Views - Why do we care?
|
Over the last 30 years, our trees and bushes have sprouted and grown, often taller than originally anticipated. While enhancing the beauty of our neighborhood in most cases, in some cases the original views of the lake, mountain(s) or Pittock-Leadbetter House have been blocked. Within the last 5 years, many homeowners have claimed that such view deterioration has inhibited both the enjoyment and property values of their homes.
A 2014 report from Clark County Tax Assessor Peter Van Nortwick isolates the effect of view loss from other outside factors such as economy, neighboring markets, or individual property condition. It is the best empirical and unbiased data we have found able to do so. The table shows the 2012 classification, the 2014 classification, and the resulting dollars lost in tax assessed value from the view downgrade, with owners and addresses added for your convenience. The report shows a total $3,525,000 devaluation of assessed value in Lacamas Shores due exclusively to downgrades of view classifications for 95 Lacamas Shores homes over one assessment period – no other reason. |
The stated purpose of our HOA is "to preserve, protect and improve the quality and character" of the Lacamas Shores development. While the practical question of what efforts are reasonable to expend in that quest is currently under discussion, one would imagine that minimally it should include a duty to not hinder the property value restoration of others.
The ideal goal is to seek a collaborative, cost effective, and efficient solution for all parties to improve the quality and character of both our homes and our entire neighborhood.
The ideal goal is to seek a collaborative, cost effective, and efficient solution for all parties to improve the quality and character of both our homes and our entire neighborhood.
