Participation & Dues

What do our annual dues pay for?
Water and electric bills, a lawn care contract including routine mowing, weeding, mulching, and fertilizing of more than five acres and common spaces, irrigation, small community events, our website and CRM, postage and mailings, and board insurance. When reserves are built up dues also fund neighborhood projects like wall restoration, tree trimming, and larger community events. Safety is a priority and when funding is available we have partnered with the city to cover half the cost of installing speed humps and speed feedback signs. Please review the financial statements for a more comprehensive breakdown.

Why aren’t dues mandatory?
The Greens is not a covenant restricted community. We are a voluntary association governed by Oklahoma City Ordinances, meaning every contribution comes from neighbors who choose to invest in our shared spaces. The more households that participate, the more we can do and the better our property values are protected. Past attempts to undertake a project to make dues mandatory were discontinued due to the significant time commitment, expensive attorney fees, and lack of neighborhood consensus.

Can dues be used for new improvements?
Yes! Higher participation allows for more entrance upgrades and wall repairs, new lighting, seasonal color, tree trimming, bigger community events, safety upgrades, water meters and irrigation installation at Memorial entrances, and consideration of other improvements neighbors have requested such as cameras or decorative street lighting.

Why do some neighbors not pay?
Some have expressed they do not receive a daily benefit. Some may not be aware of what dues cover or may not realize they’re voluntary. We work to continually improve communication so everyone knows how their contributions make a visible difference. If you are not signed up to receive our monthly e-newsletter and quarterly financials please reach out or visit our website.

How do neighbors moving into The Greens learn about the association?
This is an area we can improve upon with volunteer participation. In the past we had a Welcome Committee and block captains facilitated the timely delivery of welcome packets. In October a board member delivered letters to those who moved to The Greens within the past six months. The letters included information about the association and restaurant coupon cards to get out and explore local offerings.

Why is the association necessary?
We wish everyone would understand that joining the association is a direct investment in the value of their home. Research shows that properties in neighborhoods with active associations can be valued 4% to 6% higher than comparable homes without one. Based on this research and with an average home sale price of $411,000 in The Greens, not having an active neighborhood association would lower our average home sales to ~$390,000. Annual dues are essential for preventing the kind of common area deterioration that lowers property values neighborhood wide. It may be helpful to think of the dues as an additional home investment or "insurance" to protect home values.  

Neighborhood Appearance & City Maintenance

Who maintains streets, lights, and drainage?
The City of Oklahoma City maintains these areas. The Association focuses on entrances, beautification, community events, and safety. We report city maintenance needs through the OKC Action Center. We are happy to make reports to the Action Center on your behalf if you keep us informed on issues you see.

Can the association handle tall grass or junk violations?
These issues are also managed by the City. Property owners are responsible for keeping lawns mowed and alleys clear. We are happy to help file a report with the OKC Action Center if needed.

Critter Control & Safety

Can we bring back the critter removal service?
Great idea. We are now in contact with several critter removal services to discuss how to make this a financially beneficial offering for both the neighborhood association and the vendor. In the past the numbers did not end up making sense.

What’s being done about safety?
The association has funded several speed humps, a speed feedback sign, and crime watch signs. Links have also been shared for residents to report street light outages directly to OG&E, helping to ensure our streets stay well-lit. Residents are encouraged to take these additional steps:

• Lock up: Always lock your car doors and never leave valuables in sight. Secure your homes by locking all doors and windows, even when you're home.

• Light up: Keep the exterior of your home well-lit, especially entrances and walkways, to deter potential crime.

• Connect and share: Be vigilant and committed to community safety. Join the neighborhood Facebook group to actively share information, report suspicious activity, and stay informed about local security issues. Call 911 in an emergency.
  

Community Connections

Will there be more events?
We can coordinate more informal, low-cost gatherings and seasonal decorating contests. We have been hosting quarterly events with little participation. We would love to hear your ideas to plan events that excite our neighbors and increase participation. Volunteers make these possible; reach out if you’d like to help!

Can anything be done to improve the noise at The Greens Tot Lot?
Unfortunately the noise from the highway is out of our control. However, in 2023, the board applied for Maps4 funding to improve the Tot Lot, the neighborhood park owned by OKC Parks. The Tot Lot was awarded almost $90,000 in funding for improvements in 2028, including five trees, a covered pavilion, and new seating. We are hopeful this may improve the experience for those who wish to gather and play in this space.

Will paying my dues allow me access to The Greens Country Club?
No. Supporting The Greens Neighborhood Association does not give you access to The Greens Country Club racquet center, golf course, or social membership. Over the past year, The Greens Country Club has graciously extended invitations to the entire neighborhood for food truck night, the Fourth of July parade, and the Block Party (with pool access). If you are interested in a club membership contact join@thegreenscc.com.

Could we work with The Greens Country Club to find a solution that stops unauthorized street parking to ensure our neighborhood's safety and traffic flow?
We reached out to the club and learned three large storage bins have recently been removed from the parking lot. They will remind members to park on the grass and follow signage or risk being towed or fined. Staff have been asked to carpool or park on the grass.

How can I stay informed?
Join The Greens Neighborhood Association Facebook group, visit thegreensokc.com, and sign up for our monthly e-newsletter.