Well, here at the end of 2006, and what an interesting year we've had on the Ranch. I don't have much to talk about this time, but here are some stats from the ACC.

In 2005, we had 162 permits issued, and 38 of those were for new homes. In 2006 so far we've had 188 permits issued, and 50 of those were for new homes.

Looks like omebuilding may be picking up here in East Texas. I don't remember the exact number, but I believe the most new home permits in a year was just over a hundred, back around the end of the last century.

If you need to get a permit application, be sure to use one with a revision date of October 18, 2006. It has important information and instructions on it.

Permits are required for any new or remodeling building projects, including fences, boat docks, decks, addition of heated/cooled space or tree removal. In other words if it's new, and requires lumber and nails, you need a permit. What you do not need a permit for is repairs to existing structures if you are not changing the original design, for example, replacing a roof or repairing a deck. Permits are required to be submitted at the office by five P.M. on any Tuesday for consideration by the A. C. C. at its Wednesday morning meeting. Approved permits are generally ready to be picked up at the office by noon Tuesday.

There is a written set of strict rules and regulations governing the installation of propane systems because of the inherent danger of any gas system. A list of these rules is available at the office.

We plan to keep a file of feedback on the contractors, which will be available to any property owner. We invite your timely feedback or comments about contractors with which you have done business, whether it's good or bad. If you're happy about a job you have had done, submit it in writing and we will file it. Conversely, if you're unhappy with a contractor, let us know, but state only the facts. Do not call someone a crook. You can be sued for that. If you do want to place negative feedback in the file, the contractor will get a copy of the letter, and will be allowed to place an answer into the file.

In certain sections on the Ranch, home foundations are required to be either poured reinforce concrete pier and beam or poured reinforced concrete slab. All of the foundation under the roof must be of the same construction. In other words, a covered porch or deck under the roof must be of the same construction as the enclosed space. We have run into problems where a deck or porch, attached to a house with a concrete foundation under the roof, was built on timber or post foundation. Homeowners have enclosed those porches without replacing the foundation to match the foundation of the house, resulting in a home which doesn't meet the section requirements.

If you want to cover a deck or porch by extending the roof over the area to be inclosed, then the foundation must match that of the rest of the house. This could mean replacing the existing porch or deck.