Some neighbors have asked about reasons for the recent dues increase to $40. Below is a summary of the productive discussion we had about this at the in-person Fall meeting.
For context, from ~ FY 18/19, dues were $15/year with over $40K in reserve. The reserve was high due to previous years when dues were $25 to $50/year coinciding with several years with no snow removal cost. The low dues – $15/year – was set to slowly draw down the high reserve.
In FY 24/25, dues rose slightly to $20. We started the year with $28.9K. We had snow and spent $11K on plowing/sanding and $8.5K on non-snow items (Insurance, Directory services, and the Fall party). Our reserve is now $18K.
Looking ahead, it can help to think about our planned expenses (budget) on a per household basis. There are 535+ households in CW. Since dues are voluntary, we typically collect from 300-380 households (more and targeted reminders lead to the higher-end participation rate).
This year’s budget (which matches last year’s expenses):
- $11K for snow removal – or $29 per paying household (if 380 pay)
- $8.5K for other expenses – or $22.50 per paying household
Instead of setting dues at $51.50 (the total of above) to fully fund this budget, we opted for $40. Thus, if snow removal costs $11K this year, we will need to use reserves to fully cover expenses (-$3.5K in reserves needed). The Board does not believe it is prudent to assume no snow in the coming year since, as you can see, snow plowing costs are significant and swiftly reduce our reserve.
Of course, if we get minimal snow, next year’s dues will likely decrease. But if we get big storms, we may deplete our reserve and need an emergency collection.
We know CWCA members (dues-payers) want even higher participation, so this year we added a new payment method (Zelle).
We encourage you to pay your dues EARLY. We are a volunteer organization, and it lessens our workload if you pay now!
INSTRUCTIONS FOR PAYING DUES:
- By Zelle – send $40 payment to susan.garrahan. You will see “Chesterbrook Woods Citizens Association” after you enter that email address. Enter the dues amount and include your CWCA address (# and Street) in the memo section so we can credit your household.
- By PayPal — Go to paypal.me/chesterbrookwoods and send $40. Include your name and CWCA street address in the “What’s this for?” memo, so we can credit your household.
- By Check — Make your $40 check payable to “CWCA” and include your street address, so we can credit your household. You can bring your check to the Oktoberfest party or mail it to Susan Garrahan.
**Payment by cash will be accepted at the Oktoberfest Party only (but not thereafter).
Chesterbrook Woods 