1972

In 1972 E.J. Robson began the master planned community of Sun Lakes Phase 1 developed by his company named Sun Lakes Marketing.    He first built the clubhouse and a small shopping center which contained a very small Basha’s store and a gas station.  By 1974, 500 mobile home lots had been sold.  The first residents had to go to the clubhouse to get their mail; there were no phones or street lights.  There were nine holes of golf.  A volunteer fire department was established which lead to the fire auxiliary which transitioned to become the Sun Lakes Women’s Association we know today. Potluck dinners were very popular. 

1974

Yoga classes began at Sun Lakes Country Club

1975-76

The oil crises slowed down sales and Sun Lakes Marketing was in financial difficulty.  A $100,000 loan put them back in business but the company was unable to post the required bond with Maricopa County to continue building; however the county was convinced to release 20-30 lots at a time and the lot sales continued.  In 1978 Sun Lakes Marketing switched to building stick-built homes.

A community newspaper called The Splash, produced by Sun Lakes Marketing, began publications in 1976.

Sun Lakes Development Corp. (Robson Communities) deeded the Sun Lakes Community Chapel to the Chapel trustees and their successors.

The Sun Lakes Fire District was formed in July 1975
The Sun Lakes Sheriff’s Posse was established by Maricopa County Sheriff’s Department in the late 1970’s.

1979

Phase 1 (Sun Lakes Country Club) was completed and Sun Lakes Marketing began building Phase 2. The attached drawings were the original sales brochure for Cottonwood home buyers. One share of stock was issued to each purchaser although it had no monetary value.
 

1. Drawing of Cottonwood Country Club
2. CW Recreation area drawing
3. Stock Certificate

Unit 10 CC&R’s recorded 1/17/79 stipulated that 9 holes of the Cottonwood Golf Course be completed within 2 years of the first lot sold.

1980

Nine holes of Cottonwood Golf Course were developed and the Cottonwood Men’s Golf Association was formed.  The Cottonwood Ladies Golf Association was also organized.

1981

Property was purchased by Sun Lakes Marketing for the Ironwood addition.
Maricopa County paved Riggs Road which until then had been a dirt road.
The Cottonwood Ladies Bridge Club was organized and met every Thursday for cards and lunch

1982

Construction began on the Cottonwood Clubhouse complex.
Cable Lines were installed offering homeowners in Phase 1 42 channels at a cost of $9.95 a month.

The Cottonwood Tennis Club was organized.  

Sun Lakes Writers’ Group was organized.

1983

The Cottonwood Clubhouse complex was completed.  There was a dining room in the clubhouse as well as various craft rooms, a billiard room, exercise room and a small library in a courtyard setting.  The pro shop was located where the Cottonwood Café/Saguaro Room is now.

The second nine holes of the CW golf course was completed
Cable lines were installed in Cottonwood

Ten hot air balloons were launched from Cottonwood Country Club
The Cottonwood Boosters Club was organized.

The Kiwanis Club of Sun Lakes began and operated for 28 years in Sun Lakes. It ceased operating in 2011 having donated $600,000+ to projects that helped children around our community through their fundraising efforts.

1984

Board Members:  E. J. Robson, 2 Robson employees, and 2 Cottonwood homeowners selected by Sun Lakes Marketing made up the 5 member Board. The homeowner members were Edna Pitts & Bob Schriver

11/1/1984 Palo Verde Golf Course opened.

The Forum was created to serve as a voice for the homeowners on the Sun Lakes Marketing controlled Board.

1985

Board Members:  E. J. Robson, 2 Robson employees, and 2 Cottonwood homeowners selected by Sun Lakes Marketing:  Edna Pitts & Bob Schriver

Homeowner Dues:  $396

Golf Memberships:  CW $600, PV $350, Combo $750 (3 courses including Oakwood)

Unit 20 became the first gated area for lot sales.  Its success resulted in Palo Verde becoming a gated community.
The Palo Verde Pro Shop opened.
The Palo Verde Clubhouse was build. 
The Palo Verde guard houses were completed.
The Dancing Grannies were organized. 

The Palo Verde Ladies Golf Association began.
The Michigan Pool and cabana in Unit 20 was completed
A civic center was operated out of the Riggs Road Shopping Center.  Dances, banquets and community meetings were held there.
A new pro shop was built and the 18 holes of Cottonwood Golf Course were reconfigured
The 19th Drive restaurant and bar opened in the former CW pro shop building.

Nine holes of golf at Oakwood became available to CW/PV homeowners.
The Lions Club was chartered.

1986

Board Members:  E. J. Robson, 2 Robson employees, and 2 Cottonwood homeowners selected by Sun Lakes Marketing:  Edna Pitts & Bob Schriver

Homeowner Dues:  $396 + $36 Gate fee for PV residents

Golf Memberships:  CW $600   PV$350  Combo $750

A new putting green completed at Cottonwood (next to the driving range)
Street lights were installed in Cottonwood by SRP.
The Palo Verde Men’s Golf Association was formed.
Rotary Club of Sun Lakes was organized.
The Computer Booters of Sun Lakes Club was organized

1987

Board Members:  E. J. Robson, 2 Robson employees, and 2 Cottonwood homeowners selected by Sun Lakes Marketing:  Edna Pitts & Bob Schriver

Homeowner Dues:  $396 + $36 Gate fee for PV residents

Golf Memberships:  PV $450, Combo $750 (3 courses including Oakwood)    

The PV security gates were installed.
The Chuck Wagon began serving sandwiches on the patio opposite CW driving range
The Rotary Club operated the Booster van taking homeowners to Fiesta Mall, airport and doctor’s appointments
The Silver Foxes a performing dance group were organized
The Sun Lakes Hiking Club which had started with a "voice crying in the wilderness" became incorporated.

1988

Board Members:  E. J. Robson, 2 Robson employees, and selected by SLM Homeowners:  Hugh Wells, Jack Zimmerman

Homeowner Dues:  $546

Golf Memberships:  PV $500, CW/PV Combo $850,  3 course combo including Oakwood $1,150

Robson hosted a “We’re Glad to Be Back” party in a tent at CW parking lot.
Second nine holes of golf was completed at Oakwood.
Sun Lakes Community Theatre became an official club

1989

Board Members:  E. J. Robson, 2 Robson employees, and  Homeowners  Hugh Wells, Jack Zimmerman selected by SLM

Homeowner Dues:  $546 

Golf Memberships:  PV $500, CW&PV $850, Combo $1,150 (3 courses including Oakwood)

The dining room and restaurant operation which had been located at the site of the present San Tan Ballroom was moved to the Palo Verde Club House
The Capital Reserve Fund was established
The San Tan Ballroom was completed.  There was a need to replace the civic center located at the shopping center.  At the homeowners’ request, the promised ballroom was built.
The Sun Bird Golf Resort was acquired by SLM which is east of Palo Verde on Riggs Rd. and it was available for our use.
The transition agreements, which among other things, conveyed title to the amenities (including two golf courses) to the Association were finalized and ownership transferred to the SLHOA#2 homeowners free and clear of any indebtedness.  A new reciprocal agreement with Phase I (Sun Lakes Country Club) and Phase III (IronOaks) was approved.
Mesa Community College begins offering classes at Sun Lakes
November 15, 1989 the four documents comprising the Transition Agreement were approved as one package with 90% approval from the SLHOA#2 homeowners.. The four documents were: The Phase II amended Articles of Incorporation, the Transition Agreement, the Phase II/Phase III Reciprocal Agreement and the Lakes Management Agreement.

With homeowner approval Unit 26F in Palo Verde was added to SLHOA#2.

1990

Board Members:  E. J. Robson, 2 Robson employees, 2 Homeowners:  Bob James, Roberta Sisk were elected by homeowner votes only.

Homeowner Dues:  $546

Golf Memberships:  PV $525, CW&PV $875, CW&OW $1,050 Combo $1,175 (3 courses including Oakwood)

A section of Unit 26F was added to our community with homeowner approval
A new Cottonwood putting green was built
The CW irrigation system, excluding the golf courses, was replaced due to major pipe failures in old system

1991

Board Members:  E. J. Robson, 2 Robson employees, Bob James, Roberta Sisk

Homeowner Dues:  $546

Golf Memberships:  PV $525,  CW&PV $875, CW&OW $1,050

1992

Board Members:  E. J. Robson, 2 Robson employees. Bob James, Roberta Sisk

Homeowner Dues: $596

Arizona Department of Water Resources mandated all golf courses reduce water allocations causing Cottonwood Golf course to lose 14 million gallons of water allocation.
Cottonwood Golf Course was reduced from approximately 140 acres under irrigation to 90 acres by installing desert landscaping using about 12,000 tons of decomposed granite. 
Summer 1992 new Bermuda Tifway 419 grass installed on CW golf course 9 holes; the second 9 installed summer of 1993.  A new computerized irrigation system was installed with a new main, laterals and sprinkler heads.
The total cost desert landscape and Tif 419 grass project was $1,415,650.
Riggs Road was widened from two to four lanes.

An article about Mr. Robson and his development of Sun Lakes appeared in the Arizona Republic on 5/16/2011. To view this article:
http://www.azcentral.com/news/articles/2011/05/16/20110516arizona-storyteller-ed-robson-home-developer.html?source=nletter-news

1993

Board Members:  Homeowner elected Bob James*, Craig Currie, Roberta Sisk, Bill Bican. Don Drake (Robson Employee)

Homeowner Dues:  $596    

4 committees created by Board – Communications, ACC, Recreation, Golf
Open House at new homeowner office (trailer) which was purchased for $75,000 from Reserve Fund

Phase 2 transitioned from developer to HOA control in December and SLHOA#2 was given all facilities and golf courses and the responsibility to maintain them.  The money that had been in the Reserve Fund was used to replace the Cottonwood golf course irrigation system.
Capital Consultants Management Company (CCMC) was hired to manage HOA with Ken Nakari assigned as General Manager
Back nine at Cottonwood Golf Course closed for summer
Patrol dispatch office set up at Unit 20 gate house
National Janitorial was contracted at $7,850 per month.
Desert Care Landscape contracted at $15,250 per month
Sisk Park opens

1994

Board Members:  Bill Bican*, Jack Casper, Craig Currie, Bob Beckley/Dan Rondberg, Don Drake (Robson Employee)

Homeowner Dues:  $596

Golf Memberships:  PV $650, CW $850, Combo $1,050

Posse Building completed
Forum donated $800 to Posse for sign at new Posse building
9 hole ladies golf group organized at CW
MAACS golf scheduling system implemented w/ 3 rounds per course per week limit
65,000 rounds of golf played at CW/ 56,000 at PV
Cottonwood Golf Course named #13 in top area private golf courses in Arizona
Bocce Ball Courts constructed at Sisk Park and Bocce Ball Club organized with a membership of 250 by June 1995
Sun Lakes named in top 20 places to retire in Readers Digest’s, “New Choices for Retirement Living” 3,000 communities were considered and researched for this award.
Dancing Grannies won 1st place in 2 Seattle area competitions
Agave Quilters Club was organized 
Jason Morton, world renowned tennis player, organized first Bradshaw Tennis Tournament at Cottonwood Turn Signal at Riggs & Alma School installed by Maricopa County. Board voted to increase 1995 Homeowner Dues by $154 annually due to the need to build a Capital Reserve Fund capable of having monies available for future repair and maintenance of community facilities.”

1995

Board Members: Craig Currie*, Bill Bican, Jack Casper, Helen Root, Bob Beckley (First all homeowner Board)

Homeowner Dues: $750 ($154 to Reserve Fund), PV gate fee $136

Golf Memberships:  CW $850,  PV $650, Combo $1,050

Homeowner Dues increase of $154 voted by previous Board went into effect with all of the increase dedicated to the Capital Reserve Fund.
Intel Plant gives tram tours of their original facility to Sun Lakes homeowners
Sun Lakes Sun Bird Healthier Community Council formed and met with representatives from Chandler Hospital regarding possible medical center to be built at Riggs & Alma School
Sun Lakes Education Center opens in the fall offering three classes
Ken Nakari is hired as General Manager of SLHOA#2 as it becomes self-managed
A task force was appointed by BOD to rewrite our bylaws and CC&R’s that at that time favored the developer
Walgreens, Burger King and Dairy Queen open at Dobson & Riggs Rd.
73,527 rounds of golf played at CW and 59,222 rounds at PV played in 1995
CW Men’s Golf Assoc. has 600+ members; CW Ladies Golf Assoc. has 250

Palo Verde Road Management Association merged with Management Associations for Units 20-23, 24, 25 & 26 whose primary responsibility is to oversee road maintenance & drainage in PV.
Softball field moved from Riggs Rd. to Price Rd.
Sun Lakes Aero Club formed 
Interfaith Council establishes Neighbors Helping Neighbors to assist homebound or disabled community members 

1996

Board Members:  Bob Beckley*, Mona Ribling, Phil Wynn, Helen Root, Jack Casper

Homeowner Dues:  $750

Golf Memberships:  PV $800, CW $1,000, Combo $1,300

Final year that assessments from Robson Communities paid to SLHOA#2 for Phase 3 to use our amenities while theirs were being built.
Construction gates on East Drive in Palo Verde permanently closed by Robson
Name of 19th Drive changed to Cottonwood Café
Traffic light at Riggs & Glenburn Dr. began operating
Construction began on all SLHOA#2 lakes to install concrete aprons around the edges going two feet below water’s edge and raised up along the banks
Channel 49 begins broadcasting news of Sun Lakes 
Resource Center incorporated into library January 1, 1996
Final termination of original management agreement with CCMC 5/1/96
Jason Morton, Tennis Pro for Robson Communities, moved Pro Scramble to Oakwood from CW where it had been held for nine years

1997

Board Members: Phil Wynn, Helen Root, Mona Ribling, Dave Bolio*, Joe Cwik

Homeowner Dues:  $800

November, Bob Mariani assumes General Manager position as Ken Nakari resigns
Sun Dance Room and Cottonwood bar remodeled and dance floor expanded
The Palo Verde golf course irrigation system was replaced
Sun Lakes Medical Center opens in March 
Chandler-Gilbert Community Colleges begin summer classes
Riggs Rd. widened from 2 lanes to 4 lanes out to I-10

1998

Board Members:  Phil Wynn*, Helen Root, Mona Ribling, Dave Bolio, Joe Cwik

Homeowner Dues:  $800

Dobson Rd./Alma School beautification project headed by Dave Bolio of the Forum completed at a total cost of $105,000 funded by homeowner and Forum donations + $20,000 from Bashas and $17,000 from Intel (plus their volunteer labor)
Walking paths installed along Alma School and Dobson Rds.
September, Sun Lakes Branch of Maricopa County Library opens on second floor of Sun Lakes Health Center
San Tan Ballroom murals repainted by volunteers
Three phases of Sun Lakes unite to fight Pima Utility proposed 177% rate increase for building and operating their new waste treatment plant with efforts headed by the Forum who donated $3,000 to this effort
The first SLHOA#2 website becomes operational
Grille on the Green by driving range opens
Palo Verde Task Force appointed to study PV Clubhouse usage and make recommendations for improvements
9 holes of golf closed one day a week at each course for summer to allow maintenance work
Performing Arts League organized 

1999

Board Members:  Neil Curtis*, Bud Murray, Dave Bolio, Joe Cwik, Ed Mooney/Koperek

Homeowner Dues:  $880    

Golf Memberships:  PV $850, CW $1,050, Combo $1,350

Golfers collected books and donated them to St. Peters Indian Mission School
Cottonwood Tennis Club opens new “food court” adjacent to tennis courts Palo Verde adds new pro shop expanding clubhouse by 1130 sq. ft. and the old pro shop converted to a lounge
E-mail system for all SLHOA#2 staff members begins
The 5 Cottonwood tennis courts were replaced
New Adventures in Learning (NAILS) begins classes at Chandler/Gilbert Community College Building

2000

Board Members:  Neil Curtis*, Bud Murray, Dave Bolio, Ed Mooney, Malcolm Amos

Homeowner Dues:  $880    

Golf Memberships:  PV $850, CW $1,050, Combo $1,350

New Palo Verde Lounge opens as non-smoking
Photo I-D cards for membership implemented
Renters allowed to purchase annual golf memberships
Minimum gratuity (15%) added to restaurant bills
Café closed for the summer for remodel
Frank Banyai named General Manager

2001

Board Members:  Dave Bolio, Bud Murray, Ed Mooney*, Malcolm Amos, Barry Mostovoy

Homeowner Dues:  $910    

Golf Memberships:  PV $900, CW $1,100, Combo $1,400

Food & Beverage consultants hired to review our F& B operations resulting in management changes
Cottonwood Pro shop Golf Cart enclosure and veranda constructed
Thomas Guilioni named General Manager

2002

Board Members:  Ed Mooney*, Barry Mostovoy, Dave Bolio, Pat Schneider, Ethel Wagner

Homeowner Dues:  $910    

Golf Memberships:  PV $900, CW $1,100, Combo $1,400

New Friends program initiated by Forum
New forward tees constructed on Cottonwood golf course
Chelsea electronic tee sheet system implemented
#16 fairway bunker removed and green reworked at Cottonwood
Grass in rough changed from Regular Bermuda to 419 Hybrid Bermuda at CW
Cottonwood back nine closed for the summer
Tom Guilioni’s contract terminated

2003 

Board Members:  Barry Mostovoy*, Ethel Wagner, Pat Schneider, Fred Haubold, Phil Wynn

Homeowner Dues:  $910    

Golf Memberships:  PV $1,010, CW $1,200, Combo $1,510

Bob Mariani named General Manager
Bill Todd hired as Golf Course Maintenance Manager
Nine hole ladies golf group becomes available at Palo Verde
Sisk Park Ramada enlarged
Jonas Software implemented in golf, food & beverage and administration operations
Permanent water line installed from Well #33 to south lake to bring water with lower salt levels to the CW back nine
46,221 rounds of golf played at Palo Verde in 2003; 45,909 at Cottonwood
Cottonwood back nine closed for the summer
Groundbreaking for Robson Branch of Maricopa County Library

2004

Board Members:  Phil Wynn*, Ethel Wagner, Pat Schneider, Fred Haubold, Len Boyles

Homeowner Dues:  $980    

Golf Memberships:  PV $1,010, CW $1,200, Combo $1,510, 25 Play Card $800

Food & beverage survey sent to all homeowners
Benefit golf tournament and silent auction to benefit former employee, Lourdes Ortega nets $14,000 to assist family with expenses after accident leaves her paralyzed
Cottonwood hosts the PGA Westfield Junior Golf Championship
Over 400 members attended the Fourth of July celebration – the largest crowd
Ever

2005

Board Members:  Richard Hawkes*, Phil Wynn, Bob Spruiell, Nancy Pannebecker, Fred Haubold

Homeowner Dues:  $1,010         

Golf Memberships:  PV $1,050, CW $1,250, Combo $1,550, 25 Play Card $800

Cottonwood hosts the 2005 PGA Westfield Junior Golf Championship
Bernie Howe named General Manager
Homeowners vote of approval to expand the women’s fitness center at cost not to exceed $255,000 with no homeowner assessment
The McMahon Group hired to develop a Master Plan for our community
Back House” tours of SLHOA#2 facilities offered to homeowners

2006 

Board Members:  Nancy Pannebecker*, Richard Hawkes, Bob Spruiell, Rich Featherstone, Janet Quade

Homeowner Dues:  $1,010         

Golf Memberships:  PV $1,100, CW $1,400, Combo $1,600, 25 Play Card $875

New lap pool built
Wet and Wild Water Aerobics classes begin 
Voters reject McMahon Master Plan and the Better Sun Lakes Task Force formed

2007 

Board Members:  Nancy Pannebecker, Richard Hawkes, Bob Spruiell, Rich Featherstone, Janet Quade

Homeowner Dues:  $1,060         

Golf Memberships: PV $1,150, CW $1,450, Combo $1,650, 25 Play Card $1,000

Homeowners accept and approve one time $1,428 per lot assessment to improve the Cottonwood Clubhouse, Cottonwood Café and Palo Verde Clubhouse

2008 

Board Members:  Nancy Pannebecker, Richard Hawkes, Bob Spruiell, Rich Featherstone,  Janet Quade

Bylaws amended by homeowner approval
Riggs Rd. tunnel ownership transferred from Robson Communities to SLHOA#2

2009 

Board Members:  Nancy Pannebecker, Richard Hawkes, Bob Spruiell, Rich Featherstone, Mel Rasmussen, Paul Graebke, Gloria Combs

Remodeled Palo Verde Clubhouse re-opens 151 days after major remodeling and enlargement of the kitchen and lounge

2010 

Board Members:  Nancy Pannebecker, Richard Hawkes, Rich Featherstone,  Mel Rasmussen, Paul Graebke, Gloria Combs, Kathy Skrei

Board approves $108,000 from Capital Improvement Fund for racquetball court upgrades at Palo Verde
Homeowners approve an AT&T cell tower 25 year lease agreement with tower to be built near Maintenance Building
Homeowners vote approval to close Riggs Rd. tunnel
Board investigates possibility and considers usage for acquiring A-1 Golf Cart property on Arizona Ave.
Board approves construction of new pickleball courts
Programming on Channel 49 ends
New Golf & Common Area Maintenance building completed at a cost of $1,235K which was $515K under budget
On August 9 newly remodeled Cottonwood Bar and Grill and Saguaro Room open
Bylaw revisions approved by homeowner vote

2011

Board Members:  Rich Featherstone, Mel Rasmussen, Paul Graebke, Kathy Skrei, Bud Jennsen, George Thomas, Woody Neiman

HOA Dues:  $1,142

Golf Memberships:  CW $1,450, PV $1,150, CWPV Combo $1,650

Homeowners approve construction of new Administration Building at a cost not to exceed $800,000
San Tan Ballroom redecorated
Food & Beverage Survey conducted with 1488 responding

2012

Board of Directors: Kathy Skrei, President; Mel Rasmussen, Vice-President; Bud Jenssen, Secretary; Woody Neiman, Treasurer; Don Hicks, Director; Bob Spruiell, Director; George Thomas, Director

Homeowner Dues: $1,180 annual for Cottonwood residents; $1,430 for Palo Verde residents ( $1,180 plus $100 Annual Road Fee and $150 Annual Gate Fee.)

Golf Memberships:  Cottonwood Palo Verde Homeowners: CW/PV Combo $1,700; CW only $1,500; PV only $1,200; CW/PV 25 play card $1,100. CW/PV courses were available to residents of Sun Lakes Country Club (formerly Phase 1) and IronOaks (formerly Phase 3) at higher fees.

Major Events:

• The acquisition of the 2 ½ acre plot owned by Robson Communities, Inc., located  at the entrance to Cottonwood (Riggs Road and E.J Robson Blvd.)
• Homeowners approved purchase of the vacant land (67.6% of homeowners voted with an 87.4% approval percentage). Approval amount $ 950,000. Actual costs including legal fees was $915,000. This was the only vacant land adjacent to the CWPV area available for future needs of the community.
• Later in the year, homeowners voted to construct the New Administration Building on the acquired property. 64.1% of homeowners voted with 54.63% favoring building on the newly acquired property. John Dobson, a long-time resident, donated $200,000 towards the cost of construction. When the building is completed, it will be designated with his name.
• New Pickle Ball Court construction completed in the Cottonwood Clubhouse area.
• The New Friends/Ambassador Program which was started many years ago by the Sun Lakes Forum was taken over by the CWPV HOA under the Communications Committee. Ambassadors  conducted 81 new resident tours in 2012 acquainting them with the many facilities and activities available.

2013

Board of Directors: Kathy Skrei-President, Woody Neiman-Vice President, Bud Jenssen-Secretary, Nancy Pannebecker-Treasurer, Richard Hawkes-Director, Don Hicks-Director, George Thomas, -Director.

Homeowner Dues:  $1,238 Cottonwood & Palo Verde: $125 annual road fee (Palo Verde only); $163 annual gate fee (Palo Verde only).

Golf Memberships: CWPV Homeowners: CWPV Combo $1,700; CW only: $1,500; PV only: $1,200 / Phase 1&3 Homeowners: CWPV Combo $1,900; CW only $1,700; PV only $1,300

Major Events:

• Homeowners voted approval to authorize additional funding of $350,000 for New Administration Building project. This will allow us to build a first-class facility and provide us with a contingency fund should there be any unforeseen costs during construction. 53.3% of Homeowners voted (total 2,269). 73% of the community voted in favor of the expenditure. No Homeowner assessment was required since money was already available in Capital Reserve and Capital Improvement funds. Approval to proceed with construction was received from Maricopa County late in the year. Actual construction to begin in January, 2014.
• A new Restroom at the Palo Verde pool was completed and the Children’s pool at Cottonwood was renovated.
• A new Tennis Court at Cottonwood was built. This was necessary since one of the Courts, already at Cottonwood, had been converted to a Pickle Ball court in 2012.
• Two new Prius Hybrid Cars were purchased for our CWPV Patrol. These fuel efficient vehicles, which are used everyday, will reduce operating costs significantly.

2014

Board of Directors: Kathy Skrei,  President; Richard Hawkes, Vice President; Bud Jenssen, Secretary; Nancy Pannebecker, Treasurer; Don Hicks, Director; Jerry Lofquist, Director; Dick Norris, Director

Homeowner Dues: (No dues Increase) $1,238 ; Palo Verde Annual Road Fund $125, $163 Annual Gate Fee (Palo Verde Residents Only).

Golf Rates: CWPV Homeowners: CWPV Combo $1,700; CW Only $1,500; PV Only $1,200

Major Events:

• Completion of the construction of the new Administration Building on schedule and within budget. 
• New Rental Cart Storage Facility at Palo Verde.
• Installation of a new Security System for the Palo Verde Gates located at the San Tan Blvd and Michigan entrances.
• Construction of the Cottonwood Pool Restroom.
• Rebuilding the fire-damaged Palo Verde Racquetball facility.
• Renovation of the Cottonwood Pro Shop.

2015

Board of Directors:  Richard Hawkes, President; Dick Norris, Vice President; Mel Rasmussen, Secretary; Woody Neiman, Treasurer; Bud Jenssen, Director; Rich Featherstone, Director; Anne Montgomery, Director.

Homeowner Dues:  $1,268 Cottonwood & Palo Verde; $125 Annual Road fee (Palo Verde only); $171 Annual Gate fee (Palo Verde only).

Golf Rates:  CWPV Combo $1,725; CW only $1,525; PV only $1,225 ($25 increase on all Annuals from the previous year).

Major Events:

• Completion of Palo Verde Short Game Practice Facility which includes new putting green, chipping green, sand bunker and practice fairway for chipping.
• New Practice Bunker at Cottonwood.
• Cottonwood Palo Verde Library Renovation. 
• Palo Verde Maintenance Lunchroom and Office.
• Appointment of the "Health and Wellness Center Task Force" to assess the requirements and subsequent recommendations for a new fitness center to meet the current and future needs of the community.

2016

Board of Directors: Dick Norris, President; Mel Rasmussen, Vice President; Anne Montgomery, Secretary; Woody Neiman, Treasurer; Roger Beagle, Director; Bill Greer, Director; Bud Jenssen, Director.

Homeowner Dues:  $1,306 Cottonwood & Palo Verde; $125 Annual Road fee (Palo Verde only); $171 Annual Gate fee (Palo Verde only).

Golf Rates: CWPV Homeowners: CWPV Combo $1,725; CW only $1,525; PV only $1,225 / Phase 1&3 Homeowners: CWPV Combo $1,925;  PV only $1,425.

Major Events:

• The New Palo Verde Covered Patio Extension was completed and dedicated, creating a substantial increase in usable space and solving a needed capacity issue for homeowners. (Link to Photo)
• The HOA Board accepted a building conceptual study submitted by the Health and Wellness Task Force for a new Health Center. Conceptual designs are being investigated for estimating levels of cost.
• Additional storage space was added to the Palo Verde Maintenance Building and the Cottonwood Saguaro Room.
• The Cottonwood Country Club Buildings were repainted.
• A new and larger Golf Chipping and Putting Practice area was completed and dedicated at the Palo Verde Country Club.
• A Golf Practice Bunker was completed next to the Cottonwood Driving Range.
• 3 Flag poles were installed in front of the New Administration building for displaying the United States, Arizona, and Military Services flags. (Link to Photo)
• CWPV 501 (c) Foundation presented a check for $100,000.00 to the HOA.  Funds were given by John Dobson to be used for enhancements of the Administration Building. Monies can be used for health, education, or other cultural community projects.
• A major upgrade to the HOA Website was completed by Administration and Communication Committee personnel making it more user friendly to the homeowner and outside persons with potential interest in the HOA.

2017

Board of Directors: Mel Rasmussen, President; Anne Montgomery, Vice President; Roger Beagle, Secretary; Woody Neiman, Treasurer; Gay Zawatski, Director; Bill Greer, Director; Don Hicks, Director.

Homeowner Dues: Cottonwood  $1,344; Palo Verde $1,640 (Includes Gate and Street Maintenance)

Golf Rates: CWPV Homeowners: CWPV Combo $1,725; CW only $1,525; PV only $1,225  / Phase 1&3 Homeowners: CWPV Combo $1,925; PV only $1,425

Major Events:

• November 15, 2017, Cottonwood Palo Verde homeowners approved the construction of a New Coed Fitness Center Facility on the vacant lot area next to the Administration Building by a vote of 1,763 for and 891 against. Approved initial design of a single story 13,000 sq. ft., Build and Equipment are estimated at a cost of $3M.   4 Design and Construction site costs were considered.   An estimated assessment of $525 per homeowner unit was approved. Program proceeding to final design, cost bidding, and homeowner approval in 2018.
• Final phase of the Palo Verde Maintenance Building upgrade for efficient employee usage completed with addition of a mezzanine storage area.
• An additional 14 Golf Cart parking areas constructed at Palo Verde Country Club.
• Enhanced lighting of the Cottonwood Tennis Courts completed with the replacement of existing units with L.E.D.  lighting.
• A major releveling program of the golf tees at Cottonwood and Palo Verde completed.
• Replacement of all Patio Furniture at the Cottonwood Country Club completed.
• Continued upgrading of the HOA Website completed by Administration and Communication Committee personnel making it more user friendly to the homeowner and outside persons with potential interest in the HOA.

2018

Board of Directors: Anne Montgomery, President; Roger Beagle, Vice President; Gay Zawatski, Secretary; Woody Neiman, Treasurer; Bill Greer, Director; Don Hicks, Director; Hank Unck, Director

General Manager: Steve Nolan

Homeowner Dues: Cottonwood  $1,368; Palo Verde $1,722 (Includes Gate and Street Maintenance)

Golf Rates: CWPV Homeowners: CWPV Combo $1,725; PV only $1,225 / Phase 1&3 Homeowners: CWPV Combo $1,925; PV only $1,425.

Major Events:

• New Coed Fitness Center
• Ken Eller, Architect, developed plans and designs of the New Coed Fitness Center for presentation to the homeowners for review.
• March 3, 2018, the HOA Homeowners approved funding for construction of the New Coed Fitness Center.  72% of homeowners voted: 59% -1,601 units approved; 41%-1,120 units disapproved.
• August 31, 2018, Maricopa County approved the HOA Plan of Development for the New Center.
• September 14, 2018, Contract Bids were opened to choose a Contractor to build the Center. The Farnsworth Company was selected and vetted by legal as the Contractor.
• November 4, 2018, ground breaking for the New Fitness Center began.
• November 17, 2018, the HOA Celebrated its 40th Anniversary.  A record crowd of 733 homeowners attended the gala dinner at the Palo Verde Country Club.
• A complete remodeling of restrooms and installation of automatic hands- free doors were completed for the Cottonwood Country Club.
• Enhanced lighting projects at Cottonwood and Palo Verde Country Club Tennis Courts were completed.
• A major releveling program of the golf tees at Cottonwood and Palo Verde were completed.
• Pickle Ball continues to grow as a major activity for the HOA.

2019

Board of Directors: Anne Montgomery, President; Roger Beagle, Vice President; Gay Zawatski, Secretary; Woody Neiman, Treasurer; Don Hicks, Director; Hank Unck, Director; Bud Jenssen, Director

General Manager: Steve Nolan

Homeowner Dues:  Cottonwood $1,420, Palo Verde $1,782 (includes Gate and Road Maintenance)

Golf Rates: CWPV Homeowners: CWPV Combo $1,875; PV only $1,375 / Phase 1&3 Homeowners: CWPV Combo $2,075; PV only $1,575

Major Events:

• Fitness Activity Center has concrete footings in place. The sewer, water and electrical lines were installed and backfilled.
• An Open House on the poured concrete slab was held at the new Fitness Activity Center for homeowners.
• The Recreation/Entertainment Committee created a Water Volleyball Workshop to gauge the interest at CWPV.
• Dick Gothier retires as Patrol Manager after many years. 
• Water Volleyball was approved for a 6 month trial period from August 2019 through January 2020, Tuesday & Thursdays 3:30 PM to 6:30 PM.
• The Board accepted the Pickleball Study Group's recommendation to have the HOA Architect do a feasibility study for additional Pickleball courts.
• The Board approved preliminary Architectural details for the proposed CW Restaurant renovations.
• The Board approved funds for updated Architectural design and engineering plans for additional Pickleball Courts.
• The Palo Verde Bar offers dining options on Monday and Tuesday nights until 8:00 PM.
• Celebration of Golf had a record number of attendees; 500+ at the Palo Verde Restaurant & Patio.
• The Fitness Activity Center (FAC) Ribbon Cutting was on December 7th and Opening was on December 9th.  Resident usage during the first week totaled 3500+ residents. The FAC was paid for by a homeowner assessment of $608 per unit and opened debt free.
• CWPV installed LED lighting throughout the Community reducing heat and energy costs. This is in a partnership with SRP.
• All of the Cottonwood Palo Verde Pools have been converted to energy efficient variable speed pump motors. Besides being energy efficient this will allow for a longer service life.
• The CWPV Food & Beverage Operations remained very busy during 2019 with over $3.6+ million in revenue and 105+ staff members.

2020

Board of Directors: Roger Beagle, President; Gay Zawatski, Vice President; Frank Gould, Treasurer; Hank Unck, Secretary; Woody Neiman, Director (Passed Away); Don Hicks, Director; Bud Jenssen, Director; Irene D'Aloisio, Director

General Manager: Steve Nolan

Homeowner Dues:  Cottonwood $1,466, Palo Verde $1,837 (includes Gate and Road Maintenance)

Golf Rates:  CWPV Homeowners: CWPV Combo $1,875; PV only $1,375 / Phase 1&3 Homeowners: CWPV Combo $2,075; PV only $1,575

Major Events:

• Approved preliminary Design and Construction Documents for the proposed Remodel of the Cottonwood Bar and Grille. 
• 8th spotless audit of the HOA#2 accounting records.
• Water volleyball became a permanent activity at the Cottonwood Pool 
• Covid-19 arrives in Sun Lakes.  The Fitness Activity Center closed on 3/18/2020 due to Covid-19.
• The Community continued to deal with Covid-19  with the Fitness Activity Center, the Pools, Cottonwood Bar & Grille, Tennis Courts, Pickle Ball Courts and Bocci Courts being closed. The Palo Verde Restaurant remained open with curbside pickup. Homeowners were under a Statewide Stay-at-Home order due to the Coronavirus. T
• Enhancement and Remodeling of the Cottonwood Bar and Grille was approved.
• The HOA Management is following CDC, State and Maricopa County guidelines to keep our members safe during COVID. Both golf courses remained open with golfers riding one to a cart in order to maintain social distancing. The Fitness Activity Center again closes by order of the Arizona Department of Health.
• Board Treasurer Woody Nieman passed away, Irene D’Aloisio served Mr. Nieman’s remaining term. 
• The Board approved the Remodel and Expansion of the Palo Verde Restrooms.
• Fitness Activity Center reopens on August 28, 2020 at 25% capacity. 
• The CW Bar & Grille reopened Monday November 2, 2020 
• The Board approved the updated Reciprocal Agreement between Cottonwood Palo Verde (SL2) and IronOaks (SL3).
• The Board approved the construction project for three (3) Pickleball Courts to be located just south of Cottonwood Tennis Court #1.

Number of homes sold in the year 2020 were 331 compared to 321 homes 2019.

2021

Board of Directors: Roger Beagle, President; Gay Zawatski, Vice President; Frank Gould, Treasurer; Bud Jenssen, Secretary; Don Hicks, Director; Len Horst, Director; Irene D'Aloisio, Director

General Manager: Steve Nolan

Homeowner Dues:  Cottonwood $1,504, Palo Verde $1,885 (includes Gate and Road Maintenance)

Golf Rates:  CWPV Homeowners: CWPV Combo $1,965; PV only $1,400 / Phase 1&3 Homeowners: CWPV Combo $2,165; PV only $1,600

Major Events:

• Renovation of the Palo Verde Restrooms was completed. 
• 9th spotless audit of the HOA #2 accounting records.
• Replacement of the 40+ year old Irrigation Pump Station #1, located at Cottonwood Golf Course hole #4 was completed.
• Committee meetings, events and concerts resumed in March after a yearlong break due to COVID19.
• Completion of three new Pickleball Courts at Cottonwood. 
• Renovation and civil repairs to the Palo Verde Irrigation Pump Station located at Hole #9 was completed.
• A refresh of the Palo Verde Bar and Restaurant was approved.
• Construction on the Computer Learning Center Project at the old Fitness Center was approved. It was funded by a homeowner donation and HOA funds: 60% Capital Improvement Funds and 40% Capital Reserve Funds. 
• Installation of a "Hearing Assist" System for the Saguaro Room was approved.
• Enhancement of the election process & procedures using Vote-Now Digital Voting was approved.
• LED lighting throughout the Community continues to be installed by Facilities Maintenance.

Number of homes sold in the year 2021 were 324 compared to 331 homes in 2020.

2022

Board of Directors: Leonard Horst, President; Gay Zawatski, Vice President; Frank Gould, Treasurer; Don Hicks, Secretary; Irene D'Aloisio, Director; Bud Jenssen, Director; Glenn Martinsen, Director

General Manager: Steve Nolan (Jan. 1, 2022 – June 30, 2022); Steve Hardesty (July 1, 2022 – Current)

Homeowner Dues: Cottonwood $1,540, Palo Verde: $1,931 (includes Gate and Road Maintenance)

Golf Rates: CWPV Homeowners: CWPV Combo $2,000; PV only $1,425 / Phase 1&3 Homeowners: CWPV Combo $2,200; PV only $1,630

Employee of the Year: Mike Bickford, Information Technology Specialist

Major Events:

• Completion of the Computer Learning Center Project (CLC) at the previous “Old Fitness Center” location.
• Replacement of the Irrigation Pump Station at Hole #13/#14, located at Cottonwood Golf Course was completed.
• A refresh of the Saguaro Room was approved and completed.
• Inflation, gas surcharges and supply chain issues impacted the Association.
• 10th spotless audit of the HOA#2 accounting records.
• Golf Course bunker work began at Cottonwood to improve drainage and sand conditions.(Link to Photo)
• New Friends/Ambassador Program began reporting to the General Manager.
• Cormorant issues were addressed.
• Retirement party for General Manager Steve Nolan was held.
• A Dry Well Drainage System for the water retention area was added at Sisk Park.
• Golf Course Five-Year Strategic Plan was adopted.
• Installation of over 165 security cameras throughout Cottonwood Palo Verde buildings and facilities began.
• Midge Fly mitigation procedures at Lake 20 began.
• Installation of 1832 irrigation sprinkler heads and 53 Satellite Control Pedestals at Cottonwood Golf Course were approved.
• Safety & Security Committee dissolved for reorganization and was scheduled to be reinstated in 2023.
• Electronic face to face attendance by Board Members was reviewed and allowed a maximum of 3 meetings per year.

Number of homes sold in the year 2022 were 286 compared to 324 homes 2021.

2023

Board of Directors: Leonard Horst, President; Martin Neilson, Vice President; Frank Gould, Treasurer; Tami Ronnfeldt, Secretary; Bud Jenssen, Director; Glenn Martinsen, Director; Cheryl Ravenscroft, Director; Irene D’Aloisio, Retired

General Manager: Steve Hardesty

Homeowner Dues: Cottonwood Dues $1,590; Palo Verde Dues $2,067 (Includes Gate and Road Maintenance)
 
Golf Rates:  CWPV Homeowners: CWPV Combo $2,400; PV only $1,640 / Phase 1 & 3 Homeowners: CWPV Combo $3,300; PV only $2,280

Employee of the Year: Judy Purcell, Accounts Payable Staff Accountant

Major Events:

• Installation of 220 linear feet of artificial turf at the CW Driving Range (Link to Photo)
• Professional Services to design the intended replacement of the Cottonwood Pool Deck
• Repairs to the leak at the lake on PV Golf Course Hole #14
• Purchased custom blinds for the Saguaro Room
• 1st Annual Community Survey went out to the Community.
• Cox Communication installed underground fiber optics throughout the Community.
• Maricopa County replaced all the roads in Cottonwood and the CottonVerde sections of the Community.
• Replacement of pool furniture at the PaloVerde Pool 
• Repaired the wood floor in the San Tan Ballroom
• Refinished the wood floor in the Dance Room
• Resurfaced the pool decks at the Kids Pool, the Michigan Pool, and the Palo Verde Main Pool
• Purchased additional Fitness Center equipment
• Purchased (3) Three Toro Fairway Mowers
• Installed shade awning and pavers at the three new pickleball courts (Link to Photo)
• Sold the Land Lease Agreement with Octagon Sun Towers, LLC for the communication tower located at 25437 S. Glenburn Drive and all related AT&T assets and improvements for $260,000.
• Sisk Park 1) Replaced the turf and lighting on the Bocce Ball courts 2) created a multipurpose artificial Turf Sports Court area (Link to Photo)
• Purchased 33 Irrigation Satellite Control Stations and 2,315 irrigation Heads for the PV Golf Course Irrigation System
• Replaced 4 golf carts at the PV Golf Course and 10 golf carts at the CW Golf Course 
• Remodeled the Ceramic Room
• Began work on new Website and Server
• Created a Task Force to review the current HOA Board Policies and convert them to Rules and Regulations, as recommended by the HOA Attorney
• Restricted entry at Board Meetings to homeowners in “good standing” with homeowner cards or those designated by the homeowners with a completed Authorization Form.

Number of homes sold in the year 2023 were 224 compared to 286 homes 2022.

2024

Board of Directors: Leonard Horst, President; Martin Neilson, Vice President / Treasurer; Tami Ronnfeldt, Secretary; Frank Gould, Director; Bud Jenssen, Director; Glenn Martinsen, Director; Maryann Sinerius, Director

General Manager: Steve Hardesty

Homeowner Dues: Cottonwood Dues $1,670, Palo Verde Dues $2,258 (Includes Gate and Road Maintenance)
 
Golf Rates: CWPV Homeowners: CWPV Combo $2,760; PV only $1,885 / Phase 1 & 3 Homeowners: CWPV Combo $3,795; PV only $2,625

Employee of the Year: Esteban Figueroa, Foreman at Cottonwood Golf Maintenance

Major Events:

• Signed the amendment to the land lease contract for the Octagon Tower Cell Tower.
• Jennifer Todisco joined the HOA as the Cottonwood Palo Verde Food & Beverage Director.
• Installation of 33 satellite control pedestals and 2,315 irrigation sprinkler heads at the Palo Verde Golf Course.
• 2024 Kia Niro LX was purchased for Patrol.
• Capital Contribution Fees were incrased to $5,000.
• Three (3) Task Forces were created: Cottonwood Pool Project, Technology, Reciprocal Agreement.
• Cottonwood Pool Project workshop was held on April 18, 2024.
• Additional Audio-Visual Equipment was purchased for the CLC Lecture Hall.
• $25,000 in Capital Improvement Funds were appropriated for Architectural Services related to the Cottonwood Pool Project.
• A Legal Review of Association Bylaw and work related to the CCRs was approved.
• Type 2 Reserve Study for 2024/2025 by Facilities Advisors was approved.
• Vacation Watch Patrol Golf Cart was replaced.
• $1,500 of the the $5,000 Capital Contribution Fee was approved to be set aside for the future Cottonwood Pool Project.
• The transition from a server-based Jonas system to a Cloud based system began.
• 40 patio chairs were purchasd for the PaloVerde Golf Pro Shop patio.
• RFQ for Architectural Conceptual Design services for the Cottonwood Pool Project were approved.
• Food & Beverage menu covers were replaced.
• The Rental Processing Fee was incrased October 1, 2024 for the first time in 10 years; $25 Proecessing Fee, $225 Amenity Use Fee.
• New house paint color scheme was approved with no "grandfathering".
• Cox Communication switchover was completed.
• The Board approved moving forward with the Conceptual Design for the Cottonwood Pool Project.

Number of homes sold in the year 2024 were 217 compared to 224 homes 2023.