Where Your Money Goes
At Summit at South Mountain, we are committed to transparency and responsible stewardship of community funds. This page highlights our recent HOA-funded improvements and illustrates how your dues support the beautification and long-term value of our community. We invite you to explore the projects that make our neighborhood a better place to call home.
SAFETY NOTICE: The Park near 4th St. and Milada is temporarily closed due to failing perimeter walls. Please do not enter the park or cross the caution tape while repairs are being evaluated. This is currently a high-priority safety matter for the board.
Financial Overview
Financial Planning & Transparency
The HOA Board follows a responsible long-term financial planning process focused on maintaining community assets, funding necessary repairs and improvements, and avoiding unexpected costs for homeowners.
The Board recently approved in March a professional reserve study to help plan for long-term community maintenance, understand future funding needs, and reduce the risk of unexpected special assessments or large unplanned costs for residents. The findings of this report are expected in April 2026.
Completed Community Projects
Landscaping & Tree Upgrades
Tot Lot Monthly Safety Inspection & Maintenance
Tree Maintenance & Safety Improvements (Completed April 2026)
Five new trees were installed at 4th and Milada to improve shade and neighborhood landscaping. A Palo Verde tree was also added at the roundabout to enhance the entrance to the community. Cost $1300
The HOA conducts regular monthly inspections and maintenance of the community playground (Tot Lot) to ensure a safe and clean environment for residents. ($200 per month)
The HOA Board completed a community-wide tree maintenance project following an assessment by a certified arborist from Genesis Landscape Solutions.
The arborist identified several trees that had not been pruned for multiple years, leading to overgrowth, structural stress, and potential safety concerns near homes, sidewalks, and roadways.
To improve safety and restore tree health, the following work was completed:
• Pruning of 59 trees throughout the community
• Removal of 5 trees that were dead or severely deteriorated
• Stump grinding for removed trees
• Professional arborist supervision in accordance with ANSI tree care standards
Total Project Cost: $12,362.65
Vendor: Genesis Landscape Solutions
A certified playground safety inspector evaluates equipment, surfaces, and surrounding areas for hazards, while routine maintenance addresses cleanliness and general upkeep.
Recent inspections identified areas for improvement, including repairs to the rubberized surface and maintenance of ramada structures. These items are currently under review and will be addressed as part of upcoming community improvements.
Turf Aeration & Soil Improvement Completed
To support healthier and more resilient landscaping throughout the community, the HOA completed turf aeration and soil amendment treatments in the common areas.
This maintenance included:
-
Core aeration of turf areas
-
Application of pelletized gypsum soil amendments
These treatments help improve soil condition, water penetration, root growth, and the overall health and appearance of the grass areas within the community.
The work was completed as part of the HOA’s ongoing effort to maintain and improve our shared landscape spaces for residents. $675
Turf aeration, treatment, and tree maintenance efforts have improved the overall health and appearance of the community landscape.
Before
After
New Table and New Grill
The HOA installed a new picnic table and charcoal grill in the community ramada area to provide an additional gathering space for residents and families ($750). This project was completed in approximately January 2026.
How Your Dues Are Used
At Summit at South Mountain, our HOA dues are invested in the long-term beauty, safety, and value of the community. These funds support essential maintenance, landscape care, and infrastructure projects that protect property values for every resident.
The Board follows a responsible, long-term financial planning process focused on maintaining community assets and funding necessary repairs through regular reserve study updates, ensuring stable and transparent stewardship of neighborhood funds.
MAINTENANCE & REPAIRS / Operations
- Common area landscaping and irrigation (approximately $4,600/month for routine maintenance)
- Common area water & sewer (approximately $1,900/ month)
- HOA-owned walls, monuments, and structures
- Repairs to community assets as needed
- Community management services (approximately $1,750/month)
- Note: Public streets and city infrastructure within the community are maintained by the City of Phoenix
RESERVES & LONG-TERM PROJECTS
- Reserve study updates
- Major asset replacement
- Emergency funding
COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
- Community website
- Resident newsletters
- Meeting & event logistics
LANDSCAPING & BEAUTIFICATION
- Tree & shrub care
- Irrigation system upkeep
- Seasonal planting
In Progress
Perimeter Wall Safety Repairs
The HOA Board has identified areas along the perimeter wall at the park near 4th Street and Milada Drive where bricks have become loose or have fallen. This condition presents both a maintenance concern and a potential safety issue.
The Board is currently evaluating repair options and obtaining quotes to address the damaged sections and prevent further deterioration. We are actively addressing the identified perimeter wall repairs that are needed.
Northside Park Walkway
The Board is currently gathering quotes for the installation of a concrete walkway at the northside park along Central Avenue. This project is being evaluated as a higher-priority improvement to enhance accessibility and usability of the park.
Landscaping Contract Improvements
The Board is working with Genesis Landscape Solutions to strengthen the landscaping contract by adding clearer service expectations and accountability measures. This includes defining how frequently irrigation systems are monitored, expanding services to include trash and debris pickup along Central Avenue and Dobbins Road, and improving transparency around irrigation schedules so performance can be better tracked.
Reserve Study
The HOA Board recently met with a reserve specialist and is in the process of completing a new reserve study for the community. This study will help guide long-term planning and ensure appropriate budgeting for future repairs and replacements. The updated reserve study is expected shortly May 2026.
Playground Equipment Evaluation
The HOA is currently reviewing potential improvements to the community playground area. A vendor is scheduled to revisit the site to assess equipment and safety features and provide recommendations for future updates..
Perimeter Wall Safety Repairs
The HOA Board has identified areas along the perimeter wall at the park near 4th Street and Milada Drive where bricks have become loose or have fallen. This condition presents both a maintenance concern and a potential safety issue.
The Board is currently evaluating repair options and obtaining quotes to address the damaged sections and prevent further deterioration. We are actively addressing the identified perimeter wall repairs that are needed.
New Landscape Enhancements Approved
The HOA Board has approved May '26, a new landscape enhancement project in partnership with Genesis Landscape Solutions. Improvements will include the installation of new trees and drought-tolerant plants in several community areas, including Valley View, 1st Street, and 4th Street.
Planned additions include:
-
Live Oak trees
-
Texas Sage
-
Red Yucca
-
Ruellia plantings
The project also includes minor irrigation modifications to support the new landscaping and ensure proper watering coverage. Granite will be restored in planting areas after installation, and cleanup/disposal is included as part of the project.
These updates are intended to improve curb appeal, refresh common areas, and enhance the overall appearance of the community.
Phase Two of Tree Pruning (Winter Trees)
Phase One addressed summer trees, which require pruning at different times of the year. The next phase will focus on winter trees. A quote will be obtained once the arborist is able to assess the trees at the appropriate time of year and determine the scope of work.
Exterior Perimeter Wall Painting (Street-Facing Walls)
Some sections of the exterior walls facing the streets have experienced sun exposure and discoloration over time. Periodic repainting helps maintain the appearance of the community and protects the wall surfaces.
Concept rendering of potential improvements for the park at 4th Street and Milada
Phase Two of Tree Pruning (Winter Trees)
Phase One addressed summer trees, which require pruning at different times of the year. The next phase will focus on winter trees. A quote will be obtained once the arborist is able to assess the trees at the appropriate time of year and determine the scope of work. The board has approved this as of May '26.
Exterior Perimeter Wall Painting (Street-Facing Walls)
Some sections of the exterior walls facing the streets have experienced sun exposure and discoloration over time. Periodic repainting helps maintain the appearance of the community and protects the wall surfaces.
Park Area Improvements - 4th Street & Milada
The park area at 4th Street and Milada has experienced tree loss and aging landscaping over time. A future improvement project may include updating the landscaping, replacing trees, and exploring features such as shaded seating or a small ramada to enhance the space for residents.
Landscape Enhancements
Landscape improvements are for several common areas of the community. Proposed work may include planting additional trees and drought-tolerant plants along Valley View, 1st Street, and 4th Street to enhance the appearance of the neighborhood and replace aging landscaping.
Rock Removal - Playground Park between Milada and Beth
Decorative rocks were originally installed in this area to help manage water runoff and drainage. However, loose rocks have frequently been displaced/moved and have caused damage to nearby sprinkler heads and irrigation equipment. Removing the rocks and exploring alternative drainage solutions may help prevent ongoing repairs and improve maintenance of the park area.
Park Area Improvements - 4th Street & Milada
The park area at 4th Street and Milada has experienced tree loss and aging landscaping over time. A future improvement project may include updating the landscaping, replacing trees, and exploring features such as shaded seating or a small ramada to enhance the space for residents.
On The Horizon
Possible Turf Reduction Evaluation
The Board is currently evaluating long-term landscaping options for select common areas, including the possibility of reducing turf in portions of the community to help address rising water costs, ongoing irrigation maintenance, and long-term sustainability concerns.
At this time, no decisions have been made regarding any park conversions. Community feedback, appearance, usability, heat impact, maintenance costs, and overall neighborhood value will all be carefully considered before any future changes are proposed.
We understand that community green spaces are important to many residents and any potential modifications would be reviewed thoughtfully and transparently before moving forward.
Board History and Past Decisions
Speed Bumps Request (Traffic Calming)
In response to resident concerns, the Board previously requested that the City evaluate the installation of speed bumps within the community in 2016 to 2018.
The City conducted a traffic study and determined that traffic levels and speeds did not meet the required criteria for speed bump installation.
As a result, the request was not approved.
Abandoned Vehicles – What Residents Can Do
If you believe a vehicle has been abandoned in the neighborhood, residents can help by documenting and reporting the issue. The City may require evidence that a vehicle has not been moved over a period of time before taking action. The HOA can issue warning letters for these vehicles and concerned citizens may report these vehicles to the City of Phoenix and the Police Department.
Recommended steps:
-
Take a photo of the vehicle each day to establish a timeline
-
Ensure photos clearly show the vehicle and surroundings
-
Note the location and any visible condition issues (flat tires, damage, etc.)