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Homeowners might pay $71 more in fees

The increase would cover higher insurance costs and bulking up the reserve budget.

By STEPHANIE HAYES
Published September 22, 2006

WESTCHASE - Homeowners in Westchase may see a higher number on their community fee statement this year.

The 3,500-home community held its annual budget workshop Saturday at the Westchase Swim and Tennis Center. At the workshop, residents got a chance to speak up about a proposed budget drafted by the property manager.

The more than $1-million budget covers operating expenses, enforcement of deed restrictions, and swim and tennis center maintenance.

"This was just really what I would call a good community-based discussion," said Brian Ross, president of the Westchase Community Association.

The proposed fee for 2007 is $276, up $71 from last year.

The reasons for the hike? Ross pointed to three big changes, including a steep rise in community insurance costs.

"We all know what's happening in Florida," he said. "Our insurance skyrocketed. It went up last year about $90,000 beyond what was budgeted."

Ross also mentioned an increase in the reserve budget, money set aside for ongoing pool and tennis court maintenance, among other things.

In past years, the reserves were set at $60,000.

Ross said the board hired a consultant to review the reserves. The consultant said $60,000 was adequate, but the board could go as high as $101,000.

"The reserve actually was the one item which there was the least resistance to raising," Ross said.

Money was also added to the proposed budget to allow for the possible permanent hire of an administrative assistant to help out property managers.

The community association will vote on the proposed budget at its October meeting. Westchase voting members, representatives for each of the community's 29 villages, will also have an opportunity to raise any concerns.

Stephanie Hayes can be reached at shayes@sptimes.com or 813 269-5303.

[Last modified September 20, 2006, 13:08:20]