

COMMON GROUNDS COMMITTEE
JOSHUA TREE
NEW VENDOR–JOSHUA TREES
We are about ready to jump into a New Year and a new vendor for our trees. We welcome Joshua Trees, a highly respected company. They are licensed to work in and around any of the waterways; that includes the swales. They remove invasives, trim trees, clear the swales and waterways. Whenever they are here, there will be a certified arborist working alongside with the other workers.
They prune trees for many reasons; one is to ensure a strong structure. That helps a tree become more wind resistant. They trim a tree so it creates a balanced canopy. If it is unbalanced it is susceptible to breakage.
Pruning trees reduces the risk of damage during high winds, encouraging healthy growth of the branches. Pruning helps remove branches that rub against each other which can cause long-term damage. Your property value can be enhanced by well maintained trees as it enhances curb appeal. Well maintained trees provide safety for your family and home.
Joshua Trees will be in our community starting in January. You will be able to recognize them by their brightly colored green and yellow trucks. If you need help on your own personal property, you may hire them. They have worked for many of our residents who rave about them. They also have done some excellent work for our common grounds. If you need assistance call 239-888-6917.
FUN FACT
Here’s a fun fact: there is such a thing as a Joshua Tree, and Joshua Tree National park is located in Southern California.
ARCHITECTURAL REVIEW COMMITTEE (ARC) NEWS
KATHLEEN SCHAL
The Architectural Review Committee would like to introduce ourselves. My name is Kathy Schal, chair of the committee, and along with members David Boehm, Woodward Briggs, Jerry Powell and Pete Buechner, we are honored to be of service to the Villages of Country Creek.
The scope of our duties is to act as the approval authority for all present and future projects which impact the exterior appearance of all dwelling units. Our committee would like to share some helpful information with you:
1. If you are planning any outside renovation (which includes landscaping, roof, painting, windows, doors, walkways, sidewalks, lanai and patio) you must complete an ARC approval form, which can be found outside the main office door in the clubhouse.
2. If you live in a villa or condo, you must first contact your HOA president for approval prior to filling out the form.
3. Our committee believes in visiting every site and doing our best to meet each homeowner. We feel this eliminates any miscommunication, and we welcome dialog with residents. Usually we review each application that has been received on Tuesdays at 1 o’clock.
4. The following requires a building permit from the Village of Estero:
• Structural alterations or repairs
• Major renovations, including kitchen and bathroom remodels that involve changes to plumbing, electrical, or mechanical systems
• Roof replacements or repairs
• Window and door replacements that involve altering the size or location of openings
• Deck or porch construction
• Installing or modifying electrical, plumbing, or HVAC systems
• Swimming pool and spa installations
• Fences or retaining walls
5. When a project is complete, please send the building inspector’s approved certificate to the main office. If no building permit was required, also let the main office know so we can revisit your home to verify that work was completed as outlined.
6. The new paint books should be available the first week in January. If you are considering painting your house, a book will be in the clubhouse and also at the Sherwin Williams store located on Corkscrew Road at the next traffic light to the right past Lowes.
Our committee wishes each of you a wonderful holiday season and we look forward to seeing all these improvements in the new year 2025.