Why Have Our Association & Dues?

A brief overview of the history and value of our association

Annual Cost

Dues are just $50/year (accurate as of 2025).

History

Our community was developed by the original land owner over 50 years ago. He created this association to manage rules for the fledgling community. In addition, some common lakefront properties were put under association control. These were attractive, valuable assets to the community, especially to the parcels without lakefront access.

Today’s Association

Over the years our focus has narrowed to promoting community camaraderie and governing our common properties. Unlike many home owners’ associations, we do not maintain a long list of restrictions to control what owners can or cannot do on their properties. Instead, we rely primarily on the existing, commonsense county and township regulations like all Edenville Township residents.

Common Properties

Two common properties are owned by the association. Property owners have NO ownership of these parcels often called the "beach” and “park.” The beach on Island Drive is more heavily used for social activities and launching of watercraft via a boat launch and dock. Due to its small size and less convenient water access, the park on Anna Ln is less widely used but still provides enjoyment for a number of property owners.

Could they ever be sold?
In practice, no. By law, these properties could only be sold if all association members agreed to the sale. In addition, the park property is small, irregularly shaped, and has a steep slope to the water making its sale extremely unlikely.

Healthy Association Equals Strong Protection

It is not unreasonable for property owners with lake access to question if they get significant value from their POA dues. The short answer is "Yes!" Why? Because our incorporated association is an extremely strong, inexpensive shield against property taxes, special assessments, and liability for the common properties. It...

Defines responsibility – The association is the responsible, legal party owning the properties. Without the POA, ownership would be split among all of us.
Ensures maintenance – Well-kept property reduces hazards that could lead to accidents and lawsuits.
POA Insurance coverage – Liability insurance further shields individual owners from direct claims.
Tax Exempt Status - The nonprofit status of the association means zero property tax and special assessments.

Staying current on our dues is the number one thing each of us can do to ensure we maintain these legal protections and tax exempt status. If you want to do even more, consider volunteering or running for a board position!

The Bottom Line

By being a dues paying member in good standing, each of us helps ourselves and our neighbors by maintaining the legal protections and social benefits of our association! Our small annual dues payment ensures we have an association that shields us from property taxes, legal issues, and works to bring us together as a community.

Note: The board and active volunteers work hard to keep our dues so low by donating time, equipment, and expertise. The majority of our dues are spent for insurance, occasional legal services, common property upkeep (e.g., fence repair), and social activities. In addition, a small amount goes to maintain the volunteer managed website you are currently visiting.