FHGC Budget Meeting - September 30

Every fall, the community gathers to review the Garden's budget for the coming year. Since the FHGC's fiscal year runs from October to September, this gathering takes place before a new accounting period begins. Put September 30th on your calendar now - meeting will take place at the Community House at 7:30 pm. Copies of the proposed 2024-2025 budget will be mailed to each homeowner in early September, but additional copies will be on hand at the meeting as well. Please note: the Board accepts written comments, suggestions, and questions on budgetary matters from our community members during the annual Budget Meeting.

Maintenance Invoices

Heading to Homeowners -

Few Behind with Payments

Once the budget is approved, it's time for the distribution of the 2024-2025 maintenance invoices. Keep an eye out for them! They will be distributed next month and are due by January 1st.

The timely collection of these charges is crucial for the ongoing upkeep of all aspects of our neighborhood, from our majestic trees, well-maintained streets, inviting lighting, clear signage, to the serene parks, and even the essential storm drains and sewers that quietly work behind the scenes in our charming private community. It is this remarkable collective support (and the heartwarming volunteer involvement!) that fuels the gears of our community, enabling it to function seamlessly and flourish. This shared commitment not only nurtures our homes - our cherished nest eggs - but also ensures that our neighborhood receives the attention it deserves, safeguarding and enhancing our valued Gardens investments to foster growth and prosperity.

As a community deeply rooted in collaboration and shared responsibility, it is heartening to see the dedication of the majority of our neighbors in safeguarding our treasured assets. However, it is with regret that the Gardens must address the issue of non-contributing members who have neglected their responsibilities. The proactive steps taken by our Law Committee, including legal actions resulting in Small Claims Court judgments, exemplify our unwavering commitment to upholding community standards. It is crucial that each resident recognizes their role in preserving the harmony and integrity of the Gardens.

As outlined in our bylaws, Article III, Section 8, notice of outstanding maintenance charges must be given annually, together with the name and address of all members not in good standing. A full accounting will be provided at the upcoming budget meeting.

Audited 2023 Financials Available

To FHGC Members:

Our auditors, Marin and & Montanye, LLP, certified public accountants, have completed the Financial Report, dated July 1, 2024, for the FHGC Fiscal Year ending September 30th, 2023.  It can be accessed here as well as on our website. Additionally, paper copies are available at the FHGC office upon request.   

Sincerely,

Eric Almeida

Treasurer

Neighborhood Tree Challenge--can you identify this tree? (answer below)

Bird Migration Through the Gardens

It is that time of year to be on the lookout for migrating birds. Peak fall migration in NYC often occurs between mid-August and mid-October. Forest Hills Gardens is situated directly in the "The Atlantic Flyway" migration corridor. It is one of four major migration corridors in North America. It stretches from Greenland and Nova Scotia in the north along the eastern coast in North America to the tropics of the Caribbean. Since NYC is on their direct path, our yards and parks provide ideal spots for migratory birds to rest and refuel on their epic journeys. 

Fall in the Gardens....

As fall ushers in some delightful cool, crisp air, and we all breathe a collective sigh of relief, it is time to do a spot of pruning in the garden! Once your summer perennials have finished blooming for the season, cut them back vigorously with a pair of pruning shears. Those plants that benefit from a strong pruning include peonies, roses, black-eyed susans, purple cone flowers, day lilies, daisies, hydrangeas and astilbes. All non-flowering shrubs can also be pruned in the fall, including evergreens, which generally only require a light pruning.

Tree Trimming to Resume

Tree trimming is primarily done in the spring and fall. As we move out of summer, be on the lookout for Almstead tree service, the certified arborists we have contracted to handle our trees. This time of year, they will focus on deadwood and maintaining a healthy canopy. E-blasts notifying you of the need to clear your car from the targeted streets will be coming out shortly. Planning to be away? Leave your keys with a neighbor and share your emergency contact number with the Gardens office staff to avoid towing expenses.

Spiky balls on Sweet Gum Tree

FHGC Community Workshop

Thursday, September 12 at 7pm

The Community House, 15 Borage Place

The Forest Hills Gardens Corporation invites its members to participate in a Community Workshop with VHB, a nationally recognized transportation planning, design and engineering firm. 

As part of an ongoing effort to optimize the use and safety of FHGC roadways, residents will hear about safety measures that were recently implemented as part of our study and provide input on additional measures that should be taken into consideration. We look forward to seeing you there.