Architecture Committee Update

Steve Sainton, Architecture Committee Chair

What’s new with the Architecture Committee Unfortunately, Woodgate has a very poorly drafted set of Deed Restrictions.

In 1983, Deed Restrictions were new and evolving. The developer of Woodgate tried to keep them as simple as possible but failed to include a structure for management or funding and didn't provide any standards for maintenance. That means the enforcement of our CC&Rs was loosely defined. The Architecture Committee, plus any property owner, has the power to enforce.

Understanding the Difference between our CC&Rs and Woodgate Neighborhood Association

Covenants, Conditions, and Restrictions (CC&Rs)

We have CC&Rs filed by the original developer that are binding and enforceable on every property throughout Woodgate.

Woodgate Neighborhood Association (WNA) The WNA was formed to support the Architecture Committee, as well as promote the health, safety and welfare of Woodgate. WNA membership is voluntary and the dues are used towards the betterment of our subdivision. That includes hosting social events to help build a connected community throughout Woodgate.

CC&R Enforcement We've successfully enlisted the City of Carrollton to help enforce complaints of high weeds, trash and parking violations. However, there have been (and still are) violations of our CC&Rs in our subdivision. We'll continue to address these issues to the best of our abilities.

We have recent legal opinions, as well as one from 1994, that require us to enforce in a consistent and uniform manner. Our enforcement options have been to file suit or seek an injunction. Both of those actions are very costly and beyond the financial means of our neighborhood association.

1213 Sycamore

It was recently suggested we file a Notice of Non-Compliance with Denton County specifically for 1213 Sycamore. Our legal team informed the Board of the potential risk of a lawsuit if we were to take this action. The Board decided the risk exceeds the reward in this case. The City of Carrollton is continuing to keep pressure on the owner of 1213 Sycamore to get the property cleaned up and habitable.

1206 Mackie

Our most recent action stems from a neighbor complaint regarding 1206 Mackie Drive. It is being advertised online for use as an Assisted Living Facility. The owner has filed for a license with Texas Health and Human Services Commission. In addition, there are three bedrooms available for rent within this home, which does constitute a business and multi-family use. Neither of those are allowed by our CC&Rs. The resulting increase in traffic and parking from the staff and families would burden a street that is already tight. We're not picking on this property owner, just trying to enforce the CC&Rs in a consistent and uniform manner as advised by our council.

Questions or Concerns?

Are there any other questions and concerns regarding our CC&R's? If so, please contact the Architecture Committee at review@woodgateneighbors.com.