LINKSIDE AT BAYMEADOWS NEWSLETTER – FALL 2025

OCTOBER | NOVEMBER | DECEMBER


NEW HOA BOARD MEMBERS

Blake Olsen – has accepted nomination for the position of Secretary. He comes with 20+ years experience in the business sector doing inside training. This position was previosuly held by Erin Kofoed, who accepted the position of interim President.

Patricia Mattingly – has accepted nomination for the position of Treasurer. She is a career bookkeeper, and has extensive knowledge doing the bookkeeping for several million dollar companies in Arizona and Colorado. She is excited to make our processes streamlined and offer fast responses to residents. This position was previously held by Susan Delmerico who has resigned from her interim position.

Diana Maiogan – has accepted nomination as member at large. She works in the healthcare sector, and is excited to offer her expertise in community event planning, newsletter content, and is willing to help with anything needed at board meetings.

We could not operate our HOA without volunteers who are residents. We are a small community with only 81 houses to poll interest from. That means we need YOUR HELP to continue to operate without a management company (which would SIGNIFICANTLY raise HOA dues). Please thank our board members, as their ongoing commitment day-in and day-out has ensured that our neighborhood offers opportunities to build community, and ensure the neighborhood is held to the high standards we have all come to love and appreciate as residents of Linkside at Baymeadows. Keeping dues low is a top priority, and the reason many of us serve tirelessly to every resident’s benefit.

NOTE: We are still trying to fill 2 more positions as Member At Large. If you have skills that could benefit our community, please reach out by replying to this email (the reply will only go to our President). We are also trying to locate 3 residents to serve on our “Auditing Committee” who will ensure correct practices in community bookkeeping prior to our annual meeting by performing an internal audit of all expenses for the past year. The Audit committee will meet in January 2026, so please respond with your availability.


RESIDENT SPOTLIGHT

DIANA MAIOGAN – BOARD MEMBER AT LARGE

Diana and Joseph with their two small dogs (Gretel and Monkey) have lived at 9238 Carnoustie Lane for approximately two years. Moving from Chicago and working at the Mayo Clinic, she has found a quiet oasis in our neighborhood with the palm tree foliage around her home, giving her a feeling of being on vacation. Diana, with her bubbly and energetic personality (although she claims to be an introvert) will be a great asset as a member at large on the HOA Board. She has offered to help on various committees wherever needed. She ventured out to the July Luau and is hoping to see more participation at these family friendly social gatherings where neighbors can meet. In her spare time, she plays soccer and would like to get back to doing ceramics and other art forms.


PET OF THE QUARTER

MR CHRISTMAS – ADOPTED BY CAMILLE WINN

Mr. Christmas is a Craigslist recue who is living his best life with his new family. His name is Mr. Christmas because his family adopted him the week before Christmas when he was seven years old. Camille states he’s not yet completely comfortable, but does enjoy his daily walks around the neighborhood. He loves all dogs because in his previous life he was used as a stud. Sorry ladies, he is now retired. This is a photo of him in his favorite spot. He loves to couch surf, and likes meeting new friends along the way. If you see him out and about, be sure to say “hi” and welcome him to Linkside at Baymeadows!


HALLOWEEN GUIDELINES

🎃 Creating a Welcoming Neighborhood for Trick-or-Treaters
Simple Standards for a Spook-tacular Halloween Night

Halloween is just around the corner, and that means costumes, candy, and community fun! Whether you’re new to the neighborhood or a seasoned local, it’s important to make sure our streets are safe, inclusive, and welcoming for trick-or-treaters of all ages. Here’s how we can all help create a festive and friendly Halloween atmosphere:


🏠 Porch Light = Candy Welcome

The simplest standard to follow: a porch light on means you’re participating. If you’re handing out treats, make sure your porch and pathway are well-lit. If you’d prefer not to participate this year, it’s totally okay—just keep your front lights off to send a clear (but kind) signal.


🚸 Safety First

  • Keep walkways clear of tripping hazards like cords, decorations, or wet leaves.
  • Use battery-operated candles instead of real flames in jack-o’-lanterns to prevent fires.
  • Drive cautiously and remind guests to watch for children crossing streets and driveways.

🎃 Be Inclusive and Kind

  • Remember that not every child will say “trick or treat” or “thank you”—some may be non-verbal or shy. Always greet each visitor with a smile and patience.
  • Encourage kids and families from outside our neighborhood to join in—we’re all part of a larger community!

Let’s work together to make this Halloween fun, safe, and inclusive for everyone. When we open our doors with a smile and a bowl of candy, we’re doing more than just handing out sweets—we’re building a stronger, more connected neighborhood.

Happy Halloween! 🧡


RESIDENT EVENT: 👻 HOA Halloween Scavenger Hunt!

Get ready for a frightfully fun night around the neighborhood! Join us for our Halloween Scavenger Hunt, where families and friends will follow spooky clues from house to house — solving riddles, collecting treats, and racing to the final stop for prizes! 🕵️‍♀️🍬


🕸️ How It Works

  1. Start: Participants will receive their first clue at the starting house.
  2. Hunt: Each clue will lead you to the next home, where a friendly host will hand out candy and your next clue.
  3. Finish: The final stop will reveal the last challenge and the location of the prize!

🎁 The first 4 individuals or teams to finish will win a gift certificate (sponsored by the HOA).


🧙‍♀️ Event Details

  • Date: Friday, October 31, 2015.
  • Time: 6:00 PM – 8:30 PM
  • Start Location: 9238 Baymeadows Circle West – let your host know you are a resident by stating “I am a Linkside resident participating in the scavenger hunt!” This will let them know to give you the clue for the next location!
  • Ages: All ages welcome (family-friendly clues!)
  • Prizes: Gift certificates for the top 4 finishers – 1 prize per family!
  • Cost: Free to participate!

🕷️ Want to Host a Stop?

We’re looking for 5–6 homes to participate as clue locations. Each home will hand out candy and the next clue (we’ll provide everything you need). If you’d like to host, email linksideatbaymeadows@gmail.com (or simply reply to this email) by October 20th.

Come for the candy, stay for the clues — and may the fastest ghosts win! 👻


RESIDENT EVENT:🎅 HOA Christmas Progressive Dinner

“Homes for the Holidays: A Progressive Christmas Dinner”

Date: Saturday, December 14, 2025
Time: 5:30 PM – 9:30 PM


🎄 Event Overview

Celebrate the season with neighbors and friends as we move from home to home enjoying each course of a festive meal! Each participating household will host one course — appetizers, soup/salad, main course, and dessert — allowing everyone to enjoy great food, conversation, and holiday décor.


🍽️ Progressive Dinner Schedule

TimeCourseHost HomeNotes
5:30 PM – 6:15 PMAppetizers & Welcome Drinks9217 Augusta Ct
Kofoed Family
Kick off the evening with cocktails or mocktails and light bites
6:20 PM – 6:50 PMSoup or Salad[Home #2 Name/Address]A cozy pause between homes — light and festive fare
7:00 PM – 8:00 PMMain Course[Home #3 Name/Address]Entrée and side dishes — heart of the evening
8:10 PM – 9:30 PMDesserts & Coffee[Home #4 Name/Address]Sweet treats, caroling, and holiday cheer to close the night

🎁 Participation Details

  • Hosts Needed: 4 homes — one per course.
  • Guest Limit: 20 residents total
  • Sign-Up Deadline: December 1, 2025
  • RSVP Contact: Erin Kofoed – erindawnkofoed@gmail.com

HOST PERKS: The resident that sponsors the main course will receive funding (such as ham or turkey meat platter for 20). We understand the main course is the most expensive and have funds set aside for this host! All hosts will receive $25 for plates, silverware, and cups, and each host will also receive a gift (poinsettia, or bottle of wine) sponsored by the HOA to thank you for opening your home to your neighbors. When you sign up let us know your preference!


🎶 Extras

  • Ugly Sweater Contest: $25 gift certificate for funniest, most creative, or best DIY sweater.
  • Secret Santa Exchange: Bring a wrapped $10–$15 gift for the final stop.

🏡 Logistics

  • We will provide walking/driving route map prior to the event.
  • HOA will supply disposable plates, cups, and utensils for easy cleanup.
  • Each host receives a small HOA gift (like a poinsettia or wine bottle).

REPLY TO THIS EMAIL TO RSVP. The email will go directly to the President. Please let us know if you are willing to host, or just wish to attend. Limited to 20 total participants. First come, first served.


🦔 Neighborhood Notice: Armadillos in the Area!

Attention Jacksonville Residents,

We’ve recently received several reports of armadillos digging in yards throughout our neighborhood. While these little armored visitors might look harmless (and even a bit cute), their digging can cause damage to lawns, flower beds, and irrigation systems.

🌿 Why They’re Here

Armadillos are common in Florida and tend to move into residential areas during warmer months when they can easily find grubs, insects, and worms in moist soil. Heavy rains and freshly watered lawns make our yards especially attractive!

🕳️ What to Look For

  • Small cone-shaped holes (about 3–5 inches wide) in your lawn or flower beds
  • Burrows near foundations, shrubs, or fences
  • Uprooted plants or disturbed mulch

🛠️ How to Prevent Damage

  • Reduce watering to make your yard less appealing to insects (and therefore armadillos).
  • Secure trash cans and remove pet food left outdoors.
  • Use motion-activated lights or sprinklers — armadillos are nocturnal and dislike sudden movement or light.
  • Fill any burrows once you’re sure they’re unoccupied.
  • For persistent issues, contact a licensed wildlife removal service for safe, humane relocation.

⚠️ Please Note

Armadillos are generally not aggressive, but they can carry diseases (including leprosy in rare cases). Do not attempt to handle or trap them yourself.

Let’s all work together to keep our lawns beautiful and our wildlife encounters safe and respectful!

If you notice increased activity or damage, please notify the HOA so we can coordinate with animal control if needed.


🏡 Thinking About Home Improvements? Don’t Forget Your ARC Request!

As our neighborhood continues to grow and homeowners take pride in maintaining and improving their properties, we want to remind everyone about an important part of our community guidelines — submitting an ARC request before making any exterior changes to your home or yard.

🧱 What Is an ARC Request?

ARC stands for Architectural Review Committee. This committee ensures that all exterior modifications — such as painting, fencing, roofing, landscaping, patios, sheds, driveways, and other visible updates — are consistent with the community’s standards and aesthetic guidelines.

Submitting an ARC request allows the HOA to:

  • Maintain a uniform and attractive appearance throughout the neighborhood
  • Protect property values by ensuring improvements meet quality and design standards
  • Prevent future violations or costly rework for unapproved changes

✍️ Why It Matters

Even small updates can affect the overall look of our community. By taking a few minutes to submit your ARC form and receive approval before starting work, you’re helping keep our neighborhood beautiful and harmonious — and avoiding potential fines or delays.

📄 How to Submit

  1. Download the ARC Request Form from our HOA website.
  2. Attach all required details — including paint color samples, materials, dimensions, photos, or drawings. We also require proof of workers comp, and general liability insurance for damages.
  3. Submit the form via email to baymeadowsatlinkside@gmail.com. Or mail to our PO BOX.
  4. Wait for written/email approval before scheduling work.

(Please allow up to 31 days for review, though most requests are processed much sooner.)

🌟 Thank You!

We appreciate your cooperation and commitment to preserving the look and feel of our community. Every homeowner’s attention to these details helps keep our neighborhood a place we’re all proud to call home.


🌿 Keep Our Neighborhood Clean & Tidy!

Dear Residents,

As a friendly reminder, please help keep our community looking beautiful by following our trash and yard debris guidelines. We’ve noticed an increase in large furniture items, plant clippings, palm fronds, and yard waste being left along the roads and sidewalks days (and sometimes weeks) before collection. Let’s all do our part to maintain a neat and welcoming neighborhood!

🗑️ Yard Waste & Trash Guidelines

  • Do not place plant or yard debris on the road more than 24 hours before pickup.
    Early placement not only creates an eyesore but can also block drainage and cause safety issues.
  • Use your black trash bin for bagged yard debris, small clippings, and leaves.
  • Store all bins and plant waste where it is not visible (not on the street or sidewalk) until collection day.
  • Large item pickup (for bulk items such as furniture or branches that don’t fit in your bin) is provided by the City of Jacksonville every other Wednesday. Do not leave these items out longer than 24 hours.

If you’re unsure of your next bulk pickup date, visit http://www.coj.net or call (904) 630-CITY (2489) for confirmation.

🌼 Let’s Work Together

Following these simple steps helps:

  • Keep our streets clean and safe
  • Prevent pests and drainage issues
  • Maintain the curb appeal and value of our homes

Thank you for doing your part to keep Linkside at Baymeadows looking its best!

Subject: Please Do Not Dump Yard Waste on Neighboring Properties / Proper Disposal Required

Dear Neighbors,

We hope you’re enjoying the beauty of our community. To maintain property values, curb appeal, and neighborly goodwill, we want to remind everyone of our shared responsibility when it comes to disposing of yard waste, landscaping debris, and bulk items.

Our Request to Homeowners & Landscapers

  1. Do not dump or leave yard waste or debris on adjacent lots, vacant parcels, or common areas.
  2. If your landscaper is doing work on your lot, ask them specifically to haul off or properly dispose of all debris (trimmings, roots, brush, stumps, etc.).
  3. If bulk trash or yard waste is placed for scheduled pickup but is not collected within 24 hours, you (or your landscaper) must remove it (store it back on your property or take to an approved dump).
  4. For large jobs or excess debris beyond what bulk pickup can handle, please use a landfill, dump yard, or approved disposal facility (see below).

Where to Dispose Debris / Yard Waste in Our Area

Here are some nearby facilities you (or your landscaper) can use:

  • Trail Ridge Landfill
    Address: 5110 US Highway 301, Baldwin, FL 32234 Jacksonville+2WM Solutions+2
    Hours: Monday–Friday 6:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m.; Saturday 6:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.; Sunday closed WM Solutions+1
    Accepts non-hazardous waste, construction & demolition debris, etc. WM Solutions+1
  • Old Kings Road Landfill (WM / Waste Industries)
    Address: 8540 Old Kings Road, Jacksonville, FL 32219 WM Solutions+1
    Accepts nonhazardous materials, yard waste, construction debris (check their rules) WM Solutions
  • Jones Road Landfill (WM)
    Address: 3400 Jones Rd, Jacksonville, FL 32220 MapQuest
  • Shaw’s Land Clearing Dump Yard
    Address: 2762 W. Beaver Street, Jacksonville, FL 32254 shawslandclearing.com
    They accept stumps, tree trunks, truckloads of debris (with fees) shawslandclearing.com

You may want to call ahead to confirm hours, rates, and accepted material types.

How You Can Help

  • Please inform your landscapers of this policy before work begins.
  • Mark bulk items with your address and name so HOA or city staff can easily attribute responsibility.
  • Report any dumping on your lot or common areas to the HOA (with photos if possible).
  • Encourage neighbors to use the approved disposal sites above.

Thank you for your cooperation in keeping our community clean, attractive, and respectful to one another. Let’s all do our part.


CANASTA CLUB

There has been a request to start a neighborhood canasta club. A canasta club is a group for people who enjoy the classic card game Canasta. These clubs offer opportunities for players of all skill levels to play, learn new variations, and socialize with other enthusiasts. These will be informal social gatherings, with people in our community

What to expect

  • Varying skill levels: Clubs are often open to both beginners and experienced players, with more advanced players helping to teach the game to newcomers. 
  • Social focus: While competitive play is common, these clubs are also a great way to meet new people and build friendships centered around a shared interest. 
  • Rule variations: Since there are many versions of Canasta, clubs often play specific variations, such as Triple Play or Samba, which may use multiple decks of cards. 

Please reply to this email if you are interested in joining or hosting. The reply will go only to our President, who will forward to all interested parties.

Published by Erin Kofoed

I love graphics and web design!

2 thoughts on “LINKSIDE AT BAYMEADOWS NEWSLETTER – FALL 2025

  1. Thank you all so much for the newsletter with such informative articles. It sounds as if you have some very creative and energetic new members on the board. All the activities sound like so much fun for the entire community. Bless you all for your hard work. We appreciate your volunteer, enthusiastic, and community spirit. Billiiie and Lacy Harbis

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  2. Thank you all for serving.  I am so happy to see some interested activities for Linkside again.i am unable to participate but happy for the community.  i may be interested in Canasta depending onwhen they play.  i play Pennies from Heven in a couple of groups,THANKS AGAIN TO YOU ALL.LERLIENE CONNOLLY

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