Town helps Kings Estate residents end defunct HOA

WARWICK - Papers were signed on June 8 formally dissolving the 40-unit Homeowners Association (HOA) that has been nonfunctioning since its conception yet has been charging the original 40 unit owners yearly dues. In 1993 when the developer used a clause in his approvals to avoid forming a homeowners association for the remaining 250 units the residents were left with no structure to maintain common areas or recreation facilities. According to Supervisor Michael Sweeton, a petition from homeowners and help from the sitting Town Board at the time resulted in the forming of a special district to raise funds from those residents in the district for the cost of maintaining these areas. This resulted in many improvements to facilities and regular maintenance of the common grounds in Kings Estates. Unfortunately, according to Sweeton, the original 40 units where the HOA was formed continued to owe yearly dues as well as incurring legal responsibilities for which they received no benefit. Through the efforts of County Legislator Noel Spencer, who represents the district, a solution was found that allowed the HOA to dissolve and their common land to be placed in the existing district. Assemblywoman Annie Rabbitt (97th Assembly District) stepped up to help secure a grant to defray the costs of the transfer.