Safety Committee Prepares 2009 Programs

The FSR Safety Committee is preparing neighborhood-wide safety and crime prevention initiatives for the HOA Board's consideration. The committee supports the following programs for 2009:

1. Upgrade the entry/exit video system.

2. Embed reflectors or apply reflective paint on median curbs at Finesilver Dr. intersections and on Atwell Pk.

3. Purchase child ID/fingerprint and safety kits for distribution during neighborhood events.

4. Paint house numbers on curbs; local scouts may provide labor as a service project.

The total cost for these initiatives is an estimated $3600.

The committee will also seek approval for a longer term project to improve neighborhood lighting. This includes updating existing streetlights with more efficient bulbs and adding lights at intersections and other vulnerable areas. Options to mitigate light pollution are under consideration.

The committee will continue to monitor and direct Blue Armor Security patrol schedules to optimize coverage and limit expenses.

The board will vote on the initiatives during meetings to be held during October and November.

Blue Armor Increases Traffic Enforcement

Blue Armor Security will increase traffic enforcement in response to residents' complaints of increased stop sign violations on Finesilver Dr. Residents are especially concerned about the number of vehicles observed running the stop signs at Finesilver and Cove Creek and the danger this presents to children and other pedestrians on their way to the park.

The complaints were heard during the annual board meeting, 10 September. Blue Armor was directed to emphasize traffic safety enforcement over the coming weeks. According to HOA covenant, a security officer contracted by FSR may cite drivers for traffic violations. Blue Armor already noted several violations since stepped-up enforcement began.

Violators will be notified by mail from Association Management Services, FSR's property manager. Unsafe drivers are subject to fines on a graduated scale; the first citation serves as a warning with fines incurred should subsequent violations occur. Citations may be appealed to the board.

FSR Prepares for Ike, Gates to Remain Open

As of this post, Hurricane Ike is forecast to impact the San Antonio area Friday night and Saturday with gusty winds, heavy rain, and thunderstorms. Due to the possibility of power failure, the gates will remain open starting noon Friday through the weekend.

The following websites are recommended to prepare for the stormy weekend:

National Weather Service Forecast Office, Austin/San Antonio,
http://www.srh.noaa.gov/ewx/

American Red Cross Hurricane Preparedness, http://www.redcross.org/services/prepare/0,1082,0_253_,00.html

Federal Emergency Management Agency Hurricane Information,
http://www.fema.gov/hazard/hurricane/index.shtm

Weather Underground (commercial weather site),
http://www.wunderground.com/

City of San Antonio Street Closures,
http://www.ci.sat.tx.us/escs/?res=1024&ver=true

Batten down your property and avoid high water crossings.

If you must venture out: "Turn around, don't drown!"