Neighbors split on Neighborhood Improvement District project

A beautification project in Henderson is pitting neighbors against one another in a move that critics call a backhanded attempt to create a homeowners association. Robert Herr, the city’s public works director, parks and recreation department, said the project is meant to bring the community together to maintain the landscape in the perimeter of the Meridian Estates near Robindale Road and Pecos Road. The project will replace trees, plant new shrubbery and remove toxic material. It will add grading and install an irrigation system, accent boulders and rock mulch, Herr said. He said the city has “no intention of creating an HOA” in the 166-home neighborhood. The estimated total is $537 per home, and the payment would be divided over two years into semi-annual installments of $134.25. Long-term maintenance is estimated to be approximately $52 per year per home. An additional service fee related to the Neighborhood Improvement District will include a cost of about $36 the first year and $19.27 in subsequent years.