Ford's Colony HOA at Williamsburg. A residential community in Williamsburg, Virginia

0. Community Link Portal

How do I search to find someone in the Portal's Member Directory?

In the Member Directory, click on the [Filter] button and enter what information you have to find the person(s).

Fields:

Name: Enter all or part of the person's first or last name. The resident chooses what shows in the Directory, so they may have entered their full name or nickname.

Email: Enter all or part of the email address.

Address: Enter all or part of the street address. To list all addresses for a street, just enter the street name.

Not all homeowners will show in the Member Directory - only those that have chosen to show their information.
How do I manage what shows on the Community Link Portal’s Member Directory for my household?
To control how your information is presented in the “Member Directory”:
- Log into your Community Link Portal
- Click on “My Proﬁle” in the left side, blue pane of the dashboard
- Next, click on the [Privacy Settings] button in the “Settings” block
- Check the boxes to control what shows for you in the “Member Directory
  - Click on the "Include in Directory" selection
  - Then to hide any info, click on the selection(s) to hide specific items.
It should look like the image above to show all information in the directory.
How do I ensure that I will continue to get the What’s Happening in Ford’s Colony and Official emails from the Ford’s Colony HOA?
Click on the [Preferences] button in the “Settings” block:
- Check the box for “I wish to receive Newsletters, updates and promotions” This is recommended, because you may miss information about Ford’s Colony business and happenings if this is not checked.
- The other items in this box are not active at this time.
- [Save]
NOTE: The Save button for this box is green and may not show at the bottom of the box if your screen resolution is set to more than 100%. Change your device’s resolution to 100% and you will be able to click on the green Save button.
In My Profile, how do I save my choices in the Preferences box?

The Preferences box, which has the newsletter check box, is sensitive to the resolution of the user's device. It seems to not show all of the box if the resolution is higher than 100%. If you can see a bit of green on the lower left part of the box - that is the Save button and you may be able to click on it without changing your device's resolution. If not, change the resolution to 100%, save your choice in the Portal, then change the resolution back to what you prefer. Other option - email admin@fchoa.net and ask them to do it for you.
How do I post a Classified Ad to the Portal?
In order to post a Classified add:
- Login to your Community Link Portal account
- Click on “Classified” in the left, blue pane
- Click on “+ Add New”
- Follow prompts
  - Title = simple name of item plus price [Toaster $10]
  - Category = select from list
  - Description = description of item plus contact information [Very nice toaster, never used. Call or text 555-555-5555]
  - Start Date = defaults to today, but can be changed to future date
    
    Ads run on the Portal for 30 days after which resident must create a new ad
  - Upload = Click on [Choose File] to select file for photo
  - [Save]
Submitter can edit or delete their ad by clicking on title in the list of ads.
How do I find new Classified Ads on the Portal without reading through them all?

When in the Classified section of the Community Link Resident Portal, type in the date(s) on the search bar. You will see listed ads entered on that date or dates.

Enter "06/24" to see ads entered on 6/24, type "06/2" to see ads entered from 6/20 thru 6/29, type "06" to see ads entered in June.
I can't find the email inviting me to Register for the Portal. What can I do?
- in the “Login Name” field, enter the email address that you provided when you purchased your property as the main accounting contact, then click on “Initial Login?”. This will take you to the Registration screen where you will create your Login Name and Password for the Portal.
- Email admin@fchoa.net and ask them to send you a new Registration email.
Why can't I find someone in the Portal's Member Directory?

There are 2 possible reasons:

1. The person has not registered for the Community Link Resident Portal

2. The person has requested to not be shown in the Directory
How do I change my Password for my CommunityLink Portal?

Log into your Portal. Click on "My Profile" in the left menu. Under "Settings", click on "Change Logi/Password". Enter your new password and click [Save].

If you have forgotten your password, click on "Forgot Password?" under the Login block on the fchoa.org Home page.
How do I change how my contact information shows in the Portal Member Directory?

Click here for instructions manage how your contact information shows in the Ford's Colony Community Link Portal Member Directory.
How do I Register for the Community Link Portal?

Click here for instructions to register for your Ford's Colony Community Link Portal.
What can I do if I forgot my Community Link Portal Password?

Click here for instructions if you forgot your Ford's Colony Community Link Portal login name and or password.
How do I vote on the Portal?

· Login to your Portal

· Click on “Elections” on the left, blue block

· Find the election title on the list

· Click on the green [Vote Now] button in the “Vote Status” column

· Use the [Next], [Prev], and [Last] buttons to move back and forth through the election items

· The first 1 or 2 items are standard voting options required per our governing documents.

· Select your choices as directed.

· When you have made your selection on all items, click on the [Confirm Vote] button to finalize your choices.

· You will be shown a summary of your selections, then click on the [Vote] button

· You will see “Congratulations! Your vote has been accepted.” on the next screen.

· If you wish to print for your records:

o Hold down the [Ctrl] or [Cmd] key on your keyboard, then hit the [P] key

· Click on the “Home” icon on the left, blue block to exit the vote.

· You will receive an email from eUnify confirming your household’s vote.
COMMUNITY LINK MOBILE APP - How do I save/submit an online form?

On the mobile app, click on the floppy disk icon on the upper right of the form to save/submit.

1. FCHOA Website

Why did my event not show up in the Upcoming Events box?

If your event does not appear, it may be waiting for approval. If it is not approved, you will be notified of the reason. Also, only the next four chronologically scheduled events will appear in the box on the Home page. You have to select the ‘View All Events’ link to see additional items. Once your event passes its scheduled date, it will be removed from the website.
How do I navigate the fchoa.org website?
The website is divided into the following sections which are accessible by clicking on the buttons in the navigation panel at the top of this and every page:
- HOME
- ABOUT US
- RESOUCES
- LIFESTYLE
- AMENITIES
- CONTACT US
Three of these sections (ABOUT US, RESOURCES, and LIFESTYLE) are further subdivided into more functional areas, available through drop down menus. Just click on the page you want to open.
You can log into your Community Link Resident Portal from the “Welcome!” section of the Home page.
How do I find out about available activities at Ford's Colony?

Upcoming Events are listed on the HOMEPAGE of our website and via link in the weekly "What’s Happening in Ford’s Colony" email newsletter. The HOA Facebook page, Ford’s Colony Living, also has information on upcoming events.
How do I get an updated copy of the resident directory?

The Homeowner Directory is available on the Community Link Portal. You may also request a copy from Community Services for a small fee, at communityservices@fchoa.net or 757-258-4230.
What are the requirements for an event to be posted in the 'Upcoming Events' box on Home page of this website?

The event must be available to all Ford’s Colony residents. No commercial or charity events will be posted.
How do I submit an event to be included in the 'Upcoming Events' box?

Select the ‘View All Events’ link at the bottom of the ‘Upcoming Events’ box on the Home page. Then select the ‘Add New Event’ at the top of the displayed events. This will take you to a form and instructions for submission of an upcoming event.
Is my information on this website private?

Absolutely! Ford's Colony HOA is committed to keeping your personal information private. Ford's Colony HOA will not sell, distribute, or share any personal information you provide. Any personal information we possess will be used for the sole purpose of administering the relationship between yourself and Ford's Colony HOA. Please review our full website policies for more information.

As of June, 2024, your contact information was moved from the fchoa.org website to the Community Link Resident Portal. There, you have the option of restricting which parts of your information are displayed on the Portal. See FAQs under the “Community Link Portal” section for more information.
Where can I get a map of the property?

Community Services has large maps of Ford's Colony to purchase for $3. To get to the Maps of Ford's Colony on this website first click on 'Residents' at the top of this page, select 'Directories' from the drop down menu, then scroll down to 'Ford's Colony Map'.

2. 'Talk of the Colony'

How do I get something in the Talk of the Colony, and who controls the review process?

The focus of the Talk of the Colony is to inform Ford’s Colony property owners of the business of the Ford’s Colony Homeowners Association (FCHOA) and community activities. It is not designed to publicize events or activities generally available in the local media. Articles for the magazine may be submitted by the FCHOA Board of Directors, the Management Agent, standing or ad hoc committees, and residents.

Articles should be written in a positive style and not be demeaning or divisive. They should be factual and not mere expressions of opinion. Articles must be submitted by the 5th of each month in MS Word format to the production assistant at talkofthecolony@fchoa.net. Authors must include their name, telephone number, and email address with all articles and photos submitted.

The Board of Directors has assigned responsibility for soliciting, producing, reviewing, and editing the content of the Talk of the Colony to the Communications Committee.
What guidelines should I be following if I want to contribute an article to the Talk of the Colony?

A Style Guide has been created by the Communication Committee. Click on "ABOUT US" then on the TALK OF THE COLONY selection. In the first paragraph, there is a link to the Style Guide. It will display the guidelines to be used for the Talk of the Colony and on the website.
Where can I submit a charity event with which I am involved?

A charity event for the benefit of an organization qualified under IRS 501-(c)(3) or like status can be submitted by a Ford’s Colony resident by sending an email with the event’s name, date, time, location, cost, and Ford’s Colony contact to talkofthecolony@fchoa.net or call the Activities & Recreation Manager’s office at 757-258-4270.

Event information must be received no later than the 5th of the month for publication in the next month’s edition. Events will be published only one time. The decision of the editors to include or not to include the event is final.

3. Community Services

How do I find out additional information about renting the Swim & Tennis Club?

Contact Activities & Recreation Manager at 757-258-4270 or use the ‘Contact Us’ tab.
I am planning to sell my property and will need to get a disclosure package. - How do I obtain one?

Virginia State Law requires that the seller of property provide a disclosure package to a buyer. Community Services provides this package for you. The Resale Disclosure Request form (found on the Community Link Resident Portal and titled “REQUEST – Disclosure Package”) can be submitted or you can stop in at 100 Manchester Drive. There is a $281.28 charge ($264.08 for electronic version) and it will be ready within a 14-day period allowed by law.
If I want to: paint my home, take down a dead tree on my lot, put on an addition, add to my landscaping, put in a satellite dish, or add a fence - What do I need to do?

Call Community Services at 757-258-4230 to assist you with these concerns or use the “Contact Us” tab. They will provide you with any forms that may be needed to receive approval from the Architectural Review Committee (ARC).
There's a home under construction on my street. I'd really like to see the plans. Can I do that?

All plans are available for viewing at the Community Services Office. Give them a call at 757-258-4230 to let them know and the plans will be available when you arrive. They do not allow plans to leave the office and do not allow photo-copying due to possible copyright violations.
Who do I contact to register a concern about a problem in my neighborhood?

If the problem is controlled or caused by a neighbor, you should first try to resolve the issue by talking to that neighbor. Most of the time, a friendly chat is more effective than a call or visit from the "authorities." Issues such as trees that appear to endanger people or property, streetlight outages, damaged street signs should be addressed to Community Services at 757-258-4230, or submit a "REQUEST - Covenant Concern Investigation" form on your Portal. The question will then be directed to the appropriate staff member.

More immediate issues, such as suspicious activity or pet nuisances, should be referred to Security at 757-258-4080. An officer should be able to respond within a very short period of time.

The most efficient means of dealing with telephone, power outages, water and sewer problems, refuse removal concerns, and the like, is to call the appropriate utility company. The vast majority of problems in this area are not known by or under the control of the Community Services or Security Department personnel. Direct contact by the affected homeowner with the responsible agency is most appropriate. A list of many of these local area contacts is available in the Area Guide section.

4. Living in Ford's Colony

How can I find out what the Board of Directors and the various volunteer committees are doing?

All residents and property owners are invited to attend any meeting of the Board. Each meeting is announced through an official email which includes the agenda. The schedule is also included as part of the Board of Directors Meeting Calendar on page 2 of every Talk of the Colony magazine, and on this website under "Home" and then "Calendar". Regular Board meetings are generally held at 2 p.m. every fourth Thursday of the month. Additionally, Town Hall meetings are held in the evening one or more times a year, notice is given via FCHOA magazine and emails. Minutes of Board and Committee Meetings are available at the Community Services Office and on the Community Link Resident Portal under "Documents".
How do I change my mailing address?

Contact Community Services at 757-258-4230 with the new information, or use "Contact Us" on fchoa.org.
How many homes are in Ford's Colony?

There are over 2,700 homes currently built in Ford's Colony. Most lots are sold and are privately owned. At build-out there should be about 3,000 homes in Ford's Colony.
I've heard that there are outdoor watering restrictions in effect. Where can I find out what they are and whether they apply to me?

From May 1 to September 30 of every year, there are restrictions that help the County manage water demand. These restrictions may be modified from time to time, it is best to check the most current information available on the County's website at jamescitycountyva.gov. You may also call the County at 757-253-6728.
What are the assessment fees for property owners?

To see the current FCHOA assessment charge click on RESIDENTS, then select PAY ASSESSMENTS. These charges are billed quarterly, and may be prepaid. There are additional charges for sub-associations.
What are the ways to pay my HOA Assessments?
Here is a summary of the ways that FCHOA owners can make their assessment payments.
- Truist ACH - Automated ACH (Automated Clearing House) can be enrolled in by filling out the form that comes with every quarterly invoice and returning it to Truist. This draw is initiated by Truist and will always be updated to cover the balance due on the account.
- Making Payment at a Truist Location - FCHOA assessment payments can be paid at any Truist bank location. Truist has locations in New Town, Lightfoot, McLaws Circle and off of Second Street. Just bring your stub from the quarterly bill (this is a must) and pay by check or card at the Truist bank of your choice, even Truist locations in other areas or other states. You do not need to bank with Truist for them to assist you. Payment by check is free. Payment by card adds a processing fee.
- Making Payment on the Truist Website - The link to the Truist site is in the eUnify Portal (in the LINKS block) and on fchoa.org (under the RESOURCES tab). You do not need to bank with Truist to use this site and it is available 24/7. Payment by electronic check is free. Payment by card adds a processing fee. Paying online requires the Bill Pay Number, Serial Number and Unit Number information from your invoice.
- Process Payment in Your Online Banking Bill Pay Platform - Payments to FCHOA can be done like you pay your other bills in your online banking system. When doing this, please enter the Bill Pay Number as your account number so that the payment from your bank is transmitted as an electronic payment. If you use any other number as the account number, your bank will mail a payment to the lockbox and there can be delays and lost checks. If you have been using this method for a long time, it might be good to check that your Bill Pay Number is the account number in the system and make that update if necessary.
- Making Payment on the Zego Platform - The link to Zego is the green button in the Portal that says Pay Now in the eUnify Portal. There are fees for electronic checks, credit and debit cards.
- Deliver Payment to the Community Services Office - There is a white box on the exterior of the office in which you can place your payment. There is also a white mailbox on the counter in the office in which you can place the payment.
- Mail Payment to the Lockbox Address on the Invoice Stub - Payments can be mailed to the address on the invoice stub.
We are pleased to offer these methods for your convenience. If you have any questions related to this information, please email admin@fchoa.net or complete the “Ask Your FCHOA” form on your Portal. Thank you for being so attentive to making your assessment payments each quarter.
What is the number to Community Services, Swim & Tennis, Project Maintenance?

Community Services: 757-258-4230
Swim & Tennis: 757-258-4270
Project Maintenance: 757-258-4230
When is the pool open? Do I have to sign in? How many guests may I bring with me?

The schedule for the pools will be published in the Talk of the Colony and on the Home page of the website, but they are usually open from Memorial Day weekend to Labor Day weekend. Everyone must register in the sign-in book, located at the podium or at the Lifeguard Office. Up to three guests may be registered by a resident or property owner who is at least 18 years old.

Click here for the complete copy of the Facilities & Amenities Rules and Regulations.
Who do I call if a sprinkler head in my yard burst?

If a sprinkler head burst, contact your irrigation specialist. If you cannot contact your irrigation company, you can call JCSA to temporarily cut off your water.
Who do I contact if a water line to my home burst?

If a water line bursts, contact JCSA. The resident would then have to contact a plumber.
Who do I contact if I have a tree that has fallen in my yard?

Disclaimer: This is not legal advice. What follows is how we approach situations, that is based on the advice we have received from legal counsel. In general, when a tree falls from someone else’s property onto your property, the portion of the tree that falls onto your property is your responsibility. The portion that remains on the other property is their responsibility. This may change if your neighbor’s tree was dead or diseased, and your neighbor breached a duty to remove the tree.

In general, you have the right to trim to the property line the portion of any tree that hangs over onto your property. In extreme cases, encroaching trees and plants may be regarded as a nuisance when they cause actual harm or pose an imminent danger of actual harm to adjoining property. If so, the owner of the tree or plant may be held responsible for harm caused to the adjoining property, and may also be required to cut back the encroaching branches or roots, assuming the encroaching vegetation constitutes a nuisance. This was the finding in Fancher v. Fagella, which some people believe changed the law.

The FCHOA will always attend to situations where a tree in a common area poses a danger to private property. Some equate an easement to a common area; that is not always the case. Every lot has easements, but not every lot adjoins common property. Unless a tree on private property is in imminent danger of falling and causing damage to adjoining property, the FCHOA does not get involved. Even then, the Association has the right, but not the duty, to do so. These are neighbor-to-neighbor issues unless the Association exercises its right to self-help.
You've said that if the FCHOA closes a road due to flooding, it's not negotiable. How will emergency vehicles get through?

Flooding over our major roads is a very uncommon event. Our emphasis during such events is to ensure the safety of our community, both in preventing traffic from venturing into water which is capable of moving vehicles off the road, and in making sure that authorities can respond to emergencies. Emergency vehicles are designed to be able to traverse through snow, over rough terrain, and through significant amounts of water. Their frames are high and their weight is such that they are not subject to hydroplaning like cars, trucks, SUVs, and even vehicles like a Hummer. The emergency vehicles will be able to get through.

5. Security

How do I get a gate card for my son who lives in Richmond? It's easier for him to come into Ford's Colony through one of the electronic gates.

A "family use" gate card may be purchased from Security for a nominal fee. Gate card issuance is controlled via a Board-approved "gate card policy". Currently each household is issued one gate card for each vehicle they have registered in VA. You can purchase one additional gate card for friends or relatives.
What are the penalties for speeding and how can one appeal a penalty?

First, the appeal process: In accordance with State law, a resident/property owner has the right to request a hearing before the Association's Hearing Tribunal. The FCHOA Bylaws designates the Covenants Committee as this entity. The resident/property owner potentially in violation may produce statements, evidence, and witnesses at the hearing and they may be represented by Counsel. Should they not request a hearing within ten calendar days of their notice, their right to be heard is waived. Requests for appeal are to be made in writing and emailed to speedworkinggroup@fchoa.net or delivered to the FCHOA Chief of Security at 100 Manchester Dr., Williamsburg, VA 23188.
To review the speeding policy, click here.
What authority do the Security Officers have regarding traffic regulation enforcement?

Ford’s Colony Security Mobile patrol officers are Special Conservators of the Peace. Special Conservators of the Peace are law enforcement officers that have met the minimum law enforcement training requirements for initial and in-service training established by the Department of Criminal Justice Services and have completed all requirements under VA State code 19.2-13. They are then appointed by a James City County/Williamsburg circuit court judge to serve in the jurisdiction of Ford’s Colony at Williamsburg in James City County. Therefore any person that has received a visible signal to bring his/her vehicle to a stop but willfully disregards such a signal or who attempts to escape or elude such a law enforcement officer is guilty of a class 2 misdemeanor. These officers, if attempting to stop you, are doing so under the authority from the State of Virginia to maintain the safety of our Ford’s Colony community.
What do I do if my power, cable or phones go out?

Security can provide emergency numbers; however, residents must call the service provider directly to provide the companies with their personal information.
What is James City County's non-emergency number?

JCC non-emergency number is 757-566-0112.
What time are contractors allowed to start working?

Contractors working at homes under construction can start work at 7 a.m. through 7 p.m., Monday through Thursday and Friday and Saturday 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. On Sunday, contractors can only do interior work.
Where can I find a form to request security checks of my home while I'm out of town?

On the Community Link Resident Portal, scroll down the left, blue menu and click on “REQUEST FORMS”. In the dropdown menu, select "REQUEST - Housecheck". Fill in the form, then click [Save] to submit. The Security staff will receive your request by email.
Which gate should my moving truck come in?

Moving trucks should enter by way of the Manchester Guardhouse during normal business hours. When the Manchester Guardhouse is closed, moving trucks may enter by way of the John Pott Guardhouse.
Who do I contact if my yard is flooded?

If your yard is flooded due to a drain being clogged, contact Security at 757-258-4080. Security will take your name and number and contact Project Maintenance. If Project Maintenance is closed, Security will check the drains.
Who do I contact to find out what roads are closed inside and outside Ford's Colony?

If roads in Ford’s Colony are closed or entrances are closed, the John Pott Guardhouse will have a list of all closures. To obtain information on roads that are closed outside of Ford’s Colony you can contact VDOT by dialing 511 or check Traffic Alerts on the www.511Virginia.org website.
Why are the speed limits in Ford's Colony so low?

The limit is set by the State of Virginia, code 46.2-874 “the maximum speed shall be 25 mile per hour on highways in business or residence districts…”. Speed regulations and speed limits are intended to supplement motorists' judgment in determining speeds that are reasonable and proper for particular weather and road conditions. Residential areas or towns often have lower speed limits than highways or major streets, because residential areas have more pedestrians and places to stop along the roadway.
Why do James City County police cars sometimes set up radar check points inside Ford's Colony?

In 1996 JCCPD was requested by the Board of Directors to assist the Ford’s Colony Security department in reducing speeding and enforcing the speed limit in Ford’s Colony.