Duty of care - n.  Obligation that a sensible person would use in the circumstances when acting towards others and the public. If the actions of a person are not made with watchfulness, attention, caution, and prudence, their actions are considered negligent. The duty of care may be imposed by operation of law between individuals with no current direct relationship (familial or contractual or otherwise), but eventually become related in some manner, as defined by common law (meaning case law).

RiverPark on the Brazos is new to the C.I.A. Services family and this board has quickly taught us what the hard work of a dedicated group of individuals can accomplish when joined together as one unit.

RiverPark gained homeowner control in 2004. Due to a majority quorum requirement, the association consistently failed to hold an official election. Finally, in 2010, through the concerted efforts of about 10 residents relentlessly pounding the pavement and knocking on doors, the association was able to hold its first election. This newly elected board then forged on to successfully obtain 67% of the members support and reduced the quorum requirement to 20% at the first meeting, with a laddering reduction in quorum for each rescheduled meeting thereafter. Participation has grown from 25 to 300 in meeting and event attendance due to the evident commitment of the board and newfound pride the residents have in their community.

On a mission to raise the quality of life for their new bundle of responsibility without raising the dues, the board established strong relationships with local government entities encouraging joint participation to achieve a common goal. Through communication and education, 85% of the community approved an $11million bond proposal with the F.B. Levee Improvement District #10 and can now afford to replace the perimeter brick wall that is crumbling. This project alone will save the members a substantial expense; however, the board was not satiated. Further success was achieved in transferring various landscape and irrigation maintenance to the LID with projected savings of over $100,000 annually in addition to the future maintenance of the wall. The board competitively negotiated all service contracts reducing expenses 10% overall and obtained sales tax exemption anticipating a $40,000 tax refund with projected savings of $60,000 annually moving ahead. Proving persistence is the key, when lightening struck the clubhouse roof the board refused to accept an underestimated insurance claim of $14,000. The board demanded fairness, ultimately receiving $150,000.

With collection efforts at a low 87%, the board strives to increase that to 94% in 2012 with an aggressive collection policy. Not to be defeated, the board was still able to reduce the annual assessment for 2012 when most communities were forced to rise. The board continues to work closely with the LID and City of Sugar Land to bring a quality to the community that all families can cherish. 2012 promises to bring a bright future to the residents of RiverPark on the Brazos as it is easy to say that this board has gone above and beyond the call of duty to care for their 1,177 family members.

From our family to yours, Congratulations, RiverPark on the Brazos for becoming our newest Community of the Month!