October 1, 2025 | Mark Luis Foster

Where did summer go? I find myself wondering, and some people out west are also wondering why fines keep coming when irrigation water is sparse.

Residents in an HOA near Modesto, California, are seeking to recall an HOA board, saying “the group has prioritized cosmetic fines over addressing a looming water crisis.”

From CBS Sacramento:

Residents have already seen their monthly bills spike after agreeing to steep rate hikes this summer to keep water flowing through the end of 2025. Kern County Water Agency extended deliveries until Dec. 31 after the Western Hills Water District committed to payments on its $13 million debt.

It comes down to high water costs and conservation efforts within that HOA, with bills rising above $500 a month for water use, according to one resident there. Obviously residents are trying to conserve and save money, but the HOA has been fining residents for brown lawns and other “minor violations.”

“Several community members have come to me… and notified me that they were getting fines for things that really right now shouldn’t matter,” said Debra Antigua, who leads the Diablo Grande Action Committee. “Their lawns are yellowing. Their paint trim is getting a little dry. Now is just not the time.”

A recall effort is underway to remove the board. Residents are pursuing a recall petition, which will require 717 votes or 51% of property owners voting to remove sitting board members.

You can read the whole story from CBS Sacramento HERE.