Village at Thornapple News

Posted on

Join the Board in 2026!

Your community needs you!

The VAT HOA Board of Directors has had several of its Directors serve for multiple years due to a lack of community engagement.  We could use your help in giving these folks a break from community governance by welcoming some fresh faces to the Board.

The role and function of the Board of Directors is to manage the business of the Association defined as:  financial management, property maintenance, and document enforcement. Please review The Village at Thornapple  Homeowners’ Association Community Handbook, 7.0 Edition, Code of Regulations, Pages 3-11.

Concerned you may not have time to commit? The Board only meets one evening a month and Board Members are subject to a rotating on-call to respond to homeowner messages. Some additional responsibilities may require additional time commitment, but this is typically minimal and shared among the members. After all, more hands make light work!

Worried you need a particular type of experience to join? Don’t worry, no prior experience is required (but always appreciated!). All homeowners are welcome to apply for a board member position. While experience in the areas of community governance, finance, or administration are appreciated they are not required. We are looking for passionate community members that are committed to upholding our governing documents and keep our community flourishing.

Currently there are two open Board positions and two additional seats up for election in 2026. Applications are strongly encouraged.

In addition to completing an application to be come a board member. Board members are also subject to the following document:

Upon acceptance of a Board position the member application and these documents will need to be signed and returned to the Board prior to attendance at first meeting.

Applications for Board positions may be submitted by completing the web form found here or by completing the following application:

 

and submitting via email to [email protected]

Applications should be submitted no later than two weeks prior to the annual meeting. Applications received after this date will be held in consideration for any vacated board seats.

Posted on

Thorncrest Entrance Street Sign

Please use caution at the Thorncrest Drive and Alton-Darby Road entrance – the street sign as come loose and it currently hanging from the pole. The city has been informed of this issue and will be sending a crew to address.

Please do not walk near or under this sign until the issue is resolved.

Posted on

2026 News & Annual Meeting Announcement

Hello Neighbors,

The Board would like to wish all members of our community a very happy new year!

A letter is currently in the mail to all homeowners outlining some new information for 2026. Below is the full text of this letter as well as a link to a PDF version of this letter.

We ask that all neighbors please read this document thoroughly as it outlines details about our property manager change, annual assessment (dues) invoicing details, as well as details for our upcoming annual meeting.

Any questions can be directed to the Board via email ([email protected]) or neighbors are welcome to bring any questions to the annual meeting.

Wishing everyone a happy 2026.  Full text follows below or click here for a PDF.

Annual Meeting Details

The Annual meeting will be held:

DATE: Saturday, February 7th, 2026
TIME: 2:00 PM-4:00 PM
LOCATION: Prairie Township Community Center
5955 West Broad Street
Galloway, OH 43119

Please excuse any formatting issues below.

December 29th, 2025

Dear Homeowners,

We are writing to inform you of an upcoming change in property management for our association.

Sadly, our previous property manager Vida Burns with VB Business Service passed away after a brief illness. We are grateful for the service they provided to the Association, and our thoughts are with their family during this time.

To ensure continuity of operations and support for our community, the Board has appointed Towne Properties as the Association’s new property manager, effective January 1,2026.

What this means for homeowners:

  • Day-to-day concerns that affect the association will be handled by Towne Properties
  • Payment instructions, maintenance requests, and general inquiries will be directed to the new management team however homeowners may always reach out to the Board directly with concerns
  • Towne Properties is currently working with the Board of Directors with the transition of community records and will be sending an introduction letter, along with updated contact information and account payment instructions to all residents.  Please hold off on paying your annual HOA fees until you receive this information 

During this transition, the Board will be working closely with the new management company to ensure a smooth handoff and minimal disruption to the Association. As always homeowners are encouraged to reach out to the City of Columbus 311 office with city code related concerns. More information can be found at: https://www.columbus.gov/311-Customer-Service-Center

We appreciate your patience and understanding during this period of change. please contact the Board directly via email to [email protected] with any questions.

Thank you for your continued cooperation and support of our community.

Sincerely,

2025 Village at Thornapple Board of Directors

The Village at Thornapple Homeowners’ Association
2026 Notice of Annual Meeting

Dear Village at Thornapple Association members,

The Annual meeting will be held:

DATE: Saturday, February 7th, 2026
TIME: 2:00 PM-4:00 PM
LOCATION:

Prairie Township Community Center
5955 West Broad Street
Galloway, OH 43119

The primary purpose of the Annual meeting is to elect Board members. We encourage you to become involved! If you are interested in becoming a Board member please complete the attached form or visit the Association Website, www.thornappleassociation.org , to obtain and submit the forms.

Completed forms should be returned to:

Towne Properties
C/O The Village at Thornapple Annual Meeting
777-A DEARBORNE PARK LANE

COLUMBUS, OH  43085

 

If you are unable to attend the meeting but would like to vote for the open Directors’ positions, please complete the enclosed Proxy Form. You may send the completed Proxy Form to the meeting along with your designated representative or mail to our management company.

Please join us at the Annual Meeting!

 

Thank you,
2025 VAT Board of Directors
[email protected]

 

 


The Village at Thornapple Homeowners’ Association
Board of Directors Nomination Form

Job Description: The role and function of the Board of Directors is to manage the business of the Association as defined: financial management, property maintenance, and document enforcement. Please review The Village at Thornapple Homeowners’ Association Community Handbook, 7 Edition, Code of Regulations, Pages 3-11.

Nominee Information
Please print clearly.
Name
Address
Phone Number
Email

 

Nominee Experience
Please describe your financial, legal, and/or management expertise and
how those skills may be applied as a Board Director.
Please print clearly.

Please note: Board Members elected via a Nomination Form are still required to complete the formal Board Member application as well as the Board of Directors Code of Conduct and Board of Directors Responsibilities Forms if elected. These forms can be accessed via the association website or provided upon request or at the Annual Meeting.

Nominee Signature: ____________________________________  Date: ________________________

 

Annual Homeowners’ Meeting Proxy Form

I, the undersigned homeowner, do hereby constitute and appoint ______________________
(if left blank, the Board President will act as designated representative) for me and in my name, place, and stead, to vote my proxy at The Village at Thornapple Annual Homeowners’ Meeting to be held on ____________________________and at any adjournment thereof, according to the number of votes I now or may be entitled to cast in voting for Directors of the Association, and in the transaction of such other business as may come before the meeting.

This proxy shall expire at the adjournment of said Annual Meeting, or any adjournment thereof.

Homeowner’s Name (Please Print) ____________________________________________________

Address  ____________________________________________________________________________

Homeowner’s Signature___________________________________ Date______________________

*************************************************************************************

Your completed and signed Proxy, Nomination, Board Director Code of Conduct, and Board Director Responsibilities Forms must be postmarked no later than January 15th, 2026.

Please mail to:

Towne Properties
C/O The Village at Thornapple Annual Meeting
777-A DEARBORNE PARK LANE
COLUMBUS, OH  43085

 

Posted on

Fall Reminders – Leaves, Pets, Trash and More

It’s almost officially fall and many folks are looking forward to cooler weather, fall sports, and an excuse for pumpkin spice everything. Here are some timely neighborly reminders for our community:

Leaf Cleanup

  • The city of Columbus does not vacuum up leaves from the curb or clear any street gutters. Please take some time to remove leaves from sidewalks/street gutters. Wet leaves can create dangerously slick sidewalks. Also the gutter drains get blocked not allowing water runoff from rain or ice melt to make it to sewers as we move into the winter months.
  • Please do not leave blown leaves in the street or blow them down the street to other homes. This creates additional work for homeowners who are already battling leaves of their own.
  • Don’t forget to check gutters and downspouts for leaves. Backups of leaves trap water and eventually ice in the colder months. This causes gutters to separate from homes and could cause blockages and backups in the sewer systems.

All leaves should be bagged and stored until the next scheduled recycling/yard waste pickup.

Pet Waste

Please be sure to pickup and dispose of pet waste properly in your own receptacles. Pet waste left behind damages lawns and threaten our waterways and environment – plus it is part of state law. Read more here:

https://www.columbus.gov/Services/Columbus-Water-Power/About-Columbus-Water-Power/Sustainability-at-Columbus-Water-Power/Its-Time-to-PUP-Columbus

Trash Day

For homeowners who may not be aware the City of Columbus recently adjusted the pickup colors and zones around about half of the city. Our community now falls under the RUBY rotating pickup schedule. You can always signup for alerts on trash/recycling/yard waste pickup directly with the city at: https://www.columbus.gov/Services/Trash-Recycling-Bulk-Collection/Find-My-Collection-Day or by calling Columbus 311 at: 614 645 3111.

Join the Board

Have you been looking for a way to participate more actively within the VAT community? Apply to be a board member.

Currently two member seats are available and we would love for you to join!

Serving on the Board is a great way to understand our HOA and its responsibilities more fully, get to know your neighbors, and work toward keeping our community and its assets vibrant for years to come.

Information about serving on the Board can be found our website at:

https://thornappleassociation.org/homeowner-resources/board-of-directors-application/

Applications can be submitted via the webform above or you can download and complete the application online an submit via email to [email protected].

Have a wonderful fall VAT!

Posted on

Vehicle Break-Ins & Safety Tips

Hello Neighbors,

As many may already know, there were additional vehicle break-ins reported in the overnight hours of 3-5AM Sunday to Monday morning. Neighbors have reported that items were stolen or vehicles were rummaged through. Neighbors also reported having garage doors being opened – but not specific reports of theft from the garages or attempted home entries. Sadly our community is not alone in these incidents as similar incidents are being reported in Powell and other central Ohio areas:

https://abc6onyourside.com/news/local/police-investigate-surge-in-car-break-ins-across-delaware-county-ohio#

The Board takes all these reports very seriously and strongly encourages all the affected homeowners to file the appropriate reports with the Columbus Police. Reports can be filed online at: https://www.columbus.gov/Services/Public-Safety/File-a-Police-Report it is important to note that in the city of Columbus and property theft over $1000 is considered a felony – so filing these reports is tremendously important.

Columbus Police are aware of these crimes happening in our community and as recently as February when they attended the HOA Annual Meeting gave our community the guidance that we are not alone in being affected by these crimes.

The Board has previously explored the cost of pursuing private security, installing video cameras, and even hiring off duty CPD officers for private patrols. This was discussed with our Community Liaison Officer (Officer Paulus*) when he was at our annual meeting. These options all come with additional unbudgeted costs as well as risk and liability to the association. Given the random and inconsistent nature of this crime it is quite possible that future budgeted funds could be exhausted and this type of crime will still persist. There is no consistent tactic that has proven effective other than community awareness and reducing interest in our community by securing property out of sight.

We understand the frustration that the affected homeowners are feeling and the HOA is communication with our property manager as well as Columbus Police. We encourage homeowners to secure their homes and property to the best of their ability at all times. Tips for home security measures are noted below.

Most especially we urge all homeowners to stay vigilant and safe while out in the community. If you see anyone suspicious in the community report the activity to the police non-emergency phone number: 614-645-4545. If you witness a crime in real-time, ensure your safety first and then call 911. If you see unfamiliar vehicles or suspicious persons in the neighborhood take note of make/model and any identifying characteristics – if you can do so safely. Be sure to save the non emergency number to your mobile phone so you can call at any time.

Please stay safe everyone.

*Officer Paulus recently took on a new role within the CPD, currently there is not a replacement CLO. Once a new officer is named to this role we will be sure to update the community.

Tips for Home Safety and Security
Below are listed several safety and security tips to consider for your home. The most important thing homeowners can do is be consistent in doing these items. Security isn’t for a few weeks, it must be practiced at all times.

    1. Keep all vehicles, doors, and windows closed and locked when not in use – especially garage doors and storm doors.Too often while mowing grass or completing other home errands these doors are left open leaving an opportunity for would be thieves to case property for valuables. If you use a storm door to allow natural light in, consider adding a window cling cover that “frosts” the glass to obscure your homes contents.
    2. If you park vehicles outdoors ensure that no valuables are left visible – including sunglasses, purses/backpacks/gym bags, tools/tool bags, tablets/laptops.If you do leave belongings like this in your vehicle label and take note of serial numbers and keep that information safe. In many cases you can add Apple Airtags or Tiles to these items to increase the likelihood of them being found. Be sure features like “Find My Phone” are active and up-to-date. Password protect your devices as applicable to render them useless in case they are used.
    3. Make sure you know how to use all the security items on your property and that these items are functioning properly.Flood lights and cameras should be functioning and aimed properly. Motion settings for lights and camera should be checked to ensure the appropriate sensitivity settings. Alarms should be armed when appropriate. Regularly check any and all window and glass-break sensors to ensure everything is functioning. Use your garage to store vehicles instead of leaving vehicles outdoors when possible.
    4. Create a nightly safety routine.Create a nightly routine checking vehicles, doors, and windows. If your vehicle has a “built-in” garage door opener see if your garage door is able to disable remotes and learn how to use this feature. Lock walkthrough doors leading from your home to your garage. Double check all windows to ensure they are completely closed and secure.

Finally, if you or your home are targeted by theft or have vehicles gone through – be sure to file a police report. The more reports we can point to indicating the crime this can aid CPD with suspects and tying additional crime incidents to those in our community.

Posted on

2025 Community Garage Sale – Mark your calendar!

Summer is fast approaching, and there have been several inquiries about when our community garage sale will take place. This annual event falls on the second weekend of June, and for the second year in a row, our neighbors in Thornapple Highlands will also be holding their community sale on the same dates.

The dates for 2025 will be June 13th and 14th.

As always, events like this bring unfamiliar faces into our communities. Please remember to follow best practices to keep our neighborhoods safe during this event:

  • When possible, display items on driveways rather than inside garages, where it’s easier for others to see items not for sale—such as tools, safes, vehicles, and equipment.

  • Any large items being sold should be placed outside the home to eliminate the need for anyone to enter your property.

  • High-value items and any cash being exchanged should be monitored at all times.

  • Be sure to secure your home and vehicles at the conclusion of any sales.

We look forward to strong community participation and hope everyone takes this opportunity to connect with neighbors and welcome new faces to the community.

Posted on

Outdoor Projects & Yard Maintenance Reminders

Hello Neighbors,

Spring continues to roll on in central Ohio with many neighbors being spotted outside working to prepare beds for the warmer months.

A few reminders as we move into the spring and summer months about yard/landscaping maintenance and summer projects. Quick handbook references are included for convenience but please be sure to always reference the current handbook to ensure compliance.

 

  • Lawns should maintain a neat and attractive appearance

In the warm months a beautifully kept lawn is a point of pride for many households in our neighborhood. However getting a healthy lawn can be a multi-month/year challenge. Please be sure to research the products being used on your property to be sure they are appropriate for our growing region and also your yard conditions. Examples of this include: using appropriate grass seed (shade or sunny mixes, drought tolerant, etc.), monitoring/treating insect damage, applying grass seed, and pulling weeds. As a community the requirement for the association indicates:

Each homeowner shall maintain the landscaping and lawn area in an attractive appearance that enhances the home’s year-round curb appeal. It must be maintained free from insects, diseases, and weeds.
VAT Handbook 7.0, Landscape Maintenance, Page 28

 

  • Double check the VAT handbook prior to making any exterior improvements and make sure to leave time for the application process

Many, but not all, exterior improvements require an RR (Request for Review) application. These applications help make sure that any new work is in compliance with our community standards. Popular spring and summer exterior projects that require applications include: exterior painting, landscaping, roof/window replacement, fences, playset installations, and more. If you aren’t sure if your project will need an RR you can submit a form on the website, contact our property manager, or reach out to the Board via email for clarification.

All proposals for construction, exterior improvement, including any color changes from existing colors, or modification, and enforcement compliance on any lot must be submitted to the property management company and/or ARC with a completed Request to Review Application at least thirty (30) days prior to the start of the proposed action. Failure to obtain written approval prior to proceeding with construction or the exterior modification will result in the Enforcement Process (p. 30). Please see Request to Review Application. Deviations or modifications from the approved application without written approval will result in the Enforcement Process.
VAT Handbook 7.0, Request To Review Process, Required Review, Page 19

 

  • When removing shrubs from front elevations, be sure to do a count of your foundational plantings 

Each homeowner shall establish and maintain landscaping in a planned design that enhances the appearance of the home. Front elevation landscaping shall consist of a minimum of nine (9) mature foundational plantings of live trees and or shrubs. Trees or shrubs on the sides of the home, provided that they are fully visible from central front elevation, may be counted toward the nine (9) foundational plantings. Foundational plantings do not include annuals and perennials.
VAT Handbook 7.0, Landscape Design Requirements, Page 28 

 

  • Dead/dying plants should be removed from landscaping

As much as we might hope that all our plants stay alive, the reality is they don’t. Many home & garden stores offer warranties on their plants for up to a year. Be sure to check your store’s policy and hold on to your receipts to be able to use these policies in case your plants don’t survive their first year. The handbook standard for removing dead or dying plants is as follows:

Homeowners shall remove dead trees and plants within thirty (30) days after 75% or more of the tree or plant appears dead. Mulch and/or ground cover shall be replenished routinely in order to provide a well-maintained appearance (Landscape Bed Ground Cover). Routine trimming and pruning of trees and plants is required to prevent an overgrown look. Landscaping beds shall maintain a separate and distinct border from the lawn.
VAT Handbook 7.0, Landscape Maintenance, Page 28 

We hope these reminders help keep our community looking beautiful and make working through the RR process this summer easier for everyone!
Posted on

Reminder – VAT Egg Hunt – Saturday April 12

REMINDER – This Saturday will be our community egg hunt!

The annual Easter egg hunt will be held at the community park on Saturday, April 12th at 1:00 PM, rain or shine. This fun community event is for children ages 1 – 10. Plus, the Easter bunny should be there for picture taking!

So far the weather looks to be brisk, so make sure to bundle up those kiddos. Also, please be sure to arrive on time. The egg hunt can be a “blink and you missed it” event so arriving on time is a must.

Parents
The Easter bunny will be arriving just before our event and will be available for photos for the duration of our event. Please bring a basket or other container to use while gathering eggs.  At the end of the hunt if parents can empty and close the plastic eggs that would be helpful. All the plastic eggs will be collected for future egg hunts.

Volunteers Needed
Volunteers are still needed for this event to hide eggs as well as help clean up after the event. This takes about 20 minutes before and after the event. If you are able to assist please sign up at link below:

Sign Up Genius – VAT Easter Egg Hunt

A huge thank you to everyone that donated candy for this event and to our friends of the Easter bunny for taking the time to hop by our community and meet our families. The generosity of our neighbors is what allows us to host these events and we are so grateful to have such a vibrant community!

 

Posted on

Hop & Hunt With the Easter Bunny April 12

Village at Thornapple Social Committee is hosting the annual Easter egg hunt at 1:00 on Saturday, April 12 at our park!

Bring your kiddos aged 1 to 10 and your Easter baskets for fun and prizes. Hippity hop along with the Easter bunny and snap a fluffy photo!

This event is rain or shine, so bring your umbrellas just in case, and hop (or hope) for the best weather!

In keeping with prior years, we are asking for the community’s help with candy donations. We are seeking to fill a total of 900 Easter eggs with candy/prizes. Below is a link to our SignUp Genius for this event. Donations are needed by April 5 at the latest.

Please note: failure to secure enough donations will result in this event’s cancellation.

Posted on

Reminder to Remove Holiday Lights & Decorations

Holiday-specific decorations shall be removed within four (4) weeks after the holiday.  Seasonal-specific decorations are limited to the season.  Team flags are permitted for the sport’s season only. (adopted 5/2022) Excessive yard ornamentation, defined in terms of quantity and size, is not permitted.  Outdoor décor shall be maintained in good repair.  Outdoor décor that is not in good repair shall be disposed of or stored in the garage.  Outdoor string lights may be installed on only approved permanent and recreational structures.  See Porch, Deck, and Patio, p.24 and Sunrooms, Solariums, Trellises, Arbors, Gazebos, and Hot Tubs, p.27.

Per “Yard Ornamentation and Outdoor Decor”: Page 27 of the Community Handbook.

©2026 Thornapple Association, Inc.