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General Association Info Communications from SPRAI Compliance -- Buying/Selling Your Property (COC); Modifications Deed Restrictions Maintenance Assessments Recreation & Pools Camp Sienna General
Association FAQ’s
What is SPRAI?
SPRAI is the acronym for Sienna Plantation Residential Association, Inc. SPRAI is a non-profit corporation registered with the State of Texas and managed by a duly-elected Board of Directors. Its purpose is to maintain all common areas and to govern the community in accordance with the provision of legal documents such as Covenants, Conditions & Restrictions, Bylaws, and Articles of Incorporation.
What Villages/Neighborhoods are Part of SPRAI?
SPRAI is comprised of more than 6 villages – Anderson Springs, Bees Creek, Steep Bank West, Steep Bank East, Shipman’s Landing, and Waters Lake. These villages encompass more than 4000 homes. For a complete listing of all SPRAI neighborhoods, click here. The apartments of The Gateway at Sienna are not a part of the SPRAI.
What are the “Covenants, Conditions and Restrictions” (CCR’s) also known as “Deed Restrictions”?
The Covenants, Conditions & Restrictions (CC&Rs) are the governing legal documents that set up the guidelines for the operation of the planned community as a non-profit corporation. The CC&Rs were recorded by the County recorder’s office in which the property is located and are included in the title to your property. Click here to review the SPRAI CC&R's/Declarations.
What are the Bylaws?
Bylaws are guidelines for the operation of a non-profit corporation. The Bylaws define the duties of the various offices of the Board of Directors, the terms of the Directors, the membership’s voting rights, required meetings and notices of meetings, and the principal office of the Association, as well as other specific items that are necessary to run the Association as a business. Click here to review the SPRAI Bylaws.
Who are the Board of Directors?
As a non-profit corporation, SPRAI is governed by a Board of Directors that oversees its business operations. Because Sienna is still growing, current Board of Director members are appointed by the Developer The Board of Directors is outlined in the Association’s governing documents. Click here for a current list of Board of Directors.
The Board is responsible for directing SPRAI operations and planning for the future of both SPRAI and its membership to ensure that its objective, as stated in the Declaration and By-Laws, is met. The Board currently consists of three members appointed by the Developer (this is common in relatively new master planned communities).
The Board meets regularly on the fourth Wednesday of the month and meetings are open to the membership and include resident input time.
Are There Other Associations Within Sienna?
Sienna’s commercial and multi-family properties are managed by the Sienna Plantation Property Owners Association (SPPOA). This Association is set up in much the same way as SPRAI and includes CCRs/Deed Restrictions, a Board of Directors and a Management Staff. SPPOA members pay a separate assessment from SPRAI members.
Unique to Sienna is the Sienna Plantation Community Services Foundation (SPCSF). This Foundation is funded by new and resale home sales. At the close of each home sale, an assessment equal to ½ of one percent is paid to the Foundation. The Foundation reinvests these funds directly into the community through a series of grants that have included monies for community schools, parks and Camp Sienna, special events throughout Sienna including our July 4th Fireworks Spectacular, concerts, fitness center requests, and funds for seriously ill Sienna children through the Catastrophic Children’s Fund. For more information on the Foundation, or for a grant application, click here.
How is SPRAI Managed?
SPRAI maintains a management staff under the leadership of a General Manager who is appointed by the Board of Directors. The staff is responsible for the day-to-day operations of the Association and works closely with the Board of Directors, Village Representatives, Committees and/or Task Forces. Click here for a current list of Association staff.
Who is my Village Representative?
Within each SPRAI village, residents elect Village Representatives (Reps) to serve a two-year term. The number of Reps per Village is determined by the size of the given Village. In some cases, a Village may be represented by a Rep in the next closest Village. Village Reps are one of the most vital links in the communication chain between members and the Association. Click here for Village Rep contact information.
Where Can I Find General Community Rules?
Most of Sienna’s Rules, Guidelines and Deed Restrictions are located in the Compliance section of Siennanet. Click here for Compliance.
Communications – FAQ’s
Is there a monthly newsletter?
Yes, SPRAI produces a monthly newsletter that is delivered to all homeowners. The newsletter is an excellent source of information and features articles on the Association, community updates, special events, recreational and fitness classes and special features. If you have not received a newsletter within 45 days of moving into Sienna, please contact Cyndi Hernandez, Community Relations Coordinator at 281/778-3725 or via email at .
Siennanet Website – What Does It Offer?
The Siennanet website is your community intranet and is the single most comprehensive source/tool for residents. Siennanet is home to electronic versions of all SPRAI Deed Restrictions, policies and applications. In addition, residents will find SPRAI budget & financial information, Committee updates, annual meeting presentations, timely information on fitness and recreation classes, community athletics, Developer activities and important community links. Residents may also post and search the MarketPlace, our community classified section.
Bi-weekly electronic newsletters are delivered to residents who have logged onto and requested information via Siennanet. These newsletters are brief and feature time-sensitive information and updates related to the Sienna community. At times, SPRAI may release a special E-News Blast featuring one or two important news items that require resident action/involvement.
SPRAI also uses Siennanet to communicate with our volunteer Committee Members and Village Representatives.
How Do I Access Siennanet?
Siennanet is accessible to all individuals at www.siennanet.com. Some sections of Siennanet are accessible by registered residents only. All residents have the ability to access Siennanet; first time users or new residents must log onto the website at www.siennanet.com and set up their account as a “New Resident.” Sign in names and passwords are created by the resident. Once a resident has set up an account, individual profiles can be managed by clicking the “My Profile” button. If a resident wishes to receive SPRAI’s bi-weekly electronic newsletter or other electronic information updates, they must specify an active email account under their individual profile.
What is the LED?
The LED marquee is located at Sienna Parkway and Steep Bank Trace and features date sensitive information community or SPRAI events, activities, and projects. It may feature emergency update information as necessary. A maximum of 7 items at any given time may be featured.
Compliance Department – FAQ’s
What is the Compliance Department?
SPRAI's Compliance Staff is responsible for assisting homeowners in understanding deed restrictions, their purpose and their enforcement in an effort to maintain property values in Sienna neighborhoods. These restrictions exist for one reason - to assure our residents a high quality of life in a neighborhood that is consistent in appearance and quality, while allowing as much as possible, individual expression. Click here for a Compliance overview.
What is A Certificate of Compliance (COC)
In order to improve deed restriction compliance, the Certificate of Compliance (COC) program was developed which requires that all new and existing property sales must be preceded by an on-site inspection to check for deed restriction violations or non-compliance with the approved construction plans. This inspection is done the SPRAI Compliance Department, at which time a Certificate of Compliance (COC) or Non-Compliance (CONC) will be issued to the seller of the property. In some instances, a COC with provisions will be issued.
Do I Need to Get Approval for Modifications to My House or Property?
In order to ensure that exterior improvements to properties are in harmony with the neighborhood and do not detract from property values, all exterior modifications must meet SPRAI guidelines and/or be approved in advance by the Modifications Sub-Committee. The Board of Directors has adopted written guidelines for modifications to assist the property owner in planning a project.
SPRAI has developed the document, “Standards to Live By” which outlines guidelines for common modifications. To quickly locate a guideline, use the website’s search feature or use the Guide’s Table of Contents for links.
If you are considering a modification or have any questions related to modifications, please contact SPRAI at 281/778-0778 or e-mail prior to beginning plans or work.
Do I Need Any Other Certificates Prior to Selling My Home?
SPRAI does not require any other certificates prior to the sale of your home. However, SPRAI, upon request, does provide the buyer of any house/property in Sienna a Resale Certificate that includes information on your neighborhood Association. For information on a Resale Certificate, click here.
Who do I call if there is a loose animal in the neighborhood?
Fort Bend County Animal Control can be reached at 281-342-1512.
Maintenance – FAQ’s
Who Maintains Sidewalks, Roadways and Tunnels?
A homeowner is responsible for the sidewalk in front (or to the side) of his/her house. SPRAI is responsible for common area sidewalks on reserves, greenbelts and bridges. SPPOA is also responsible for the tunnels that cross under Sienna Parkway at Steep Bank Trace and Scanlan Trace at Sienna Parkway south of Club Sienna.
The majority of the streets within Sienna Plantation are the responsibility of Fort Bend County Road and Bridges. If you have a damaged street, contact the Fort Bend County Road and Bridges department at 281/342-4513 or R&Brequests@co.fort-bend.tx.us.
In some cases, if the neighborhood street is under one year old, Sienna/Johnson Development is responsible for the maintenance. If in doubt, contact the SPRAI Maintenance
Who Maintains Fences in Sienna?
A large majority of the fencing and walls located along the main thoroughfares in Sienna are the responsibility of SPRAI. Those fences surrounding the pool areas of Steep Bank West, Brushy Lake and the Water Park are also the responsibility of SPRAI. Homeowners are responsible for fencing surrounding their property. These fences must be consistently maintained. Please contact SPRAI at 281/778-0778 with specific fencing questions. The approved stain color for fencing within Sienna is “Sienna Plantation Fence” at ICI paints in Sugarland.
Who do I call if a Street Light is Out?
The decorative street light fixtures located along the parkway and in some neighborhoods are the responsibility of SPRAI. If a decorative light is out, please direct the issue to the Maintenance Department at 281/778-0778. The majority of the street lights are maintained by CenterPoint; the lights are grey in color and have a six digit number on them. If a neighborhood street light is out, please contact CenterPoint Energy at 713/207-2222 or go to http://centerpointenergy.com/outage/ and reference the six-digit number on the pole.
Who Do I Contact Regarding Damage to Monuments?
Entrance monuments, lighting (non-street light), fountains and landscape are the responsibility of SPRAI. If you notice damage, or a light is out, please notify the SPRAI Maintenance Manager at 281/778-0778.
Who Maintains the Lakes, Playgrounds & Neighborhood Parks In Sienna?
All lakes, playground area, statues and parks are maintained by SPRAI and its contractors. This includes all landscaping in these areas and other common areas along the parkway and neighborhood esplanades/islands.
Who is Responsible for the Swale (Ditch) in Front of My House?
Homeowners that have a drainage swale in front of their home are responsible for the mowing and upkeep of the swale. If there are drainage issues with the swale, residents should contact Sienna Plantation Municipal Utility District #2 at 281/240-1988. For further information on the neighborhood swales, visit www.SPMUD2.com .
Assessments
How Much is My Annual Assessment?
All residents are required to pay the annual SPRAI Assessment of $795/year. In addition, there are some neighborhoods that require a supplemental assessment in addition to the SPRAI Assessment. Click here to see additional assessments.
When Are Assessments Due?
SPRAI assessments are billed annually and are due in advance of the upcoming year. The assessment statement is mailed by early December and is due January 1, 200X. Full payment must be received by January 31, 200X to avoid interest and late charges.
If I Have a Question/issue with my Assessment, who do I speak to?
Residents may discuss their assessments with either Steve Ginsburg, Finance Manager at 281/778-3741 () or with Judy Kosler, SPRAI Bookkeeper at 281/778-3732 ().
What Does My Assessment Cover?
While your assessment dollars cover much of SPRAI’s operating budget, SPRAI is still deficit-funded by the community’s Developer which means that not all expenses are paid for by our assessments. So, how far do our assessment dollars go?
The majority of your assessments cover “common area” expenses that include landscaping, utilities, pools and buildings, lakes, parts of parks, general facilities, and sheriff patrols, and SPRAI administrative expenses. Assessment dollars also help to cover Recreation expenses that range from SPRAI program development, to community events, and other costs directly related to recreational activities. SPRAI also incurs additional expenses not reflected in these specific figures related to collection of debts, insurance and taxes, professional services, and member communication.
On a personal level, residents who are in good standing (assessments paid in full) have access to the community pools, facilities and recreational classes.
Recreation & Pools
What Programs are Offered by SPRAI?
SPRAI offers a variety of programs ranging from fitness to leisure courses to day trips. A sampling of programs include: tennis, indoor cycling, yoga, Jazzercise, fitness training, volleyball, pre-school educational programs, dance, drama, foreign language, music, art, All SPRAI programs are open to Sienna residents for nominal fees.
What Special Events Does SPRAI Offer?
Through the collaborative effort of the Special Events Committee and SPRAI, Sienna residents are fortunate to have a number of special events right in their own “backyard.” A sampling of these events include: the spring and fall concert series, annual Spring Fling featuring an egg hunt and children’s concert, movies at the Amphitheater and Water Park, 4th of July Celebration and Fireworks Spectacular, annual Gingerbread Market, and the annual Snow Blast. The best way for residents to stay informed on upcoming events is through the monthly residential newsletter, Siennanet, Sienna E-News releases, LEDs. For the Community Calendar or more information on events, click here.
Who can use an SPRAI pools?
The Sienna community pools are for the use of SPRAI members in good standing (generally, Sienna residential property owners and their guests only). Each household is provided 2 regular resident/member IDs (10 years and up) free of charge; children IDs (2-9 years) are free of charge. Any additional regular IDs can be obtained at a fee of $10/each. Each household is also provided one guest pass that allows for up to 5 guests at any one time; 50 guests total per year.
How Do I Get My ID?
Residents can obtain their resident/member ID at Club Sienna (9600 Scanlan Trace). Click here for information on how to obtain your resident ID.
Where are the Pools in Sienna?
There are currently 3 pools within Sienna:
- Club Sienna Water Park – 9600 Scanlan Trace
- Brushy Lake Pool – 10516 Shipman’s Landing
- Steep Bank Pool – 3777 Sienna Parkway
Click here for additional information on the community pools.
What are the Pool Hours?
Sienna community pools open for weekend use in May and weekday use beginning in June; regular pool season ends in September, with weekend use of Brushy Lake and Club Sienna Water Park throughout September. Specific pool hours are determined on a yearly basis; however, most pools open at 10 a.m. and close at 8 p.m. or so in the evening. Click here for specific pool locations and hours.
Can I Reserve the Pool(s)?
Yes, Sienna residents may reserve the pool and/or parts of the pool areas for parties through Greater Houston Pool Management. To do, visit www.siennapools.com or call 713/771-7665.
What is Brushy Lake Fitness Center (and Who Gets to Use It)?
The Brushy Lake Recreation Area features a 6,000-square-foot fitness center with state-of-the-art weight room and two exercise classrooms and Sienna Jungle babysitting room. The area's new pool offers lap swimming and recreational swimming, with a diving well, children's play area with zero-beach entry. Brushy Lake Fitness Center is for the use of Sienna residents (guests may accompany residents). Click here information on Brushy Lake Fitness Center.
Can I Reserve Brushy Lake Fitness/Pavilion?
The outdoor pavilion at Brushy Lake Fitness is available for rental by Sienna residents for a fee. To rent the pavilion residents should call Club Sienna at 281/778-CLUB. Brushy Lake Fitness Center is not available for rental.
How Do I Rent Club Sienna’s Rooms?
Sienna residents may reserve any or all of the meeting rooms at Club Sienna (dependent on space availability) by calling Club Sienna at 281/778-CLUB. Each meeting room has specific capacity figures and rental fees. Click here for rental rates and a rental application.
Can I Rent the Amphitheater and/or Train Depot?
Residents can rent the amphitheater on a space available basis for a rental fee. The train depot can be reserved without charge. Residents should contact Club Sienna for rental availability.
What is Camp Sienna?
Camp Sienna is Sienna’s premiere sports park that serves as home for a number of athletic pursuits along the Brazos River Corridor – including soccer, baseball, softball fields, a concession area, a scenic overlook of the Brazos River, miles of walking trails, a picnic pavilion and a playground. Future plans call for additional trails, a community garden and multi-use fields. View a detailed PDF of Camp Sienna.
Who Gets To Use Camp Sienna?
Camp Sienna’s trails, playground, basketball courts, sand volleyball courts and pavilion (when not reserved) are open for use throughout the year. The soccer, baseball, softball, and multi-use fields are for the use of the sport leagues that hold a primary user agreement with SPRAI. Individuals or groups may rent the fields for use through a secondary user agreement with SPRAI. For more information on the secondary use agreements, contact Lisa Cox at 281/778-3733 (). Residents who wish to rent the outdoor pavilion at Camp Sienna should call Club Sienna at 281/778-CLUB.
How Do I Find Information on Youth Sports at Camp Sienna
There are several independent leagues operating youth sport programs at Camp Sienna: Eclipse Soccer, Sienna Plantation Youth Baseball, and Sienna Girls Softball. For links to these sites, click here.
Who gets to use the tennis courts?
Sienna residents and guests may use the tennis courts free of charge (a tennis court key must be purchased for $5; 2 per household) on a space available basis. Sienna has 8 tennis courts for resident’s use. As part of league play, some non-Sienna residents are allowed to use our courts. Residents may obtain a tennis court key at Club Sienna (resident ID is required). For more information on Sienna’s tennis program, click here.
Can I Fish in the Community Lakes?
Catch and release fishing is allowed throughout Sienna’s lakes. Please note, our area lakes are home to natural wildlife that includes alligators and snakes, so caution should be taken along the lake banks. Motorized boats are not allowed.
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