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Clarification Regarding ACC Application Processing Fee Communication

Published: November 14, 2025

Recently, a communication was sent regarding the implementation of a processing fee forArchitectural Control Committee (ACC) applications. This message was distributed prematurely and without final review or Board presentation. We sincerely apologize for any confusion or concern this may have caused.

To clarify:

• Essex Association Management will be implementing a $25.00 processing fee per ACC application.
• This fee is charged by Essex—not by your Association or Board of Directors.
• The fee is intended solely to offset the administrative costs involved in processing ACC applications, which are not included in your Association’s standard management fees
• Historically, Essex has absorbed these costs; however, due to increased volume and associated expenses, this is no longer sustainable.

Implementation Timeline & Next Steps:

• The fee will not take effect until January 1, 2026.
• It will be presented and discussed during your Association’s next open Board meeting prior to implementation.
• No charges will be applied to applications submitted before this effective date.

Important Notes

• This is not a fee imposed by your Board of Directors and does not generate revenue for your Association.
• The fee applies to all Essex-managed communities as a company-wide policy.
• ACC application processing involves multiple steps, including administrative intake, coordination with the ACC or Board, documentation review, communication of decisions, and record archiving, none of which are included in the Association’s base management fee.
• Additionally, when applications are denied or non-compliant work proceeds without approval, compliance hearings must be facilitated. These require staff time to prepare notices, assemble documentation, coordinate Board schedules, host the hearing, record minutes, and issue formal decisions. This process is time-intensive and resource-dependent, further contributing to the need for a processing fee.
• All costs and processes remain subject to the Association’s governing documents and theTexas Property Code.

We appreciate you’re understanding and apologize again for the premature notification. Should you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office.

Shale Creek HOA