners in established homes, no mountain environment- just more houses crowding into treeless lots. It has been very discouraging. View complete survey for this response 809. Although we use many of the amenities infrequently, we like the added value they give the area. As long as the recreation fee (annual) remains at a similar level, we will continue to support the facilities and pay our annual fees even if we dont get our full use of the facilities. View complete survey for this response 810. Our family lives overseas. WE ski lease our home for 5 months of the year. We enjoy TD for 2 months in the summer. Hiking, golf, skateboarding and mt. biking are our passions. That doesn't leave much time to spend on all the wonderful ammenities available to us. What to do!?! View complete survey for this response 811.The assn needs to look at speed control on northwoods. The reduction of the speed limit to a residential speed of 25mph would be much safer. 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