It”s time to close down the Clear Lake Riviera Homeowners Association; it”s no longer an association for homeowners, not even close. Words like “homeowner association” make one think about swimming pools, tennis courts, security gates, patrol cars, yachts and boats. Unfortunately, these luxuries no longer are associated with the Riviera. A stern antiquated administration office now stands alone as its sole asset.
The desolate, outdated building on Soda Bay Rd. is a place not dissimilar to the notion of the “king”s new clothes”. Many of us in the Riviera see that it stands naked without anymore disguises. Former board members Alan Siegel, Sid Donnell, the continuing directors and office orchestrated an arsenal of illegal policies. They have patted themselves on the back with praise while intimidating several senior residents, elderly widows, property owners living out of the county and working moms and dads. They ordained themselves community lead volunteers, judges, and jury brandishing with bylaws never passed and out of date CC&Rs. The chamber”s only purpose has been to levee huge fines and harass the citizens. It”s been a parlor of injustice.
For those that haven”t been involved with what has happened here, be aware folks, it could continue. The “Riviera Courthouse” has been twisting the enforcement laws. Property is being taken from Rivierians without due process detailed in Article 12 of bylaws of the association. Association rules say legal action must be taken to enforce violations. Legal action is a mandatory process allowing property owners a chance to defend themselves. Freedom demands citizens are given an audience in front of a judge or jury before they lose large amounts of money. Riviera homeowners are denied this freedom by this association and get their property confiscated or are subject to extortion like tactics. It”s scary and alarming.
Here”s how the scam works. The association charges the property owner with a violation holds a meeting without the owner present and convicts him/her. They fine the person $250.00 per month. Sometimes the property owner doesn”t even know he/she is being fined. The office sends out letters but do not exercise mailing via priority or certified mail. If the owner doesn”t pay, it”s turned over to Allied Collection. They immediately add $1,700 to the fines. Not long thereafter, they own the property.
John Stoddard
Kelseyville
