Correction: In the April 2026 issue of Tahoe Donner News + Life, the map printed on page 24 depicting the Defensible Space Inspection Cycle is colored incorrectly based on the key. The correct map is available at tahoedonner.com/ inspection-program and an updated version of the magazine is available online.
EDITORIAL + PRODUCTION TEAM
Lindsay Hogan Drew Deurlington Carlynne Fajkos Cynthia Cendreda Jesus Antonio Vazquez Camy Marotta
SENIOR MANAGEMENT
Annie Rosenfeld | General Manager arosenfeld@tahoedonner.com
Miah Cottrell | Director of Information Technology mcottrell@tahoedonner.com
John Groom | Director of Land Management + Open Space jgroom@tahoedonner.com
Jason Hajduk-Dorworth | Director of Administrative Services jhajduk@tahoedonner.com
Lindsay Hogan | Director of Communications + Member Relations lhogan@tahoedonner.com
Justin Malley | Director of Finance + Accounting jmalley@tahoedonner.com
Jon Mitchell | Director of Capital Projects + Facilities jmitchell@tahoedonner.com
Mike Peters | Director of Food + Beverage mpeters@tahoedonner.com
Miguel Sloane | Director of Operations msloane@tahoedonner.com
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
President | Benjamin Levine blevine@tahoedonner.com
Vice President | Denise Gauny dgauny@tahoedonner.com
Treasurer | Don Koenes dkoenes@tahoedonner.com
Secretary | Courtney Murrell cmurrell@tahoedonner.com
Vice Treasurer | Jay Wertheim jwertheim@tahoedonner.com
POSTMASTER: Periodical postage paid at Truckee, California and additional mailing offices. Send address changes to Tahoe Donner News + Life, 11509 Northwoods Blvd., Truckee, CA 96161; (530) 587-9400, Fax (530) 579-3224
EMAIL: comdep@tahoedonner.com
ADVERTISING SALES: CC Media + Publishing is the exclusive advertising representative: (775) 742-9850 | laura@ccmpublishing.com
PUBLISHING INFORMATION
Tahoe Donner Association holds the exclusive service mark right to “Tahoe Donner.” Any unauthorized use of such will be regarded as an infringement of that service mark right and is prohibited. The inclusion of advertising in this publication does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation by Tahoe Donner Association or its board of directors of the products, services or views contained therein.
Tahoe Donner News + Life (ISSN 1550-6061) is the official monthly publication of Tahoe Donner Association, which is located at 11509 Northwoods Blvd., Truckee, CA 96161. Each membership parcel receives one subscription to a domestic address. Cost to produce and distribute this publication is offset by advertising revenues. Periodicals Postage Paid at Truckee, CA, and additional mailing offices. Member letters to Tahoe Donner are published in the Member Portal; details available at tahoedonner.com/member-letters
Tahoe Donner News + Life is created largely in-house and is printed on certified recycled paper stock using soybased inks.
General Manager’s Welcome
On a warm late March afternoon, a hike on the Donner Lake Rim Trail reminded me both of what makes Tahoe Donner special and of the long-term stewardship required to keep it that way.
This beloved trail did not happen by accident. It reflects years of vision, collaboration and commitment. It exists because of deliberate choices made over decades, including a long-standing partnership with the Truckee Donner Land Trust to conserve land, secure trail easements and support long-term stewardship.
Along the trail, members can also see stewardship at work through forest thinning and brush removal, all of which are wildfire fuel reduction efforts. In addition to promoting forest health, these efforts help reduce wildfire hazard and risk to Tahoe Donner itself. Supported by your assessment dollars and grants from the Truckee Fire Protection District and the Truckee Tahoe Community Foundation, this work is part of a broader effort to reduce wildfire risk, slow potential fire spread and create safer, more effective conditions for emergency response.
Stewardship at Tahoe Donner extends beyond how we care for our properties and open spaces. It also includes listening carefully to members so we can better understand your priorities and perspectives as we plan for Tahoe Donner’s future.
Over the winter, the board, staff and Long-Range Planning Committee reviewed feedback from the 2025 Member Survey, including more than 3,500 open-ended responses. Together, those comments filled hundreds of pages, and every response was read. Your feedback is already helping to shape priorities, identify areas for improvement and guide both near-term adjustments and longer-term planning.
Responsible stewardship also requires adaptability in Tahoe Donner’s mountain environment, where conditions can
change rapidly, posing challenges for the community. This winter’s snowfall fell short of what many of us had hoped for, requiring operational and financial adjustments as we continue to deliver the programs, services and experiences that matter most to you. It also calls for responsible action to prepare for the increased wildfire risk that can come with an early spring and a longer dry season.
Stewardship also shapes how we plan for Tahoe Donner’s financial future.
Development of the 2027 Annual Budget is now beginning, with the board discussing strategic drivers this spring to help set direction and priorities. Over the summer, management will develop the draft budget with input from committees and review by the Finance Committee, followed by board consideration in the fall.
This phased approach helps align planning from strategy to execution. It also supports the goals of our updated Financial and Capital Policies by strengthening long-term planning, reinforcing disciplined funding practices and supporting responsible reinvestment while maintaining balance in assessments and long-term financial sustainability.
The common thread across these efforts is stewardship. Sustaining what makes Tahoe Donner special requires care for the land, attention to member priorities, thoughtful response to changing conditions and responsible planning for the future. That work is ongoing, and it remains essential to preserving and strengthening this community for the years ahead.
As we move into spring, I encourage you to get outside, enjoy Tahoe Donner’s trails and amenities and take in the places that make this community so special.
Annie Rosenfeld
General Manager
gm@tahoedonner.com
Net Gains
Member Input Initiates
Beneficial Tennis + Pickleball Center Improvement Project
BY CYNTHIA CENDREDA
In an article published in February, Forbes Magazine (forbes.com) called pickleball the fastest-growing sport in America, and increasingly around the world, attracting players of all ages from energetic seniors to “Gen Z.” What was once considered a quirky pastime is gaining legitimacy as a fun, challenging and fast-paced racket sport, attracting a wide demographic and creating a robust community of players. Played with a lightweight “paddle” and a hollow, perforated plastic ball, pickleball offers opportunities for new players to enjoy casual recreation while improving movement, coordination and fitness. But once basic strokes are mastered, pickleball transforms into an exciting, rapid-fire rally akin to tennis or ping-pong, keeping players on their toes.
A Growing Community + Evolving Needs in Tahoe Donner
Data from CourtReserve – the Tennis + Pickleball Center’s reservation system –reported that there were 1,550 tennis players and 2,527 pickleball players in July 2025. This marks a 3% increase for tennis players from the same period last year, and a significant 25% increase for pickleball players.
With its growing popularity in Tahoe Donner, members engaged with the association to improve pickleball facilities and enhance the overall experience at the Tennis + Pickleball Center. They expressed a strong interest in improvements that would support both sports equally.
According to Tahoe Donner General Manager Annie Rosenfeld, “It became really clear in the 2023 Member Usage and Satisfaction Survey that the community wanted us to improve the Tennis + Pickleball Center to meet the evolving needs of our racket sports community. That year, the Long-Range Planning Committee spoke with hundreds of members about the Northwoods Campus, and in 2025, a user survey was conducted to learn more. This project is directly coming from member input.”
In the 2025 Tennis + Pickleball Participant Survey, a total of 432 players responded with the following breakdown: 130 tennis players, 203 pickleball players and 99 who play both (30%, 43% and 27%, respectively). A summary of their responses suggested the following:
• The Tennis + Pickleball Center is a valued summer amenity that offers well-maintained courts, great programming for kids and adults, and nice on-site amenities.
• The current setup, with hybrid courts striped for both tennis and pickleball, was confusing and disruptive.
• Courts should be separated and individually accessed with proper fencing to avoid interruptions, ball interference and injuries.
• Noise attenuation would be a welcoming addition for the surrounding residents and additional buffer for the tennis community.
Following the 2023 and 2025 surveys, two court improvement options were presented to the board in June of 2025, followed by a focus group on Aug. 13 and a Member Town Hall on Aug. 26, 2025. Tahoe Donner staff determined that a phased approach was necessary in order to allow the membership to continue enjoying the center through construction. Much of the
work is maintenance-oriented, involving replacing aging court surfaces and fencing. This maintenance was previously planned and funded by the association's Repair and Replacement Fund.
This project is just the start of exciting projects at the Tennis + Pickleball Center. The planning for a redevelopment project, including replacement of the aging tennis center building (pro shop), is on the TenYear Capital Plan, with construction currently slated to start in 2029.
A Multi-Phased
Approach to Court Improvements
The board directed staff to proceed with requests for proposals for design-build services, and at the Dec. 19, 2025, regular board meeting, the board approved advancing Phase I of the improvement project from conceptual design through preparation of final construction documents.
At the time of press, the project team was well underway on Phase I design and would seek board approval for the construction contract in late spring. Pending permitting, work is slated to begin during the 2026 construction season. The long-term plan would be carried out in three phases over the next several years:
Phase I
• Reconstruct tennis courts 7, 8 and 9 (orange) with post-tension slab and convert to ten dedicated pickleball courts
• Reconstruct pickleball courts 9 and 10 (yellow) with post-tension slab
• New fencing, nets and full surround sound attenuation for all dedicated pickleball courts
• Resurface and restripe hybrid courts 10 and 11 (red) to return to dedicated tennis courts
Reconstruct tennis courts 4-6 with posttension slab with new surface treatment, new fencing and dedicated striping
Phase III
Reconstruct tennis courts 1-3 with posttension slab with new surface treatment, new fencing and dedicated striping
Current State
Court Improvement Benefits
Phase I will immediately address the current pickleball demand, as well as provide a safer and more enhanced experience, including constructing 12 dedicated, regulation-sized courts with individual court access, new fencing and nets. All pickleball courts will also be situated in the northern portion of the Tennis + Pickleball Center to minimize sound disturbance, which will be further enhanced by full surround sound attenuation with PickleGlassTM, separating court activities for a more enjoyable experience for all.
The existing hybrid tennis/pickleball courts (10 and 11) will be reconstructed as dedicated tennis courts, including resurfacing and restriping in Phase I. In Phases II and III, the remaining tennis courts will also undergo resurfacing and restriping to enhance the court experience.
Open During Construction: What to Expect This Season
Future State
Pending board of director approval and permitting, construction is anticipated to begin in 2026. While staff aim to minimize impacts to the Tennis + Pickleball Center and the surrounding residential neighborhood, court availability may be limited, and certain areas will be subject to closures during portions of the 2026 season.
The Tennis + Pickleball Center is scheduled to open May 8 with a full calendar of programming for kids and adults – including camps, lessons, live ball, clinics and weekly open-play opportunities – as well as festive community events throughout the summer. To learn more about all of the center’s seasonal offerings, visit the website at tahoedonner.com/tennis
Tahoe Donner looks forward to providing a revitalized experience at the Tennis + Pickleball Center, inspired by the invaluable input of its engaged racket sports community. In the meantime, staff advise all visitors to plan accordingly, utilize advanced booking on courtreserve.com and adhere to all safety and access signage. To review project updates and more, visit the website at tahoedonner.com/ pickleball-court-improvements.
COMMUNITY CONNECTIONS
Join us on May 21 for Build a Vitality Bowl with Tammy Long of Starting from Scratch Catering! Build your own flavor-packed vitality bowl that you'll enjoy while sipping wine and learning simple ways to elevate everyday ingredients for easy, nutritious go-to meals. Register on Truckee.com.
LAST
Buzz The
LOCAL ACTIVITIES, CLUBS, DINING + MORE
Whiplash
There is a lesser-known season in the Sierras that only the most local and longterm inhabitants are aware of. Year after year, around March or April, when Mother Nature gives us a peek of sunshine and daffodil blooms, they sit and watch us eager beavers pull out and dust off the patio furniture and unfurl the shrubs with unabashed optimism, believing that springtime has indeed arrived. “Fools!” They call us, “Just you wait!”
And, almost like clockwork, Mother Nature unveils her trick hand, a straight flush of winter storms that catch you wildly unprepared and unenthused. After all, we were so intent on getting a jump on our defensible space. Fool’s Spring, they call it, that enticing warm spell lasting several weeks in late winter that manages to dupe even the chickadees and marmots. Well, color me a fool then. While physically, I’m back to shoveling, mentally, I’m lakeside at the Beach Club Marina, toes in the sand with a cocktail in hand.
Fair Weather on the Fairways
Golf season is just around the corner. With an anticipated opening of May 22, purchase a Golf Course season pass or multi-play pack and play for the lowest rates while maximizing your time on the fairways. Looking for fairway friends? Consider joining one of Tahoe Donner’s golf clubs, with options for men and women of all levels interested in playing 9- or 18-hole golf. To purchase a season pass, visit
tahoedonner.com/season-passes-packages And to learn more about Tahoe Donner’s chartered golf clubs, visit tahoedonner.com/clubs.
Looking Ahead
Don’t miss the Wild & Scenic Film Festival – On Tour on Saturday, May 2, from 5:30 to 8:30PM at the Alder Creek Adventure Center. Hosted by Mountain Area Preservation (MAP), this event will showcase unique films inspired by the outdoors. Learn more and purchase tickets online at tahoedonner.com/10th-annualwild-scenic-film-festival. Registration is still open for all summer camps and day programs, pending availability. Learn more about fun and exciting offerings for kids online at tahoedonner.com/summercamps
2026/27 ski season pass pricing goes up May 15. Purchase before then to lock in the best deal on unlimited and unrestricted skiing at Tahoe Donner ski areas. Learn more at tahoedonner.com/skiseasonpasses Opening dates for summer amenities are as follows and, as always, conditions permitting:
• Tennis + Pickleball Center – May 8
• Campground – May 16
• Trout Creek Rec + Kiddie Pools – May 16
• Beach Club Marina – May 22
• Golf Course – May 22
• Bikeworks – May 22
• Recreation Hut – June 13
• Equestrian Center – June 15
• Northwoods Pool – June 19
Summer Dining Openings:
• Alder Creek Cafe – May 20
• The Lodge Pavilion – May 22
See the individual amenity pages on tahoedonner.com for the most up-todate information.
The Member Services office is currently open Monday to Saturday from 8AM-5PM and closed on Sundays. Seven-day-a-week operations will resume on Monday, May 18. After-hours inquiries can be sent via email to info@tahoedonner.com
BOGO Deals Continue in May + More!
Pizza on the Hill: Through May 19, members with active Member ID Cards can enjoy an exclusive BOGO deal of 50% off a second pizza! Plus, sip and savor happy hour pricing from 4-6PM, featuring $7 draft beer and house wine and 25% off appetizers. Visit tahoedonner.com/pizza for hours, menu and more.
The Lodge Restaurant & Pub: Through May 21, TD members with an active Member ID Card can take advantage of a remarkable BOGO deal of 50% off a second entrée (of equal or lesser value).
Cinco de Mayo: In celebration of Cinco de Mayo, enjoy Mexicaninspired specials and $5 Mexican beers May 1-5 at Pizza on the Hill, and Mexican-inspired specials, $7 margaritas and $5 select beers May 2-3 at The Lodge Restaurant & Pub. Mother’s Day: On Sunday, May 10, moms can stop by The Lodge Restaurant & Pub and enjoy a complimentary craft cocktail, glass of wine, beer or dessert with dinner!
Alder Creek Cafe Edi-Bōls: Alder Creek Cafe opens for summer beginning Wednesday, May 20, and the popular EdiBōl dinner creations return on Thursday evenings starting May 28. Enjoy fresh and healthy options and other unique menu items following all your trail adventures this summer.
1
Cinco de Mayo Specials at Pizza on the Hill tahoedonner.com/pizza-specials
2
Wild & Scenic Film Festival –On Tour at Alder Creek Adventure Center
tahoedonner.com/ 10th-annual-wild-scenic
Cinco de Mayo Specials at The Lodge Restaurant & Pub tahoedonner.com/the-lodge/specials
Cinco de Mayo Specials at Pizza on the Hill tahoedonner.com/pizza-specials
3
Cinco de Mayo Specials at The Lodge Restaurant & Pub tahoedonner.com/the-lodge/specials
Cinco de Mayo Specials at Pizza on the Hill tahoedonner.com/pizza-specials
4-5
Cinco de Mayo Specials at Pizza on the Hill tahoedonner.com/pizza-specials
6
Quilt Club Meeting at Northwoods Clubhouse
See page 10
North Tahoe Donner Fuels Reduction Project Tour and Trail Update tahoedonner.com/events
9
Summer Hiring Fair at Pizza on the Hill tahoedonner.com/summer-hiring
10
Mother’s Day Specials at The Lodge Restaurant & Pub tahoedonner.com/the-lodge/specials
20
Quilt Club Meeting at Northwoods Clubhouse
See page 10
22
Regular Board Meeting at Northwoods Clubhouse tahoedonner.com/board-meetings
23
2026 Community Yard Sale Throughout Tahoe Donner tahoedonner.com/ tahoe-donner-yard-sale
29
Town of Truckee’s Green Waste Drop-Off Day at Downhill Ski Resort Parking Lot 5 tahoedonner.com/events
Tuesdays 5, 12, 19, 26
American Mah Jongg Club at Pizza on the Hill
See page 10
Wednesdays 6, 13, 20, 27
No Corkage Wednesdays at The Lodge Restaurant & Pub tahoedonner.com/the-lodge/specials
Fridays 1, 8, 15, 22, 29
Free Family Movie Night at Northwoods Clubhouse tahoedonner.com/ family-movie-night
All amenities are weather and conditions permitting. Check the website or call for most up-to-date information.
The Buzz: Clubs
4-Wheelers Club
May brings the official start of the TD4WD local trail run schedule. For those wanting a challenging run, El Dorado Canyon is for you. This run has both spectacular scenery and challenging terrain to help build your 4WD skills. For those just getting into taking their 4WD vehicle off-highway, we have the historic Sunrise Pass Road run. The dirt road starts south of Carson City, Nevada, and climbs over the Pine Nut Mountains. The pinion pine nuts were vital to the local Washoe People. Then, we’ll proceed to the former town site of Como, Nevada, founded in 1863. Como is also the resting place of Chief Truckee. After the run, you can visit the Dayton Museum or the Dayton State Park to learn more about the rich history of the area.
If you want to attend these runs or join, sign up at TD4wheelers.org
American Mah Jongg Club
The 2026 card is here! We are all super excited to learn and play with it. The best way to learn the card is to practice online. A great Mah Jongg website is ilovemahj.com You can play with “bots” or practice in the “exercise room.” If you need to purchase a 2026 card, you can buy one from the National Mah Jongg League for $14-$15. The new card looks like a lot of fun. There are many new, interesting patterns. Many lines have the distinct 3-3-4-4 pattern versus the 3-4-3-4 pattern from 2025. Several hands have “6s” in them, so we'll have to hold on to those.
American Mah Jongg Club meets every Tuesday from 12-3PM at Pizza on the Hill. We play using the National Mah Jongg League’s card and rules. Email the club members at tdmahjongg@googlegroups.com on Monday to coordinate with other players. If you are not a member yet, email Dori Schick at doridans@hotmail.com or Deb Bloomberg at debbala@comcast.net to add your name to the club roster.
Equestrian Club
Hello, Tahoe Donner horse lovers! The Equestrian Club is looking forward to welcoming the Tahoe Donner herd back to their summer home at the Equestrian Center. The TD herd horses have been enjoying their winter home in the foothills. They will be returning to their summer home at the Equestrian Center very soon. Check for Tahoe Donner Equestrian Center’s opening day and this summer’s activities at tahoedonner.com/equestrian It is sure to be a fun summer season for all!
Gardening Club
The Tahoe Donner Gardening Club is in full swing! For more information or to sign up, check out the website at tahoedonnergardeningclub.com or contact Kate Fanter directly. We meet the last Sunday of each month during the growing season and feature guest speakers and local garden tours. Here is what we are doing in our gardens this month: As the snow recedes, continue cleanup –remove winter debris, prune damaged branches, and gently rake beds. Refresh
mulch if appropriate. It’s time to think about deterring garden pests: put up your wasp traps, and stay vigilant to manage voles before they reproduce! If freezing nights are behind us, plant cold-hardy annuals and perennials, but keep frost protection handy since late freezes are still common at Tahoe Donner’s elevation. Ensure your irrigation systems are working, and be sure plants are getting watered a few times per week if there is no natural precipitation. Kick the growing season off with a slow- release fertilizer.
LGBTQ+ Club
Inaugural
Tahoe Donner LGBTQ+
Club Meeting
We’re excited to invite you to the firstever Tahoe Donner LGBTQ+ Club meeting, a new opportunity to build connection, visibility and community among LGBTQ+ neighbors, friends and allies.
Join us on Thursday, May 21, at 6PM at Pizza on the Hill. We’ll gather at the picnic tables outside, weather permitting. If the weather doesn’t cooperate, we’ll move inside and continue as planned. The casual setting is meant to make it easy to relax, connect and get to know one another.
As this is our inaugural meeting, there will be no formal agenda. The evening will focus on introductions, greetings, open conversation and sign-ups for anyone interested in staying involved or helping shape the club’s future. Whether you’re eager to help organize, want to meet others in the community or simply want to listen and learn, you are welcome.
This gathering marks the beginning of what we hope will grow into a supportive and inclusive LGBTQ+ community within Tahoe Donner. We look forward to meeting you.
Men’s 9-Holers Golf Club
Put your skis away, the snow is melting off the course. Let’s knock the dust off our clubs and get ready! Complete an application form and pay $25; the form and payment instructions can be requested via the club email at mtd9gc@gmail.com. We will be playing at 8:30 every Thursday morning, and plan to include some scrambles with small prizes on our play days. We also discussed using a small portion of each member’s dues to create a hole-in-one pot. Prior to June 22, the pre-season green fees for TD property owners will be $55, including a cart. After that, the fees will
be $60. Non-TD residents’ green fees, including a cart, will be $70 pre-season and $85 during the regular season. There will not be a walking rate. Any of the play packages will be accepted for our morning play. We will only have 16 spots (4 foursomes), so advance sign-ups are highly recommended to secure your place. I expect we will have more members than last year, so it may be more important to sign up with the Pro Shop in advance. Feel free to contact us if you would like to discuss any aspect of our club. All are welcome! Need more information? Contact Raymond Cadei at raytoni110@gmail.com or Michael Eyton-Lloyd at hmsmike1@aol.com
Men’s Golf Club
The exceptionally warm weather we have been experiencing brings with it expectations for exceptional golf course conditions at Tahoe Donner. Our maintenance crew has been hard at work preparing the course for what we expect –weather permitting – will be a late May
Opening Day. Pictured below is the crew readying the practice putting green.
The TD Men’s Golf Club welcomes all new members! We have a full schedule of over 30 golf and social events set for the upcoming season, beginning with our annual Welcome Event on Sunday, May 24 at 4PM. The first weekly Wednesday game will be on June 3 at 9AM. To join the club and to view our 2026 Calendar of Events, visit the Club’s website at tdgolfclub.com. For more information about the Men’s Golf Club and any membership inquiries, visit tdgolfclub.com or contact Membership Chair Dave Janiszewski at janiszewski.tdgolf@gmail.com
Quilt Club
The month of May is one of my favorites, but up in the mountains, it sometimes
means another big snowfall to cover the budding flowers. That’s okay, we need the water this year, and I will take whatever comes from the sky, be it rain or snow. I have completed yet another quilt! The sewing room is looking better as projects get done. I am happy with this lattice one, as it makes me think of climbing vines and summer days. I had never worked with a Jelly Roll (precut fabric strips) before, and since it was given to me, I had to find something to do with it. I have to admit I like the design and may actually make another one in different colors to reduce my stash.
If you would like to know what we do, contact me at odette.turmel@gmail.com, or come join us. We meet on the first and third Wednesdays of the month, in the Meadow room of the Northwoods Clubhouse. Please note the time changes for May: on May 6, we will meet from 1-3PM, and on May 20, we will start our summer hours from 3-5PM. Happy Mother’s Day, and have a good month!
Women’s 9-Holers Golf Club
Part of what we strive to do in the 9-holers club is to make members feel welcome. Playing for the first time can be intimidating, especially if you are new to golf. This year’s board is here to help, from left to right:
• Anouk Ben-T is our secretary. She runs the website and checks club emails from members.
• Deb Phelps, our treasurer, manages our finances and is knowledgeable about rules and golf etiquette.
• Cathy Pelligrini, our Vice President, can help with introductions to other players and recommendations on clinics.
• Wendy Lockhart, this year's President, oversees events and can help with the new handicap system and scoring.
• Karen Juarez is our member at large. Her job is to represent the membership to the board. If you have any sensitive questions or concerns, please bring those to her attention.
Please join us this summer. Visit td9holers.com for more information.
4-Wheelers
Tim West | club@td4wheelers.org
American Mah Jongg
Dori Schick | doridans@hotmail.com
Equestrian
Susan Terrell | terrellsf@earthlink.net
Gardening
Kate Fanter | tdgardeningclub@gmail.com
Hiking
Robin Reese | rbtahoe@sbcglobal.net
Junior Golf
Molly Springmann | mspringmann@tahoedonner.com
LGBTQ+
David Ligon | tdlgbtqclub@gmail.com
Men’s 9-Hole Golf
Raymond Cadei | raytoni110@gmail.com
Men’s Golf
Michael O'Connell | tdmensgolf@gmail.com
Mountain Bike
Dustin Young | dustinyoung75@gmail.com
Quilt
Odette Turmel | odette.turmel@gmail.com
Rowing
Val Brinker | vbrinker@dicksonrealty.com
Running
Scott Bauhs | info@tdrunclub.com
Senior Alpine Ski
Joe Rosenfeld | info@tdski.com
Women’s 9-Holers Golf
Wendy Lockhart | td9hole@gmail.com
Women’s Golf
Mary Liz Wardlaw | tdwgclub@gmail.com
CLUB CONTACTS
Get Verified, Get Rewarded: Your Mid-Season Update
Tahoe Donner’s member verification campaign is well underway—and the community is making great progress. As of this month, more than 7,700 members have already completed verification, bringing us over halfway to our goal of 12,500 verified members in 2026!
If you haven’t completed your verification yet, now is the time. With summer just around the corner, verifying early ensures your household is ready to enjoy seamless access to Tahoe Donner’s private amenities without delays.
Why Verification Matters
Member verification is a key part of the updated Amenity Access Rule. It ensures that Member ID Cards are issued only to qualifying property owners and their immediate family members, helping maintain fair access and a high-quality experience across all amenities.
Your Member ID Card unlocks access to private amenities like the Beach Club Marina, Trout Creek Recreation Center, Tennis + Pickleball Center and Northwoods Pool— plus member-exclusive pricing, programs and benefits throughout the year.
As of April 15, 2026 over 7,700 members have been verified!
How Do I Know If I’m Already Verified?
This has been one of the most common questions we’ve received—and the answer is simple:
• If you have a newly issued Member ID Card (see the card on the right) verification, you’re verified.
• If you’ve recently submitted documents and received confirmation, you’re verified.
• If you haven’t submitted documentation yet, your account is still unverified.
If you’re unsure, the easiest way to check is to contact Member Services at (530) 587-9400 ext. 0, or info@tahoedonner.com
Is the Online Verification Process Secure?
Absolutely. We understand that submitting personal documents online can feel sensitive and we want to reassure members that your information is protected.
Tahoe Donner uses Cognito Forms, a secure, encrypted platform that meets strict privacy and compliance standards to safely collect and protect your verification documents. The system is designed specifically for secure data handling, so you can complete the process with confidence.
Get Verified by June 30 + Get Rewarded
To encourage early completion, members who verify their household by June 30, 2026 will be entered into a drawing for exciting prizes, including:
• A VIP Day at the Beach Club Marina
• Tickets to Summer Concert on the Green
• $200 gift card to The Lodge Restaurant & Pub
• 2026/27 Ski Season Pass …and more!
Already verified? You’re automatically entered—thank you for getting ahead of the process.
How to Get Started
The process is straightforward and can be completed in just a few steps:
1. Log in to ShopTD (shop.tahoedonner.com) and select “My Account.”
2. Review who is listed as a member on your account.
3. Gather your verification documents.
4. Upload documents through the secure online form at tahoedonner.com/member-verification-form.
You can also download a Member Verification Checklist, view FAQs and access helpful resources on the Amenity Access web hub at tahoedonner.com/amenity-access
On-Demand Help: Watch the Step-by-Step Webinar
A recording of our April 6 Verification Information Session is now available on the Amenity Access web hub. To watch the recording, visit tahoedonner.com/amenity-access/members. In this session, our Member Services team walks through the entire process – from logging into ShopTD to uploading documents – so you can follow along step by step.
2025 ANNUAL REPORT
VISION STATEMENT
Tahoe Donner is a vibrant and desirable mountain community providing attractive and well-maintained facilities, events, programs and leading customer service to its members, guests and public, all while maintaining accessible and healthy natural surroundings.
Dear Members,
On behalf of the Tahoe Donner Association Board of Directors and your management team, we are pleased to present the 2025 Annual Report. This is a comprehensive report on Tahoe Donner Association’s 2025 financial results, including the 2025 Audited Financial Statements and Independent Auditors’ Report, covering both the Operating and Capital Reserve Funds. Operational and strategic actions bolstering Tahoe Donner’s long-term viability are also highlighted.
Capital Reinvestment
Tahoe Donner’s financial strength is protected by a disciplined approach to capital planning and secure reserve investments. Core facilities, many originally developed in the 1970s, require ongoing maintenance, refurbishment, and even replacement, to meet evolving member expectations, safety standards, and recreational trends. Through structured reserve funding and long-range planning, Tahoe Donner continues to modernize its assets while protecting long-term property values.
The successful construction and opening of the new Downhill Ski Lodge – ahead of schedule and under budget -- is a key example of this strategy to enhance member experience, improve operational efficiency, and align facilities with future needs.
Other key capital projects advanced in 2025 include:
EXPANSION OF THE BEACH CLUB MARINA DECK AND NEW BAR
ENVIRONMENTAL AND RECREATIONAL ACCESS IMPROVEMENT TO EUER VALLEY AT COYOTE CROSSING
EXPANSION AND IMPROVEMENT OF THE GLACIER WAY PARKING LOT
REPLACEMENT AND MAJOR UPGRADES TO THE TROUT CREEK POOL MECHANICAL ROOM AND LAP POOL DECK
These investments reflect deliberate prioritization to enhance member experience while advancing Tahoe Donner’s leadership in environmental stewardship, forest health, wildfire risk reduction, and long-term community resilience. Most notably, several of these projects leveraged $1.6 million in external funding, amplifying the impact of member assessments.
At year-end, cash and investments totaled $26.3 million, including $14.8 million in reserve accounts to support the completion of current projects and future improvements. This disciplined approach reinforces the quality of amenities, protects long-term property values, and supports the overall strength of the community.
TAHOE DONNER FINANCIAL POSITION AT A GLANCE
Tahoe Donner’s financial position remains strong, grounded in disciplined financial management and ongoing reinvestment in our physical assets through maintenance and improvements, with a clear focus on member value.
Operating Revenues
$19.2 million
inclusive of a one-time $2.0 million Employee Retention Tax credit
Operating Expenses
$25.8 million including tax provisions
Net Operating Results Compared to Budget
$1.76 million
ahead of budget, inclusive of the abovementioned tax credit
Annual Assessments
$21.4 million
$3,300 PER PROPERTY contributing to both operating costs and reserve funds
Contributions to Reserve Accounts
$12.1 million
including Replacement Reserve ($6.1 million), Development ($5.8 million) and New Equipment ($0.1 million) Funds
Investment in Tahoe Donner
$34.1 million
invested in capital projects, including continuing reinvestment in amenities, supporting infrastructure and open space resiliency
Assets + Equity
$115.3 million in total assets and $100.8 million in member equity
$15,556 PER PROPERTY both increases over prior year
Together, these indicators reflect the Association’s scale, stability, and long-term financial sustainability.
2025 Operating Year
The variability of our mountain environment was quite evident in 2025, and demonstrates the strength and adaptability of Tahoe Donner’s diversified, year-round operating model:
WINTER
With winter operations split between the beginning and end of the fiscal year, 2025 was book-ended by the construction-related temporary operations on the one end and low snowfall on the other end. Despite the low snowfall, we had a successful opening of the new Downhill Ski lodge.
SUMMER
One of the strongest seasons in recent history, with the Golf Course, Beach Club Marina, and recreation exceeding expectations.
FALL
Extended outdoor activity, though dry conditions delayed the start of winter operations.
Taken together, this diversification across seasons and amenities is a key component of Tahoe Donner’s financial resilience despite weather-driven variability. Regarding the key operating results covered above, key cost pressures continue to impact operations, these include:
• Rising labor costs, driven by minimum wage increases and a competitive labor market; e.g., minimum wage increased by 3.24% in 2025 over 2024
• Increases in insurance and other operating expenses; e.g., insurance costs increased 10.0% and electricity costs increased 11.5% in 2025 over 2024
We are grateful for our dedicated staff and engaged member volunteers who continue to serve and strengthen Tahoe Donner. Your membership and participation make this community exceptional.
The following pages provide additional detail on Tahoe Donner’s 2025 financial performance, capital investments, and long-term planning. The Independent Auditors’ Report reviews the Association’s financial position and confirms that the financial statements are presented fairly and in accordance with accounting standards. Tahoe Donner is a community of 6,473 properties with approximately 25,000 members. We are a corporation with, in round figures, a $30 million budget and a $100 million balance sheet. The Board of Directors, Finance Committee, and management continuously monitor both operational and financial performance to proactively balance membership services with financial goals. Please contact our Director of Finance and Accounting, Justin Malley, at jmalley@tahoedonner.com or (530) 587-9418, anytime to discuss this report or any other financial aspects of your association.
Sincerely,
Annie Rosenfeld General Manager gm@tahoedonner.com
Don Koenes
Treasurer, Board of Directors dkoenes@tahoedonner.com
tahoedonner.com/financials
2025 COMMUNITY IMPACT BY THE NUMBERS
Here are highlights of a few ways that your ownership and experience were enhanced and enjoyed this past year.
Stewardship + Environmental Education
32 Stewardship events held
1,100 Adult and youth participants
Fire Resiliency
871 Acres of defensible space work completed 462 BY TAHOE DONNER FORESTRY 409 BY PROPERTY OWNERS
5,143 Consultation Visits with property owners
16,700 Yards of green waste removed
Recreation + Social Events
13 Active Clubs with 1,500 members and associate members
55 Music events
6,719 Downhill and Cross Country lessons, programs and race participants
8,003 Tennis + Pickleball lesson and clinic participants
14,270 Trout Creek Rec Center personal training, group fitness and kids club participants
ANNUAL BUDGET – SOURCE OF FUNDS
ANNUAL BUDGET – USE OF FUNDS DOLLARS IN THOUSANDS
OPERATING FUND
Actual Results
$30,000,000
$25,000,000
$20,000,000
$15,000,000
$10,000,000
$5,000,000
$0
Revenue finished the year $2,285,591 favorable to Budget, while total costs were unfavorable to Budget by $525,353.
NOTE: Each year is subject to volatility due to weather and other variables.
Net Operating Result (NOR) is defined as operating revenues less cost of goods sold and operating payroll and expenses. On the above graph, NOR is seen as the difference between operating revenues and operating costs.
FUND
Operating Fund Members’ Equity Accumulated Net Results
$5,000,000
$4,000,000
$3,000,000
$2,000,000
$1,000,000
$0
FUND ACCUMULATED NET RESULTS, CONTINGENCY
- $233,842 unfavorable results in 2022
- $ 0 transfers
- $233,842 (A) 2022 change in Operating Fund equity
Operating Fund Results 2025 Highlights Versus Budget
NOR = Net Operating Results. NOR is defined as the net result of operating revenues less cost of goods sold, operating payroll and expenses and any overhead allocation.
SUMMER AMENITIES
NOR $11,606
FAVORABLE $536,273
The golf course opened on schedule – one of the few in the area – and, with new tee sheet software, significantly outperformed budget and boosted summer revenue. The Beach Club Marina’s new deck and DJ increased visitation, while added programming at the Tennis + Pickleball Center and Day Camps also drove gains. These results were offset primarily by Trails and the Equestrian Center.
YEAR-ROUND AMENITIES
NOR ($1,022,585)
UNFAVORABLE ($240,590)
Alder Creek Cafe underperformed due to reduced demand and a midyear shift to a grab-and-go concept before returning to a full menu, while higher expenses further impacted results. In contrast, Pizza on the Hill delivered strong performance driven by demand, with modest cost pressures. At The Lodge Restaurant & Pub, new leadership implemented operational changes that improved cost control and reduced losses, including achieving positive NOR in August for the first time in several years. Trout Creek Recreation Center and Aquatics performed in line with expectations despite pool closures, with disciplined expense management driving improved overall results.
WINTER AMENITIES
NOR LOSS $1,245,123
FAVORABLE $46,357
The end of the 2024/25 and start of the 2025/26 winter season experienced poor snow conditions. Snowmaking and winter operations were delayed until after Christmas this year. Despite lower direct access, retail and lessons/rental activity, winter performance remained favorable to budget, supported by the opening of the Downhill Ski Lodge, and targeted expense reductions – primarily in payroll and utilities. Revenue exceeded budget, while expenses were below budget, contributing to favorable NOR performance overall. Year-over-year, NOR declined as anticipated due to prior lodge closure and construction impacts, though Cross Country Ski Center posted a year-over-year increase.
SUPPORT SERVICES
NOR LOSS ($6,493,228)
UNFAVORABLE ($48,255)
IT, Finance, and HR generated unbudgeted revenue, though expenses increased with the addition of a new controller and higher supplies and maintenance costs. Community Standards saw lower revenue due to reduced activity, but disciplined payroll management helped offset the impact. Forestry underperformed due to lower-than-expected grant revenue, with expense savings partially mitigating results. Communications exceeded expectations, driven by strong advertising activity despite modest cost increases. Additional expense pressure came from general property maintenance not tied to a specific amenity. Tahoe Donner also received one-time Employee Retention Tax credit funds during the year.
REPLACEMENT RESERVE FUND
CAPITAL FUNDS Replacement Reserve Fund
MEMBERS EQUITY (FUND
BALANCE)
AND PERCENT FUNDED
Members’ Equity YEAR-END FUND BALANCE + Percent Funded
$10,000,000 $15,000,000
The Replacement Reserve Fund (RRF) is used to account for financial resources designated for the repair, restoration, replacement or maintenance of, or litigation involving the repair, restoration, replacement or maintenance of major components that the association is obligated by state law and sound business practices to repair, restore, replace or maintain. A 30-year reserve
DEVELOPMENT FUND
funding and expenditure plan is produced every three years, and updated annually, to schedule and analyze the funding and expenditure needs. Over 2,300 individual items are tracked in this plan, with a current replacement value of $78.3 million.
2025 saw a favorable variance in expense to budget of $2.2 million, mostly due to contract
MEMBERS EQUITY (FUND BALANCE)
Development Fund
Members’ Equity YEAR-END FUND BALANCE
retainage pertaining to the Downhill Ski Lodge replacement project, to be paid out in 2026.
The year-end fund balance decreased by $5.7 million, or 30.0%, from 2024. The balance fluctuates each year due to the funding level from assessments, as well as expenditures each year, in accordance with the 30-year reserve study.
The Development Fund was established and authorized in the governing documents of the association to accumulate funds for use in the development of – and additions to – facilities identified by the Board as necessary due to new capacity requirements of the association or changing needs of the community.
The Development Fund includes funds accumulated for the specific purpose of replacing existing buildings, as only certain components of buildings are in the Replacement Reserve study.
The assessment contribution for 2025 was $5,838,646, or $902 per owner, reflecting
a 4% increase from 2024. The year-end fund balance decreased by $13.5 million. This decrease was primarily driven by the Downhill Ski Lodge replacement project.
New Equipment Fund
The New Equipment Fund is used to account for financial resources designated for the acquisition of new assets identified as necessary for the association to operate more efficiently or provide new services to members.
The year-end fund balance of $29,742 increased by $21,000, compared to 2024.
Fund
The Property Fund is used to account for the association’s investment in its fixed assets. Capital additions to fixed assets totaled $34.1 million ($13.6 million in 2024). Depreciation expense for the year totaled $3.2 million ($3.1 million in 2024).
Total gross fixed asset value of $135.2 million equates to $20,896 per owner and net book value of fixed assets and construction in progress of $85.3 million equates to $13,172 per owner (an increase of $4,353 from 2024).
CAPITAL INVESTMENT OVER THE 10 YEARS INCLUDES:
$51.0 million in Replacement Reserve Fund capital investments, including:
• $5.1 million per year with 10-year average, maintaining existing asset components (depreciation average is $3.1 million)
• $3.7 million per year for first 5 years average, maintaining existing asset components
• $6.4 million per year for second 5 years average, maintaining existing asset components
The increase from 2016-2020 average to the 20212025 average is due to the overall aging of assets, the impact of Development Fund projects on related reserve components, construction of the lodge at Downhill Ski Resort, improvements to the Beach Club Marina, Glacier Way and Golf Course cart paths, as well as investments in updated maintenance equipment.
$38.4 million in Development Fund capital investments, including:
• Solar projects at three locations (2015-2016)
• Equestrian campus relocation and upgrades (2015-2017)
• Crabtree Canyon land – 640 acres (2016)
• Alder Creek Adventure Center exterior storage building (2017)
• Equestrian campus improvements, Eagle Rock Chairlift building improvements (2018)
• Trout Creek Recreation Center building expansion (2019-2020)
• Bermgarten Trailhead paving (2020)
• Downhill Ski Lodge professional services, Cross Country Ski Center snowmaking investment (2021-2023)
• Beach Club Marina Deck Expansion (2023-2025)
• Glacier Way Parking Lot + Trailhead improvements, Golf Course cart path repair + replacement (2024)
• Downhill Ski Lodge replacement (2024-2025)
$1.4 million in New Equipment Fund capital investments, including: $138,395 per year average
• Forestry Masticator (2023)
• New Vehicles (2024-2025)
• Meissl Umbrellas (2025)
EXPENDITURES BY YEAR 10 YEAR TOTAL = $86.7 MILLION CAPITAL FUNDS
Capital Funds Expenditures by Year
$40,000,000
$35,000,000
$30,000,000
$25,000,000
$20,000,000
$15,000,000
$10,000,000
$5,000,000
$0
Ten-year total spend of $90.8 million equates to an average of $9.8 million in Capital Reserve Fund expenditures per year. The 10-year average depreciation expense is $3.1 million per year for a total of $31.5 million. Note that many older assets
are fully depreciated and have no annual depreciation expense.
The net effect is a growth in net fixed assets. Over the 10 years, the CAGR was 7.6% for net fixed assets.
Net fixed assets grew from $41.0 million at the end of 2016 to $85.3 million at the end of 2025, a 7.6% growth rate. Your association has invested in fixed assets to improve member enjoyment and protect home values.
Capital Funds Summary
YEAR ENDING DECEMBER 31, 2025
Beginning Fund Balance
Assessment Contribution
Interest Revenue
Operating Fund Transfer In Other Revenue + Expense, Net
Major Maintenance + Fund Expenses Expenditures for Capital Additions
Change in Fund Balance
ENDING FUND BALANCE
NEW EQUIPMENT FUND
Beginning Fund Balance
Assessment Contribution
Interest Revenue
Operating Fund Transfer In Other Revenue + Expense, Net
Major Maintenance + Fund Expenses Expenditures for Capital Additions
Change in Fund Balance
ENDING FUND BALANCE
DEVELOPMENT FUND CAPITAL FUND TOTALS
Beginning Fund Balance Assessment Contribution
Interest Revenue
Operating Surplus Transfer In Other Revenue + Expense, Net Fund Expenses
The variance between Actual and Budget capital expenditures is primarily driven by the timing of projects between years, weather delays and contractor availability.
The Board has a fiduciary responsibility (by law) to do what is best for the Association both now and for the future. Current owners have the responsibility to pay for the depreciation of Association assets, not defer the burden to future owners. Properly maintaining our assets protects owners’ property values
INDEPENDENT AUDITORS’ REPORT
To the Board of Directors
Tahoe Donner Association
OPINION
We have audited the accompanying financial statements of Tahoe Donner Association, which comprise the balance sheet as of December 31, 2025, and the related statements of revenues and expenses and changes in fund balances and cash flows for the year then ended, and the related notes to the financial statements.
In our opinion, the financial statements referred to above present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of Tahoe Donner Association as of December 31, 2025, and the results of its operations and its cash flows for the year then ended in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America.
BASIS FOR OPINION
We conducted our audit in accordance with auditing standards generally accepted in the United States of America. Our responsibilities under those standards are further described in the Auditor’s Responsibilities for the Audit of the Financial Statements section of our report. We are required to be independent of Tahoe Donner Association and to meet our other ethical responsibilities in accordance with the relevant ethical requirements relating to our audit. We believe that the audit evidence we have obtained is sufficient and appropriate to provide a basis for our audit opinion.
RESPONSIBILITIES OF MANAGEMENT FOR THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Management is responsible for the preparation and fair presentation of the financial statements in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America, and for the design, implementation, and maintenance of internal control relevant to the preparation and fair presentation of financial statements that are free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error.
In preparing the financial statements, management is required to evaluate whether there are conditions or events, considered in the aggregate, that raise substantial doubt about Tahoe Donner Association’s ability to continue as a going concern within one year after the date that the financial statements are available to be issued.
misstatement, whether due to fraud or error, and to issue an auditor’s report that includes our opinion. Reasonable assurance is a high level of assurance but is not absolute assurance and therefore is not a guarantee that an audit conducted in accordance with generally accepted auditing standards will always detect a material misstatement when it exists. The risk of not detecting a material misstatement resulting from fraud is higher than for one resulting from error, as fraud may involve collusion, forgery, intentional omissions, misrepresentations, or the override of internal control. Misstatements, including omissions, are considered material if there is a substantial likelihood that, individually or in the aggregate, they would influence the judgment made by a reasonable user based on the financial statements.
In performing an audit in accordance with generally accepted auditing standards, we:
• Exercise professional judgment and maintain professional skepticism throughout the audit.
• Identify and assess the risks of material misstatement of the financial statements, whether due to fraud or error, and design and perform audit procedures responsive to those risks. Such procedures include examining, on a test basis, evidence regarding the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements.
• Obtain an understanding of internal control relevant to the audit in order to design audit procedures that are appropriate in the circumstances, but not for the purpose of expressing an opinion on the effectiveness of Tahoe Donner Association’s internal control. Accordingly, no such opinion is expressed.
• Evaluate the appropriateness of accounting policies used and the reasonableness of significant accounting estimates made by management, as well as evaluate the overall presentation of the financial statements.
• Conclude whether, in our judgment, there are conditions or events, considered in the aggregate, that raise substantial doubt about Tahoe Donner Association’s ability to continue as a going concern for a reasonable period of time.
DISCLAIMER OF OPINION ON REQUIRED SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION
Accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America require that Required Supplementary Information on Future Major Repairs and Replacements on pages 19 and 20 be presented to supplement the basic financial statements. Such information is the responsibility of management and, although not a part of the basic financial statements, is required by the Financial Accounting Standards Board, which considers it to be an essential part of financial reporting for placing the basic financial statements in an appropriate operational, economic, or historical context. We have applied certain limited procedures to the required supplementary information in accordance with auditing standards generally accepted in the United States of America, which consisted of inquiries of management about the methods of preparing the information and comparing the information for consistency with management's responses to our inquiries, the basic financial statements, and other knowledge we obtained during our audit of the basic financial statements. We do not express an opinion or provide any assurance on the information because the limited procedures do not provide us with sufficient evidence to express an opinion or provide any assurance.
OTHER INFORMATION
The information included on pages 17 and 18 is presented for purposes of additional analysis and is not a required part of the basic financial statements. Such information has been subjected to the audit procedures applied in the audits of the basic financial statements and, in our opinion, is fairly stated in all material respects in relation to the basic financial statements taken as a whole.
SUMMARIZED COMPARATIVE INFORMATION
Information for the year ended December 31, 2024 is presented for comparative purposes only and was extracted from the financial statements presented for that year, on which we expressed an unmodified opinion on our report dated March 20, 2025.
McCLINTOCK ACCOUNTANCY CORPORATION
STATEMENTS
AUDITOR’S RESPONSIBILITIES FOR THE AUDIT OF THE FINANCIAL
Our objectives are to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements as a whole are free from material
We are required to communicate with those charged with governance regarding, among other matters, the planned scope and timing of the audit, significant audit findings, and certain internal control related matters that we identified during the audit.
Tahoe City, California March 21, 2026
Tahoe Donner Association Balance Sheet
FOR THE YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2025 (WITH COMPARATIVE TOTALS FOR 2024)
ASSETS
Cash and cash equivalents, unrestricted (Note 3)
Cash and cash equivalents, designated and restricted (Note 3)
Investments, unrestricted (Note 3)
Investments, designated and restricted (Note 3)
Assessments and other member receivables, less allowance for credit losses of $160,929 in 2025 and $178,621 in 2024
MEMBER ASSESSMENTS AND ALLOWANCE FOR CREDIT LOSSES –
Tahoe Donner Association (Association) is a California nonprofit mutual benefit corporation. The Association’s members own the 6,473 membership properties within the Tahoe Donner subdivision in Truckee, California. The Association was organized to provide management services and maintenance of certain common area and other real property owned by the Association. A significant portion of revenue is derived from the assessment of member dues.
The Association operates and maintains facilities, which include a golf course and pro shop, restaurants, downhill ski area, clubhouse, Nordic ski area, beach and marina area, equestrian center, campground, tennis facilities, recreation complex, pools, and parks. Revenues are derived from member and non-member usage of these facilities.
The Association’s Board of Directors is comprised of five members elected to serve three-year terms by a vote of the members. The Board of Directors governs in accordance with the Association’s bylaws and declaration of covenants and restrictions. The Board of Directors establishes members’ dues and user fees and has the ability to enter into long-term contracts. Along with other actions, closing an Association amenity (as defined by the governing documents) requires a vote of the members.
2
SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES
BASIS OF PRESENTATION – The Association’s governing documents provide certain guidelines for governing its financial activities. To ensure observance of limitations and restrictions on the use of financial resources, the Association maintains its accounts using fund accounting. Financial resources are classified for accounting and reporting purposes in the following funds established according to their nature and purpose:
OPERATING FUND – Used to account for financial resources available for the general operations of the Association.
REPLACEMENT RESERVE FUND – Used to account for financial resources designated for the repair, restoration, replacement, or maintenance of, or litigation involving repair, restoration, replacement, or maintenance of, major components which the Association is obligated to repair, restore, replace, or maintain and for which the replacement reserve fund was established.
NEW EQUIPMENT FUND – Used to account for financial resources designated for the purchase of new machinery, equipment, furnishings, and fixtures.
DEVELOPMENT FUND – Used to account for financial resources designated for use in the acquisition and enhancement of facilities, equipment, and other resources.
PROPERTY FUND – Used to account for the Association’s investment in its common property and equipment, and other Association real property.
Association members are subject to annual assessments to provide funds for the Association’s operating expenses, major repairs and replacements, development, and purchase of new equipment. Accounts receivable at the balance sheet date primarily represents amounts due from unit owners. The Association’s collection policy includes, among other things, assessing a late charge and interest, filing a lien, and assessing a lien fee on payments not received within the allowable time periods. In certain instances, foreclosure may be necessary.
The Association treats uncollectible assessments as credit losses. Methods, inputs, and assumptions used to evaluate when assessments are considered uncollectible include close monitoring of outstanding assessment balances by management, member payment history of outstanding assessment balances, and susceptibility to factors outside the Association's control. An allowance for credit losses is created when an account’s collectability is uncertain. Accounts are written off when the Association’s management determines that an account is uncollectible due to an event such as bankruptcy or foreclosure proceedings.
Allowance for credit losses as of December 31 was as follows:
Beginning balance
Provision for
REVENUE RECOGNITION – The Association’s accounting policies with regards to revenue from contracts with customers are discussed in Note 3.
CASH consists of cash on hand, demand deposits at banks and money market funds.
The Association minimizes credit risk associated with cash by periodically evaluating the credit quality of its primary financial institution. The balance at times may exceed federally insured limits. As of December 31, 2025 and 2024, cash balances exceeded federally insured limits by approximately $10,303,786 and $10,910,000, respectively. The Association has not experienced any losses in such accounts and management believes the Association is not exposed to any significant credit risk related to cash.
INVESTMENTS consist of debt securities and certificates of deposits, which are carried at amortized cost as the Association has the positive intent and ability to hold all debt securities and certificates of deposit until maturity.
INVENTORIES consist of food, beverage and retail goods and are stated at the lower of average cost or market.
PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT of the Association includes certain facilities and land contributed by the developer in prior years. Such contributed assets were recorded at the developer’s historical cost basis at the date of transfer. Subsequent acquisitions and construction of real property, facilities, and equipment are recorded at cost.
Notes to the Financial Statements
The Association capitalizes expenditures for property and equipment with an individual cost of $5,000 or more. Depreciation is computed using the straight-line method over the estimated useful lives of the related assets, which range from 3 to 60 years. Property and equipment are recorded within the Association’s property fund. The Association owns approximately 5,048 acres of common area and other Association real property, all of which are governed by the Association’s declaration of covenants and restrictions and bylaws.
INTEREST INCOME and the related income tax expense is allocated to the operating, replacement reserve, new machinery and equipment and development funds in proportion to the interest-bearing assets of each fund.
ASSESSMENTS PAID IN ADVANCE AND DEFERRED REVENUE primarily represents funds received for assessments, amenity and newsletter fees received in the current fiscal year, which apply to the subsequent fiscal year.
DEPOSITS FROM MEMBERS held by the Association are primarily security deposits from members for the construction of residential real property. The deposits are used to ensure that construction is completed in accordance with the guidelines established by the Community Standards Office. The funds are deposited in a separate trust account and are refundable upon satisfactory completion of construction.
ADVERTISING COSTS are expensed as incurred. For the year ended December 31, 2025 and 2024 advertising costs total $47,547 and $43,834, respectively.
INCOME TAXES – For California purposes, the Association is taxed as a membership organization. As such, the Association is generally taxed only on non-member income, such as investment earnings, advertising revenue and gains on sales of assets at regular state corporate tax rates. For federal tax purposes, the Association has tax-exempt status as a non-profit organization under Internal Revenue Code 501(c)(4). Unrelated business income earned by the Association, such as advertising revenue, is taxed net of related expenses at regular federal corporate tax rates.
The Association has applied the accounting principles related to the accounting for uncertainty in income taxes and has determined there is no material impact on the financial statements. With some exceptions, the Association is no longer subject to U.S. federal and state income tax examinations by tax authorities for years prior to 2019.
CARRYING AMOUNTS OF FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS, including cash and cash equivalent, accounts receivable and accounts payable approximate their fair value due to the short-term maturities of these instruments.
USE OF ESTIMATES – The preparation of financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect certain reported amounts and disclosures. Accordingly, actual results could differ from those estimates.
RECLASSIFICATIONS
– Certain reclassifications have been made in the 2024 financial statements to conform to the classifications used in 2025. The reclassifications had no impact on the financial position or results of operations for 2024.
REVENUE RECOGNITION
– The Association adopted the provisions of Accounting Standards Codification Topic 606, Revenue from Contracts with Customers, (“Topic 606” in the Accounting Standards Codification (ASC). Topic 606 superseded the revenue recognition requirements in FASB ASC 972-605, Real Estate—Common Interest Realty Associations, Revenue Recognition. Under Topic 606, the Association must identify a contract with a customer, among other things, and recognize revenue as the Association satisfies a performance obligation.
As described above, Association members are subject to annual assessments that provide funds for the Association’s operating expenses and major repairs and replacements. Association management has considered Topic 606 and concluded that Association members are not customers as defined in the ASC. As such, all assessment revenue, including amounts allocated to the replacement fund, is recognized in the period in which it is assessed, regardless of when it is collected or expended.
REVENUE FROM CONTRACTS WITH CUSTOMERS
REVENUE RECOGNITION
The following provides information about the Association’s composition of revenue recognized from contracts with customers, the performance obligations under those contracts, and the significant judgments made in accounting for those contracts: Downhill Ski, Cross Country and Golf revenue is derived from a wide variety of sources, including, among other things: lift, trail, and course access revenue, which includes sales of lift tickets, trail access, golf course access and pass products; ski school and lesson revenue, which includes the revenue derived from ski school and lesson operations; food and beverage sales; retail sales and equipment rental revenue. Revenue is recognized over time as performance obligations are satisfied as control of the goods or services (e.g. access to ski areas, trails and golf course, provision of ski school and lesson services, etc.) is transferred to the customer, except for the retail sales, rentals and food and beverage operations revenue which are recognized at a point in time when performance obligations are satisfied by transferring control of the underlying goods to the customer. The Association records deferred revenue primarily related to the sales of the pass products. Deferred revenue is recognized throughout the ski and golf seasons as the Association’s performance obligations are satisfied as control of the service (e.g. access to the ski areas throughout the ski season) is transferred to the customer. The transfer of control is based on the number of days that have passed in the season relative to total expected season days. Total expected season days are based on historical data, and the Association believes this estimate provide a faithful depiction of its customers pass product usage.
Trout Creek Recreation Center and aquatics, Snowplay, Marina and Tennis are accessible via an annual recreation pass or daily access fees. Revenue is derived from recreation pass usage, daily access fees, lessons, classes and trainings, retail sales, equipment rentals and food and beverage sales. Revenue is recognized over time as performance obligations are satisfied as control of the goods or services (e.g. access amenities, provision of lessons, classes, and training services, etc.) is transferred to the customer, except for the retail sales, rentals and food and beverage operations revenue which are recognized at a point in time when performance obligations are satisfied by transferring control of the underlying goods to the customer. The Association records deferred revenue primarily related to the sales of the recreation pass. Deferred revenue is recognized throughout recreation pass period as the Association’s performance obligations are satisfied as control of the service (e.g. access to amenities throughout the pass period) is transferred to the customer. The transfer of control is based on an estimated number of pass holder visits relative to total expected visits. The total expected visits are estimated based on historical data, and the Association believes this estimate provides a faithful depiction of its customers’ pass product usage.
Food and beverage revenue (The Lodge and Summer F&B, Alder Creek Cafe, and Pizza on the Hill) is derived from restaurants and cafes, room rentals and banquets. Revenue is recognized at a point in time when performance obligations are satisfied by transferring controls of the underlying goods to the customer.
Communications revenue is derived primarily from newsletter ad sales. Revenue is recognized over time as performance obligations are satisfied as control of the good (e.g. inclusion of ad in the monthly newsletter) is transferred to the customer. Deferred revenue relates sales of newsletter ad space for multiple monthly publications in advance.
Other revenue sources not previously mentioned provide revenue from a variety of means including other amenity access fees, lessons and camps, retail sales, equipment rentals, special events and concerts, food and beverage sales, architectural fees, and forestry grants revenues. Revenue is recognized over time as performance obligations are satisfied as control of the (e.g. completions of lessons or camps) is transferred to the customer, except for retail sales, equipment rentals and food and beverage sales which are recognized at a point in time when performance obligations are satisfied by transferring control of the underlying goods to the customer.
ARRANGEMENTS WITH MULTIPLE PERFORMANCE OBLIGATIONS
Some of the Association’s contracts with customers include multiple performance obligations, primarily related to bundled services such as multiple events, camps, class and lesson packages. For such contracts, revenue is allocated to each distinct and separate performance obligation based on its relative standalone selling price. The standalone selling prices are generally based on observable prices charged to customers or estimated based on historical experience and information.
Notes to the Financial Statements
CONTRACT BALANCES
Contract liabilities are recorded primarily as deferred revenues when payments are received or due in advance of the Association’s performance, including amounts which may be refundable. The deferred revenue balance is primarily related to accounts receivable or cash payments recorded in advance of satisfying the Association’s performance obligations related to advance purchase products consisting primarily of recreation passes, ski and golf passes, amenity related lessons and programs. Deferred revenue balances related to contracts was approximately $1,492,000 and $2,047,000 as of December 31, 2025 and 2024, respectively. For the years ended December 31, 2025 and 2024, the Association recognized approximately $2,047,000 and $2,288,000 of contract revenue that was included in the deferred revenue balance as of the previous fiscal year, respectively.
Contract assets are recorded as trade receivables when the right to consideration is unconditional. Trade receivable balances were approximately $45,000 and $-0- as of December 31, 2025 and 2024, respectively. Payments from customers are based on billing terms established in the contracts with customers, which vary by the type of customer, the location and the products or services offered. The term between invoicing and when payment is due is not significant. For certain products or services and customer types, contracts require payment before the products are delivered or services are provided to the customer. Impairment losses related to contract assets are recognized through the Association’s allowance for doubtful accounts analysis. Contract asset write-offs are evaluated on an individual basis.
COSTS TO OBTAIN CONTRACTS WITH CUSTOMERS
The Association expects that credit card fees paid in order to obtain season pass products contracts are recoverable. Accordingly, the Association recognizes these amounts as assets when they are paid prior to the start of the pass season. As of December 31, 2025 and 2024, approximately $-0- of costs to obtain contracts with customers were recorded within prepaid expenses and other current assets, respectively.
Utilizing the practical expedient provided for under Topic 606, the Association has elected to expense credit card fees related to nonpass products and services as incurred, as the amortization period is generally one year or less for the time between customer purchase and utilization. These fees are recorded within departmental expenses on the Association’s Statement of Revenue and Expenses and Changes in Fund Balances.
Notes to the Financial Statements
CASH AND INVESTMENTS 3
At December 31, the Association’s cash and investments consisted of undesignated, designated, and restricted accounts as follows:
Replacement Reserve Fund - designated Development Fund - designated New Equipment Fund - designated
Operating Fund - undesignated and unrestricted
Operating Fund - Trust - restricted 457 (b) and 457 (f)
Operating Fund - Architectural standards deposits - restricted
TOTAL 2025 TOTAL $ 12,131,263 2,575,527 141,904 11,368,909 33,588 85,804 $ 26,336,995 INVESTMENTS $ 9,279,652 2,493,698
Replacement Reserve Fund - designated Development Fund - designated New Equipment Fund - designated
Operating Fund - undesignated and unrestricted
Operating Fund - Trust - restricted 457 (b) and 457 (f)
Board designated funds in the replacement reserve fund cannot be expended for any purpose other than the repair, restoration, replacement, or maintenance of, or litigation involving repair, restoration, replacement, or maintenance of, major components which the Association is obligated to repair, restore, replace, or maintain and for which the replacement reserve fund was established as mandated by state law. Designated funds in the development fund are controlled by Board-adopted policy that affords the Board discretion in expenditure, except where member approval is required in connection with the intended project.
Cash consists of cash on hand, demand deposits at banks and highly liquid money market funds.
Association investments consist of municipal and corporate securities, and governmental securities. Varying types and levels of safety protection cover the various Association investments, including FDIC insurance, SIPC insurance, privately funded bank insurance, and the backing of the US Treasury and its agencies.
Municipal and corporate securities, governmental securities and certificates of deposit are carried at amortized cost as they are classified as held to maturity investments since the Association has the positive intent and ability to hold all securities until maturity.
Notes to the Financial Statements
The amortized cost of held-to-maturity investment at December 31, 2025 and 2024 are securities as follows:
Held to maturity:
Corporate Notes
Corporate Bonds
Municipal Bonds
US Treasury
TOTAL HELD TO MATURITY
1,634,579 1,499,993 2,867,814 $ 11,773,350
The maturities of the held to maturity securities at December 31, 2025 and 2024 are all within one to five years.
4
PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT
Property and equipment consist of the following:
5 6
INCOME TAXES
The provision for income taxes for the year ended December 31 is as follows:
The Association’s policy is to maintain replacement funding levels sufficient to pay for capital replacements, refurbishments, and repairs. Funds for replacement of Association property and equipment is accounted for through a replacement reserve fund. The funds are designated for major repairs and replacement. When major repairs or replacement occur, the expenditures are charged against the fund balance or, if certain conditions are met, a transfer is made for property and equipment to the property fund and the expenditures are capitalized.
Replacement funding levels, as determined by a study updated in 2025, are forecast on a 30-year basis with annual updates to replacement schedules, as they become known. The annual assessment allocation to the replacement reserve fund is determined by the Board of Directors with input from management. Actual expenditures, however, may vary from the estimated amounts and the variations may be material. If additional funds are needed, the Association has the right, subject to any necessary member approval, to increase regular dues, to levy special assessments, or modify and adjust the scheduled major repairs and replacements as necessary.
As of December 31, 2025, the association’s replacement reserve funding levels were based on a reserve study, which projects replacement requirements over a 30-year period and is updated annually as revised information becomes available, with a 3-year full study planned for 2026. Under this framework, the association established targets of a percent funded level exceeding 25% and a replacement reserve fund balance equal to or exceeding 10% of net replacement reserve assets (defined as total property and equipment less land and land improvements).
Subsequent to December 31, 2025, the Board adopted revised capital reserve fund policies with updated minimum targets and funding plans subject to an implementation plan. The implementation plans were developed as part of the annual budget development process, demonstrating how the association will achieve compliance with the updated minimum funding levels and long-term funding objectives no later than January 1, 2036.
INTERFUND
The Association maintains five funds. Portions of the overall assessment are deposited first to the operating fund and then transferred to the respective reserve funds. All fund expenses are paid first by the operating fund and subsequently paid back by cash transfer. At various times during the year there is a receivable/payable (due to/from) among the funds.
RETIREMENT PLANS
The Association sponsors a 401(k)-retirement plan for the benefit of Association employees who meet plan eligibility requirements. Under this plan, the Association will contribute a Safe Harbor match of up to 4% to all employees enrolled in the plan. Matching contributions expense was $284,679 and $257,794 for December 31, 2025 and 2024, respectively.
The Association maintains two defined contribution plans which qualify under Section 457(b) and Section 457(f) of the Internal Revenue Code, respectively (the 457 Plans). The 457 Plans allow for additional Association contributions and salary deferrals subject to limitations for eligible executive employees. Contributions to the 457 Plans funds are considered deferred compensation until certain future date conditions are met. The Association’s contribution to the 457 Plans was $25,000 and $-0- for the years ended December 31 2025 and 2024, respectively. The 2025 contribution was funded with prior plan forfeitures.
COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES –WATERSHED RESTORATION PARTNERSHIP
In April 2025, the Association entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Truckee River Watershed Council (TRWC). The MOU establishes a long-term partnership and allows for multiple envisioned improvement and restoration projects. The Association also entered into a series of related agreements (the "Agreements") with TWRC for the Euer Valley Phase 1 Project. This project includes significant environmental restoration of approximately 30 acres of meadow and stream habitat, as well as infrastructure improvements including a new 150-foot bridge at Coyote Crossing and a 512-foot boardwalk.
Project Funding and Grant Income: The total projected cost for Phase 1 construction is approximately $3,014,000. The project is being funded through a cost-sharing partnership:
• Grant Funding: TRWC has secured grant funding from various sources totaling approximately $2,539,000 to cover the majority of construction, restoration, and soft costs of which $1,607,000 has been granted to the Association.
• Association Match: The Association has committed a matching contribution not to exceed $475,000, which was funded from the Replacement Reserve Fund in 2025.
Terms of the Agreements:
• Reimbursement Agreement: Under the terms of the project's reimbursement agreement, the Association acts as the lead for certain infrastructure components (bridge and boardwalk), with TRWC reimbursing the Association for costs exceeding the $475,000 match.
• License Agreement: The Association granted TRWC a nonexclusive license for a term of 10 to 20 years to access Euer Valley for project implementation, environmental monitoring, and followup maintenance.
• Liability: TRWC has assumed responsibility for all restorationspecific costs and potential overages related to the restoration components of the project.
The Association was eligible for the Employee Retention Credit (“ERC”) under the Cares Act. During 2025, the Association received a refund of approximately $2,362,000 (including interest of approximately $352,000) for pay periods spanning from the first quarter of 2021 through the second quarter of 2021.
SUBSEQUENT EVENTS
Subsequent events have been evaluated through March 21, 2026, the date the financial statements were issued.
Tahoe Donner Association Balance Sheet
FOR THE YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2025 (WITH COMPARATIVE TOTALS FOR 2024)
OPERATIONS
REVENUE
Assessments
Access and use fees
Retail sales
Lessons and rental revenue
Late charges, fines and fees
Other revenues
Interest income
Total Revenue
Salaries and wages
Cost of goods sold
Payroll taxes and employee benefits
Supplies and maintenance
Utilities
Other employee expenses
Insurance
Income tax
Other expenses (recoveries)
Total Operating Expenses
FUND EXPENSES
(Gain) Loss on disposal of assets
Depreciation
Fund expenses
Total Expenses
REVENUE OVER (UNDER) EXPENSES
PROPERTY FUND ADDITIONS, NET FUND BALANCES (DEFICIT), BEGINNING OF YEAR
Required Supplementary Information on Future Major Repairs and Replacements
DECEMBER 31, 2025 (UNAUDITED)
It is the policy of the Association to fund a reserve program that will adequately provide for repair and replacement of existing Associationowned assets. A 30-year reserve funding and expenditure plan is produced every three years, and updated annually, to schedule and analyze the funding needs. The Association updated the study in 2025 to estimate the remaining useful lives, the lives after replacement, and the replacement costs of the components of common property. The estimates were based on estimates from management, contractors, and historical costs. Estimated current replacement costs have been adjusted to reflect a 3% inflation factor, 4.5% investment interest rate, and an 2% tax provision on investment income.
The Association does not designate the balance of the replacement fund by component. The total available for major repairs and replacements as of December 31, 2025, is $13,395,027. The 2026 budget includes $6,693,082 of dues allocated to the replacement reserve fund.
The Association has not included the replacement of building structures as a component of the replacement study. These structures generally have an original useful life greater than 30 years.
The following table is based on the study and presents significant information about the components of common property.
$5,000 GRANT TO TRUCKEE NAVIGATION CENTER, PROVIDING SERVICES FOR OUR UNHOUSED NEIGHBORS TAHOE DONNER GIVING FUND
12 YEARS IN THE MAKING
The Navigation Center, a one-year pilot program, opened its doors on Feb. 25 with a ribbon-cutting ceremony and open house. This is the first shelter of its kind in Truckee and will provide a range of year-round services for the area’s unhoused population. The center is a monumental accomplishment due to the tireless commitment of the Tahoe Truckee Homeless Action Coalition (TTHAC), led by co-chairs Truckee Councilmember Jan Zabriskie, Nevada County Supervisor Hardy Bullock, and volunteer Cindy Basso. TTHAC comprises 11 local agencies and non-profits working to end homelessness in the Tahoe Truckee region. Funding received, with major contributions from the Town of Truckee, Tahoe Forest Hospital District, Nevada and Placer Counties and the Tahoe-Truckee community, for this center is the first step toward bringing this objective to fruition.
THE NAVIGATION CENTER
The center is open 24/7 and consists of 16 beds: six for year-round interim housing and 10 for congregate emergency shelter. Drop-in services for both residents and non-residents will be available Monday through Friday. A range of essential resources includes showers, meals, laundry, mail services, storage and case management. This model will truly provide stability in people’s lives by creating a safe and supportive place for our unhoused neighbors
and a sense of community. Management of the center will be professionally operated by Volunteers of America (VOA), which was founded in 1896. As Cindy Basso states, “VOA’s staff have the skill set and heart for this kind of work, helping people move forward.” There is already a wait list for the congregate beds at the Navigation Center.
FELLOWSHIP OF COMPASSION MINISTRIES
The Fellowship of Compassion (FOC), founded by Cindy Basso, is proud to be a leader in the development of the Navigation Center Pilot Program. This congregation took the lead on Community Fundraising, focusing on ensuring that every person who finds refuge at the Navigation Center is not only provided comprehensive support services but also rediscovers hope, dignity and the belief that change is possible. FOC is a community united by a shared belief in the transformative power of love, grace and service to all people, especially those who are marginalized, forgotten and oppressed. FOC continues to fundraise to ensure stability beyond this pilot year. Collective Empowerment, an “arm” of FOC, is an initiative designed to build meaningful connections and foster a sense of belonging within our community. This mentor-advocacy program pairs recently housed individuals with FOC members and the broader
neighborhood, creating an environment of support, empathy and empowerment. Participants gather monthly over coffee in a welcoming and casual setting to share stories, experiences, and encouragement. The goal is simple: to offer a listening ear, a helping hand, genuine care and friendship, and a reminder that no one is alone in their journey. Collective Empowerment hopes to bridge the gaps between neighbors, foster understanding and inspire lasting change rooted in compassion and community solidarity. FOC welcomes volunteers who have a desire to uplift one another and celebrate the shared strength that comes from supporting each other’s growth through this mentor-advocacy program.
“Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has.”
– Margaret Mead
To learn more, visit the following websites:
• Tahoe Truckee Homeless Action Coalition Navigation Center tthomelesscoalition.org/navigation-center
• Fellowship of Compassion fellowshipofcompassion.org
• Tahoe Donner Giving Fund tahoedonner.com/giving-fund
The Tahoe Donner Giving Fund is administered as an affiliate fund of the Tahoe Truckee Community Foundation, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, EIN 68-0416404. All contributions are voluntary, irrevocable, and are tax-deductible to the extent allowed by law. Tahoe Donner Giving Fund grants and scholarships are made through the Tahoe Truckee Community Foundation's annual review process. The Tahoe Donner Giving Fund Committee thanks our founding partner, Elements Mountain Company, who has supported the Tahoe Donner Giving Fund since its inception in 2014, and the anonymous Tahoe Donner member who has generously funded the IMPACT Scholarships each year since 2019.
ROADMAP TO THE ELECTION
TWO BOARD OF DIRECTOR POSITIONS OPEN
Two positions are open for the 2026 Board of Directors Election! Learn about the candidates and choose which candidates best represent your priorities for Tahoe Donner. Your vote matters. Visit tahoedonner.com/boardelections to read about the candidates, key election events and voting frequently asked questions.
MAY 4
Director Election Statements and links to election-related personal websites for candidates and verified Member Advocates available online. Deadline for members to update their contact information at tahoedonner.com/update-your-profile
MAY 22
Submit your topics online before 5PM for the candidates to address at the June 2 Director Election Forum. ?
MAY 27
Voting packets mailed to the address on file. One ballot per property. Please work with your co-owners to cast your ballot.
JUNE 2
DIRECTOR ELECTION FORUM | 6-8PM ONLINE VIA ZOOM
The candidates will speak on selected topics submitted by members. The forum will be moderated by the Inspector of Elections. The recording of this Forum will be made available online.
JUNE 23
A locked ballot box will be placed in Member Services at Northwoods Clubhouse on June 23 at 8AM and will remain until June 28 at 10AM. Member Services office hours are 8AM– 5PM daily.
TAHOE DONNER SUMMER 2026
KIDS GOLF CAMPS + CLINICS
Sign them up to learn, play and improve their confidence on the course with kids camps for ages 7-13 and clinics for all ages and skill levels, including:
• The NEW Mini Rookies Clinics starting at age 5
• Fall clinics designed for local junior golfers REGISTER TODAY AT TAHOEDONNER.COM/JUNIOR-GOLF-PROGRAMS
On-site voting and replacement ballots are available until 5PM. The deadline for receipt of mailed or hand delivered ballots to the Accountancy firm in Reno, Nevada is 5PM.
JUNE 28
CONCLUSION OF ELECTION AT ANNUAL MEETING OF MEMBERS | 10AM-12PM
NORTHWOODS CLUBHOUSE AND ONLINE VIA ZOOM VOTING FROM 10-11:30AM
Personally delivered ballots will be accepted on-site until 11:30AM. Election results are announced by the Inspector
Permits, inspections, and late-night guest calls are draining. ManageHome handles compliance, guest care, and property management — so you can enjoy your Tahoe home stress-free. Please reach out for a free consultation.
UNCONTESTED ELECTION / ACCLAMATION
If, at the close of nominations, the number of qualified candidates is equal to or less than the number of directors to be elected, pursuant to the association bylaws, the association will consult with counsel as to the ability to declare the qualified candidates elected without the need for mail-in voting.
Business Directory
Business Coaching
Alefitt hello@alefitt.com alefitt.com
Defensible Space / Landscaping / Tree Service
Alpen Tree Experts
10221 Schaffer Drive, Truckee, CA 96161 (530) 448-1194 alpentree@gmail.com alpentree.com
Elements Mountain Co.
17356 Northwoods Blvd., Truckee, CA 96161 (530) 582-0300
info@elementsmtn.co elementsmtn.co
Hall Tree PO Box 3374, Truckee, CA 96160 (530) 320-8061 halltree@gmail.com halltreecompany.com
Northwoods Tree & Land Service PO Box 8153, Truckee, CA 96162 (530) 401-2619
The Tahoe National Forest will close areas within the “Alder 89 WUI Timber Sale” along Highway 89 from May 1 through Dec. 31, 2026. The closure impacts federal lands within a half-mile of Highway 89, between County Road 878 and County Road 886, and applies to National Forest lands, roads and trails within a half-mile east and west of the Highway 89 centerline from CR-878 south to CR-886. The closures are for public safety during hazardous fuels reduction, including logging and tree removal operations.
When traveling, it is highly recommended to check the official Tahoe National Forest alerts page at fs.usda.gov/r05/tahoe/alerts for the most up-to-date maps.
LOCAL
NEWS
ALERT: TDPUD Work Along Northwoods
Truckee Donner Public Utility District (TDPUD) will begin planned capital construction and vegetation management projects soon on Northwoods Blvd. These projects will benefit our community by mitigating wildfire, increasing community safety and improving TDPUD’s system reliability.
Overhead Infrastructure
Hardening Project
TDPUD crews will continue the system hardening work they began in a pilot program last fall, including replacing wood power poles and traditional powerlines with metal poles, composite fiberglass crossarms and insulated powerlines. This work will occur on a section of Northwoods Boulevard between Fjord Road and Davos Drive. Beginning May 4, TDPUD has contracted VIP Powerline Corp. to join TDPUD’s crews to support and accelerate the project, which will continue through early summer.
Vegetation Management
TDPUD’s contracted tree crews from P32 Enterprises will be conducting routine tree trimming throughout the summer along the southern section of Northwoods Boulevard, between Davos Drive and the Northwoods Boulevard intersection. This proactive effort
helps prepare the area for upcoming system hardening improvements, which will enhance safety and reliability for the community.
Both may necessitate brief periods of singlelane traffic. Always use caution when driving near work sites and crews working on the side of the road. We appreciate your patience as we make critical upgrades and continue to invest in stronger, more resilient infrastructure.
GOLF
Reminder: Please Stay Off the Tahoe Donner Golf Course
As the snow melts, please continue to stay off the fairways and cart path at Tahoe Donner Golf Course. Access is only permitted by active golfers with a reservation during the golf season. For more information, please visit tahoedonner.com/golf
GREEN WASTE
Green Waste Pickup Reservations Now Open
The Truckee Fire Protection District is now accepting green waste pickup requests through its online reservation system. Please visit the website at truckeefire.org/greenwaste to request your free curbside green waste pickup, review eligible materials and learn how to prepare your green waste piles.
Additionally, through Measure T Funding, Truckee Fire Protection District offers rebates of up to 75% of the rental cost for 6-yard dumpsters, as well as reimbursements for 20- to 30-yard dumpsters for Firewise Community Workdays.
NOTE: Tahoe Donner no longer provides green waste pickup services. Visit truckeefire.org/greenwaste for all green waste management services provide by Truckee Fire Protection District.
SPECIAL EVENTS
Join Truckee’s 3rd Annual Pride Week
Saturday, May 30-Sunday, June 7
Celebrate the LGBTQ+ community, visibility and joy in the Sierra. Join the Truckee community for Pride Week, May 30-June 7, featuring yoga, picnics, film screenings, community breakfast, sparkle bike night,
climbing and more than 20 family-friendly activities celebrating Pride and inclusivity at different venues throughout Truckee. Visit truckeepride.org for more information.
SPECIAL EVENTS
2026 Community Yard Sale
Don’t miss one of Tahoe Donner’s favorite community events! Join your neighbors for the 7th Annual Tahoe Donner Community Yard Sale on Saturday, May 23, 2026, hosted by the Abarta-Biebl Group with Sierra Sotheby’s International Realty.
All participants will be featured on both a digital and printed yard sale map, distributed on the day of the event, making it easy for visitors to navigate and discover every sale. Registration deadline is May 15.
Visit tahoedonner.com/tahoe-donner-yard-sale for details and to register your property.
GREEN WASTE
Town of Truckee Green Waste Drop-off Day
Self-service drop-off days are a convenient way to dispose of residential green waste, like pine needles, pine cones, cleared brush and smaller tree rounds. Plastic bags, rocks, dirt, commercial yard waste, tree rounds larger than 24 inches, stumps, boards and other trash are not permitted. Limit of three yards per trip.
Drop off your green waste in Tahoe Donner on Friday, May 29 from 8AM-1PM at the Tahoe Donner Downhill Ski Resort Parking Lot 5. For more information, visit keeptruckeegreen.org/residential-wasterecycling/yard-waste-services
EMPLOYMENT
Join the Team! Stop by the Tahoe Donner Summer Hiring Fair on May 9
Discover rewarding job opportunities and join a team of like-minded outdoor enthusiasts, with additional perks and benefits like food and retail discounts, golf discounts and free access to private amenities like Trout Creek Rec Center, Beach Club Marina and more.
Visit Pizza on the Hill on Saturday, May 9, from 10AM to 2PM to meet hiring managers, learn more about open positions and meet other Tahoe Donner team members. For more information, visit tahoedonner.com/jobs
Board Meeting Recaps
Regular Board of Directors Meeting
March 27, 2026
2025 Annual Audit
The board received a presentation from McClintock Accountancy Corp. on the draft 2025 Auditor’s Report, followed by member comments and board discussion. The board adopted the 2025 Audit Report as presented. Motion passed 5-0.
Digital Transformation Initiative
This item was deferred to a later meeting.
Amenity Access Rule Updates
Staff presented proposed updates to the Amenity Access Rule and related Operating Plan. The board discussed the proposed revisions and provided feedback.
Go to tahoedonner.com/board-meetings to see presentations and video recordings of past meetings. To provide feedback to help improve the overall association, please submit your comments and concerns at tahoedonner.com/feedback
The Covenants Committee levied the following fines in March 2026.
Member BBQ + Expo
SUNDAY, JUNE 28 • NORTHWOODS CLUBHOUSE
Spend a summer afternoon with other Tahoe Donner homeowners immediately following the Annual Membership Meeting. Enjoy free food, happy hour pricing on drinks and live music as you chat with Tahoe Donner amenities, local agencies, nonprofits and your neighbors.
Where in the World
is Tahoe Donner News + Life?
Komodo National Park, Indonesia
Rob and April Filer traveled around Bali and then joined a scuba excursion that visited Komodo to see the famous dragons!
Meppen, Germany
Anne and John Shelchuk in front of the Rathaus in Meppen, Germany – a quaint town in the north where Anne lived as an exchange student 40 years ago and was excited to revisit.
Munich, Germany
The world-famous Rathaus-Glockenspiel Clock Tower in Marienplatz in Munich, where Rob and Anne Naragon finished an epic three-week river cruise and road trip around southern Germany celebrating their 35th wedding anniversary.
Breisach, Germany
Garth and Michele Riopelle on their trip to the Black Forest – the Schwarzwald – in southwest Germany.
SUBMIT YOUR PHOTOS
Email your “Where in the World” photos to comdep@tahoedonner.com
Please submit only JPG files of 300 dpi for printing. Photos must include a copy of Tahoe Donner News + Life. Please list the names of everyone in the picture, where it was taken and a short description. Note: Please be patient; it could take several months to see your photo published.
