Monthly Matters
What's Mine & What's Association's?
Posted on September 28, 2026 6:00 AM by Admin
Wow, Monthly Matters officially turns four years old next month. With Rosemary, Alice, and the input of many others, most every topic revolving around life in Arbor Grove has just about been covered. For those who haven't lived in this wonderful community very long, we will wrap up the year by recirculating a couple of articles. This month, we take a fresh look at What's Mine & What's Association's? Windows, doors, Use of Amenities.
 
But first, please indulge me for a quick sidebar: The fact that we have waiting lists for folks who want to make Arbor Grove their home is a testament to our neighbors, committees, and board leadership. Special welcome to our two new Board members Jan Krizik-Schmidt and Jerry Kuntz, and to Rosemary Wieliczko for once again taking on the responsibility to serve Arbor Grove. 
 
There are Covenants, By-Laws, Association Rules and Guidelines. These topics are very broad and all-encompassing, yet key to living a good life in Arbor Grove.  And now, on with the article.
 
Generally speaking, everyone is probably pretty darn knowledgeable and comfortable with the fact that Arbor Grove owns the exterior of our homes and the surrounding grounds, including the clubhouse.
 
That said, many do not realize our windows, front doors, garage doors, furnaces, and AC compressors are the unit owner's responsibility to maintain and, if necessary, replace. 
 
Because we all own the exteriors and grounds, how we use these amenities in our common areas comes with responsibilities for proper use. The Use of Amenities policy approved several years ago (and updated since) lays out how we can all share our grounds in a fair, safe, and friendly way.
 
The Use of Amenities is broken down into three main categories:  Clubhouse, Pool, and Pond.
 
First, the clubhouse (about to receive new carpet and furniture):  Our clubhouse is a fantastic amenity. Not only are there Arbor-sponsored events open to all neighbors, but it is also available to rent for your exclusive use for $75. For non-exclusive use, maybe hanging out with a friend and you don't care who pops in and out, the clubhouse is open 24 hours a day (unless rented). If rented, the exercise room will always be available by entering through the side door so as not to disrupt someone's celebration. The clubhouse is never available to rent on the 3rd Friday of each month. This is our monthly Happy Hour.
 
Second is our beautiful pond! Whether or not you enjoy fishing, a stroll around the pond on a lovely day cannot be beaten! The pond sidewalk is the only private sidewalk in our subdivision. Because of this, an Arbor resident must accompany anyone who is walking around or fishing. As most avid fishermen know – our pond is a catch-and-release pond – except that is for the egrets who enjoy their time there. 
 
Third, and last but not least, is our pool. Folks wait with bated breath every spring for the pool's opening date. We are at the mercy of the schedule of the professionals who open the pool every spring. Once open, a team of volunteers, led by John Hart, comes to the pool twice a day to check chemical levels and ensure a clean, safe environment for our residents. Residents are responsible for overseeing their guests (maximum of 4) and cleaning their table and surrounding area before they exit the pool area.
 
Because our pool is governed by the Illinois State Department of Health and is a swim-at-your-own-risk pool, a large section of the Use of Amenities is dedicated to pool rules and resident responsibilities. Everyone is encouraged to read the Use of Amenities every year before swim season! 
 
Many committees and volunteers work together in teams to ensure a happy and healthy lifestyle here in Arbor Grove. Knowing our responsibilities and the homeowner association's responsibilities makes for a great day, starting on Arbor Parkway.
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