As a homeowner here, it’s important to understand that our community functions as a municipality with taxing authority. What may be commonly referred to as “HOA dues” are actually municipal taxes (seperate but similar to Propery taxes, albeit – considerably less). These taxes contribute to the upkeep and enhancement of our beautiful neighborhood. These taxes are mandatory and play a vital role in maintaining our shared resources and facilities.
Annual Tax Information
Our community taxes are typically due in July each year (check your mailer to confirm exact dates). These funds are essential for maintaining and improving the following amenities:
- Our beautiful 28-Acre Lake: Ensuring the health and beauty of our lake for all to enjoy.
- Community House: Providing a space for gatherings, events, and community activities.
- Beaches and Boat Launch: Keeping our beaches clean, safe, and accessible for residents.
- And More: Including landscaping, and general maintenance of common areas.
How FMLPOA Annual Dues Are Determined
Each year, the Association develops an operating budget based on the anticipated costs required to maintain and manage the community. This includes items such as lake management, property maintenance, insurance, utilities, administrative expenses, and other necessary services. The total approved budget is then divided evenly among the number of homes within the Association to determine the annual dues amount per property. When annual dues increase, it is not arbitrary — it reflects either rising costs for existing services or new expenses required to properly maintain and protect the community. All dues collected are used to fund the approved annual budget.
Tax Amount and Payment Instructions
To ensure your payment is properly processed, please follow the instructions below:
- Check Payment: Make your check payable to “Fall Mountain Lake Property Owners Association.”
- Mailing Address: Send your payment to:
Fall Mountain Lake Property Owners Association
56 W Lakeview Rd.
Plymouth, CT 06782- Include Property Information: If the tax bill is not included in your mailing, be sure to clearly label the address that the payment is for. This helps to ensure that your payment is accurately credited to your property.
What Happens If I Don’t Pay?
It is important to understand the consequences of not paying your FMLPLOA taxes at Fall Mountain Lake. Since these dues are mandatory, failing to pay them can result in several serious penalties.
Penalties for Non-Payment
- Interest and Late Fees: If you do not pay your taxes on time, interest and late fees may be added to the amount you owe. This means the longer you wait to pay, the more you will owe.
- Lien on Your Home: If your taxes remain unpaid, the Fall Mountain Lake Property Owners Association (FMLPOA) will place a lien on your home.
- Foreclosure (Last Resort):
As a municipality with taxing authority, the Association has the legal ability to pursue foreclosure in cases of long-term non-payment. Foreclosure is considered a last resort and is not an outcome anyone wants. Homeowners are strongly encouraged to communicate with the FMLPOA if they are experiencing difficulty paying your balance due so that issues can be addressed before reaching this stage.
What is a Lien?
A lien is a legal claim against your property for unpaid debts. Here’s why having a lien on your home is a problem:
- Difficult to Sell or Refinance: A lien makes it hard to sell or refinance your home. Potential buyers or banks will see the lien and may be unwilling to move forward until it is resolved.
- Additional Costs: Resolving a lien usually means paying off the owed amount plus any added interest, fees, and legal costs. This can become quite expensive.
- Credit Impact: Having a lien on your property can negatively impact your credit score, making it harder to get loans or credit in the future.
Why Paying is Important
Paying your FMLPOA taxes on time ensures you avoid these penalties and supports the maintenance and improvement of our community. The funds collected help keep our lake, beaches, community house, and other amenities in great condition for everyone to enjoy.
I’m behind, what should I do?
You are at risk of compounding fees, interest, and a lien placed on your home. Please reach out to our Tax Collector as soon as possible to discuss options.
Important Notes
- Mandatory Payment: Remember, these taxes are not optional. They are required contributions that support the infrastructure and amenities of our community.
- Good to know: Because these dues function as municipal taxes, they are generally treated similarly to property taxes and may be tax deductible on your personal income taxes. Homeowners should consult their tax advisor or accountant to confirm eligibility based on their individual situation.
Your neighbors thank you for prompt payment and for contributing to the upkeep of our wonderful Fall Mountain Lake community. If you have any questions or need further information about your tax payment, please contact the FMLPOA Tax Collector directly.
FMLPOA Tax Collector
Michelle Caffrey