Carolina Trace News

CTA Jul 8 Zoom Mtg Follow-up Details

POA Members -

As promised, the following is a link to the TRAM page on the CTA website and on that page, is a link to a google drive that includes the following files:

* TRAM overview of HDR's Traffic Calming Report

* The 109-page HDR Traffic Calming Report

* The mp4 video of the Jul 8 Town Hall (you do not need Zoom to view the video)

https://www.carolinatrace.org/p/CTA-TRAM-Info

Thanks to all who participated in the town hall and apologizies go out to those who could not get access on the 8th due to technical issues on our end. Zoom was a way to get something quickly scheduled with the engineer from HDR and allow for community voices to gather, but please know it is not the preferred method of gaining community input.

The conversation on this important topic is ongoing; please continue to direct comments and questions to your POA's CTA director.

CTA News! July 6, 2024

The CTA Board of Directors met in person on Wed., July 3. Included in this news brief are actions taken and information shared at that meeting as well as other pertinent community announcements.

Board Actions
Traceway Traffic Calming Update:
The Board voted to halt implementation of any traffic calming measures on Traceway until further study and community outreach through the POAs can be conducted. As reported to the POAs on July 3, CTA will host a virtual town hall with a representative from HDR Engineering of Raleigh, who will answer questions about the study.

The Board recognizes this as one of the many steps for Traceway issues that impact every type of user of that road. Access link to the Zoom town hall (the quickest way to get a group together, sadly) can be found in the calendar entry on the CTA website: https://www.carolinatrace.org/p/CTA-Calendar/event/CTA-Town-Hall-Traceway-Traffic-Study-Review-385 Instructions are included for those who wish to dial into the meeting by telephone for audio-only participation. CTA understands not everyone is familiar with using the Zoom app (free at www.zoom.us) so POA leadership may want to offer to host watch parties so many can participate with questions.

2025 Budget, Long Range Plan: The Board completed the enabling vote on the draft documents and this month, POA boards should be reviewing the CTA budget and long range plan in order to prepare your CTA director to provide your POA’s input for the August 7 Board meeting budget work. Just three POAs provided 2025 budget input for the July meeting (thanks to Hidden Lake, Woodmere-Trentwood and North Shore POAs). The final budget will be sent back to the POAs after the August 7 meeting, with a final vote occurring at the September CTA meeting. Instead of complaining on social media, provide real input to your POA’s delegate to CTA. To be clear, the 18 POAs collectively own, control and manage CTA; not the other way around.

Change in Monthly Meeting Day for Board meetings: In June, the Board voted to return to in-person meetings, which necessitated a change of our meeting days to the first Wednesday of each month.

Finance

2023 Taxes, Balance Sheet Work: The treasurer is pleased to report that the 2023 taxes have been completed. The good news is that CTA did not owe taxes. This year, additional research was needed in 2024 due to missing 2023 gate traffic logs. A process for these counts has been put back in place. The Balance Sheet work for CTA continues with research for documentation of CTA’s assets. The treasurer appreciates all of the hard work and hundreds of hours of volunteer time that it is taking to get CTA’s financial records in good order to comply with the bylaws.

It’s Census Time! CTA’s Census requests have been sent to POA treasurers and these forms are requested to be back to CTA by September 1. It’s important for both CTA and all POAs to account for each and every lot on the master plan for this community. Questions about the census can be sent to the CTA treasurer ([email protected]) for forwarding to the census committee volunteers.

Security & Safety Committee (S&S)

Solutions for Misuse of Gates Being Explored: S&S is researching solutions to an increasingly common issue of visitors and residents who have decided to branch out from tailgating and instead come in when an open exit gate presents itself. The Board will be considering S&S proposals.

Carolina Trace Residents Boat Registration: All boat owners (fishing, kayak, pontoon, etc.) in Carolina Trace should fill out a registration form that allows boat owners to stay informed about Lake Trace updates. This information has also been helpful in tracking down owners when boats become loose from their moorings and float away. This information is not shared with licensing authorities or any other parties. Details and the form are on the CTA website: https://www.carolinatrace.org/p/Lake-Trace-Recreation

Gate Sentry Registration Nearing 70% of CT Households: Use of the Gate Sentry system continues to grow and CTA thanks those who are using it.

Gatehouse employees report that some residents who have signed up for Gate Sentry are still calling the gatehouse for visitor passes. That is complicating the process and wasting the time of our paid security contractors. If you forget to enter guest information into Gate Sentry, you can open the app or the website and enter your guest and the Gate Sentry log at the gatehouse will be updated in real time, and in less time than it would have taken to call the gatehouse and speak with a gatehouse employee.

Trace Lake & Dam Committee (TLDC)

Community questions or concerns about Lake Trace or the country club’s management of the lake should be directed only to Bill Huggins, chair of the committee, at this email address: [email protected]. Bill is CTA’s sole liaison with the country club regarding Lake Trace and the dam.

TLDC Inquires About CTCC Lake Lowering Announcement: On June 17, Carolina Trace Country Club (“CTCC”) General Manager Ryan Naab advised the TLDC of the

Following, as reported by TLDC Chair Bill Huggins:

As has previously been stated, the completion of the work on the dam project requires lowering of Lake Trace. Being well aware of the recreational use of the lake during the summer, there were discussions about waiting until after Labor Day to do this work. However, in order for the earthen dam to be protected it is essential that there be mature grass ground cover on the dam. Considering that the hurricane season in North Carolina runs into November, there were concerns that heavy rain from a hurricane might cause the completion of the project to be delayed. If the work gets pushed out too far, it would be too late in the year to have certainty that the seeds which will be planted will be able to germinate and grow to provide the required ground cover. This left us with the conclusion that lowering the lake at the end of July is the safest option to ensure the safe completion of the dam project. As has been stated, CTCC will make every effort to ensure the work is completed in a timely fashion and that lake refilled as soon as possible.

TLDC thanks the CTCC GM for providing this explanation of what was a difficult but necessary decision to ensure the dam is properly maintained.

Hydrilla Watch! Warm temperatures and sunshine mean we’re back to our hydrilla watch. Please report the locations of hydrilla sightings to Bill Huggins at the above email address.

Lake Lowering Requests for 2025: Property owners and POAs that are interested in having Lake Trace lake lowered in early 2025 for dock or seawall work need to complete a form to request lake lowering. The form must be provided to the TLDC by August 31. The form is available at: https://www.carolinatrace.org/p/Lake-Trace-Recreation TLDC will review all requests that are submitted and will make a recommendation to the CTA Board of Directors to approve or deny the request. Any request approved by CTA will be submitted to country club which is the final authority on when or whether Lake Trace will be lowered.

Utilities:

CWS infrastructure issues (main breaks, sewer issues): Continue to report these to the 800# on your invoice and also to CT utilities volunteer Jeff Wennberg, [email protected] CTA continues to press CWS to improve its communications with residents. CTA needs this information to support any comments to state regulators that CWS is not fulfilling its commitment to proactively improve the infrastructure here.

Carolina Trace VFD Updates:

New Fire Chief Named: At its June meeting, the Fire Department’s Board of Directors named Robbie Wilkins as Chief. For non-emergency issues or questions, reach Chief Wilkins at (919) 499-5811 or [email protected]

Community Calendar – Open to All CT Residents:

July 8, 2024, 7:00 p.m. – Traceway Study Town Hall (via Zoom): This is open to all residents. The link and dial-in numbers for the meeting and additional information is at the CTA calendar on the website: https://www.carolinatrace.org/p/CTA-Calendar/event/CTA-Town-Hall-Traceway-Traffic-Study-Review-385

Housekeeping

The June 4, 2024 CTA Board Meeting Minutes have been uploaded to the website:

https://www.carolinatrace.org/file/document/3210774961/RgBro2biddORMN1A.pdf

Community Communications Improvement (Jeff Wennberg, Chair): Tired of slow to non-existent internet service? Join this ad hoc to research options available or potentially available to CT.

Volunteers Welcomed! CTA and POA volunteers are all residents of Carolina Trace, who pay the same assessments in addition to saving property owner funds by volunteering. There are plenty of opportunities for one-time or ongoing service to your community, either through your POA or the CTA.

The ongoing lack of volunteers – both worker bees and qualified Subject Matter Experts – continues to put a strain the small but hard working group of volunteers overseeing the CTA infrastructure. Contact the CTA secretary at [email protected] for more information.

Message Center Slides – If you miss an announcement while driving through the gates, you can read them at the CTA website at www.carolinatrace.org

**** CTA Hosting a Special Town Hall Zoom meeting for the Traceway traffic study on Monday, July 8 at 7 pm. Andrew Ritter, HDR Engineering, Inc. will be on the call to present their study and answer questions from the community. I will also send this to POA secretaries, social and communications directors.

Please help us get the word out into the community since a lot of residents tell us they do not get CTA information. I'll add this to the CTA calendar on the website and it'll include the Zoom link.

Zoom info below:

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/81912376487?pwd=5MO9HjnxZ2XKjLKYxFietHU54web5V.1
Meeting ID: 819 1237 6487
Passcode: 861690
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CTA News! June 5, 2024

The CTA Board of Directors met on Tues., June 4. Included in this news brief are actions taken and information shared at that meeting as well as other pertinent community announcements.

Busy Time for the Volunteers on the Board

CTA Executive Committee and Board Member Updates: CTA’s Board of Directors voted to approve President Joe Zanga’s appointment of Jody Jackett, Golf North POA, as CTA’s vice president. Jody will be filling the seat vacated by now-president Joe Zanga until the end of this term (December 2024).

Two POAs have had a change of director, and CTA welcomes Lee Amcher, Golf West POA, and Alan Mizrahi, South Landing POA to the Board. The CTA president will appoint a nominations committee to recruit candidates for the slate of CTA officers for 2025. Please consider whether or not you can serve your community if approached this fall. Once the nominating committee members have been named, we’ll share that information.

It’s Budget Time! These next few months the CTA board will be busy with budgeting for 2025. In addition to the 2025 operating budget, CTA’s Long Range Planning ad hoc committee completed their report and submitted it to the Board to review, so it will also be going to the POA Boards for review this month. CTA’s Board is comprised of one Director from each POA. The CTA officers do not have a vote on the CTA Board. POA Board members are asked to submit questions about these two items (operating budget and Long Range Plan) to their CTA Director for response at the July 2 meeting. The final budget will be voted on at the September CTA meeting.

Security & Safety Committee (S&S)

Update to Automated Visitor Pass System – Approximately 60 % of CT resident property owners and renters have signed up to use the new Gate Sentry system. Please use Gate Sentry to help ease the community entry process for your guests. Your guests do not need a smart phone in order for you to use Gate Sentry. Gate passes appear on the tablets used by the gatehouse staff when your visitor checks in. You can also access your Gate Sentry account using a web browser on your computer or tablet. If you did not receive information on this, please contact project manager Jody Jackett ([email protected]). Basic questions are also addressed on the CTA website at https://www.carolinatrace.org/p/Gate-Sentry-Guest-Pass-System

E-sticker Sales – Now available daily, 7 am-1 pm, credit or debit only; no cash or checks. You may want to check if the gatehouse staff is busy because early morning is traditionally a busy time at the gatehouse, when many contractors enter the community. S&S appreciates your continued patience and respect of the gatehouse staff, recognizing that SPA is a contractor enforcing policies put into place by CTA.

Carolina Trace Resident Boat Owners News: All boat owners (fishing, kayak, pontoon, etc.) in Carolina Trace should fill out a registration form that allows boat owners to stay informed about Lake Trace updates. This information has also been helpful in tracking down owners when boats become loose from their moorings and float away. Details and the form are on the CTA website: https://www.carolinatrace.org/p/Lake-Trace-Recreation

If you’re a boat owner and experience trouble on the lake, call the Gatehouse and they will dispatch a CT lake safety volunteer: (919) 499-2339.

Security & Safety Volunteers Needed! CTA is looking for additional volunteers for this community, from administrative help to various types of simple labor. Please ask your community members to consider whether or not they might have a few hours to help out. Residents can contact S&S chair Jody Jackett at [email protected].

Traceway Roads & Maintenance (TRAM)

How Can You Help TRAM? CTA is looking for POA residents with certain skill sets to help TRAM as consultants for proposal review, planning and maintenance. Please ask your community members to consider volunteering if they have experience with civil engineering, road construction, pavement, drainage, culverts, etc. TRAM would like support in vetting contractors and their proposals. Residents can contact TRAM chair Shawn Draper at [email protected].

Trace Lake & Dam Committee (TLDC)

Hydrilla Watch! Warm temperatures and sunshine mean we’re back to our hydrilla watch. Please report the locations of hydrilla sightings to Bill Huggins at the above email address.

Utilities:

Carolina Trace Country Club Update:

Club Closed June 10: due to road work on Country Club Drive, the club will be closed all day on June 10 and will reopen on June 11.

Carolina Trace VFD Updates:

Junior Firefighter Program: The junior program is for 16-17-year-olds and gives them real world experience in fire and emergency services. Juniors can take the same classes as the other firefighters, and they can even receive certifications that can give them a head start on a possible career. For more information, please contact interim Chief Robbie Wilkins at (919) 499-5811.

Community Calendar – Open to All CT Residents:

June 8, 2024, 8:30 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. – Woodfield POA Community Garage Sale (rain date June 15) at the Woodfield pool (2144A Detroit Blvd.)

Housekeeping

Thanks! Community volunteers planned and presented a Memorial Day observation attended by CT residents on May 31. Please thank your friends, neighbors, and club staff members when you see them:

David Bateman, Eagles Nest POA – flag ceremony
Frank Brown, Woodmere-Trentwood POA – flag ceremony
April Fleming, CTCC – program creation
Bill Gross, Golf East POA – National Anthem
Walt & Inge Hersman, North Shore POA – memorial wreath presentation
Andy Krey, North Shore POA – planning task force, Emcee
Ryan Naab, CTCC - speaker
George Orlovsky, Woodmere-Trentwood POA – planning task force, memorial wreath presentation
Jeff Sheldon, North Shore POA – community publicity
David Smoak, North Shore POA – planning task force, audio tech and event logistics
Diana Stepanik, Villages at Trace POA – planning task force
CTCC grounds crew – set up and tear down

The May 4, 2024 CTA Board Meeting Minutes have been uploaded to the website:

https://www.carolinatrace.org/file/document/3210774961/Xzar1Hs3iaHF6Faj.pdf

Community Communications Improvement (Jeff Wennberg, Chair): Tired of slow to non-existent internet service? Join this ad hoc to research options available or potentially available to CT.

Message Center Slides – If you miss an announcement while driving through the gates, you can read them at the CTA website at www.carolinatrace.org

In Case You Missed It…

CTA 2023 Annual Report: CTA’s bylaws call for the distribution of its annual report each spring. The 2023 Report has been finalized and uploaded to the CTA website: https://www.carolinatrace.org/file/document/2060225876/UJNhdJQRPYETOlCP.pdf

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CTA News! May 8, 2024

The CTA Board of Directors met on Tues., May 7. Included in this news brief are actions taken and information shared at that meeting as well as other pertinent community announcements.

Security & Safety Committee (S&S)

Update to Automated Visitor Pass System – Approximately 51 % of CT resident property owners have signed up to use the new Gate Sentry system. There has been positive feedback from visitors, guests, etc., citing, for example, the need to show a license only once for subsequent arrivals. Residents using the system say

much the same and especially appreciate the notice they receive when someone checks in at the Gate House. If you did not receive information on this, please contact project manager Jody Jackett ([email protected]). Questions are also addressed on the CTA website at https://www.carolinatrace.org/p/Gate-Sentry-Guest-Pass-System

E-sticker Sales – In response to POA requests, S&S will be adding weekend hours to the e-sticker sales times. Right now, e-stickers are available M-F, 7 am-1 pm, credit or debit only; no cash or checks. When weekend sales open, the update will be posted on the media centers. S&S appreciates your patience during this time.

Gate Work – In April, S&S replaced the visitor gate switch at Gate House with a more reliable model, and corrected the original faulty installation of, and apparent recent damage to, the South Entry gate. S&S replaced intentionally damaged North Entry gate (driver’s insurance paid). The opening/closing time of each gate on North entrance will be adjusted. If you notice issues or damage to the gate(s), email Security & Safety chair Joe Zanga, [email protected]

Carolina Trace Residents Boat Registration - All boat owners (fishing, kayak, pontoon, etc.) in Carolina Trace should fill out a registration form that allows boat owners to stay informed about Lake Trace updates. This information has also been helpful in tracking down owners when boats become loose from their moorings and float away. Details and the form are on the CTA website: https://www.carolinatrace.org/p/Lake-Trace-Recreation

Traceway Roads & Maintenance (TRAM)

Signpost Maintenance Completed: 40 posts were installed along Traceway and the entrance way. Thanks to volunteers who worked on this project.

Traffic Calming Study: Speed data has been collected, traffic observed, and report in progress. More to follow!

Traceway Tree Project: Additional trees will be replaced this fall when they are available from the nursery. The new trees that were planted earlier this year are doing well and are being cared for by CTA’s landscaping contractor.

Trace Lake & Dam Committee (TLDC)

Hydrilla Watch! Warm temperatures and sunshine mean we’re back to our hydrilla watch. Please report the locations of hydrilla sightings to Bill Huggins at the above email address.

Ducks Unlimited Wood Duck Nest Program: Three POAs (Hidden Lake, Woodfield and Sedgemoor) and six lakefront property owners have contacted TLDC about having Duck Nests on their property.

Housekeeping:

CTA Executive Committee Update: In accordance with CTA bylaws, CTA vice president Joe Zanga assumed the role of president of CTA following the mid-April resignation of Kate Woods. The Board will consider appointment of a new vice president at the June meeting to fill out the remainder of the 2024 term. The nominated individual approved by the Board will serve as co-chair of the Security and Safety Committee with Joe. Email Joe Zanga ([email protected]) for more information.

But Wait, There’s More!

Utilities:

CWS Survey: many CT customers have gotten the one-question CWS survey in their emails. If you did not get it and would like to let them know if you would refer friends or colleagues to CWS, please click this link to provide them with your thoughts: https://survey.uperix.com/?l=en&cid=n24c04&i=bc0f65b17a&v

Carolina Trace VFD Updates:

Fire Chief Job Opening: The search is on for the next Fire Chief. For a job description, please contact interim Chief Robbie Wilkins at (919) 499-5811 or [email protected]

Website Updated: CTVFD website has been updated with resources beneficial to our local community. Please visit it at https://www.carolinatracevfd.org/

Community Calendar – Open to All CT Residents:

May 21, time TBD - CERT Boat Transportation Exercise:

We will “rescue” injured victims and transport them across the lake to a Medical Treatment Area (CTCC’s marina). For more information, contact Charles Holder, CTA Lake Safety Coordinator, [email protected]

May 23, 6 pm, May 24, 6 pm or May 25, 9 am - Stop the Bleed Courses:
May is “Stop the Bleed” month. Anyone interested in learning how to stop bleeding in a person who has sustained a traumatic injury should attend one of these courses. There different days/times are being offered but you only have to attend one. Classes are limited to 20 people. All classes will be at the Carolina Trace Fire Department training room. The signup link for the course is: https://doodle.com/meeting/participate/id/b4Yz8j2d. For questions, contact Penny Turner at [email protected].

Housekeeping

The April 2, 2024 CTA Board Meeting Minutes have been uploaded to the website: https://www.carolinatrace.org/file/document/3210774961/pWUc7EHQWBW4IFiR.pdf

Read and learn for yourself; don’t fall victim to third-party “interpretations” as to what CTA is or is not doing. Your POA’s CTA Director is your closest source of accurate information. Questions should always be directed to your POA Board.

Community Communications Improvement (Jeff Wennberg, Chair): Tired of slow to non-existent internet service? Join this ad hoc to research options available or potentially available to CT.

Message Center Slides – Did you know? If you miss an announcement while driving through the gates, you can read them at the CTA website at www.carolinatrace.org

Thanks for reading to the end!

Community Hotline: Call 919.499.2722 OR the Gatehouse line, option 2. The hotline will provide the status of roads, gates, and utilities.

Questions or Concerns? Your POA's CTA Director can help, and is in the best position to point you in the direction of the correct volunteer if they can’t. Remember that CTA exists to keep the infrastructure common to all 18 POAs in good condition (Traceway North and South, gatehouse, gates, and landscaping of non-POA common areas). CTA budget and policies are set by delegates from each of the 18 POAs. Each POA is responsible for its own infrastructure, amenities, regulations, and lot assessments.

CTA News! April 12, 2024

On Tuesday, April 16, the Carolina Trace community will begin using Gate Sentry as part of our advanced community security measures. If your POA provided your email to the project manager as requested, you should have received an email containing your unique access code and instructions for setting up your account (which is accessible via a website or via an app for your smartphone). Printed letters with the same code and instructions are being sent via USPS to every property owner as well and should be received in the next day or so.

If you have questions or need further assistance, please contact CTA's project manager for this system, Jody Jackett at [email protected].

Please direct any issues to Jody Jackett as outlined above. Please note the CT gatehouse staff does not have additional information, nor can they help you with setting up an account. Also note that the current gate pass system will still be in effect while this program is being rolled out.

CTA News! April 3, 2024

The CTA Board of Directors met on Tues., April 2. Included in this news brief are actions taken and information shared at that meeting as well as other pertinent community announcements.

Security & Safety Committee (S&S)

Automated Visitor Pass System Rollout this Month –
April is the month! Property owners should be on the lookout for communication from Gate Sentry as outlined below to aid in setting up your accounts. This system will offer multiple options for requesting visitor passes. The approximate timeline is:

April 3 – email communication to property owners
April 5-8 (approximate) – letters mailed to all property owners via USPS, providing instructions necessary to set up your online accounts
April 16 – gatehouse staff training on new system

Questions should be directed to project manager Jody Jackett. ([email protected]).

E-sticker Sales – As reported in March, S&S has restored special hours at the gatehouse during which e-stickers are available for purchase by residents: Monday-Friday, 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. Credit or debit only; no cash or checks.

Gates – Volunteers continue to work with contractors when gate issues arise. S&S has been interviewing multiple gate contractors and soliciting recommendations to overcome inherent problems with the back entrances as they were designed. The gatehouse staff is unable to fix gate issues or dispatch repair people. If you notice issues or damage to the gate(s), email Security & Safety chair Joe Zanga, [email protected].

Traceway Roads & Maintenance (TRAM)

Bridge Work Completed – The work on the two bridges near the gatehouse has been completed. TRAM appreciates the patience of the community during this process.

Traceway Road Work Update – In March, “crusher run” was applied and roadside drainage was worked on, providing for better driver safety on Traceway. The community is reminded, however, that the maximum safe speed on all of Traceway is 25 mph.

Thanks to CERT Volunteers – Thanks to our community volunteers who directed traffic during March’s Traceway roadwork.

Trace Lake & Dam Committee (TLDC)

Community questions or concerns about Lake Trace or the country club’s management of the lake should be directed only to Bill Huggins , chair of the committee, at this email address: [email protected]. Bill is CTA’s sole liaison with the country club regarding Lake Trace and the dam.

Hydrilla Watch! Warm temperatures and sunshine mean we’re back to our hydrilla watch. Please report the locations of hydrilla sightings to Bill at the above email address.

TLDC members met with a representative of the NC State Aquatic Plant Management program to discuss the bathymetric study and vegetation (including hydrilla) in the lake. These findings will be shared with CTCC.

Bathymetric Study: As reported last month, the report (compiled from the mapping of the lake last fall) is now available for your review at this link: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1QDqzcB_Rn800XmgzrnrKFfJa1uapGW1U/view?usp=sharing

Duck, Duck (Not Goose): TLDC was approached by the Lee County Ducks Unlimited group to discuss the possibility of the group installing, at no cost to CTA or POAs, wood duck nests on land owned by CTA and possibly POAs or their waterfront property owners, around Lake Trace or POA ponds. Details on the nests are in this link: https://www.ducks.org/conservation/waterfowl-research-science/build-a-wood-duck-box

A letter from TLDC outlining this program in greater detail has been sent to POA leadership for their distribution to property owners.

Housekeeping:

Board Considers Outside Support: With the significant decline in volunteers willing to devote the substantial amount of time it takes to manage a community of this size, the Board heard very high-level presentations from two companies that assist other planned communities in the local area. For CTA, that could mean centralized and consistent maintenance of the infrastructure under CTA control (e.g., Traceway North and South, culverts and other drainage systems, bridges, gatehouse, and gate systems), with the CTA Board continuing to manage overall budgeting and expenditures. This would have no impact on how each POA decides to manage its own infrastructure and amenities. The CTA Board voted to have Board members and the CTA committee chairs put together a list of specific functions that would benefit from outside management before any further action is taken on this idea.

CTA Executive Committee Update: Kate Woods will continue in her role as CTA president for 2024; time sensitive issues/requests should be communicated to the CTA secretary ([email protected]) for distribution to the proper stakeholder.

Utilities:

CWS infrastructure issues (main breaks, sewer issues) - should be reported to the 800# on your invoice and also to CT utilities volunteer Jeff Wennberg, [email protected] CTA continues to press CWS to improve its communications with residents.

Carolina Trace Country Club Updates:

Thanks to all - CTCC extends its thanks to CTA, specifically those on the Security & Safety Committee, as well as the community for its work and welcoming of the club’s hosting of the Second Annual Will Lowery Junior Championship last month.

The club’s new general manager will be introduced the second week of April.

Carolina Trace VFD Updates:

Thanks and best wishes to Chief Meyers - After 20 years serving our community, Chief Meyers departs to head up a fire department in Guilford County, NC. CTA offers its thanks and best wishes to Chief Meyers, and extends a community welcome to interim Chief Robbie Wilkins, who is a Captain at the Spout Springs Fire Department.

Help with Smoke Detectors: CTVFD provides battery operated smoke detectors for homes that do not have them, as well as assisting in changing the batteries in smoke detectors if needed.

Community Calendar – Open to All CT Residents:

April 16 at 6 PM at the Carolina Trace Fire Department: Baptists on Mission Disaster Response – learn about the vast disaster relief capabilities of the Baptists on Mission after a disaster and during recovery.
April 19, 20, 26 & 27 at the Emergency Services Training Center: CERT Basic Course – a 21-hour course over 2 weekends (Friday night & Saturday) to teach people the basics of disaster preparedness and response. CERT is about neighbors helping neighbors and doing the most good for the most people in disaster situations.

Ad Hoc and Special Committees Need You! – CTA is looking for individuals to help with the following committees:

Community Communications Improvement (Jeff Wennberg, Chair): Tired of slow to non-existent internet service? Join this ad hoc to research options available or potentially available to CT.

Memorial Day Observation (May 27) – Volunteers Needed! – Last month’s request yielded three volunteers! There will be a logistics meeting this month and we need additional helpers, specifically:

Flag bearers (current or former military folks, we’re looking at YOU)
Logistics (setting up/breaking down some chairs, etc.)

This is a short (approximately 30 minute) program hosted at CTCC’s flag circle early on the morning of Memorial Day. Those interested in helping can email [email protected] for more information.

Housekeeping

The March 5, 2024 CTA Board Meeting Minutes have been uploaded to the website:

https://www.carolinatrace.org/file/document/3210774961/1ZeIJGwGqC1r3dXQ.pdf

CTA News! March 7, 2024

The CTA Board of Directors met on Tues., March 5. Included in this news brief are actions taken and information shared at that meeting and other pertinent community announcements.

Finance: Financial Records – Finance volunteers are pulling together necessary documents to prepare for the audit of 2023 records, which will occur later in this season. This includes an up-to-date balance sheet. Thanks to the volunteers who are researching CTA’s assets, etc., to aid in the updating of this important document.

Security & Safety Committee (S&S)

E-sticker Sales – Effective immediately, S&S is reinstating its practice of limiting the hours during which gate e-stickers are available for purchase by residents: Monday-Friday, 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. Credit or debit only; no cash or checks. CTA hopes to have the updated e-sticker application and a link to pay online shortly; POAs will be updated when this is completed.
Automated Gate Pass System is Coming! – The Gate Sentry visitor pass system is set to be implemented in the coming months. This will require the cooperation of the community to ensure a successful launch. POAs will receive requests for resident data from project manager Jody Jackett.
Gatehouse Updates - S&S continues to work with Southern Protection Agency (SPA) management with regard to staffing and CT gatehouse procedures. A reminder to all who use the gates that respect is a two-way street, and profanity and rude behavior will not be tolerated regardless of the source.

Traceway Roads & Maintenance (TRAM)

Traceway North Tree Planting Update – A total of 27 trees have been planted as of March 5, to replace Bradford pears that were removed at the county’s recommendation. The tree species are tulip magnolias and red buds. CTA’s landscape contractor will be responsible for care and watering of the new trees.
TRAM Work Impacting Traffic – The work at the bridges just inside the main entrance is estimated to be completed by Monday, March 11. Crusher run (gravel) will be placed at select berms on Traceway, tentatively scheduled for March 18-29. All bridge and road work is subject to weather. Residents are asked to exercise caution when workers are in the area. Message centers at all entrances will carry alerts on the exact dates of projects impacting CT traffic.
Entrance Damage Update – An accident near the main entrance at NC-87N last month caused damage to shrubs near the road. An insurance claim for damages was submitted and the damaged plants were removed. Garden club members are assisting with a new landscaping plan for this area.
Please Thank These CTA Volunteers – Please thank these CT residents for their tireless work the past few months: Ron and Debbie Moeller for Sign Island weed trimming and debris removal, roadway debris removal (5 full loads) and south side cemetery weed trimming and debris removal, and to Ernie Violon for his many years of work overseeing the TRAM committee and working tirelessly to keep the CT community safe and attractive.
How Can You Help TRAM? CTA is looking for POA residents with certain skill sets to help TRAM as consultants for proposal review, planning and maintenance. Please ask your community members to consider volunteering if they have civil engineering experience, experience in road construction, drainage, culverts, etc. TRAM would like support in vetting contractors and their proposals.

Trace Lake & Dam Committee (TLDC)

Community questions or concerns about Lake Trace should be directed to Bill Huggins , chair of the committee, at this email address: [email protected]. Bill is CTA’s sole liaison with the country club regarding Lake Trace and the dam.
Return of Lake Trace: The dam valve should be fully closed within the next few days, allowing spring rains to refill the lake.
Hydrilla Watch! Please report hydrilla sightings to Bill at the above email address.
Bathymetric Study Results Available – The report (compiled from the mapping of the lake last fall) is now available for your review at this link: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1QDqzcB_Rn800XmgzrnrKFfJa1uapGW1U/view?usp=sharing

Utilities:

CWS Rates - CT residents should have received notice of the Carolina Water Service rate increase that is now in effect. An analysis of increases through 2025 is available for review at this link: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1bjOEpkkFk4cqZCn-z7Z1BTNiUPYyQRMs/view?usp=sharing
CWS infrastructure issues (main breaks, sewer issues) - should be reported to the 800# on your invoice and also to CT utilities volunteer Jeff Wennberg, [email protected]

Carolina Trace Country Club Updates

The annual Will Lowery Junior Championship sponsored by the Amateur Junior Golf Association (AJGA) is scheduled at the club March 21-24. It will feature the AJGA debut of Charlie Woods, son of 15-time-major champion Tiger Woods. Residents might see additional traffic in the community during the tournament. It is tradition for Carolina Trace residents to host volunteers who are onsite to help with this event. Residents Phil and Eileen Edwards are organizing housing for volunteers; please reach out to Kate Woods if you are interested in helping out: [email protected]
Easter Brunch and Easter Egg hunt, hosted by CTCC, are open to all residents of Carolina Trace on March 31. See details in calendar, below.

Carolina Trace VFD Updates

The 2025 budget will be presented to Lee County at the end of the month; a copy will be available for review at the fire department during daylight business hours.
Junior Firefighter Program: The junior program is for 16-17-year-olds and gives them real world experience in fire and emergency services. Juniors can take the same classes as the other firefighters, and they can even receive certifications that can give them a head start on a possible career. For more information, please contact Chief Meyers at (919) 499-5811.
Help with Smoke Detectors: CTVFD provides battery operated smoke detectors for homes that do not have them, as well as assisting in changing the batteries in smoke detectors if needed.
Reminder: CTVFD never leaves a fire hydrant open or unattended. If you see open hydrants in your neighborhood, please contact CWS.

Community Calendar – Open to All CT Residents

March 8, 9 & 10: “Ham Cram” Get a Technician (entry level) ham radio license. Contact Penny Turner for additional information at [email protected]
March 19 at 6 PM at the Carolina Trace Fire Department: You Are the Help Until Help Arrives – this program was developed by FEMA and partners to train people in the skills needed to provide lifesaving care before the arrival of professional first responders.
March 31, 10 AM – 3 PM: Easter Brunch at Carolina Trace Country Club. Call 919.499.5121, ext. 1 for details and reservations.
March 31, 2 PM: Community Easter Egg Hunt for kids at Carolina Trace Country Club.
April 16 at 6 PM at the Carolina Trace Fire Department: Baptists on Mission Disaster Response – learn about the vast disaster relief capabilities of the Baptists on Mission after a disaster and during recovery.
April 19, 20, 26 & 27 at the Emergency Services Training Center: CERT Basic Course – a 21-hour course over 2 weekends (Friday night & Saturday) to teach people the basics of disaster preparedness and response. CERT is about neighbors helping neighbors and doing the most good for the most people in disaster situations.

Ad Hoc Committees Need You! – CTA is looking for individuals to help with the following committees:

CTA Bylaws Committee (Joe Zanga, Chair): CTA is in the process of clarifying and updating its bylaws. Is there an attorney within CT that could volunteer a few hours to help review bylaw language?
Community Communications Improvement (Jeff Wennberg, Chair): Tired of slow to non-existent internet service? Join this ad hoc to research options available or potentially available to CT.
Memorial Day Observation (May 27) – Volunteers Needed! - We are asking the community to restore the Carolina Trace tradition of honoring those who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to our nation. We have copies of materials and programs used in the past to aid volunteers. This is a short (approximately 30 minute) program hosted at CTCC’s flag circle early on the morning of Memorial Day. Those interested in helping can email [email protected] for more information.
Volunteers Welcomed! CTA and POA volunteers are all residents of Carolina Trace, who pay the same assessments in addition to saving property owner funds by volunteering. There are plenty of opportunities for one-time or ongoing service to your community, either through your POA or the CTA.

Housekeeping

February 6, 2024 CTA Board Meeting Minutes have been uploaded to the website:
https://www.carolinatrace.org/file/document/3210774961/PHeLMoaVDZ7llPyq.pdf

Message Center Slides – available on the CTA website at www.carolinatrace.org

Thanks for reading to the end!

Community Hotline: Call 919.499.2722 OR the Gatehouse line, option 2. The hotline will provide the status of roads, gates, and utilities.

Lake Trace Dam Opening 2/20/23
Eric Graveen, Golf Course Superintendent has sent out the following message to all Carolina Trace POA's.
"We are scheduled to open the dam to Lake Trace today. This action is necessary for significant lowering to facilitate tree removal from the dam, bridge work on Traceway, and dock repairs. The duration of the lake's lowered water level is currently uncertain, but ideally, all tasks can be finalized within a week once the water recedes. Boat owners are advised to monitor their lines and make adjustments accordingly."

CTA News Update: 2/15/23

Gatehouse Staff Courtesies: The gates are now working (North entry gate will be delivered this week) and the Gatehouse Staff are following the rules your representatives on the Board have approved. Be polite to the staff and if you have a concern, please bring that to the attention of your POA's CTA Representative or President. Profanity and anger directed at the staff is unlikely to produce the desired results and your Board will not tolerate such behavior. Joe Zanga, CTA Vice President. Chair of the Safety & Security Committee

Lake Lowering: Since it is now mid-February, CTA writes to advise we still do not have exact dates for the lake lowering. The following statement was issued by CTCC Golf Course Superintendent Eric Graveen: "...Tree removal on the dam will begin soon. Access roads are currently being prepared to get the equipment needed to the back side of the dam. We are planning to lower the lake soon so that our contractors can remove trees on the bank as well as the CTA continuing their work from last year. Once we have a date set, I will make sure to communicate that with you as well."

CTA News! February 7, 2024

The CTA Board of Directors met on Tues., February 6. Included in this news brief are actions and information shared at that meeting.

Finance

Financial Records - CTA is pulling together financial documents to prepare for the audit of 2023 records, which will occur later in this season.
Insurance Renewal Info - CTA is also working with the POAs in reviewing insurance coverages as the policies will renew next month. POA leaders who are interested in attending a February 8, 11 a.m. Zoom call with the insurance broker should reach out to Randi Constant, CTA treasurer, to get the link for the call: [email protected]

Security & Safety Committee (S&S)

Automated Gate Pass System Needs Project Manager - Anyone with logistics and project management experience who would be willing to work with S&S volunteer Jody Jackett on implementation of the new gate pass system should reach out to S&S Chair Joe Zanga at [email protected]
Gate Repairs That Took Forever...We Counted! POAs are reminded that there are just two qualified contractors who work on automated gates in the area encompassing Raleigh to Fayetteville. As a result, we are unable to get quick results and we appreciate the continued patience of POA residents instead of negative comments posted for the entire county to read on Nextdoor. Repairs were made to the visitor gate and north exit gates and they are back in operation. The damaged north entry swing gate will be replaced with the responsible driver’s insurance paying for the gate and the labor to install it.
Gatehouse Updates - S&S continues to work with SPA administration with regard to staffing and CT procedures. Torn flags have been replaced and CTA now has an extra of each flag on hand to avoid flying torn flags in the future. When flags are lowered to half-mast, the reason for doing so will appear on the message centers and on the CTA website.

Traceway Roads & Maintenance (TRAM)

Bridgework to Continue this Spring - In conjunction with the lowering of Lake Trace, CTA will finish the work on the bridges (off of the main entrance) that was begun last spring. TRAM will advise if traffic will be impacted via the message centers and also via an email communication to POAs.
Traceway North Tree Replacements Have Begun - The first five trees have been planted on North Traceway. Updates on the other plantings will be forthcoming.
How Can You Help TRAM? CTA is looking for POA residents with certain skill sets to help TRAM as consultants for proposal review, planning and maintenance. Please ask your community members to consider volunteering if they have civil engineering experience, experience in road construction, drainage, culverts, etc. TRAM would like support in vetting contractors and their proposals.

Trace Lake & Dam Committee (TLDC)

TLDC Committee Welcomes New Chair - Bill Huggins, resident of Hidden Lake POA, has agreed to chair the TLDC committee. Community questions or concerns about Lake Trace should be directed to him at this email: [email protected]. Bill is CTA’s liaison with the country club regarding matters of Lake Trace and the dam.
Lake Lowering is Coming…Soon! TLDC reports news of the timeframe for the lowering of Lake Trace is “mid-February to mid or late March.” As soon as specific dates are known, the POAs will be updated.
Results Soon - Bathymetric Study of Lake Trace Taken Last Fall Are In - TLDC will share results in March. Watch this space!

Community Calendar –

CERT Events Open to CT residents:
- February 20 at 6 PM at the Carolina Trace Fire Department: Stop the Bleed – this is a program developed by the American College of Surgeons to teach people how to stop bleeding in a severely injured person.
- March 19 at 6 PM at the Carolina Trace Fire Department: You Are the Help Until Help Arrives – this program was developed by FEMA and partners to train people in the skills needed to provide lifesaving care before the arrival of professional first responders.
- April 16 at 6 PM at the Carolina Trace Fire Department: Baptists on Mission Disaster Response – learn about the vast disaster relief capabilities of the Baptists on Mission after a disaster and during recovery.
- April 19, 20, 26 & 27 at the Emergency Services Training Center: CERT Basic Course – a 21-hour course over 2 weekends (Friday night & Saturday) to teach people the basics of disaster preparedness and response, CERT is about neighbors helping neighbors and doing the most good for the most people in disaster situations.
- CERT will also sponsor a Ham Cram to help people get a Technician (entry level) ham radio license, most likely in March; details to follow

Thanks to the Carolina Trace Volunteer Fire Department – The Board thanked Chief Meyers and his volunteers who helped clear fallen trees and branches from CT roads following last month’s heavy rains.

Ad Hoc Committees Need You! – CTA is looking for individuals to help with the following committees:

CTA Bylaws Committee (Joe Zanga, Chair): CTA is in the process of clarifying and updating its bylaws. Is there an attorney within CT that could volunteer a few hours to help review bylaw language?
Community Communications Improvement (Jeff Wennberg, Chair): Tired of slow to non-existent internet service? Join this ad hoc to research options available or potentially available to CT.

As a reminder, CTA and POA volunteers are all residents of Carolina Trace, who pay the same assessments in addition to saving property owner funds by volunteering. There are plenty of opportunities for one-time or ongoing service to your community, either through your POA or the CTA.

Housekeeping

January 2, 2024 CTA Board Minutes have been uploaded to the website:

https://www.carolinatrace.org/file/document/3210774961/njl18UaSlvGQlNhV.pdf

Message Center Slides – available on the CTA website at www.carolinatrace.org

Thanks for reading to the end and remember:

Community Hotline: Call 919.499.2722 OR the Gatehouse line, option 2. The hotline will provide the status of roads, gates, and utilities.
Questions or Concerns? Your POA's CTA Director can help, and is in the best position to point you in the direction of the correct volunteer if they can’t. Remember that CTA exists to keep the infrastructure common to all POAs in good working order. Each POA is responsible for its own infrastructure, amenities, regulations, and lot assessments.

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CTA News! January 5, 2024

Happy New Year! The CTA Board of Directors met on Tues., January 2. This news brief reflects actions and information shared at that meeting.

Financial Review: CTA is preparing for the 2023 taxes and the annual audit. CTA reserves were moved to a brokerage account to ensure funds over $250k are insured. Reserves have been invested in US Treasuries for higher yield, better liquidity in event of emergency and greater tax efficiency.

Security & Safety Committee (S&S)

Automated Gate Pass System is Coming in 2024! The Board approved S&S’s recommendation to automate visitor passes. This means residents will have access to an online portal and smartphone app to request passes for visitors and contractors. Of course, those preferring to call the gatehouse may continue to do so. There’ll be a learning curve as S&S works to get this in place; watch for updates!
Nobody Likes to Work During the Holidays…Apparently this applied to gates as well. Two of our gates (visitor gate at the main entrance, the exit gate at north access) suffered catastrophic motor failures last month. Both motors are under warranty and repairs are pending the arrival of the new motors. Your patience is appreciated until the gates are repaired.
Swing Arm Gate Coming to North Exit. The Board approved a barrier arm to the exit at north access, creating a system of redundancy in the event of one of the gate motors going out or if a gate is damaged. Residents utilizing the barrier gate addition to the north entry are pleased with its quicker operation than the swing gate; it is anticipated that those exiting will also appreciate a gate that opens more quickly during the busier times. CTA is asking for your opinion about how security should be balanced against access when a gate is inoperable for any reason. The one-question survey can be found here: https://forms.gle/REU6AipZZCrNvh6p7 Please register your opinion on this issue as soon as possible.
Gatehouse Camera Updates. The Board approved addition of cameras at the gatehouse, including a license plate reader that will be helpful in identifying those who damage the gates and for the LCSO, who have queried Trace security for details of vehicles entering CT.
Electrical Issues at the Gatehouse. S&S consulted with Duke Energy, CTA’s IT contractor and an electrician to investigate and correct spurious voltage in the vicinity of the gatehouse. Duke Energy made a temporary repair but further underground work will be needed in the vicinity of the Eagles Nest sign. The recent voltage spike took out Spectrum internet service (and phone service) at the gatehouse. S&S was able to forward the main gatehouse telephone line to a cell phone and to use that phone as a hotspot to maintain limited internet and email access at the gatehouse. The pending automated gate pass system should lessen the inconvenience of such outages because passes will be generated directly to the visiting party by residents.

New Chair in 2024. S&S has a new chair in 2024, please reach out to Joe Zanga, email is the same: [email protected]

Reminder – We Need Volunteers for this Sub-Committee:

You’ll note that the work of the gate pass sub-committee is largely done! POAs are asked to inform residents of important, but temporary volunteer opportunities. Interested parties should contact the Vice President (see contact info, above):

South Gate Study Sub-Committee - Duties include review and replacement of equipment, review of proposed growth (undeveloped lots) and current traffic counts, DOT input on gate location and liaising with TRAM committee. This sub-committee will have data to review from decisions made at the North Gate and the goal is to invest in due diligence before spending large amounts of money making upgrades.

Traceway Roads & Maintenance (TRAM)

Bradford/Callery Pear Ad Hoc Update – Replacement trees (five-gallon root ball, approximately six feet in height) will be planted as weather permits in January-February and will be of the following varieties: Chionanthus virginicus (white fringe tree); Cercis canadensis (eastern red bud); Tulip Magnolia; and Amelanchier arborea (service berry).

TRAM Committee to Welcome New Chair. Shawn Draper, resident of North Shore POA, has agreed to chair the TRAM committee. CTA is looking for POA residents with certain skill sets to help TRAM as consultants for proposal review, planning and maintenance. Please ask your community members to consider volunteering if they have civil engineering experience, experience in road construction, drainage, culverts, etc. TRAM would like support in vetting contractors and their proposals.

Trace Lake & Dam Committee (TLDC)

Updates to any lake or dam issues are the purview of the Country Club (Escalante Golf), which owns both. Escalante provides updates to the TLDC as a courtesy, and are reported to residents as received.

The dates for the lowering of Lake Trace have not been announced by CTCC as of this date. As soon as those dates are known, the POAs will be notified.

Holiday Decorations: What Goes Up, Must Come Down – The holiday decorations at the main gate and bridges will be taken down on January 14 at 1 p.m. Volunteers are always welcome!

POA Election Results to CTA Are Requested – Many POAs have elections in the last quarter of each year; a form was sent to all POA secretaries to return to CTA as soon as possible so records can be updated with accurate POA leadership.

Ad Hoc Committees Need You! – CTA is looking for individuals to help with the following committees:

CTA By-laws Review (Joe Zanga, Chair): Join for a deep dive into the bylaws to confirm they are clear, consistent, and appropriate as our community has evolved. Volunteers should have some familiarity with by-laws for non-profit organizations.
Community Communications Improvement (Jeff Wennberg, Chair): Tired of slow to non-existent internet service? Join this ad hoc to research options available or potentially available to CT.
Long Range Planning Committee (Ernie Violon, Chair): Help plan for the future of CT. Review and discuss the 2015 Capital Reserves Study, get bids for an updated study and craft a strategic plan for the Board’s consideration.

As a reminder, CTA and POA volunteers are your neighbors who pay the same assessments in addition to saving property owner funds by volunteering. There are plenty of opportunities for one-time or ongoing service to your community, either through your POA or the CTA. Make giving back to Carolina Trace a new year’s resolution!

CTA Board Minutes have been uploaded to the website:

https://www.carolinatrace.org/file/document/3210774961/wHu5nvs0kIZLdQ2J.pdf