Community Newsletter: Spring 2024 Edition
Hello and welcome to the Townhomes on Capitol Hill quarterly newsletter! We are excited to share with you the latest news and updates from our community. In this edition we will cover everything from upcoming events to amenities, as well as provide tips for cooperative living. Thank you for joining us and we hope you enjoy reading!
Community Updates
OneLife Fitness: Join Now & Get Fit for Spring!
Signature Club Memberships at Onelife Fitness for Townhomes members ONLY!
With this exclusive membership, you'll have workout choices, programs, and choice locations. Signature Club membership will allow you access to over 50 clubs! This could mean over 2,000 classes per week, dozens of pools, courts, and programs to meet your fitness goals.
Signature Clubs include Bethesda, Capitol Hill (315 G St SE, Washington 20003), Crystal Park, Mclean, and Old Town Alexandria. Whether you choose to work up a sweat before you crush the day or wind down your evening, you’ll find it all at Onelife Fitness. Check it out at: www.onelifefitness.com
Call Member Services at 202-544-1274 ext. 2, for details and how to enroll.
Home Inspections: Per your recertification packet, a Home Inspection must be conducted during your recertification process. The Home Inspection is an opportunity for management and member services to evaluate the physical condition of your home. It includes identifying items requiring repair or replacement and observing housekeeping conditions. While we encourage members to be present during this annual inspection, it is not mandatory. Management will be responsible for repairs of items of normal wear and tear such as; loose doorknobs, worn out carpet, and minor scratches on the walls and floors. Members will be held responsible for items that are not within expected deterioration. Maintenance and Housekeeping Plans will be established as determined by the inspection. Please do not wait for the Home Inspection to report any and all items that require repairs in your home.
Join a Committee
Interior Renovation Committee - Assist in creating a process for the renovation of interior units.
Finance Committee - Review budgets and make recommendations for the management of coop finances.
Community Engagement - Develops strategies to promote community engagement/involvement.
Safety Committee - Provides recommendations to support the safety of our community.
Landscaping Committee - Concerned with the beautification and maintenance of the grounds.
Policy Committee - Gathers and reviews policies and makes recommendations to changes.
A New Season
As we step into a fresh month with longer daylight hours and warmer temperatures, make time to share with friends and family, be more engaging within the community, and get to know your neighbors better.
With a variety of monthly events lined up, it would be great to see more members socializing and fostering stronger bonds. Spread joy & extend support to others whenever you can.
- Rochelle Brown, Office Coordinator
Resident Spotlight
At the Annual Meeting held on January 22nd, the Board of Directors acknowledged Townhomes Members that have resided here for 20 years.
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Members since 1999
James & Juanita Jones
Sallie Dancy
Jewell Simmons
Norma Jean Berry
Theresa Joyner
Shon & Jennifer Seile
Danielle Bowman
Glenn Bennett
Thomas Lee
Derrick King
Laura Smith
Phyllis Jackson
Shawn Wright
Carolyn Wood
Dorothy Wolley
Margaret Allen
Trina Shropshire-Paschal
Troy Paschal
Josephine Bennett
April Foreman
Members since 2000
Bertie Ruffin
Angelo Sands
Vernea Boone
Norman & Nancy Colbert
Marietta Gordon
Members since 2001
Brian Walsh
Jay Norris
Lisa Hunt
Sherlena Moore
Barbara Dapp
Members since 2003
Antoinette Lee
Welcome to Our Community
Welcome to the neighborhood! We’re so pleased to have you join our community. We know how difficult moving can be, let us know how we can help. We are looking forward to getting to know you better and introducing you to everyone. Be sure to check the calendar for meetings and gatherings.
Our Newest Members
Nathan Smith
Brittany Chatman & Daryl Proctor
Nathan & Stephanie Hess
Natalie Glees
Honoring Life & Legacy
Marilyn Melkonian
Pioneer in Community Revitalization
Townhomes on Capitol Hill’s Board of Directors, members and the Corcoran Jennison Management team, honor the life of Marilyn Melkonian, a visionary and the founder of Telesis Corporation who died on Wednesday, February 14, 2024.
Marilyn had a passion for affordable housing and the regeneration of neighborhoods. In 1985 she established Telesis Corporation with its focus on livable, beautiful, and safe neighborhoods. Telesis, with Marilyn in the lead, worked tirelessly on the preservation and construction of communities in the District of Columbia. The neighborhood formed a CDC (Cooperative Development Corporation) and selected Telesis (Marilyn Melkonian) as the developer. The CDC, Telesis and an architectural firm, planned and built the Townhomes on Capitol Hill, one of the most beautiful communities in the nation, assisted by the award of a $25 million HOPE VI capital grant.
Marilyn continued to help make our community successful, serving on the New Community Trust (NCT) and our advisory team until her passing. Her contributions to the Townhomes on Capitol will not be forgotten
Henry Mendoza Townhomes Resident, Capitol Hill Restaurant Owner
We were shocked to hear of the passing of our neighbor and friend. Henry, owner of the La Plaza Mexican & Salvadorian Cuisine died on March 17, 2024, while visiting his native El Salvador. Henry has been a mainstay on Capitol Hill, operating restaurants for nearly a quarter of a century.
Henry has been active in our community for more than 10 years. I recall Henry hosting our youth summer campers at the La Plaza Restaurant during their Mexican Week. He delighted the children with Mexican cuisine and education about the culture. Henry often provided lunch for the staff.
His kind spirit and generosity will be missed. On behalf of the Board of Directors, members and staff at the Townhomes on Capitol Hill we extend condolences to the family and all who loved Henry.
Board of Directors Corner
Make Townhomes Beautiful Again!
Members of the Board and Management met with a representative from our landscaping company, W.H. Boyer and made decisions regarding new plans. Tree trimming, and removal will be scheduled for the Fall to not interrupt the blooming season. The landscapers will continue to perform maintenance to the trees that are less than 12 feet. The landscaping plans will add a mix of perennial plants to our flower rotation. Additionally, we will eliminate the Fall Mums planting to add Spring perennial bulbs.
New Guidance from the Landscapers: Decorative lights on the trees must be removed. Temporary lights are ok during the winter holidays but as the trees grow, the lights will become embedded in the tree limbs/trunk, and it will adversely affect the health of our trees.
Window Project Update: The Interior Renovation Committee meeting will be held on April 3rd, members will review the proposed policy for the interior renovation of member-occupied units before submitting it for member discussion and board approval.
Board of Directors Parliamentarian: At the February 26th Board Meeting the board approved a motion to create the position of Board Parliamentarian. Interested Members should submit a letter of interest and qualifications to TownhomesDCBoard@gmail.com.
Speed Bumps: A member that lives on I Street, has submitted a request to the ANC Commissioner to install speed bumps on I Street. The request is on the agenda for the meeting of the ANC 6B Transportation Committee Meeting on April 3rd at 7pm. The location will be posted at anc6b.org. Townhomes Board of Directors will submit a letter of support and will apply to add 7th Street to the agenda.
Manager’s Notes
HELLO SPRING! You know the familiar saying "April showers brings May flowers", well the April growth puts a greater demand by everyone. Flowerbed care is tedious so we ask everyone to treat the common grounds with care like you would treat your home. The change of season is an ideal checkpoint to make sure that smoke detectors are working, appliances are operating properly, windows are opening and locking, doors are closing, door hinges are intact and more. All of these and more should be checked regularly and if repairs are needed, call the office to put in a maintenance request/ticket so that our maintenance department can make repairs quickly.
You'll be seeing more of me now that the weather has changed, and I am looking forward to seeing more of you.
Safety Lights: Last year, the Safety Committee recommended the installation of dusk to dawn lightbulbs at the front doors and motion lights in the parking lots. Motion lights illuminate when there is movement, while dusk to dawn lights illuminate from dusk until dawn. Both options are LED bulbs, energy efficient and less than $10 each. Our Maintenance Supervisor is recommending a trial run of the lightbulbs before we roll it out to the entire community.
Exterior Lighting: When it comes to your home’s security, exterior lighting can help to guide you into your home at night and help keep burglars away. But they’re most effective when you use them at the right times and combine them with your security system. If you do, you’ll feel safer and more secure—whether at home, work, or on vacation. Call the Management Office if you need assistance with your security system. Or put the request in a maintenance ticket in the Townhomes portal.
Parking: Stay Tuned for New Townhomes Parking Tags to display in your vehicle.
Parking Lot Etiquette
Being a good coop neighbor includes the parking lots.
Your parking job can ruin someone’s day.
Parking too close to back gates and can make it challenging & unsafe for your neighbor.
Honor the reserved and handicap spaces.
Park within the lines to avoid door dings that can ruin your vehicle and your neighbors.
Accidents happen, take responsibility.
REMINDER: The parking lots are not safe for child play. Please keep our children safe!
- Crystal Hollins, Property Manager
Maintenance Notes
YOUR HOME ALARM SYSTEM
Your home alarm security can add an additional layer of protection and peace of mind - but only if you use it. Your alarm system is powered by ADT. If you need help using the system including your fob, please put in a maintenance ticket and your maintenance supervisor, Danny will schedule to visit and show you how to use it so that you can take advantage of all its features.
SAVING WATER = SAVING DOLLARS
To reduce your water bill, take simple steps that can help lower costs.
Please report any running water you see in or around your home, like leaky toilets and faucets, to management. This leads to water loss and can impact your water bill.
A few tips:
Avoid prolonged personal water usage, such as long showers or running the faucet unnecessarily while brushing your teeth.
Use water saving cycles on dishwashers and run full dishwasher loads.
Program the washing machine for only the amount necessary.
Reminder to Conserve Water: Just a friendly reminder to be mindful of your water usage.
- Avoid prolonged personal water usage, such as long showers or running the faucet unnecessarily while brushing your teeth.
- Use water saving cycles on dishwashers and run full dishwasher loads.
- Program the washing machine for only the amount necessary.
- Check your water heater throughout the month to make sure there is no water in the pan at the floor of the heater.
- It is important to water plants during the warm months, but avoid over watering.
Thank you!
Seasonal Tips: Spring Cleaning & Maximizing Energy Efficiency
Spring is a great time to refresh, clean, and enhance energy efficiency in your home. By adopting simple yet effective energy-saving strategies during spring cleaning that can lower your utility bills.
Ensure that air vents are not obstructed so that air is evenly distributed.
A clean oven heats more evenly and quickly, providing better results and lower energy use.
Spring is the ideal time to declutter, deep clean, and implement practices that not only tidy your homes but also reduce energy consumption, contributing positively to your homes’ energy efficiency and saving money.
Recipe Corner: Days Are Brighter & Our Menus Are Lighter
Avocado Crab Boats
5 medium ripe avocados, peeled and halved
1/2 cup mayonnaise
2 tablespoons lemon juice
2 cans (6 ounces each) lump crabmeat, drained
4 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro, divided
2 tablespoons minced chives
1 serrano pepper, seeded and minced
1 tablespoon capers, drained
1/4 teaspoon pepper
1 cup shredded pepper jack cheese
1/2 teaspoon paprika
Lemon wedges
Directions:
1) Preheat broiler. Place 2 of the avocado halves in a large bowl. Mash lightly with a fork. Add mayonnaise and lemon juice; mix until well blended. Stir in crab, 3 tablespoons cilantro, chives, serrano pepper, capers and pepper. Spoon into remaining avocado halves.
2) Transfer to a 15x10x1-in. baking pan. Sprinkle with cheese and paprika. Broil 4-5 in. from heat until cheese is melted, 3-5 minutes. Sprinkle with remaining cilantro; serve with lemon wedges.
Community Events
Upcoming Events
Past Events
Reminisce about the good times we've had together lately! Take a look at some of the fun moments from our Stretch & Tone classes, Popcorn Day in March, and Bingo & Brunch events.
Member’s Section
Explore this page for helpful community information and tools to simplify your life. [Click Here]
Townhomes FIYs
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Refer to the Parking Policy on the website for complete details: www.townhomesdc.com
Permanent Parking Pass for Townhomes Lots
In an effort to manage the parking situation better, eligible Townhomes members will receive a new parking pass by May 1st. The member must be the owner of the vehicle and provide a current driver's license, vehicle registration (must be registered to the members Townhomes address, proof of insurance, make and model, color and tag number to be eligible for a parking pass. Only one pass will be issued to a household. Your parking pass must be displayed either hung on the rearview mirror or on the dashboard.
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Townhomes members can request Visitor Passes that will allow parking for your guest in Townhomes lots. Visitor parking cannot exceed 14 days starting on the date the pass is issued. Members will only be permitted one visitor pass per month. Members must present the visitors make & model, license tag number, color of the vehicle and contact information for the visitor. Your parking pass must be displayed either hung on the rearview mirror or on the dashboard.
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Members with caregivers can request a Parking Pass for the caregiver and must provide the caregivers make & model, license tag number, color of the vehicle and contact information for the caregiver. Your parking pass must be displayed either hung on the rearview mirror or on the dashboard.
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Being a good cooperative neighbor includes the parking lots. Your parking job can ruin someone’s day.
- Parking too close to back gates and can make it challenging & unsafe for your neighbor.
- Park within the lines to avoid door dings that can ruin your vehicle and your neighbors.
- Honor the reserved and handicap spaces.
- Accidents happen, take responsibility.
- The parking lots are not safe for child play. Please keep our children safe!
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The Townhomes on Capitol Hill Pet Policy was revised and approved by the Board of Directors in 2017.
A few reminders:
Each household is allowed two pets (dogs, cats, and fish only). Pit bulls, Rottweilers, Doberman Pinchers, or any other "attack" dogs are not allowed on the property.
* All pets must be registered with the management office.
* Dogs must be on leases at all times while outside on the property.
* Dogs must not be left alone outside.
* The pet owner is responsible for all and any damage the pet causes.
Pets must not disturb the peaceful enjoyment of others or bring physical or emotional harm to others.
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FINANCIAL HEALTH STATEMENT FROM THE FINANCE COMMITTEE
Our cooperative remains financially healthy and have made major strides in improving the overall condition of the community even with the considerable expenses associated with the windows replacement project.
The 2024 budget was established to make sure we continue to manage our community responsibly while providing for our long and short-term needs.
Priorities for this Year:
• Contract a vendor to conduct a Capital Needs Assessment that will inform us of what capital projects need to occur over the next 30 years that might include roofs, windows, parking lot resurfacing and building maintenance.
• Responsibly invest community funds to further grow them to cover our needs as they arise.
• Continue with interior renovations based on the recommendations of the Interior Renovations Committee.
• Begin replacing the sliding glass back doors of units and address the exterior metal stairs that are rusting.
• Maintain a balanced budget for the year.
• Establish new ways to provide members an array of community-building activities and supportive programs and services.
Important Phone Numbers
Townhomes After Hours Emergency: (202) 498-8722
DC Metropolitan Police: 911
DC Emergency Management: (202) 727-6161
DC Fire and Emergency Medical Services: (202) 673-333
DC Department of Health, Main: (202) 442-5955
DC Department of Health, Food Safety: (202) 535-2180
DC Water and Sewer Authority: (202) 787-2000
PEPCO: (202) 833-7500
Washington Gas: (800) 752-7520
Poison Center: (202) 625-3333
American Red Cross: (202) 728-6401