Thank you to everyone who joined the recent Ridgemont HOA meeting. It was encouraging to see so many residents engaged in the future of our neighborhood. For those who could not attend, a brief recap and outline of what to expect in 2026 follows.
Trustee Update
At the meeting, we introduced and, with unanimous approval, voted in our new trustees, Deb Dotson and Vital Aza.
Our goal as a trustee team is straightforward: to ensure Ridgemont’s long-term financial stability and to make decisions that protect and enhance property values, while keeping Ridgemont a place we are all proud to call home. Learn more about the purpose of the board and members here: https://myridgemont.com/board-of-trustees/
Financial Realities & a Path Forward
We revisited the financials, which were also shared in the yearly assessment update. More critical is our proposed path forward. Best practices for HOAs recommend that reserves be structured in three “buckets”:
- Operating Reserve – 20–30% of annual expenses to handle normal variability.
- Emergency Fund – 10–20% for unexpected, high-impact events (e.g., major tree failures, storm damage).
- Capital Reserve – A dedicated fund for long-term projects and replacements (entrance features, major tree work, etc.).
Currently, we are well below these recommended levels. Before the next assessment cycle (for 2027), the trustees will conduct a formal reserve study and adopt a clear reserve policy so that decisions are data-driven, transparent, and sustainable.
Operations Updates
Recent and ongoing efforts include:
- Arborist transition: With the retirement of our current arborist, we are actively evaluating new arborists. If you have recommendations for reputable companies we should consider, please email us.
- MSD coordination: MSD is evaluating fence repair on Huntley Heights and assessing a stormwater waterway.
- Ameren streetlights: The Ameren LED program has ended, but all future replacements will be LED by default.
- County planning: We have initiated a relationship with the county planning department to explore options for tree replacement and plantings in the hell strips, balancing aesthetics, safety, and long-term maintenance.
- Deer management: Deer management continues under the supervision of trained professionals. As a reminder, please do not feed the deer, as feeding can create safety and property concerns.
2026 Projects & Priorities
Looking ahead, several priorities were addressed:
- Member-at-Large Roles & Volunteer Opportunities: To better represent all parts of Ridgemont and support succession planning, we are formalizing a structure for Members-at-Large. Our target is 8–9 total trustees and Member-at-Large roles representing the diverse array of our neighborhood. Several neighbors have already volunteered; we will follow up with specific streets and areas that currently lack representation.
- Reserve Study & Budget Planning (mentioned above)
- 3-Year Beautification & Tree Plan to take a proactive approach to forthcoming challenges and maintain the natural aesthetic of the neighborhood
- Indenture Update – Our indentures are over 30 years old and show their age. We will propose updates to ensure clarity, enforceability, and modernization, and prepare them for a vote.
- Traffic Safety: We will explore options with the county and residents to improve safety and compliance.
- Neighborhood Events & Community Building. If there is sufficient interest and volunteer support, we would like to explore one or more neighborhood-wide events that build connection and foster a sense of community.
Again, volunteers will be critical for making all of this possible. If you are interested in volunteering for a specific project (beautification, trees, traffic safety, or events), please email: [email protected].
Concerns expressed
During the open forum, several concerns regarding safety, parking, and misuse of the common ground were discussed. The trustees will address these topics at their first meeting on December 2 and will provide an update shortly thereafter.
Thank you again for your engagement, your questions, and your patience as we work through a period of transition.
With appreciation,
Ridgemont Trustees