FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT

THE UNIVERSITY HILLS ASSOCIATION OF HOMEOWNERS

 

 

Is the University Hills Association of Homeowners the same as the Neighborhood Association?

Yes, the names are used interchangeably.  The term neighborhood association welcomes everyone in University Hills regardless of whether they own their home or lease it.

 

How does the Neighborhood Association differ from the Las Colinas Association?

H      The Neighborhood Association is a voluntary organization.

H      Our interests are limited to University Hills neighborhood while Las Colinas represents all businesses and 11 neighborhoods.

H      We strive to empower residents to work together to improve and maintain the quality of life in our neighborhood.

H      We aim to foster strong neighborhood communication and to bring neighbors together.

H      We promote the creation of a strong sense of neighborhood identity.

 

Why is a Neighborhood Association important?

H      Provides a sense of community for our neighborhood.

H      Addresses neighborhood issues in a coordinated and organized manner.

H      Provides a common voice for your concerns.

H      Facilitates communication between neighbors.

H      Coordinates frequent events that promote the neighborhood’s vitality and well being.

H      Promotes a safer neighborhood.

 

Why should I join?

The biggest asset a neighborhood group has is its people.  Without residents’ involvement and membership the Neighborhood Association can not operate.  The greatest contribution you, as an individual, can make in your neighborhood is to make yourself available.  Utilizing your enthusiasm and unique skills for the betterment of your neighborhood can be a great personal experience.  Your modest dues go to fund projects and events just for the University Hills neighborhood.

 

What is the current membership of the Neighborhood Association?

There are 450 households in University Hills and as of October 2001 our membership was 170.  Our goal is to double that in 2002.

 

What has the Neighborhood Association accomplished this year?

H      Conducted a Christmas decorating contest and awarded prizes.

H      Began a quarterly newsletter (The Beacon).

H      Established a neighborhood web page (www.universityhills.net) .

H      Designed a logo and marketing element for the neighborhood.

H      Designed and had installed neighborhood identification signs at all entrances into the neighborhood.

H      Applied for and was awarded an $1,800 city grant to offset the cost for neighborhood identification signs.

H      Held a Spring Festival attended by over 300 people.

H      Assisted with the Fourth of July flag display.

H      Organized the Neighborhood Network that provides a system of communication throughout the neighborhood using 44 volunteer block captains.

H      Worked with the City and Las Colinas to design improvements to Old Rochelle Park.

H      Worked with Las Colinas to install flags at Rochelle and Wingren.

H      Convinced the City to move water storage tanks to south side of Northgate.

H      Convinced the City to accomplish improvements to Northgate within the existing curb lines.

H      Worked with the City and Las Colinas on various other infrastructure improvements in and around the neighborhood.

H      Conducted a census of all households in the neighborhood.

H      Increased membership by over 400%.

 

What projects does the Neighborhood Association have planned for the end of 2001 and 2002?

H      Implement a neighborhood-wide crime watch program.

H      Produce a Neighborhood Directory.

H      Produce University Hills neighborhood vehicle identification stickers.

H      Purchase and install coordinated neighborhood Christmas decorations.

H      Conduct a Christmas decorating contest.

H      Hold a 2^nd Annual Spring Festival.

H      Organize a July 4^th children’s’ parade and flag display.

H      Hold a 1^st Annual Fall Festival.

H      Much more yet to be identified.

 

What are the dues and how are they used?

Currently the dues are $50 per household for a one-year membership.  As our membership grows we may be able to reduce our dues in 2003.  In addition to funding all the above activities and projects the dues are used to pay for printing of newsletters and flyers and paying the monthly Internet charges.  100% of the dues collected are rolled back into the improvement of University Hills.  All labor is voluntary.

 

Why is it important to give my contact information to the Neighborhood Association?

To be a healthy and safe neighborhood we need to look out for one another.  Therefore your neighbors need to know who you are, who lives in your house, if you have kids and how old they are.  Also sharing of information helps us to get to know each other and become closer friends.

 

Will the Neighborhood Association provide the University Hills contact database to any other organization or business?

No.  The Neighborhood Association will only use the information for neighborhood business and will not print the information in a neighborhood directory unless given permission.

 

Does the neighborhood association have official by-laws?

Yes, they were adopted March 2001 and can be seen on the web page at www.universityhills.net or you can request a copy from any Board member.

 

When does the Neighborhood Board meet and can I attend?

The Neighborhood Board meets on the first Tuesday of every month at 7:30 in the morning.  The Board meets at the Las Colinas Country Club in the Mixed Grill.  Guests are always welcomed.

 

How do I get more involved?

The Neighborhood Association always needs volunteers.  All you have to do is let a Board member know that you are interested and you will be plugged in.

 

Where do I go to get more information?

The neighborhood has a web page with a wealth of opportunities and information.

Go to www.universityhills.net