About Spring Lake HOA

A Homeowners Association for Spring Lake Neighborhood

Fostering Community Spirit

An HOA for our small neighborhood here in Mineola, Texas.
Dedicated to enhancing property values and quality of life.
We provide resources and activities for all residents.

Welcome to Our Community

Join us in building a vibrant community in Mineola, Texas. Together, we promote safety, enjoyment, and camaraderie.

Community Highlights

Discover the benefits of being part of Spring Lake HOA.
Join us for events, improve community aesthetics, and stay informed.

Local Safety Initiatives

To improve safety in our neighborhood, we need to prioritize community engagement and enhance security measures. Each of us will need to be vigilant, report suspicious activities and get to know as many of our neighbors as we can.  It begins with the actions we take to keep our neighbors and ourselves  safe and secure in our community—protecting people, property, and assets by deterring any criminal activity.

Let’s take a look at some ways we can improve safety.

1. EFFECTIVE LIGHTING STRATEGIES

Studies show that lighting is highly effective at preventing crime. One study done by the U.S. Department of Justice, reports that increased lighting can reduce crime by up to 20%!

Utilizing motion-sensor lights

Motion-sensor lights are an effective and energy-efficient solution for buildings and common areas where constant illumination like streetlights is not warranted. As the light activates when movement is detected, it can startle any potential threat actors and alert those nearby.

  2.   SMART HOME SECURITY DEVICES

Security is a shared responsibility. Residents can employ smart home security devices to help protect their own homes by using smart locks and cameras. Smart locks allow keyless entry and can be controlled remotely, helping ensure doors are locked even when away from home. Smart cameras provide real-time monitoring and alerts and can help gather evidence in case of an incident.

Integrated home security systems that combine various smart devices can provide comprehensive protection for individual homes. These systems often include features like motion sensors, door and window sensors, and professional monitoring services.

3.  ORGANIZING NEIGHBORHOOD WATCH PROGRAMS

According to the National Crime Prevention Council (NCPC), neighborhood watch groups are one of the most effective crime prevention programs in the country. Vigilant neighbors deter intruders and prevent potential property damage, theft, or other crimes from taking place.

Steps to start a neighborhood watch.

HOAs can help facilitate the creation of neighborhood watch programs by coordinating with local law enforcement agencies for training and meetings.

Keeping members engaged and active.

The key to a successful neighborhood watch programs is engagement. When neighbors are active in protecting their community, it can produce significant results.

4. CONDUCTING SECURITY WORKSHOPS

The Spring Lake HOA can also organize security workshops to educate residents on the best practices for home security to help keep everyone safe. The Mineola Police Department is willing to hold quarterly workshops or meetings with us.

Topics might include:

  • Recognizing suspicious activity
  • How and when to report potential incidents
  • Emergency preparedness
  • Home security measures

Neighborhood Events

Samples of other content for the newsletter...

Health tips

Yard

Auto

Safety

DIY

LOCAL EVENTS   CAR SHOWS, PARADES, RODEO, TOURNAMENTS, ETC.

LOCAL PLAYS, MOVIES, CLUB MEETINGS

RECIPES

GUEST COLUMN

SEASONAL NOTES

 

HELPFUL NUMBERS  POLICE, FIRE, AMBULANCE, NEIGHBORHOOD RESIDENTS

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A regular column on “Quick Tips”; short, to the point steps on effective ways to accomplish a task like easy ways to prepare a flower bed; quick thoughts on some popular hobby ideas; step-by-step information on removing stains from concrete or walls in a house….etc.

Share a tip of the month 

If you’re looking for monthly newsletter ideas, this one’s for you. But there’s a lot more to share on a monthly note than a tip. You can play with sharing a monthly interview, how-to video guide, or sharing other links to on-line videos of general interest.

Summer Yard Care Tips

It has been hot, and it’s going to be hot for another couple of months. At this time of year, yard care focuses on maintaining a healthy lawn despite the heat and dryness. Key tips include deep, infrequent watering, mowing at a higher setting, and strategically applying fertilizer. Weed control and pest management are also important, as stressed lawns are more susceptible to these issues. 

Here's a breakdown of some important considerations:

Watering: 

  • Deep, infrequent watering is better than shallow, frequent watering. Aim for about 1 inch of water per week, including rainfall.
  • Water early in the morning to reduce evaporation and disease. Avoid watering at night, which can promote fungal growth.
  • Consider using a rain gauge under your sprinkler to measure water application. This helps ensure you're giving your lawn the right amount.

Mowing:

  • Raise your mower's cutting height. Longer grass blades help shade the soil, retain moisture, and encourage deeper root growth. 
  • Never remove more than one-third of the grass blade at a time. This prevents stress on the lawn. 
  • Keep your mower blade sharp: to avoid ripping the grass and causing browning. 

Fertilizing:

  • Consider using a slow-release fertilizer: to provide a steady supply of nutrients. 
  • Fertilize warm-season grasses in the summer but hold off on cool-season grasses until fall or early spring. According to This Old House, fertilizing cool-season grasses in the summer can stress them. 
  • Follow the instructions on your fertilizer product carefully.  Try consulting the Wood County Extension office (618 S. Main, Quitman…903-763-2924) for specific recommendations for your area. 

Weed and Pest Control:

  • Control weeds by hand-pulling or using targeted herbicides. Be sure to follow label instructions carefully. 
  • Be aware of common summer pests: like grubs and take steps to control them if necessary. 

 

Summer Energy Tips

To save energy during the summer, focus on optimizing air conditioning, maximizing natural ventilation, and managing appliances and lighting. Adjusting thermostats, using fans, and ensuring proper insulation are key. Additionally, be mindful of appliance usage, lighting choices, and water heating practices. 

1. Optimize Air Conditioning:

  • Adjust Thermostat: Raise the thermostat setting when away or sleeping. According to the Department of Energy, you can save up to 10% a year on cooling by simply adjusting the thermostat 7°-10°F for eight hours a day. 
  • Smart Thermostats: Consider installing smart thermostats to automate temperature adjustments based on occupancy and time of day. 
  • Schedule Maintenance: Regular HVAC maintenance improves efficiency and air quality.  Consider having this done during Spring so you’re ready for summer.
  • Change Filters: Replace air filters at least every 2 months (we do ours every 4 weeks) to improve airflow and reduce energy consumption. 
  • Seal Leaks: Seal any gaps around windows and doors to prevent cool air from escaping. 
  • Ensure Proper Ventilation: Make sure furniture or drapes don't block vents. 
  • Consider Insulation: Ensure proper insulation in attics, walls, and floors to prevent cool air from escaping. 

2. Maximize Natural Ventilation:

  • Open Windows: Utilize natural ventilation by opening windows during cooler times of the day, like early morning or evening. 
  • Ceiling Fans: Use ceiling fans to circulate air and make occupants feel cooler, potentially allowing for a higher thermostat setting. 
  • Portable Fans: Use portable fans to create a breeze and improve air circulation. 

3. Manage Appliances and Lighting:

  • Full Loads: Run dishwashers and washing machines with full loads to maximize efficiency. 
  • Cold Water: Wash clothes in cold water whenever possible. 
  • Avoid Peak Hours: If possible, use appliances during off-peak hours to reduce strain on the energy grid. 
  • Unplug Electronics: Unplug electronics and appliances when not in use, as they can still draw power. 
  • Efficient Lighting: Switch to LED bulbs, which use less energy and generate less heat. 
  • Daylight: Utilize natural daylighting and minimize the use of artificial lighting. 

4. Other Considerations:

Water Heaters: Lower the water heater temperature to 120°F (49°C) to reduce energy consumption. 

Neighborhood Safety
Tips

 

  1. Report crime as soon as possible. Whether the issue is graffiti, petty vandalism or something much more serious, the police cannot act without first hearing about the problem from you. Calling won't guarantee that police can fix the problem, but failing to call can guarantee that they won't. Don't assume someone else has already called, make the call yourself. For Emergencies call 911, for non-emergencies call 903-569-6294.
  2. Report nuisances and other non-criminal problems promptly. When you find yourself thinking, "Someone ought to do something about that"-do something. Call code enforcement, landlords, residents, local business owners, or any other person or agency that may have influence on the issue. Then call your neighbors and ask those who are also concerned to report the issue as well. You can call Code Enforcement at 903-569-6183, or you can also file a Code Enforcement complaint online.
  3. Take away the opportunity for crime. Think about your home, your car and even your lifestyle and ask what you could change to take away the opportunity for crime. Lock your car and never leave valuables, even for a few minutes in the car. Trim bushes or trees on your property that offer too-convenient hiding places. Also, trim where trees and bushes block the clear view of your front door or make it difficult for a person to see out the windows of your home. Make your front porch visible and make sure your home looks like it has eyes on the neighborhood.
  4. Introduce yourself to your neighbors. Make a list of names and phone numbers of every neighbor on your block. Set a goal of at least 10 neighbor contacts. Each citizen is responsible for their own neighborhood.. It makes a huge difference to know your neighbors and be able to talk to them.
  5. Walk around the block. It sounds simple, but it is a great way to meet neighbors and get to know your neighborhood while getting a little exercise. Walk at night if you are comfortable doing so, and if not, your neighborhood needs more involvement. Chat with neighbors while walking, they will get to know you too.
  6. Drive slowly through your neighborhood. Stop signs, lights and speed bumps can slow traffic down, but so can you. By regularly driving slowly on neighborhood streets, you make it appear to any stranger that people are always watching.
  7. Pick up litter near your home. Even if you didn't put it there. Most people are less likely to litter where they don't see litter already. You can help stop littering in your neighborhood by taking away the litter that attracts it. Pet owners should make sure they pick up after their pets.
  8. Organize some type of neighborhood watch organization. If you are willing, decide what greater contribution you could make. Attend meetings if there is already an association. Keep informed of neighborhood issues. This is a great way to meet other neighbors who are also concerned. Even an evening walking group can help. For more information, please contact the Mineola Police Department at 903-569-6183.

 There are many more things you can do to make our neighborhood healthy, safe and clean.

  • Turn on the porch light at night.
  • Spend time in your front yard
  • Staying in one place-long term residents create stability
  • Help a neighbor in need-offer help with yard work or other projects.
  • Be the kind of neighbor you would want to have

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