The budget for the upcoming fiscal year is nearing completion with the major remaining issue being the priority of the projects funded from the reserve contribution. Two carry over projects from this year are the storage room addition and warming kitchen for the Harbour Inn. Both have been slowed due to winter weather. Permits are in hand and volunteers should be starting work within the next month. At print time the Host Lions were discussing taking the lead on both projects.

The VDOT wetlands trade off project is well under way and should be complete in 3-4 weeks. For those that have not been following this we have given VDOT an easement on less than 2 acres at the end of Delaware Drive to create trade off wetlands (part of the Woodrow Wilson Bridge Project). In return we received $95,000, a dredging offload bulkhead and a road up the hill off Harpoon Drive. VDOT?S contractor is removing 8,000 cubic yards of spoils and filling a large depression over the top of the hill at the end of the new road. When they are complete (in 3-4 weeks) we will retain the new road and have access to the common property at the top of the hill. Potential use for this area is under review. It?s a win win situation for both parties.

Tennis players interested in forming a community tennis organization have recently approached me. Look for additional information in the March issue of the Harbour View or contact the Business Office for details. The goal is to have a sponsored organization with scheduled play.

This past year has been one of the wettest on record. This has caused untold problems for individuals as well as the association. One unpleasant result has been a proliferation of green to black algae on roofs and siding. Wood and vinyl siding appear to be more susceptible than aluminum. It seems the only effective method of getting the algae off the siding is a pressure washer. Adding vinegar and bleach have been successfully used by many. Professional removal is recommended. If you attempt a self-help approach it?s strongly recommended you first check with your siding manufacturer. Keep in mind bleach can kill plants and vinegar will change the ph of soil. Roofs are a different story. The 3M company has been selling zinc and copper granules that stop algae to several shingle manufacturers. However, it appears some manufacturers are not putting sufficient granules into their mix to be effective. Another solution is to have a roofer install special zinc or copper strips on the ridge of the roof. This has proven very effective. Most roofers are just learning of this. I have a source of the strips should anyone be interested.

Road patching will be in full swing in a matter of weeks. Additionally we will be replacing 6-8 major road pipes including three on Washington Dive just outside the gate. All will mean closing at least one lane of the road for periods of time. Every effort will be made to do this at nonpeak traffic times. These pipes must be replaced, as several are ready to collapse. Please watch for the signs and give the guys a break.

Several measures have been put forth to slow drivers down at the gate. Entirely too many people are driving through at 35 to 50 mph. Rumble strips have been discussed but have been deferred. We are going to erect a sign similar to that used at school zones and test it for effectiveness. The real answer is to just slow down and allow the Gate Guard time to confirm you are authorized entry.