The Village is only 25 percent built out. This means we pay to maintain a lot of infrastructure that is not being used. Moreover, as the roads, sewer, water lines, streetlights, etc., break we have to pay for their repair. From what I heard, our assessments should be $110 a month to cover growing expenses.
To avoid that kind of increase, we need to make the Village more attractive to buyers whose tastes have changed. However, to entice developers to build here, we need a 20-year plan that reflects the current homebuyer trends and needs. Since the developer will foot the cost, no developer will build without such a plan. I have heard such a plan already existed but perhaps it was too outdated.
Out of 34,000 lots, 10,000 are in delinquency and liens are in place. However, until the lot is sold, the Village gets nothing. In the meantime, to better utilize our resources, the board is considering de-commissioning the water and sewer lines for lots with no homes, reducing amenity subsidies, and reducing operating expenses.
Another idea being considered is to build town centers with venues for retail and entertainment. The reasoning is to attract tax money through controlled tourism. Areas being considered are the Coronado Community Center, Way Point and Grove Park. The rationale is that when people come to recreate, they will spend money and even may want to live here. The company developing the plan will be here until the end of February. I encourage you to attend the meetings.
For more information, contact the POA and ask to be placed on their E-blast list. They send out information weekly. In addition, check out the website.

Suellen Wiggins
Hot Springs Village