Snow Removal
February 4th, 2010
Chapel grove is preparing for more snow. Townhomes are serviced by the landscaping contractors as paid through HOA dues. If there are any problems please notify the BOD by using the contact form.
Single family homes are serviced by the county. For information on snow plowing procedures or to file a complaint or compliment visit http://www.aacounty.org/DPW/SnowInformation/Index.cfm
I’m sure I’m not the only single family homeowner dissatisfied with snow removal efforts in our area recently since my neighbors have expressed similar comments to me. I understand that the policy is that the County is responsible for snow removal around the single family homes. But, the County says they will not remove snow from cul-de-sacs for anywhere from 2 to 5 days after a major snowfall. That is unacceptable to many of us who need to get out of our courts to pick up supplies, go to work, etc. Since the County won’t change its policy for me, the HOA needs to change its policy. Those of us in single family homes are paying monthly dues just like the people in townhouses. Part of the reason for those dues is so the HOA will maintain the streets, which in my mind includes snow removal so residents can access those streets safely. If a contract already exists to plow the area around the townhouses, it seems to me that the contract should be modified so the same company also can plow the streets around the single family homes since they already are in the area providing the service we need.
I certainly understand your frustration with the lack of snow removal. That’s government for you.
As I understand it, the HOA is not allowed to plow county streets. Just like we’re not allowed to install traffic-calming devices. The roads are owned by the county, and we’re not allowed to do much but drive and park on them. I hope someone from the BOD or Landscaping committee will chime in to correct me if I’m wrong.
And in case you didn’t realize, single-family homeowners pay significantly lower monthly HOA fees precisely because the HOA does not have to pay to plow and maintain your streets. If we were allowed to plow your streets (and paid the contractor to do so), your dues would go up significantly (at least $30 more monthly).