Landscaping Changes, Pine Tree Removals, and Lake Level Fixes: Key Updates from the Lakes on Eldridge HOA Board
Residents of Lakes on Eldridge have likely noticed the shifting state of landscaping across the community in recent weeks. Now, the HOA Board is offering clarity—and a plan.
In a detailed message sent to homeowners on October 6, 2025, the HOA Board President outlined a series of important updates aimed at restoring landscaping standards, addressing storm-damaged pine trees, and improving lake and irrigation infrastructure across the neighborhood.
A New Chapter in Landscaping Care
After several months of underwhelming landscaping performance, the Board has officially decided not to renew its contract with longtime vendor Maldonado. Instead, a new search began—guided closely by the community’s Landscaping Committee.
“We’ve been working with new vendors to collect bids and find a suitable replacement,” the Board shared. The HOA is now in the final stages of contract discussions with a potential new company.
To finalize the decision, a special meeting is scheduled for Thursday, October 9 at 6:00 PM at the clubhouse. While brief—only about 15 minutes long—the meeting will include a formal vote by the Board to approve the new landscaping proposal. Homeowners are invited to attend, but public comments will not be taken during the session.
During the transition, a temporary landscaping service has been hired to provide basic upkeep until the new company can officially begin work.
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Pine Trees Struggling After Years of Stress
The Board also acknowledged an increase in dying or severely damaged pine trees throughout the community, tying the tree health decline to a series of extreme weather events that have hit the region in recent years:
- 2021 – Winter Storm Uri
- 2023 – Stage 1 Drought
- 2024 – Derecho Storm and Hurricane Beryl
- 2024 – Moderate Drought
While many affected pines have already been removed, another round of tree removals is imminent. A contractor has been scheduled to begin work soon.
Residents who spot potentially overlooked trees are encouraged to contact the onsite office with a photo and location so the removal team can follow up.
Although the area is not currently in a formal drought, Harris County is experiencing “Abnormally Dry” conditions—and forecasts show no rain relief in sight.
Quietly Improving the Lakes and Irrigation System
Tucked near the end of the update was what the Board playfully called a “mildly boring lake infrastructure update”—but it’s one many Lakes on Eldridge homeowners will appreciate as lake levels fluctuate during dry seasons.
Lake Management has received approval to install automatic levelers on Lakes C, D, and F, which have previously required time-consuming manual refills to maintain water levels.
These new float-based systems will automatically regulate lake levels, improving both efficiency and aesthetics. The project faced initial delays, but work is now expected to be completed by the end of this week.
The irrigation system, which draws water from specific lakes depending on conservation needs, is also impacted by lake levels. Filling from the community’s well—particularly to replenish Lakes A & B—can cost up to $2,000 per inch of water. The improved lake level management is expected to help mitigate those costs moving forward.
Looking Ahead
While this season has brought visible challenges, from thinning lawns to tree removals and dry shorelines, the HOA Board expressed appreciation for residents’ continued patience and promised more updates as the landscaping transition progresses.
As one of West Houston’s most established gated communities, Lakes on Eldridge continues to prioritize maintenance investments that preserve property values and neighborhood beauty—even when weather, contractors, or infrastructure get in the way.
Stay tuned with My Neighborhood News for more updates about community improvements, HOA decisions, and local happenings in Lakes on Eldridge.
Tiffany Krenek has been on the My Neighborhood News team since August 2021. She is passionate about curating and sharing content that enriches the lives of our readers in a personal, meaningful way. A loving mother and wife, Tiffany and her family live in the West Houston/Cypress region.
