Category: Franklin

Master Association Update

The new 2019/2020 HM Directories should be hand delivered by Council members in the next few days.

Board of Director’s election – with three openings available and 5 applicants, Bob Browner and Dennis Leary were re-elected to the board. George Earle from Yardley was also elected. George, an ex-contractor has helped the MA with many of the Mill’s construction projects.

Elevator – The MA voted to award the elevator contract to Weaver Construction since they can start this year, they lowered their bid from $316,680 to $300,000 and were substantially under the other bidders quotes

Chandler Road Work     – Lyons and Hohl will soon be starting the reconstruction of Chandler Road by Chatham and Merrifield to reduce the grade. The road will be closed to thru traffic for about three weeks. A map of the closure was sent.  Also the part of Chandler by Mill Road that was recently washed out by a severe rainstorm will be closed for a short period while a new 4 foot culvert will be installed under the street.

​Alarm Systems     – Our CAD-X panels seem to be the best of the batch when contacting security, however we will be upgrading them when normal service is required. Our system will not dial security directly but through a company called Dice, who will route the call to security. We may also switch to an 800#. Whenever there is an emergency always call 911 first.

Sunoco  – The pilot hole from 202 to Wellington is now complete and will be reamed out for the installation of the 18” pipe. Sunoco may ask to have a second hole drilled to accommodate the 20” pipe at the same time to eliminate drilling there later. This could require 24 hr round-the-clock drilling for three days if approved.

New bus – is on order and being outfitted.

The walking trail – the section from the wood shop to the garden is now paved. Mike from HMLD to meet, possibly in July, with those living along Chandler to cover the proposal and privacy plantings for Franklin.  Council will then make a decision on the path based on input from owners living along Chandler.

HM Real estate – There is a new low of only 19 homes listed for sale in the Mill.

​Franklin Village Update – Currently we are under budget ytd. $2,400.

Council voted at the July meeting to keep the $50/qtr temporary increase for repaying the Reserve fund for our new garage doors to remain in the future quarterly fee. As we are already one of the lowest quarterly fee villages and over 35 years old it is prudent to keep our reserves up. This figure would increase our reserves by $172,000 in 10 years, when we estimate our roofs would need replacement.

Condo Docs/Rules & Regs. – Michael Pincus has recommended setting up a committee to update our condo Docs, Rule/Regs etc.  Any changes to the official documents would require a majority vote of the owners. The volunteer committee consists of:

Michael Pincus 586

Diane Carlin 581

Julie Gerhardt 582

Sandy Ogletree 527

Jeanette Schmid 598

Judy Jurgan 547

Maintenance items

Water intrusion has occurred in a few basements and a few garages, in many cases for the first time in 35 years. With changing weather patterns we are having record breaking rainfall, resulting in ground saturation.

​Through June we’ve had 28” of rain, with a lot coming in heavy downfalls. We are working with HM Landscaping to rectify the issues by directing water away from foundations. Our drainage and grading account is already $10,000 over budget.

Dryer vents will be cleaned this year (as suggested by our insurance carrier) and is a home owner cost.

Front door deadbolts will be checked this Fall by Security to make sure they have access to each home in an emergency. A-1 Security is the only locksmith company who can key the locks to our master key. Owners will be informed when the locks will be checked.

Moyer Pest Control will be testing each home for termites this year. It is ongoing through the year. The visit and any remediation will be paid for by the Village.

Yearly walk-arounds by the Architectural and Landscape committees have been accomplished. Any Architectural issues will be communicated to the individual home owners for resolution. Landscape improvements were approved at the June Council meeting and communicated to HMLD and now it is up to them to complete the items approved.

Homes for sale

558 Kelly for sale

565 for sale later this year

555 Lappin for sale

594 Rodelli for sale

Welcome new residents:

Carolyn Ginther and Carolyn Hunt 570

William & Emma Hodges 578

Bob & Lynne Kocher 592

Kenneth & Kathleen Kroos 572

Kristine Meyer 595

Lynn Niblock 564

Hope Wood 593

Wm. & Lisa Koppe 571

William Glancey 575

Rick & Nancy Richards 591

Next Village meeting is September 24^th.

 

 

Franklin Village Meeting 3/26/19

Bill and Sherry Kane attended to explain the Verizon cell phone plan that was going to be offered to HM as a result of switching to FIO.  Sherry explained that the actual discount offered was not as much as expected and she looked into 3 alternate plans.  The T-Mobile plan was the most competitive:

They have a Senior discount plan

You can keep your current phone number

Reception is good all through the area

A $25 one-time fee provides a signal boost if you require 4 bars all the time

Sherry will be sending an email to advise of future presentations for those requiring additional information before switching to T-Mobil

Franklin Business:

Roofs will be checked to determine how much longer they will be viable.  FV alarms are at 95% functional.

Committee Reports:

Landscaping:  A spring walk-around will be done shortly to determine landscaping needs.

Social:  Ladies Luncheon at the Desmond was successful.  The Social Committee will provide pizza at the annual election meeting in May (26,)  Information will follow regarding the summer pool events

Pool:  Dom Aleardi will be sending out an email asking for volunteers to take a week each keeping the pool and surrounding area neat.

Architectural: Tony Bizzaro advised that a large number of  requests have been submitted by residents for work they wish to have done.  The committee is working on approving them.

Decorations:  Michelle Cohen advised that the lights under the Franklin sign at the North Gate will be upgraded since they don’t provide enough illumination.  New plantings will be installed there as well.  Anyone wishing to volunteer their time may contact her at her email address: michelle.cohen@foxroach.com  Some weeding will be needed at both entrance areas and around the Franklin signs.

Hershey’s Mill Update:

Chandler Drive will be repaved in segments starting later this year.  Section one will cost $200K.

Don Evons, head of the Sports Group is retiring and a paid sports manager may be hired.  There will be a Sports Expo on May 22^nd from 3 to 5 PM

The Hershey’s Mill Bus has been replaced for $149K  The new bus holds 35 passengers.

$100K has been budged for the walking trail, if approved, behind Franklin Village on Chandler Drive.  HML is working on a plan to replace trees and shrubs that will have to be removed to install the trail.

The final decision regarding children at the Main Pool:  Children under 18 will be allowed everyday from Noon to 5PM

Three additional bids will be obtained for the Community Center elevator installation.

20 new benches have been installed around the Mill on the walking path.

Franklin Village Annual Meeting & Election:

May 22 6 to 9PM at the Community Center.  Jack Keeley and Mike Rackover are up for re-election.  The Social Committee will provide pizzas.

Master’s Association notes:

1. Walking trails– currently being paved through Brighton and Chatham($90,000). No update on Franklin. Mike from HMLD was to put together a drawing on their proposed plan for Franklin and meet those interested to discuss tree removal, privacy plantings etc. but it hasn’t been mentioned since March.
2. Verizon– the changeover is mostly complete. Only 60 of 1720 still need to be converted. Most of those are homes vacant or for sale. BOD has extended the Kane’s contract 2 mos. to finish and mop up any items incomplete. A Verizon “cheat sheet” was sent out by Judy Jurgan with important phone numbers and Fios tips.
3. Wood shop expansion– ongoing and moving along quickly. Will add approx. 1000sf to the building. Contract is for $190,000 of which the wood shop will pay back approx. $60,000. Wood shop is planning a fund raiser, to be announced, and is asking for donations.
4. Perimeter stucco walls– will have the balance of the shingles(on route 352) replaced this year. Getting final quotes on power-washing and applying rubber mulch at base of all the stucco walls to enhance their appearance (est. $114,000) and keep them clean. Plan is to complete this year. Next project will be the wood walls between the stucco ones being replaced by vinyl fencing for improved aesthetics.
5. Sullivan House has had its Spring cleaning including windows and carpets and some furniture reupholstered.
6. Main pool- over $80,000 in improvements, some to meet new E. Goshen regulations. Also instituted “no children Fridays”.
7. Peg Trauger has retired from handling the scheduling of meetings at our three meeting locations. A replacement will be announced soon.
8. The MA presidents recently voted to keep Boyd Mackleer on the board of Directors and Karl Grentz of Glenwood was elected to replace Dennis O’Leery on the board.
9. Bill O’Brien of the Insurance Committee announced that insurance from CAU for most of their covered villages would average a modest 2.66% increase. Franklin’s increase will be approx. +2% for 2019.
10. The BOD will be posting “no soliciting” signs at all four entrances.

• The HM Marketing committee recently finished a drone tour of the Mill which will have a link on our web page to promote the amenities of the Mill- Judy Jurgan will e-mail the link so you can watch it.

          The May Community Open House had 85 cars through security, a great attendance. Many visitors were repeaters and serious about buying. There are only 30 homes (less than 2%) remaining for sale in the Mill as of July 24th.

Franklin Village notes:

1. Dominic Aleardi, Joan Welliver and Jay Harter were reappointed to the board, as no others applied.
2. Council approved a year round addition on the rear deck for 566
3. Landscape- committee approved approximately 56 Franklin items for Hershey’s Mill to accomplish, which are not done. Also village trimming is behind. According to Mike at HMLD they are behind because of the damp spring weather. They also have less employees this year.
4. Architectural Committee- With Jack Fulmer moving, Tony Bizzaro has taken over the Architectural Committee chairman position.
5. Reminder and notices have been sent regarding dogs not on a leashes. as well as picking up after dogs.
6. Gutters were cleaned in June and will be cleaned again in the late Fall. In most cases gutter guards will be removed for easier cleaning.
7. Mildew remediation will also be done later this summer.
8. With financials in good shape Jay Harter deposited $100,000 in a 3 year CD at 2.6%. Your money is in good hands.
9. With the water temperature hovering in the low 80s the pool is getting good usage, especially on Mon, Wed and Fridays from 4-4:45 at the exercise classes run by Ann Lane.
10. We recently had exterior water line leak at two locations (543 and 595) which required Horn plumbing to dig up the exterior and replace the fixture. This is not a new experience since we’ve had 2-3 other problems like this happen in the last few years. Supposedly it’s caused by settling of the soil which causes the pipe to drop/leak. Nothing preventively we can do till it happens. Keep an eye on the area immediately above where water enters your house and if it seems unusually wet and spongy call CSK to have it checked out before water migrates in to your basement.
11. Franklin houses for sale—  558 Kelly; Donegal  $365,000    564 Fosnocht; Marlborough $485,000

Franklin council

Next scheduled Village meeting Sept 25^th 7PM community Center

During the past 15 months or so, the following new people moved into Franklin Village:

522 – Tony & Ann Bizzaro                                                                                                                    

581 – Bill  Diane Carlin

567 – Michele & Bob Cohen

584 – John & Marilyn Cullen

578 – William & Emma Hodges

592 – Bob & Lynn Kocher

589 – Martha Marshalak

580 – Allan & Elizabeth Soldwisch

548 – Paul & Jackie Welle

 

Dec. 2017 – Jan. 2018

 

Master Association Notes:

1. Verizon Update-Conduit install is complete at all villages. Network creation is 52%.  ONT’s installed at 30%.  So far 80 owners have transitioned to Fios.  The Board of Directors voted not to pay for battery back-up. The $39 charge will be the owner’s responsibility.
2. Walking Trail – Completed from Inverness to the Club and Zephyr.
3. Wall/Fence on RT 532 – New fiberglass fencing is replacing the chain-link fence. The additional 88 feet from the East Gate to Inverness is now complete and looks much better.
4. Main Swimming Pool – Upgrades to be made include a new circulation pump, Krystal Krete quartz aggregate wall and bottom and a new pool cover for a total of $88,000.
5. Exterior Wall Renovation – The shabby exterior walls around the Mill will be renovated over the next few years. A sample of the cleaned up wall can be seen on both sides of the North Gate.  They have been sandblasted clean and the mulch below them is now a rubber product that should keep the bottom of the wall clean.  J & R Roofing will also begin replacing the wooden shingles on the top of the masonry sections.
6. Board Spending Limit – the BOD proposed changing their spending limit without the Village Presidents’ approval from $25K to $60K. The Presidents’ voted to keep the limit at $25K.
7. Wood Shop – Expansion will be made with a 1000SF addition to square off the building. The space will be used for classes and a paint booth.  The total is $160,000 of which the Wood Shop will pay $60,000.
8. Greenhill Sewer Board is the name of our Mill-owned sewer system. Newly elected members are Ted Sikorski, Zephyr, John Babiec, Yardley and Eileen Hotte, Glenwood.  The Mill’s sewer charges are half of what we would pay if we didn’t have our own system.
9. Future Expansion Planning – The BOD is weighing the requests for additional space for some of the amenities. The Pool and Ping Pong groups need more space and the Sports Group committee would like to see an exercise center in the Mill, as we are the only 55+ facility within a 25 mile radius without one.

 FRANKLIN VILLAGE NOTES

1. Financials (Jay Harter) – End of year financials have not been received yet but Jay is not expecting any surprises.
2. Architectural Requests have been approved for an additional exterior electric outlet and a Bluebird house. Also approved is an awning for 567.
3. Snow removal – Even though December was cold and snowy the snow expenses were within the 2017 budget. Council has asked HMLD to be judicious with the spreading of snow melt pellets.  They will try to only spread them on the first foot or so of our porches to allow people to step over them and not carry them into the house. Hopefully this will work.
4. Leaf Removal – Due to the late December cold and snow the final leaf removal process will be delayed until somewhat warmer, dryer weather.
5. Pool Walkway Railings – DiStefano will be quoting an added railing for the pool walkway for safer entry and exit.
6. Window Caulking – We are accepting bids to re-caulk all windows in Franklin in 2018.
7. Termite Inspection – The termite inspectioin/remediation policy is being rewritten per Council’s decision to pay for inspection every other year.
8. Damaged Siding Repair – The corner board at 587 and the bottom panel of the garage door at 521 will be replaced.
9. Franklin Fees – 85 of our 86 owners are current with the fees.
10. Verizon – As one of the first villages converted, we now have Fios available to every home in Franklin. A number of owners have converted early to capture some additional savings. The final conversion to the Verizon Program will begin in March.  Verizon can convert 125 households per week so it will take approximately 14 weeks to convert all the homes in Hersheys’ Mill.
11. Walking Trail – Ed McFalls asked Council if the MA could offer FV a “sweet deal” if they were to add a trail on Chandler behind Franklin, knowing that we rejected that idea a few years ago. Council voted only to look a proposal which would have included info on which trees on Chandler would eventually have to be removed at our expense. Unfortunately, they marked trees so Arader Tree Service could quote them and there was a feeling that this was a done deal.  Council is still against the trail and reaffirmed that with a unanimous vote at the last council meeting.

REMINDER – Next Village Meeting – Tuesday 2/27/18 7PM at the Community Center.

 

 

 

FRANKLIN VILLAGE 2017

DATE                      EVENT                                                 ORGANIZERS_

February 23               Meet & Greet (Community Center)          Eileen & Carolyn

March 24                   Bowling                                                 Jack & Julie

March 16                   Men’s Breakfast                                     Michael     

March 28                   FV Council Mtg, with Residents      —                  —

April 27                     Ladies Luncheon (Gen’l Warren)     Sandy & Jeanette

May to October          FV Bocce (1/month on Thursdays)           Eileen

May 23                      Potluck / Council Election Meeting     Peggy & Judy

June, July, Aug.         Summer Pool – Wednesdays         BYOB & Munchies

July 25                      Summer Barbecue & FV                Eileen                    

September                 9 hole golf tournament                  Arlene

September 26            FV Council Mtg, Officers only         —–

October                     TBD – Square Dance or DooWop   Carolyn or Sandy

November 28             FV Budget Meeting with Residents       —–

December 17             Holiday Brunch Buffet HMCC-Mill Room   Sandy & Jeanette

Email reminders and flyers will be sent a month prior to these events with additional information

 

 

 

                                 The Master Association:

     1. The Rec Center (formerly pool house) is moving along nicely and should be completed on time and on budget. There will be a year round meeting room available, as well as year round access to bathrooms, along with a “warming room” for the Winter paddle players.

2. The first phase of the new walking trails from Inverness to the East Gate has started. Future phases will have walking trails all the way to the Club. 

3. The next trail phase will be from the East Gate to Devonshire. 

4. Additional high resolution surveillance cameras have been installed at all entrances for increased security. 

5. The East gate has had a turn-around added since some GPS’s bring visitors to that gate. 

6. 130 homes sold in the Mill in 2016 

7. For 2017 the Master Association fee is up approx. $2.00/mo/house.

                        Franklin Village 

1. Franklin Village completed the final phase of transition from asphalt to concrete walkways – new walkways are wider/safer; brighter and more up to date. 

2. All old, rotting garage doors were replaced with new fiberglass and insulated garage doors in a Terratone color to blend in with the roof shingles. They look much nicer, and operate quietly. Also any garage operator that didn’t meet code was replaced with a new, battery backed-up opener. 

3. All the roads in the Village that were deteriorating were repaired and top-coated with a new asphalt coating. At the same time all storm drains were repaired, rebuilt or cleaned out. Three permanent speed humps were installed.

4. The entrance at Chandler had the curbs replaced and a new streetlight was installed on the West side for safety. 

5. 12 homes sold in the village in 2016. There are only two homes remaining for sale. 

6. The village financials ended on a positive note as a check for $16,000 was received to finally close out the sale of 538. 

7. Franklin Village switched to CSK Management Company as of 1-1-17. CSK manages a number of other Hershey’s Mill villages. A letter of introduction was sent out by CSK which included the new address/procedures on paying the quarterly fees. 

8. Franklin quarterly fees still remain the lowest of our peer villages even though we have updated more of our physical property than any other village. 

We lost 4 village residents this year, Jerri Supko, Marta Simons, Jackie Hammerschmidt and Howard Fussell

 We welcomed the following new residents: 

523 – Bill Morrison/Jim Morrison

524 – Kevin & Margaret Callahan

534 – Harry & Joanne Johnson

538 – Joseph Yamaoka

552 – Maryann Di Nunzio

554 – Karen Dula

567 – Michele & Bob Cohen/tenant – Pat Coleman

582 – Julie Gerhardt

588 – Helen & John Hammerschmidt

601 – Patti George

For all changes or additions to existing structures, a Request Form must be submitted by the Homeowner (with contractors Certificate of Insurance and Permits) for approval by the Architectural Committee and Franklin Village Council. Note: All contractors must have a Pennsylvania HIC Registration # with the State of PA. However, having a PA HIC # does not exempt the need for permits for residential home improvement work. Home owner/contractor must check East Goshen Township for required permits (see website at http://eastgoshen.org/services/permits-inspections/building-and-construction-permits). Forms and applications for work requiring permits can be found at http://eastgoshen.org/services/forms-and-applications. If a project needs a building permit, a copy must be submitted to the architectural committee for final approval at least 14 days prior to estimated start date.

The “Architectural Request Form” is available from the zone leaders of the Architectural Committee. (A copy of the revised 2016 form is attached to these guidelines for your reference. Outdated forms will not be permitted)

The Architectural Committee has decided to implement an annual spring walk-around to assess compliance to the Architectural Guidelines. Notification will be given to homeowners of any issues that need to be addressed. The committee will keep track of any homes in the village that are not in compliance, and MAMC will be notified of any that have not been resolved by the owner.

 

1. General Rules

 

1. Outside Contractors. All outside contractors working for the Homeowner must carry suitable insurance and be registered with the East Goshen Township and State of Pennsylvania. (see Above)

 

1. Awnings.   Patio or deck awnings may not be up prior to March 15th and must be taken down by December 1st each year. The current retractable and stationary awnings are the only choices that are permitted. Awnings and poles must be maintained and rust-free.

 

1. Deck Screening. Installation of “invisible” wire screen around deck railings is suggested.

 

1. Deck Materials and Maintenance. Decks may be power-washed and sealed at the Homeowner’s expense. Clear sealants are approved. Brown stain or paint color must be preapproved by the committee.   Composite material such as “Trex” is approved for use as deck replacement material, but the color selection must be pre-approved by the committee. When decks are redone, the whole structure and railing must match. Clear stain cannot be put on pressure treated wood until after it is cured (about 6 months)
2. Furniture Covers. Neutral toned plastic or canvas fitted furniture covers are not approved except for winter storage.

 

1. Garden Hoses. Garden hoses, when not in use during gardening season, must be coiled unobtrusively in mulched area, under decks, or on hose reels. Hoses must be removed and stored in winter months.

 

1. Hanging Flower Containers. All containers must be green, brown, black, white or terracotta color.

 

1. Hose Faucets. The installation of additional frost proof faucets is suggested. It is the homeowners responsibly if this pipe freezes and needs to be replaced.

 

1. Outdoor Light Bulbs. All lights on the outside of a house or in a mulched area must be white when lit.

 

1. Realtor Signs. Realtor signs may be displayed in front of Homeowner’s property only on Sunday from 1:00 pm to 4:00 pm to identify an Open House.

 

1. Name Signs. No name signs are permitted except on doorknockers.

 

1. Window Films. Window films that block out ultraviolet rays may be installed on windows, skylights, and doors to protect furniture and rugs from damaging sun rays. 3M Scotchtint brand films, or equivalent, may be installed, providing the color is similar to Scotchtint’s defined: Clear, Light Neutral, Light Amber, or Gray. No other colors are permitted.

 

1. Window Treatments. All curtains, drapes, blinds (including patio blinds), shades, decorative panels, objects, and other types of window coverings visible from outside the house must be backed on the exterior side with off-white or white color liners to create a uniform appearance.

 

1. Two wreaths or flat back flower containers are allowed on three car garages and one wreath or flat back flower container is allowed on two car garages.

 

2. Changes or Additions that Require an “Architectural Request Form” be Submitted

 

1. Awnings. For new awning installations, the approved awning colors are:

 

1. Walnut Brown – Sunbrella 4618
2. 6” Solid Beige and narrow stripes – Sunbrella 4796.

 

 

1. Extra Support for High Decks. Additional support for high decks on walk-out units has been reviewed and updated for the safety of the homeowner. Construction should be according to code, using 6”x6” posts on concrete pads and headed with three 2”x8” joists.

 

1. Gas Fireplace. Gas fireplace logs not to exceed 18” may be installed. The maximum size propane tank allowed is 25 lb. The homeowner may manifold 2 – 25 lb. tanks. Tanks and gas line must be installed behind fireplace wall outside on a block base, in the mulched bed, and must be hidden by shrubs. The Landscape Committee can provide information on shrubs to hide the propane tank (or tanks), and a Landscape Request Form must be submitted for the installation of any shrubs. No fireplace propane tanks may be stored inside a shed, garage, house, or basement.

 

1. Handrails. Handrails along steps may be installed after approval of materials, length and location.

 

1. Individual Walkway. Pavers need to be approved and are at the homeowner’s expense and continued maintenance.

 

1. Light Fixtures along Walk. Light fixtures may be installed along walks in mulched areas using Progress light fixtures P5205-31 (Home Depot will supply on special order) or those of similar design. Electrical installation from a house circuit must conform to code. Light fixtures should not be taller than 15”, mushroom shaped, black, and spaced no closer than five feet apart. Brightness should not be offensive to neighbors.

 

Solar light fixtures that do not require external wiring may be used providing the style, color and height are similar to that specified above and must be pre-approved by the Architectural Committee.

 

Lampposts, similar to existing ones, are permitted with prior approval of Architectural Committee.

 

1. Rock Beds Under Decks. Rock beds under decks may be replaced with a suitably drained, reinforced concrete slab, and can be stamped concrete or pavers/slate.

 

1. Skylight. Installation of a skylight/solar tunnel using an approved flashing kit is permitted. Color should blend with roof.

 

1. Sliding Doors/Windows. Windows and sliding doors must be metal clad wood, similar in proportion to existing windows and sliders and the same dark brown as the windows of the main dwelling.

 

1. Stoops and Patios. Existing stoops and patios may be maintained in the original concrete. Those covered with flagstone, stamped concrete, or red brick are allowed, but become the responsibility of the owner. No carpet is permitted on front stoops.

 

1. Patio Enclosures. Patio enclosures must be stick built, not metal, with single sloped roof. Siding is to match existing siding. Gutters and downspouts must be connected to existing drains. Tempered glass is recommended for enclosures on the golf course. The original inside vinyl coated wall becomes the responsibility of the homeowner.

Metal enclosures are grandfathered. Maintenance is the responsibility of the homeowner but must be approved by the Architectural Committee.

1. Room Addition. Another type of approved enclosure is one whose roof extends to the existing roof ridge, which is completely finished inside, with heat and electricity, and which becomes part of the existing house. The size shall be no larger than the original patio or deck. Room additions not part of the original construction shall be subject to Franklin Village Architectural Guidelines and Council’s written approval prior to installation as to appearance, design, materials, and manner of installation.
2. Screened-In Porch. Another type of approved enclosure is a screened-in porch, with a permanent roof that extends to the existing roof ridge. Screening, doors, and siding must match the existing structure. Screened-in porches not part of the original construction shall be subject to Franklin Village Architectural Guidelines and Council’s written approval prior to installation as to appearance, design, materials, and manner of installation.
3. Basement Exits. Construction of a basement exit system must comply with current East Goshen Township Building Codes and will require, in addition to an Architectural Request Form, an Easement Agreement between the owner(s) and the Village of Franklin.
4. Appropriate building permits and Architectural Committee approval must be obtained before any construction has been started.
5. Physical location of opening, specifications and appropriate landscaping must be described at the time the request is submitted for approval.

iii.        Extension from and along the foundation should not exceed five feet in any direction. Maximum allowable height above normal ground level is eighteen inches (18”).

1. Any construction that has not been approved must be removed or corrected at the owner’s expense.
2. Opening must be covered and be able to withstand up to 450 pounds.
3. Bulkhead doorways are not acceptable.

vii.       Homeowner(s) assume all liability of structural damage, flooding, and ground water, if any occurs.

1. Exterior Doors and Side-Lights.

 

1. Front Door Hardware. Door hardware may be bright brass or antique brass finish. The door lock-set must be fitted with a Schlage cylinder to key into the Master System. Locks can be keyed in by A-1 Security, 13 Coffman Street, Frazer, PA (610-647-5042).

 

1. Replacement Front Doors and Side-Lights. The Homeowner may replace and paint the front door and side-lights, at the Homeowner’s expense.

 

• Approved doors are manufactured by THERMA TRU Company, P.O. Box 8780, Maumee, OH 43537 or approved equal.
• Approved door models are S926, S430 and TS296 (window at top). Also approved are 8 panel steel doors from Milliken Millwork available from Lowe’s.
• Approved side-lights are S289ESL S430SL, and 100SL (clear glass)

 

iii.        Front Door and Side-Light Paint. The approved door colors are “Franklin Village Brown” or “Town and Country Red”. Side-light colors are red, brown or sandstone. All colors are available at Sherwin Williams Paints. Formulas are available from zone leaders.

 

• If desired, the door jamb surrounding the door and the side-light may be painted to match the front door or storm door.
• Illustrations of these doors and side-lights can be obtained from the Chairman of the Architectural Committee.

 

1. Replacement Storm Doors. Factory finished storm doors are available in “Sandtone” or “Bronze” at Home Depot/Lowe’s. As an option, jambs surrounding the storm door may be painted to match the storm door. Paints to match are available at Sherwin Williams (formulas are available from the Architectural Committee members).

• Note: Existing storm doors are not to be hand painted.

 

 

June/July 2016 Franklin Village Notes

Master Association July 7^th Meeting Update

 The MA Finance Committee is taking input from the different amenity offerings for 2017 budget considerations. These include the Wood Shop; Sports Group; Sullivan House; Pool; and Garden Committees. So far no program is requesting increased funds for 2017.

• Sunoco Logistics still plans on starting the drilling for two pipelines on Boot Rd. this Fall.

• Marc Fraser will be asking each owner to update their Resident Information forms this year. Letters with forms will be mailed out.

• The number of gate activation devices allowed per resident will be increased from 6 to 10.

• In view of the newly formed bike group and all the golf carts, Marc Fraser will be publishing some safety and driver courtesy suggestions.

• The rebuilding of the Pool House begins just after the pool closes Labor Day. The new structure will be called the Rec Center and will have an additional room available for meetings.

• Real Estate: As of June 30^th 60 homes have sold and settled and another 17 are under contract. There are currently 58 homes listed as active with 4 of those under contract.

• There are plans to install a “lighted” fountain in the pond at Mill and Chandler. The fountain would help aerate the water to eliminate the algae and keep the fish healthy. Lighting it would also affect the beauty of the pond at night. Donations have come from owners in many villages especially, Springton, Robynwood and Zephyr as well as from the Masters Association and Channel 20.

Franklin Council July 11^th Meeting Notes

 The meeting was attended by Mike Burkholder of Asphalt Consultants to review the comprehensive report he did on the status of our roads. He spent almost 2 weeks in the Village, measuring, drilling, and otherwise determining the status of the roads. Mike has done surveys for a number of Villages in the Mill and the presidents and maintenance folks of those villages have spoken very highly of his work. His report covers the problems with our 3 cul de sacs, which have deteriorated substantially in the last few years and require substantial repairs even before they are resurfaced. He has estimated that to do the cul de sacs & the main road (which isn’t in as bad a shape) is approximately $383,000.            

Council approved an additional contract to Asphalt Consultants to construct a bid proposal and put the project out  to bid to 3 – 4 contractors to determine the exact costs involved. Council has decided to repave the roads this year, based on the report; and the fact that asphalt prices will never be lower than they are right now. Council also decided that the money will be raised with an assessment, which will be between $4000 and $5000.   More information to follow at the July 26^th meeting.

• We are also considering 3 permanent speed bumps (like the one on Mill) to be installed when we do the streets .

• Dom and Jack met with Di Stefano construction to go over the punch list for a few concrete issues to be resolved as all the walkways are now complete, and are the talk of surrounding villages.

• We have also discussed the pool walkway with Di Stefano and he has suggested lowering the first step to be flush with the new pavement then adding 2 steps to lessen the pitch.

• We need to send Mid Atlantic the current Rules/Regs for the different committees in the village which is part of the package they send out to new Franklin Homeowners.

• Mid Atlantic has met with Advantage, our exterminator, and inspections will continue.

• Mildew removal is ongoing in the Village in July

 Phone scams – Villagers are receiving phone messages from the IRS claiming a potential lawsuit if you don’t send some $$$ immediately. Don’t call them back!!

   Franklin Real Estate:

             523 O’Byrne $295,000

            524 Jordan Sold

            535 Procko Sold

            538 Ruggiero reduced $259,000

            552 Supko $249,000

            567 Riker Sold-rented

            580 Simons reduced $429,000

            582 McCloskey reduced $275,000

            584 Vacant

            588 Vacant

            601 Simpson Sold

 

Next village meeting is scheduled for Tuesday July 26^th, starting at 7PM. A BYOB summer picnic is scheduled prior to the meeting starting at 5PM. The cost is $14 per person and checks payable to the Franklin Village Social Committee can be dropped off at Eileen Rackover’s 557 by July 18^th.

 

Franklin Villager April – May 2016

 

Master Association Update

• The engineering firm of Uhler & Assocs. has finished the storm water management survey for each village. Franklin needs to rebuild 7 out of 50 of our water grates, regrout 9 of the 50 and 5 of 50 need to be “cleaned out”. Also 2 underwater pipes from the lower cul de sac to the retention pond will need work in 5 yrs.

• The remodeling of the lower bathroom of Sullivan House is now complete and the new outdoor furniture is in place. Everyone is invited to an open house June 8^th from 4-7PM

• Bob Greco, president of the Master Association has retired and Boyd Mackleer has been named president till the July vote. Bob Bonner of Zephyr has been temporarily appointed to fill the empty spot till July

• A telecommunication committee headed by Rick Herschel has been established to start negotiations between Comcast and Verizon for a new, more inclusive cable TV offering since the current Comcast contract expires in May of 2018.

• The newly named Rec Center (old pool house) will be completely renovated between Sept. of 2016 and April of 2017. It will become a year round center open for meetings. Budget is $812,000. Bathrooms will be available all year for off-season sports.

• Sunoco Logistics is still planning to drill for a new pipeline along Boot Road in front of the shopping center and behind 8 houses in Quaker Village. Still lots of legal and logistical issues delaying the start.

• HMSG(Sports Group) will have a larger storage shed for storing sports equipment.

• Hershey’s Mill Marketing group held an “Open Community” Sunday 5-22.       Attendance was high with 97 cars coming through security. With 64 homes currently on the market there were 37 open houses.

• The marketing group is keeping the awareness of the Mill in front of new buyers through ads in the Philadelphia Inquirer as well as our web page that gets between 1400 and 1800 hits a month.

 

Franklin Village Notes from the 5/25/16 meeting

• Concrete walkways will be completed this Spring. Pool walkway to be done first

• We are negotiating for a new termite control contract.

• Council verified the 55+ community rules — One 55+, one no less than 42, no children under 18 allowed.

• Individuals’ proof of insurance (HO6) policy are required every year to be sent to our management company.

• Our CIF(Capital Improvement fund) is $1458; the MA Association’s fee is $1700; and is due at closing on all sales, even owner to owner and current resident sales.

• Speeding still occurs in the village. We are looking at speed bumps like other villages have installed to control speeding.   Many garages are on the main street and backing out can be dangerous.

 

Exterior garage trim can be replaced when damaged by homeowner, for a fee.

• Architectural Committee handed out the new Architectural Guidelines form.       It will also be emailed to residents of FV and posted on the Franklin web page. Any exterior change, of any type or size, requires approval.

• Franklin Pool has been renovated with new plaster and blue bottom stripes and looks great. Thanks to Dom with help from Jeanette, Carl and the volunteer brushers.

• We currently have 10 homes on the market.

• Franklin Village road deterioration issues as discussed at the May Village meeting:

 

• The last 2 winters have taken a toll on our roads with many new cracks and spalling, especially the lower cul de sac.
• Our Reserve fund was scheduled to have the money for resurfacing by 2019 but we may not be able to wait.
• We have hired Asphalt Consultants to survey our roads and make suggestions as to what needs to be done, when, and at what costs.
• We have held off patching the roads, as it may mean spending good money after bad.
• Preliminary resurfacing estimates are in the $297,000 to over $300,000 and may be more after the survey as we also need some of our storm drains rebuilt.
• Asphalt prices are at their lowest now due to oil being low; but the cost of a barrel of oil has started to increase and could negatively impact cost in the future.
• Further deterioration of the roads if resurfacing is delayed may also cost more.
• There are a couple of holes now evident and safety can also be a concern.
• With 10 homes on the market the appearance of our roads could impact the sales.
• If done in 2016 the assessment could be in the $2,500-$3,000 range with later years possibly costing less because of reserve savings; or more depending on the cost of asphalt.

Asphalt Consultant’s professional survey should be done by the June Council meeting.

Next Village meeting scheduled for July 26^th.

The Annual Ladies Luncheon was held this year at Outback Restaurant in Frazer.

The April 24th meeting was preceded by the Pot Luck Dinner, brought back by popular demand. An assortment of delicious appetizers, salads, side dishes, entrees and desserts were enjoyed by the approximately 55 attendees. Thanks to all the great cooks who contributed dishes and to the Social Committee and the residents who pitched into help with the cleanup afterwards.

 

 

 

Franklin Villager March 2016
Master Association Update
1. The East Goshen Twp managers met with the presidents for approval of a proposal to add a paved road from Cornwallis Street across to Chandler. Cornwallis is South of the Mill. The state is making the township add a second access road to Cornwallis for emergency and safety reasons. The road will be protected at both ends by a locked gate which the emergency people would cut with bolt cutters if an emergency happened and the other end of the street was blocked. Esthetically, only Devonshire would be effected. The presidents approved the proposal with a small committee set up to see the final plans
2. Sunoco Logistics is estimated to be starting the 20” pipeline along Boot Rd this Fall. They are proposing drilling 24hrs a day with a diesel machine that makes some noise. The Village of Quaker will be impacted the most with a few other villages also impacted with sound and vibrations. Some of the villages also have wells for their electricity systems and are concerned. The MA has an attorney working on the issues.
3. Sullivan House bathroom remodeling is complete. The MA and Sullivan House will split the $9200 cost for new porch furniture.
4. The earthen dam between Kennett and Lincoln will be breached as the pond is filled with silt. The stream will not be effected by this change.
5. Each village was asked to fill out a brief form for our insurance company explaining how they maintain the village and documenting any capital expenses spent the last 3 or so years.
6. The contract with Comcast is up in May of 2018 so a committee has been formed to start negotiating with Comcast and Verizon for more stations, less expensive internet service and higher internet speeds.
Franklin Village Notes
1. Rules for 55+ communities were discussed. Children under the age of 18 are not allowed to reside in 55+ communities.
2. At the February Village meeting the budget was discussed in detail. We ended up a little in the black for 2015. Our 2016 budget includes a $50/qtr. increase to pay back the Reserve Fund for the new garage doors. This $50 will last for 16 quarters ($800). The balance of the quarterly increase ($58) is to cover increased maintenance and snow plowing fees. Even at $1458/qtr we are very competitive with our peer villages.
3. Our Reserve Fund should be in good shape to cover our next large project (road surfacing) in 2019.