October 22, 2024
Greetings Shannon Ridge Property Owners!
HALLOWEEN TRUNK-OR-TREAT!
This year the Trunk-or-Treat will be held in the circular driveway located at 117 Shannon Ridge Drive from 6:30 – 8:30 pm on Halloween (Thursday the 31st).
We will need volunteers to help slow down traffic in the area.
Anyone who wishes to participate, please reply to this email so we have an idea of how many will attend. That includes volunteers handing out candy, and those who want to bring their kids by to pick up treats.
Those of you who wish to participate handing out candy, you will need to:
- No later than 6:15 pm, drop off tables, chair(s), and candy, set up, then park down in the field in back of the house.
Parents with kids trick or treating:
- Kids can be dropped off to walk the circular driveway
- Park on the sides of the road (county easement)
A few volunteers are needed to slow down traffic in this area during the timeframe. Traffic coming down Shannon Ridge Drive can be diverted via Shamrock and Lucky to avoid congestion.
OCTOBER MEMBERSHIP MEETING
Reminder our elections for board members will be held at our next membership meeting scheduled for Saturday, October 26th. The meeting will be held at 1:00 pm, Wilson County Ag Extension Rooms 9 & 10, 1103 4th Street ( same complex as the library ) Remember, we welcome any Shannon Ridge property owner, not just HOA members.
Parking may be an issue since our meeting is located in the same facility as the early voting. So please take that into consideration. You also have the option for the limited proxy and absentee ballot. A limited proxy form and absentee ballot was emailed to HOA members. If you did not receive these documents and are unable to attend the meeting, please reply to this email and we will get you the documents.
Proxy forms and absentee ballots may be dropped off in the Secret Ballot container by the mailbox located at 117 Shannon Ridge (same procedure as the proposed deed restriction amendment) There are envelopes available by the container for your use for the absentee ballot. Please do not enclose the limited proxy in the same envelope as the absentee ballot. You may slip the limited proxy — with the name & signature of your proxy holder — in the same secret ballot box container.
Available on the website:
Membership minutes from 2-24-24
We hope to see many of you at our membership meeting.
HK BELLA’S RANCH (Subdivision Bordering Shannon Ridge) – UPDATE:
On Tuesday, Oct 1st, TECQ gave testimony to SOAH (State Office of Administrative Hearing) regarding HK’s wastewater permit.
In a recent email from James Freasier, he said HK’s lawyers have managed to put off any decision and delay the proceedings for an open-ended timeline. It appears their tactics are to delay, delay, delay and wear James down with legal expenses and at $3,000 an hour for lawyers and court costs: So, at $60,000 for the last few days and $340,000 in costs so far, he doesn’t know how he can continue the fight. He indicated it looks like Freasier LLC is in a no-win situation and he’s not optimistic about the outcome.
Mr. Freasier also added, Paul Kuo, the HK developer was at his office 2 months ago and he stated that HK would not be the developer that built the 900 housing units. HK’s only role was to purchase the land and have all the permits and platting approved, then flip the property to a big housing developer like D.R. Horton, and they have the means to get it done. Kuo also said everything HK had done so far was legal and he was unwilling to compromise on the waste water discharge or the lot sizes. It’s plain they have deep pockets and are willing to go the legal route to get what they want.
Enter our Commissioner’s Court. At the October 14th Commissioner’s Court, Russell King, our precinct commissioner, placed an item on the agenda to discuss and take action on obtaining outside counsel for subdivision regulations.
Wilson County Commissioner’s Court – Oct 14 (fast forward to 31:18) As transcribed, we need to have outside advice regarding subdivision regulations. They need to be at Texas state standard and not anything else. King asked to go through outside counsel to advise on subdivision regulations as to what is right or wrong. There’s way too much wiggle room and too much grey in the regulations we have now, and they need to be tightened up. We need help with the HK Bella’s Ranch subdivision and our county attorney has a conflict in his office for various reasons. Primarily the fact they want to sell it to an ESD and the only ESD eligible to purchase it is ESD 5. And 4 is already being worked on and it’s not in 1, 2, or 3 so that creates conflict. Mr. Magee and Mr. Bass are excellent counsel (Austin based). They serve as counsel for the Texas Association of Counties. There could be an RFP for other attorneys, however the need is now to help us get through the issue at hand. Commissioner’s Court never got an answer from the last court – where are we in this process? Have they followed the process exactly? What should we be doing or telling them? There is a sense of urgency to that because there is belief there is potential episodic conflict which we have nobody who can help us. Commissioner’s Court is familiar with them because they continue to give guidance to counties to be able to adhere to the law. A motion was made by Russell King to utilize Allison, Bass & Magee as outside counsel for subdivision regulations. Seconded by Gary Martin. Motion passed unanimously.
Andi Kelly sent an email to Judge Whitman, Commissioner King and Mr. Freasier stating:
“In spite of the Commissioner’s court hiring outside counsel to help in the fight with the proposed HK Development along CR320, would it also be beneficial for us to attack via the TX legislature which convenes in 2025? Is it possible for an amendment to be made?
TEXAS STATE CODE:
LOCAL GOVERNMENT CODE CHAPTER 232. COUNTY REGULATION OF SUBDIVISIONS (texas.gov)
SUBCHAPTER E. INFRASTRUCTURE PLANNING PROVISIONS IN CERTAIN URBAN COUNTIES
Sec. 232.101. RULES. (a) By an order adopted and entered in the minutes of the commissioners court and after a notice is published in a newspaper of general circulation in the county, the commissioners court may adopt rules governing plats and subdivisions of land within the unincorporated area of the county to promote the health, safety, morals, or general welfare of the county and the safe, orderly, and healthful development of the unincorporated area of the county.
(b) Unless otherwise authorized by state law, a commissioners court shall not regulate under this section:
(1) the use of any building or property for business, industrial, residential, or other purposes;
(2) the bulk, height, or number of buildings constructed on a particular tract of land;
(3) the size of a building that can be constructed on a particular tract of land, including without limitation and restriction on the ratio of building floor space to the land square footage;
(4) the number of residential units that can be built per acre of land;
(5) a plat or subdivision in an adjoining county; or
(6) road access to a plat or subdivision in an adjoining county.
(c) The authority granted under Subsection (a) is subject to the exemptions to plat requirements provided for in Section 232.0015.
We all know HK’s plan of putting 40’x120′ lots next to Shannon Ridge subdivision where the minimum lot size is 2 acres. It just doesn’t fit the country narrative many moved out here to enjoy.
As I understand it, correct me if I’m wrong, the Commissioner’s Court cannot dictate how a developer carves up their plot of land. We cannot stop developments occurring. However, if the Commissioner’s Court has some teeth to make sure the development is in line with neighboring established developments, i.e. making lot sizes compliant with established neighborhoods in this case mandating minimum 1 acre lots, perhaps the Texas State Code can be amended to state something to this effect.
Also is there some sort of impact study the developer has to bear when proposing a massive influx of housing/people with regard to resources such as emergency services, medical services, schools, traffic, electricity, water, wildlife, environmental impact, etc. All I ever hear from HK is “we will be adding revenue to the county coffers via taxes”. It is my belief it will take a lot more than simply adding money. Who will be responsible to ensure we have the proper resources in place to service these additional homes/people? We cannot continue to raise taxes on existing property owners to subsidize these greedy developers.
I’ve heard a complaint from a mom here in Shannon Ridge that the bus pick up for their children is less than optimal. She states the bus has to service Bentwood as well as Shannon Ridge and her children always arrive late to the first class due to lack of additional buses available for pick up service. Floresville ISD has limited funding for busing.
While adding counsel is a good move to help defer legal costs Mr. Freasier has already borne the brunt, it is my thought to try and amend the Texas State Code in our favor. Although should an amendment be presented before the legislature, HK would most likely catch wind and this could hasten action on their part.”
SCHEDULE OF MEETINGS
Reminder to mark your calendar with our future meeting dates. We welcome any Shannon Ridge property owner, not just HOA members.
Board meetings (10:00 am):
- Saturday, January 11, 2025
- Saturday, April 12, 2025
- Saturday, July 12, 2025
- Saturday, October 11, 2025
Property Owner meetings (1:00 pm):
- Saturday, April 26, 2025
- Saturday, October 25, 2025
We welcome your feedback and/or comments. Simply reach out via email.
Best Regards!
Board of Directors
Shannon Ridge HOA
September 8, 2024
Greetings Shannon Ridge Property Owners!
HK BELLAS RANCH (Subdivision Bordering Shannon Ridge) – UPDATE:
No news is good news! We keep watching the agendas posted by the Wilson County Permit and Development Department to see if and when HK Realty will be on the agenda. The Wilson County Development Review Committee holds meetings the first Thursday of every month. Click the link for agenda information. Wilson County Development Review Committee Agendas
Note: There have been reports of several trucks and construction vehicles going down CR320. This activity is for the Villas Las Flores development where lots range from 1 to 1.5 acres. This is NOT associated with the HK Bella’s Ranch proposal which will border our subdivision. HK Bella’s Ranch will need to have their plat approved by the Wilson County Development Review Committee, then that goes for approval before the Commissioner’s Court. HK is still at square one.
BURN BAN
** EFFECTIVE AUG 26th, 2024 WILSON COUNTY COMMISSIONER’S COURT INITIATED A BURN BAN. ** Most of you have already noticed the sign posted as you enter our neighborhood.
WILSON COUNTY GENERAL REQUIREMENTS FOR OUTDOOR BURNING **When a burn ban is in effect, ALL outdoor burning is prohibited. AG burning is allowed in accordance with Local Government Code 352.081(f). AG permits will need to be obtained from the Emergency Management office by the land owner at least 48 hours prior to burning. Outdoor Burning Requirements.pdf (wilsoncountytx.gov)
For more information on the Burn Ban or to obtain forms: Wilson County Burn Ban Information
HOW MUCH WILL YOUR TAX BILL BE?
(This information was taken in the Wilson County News, September 3, 2024 edition.)
You are advised to keep tabs on these local hearings.
Area cities, school districts, and other taxing entities are preparing to tap your wallet to support local services and infrastructure. Property owners and taxpayers can offer their concerns and opinions at the following public hearings on budgets and tax rates that will affect them. These meetings are free and open to the public. Although the first hearing has already passed, you are welcome to attend the other hearings.
•Wilson County Emergency Services District (ESD) 4 tax-rate hearing — Tuesday, Sept. 3, 6 p.m., Central Station, 1402 Hospital Blvd., Floresville; proposed tax rate is 10 cents per $100 of taxable property value, up from the current rate of 9.5184 cents per $100; the average tax bill may increase from $200.97 to $236.65
•Wilson County, tax-rate hearing — Monday, Sept. 9, 9 a.m. Commissioner’s Court, County Courthouse; proposed tax rate is 41.4748 cents per $100 of taxable property value, a slight increase from the current rate of 41.3133 cents per $100; the average tax bill may increase by $134 from $1,116 to $1,250
•Wilson County ESD 5, tax-rate hearing — Tuesday, Sept. 10, 6 p.m., Central Station, 1350 Hospital Blvd., Floresville; proposed tax rate is 10 cents per $100 of taxable property value, the same as the current rate; however, the average tax bill may increase from $215.41 to $242.96, due to increased property values
•San Antonio River Authority, tax-rate hearing — Wednesday, Sept. 18, 1:30 p.m., 100 E. Guenther St., San Antonio; proposed tax rate is 1.787 cents per $100 of taxable value, slight decrease from the current rate of 1.8 cents per $100; however, due to increased property values, the average tax bill may increase from $51.05 to $55.13.
It all adds up
Each tax bill may not seem much on its own. But each property owner pays taxes to multiple entities.
Follow those school districts, cities, emergency services districts, hospital districts, water authorities, and others where you live, and add up the proposed average tax bills; you may be surprised at the total!
WILSON AREA CHILDREN’S FOUNDATION
The foundation will be hosting a golf tournament on Saturday, September 28th at the River Bend Golf Club. It is a fundraising event to help support the needs of Wilson County children. The foundation spent about $8,000 on August 10th on back-to-school clothing at Walmart. It is their biggest, most impactful event for grade school children. If you like playing golf and have a kind heart to help kids in need, please contact Lexy Svoboda, 210-400-9160, [email protected] to register for the event.
GARAGE SALE!
The annual Neighborhood Fall Garage Sale will be held Saturday, October 5th. Time to go through the things you’ve stored and decide if you really need them and make a little extra cash. We always have had a good turnout for this event and welcome all homeowners to participate. Hours will be 9 am – 4 pm. However, we all know there will be those early birds appearing before 9, eyeing your wares. So, plan accordingly.
OCTOBER MEMBERSHIP MEETING
Reminder our elections for board members will be held at our next membership meeting scheduled for Saturday, October 26th. We encourage any HOA member to step forward for a chance to join our board – we welcome you and your input! A Candidate Nomination form can be obtained: Forms – Shannon Ridge HOA
At our last membership meeting in February, the members voted to downsize our subdivision representatives from six positions to four positions. We will eliminate the positions Subdivision Representatives #5 and #6, leaving the makeup of our board with nine members.
Positions available:
Vice President (2 yr term)
Treasurer (3 yr term)
Parliamentarian (2 yr term)
Subdivision Representative #2 (2 yr term)
Subdivision Representative #4 (2 yr term)
As a reminder, last February members approved a limited proxy to vote on governing documents and a budget and voting by absentee ballot for board members. If you are unable to attend the meeting a limited proxy form will be available for download from the website as well as an absentee ballot. The absentee ballot will be available only if there are multiple candidates running for one office. In the event there is only one candidate for a position, that person shall be declared elected by acclamation.
The membership will be voting on a budget for 2025. A proposed budget will be forthcoming and posted on the website ShannonRidge.info.
UPCOMING EVENTS:
• September 28 – Wilson Area Children’s Foundation Golf Tournament
• October 5 – Neighborhood Fall Garage Sale
• 80th Annual Floresville Peanut Festival
Tuesday 10/8, Thursday 10/10, Friday 10/11 and Saturday 10/12
SCHEDULE OF MEETINGS
Reminder to mark your calendar with our future meeting dates. We welcome any Shannon Ridge property owner, not just HOA members.
Board meetings (10:00 am):
Saturday, October 12 (TBD due to Peanut Festival street closure)
Property Owner meetings (1:00 pm):
Saturday, October 26 (elections)
We welcome your feedback and/or comments. Simply reach out via email.
Best Regards!
Board of Directors
Shannon Ridge HOA
August 4, 2024
Greetings Shannon Ridge Property Owners!
HK BELLAS RANCH (Subdivision Bordering Shannon Ridge) – UPDATE:
The Wilson County Development Review Committee (WCDRC) met last Thursday, August 1st, and the HK Bella’s Ranch Phase 1 was on the agenda.
Prior to any discussion of agenda items, there was a public comment section where people can make comments but ask no questions.
Andi Kelly commented on the recently sent plats to the committee where phase 1 was going to be discussed. She pointed out that those plats were the OLD master plans. The Commissioner’s Court back in March dictated that any new developments must have TWO ingress/egress routes. These plans do not reflect that. The WCDRC needs to put a hold on EVERYTHING here and wait for the final word from TCEQ & SOAH per Mr. Freasier’s latest info. The Development Committee should not approve anything until a revised master plan can be put forth.
Tom Segura commented stating the plats submitted previously by HK were not correct and most likely fraudulent in obtaining the original permit from TCEQ. If those drainage issues were fraudulent back then, how can HK be trusted moving forward with what they submit.
Mr. Freasier’s attorney spoke about the current litigation which is still pending. A decision on this permit came before the TCEQ Commissioners at an Agenda meeting held on May 10, 2024. After considering the matter, the Commissioners issued an interim order to remand the permit back to the State Office of Administrative Hearing (SOAH) on the following issues:
A. Whether the draft permit is adequately protective of water quality, including
the protection of surface water, groundwater, and animals in accordance with
applicable regulations including the Texas Surface Water Quality Standards;
B. Whether the discharge route is adequately characterized in accordance with 30
Texas Administrative Code§ 309.12; and
C. Whether the draft permit is protective of the requester’s use and enjoyment of
its property in accordance with the Texas Surface Water Quality Standards.
Upon examination of the discharge route on June 28, 2024, TCEQ determined that Sandpit Creek does not have a surface connection to the Upper San Antonio River (Segment 1911). Instead, the creek’s surface connection ends in a field. The case still resides with SOAH.
The HK representative discussed the plats and phase 1 given to the committee. Phase 1, as HK stated previously, is slated as a commercial/retail/residential 2 acre lot. It will have its own septic system. HK is not sure exactly what they will do with the lot’s development. There was discussion about the lot already having an existing driveway which TXDOT gave provisional approval. HK also stated they would be selling off the lot which then will not be part of the housing development. They also mentioned the existing driveway could also be used as an access point to the other phases.
Committee members stated if the lot is sold then it cannot be considered as phase 1 of the master plan. It would have to be separated from the plats submitted and resubmitted as a “non-standard” plat. HK would have to redraw everything to include the 2 ingress/egress routes separate from this 2 acre lot. Committee members also addressed whether this lot exists in a flood plain. The committee also stated phases 2-8, when resubmitted as a new plat, needs to show the location of the retention pond.
Russell King (Commissioner #2) made a motion to DENY approval of phase 1, seconded by Jeffery Pierdolla (Commissioner #3). The committee unanimously approved to deny phase 1.
While we keep winning small battles, the war isn’t over yet. We are ever thankful for Mr. Freasier fronting the legal battle on this issue. He has spent more than $200K just in legal fees alone, which he indicates are non-recoverable according to his attorneys. We owe him more than a debt of gratitude.
We welcome your feedback and/or comments. Simply reach out via email.
Best Regards!
Board of Directors
Shannon Ridge HOA
July 25, 2024
Greetings Shannon Ridge Property Owners!
AMENDMENT PROCEDURE
Shannon Ridge residents Debi Segovia, Bonnie Thorman and Susan McCarthy opened and counted ballots on Tuesday.
Out of 285 ballots received — 4 had no signature or return address to attach to a homeowner and one was postmarked July 12th, after the July 8th postmark deadline — they counted 280 ballots.
Out of 402 total votes — 269 was needed for approval.
Approved: 232
Disapproved: 48
TX Prop Code: Section 211.004:
(b) An amendment procedure submitted to a vote under Subsection (a) binds all property owners in the subdivision or the unit or parcel of the subdivision to which the procedure applies if more than two-thirds of the voting property owners vote in favor of the procedure.
We know some people were confused as to what they were voting for. Some people thought they were voting to change the deed restrictions — which was erroneous. We were voting on a PROCEDURE only to be able to put sections of the deed restrictions to a vote by all property owners. While the deed restrictions pertain to every Shannon Ridge property owner, some people simply tossed their ballot thinking this was a HOA issue.
However, we do believe it was an impressive showing, where basically 5 people approved the procedure to 1 who disapproved. We believe if the subject and meaning about the vague and ambiguous wording in the current deeds and the need for a PROCEDURE to be approved were to spread throughout the neighborhood, we will eventually get there. In the meantime, we’re stuck with what we have and if any “violation” arises, we can hopefully quell any arguments and settle without having to go the legal route. Just as in the case of what constitutes noise, definition of shall vs should, adding a section on vehicles, what constitutes loud music, and many other ambiguities. On the website we will continue to post the proposed deed restriction changes so people can see what is on the table to try and update our antiquated deed restrictions. ( Proposed Deed Restrictions )
According to the Texas Property Code Chapter 211.004, we will need to wait one year before proposing the same procedure amendment, unless we change what our procedure amendment contains.
211.004 (i) If the amendment procedure is not adopted, the property owners’ association may not submit the same amendment procedure to a vote under this section on or before the first anniversary of the date the previous votes on the procedure were certified.
HK BELLAS RANCH (Subdivision Bordering Shannon Ridge) – UPDATE:
A recent email from James Freasier:
It appears that our site visit on June 28th finally convinced the TCEQ that Sandpit Creek did not connect to the San Antonio River.
This action will delay HK’s application process, but our attorneys have informed us that HK council has requested a delay to refer this issue to the State Office of Administrative Hearing (SOAH). But this is a major win to make HK do their development right.
I would like to thank Commissioner King personally for attending the site visit and you all for taking an interest in this matter.
Trying to deal with the HK people and their attorneys has made it painfully apparent to me that Wilson County is going through some major growing pains, which will require community leadership to deal with planning for the rapid growth that is coming.
James Freasier
TCEQ Interoffice Memorandum – July 15, 2024
The discharge route provided in the permit application submitted on April
20, 2022 is incorrect. Until a discharge route that is contained wholly
within surface waters in the state is provided by the Applicant, TCEQ staff
cannot complete the technical review of the application and a permit cannot
be drafted.
Background: The application for this facility resulted in the drafting of a permit which
was subsequently the subject of a State Office of Administrative Hearing (SOAH). In a
proposal for decision dated January 12, 2024, Administrative Law Judges Katerina
DeAngelo and Shelley Doggett determined:
“the Draft Permit is adequately protective of water quality, including the
protection of surface water, groundwater, and animals in accordance with
applicable regulations including the TSWQS; the discharge route is adequately
characterized in accordance with 30 Texas Administrative Code section 309.12;
the Draft Permit is protective of the requester’s use and enjoyment of its property
in accordance with the TSWQS; the proposed facility is located above the 100-
year flood plain and is adequately protective from inundation as required by 30
Texas Administrative Code Chapter 309; the Draft Permit adequately addresses
nuisance odor in accordance with 30 Texas Administrative Code section 309.13;
and Applicant complied with the requirement to make a copy of the
administratively complete application available for public viewing.”
A decision on this permit came before the TCEQ Commissioners at an Agenda meeting
held on May 10, 2024. After considering the matter, the Commissioners issued an
interim order to remand the permit back to SOAH on the following issues:
A. Whether the draft permit is adequately protective of water quality, including
the protection of surface water, groundwater, and animals in accordance with
applicable regulations including the Texas Surface Water Quality Standards;
B. Whether the discharge route is adequately characterized in accordance with 30
Texas Administrative Code§ 309.12; and
C. Whether the draft permit is protective of the requester’s use and enjoyment of
its property in accordance with the Texas Surface Water Quality Standards.
In order to better ascertain the nature of the discharge route, members of the TCEQ,
Protestant, and Applicant visited the site of the discharge route on June 28, 2024. Upon
examination of the discharge route, it was determined by staff of the TCEQ Standards
Implementation Team that Sandpit Creek does not have a surface connection to the
Upper San Antonio River (Segment 1911). Instead, the creek’s surface connection ends
in a field.
We will continue to keep our neighborhood informed on any further development with this case.
ELECTIONS
Reminder our elections for board members will be held at our next membership meeting scheduled for Saturday, October 26th. We encourage any HOA member to step forward for a chance to join our board – we welcome you and your input! A Candidate Nomination form can be obtained: Forms – Shannon Ridge HOA
At our last membership meeting in February, the members voted to downsize our subdivision representatives from six positions to four positions. We will eliminate the positions Subdivision Representatives #5 and #6, leaving the makeup of our board with nine members.
Positions available:
Vice President (2 yr term)
Treasurer (3 yr term)
Parliamentarian (2 yr term)
Subdivision Representative #2 (2 yr term)
Subdivision Representative #4 (2 yr term)
UPCOMING EVENTS:
October 5 – Neighborhood Fall Garage Sale
80th Annual Floresville Peanut Festival
Tuesday 10/8, Thursday 10/10, Friday 10/11 and Saturday 10/12
SCHEDULE OF MEETINGS
Reminder to mark your calendar with our future meeting dates. We welcome any Shannon Ridge property owner, not just HOA members.
Board meetings (10:00 am):
Saturday, October 12 (tbd due to Peanut Festival street closure)
Property Owner meetings (1:00 pm):
Saturday, October 26 (elections)
We welcome your feedback and/or comments. Simply reach out via email.
Best Regards!
Board of Directors
Shannon Ridge HOA
July 3, 2024
Greetings Shannon Ridge Property Owners!
AMENDMENT PROCEDURE
THIS IS FOR ALL PROPERTY OWNERS, NOT JUST HOA MEMBERS.
Reminder: We need ALL Shannon Ridge property owners to return your ballot – postmarked no later than Monday, July 8th–or you can drop it off in the Secret Ballot receptacle located by the mailbox at 117 Shannon Ridge Dr. (by the front entrance).
There have been many questions because it is confusing as to what people are voting for. Some people think they are voting to change the deed restrictions which is not the case.
That being said, what property owners are currently voting on — the ballot you currently have or have submitted — is for a PROCEDURE to be able to change the deed restrictions. Your current ballot/vote will not change our current deed restrictions. This is a process the Texas legislature dictates we have to go through prior to changing anything in our deed restrictions. The procedure, which is the wording listed on your current ballot, is how we will vote on changes (it will take 51% of property owners, either by proxy, absentee ballot, etc), and has to be recorded as an official document with the Wilson County Clerk. We need 2/3 vote of ALL property owners (not just HOA members) to approve the PROCEDURE. That is why everyone’s vote is essential.
While we are collecting the ballots, they remain unopened. There is a committee (non-board people) who will open the envelopes and separate the small ballot envelope from the signed return envelope. They will check off from a list those people who have returned their ballot for an official record as to who voted. Then the actual ballots will be mixed up in a box — so as not to identify who voted yes or no — opened and counted. This way everyone’s vote is secret as dictated by Texas Property Code 211.004. Should we reach 67% approval of the Procedure of all property owners, only then we can move forward with changing the deed restrictions.
Once the Amendment Procedure is filed with the Wilson County Clerk, this will allow us to make changes to our antiquated deed restrictions. There are several proposed changes to eliminate the ambiguous and outdated restrictions the developer put into place back in 1997. Proposed changes can be viewed on our website: Proposed Deed Restrictions – Shannon Ridge HOA
Note: Each proposed change (section) will be put to a vote to either approve or disapprove. By presenting each change in this manner, some sections may be approved while other sections might not.
WE NEED YOUR VOTE ON THE AMENDMENT PROCEDURE FIRST BEFORE ANY DEED RESTRICTION CHANGES CAN BEGIN TO TAKE PLACE.
If you have not returned your ballot, please do so! And please follow the instructions as dictated by the Texas Property Code 211: Sign your name where indicated on the return envelope, and Print your name and property address. If these are left blank, the ballot cannot be counted.
If you need a ballot, please email [email protected] and we will get one to you pronto! Since we don’t have all property owners’ contact information, if you see your neighbor, ask them if they submitted their vote.
HK BELLAS RANCH (Subdivision Bordering Shannon Ridge) – UPDATE:
In a recent communication with Mr. Freasier, he states his hearing with TCEQ was postponed since TCEQ wants to schedule a site visit to determine if the HK application was correct – which he is strongly disputing. His attorney believes this will delay any approval of an application for more than a year. We will wait to see.
TCEQ informed Mr. Freasier that the Standards Implementation Team cannot conclusively determine at this time that a surface water connection between Sandpit Creek and the San Antonio River exists as described by the applicant (HK).
Because the Commission gave specific instructions requiring a determination on whether Sandpit Creek flows into the San Antonio River or terminates on Mr. Freasier’s property, the Standards Implementation Team reexamined the discharge route proposed in the application. Upon closer examination of all information currently available, including Google Earth images and USGS topographic maps, the Standards Implementation Team can no longer attest to the accuracy of the description of the proposed discharge route in HK’s application.
Based on this development, the Standards Implementation Team believes a site visit is necessary to determine whether a surface water connection between Sandpit Creek and the San Antonio River exists.
We will keep you posted as we find out more information from Mr. Freasier.
ELECTIONS
Reminder our elections for board members will be held at our next membership meeting scheduled for Saturday, October 26th. We encourage any HOA member to step forward for a chance to join our board – we welcome you and your input! A Candidate Nomination form can be obtained: Forms – Shannon Ridge HOA
At our last membership meeting in February, the members voted to downsize our subdivision representatives from six positions to four positions. We will eliminate the positions Subdivision Representatives #5 and #6, leaving the makeup of our board with nine members.
Positions available:
- Vice President (2 yr term)
- Treasurer (3 yr term)
- Parliamentarian (2 yr term)
- Subdivision Representative #2 (2 yr term)
- Subdivision Representative #4 (2 yr term)
HAPPY FOURTH OF JULY!
Please have a safe and sane fourth! While we have many veterans in our community, please be cognizant of the effect shooting off fireworks can have on veterans who suffer from PTSD. Also, there are many animals who get scared and run off due to the unusual loud noise. If possible, please keep your pets inside or in a contained area. There are so many posts on social media from people looking for pets who ran off. Be respectful of your neighbors.
And remember our lands are both hot and dry. Any little spark can set off a fire. To date, Wilson County still has no burn ban in place. To keep updated on burn bans: Wilson County, Texas
OUR FLAG
Speaking of our nation’s birthday, many people fly our national flag high and proud. That being said, please make sure your flag is not torn or tattered as tattered American flags should not be flown under any circumstances. It is disrespectful to the country, but in particular, the United States military and those who died fighting for our country. Remember that the flag represents the unity this country was founded on, so it’s important that its symbol remains a strong one whenever displayed for the public eye.
The flag is a unifying symbol that binds together Americans from the east to west, north to south. Each state has a star sewn into a blue background that represents vigilance, perseverance, and justice. The red stripes symbolize valor whereas the white means purity and innocence. These colors represent characteristics of the American people throughout history, across the nation.
As a way to honor those who have risked their lives for the United States of America, the least citizens can do is raise the flag in a respectful way that shows dignity and pride to those brave men and women. If people become lazy about replacing their worn-down flags, it’s not something punishable in a legal sense, but it’s seen as a moral offense. Those who choose not to dispose of their flags are the same ones who end up dealing with the unfortunate reprimands of seeing the Stars and Stripes wear into shreds.
If you can’t treat the flag properly, do war veterans a favor and take it down so that they don’t have to deal with the agony of viewing it torn up in an ugly manner. Any torn and tattered flag can be disposed of properly by contacting The American Legion in Floresville.
What is the Meaning Behind the 13 Folds of the U.S. Flag?
The flag-folding ceremony represents the same religious principles on which the United States was originally founded.
- The first fold of our flag is a symbol of life.
- The second fold is a symbol of our belief in eternal life.
- The third fold is made in honor and remembrance of the veteran departing our ranks, and who gave a portion of his or her life for the defense of our country to attain peace throughout the world.
- The fourth fold represents our weaker nature; as American citizens trusting in God, it is Him we turn to in times of peace, as well as in times of war, for His divine guidance.
- The fifth fold is a tribute to our country. In the words of Stephen Decatur, “Our country, in dealing with other countries, may she always be right, but it is still our country, right or wrong.”
- The sixth fold is for where our hearts lie. It is with our heart that we pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America, and to the republic for which it stands, one nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all.
- The seventh fold is a tribute to our armed forces, for it is through the armed forces that we protect our country and our flag against all enemies, whether they be found within or without the boundaries of our republic.
- The eighth fold is a tribute to the one who entered into the valley of the shadow of death, that we might see the light of day, and to honor our mother, for whom it flies on Mother’s Day.
- The ninth fold is a tribute to womanhood. It has been through their faith, love, loyalty and devotion that has molded the character of the men and women who have made this country great.
- The 10th fold is a tribute to father, who has also given his sons and daughters for the defense of our country since he or she was first born.
- The 11th fold represents the lower portion of the seal of King David and King Solomon and glorifies the God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob.
- The 12th fold represents an emblem of eternity and glorifies God the Father, the Son and Holy Ghost.
- The 13th and last fold, when the flag is completely folded, the stars are uppermost, reminding us of our national motto, “In God We Trust.”
SCHEDULE OF MEETINGS
Reminder to mark your calendar with our future meeting dates. We welcome any Shannon Ridge property owner, not just HOA members.
Board meetings (10:00 am):
- Saturday, July 13
- Saturday, October 12
Property Owner meetings (1:00 pm):
- Saturday, October 26 (elections)
We welcome your feedback and/or comments. Simply reach out via email.
Best Regards!
Board of Directors
Shannon Ridge HOA
May 15, 2024
Greetings Shannon Ridge Property Owners!
HK BELLAS RANCH (Subdivision Bordering Shannon Ridge) – UPDATE:
We’re forwarding a piece of awesome news! Mr. James Freasier (across from us on US 181), sent this email to us:
A quick update on our TCEQ protest against HK’s development.
- Freasier LLC retained an Austin Environmental Law firm to represent us in appeal of the TCEQ’s ruling granting HK a discharge permit.
- On Friday the TCEQ granted Freasier LLC an appeal.
- Our appeal will be heard within 6 months.
The TCEQ’s ruling will in effect delay HK’s application at least one year. Without an approved permit Wilson County cannot approve HK’s current plat. This action will give the county commissioners time to close some of the loopholes HK is using for a high density development. WE ALL NEED TO KEEP OUR NEIGHBORS INVOLVED TO MAKE OUR COMMISSIONERS AND HK TO DO THIS RIGHT!!!
All in all, Friday was a very good day for our cause.
James Freasier
DEED RESTRICTIONS/REVISION UPDATE:
The printing presses are about to get started. Watch your mail for the proposed deed restrictions. We need you to APPROVE/DISAPPROVE the suggested changes/additions. Each property owner will have one vote – some owners have two or three properties and will get one vote for each property owned. Each suggested change/addition will be counted separately. We have 432 properties and need 289 votes in favor of the changes/additions to pass new deed restriction sections. Therefore, some sections may pass, and others may not.
IMPORTANT!! We need your vote so we can tally every property owner’s preference regarding changing our deed restrictions. This is for ALL PROPERTY OWNERS, not just HOA members.
CINCO de MAYO CELEBRATION–CANCELLED
Once again, Mother Nature “rained on our parade” so to speak. Our event – like the St. Patrick’s Day event – was cancelled due to stormy weather. We believe when we are in our third hot and dry month of drought, all we need to do is plan a party! One day we’ll be able to post photos of a neighborhood event.
SCHOOL’S OUT
Reminder schools in Floresville ISD will be ending next week. Please be vigilant for children at home and playing near streets.
SCHEDULE OF MEETINGS
Reminder to mark your calendar with our future meeting dates.
Board meetings (10:00 am):
- Saturday, July 13
- Saturday, October 12
Property Owner meetings (1:00 pm):
- Saturday, October 26 (elections)
We welcome your feedback and/or comments. Simply reach out via email.
Best Regards!
Board of Directors, Shannon Ridge HOA
May 4, 2024
Greetings Shannon Ridge Property Owners!
FREE SEMINAR: Protesting Property Taxes
SPEAKERS: Property Tax Expert Michael Berlanga (LREB, CPA, Senior Property Tax Consultant) and Anne Englert (MBA, LPTC, Certified Mediator and Arbitrator)
DATE/TIME: May 5, 2024 at 3:00pm
LOCATION: Isabel’s Garden at Studio C, 246 Paloma Drive, Floresville
COST: FREE!
SPACE IS LIMITED!
Learn what evidence to bring, how to present it, and how to negotiate a fair value at your Appraisal Review Board (ARB) hearing with the County Appraisal District (CAD). The mass appraisal approach used by CADs across the state to estimate the value of your property does not consider various aspects of your INDIVIDUAL property. It is up to us – property owners and taxpayers – to dispute the inaccurate appraisals and reign in these numbers. Bring your estimated appraisals with you to get on-the-spot assistance with filing your protest.
Registration is FREE, but is required to ensure we do not exceed capacity for the venue. Click on the link to register: Property Tax Protest
Special thanks to Isabel’s Garden Weddings and Events (at Studio C) business owner Christina Medina Bourne and Alena Berlanga for sponsoring this FREE event.
HK Bellas Ranch (Subdivision Bordering Shannon Ridge) – Update:
Pursuant to a recent phone call to the office of the Wilson County Permit & Development Department, turns out HK Real Estate Development company IS NOT on the agenda for their upcoming meeting scheduled for Tuesday, May 7th. We will continue to monitor their Facebook page since they will be posting updates on the Bella’s Ranch subdivision.
Hopefully, as Brady Baggs, HK Real Estate Co-Owner/Developer, stated at the March 25th Open Forum, HK can always sell the land. Time will tell.
Reminder: public hearings for the Wilson County Development Review Committee are held the first Tuesday of the month at 9:00 am located at 800 Tenth St., Bldg B (behind the DMV & Sherrif’s dept). June 4th is the next Review Committee meeting. You are encouraged to keep up to date by going to the Wilson County Permit & Development Facebook page as they will be posting agendas and updates on this and other developments. They can also be reached at 830-393-8357 and welcome any, and all questions.
Spectrum Fiber Coming
We’ve had many questions as to what those bright orange tubes are sticking out of the ground at the entrance to our subdivision. Seeing an Oak Hills Water Supply truck beside one of the “tubes”, a phone call to Oak Hills was warranted. Oak Hills stated Spectrum is running fiber in our neighborhood and Oak Hills is onsite to mark water lines and meter boxes so they don’t get damaged in the digging process.
HB 614 – “Fines and Enforcement Policy”
The board drafted a resolution stating our association’s policy regarding fines and enforcement to be in compliance with the new state law which went into effect January 1. Attorney Lou Rosenberg was gracious enough to view the document at no charge and said everything stated follows the new state law parameters. The resolution posted on our website can be viewed here: HB 614 – Fines & Enforcement Policy
Elections in October
Please think about joining our HOA board. This board is a transparent, cohesive unit to serve not only HOA members, but all property owners in our subdivision. Our next membership meeting is scheduled for Saturday, October 26. We will be voting on a new budget for 2025 as well as new officers.
At our last membership meeting we voted to downsize our Subdivision Reps from 6 to 4. As approved in our revised Bylaws:
Each Board member shall serve for 2 years, except for the treasurer who shall always serve a 3-year term.
The offices of president, secretary and subdivision representatives 1, 3 & 5 (if 5 exists) shall be elected in odd numbered years.
The vice president, parliamentarian and subdivision representatives 2, 4 & 6 (if 6 exists) shall be elected in even numbered years.
In October we will hold elections for:
- Vice President (2 yr term)
- Parliamentarian (2 yr term)
- Treasurer (3 yr term)
- Subdivision Rep #2 (2 yr term)
- Subdivision Rep #4 (2 yr term)
Next Board meeting
Saturday, July 13, 10:00 am:
Wilson County Ag Extension Rooms 9 & 10
1103 4th Street ( same complex as the library )
Floresville
All property owners are invited to attend.
Cordially,
Board of Directors, Shannon Ridge HOA
Greetings Shannon Ridge Property Owners!
Cinco de Mayo Celebration!
Due to inclement weather and cancellation of the St. Patrick’s Day event, and the overwhelming enthusiasm and support for Shannon Ridge property owners to hold a get together event, our board decided to hold a Cinco de Mayo event. Last year the Shannon Ridge Social Club held a Cinco de Mayo potluck event at a homeowner’s backyard, with over 35 people in attendance. The event will be held Sunday, May 5th at Helton Nature Park (US 181 & 775) under the big pavilion, from 12:00 noon to 4:30 p.m. We have reserved the pavilion space which has tables with benches, and one BBQ pit. Please RSVP to [email protected] with the number of people (adults/children) in your party and food/beverage item(s) to contribute and share with others. A running list of the number of people and potluck items will be published on the front page of our website: ShannonRidge.info We welcome you and your family to come meet your neighbors. There will be games for everyone to enjoy.Deed Restrictions Revision – Step 2
The board has polled members to see if a change in our deed restrictions is warranted, and at the last membership meeting held March 24th, an overwhelming majority voted to proceed with the next step in trying to amend our antiquated deed restrictions. Our deed restrictions, created in 1997, need an overhaul to be in agreement with our growth and changing times to end the vagueness and ambiguities which exist therein.In the coming weeks, every property owner will be mailed information to vote for approval or disapproval of the suggested updated deed restrictions. It will take 2/3 of ALL property owners (not just HOA members) to approve changes for revised deed restrictions to become effective. You can view the proposed changes on our website by clicking here. If you would like a copy emailed to you reach out to us at [email protected].
Front Entrance Sign
At the March 24th membership meeting, Lou Menendez presented an AutoCAD rendition of a proposed new sign with brick and concrete. After members saw his design on paper, there was overwhelming support to obtain pricing and post a draft of the proposed design on the website. We are waiting for an estimate. Click here to view the proposed sign. There will be more discussion on this in the near future.Bulletin Board for Business Services
Patrick Hutzler inquired if we could include a service section/bulletin board on the website for homeowners who have used business services and wanted to give recommendations to others in the subdivision. At the April 13th board meeting, it was discussed and approved to include a bulletin board for business services on the website. This is NOT to be used for homeowners to advertise their own business. It is a place where homeowners can go to see recommendations from other homeowners about a particular business they have personally used (e.g. landscaping, plumbing, electrician, etc.) If you want to give kudos and place a recommendation on this section of the website, please email [email protected] with your name and a brief “kudos” description of the business/service with their contact information (include a picture of a business card if possible).HK Bellas Ranch (Subdivision Bordering Shannon Ridge) – Update:
No news is good news – for now. We continue to monitor the Wilson County Permit & Development Facebook page as they will be posting updates on the Bella’s Ranch subdivision. Reminder: public hearings for the Wilson County Development Review Committee are held the first Tuesday of the month at 9:00 am located at 800 Tenth St., Bldg B (behind the DMV & Sherrif’s dept). May 6th is the next Review Committee meeting. You are encouraged to keep up to date by going to the Wilson County Permit & Development Facebook page as they will be posting agendas and updates on this and other developments. They can also be reached at 830-393-8357 and welcome any and all questions.Schedule of Meetings
Reminder to mark your calendar with our future meeting dates.Board meetings (10:00 am):
- Saturday, July 13
- Saturday, October 12
- Saturday, April 27
- Saturday, July 27
- Saturday, October 26
As always, all Shannon Ridge property owners are welcome to attend board and general meetings.
New Members and Members Who Wish to Update Their Information
If you would like to join our HOA, or if you have information you would like to update, simply go to our website to fill out and submit a membership application online. If you are updating information you can note that in the message section at the bottom of the form. Click here for the application form.We hope you find our newsletters and website informative as we try to update you with current information regarding our neighborhood and its surroundings.
Cordially,
Board of Directors
Shannon Ridge HOA
March 26, 2024
Greetings Shannon Ridge Property Owners!
HK Bellas Ranch (Subdivision Bordering Shannon Ridge) – Update:
The Commissioners’ Court meeting was held on Monday morning, March 25th where Andi Kelly, Debi Segovia, and Alena Berlanga were in attendance. On the agenda, item #16c was a proposal by Luz Serrato, Permitting and Development Director, to update subdivision regulations. Shannon Ridge got a BIG WIN regarding road usage!
Current regulation states:
Q. Emergency Ingress/Egress
A residential subdivision, including a master planned community, that is or will be subdivided into 1,000 or more lots, or that potentially could expand into a subdivision of 1,000 or more lots through master planning, is required to have at least two (2) means of ingress and egress in the subdivision.
Proposed regulation:
A residential subdivision, including a master planned community, that is or will be subdivided into 500 or more lots, or that potentially could expand into a subdivision of 500 or more lots through master planning, is required to have at least two (2) means of ingress and egress in the subdivision.
After much discussion it was decided that even changing the number from 1,000 to 500 is still too many lots/homes for ingress/egress access. Commissioner Akin stated a developer could potentially have a few less than 500 lots/homes and only be responsible for one ingress/egress access. That is reason for concern and could cause a potential traffic jam on the access road. Debi Segovia made the point that the proposed HK Bella’s Ranch subdivision with 900 homes could be utilizing Kerry Lane as a second access point. While the developer would be responsible for maintaining the roads within their subdivision, the point where traffic would cross onto Kerry Lane would be the responsibility of Wilson County since the county owns the roads. Everyone already knows our roads in Shannon Ridge are in poor condition and additional traffic would collapse our roads. Debi made a recommendation the developer should be responsible for ingress/egress WITHIN their own community, not rely on neighboring developments such as those along CR320 and Shannon Ridge. County Judge Whitman strongly agreed with the recommendation and any second ingress/egress points for future developments CANNOT use existing residential streets of other subdivisions. Alena Berlanga reiterated the abuse of our roads and also mentioned the proposed wastewater treatment plant.
Commissioners’ Court Motion: (by Russell King; seconded by Jeffrey Pierdolla; unanimously approved)
Update Subdivision Regulations – Article II, Section Q. A residential subdivision including a master planned community, that is or will be subdivided into 100 or more lots, or that potentially could expand into a subdivision of 100 or more lots through master planning, is required to have at least two (2) means of ingress and egress within the subdivision plat.
The plat, which was submitted to the Permitting and Development department late on Friday, which only had one ingress/egress via Hwy 181, now has to be redrawn to include TWO ingress/egress routes to connect to Hwy 181. Since the developer was not present at the morning meeting, he most likely was not aware of this new regulation as he presented his plat and other geographical drawings at the 1:00 pm open forum. The Commissioners’ Court meeting can be viewed on the link below – fast forward to 1:38:30 where the beginning of item #16c begins. The motion by Russell King begins at 1:58:14. Wilson County, Texas Live Stream
Open Forum Hearing
We want to thank those people who took time off work to attend this hearing. There is power in numbers and the room was packed with more than 75 people. There were also people who viewed the livestream via Facebook who sent in questions.
Brady Baggs, from HK Real Estate Development and co-owner, along with Dan Ryan an engineer and a consultant to HK, and a few others from HK were there. Mr. Baggs started the hearing by presenting their subdivision which will include 913 homes. Although Mr. Baggs is an engineer, Mr. Ryan did most of the talking relating to technical questions regarding the wastewater treatment plant. They tried to assure the crowd that the effluent water coming from the plant will EXCEED the TCEQ requirement. The crowd was not buying into that fact and there were many more questions that couldn’t be answered. They did admit prior to submitting their wastewater treatment plans to TCEQ, they had not stepped foot on Mr. Freasier’s property to see that the effluent will never reach the San Antonio River as they stated in their permit application to TCEQ. HK representatives finally admitted that the effluent is expected to pool in the “low spot” on Mr. Freasier’s property until it rises to the elevation needed to hopefully flow toward the San Antonio River. According to Mr. Freasier, that would cause 30-40 acres of his property to be inundated with standing effluent before it would ever reach the San Antonio River. (Note: Mr. Freasier has personally paid for a topographic study of this area of his property.)
It’s interesting to note that the developer submitted their plat late Friday afternoon. The plat shows 8 phases with 4 water detention ponds scattered throughout the subdivision. Also of curiosity was phase 1 – up front of the development approximately a 2 acre area slated as commercial/retail/residential (single family/multi-family), yet the wastewater treatment facility doesn’t exist until phase 2. Many attendees felt something underhanded was going on for the developer to submit a plat with such a small phase 1 to try and get in under the wire prior to the Commissioners’ Court meeting on Monday.
There were no decisions made at this hearing. The purpose of the hearing was for the developer to listen to our concerns. Although they “listened”, we all hope they “heard” what we had to say. Many people said we know developments are going to occur, but they can be done in a manner that fits the community. People also pointed out should the developer simply enlarge the size lot to accommodate septic tanks (1/2 acre minimum), many issues would be solved.
The revised plat will be resubmitted to the Permitting and Development department again. Note: public hearings for the Wilson County Development Review Committee are held the first Tuesday of the month at 9:00 am located at 800 Tenth St., Bldg B (behind the DMV & Sherrif’s dept). April 2nd is the next Review Committee meeting, but most likely HK will not have their revised plat available by then. You are encouraged to keep up to date by going to the Wilson County Permit & Development Facebook page as they will be posting updates on this and other developments. They can also be reached at 830-393-8357 and welcome any and all questions.
If you are interested in hearing the open forum click on the following link. It runs approximately 1:36:00. 3-25-2024 – 1 PM – Wilson County Permits and Development Forum
Community Garage Sale!
Mark Your Calendar!! We will hold a Spring garage sale on Saturday, April 6th. Abrego Lake will join in by holding a community garage sale on Friday & Saturday, April 5th & 6th. Eagle Creek Ranch will also hold a community garage sale event on April 6th. We will be running an ad posting the time from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm.
Schedule of Meetings
Reminder to mark your calendar with our future meeting dates.
Board meetings (10:00 am):
- Saturday, April 13
- Saturday, July 13
- Saturday, October 12
Property Owner meetings (1:00 pm):
- Saturday, April 27
- Saturday, July 27
- Saturday, October 26
We will attempt to secure the same venue for all meetings for simplicity and consistency:
Wilson County Ag Extension Rooms 9 & 10
1103 4th Street ( same complex as the library )
Should the facility be unavailable, the board will either search for a different venue or call for the meeting to be scheduled for a different date.
As always, all Shannon Ridge property owners are welcome to attend board and general meetings, but you must be a member to have a voice. Note: During board meetings if sensitive information will be discussed (violations, legal matters, etc.), the board will adjourn to an executive session.
New Members and Members Who Wish to Update Their Information
If you would like to join our HOA, or if you have information you would like to update, simply go to our website to fill out and submit a membership application online. If you are updating information you can note that in the message section at the bottom of the form. Click here for the application form.
Dues
Just a reminder to those of you who have not yet paid your dues for 2024, to please do so. Our $50 annual dues have been the same since the inception of the HOA in 2003. You can now pay your dues online through our website! Click here to pay your dues. A convenience fee of $3.00 will be applied for credit card processing. Or if you still prefer to pay by check, you can mail a check made out to Shannon Ridge HOA for $50 to PO Box 54, Floresville – 78114. Remember, only dues paying members will have a voice and the ability to vote.
We hope you find our newsletters and website informative as we try to update you with current information regarding our neighborhood and its surroundings.
Cordially,
Board of Directors
March 4, 2024
Greetings Shannon Ridge Property Owners!
St. Patrick’s Day Celebration!
At our property owners meeting on February 24th, there was overwhelming enthusiasm and support for Shannon Ridge property owners to hold a St. Patrick’s Day event. After all, we ARE Shannon Ridge! Last year the Shannon Ridge Social Club held a potluck event at a homeowner’s backyard, with over 50 people in attendance. With approval of the board and HOA members at the meeting, this year the event will be held Sunday, March 17th at Helton Park (US 181 & 775) under the big pavilion, from 12:00 noon to 4:30 p.m. We have reserved the pavilion space which has tables and benches. Please RSVP to [email protected] with the number of people (adults/children) in your party and food/beverage item(s) to contribute and share with others. A running list of the number of people and potluck items will be published on the front page of our website: ShannonRidge.info We welcome you and your family to come meet your neighbors. There will be games for everyone to enjoy.
New Website reminder!
Our new website is ShannonRidge.info If you are having difficulties accessing the website, please send an email to [email protected] We will need to know what the difficulties are – browser, display, etc.
New Governing Documents
At the membership meeting on February 24th, members voted in favor of updating our:
- Certificate of Formation (formerly Articles of Incorp)
- Bylaws
- Standing Rules
- 2024 Budget
With the new bylaws in effect, we now have limited proxy voting to be used for voting on association matters and/or to help establish a quorum, yet not to be used in board member elections. An absentee ballot is to be used for elections and to help establish a quorum. The new documents can be viewed/downloaded on our website: Governing Documents Limited proxy forms and absentee ballots will be posted on the website approximately 30 days prior to the meeting.
Schedule of Meetings
Since the adoption of the Standing Rules, it is this document where future board and membership meetings are spelled out so property owners can mark their calendars well in advance. Should the facility be unavailable, the board will either search for a different venue or call for the meeting to be scheduled for a different date. As of now, the meetings are:
Board meetings (10:00 am):
- Saturday, April 13
- Saturday, July 13
- Saturday, October 12
Property Owner meetings (1:00 pm):
- Saturday, April 27
- Saturday, July 27
- Saturday, October 26
We will attempt to secure the same venue for all meetings for simplicity and consistency:
Wilson County Ag Extension Rooms 9 & 10
1103 4th Street ( same complex as the library )
As always, all Shannon Ridge property owners are welcome to attend board and general meetings, but you must be a member to have a voice. Note: During board meetings if sensitive information will be discussed (violations, legal matters, etc.), the board will adjourn to an executive session.
Reports
There will be quarterly reports posted on the website for President and Treasurer. Other reports will be posted, such as committee reports, as they become available. Click here to view reports.
Deed Restrictions/Revision Update:
Your 2024 Board of Directors has investigated the possibility of updating our deed restrictions to eliminate the ambiguity and vagueness contained therein. Our deed restrictions are now 27 years old, and a lot has changed over the years. At the membership meeting, by a show of hands, most were in favor of proceeding with the next step in amending our deed restrictions, with two opposing.
Suggested changes can be viewed on the website ( click here ) and we welcome your feedback. With the approval of HOA members the board will move forward with suggested changes, then it will be mailed to every property owner in Shannon Ridge where it will take 2/3 approval of ALL property owners in order for the deed restrictions to be amended and filed with the County Clerk’s Office. It is a high bar, but talking with your neighbors about updating the deed restrictions will help in securing the 2/3 mark. We have 438 properties in Shannon Ridge – some of which owners have multiple lots, and will get a vote for each lot. That being said, we will need 292 property owners to approve changes to the deed restrictions.
HK Bella’s Ranch (Subdivision Bordering Shannon Ridge) – Update:
February 15th meeting at Wilson County Permits & Development office (Andi Kelly in attendance): Brady Baggs, Exec VP for HK Real Estate Development, was in attendance. Baggs starts off by saying there is little to no low-cost housing here in Floresville. Where will local workers live where they don’t have to drive a distance to go to work? He mentioned if his daughter were to move to Floresville, she could not afford to purchase a home on a half-acre lot as they go for $350K-$400K on up. So, there is definitely a need for housing around the $250K-$275K range. There is a subdivision selling homes in the $350K-$400K range and they sell approximately 1 home/month. Versus other developments in the $250K range sell around 5 homes/month. Then Baggs spewed monetary gain to the county through property taxes for this amount of homes. King asked where will all the kids go to school? One homeowner said this will impact not only schools, but our small hospital, emergency clinics, emergency services, etc. by having potentially thousands more residents just in one subdivision alone! And this is not the only subdivision being built in Wilson County.
Baggs was asked what size lots are being considered. Answer: 40’ x 120’. A committee member stated that is 0.11 of an acre! Baggs said there is nothing illegal with their plan development and according to state code 232.101(b), the Commissioners Court cannot regulate the number of houses on one acre. He also referred to Article II-M(2) [Order Adopting Rules of Wilson County, Texas] where it states there is no minimum lot size. Baggs admitted he wouldn’t want to live next to a neighborhood like that. Commissioner Pierdolla said this kind of neighborhood would definitely not fit in the “country” atmosphere that we currently have. King said he has to look out for his people’s interests as well as Wilson County’s. Baggs said the developer is pretty hard set and not willing to bend due to their legal rights. He did say, due to the information gained through the townhall we held in December, that the access going through Shannon Ridge prompted the developer to say they will put in an emergency gate at the end of Kerry Lane to stem the flow of traffic.
Discussion: Water treatment facility: Baggs said that there would be no additional impact as to flooding on Mr. Freasier’s property (across 181 from Shannon Ridge) as their plan is to recycle the treated water. Baggs said the bulk of the treated water will be used to supply water to their proposed soccer field and other common areas.
Discussion: Roads: County docs Article VII-A(2) states a 30’ minimum of asphalt with 8” curb & gutter on each side. Fire chief (in attendance) and committee were concerned with the tiny sized lots there will be nowhere to park vehicles, therefore most people will be parking on the streets. That is to include big trucks with extended mirrors, boats, etc. You’d be lucky to get an emergency vehicle through such a crammed street. And most residents would have 2-4 vehicles. Where will they park? Baggs brought up Article VII-B(8) states a minimum requirement is 24’, and therefore 30’ is more than the minimum. Since fire trucks hold 2500 gallons of water and there will be no hydrants available, this is a cause for concern as well, especially going down a crammed street IF the fire truck can even get through. And if they upgrade trucks with bigger holding tanks, they definitely won’t be able to get through. Committee Chairman Luz Serrato will research other communities of this nature to see how they handle the flow of traffic, then report back to the committee.
At the end of the meeting King said there needs to be some sort of minimum lot size – but yet that is a state issue and legislation would have to be amended. He also said that there should be some sort of agreement between road sizes with parked cars and the ability to get emergency vehicles (fire trucks) down a jammed road.
There will be an Open Forum meeting with the Permit & Development Department on Monday, March 25th at 1:00 pm. This meeting will follow the Commissioner’s Court meeting and will be held at the County Courthouse. We encourage anyone and everyone to attend this meeting and voice your concerns and opinions!!
Downsizing from 6 to 4 Subdivision Representatives
It was unanimously approved by members to downsize from 6 to 4 representatives. Our recently approved bylaws state: “Article IV Board of Directors, Section 5 – Terms: Each Board member shall serve for 2 years, except for the treasurer who shall always serve a 3-year term. The offices of president, secretary and subdivision representatives 1, 3 & 5 (if 5 exists) shall be elected in odd numbered years. The vice president, parliamentarian and subdivision representatives 2, 4 & 6 (if 6 exists) shall be elected in even numbered years. This staggered approach will provide Board continuity.
For this October election of new officers, and aligning with the updated bylaws, the positions up for election this year are:
- Vice President (2 yr term)
- Treasurer (3 yr term)
- Parliamentarian (2 yr term)
- Subdivision Representative #2 (2 yr term)
- Subdivision Representative #4 (2 yr term)
We will eliminate the subdivision representative #5 & #6 positions. The current representatives for these two positions (Mandee Henk #5 and Terry LaBreck #6) have agreed to and have the option to run for either #2 or #4 positions.
For anyone interested in running for a position, you can open/download the Procedures Manual to see what is entailed with each position and the operation of the association. We encourage anyone to get involved with your association. You will have a supportive board who favors working as a group for the benefit of all Shannon Ridge property owners.
Dues
Just a reminder to those of you who have not yet paid your dues for 2024, to please do so. Our $50 annual dues have been the same since the inception of the HOA in 2003. You can now pay your dues online through our website! Click here to pay your dues. A convenience fee of $3.00 will be applied for credit card processing. Or if you still prefer to pay by check, you can mail a check made out to Shannon Ridge HOA for $50 to PO Box 54, Floresville – 78114. Remember, only dues paying members will have a voice and the ability to vote.
Community Garage Sales
By a show of hands, members were in favor of holding a Spring community garage sale along with the Fall event. We will target Saturday, April 6th and communicate with other neighborhoods (Abrego Lake, Eagle Creek, & Bentwood) to coordinate a Spring garage sale event. Further details will be forthcoming. The Fall event will remain as the first Saturday in October.
We hope to see many of you at our board meeting on April 13th and the general meeting on April 27th!
Cordially,
Board of Directors
Shannon Ridge HOA
January 5, 2024
Greetings Shannon Ridge Property Owners!
Your 2024 Board:
Your new board sends well wishes to all for a healthy and prosperous New Year.
With your new board, you can expect to see many favorable changes. Your new board will focus on transparency with all property owners and we encourage all residents to attend board meetings as well as HOA meetings. However, you must be current with dues to have a voice and to be able to vote. Property owners will have access to all board members via the website. All residents will be able to hold the board accountable for their actions in accordance with the governing documents voted on by the membership. We want to help build our community where neighbors become friends. All property owners in Shannon Ridge will be encouraged to become involved in community activities. Your new leadership believes that the HOA should be just that, a HOMEOWNERS’ ASSOCIATION. To do this we will need support from all neighbors.
We want to reassure what will not change is the enforcement of the deed restrictions – the document we all agreed to and signed when we purchased our homes/lots. However, when there is a dispute, we will set down and discuss it as adults and strive to arrive at an agreement.
Website:
On a sad note, our webmaster, Randy Davis, passed away in early December. He was instrumental in disseminating neighborhood information via the website he created and maintained for the past 14 years. However, sad to say, we don’t have any password information to be able to continue with the domain name ShannonRidge.org. Therefore, it was decided to utilize the existing Shannon Ridge Social Club website – ShannonRidge.info – to update the HOA website. The Social Club will maintain a presence within ShannonRidge.info. When the ShannonRidge.org domain name becomes available in December 2024, your board may wish to purchase it.
Proposed Governing Documents:
A bylaws committee has met and drafted what we believe are reasonable and fair governing documents. Your new board, by majority vote, has also approved these documents. The proposed documents and budget can be viewed on Proposed Governing Documents. Please review these documents and be prepared to vote for approval/disapproval at the next membership meeting to be held:
Saturday, February 24, 2024
1:00 p.m.
Wilson County Ag Extension Rooms 9 & 10
1103 4th Street ( same complex as the library )
Floresville
Until members approve new changes to our governing documents, members have to be present in order for your vote to be counted. This is according to our current governing documents.
What’s new:
(with membership approval)
- The Board will operate with total transparency. Minutes of board meetings, membership meetings, and financial reports will be published on the website.
- Board meetings will be open to all property owners in Shannon Ridge in accordance with the Texas Open Meetings Act. However, in order to have a voice one needs to be a voting member.
- There will be a hierarchy to the governing documents:
- Certificate of Formation (previously known as Articles of Incorporation) which is filed with the Secretary of State.
- Bylaws – The purpose of bylaws is to determine the rights and duties of membership, to help define how the organization is structured and governed, and to take precedence over the rules in the parliamentary authority.
- Standing Rules – This is a list of less important rules that the membership will be able to change more easily than the bylaws and/or certificate of formation.
- All meeting dates will be established up front in the Standing Rules so property owners can mark their calendars well in advance.
- A limited proxy has been created to be used to vote on governing documents, budget, and other matters brought before the membership for a vote and can count toward a quorum. It will not be used for election purposes. See the sample available on the website.
- Elections will be by secret ballot. An absentee ballot has been created to be used for elections for those who are unable to attend and can count toward a quorum. See the sample available on the website.
There is also a Procedures Manual for board members which will give newly elected board members the knowledge as to what to expect from their office and how to perform their duties. It also outlines a procedure for dealing with deed restriction violations, report formatting, expense reimbursement policies, conflict of interest statement, and basics of parliamentary procedure. This will be available on the website for anyone to view who may be interested in running for an office.
Deed Restrictions:
Since their inception from the developer in 1997, there have been many complaints about vague verbiage throughout the document. When we purchased our properties we all signed documents which included the deed restrictions and must abide by them. However, property owners may want to fine tune and eliminate ambiguities how one may interpret the meaning of various sections. It takes HOA members to approve A PROCEDURE to be able to change verbiage relating to deed restrictions. Once the procedure is approved by HOA members, a secret ballot will be sent to all property owners for a vote and must have 2/3 approval of ALL property owners to pass.
Taken from Texas Property Code:
TITLE 11. RESTRICTIVE COVENANTS
CHAPTER 211. AMENDMENT AND ENFORCEMENT OF RESTRICTIONS IN CERTAIN SUBDIVISIONS
Sec. 211.004. CREATION OR MODIFICATION OF PROCEDURE TO AMEND RESTRICTIONS. (a) A property owners’ association by a two-thirds vote of the association’s governing body may submit a procedure for amending restrictions to a vote of the property owners in the subdivision or in the unit or parcel of the subdivision governed by restrictions.
(b) An amendment procedure submitted to a vote under Subsection (a) binds all property owners in the subdivision or the unit or parcel of the subdivision to which the procedure applies if more than two-thirds of the voting property owners vote in favor of the procedure.
Dues:
Just a reminder to those of you who have not yet paid your dues for 2024, to please do so. Please mail a check, made out to Shannon Ridge HOA, for $50 to PO Box 54, Floresville – 78114. Your new board is working on the ability to be able to pay online to save the hassle of writing a check and affixing a postage stamp, online fees (a convenience fee) may be involved depending on the cost.
Proposed Subdivision Bordering Shannon Ridge:
As a result of the Shannon Ridge Town Hall at the American Legion post 38 Floresville on Dec 20, 2023, property owners were able to express their concerns to our county commissioners about the HK Real Estate Development of 900 homes with a waste water facility draining effluent into private property across 181.
The town hall was organized by Glen Mabe, Andi Kelly, and Alena Berlanga. We had guest speakers Mr. James Freasier, his Attorney Mr. John McClung, County Attorney Tom Caldwell, County Commissioner (Precinct 1) Gary Martin, and County Commissioner (Precinct 2) Russell King. Among our friends and neighbors in attendance, we also had two San Antonio River Authority board members Derek Gaudlitz and Dominic Carvajal. The developer, HK Real Estate Development, did not respond to repeated emails and phone calls. The hall was at capacity with a room full of concerned property owners.
In summary, property owners made it very clear that we will NOT accept this project as currently drafted/proposed and we expect our elected representatives to protect and defend our interests. As part of the town hall discussion, we learned:
– Two of the four commissioners are in their first term and were not part of approving a variance for this development last year. The variance only allows the developer to adjust property set backs from 15 to 5 feet. It has nothing to do with the actual housing development, size of lots, size of homes, sewage system, etc.
– The developer has NOT yet submitted a platt (to have the 255 acres divided into lots) to commissioners for approval. The commissioners cannot control the size of the homes, but they CAN control the size of the lots. They have the ability to reject the platt if lots are 1/4 acre. They cannot reject the platt indefinitely and prevent the development, but they can require the developer to meet certain standards established by commissioners.
– According to county commissioners, any housing developments with 1,000 homes or more must have two exits for emergency service access. They discussed placing a gate at Kerry Lane to prevent daily traffic from cutting thru Shannon Ridge from the HK development. Commissioner King said the developer told him they will be building a road directly to 181.
– To date, as far as we know, the developer has not submitted anything to other government agencies that must approve portions of this project. TCEQ recently approved a permit for the wastewater plans, but that decision is being appealed thru legal action by Mr. Freasier. Attorney McClung promised several legal actions including lawsuits
– Other agencies that need to be involved include San Antonio River Authority, TXDOT, FELPS, Evergreen Water (supplies Oak Hills), and the County Emergency Management office….to name a few. None of these agencies have received permit applications for review, to date.
This discussion was recorded by Wilson County News, thanks to Gregory Ripps. Here is the link to watch each clip from the meeting: Shannon Ridge Townhall 12-20-23
We must stay vigilant and watchful for every move made by this developer. We are watching for applications with each agency and will make it a daily/weekly task to check. Anything we learn along the way will be shared with everyone. We know how important this is to all of us who have homes here.
As new information becomes available, we will post it on the website.
We look forward to working for all Shannon Ridge property owners on their behalf.
Cordially,
Board of Directors
Shannon Ridge HOA