Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Great Harbors Residents Association?

The Great Harbors Residents Association is a not-for-profit community organization meant to develop and maintain the athletic, recreational, and social facilities within the community.

How much does it cost to join?

If you are not already covered by the covenant, the cost is $3500 per household. Over 95% of the homes in the community are members of GHRA.

What are the Annual Membership and User fees?

Mandatory Membership Dues for 2009 are $187. User fees and passes for use of the facilities are available for an additional cost for members in good standings. See the 2009 profile sheet for details.

Will the User and Membership fees be going up next year?

Membership fees are increased by the amount of the Consumer Price Index (CPI, or inflation) and will likely rise by a modest amount next year to track inflation. User fees are set annually for the following year.

How can I get involved with Great Harbors initiatives?

Great Harbors operations and projects are currently managed and implemented entirely by volunteer residents. Residents volunteer their time formally - by joining the Board of Directors for a term, or informally - by doing work with or for a committee. Contact any Board of Directors member, or attend a Board of Director's Meeting on the third Saturday of each month at 9:30 at the clubhouse to learn more about the association.

Who should be notified in case of a change of address?

The Great Harbors Clerk. See the "Contacts" page on this website for contact information.

When does the GH Newsletter go out?

Bi-annually, in the Spring and Fall.

Does the Covenant dictate things like house color, etc.?

No. The majority of the community felt that the Covenant should not have that level of detail.

Whom should I contact about issues related to the roads or drainage?

The GHRA Board of Directors.

What issues should I bring to the Town of Falmouth for resolution instead of the GHRA?

The town should be asked to resolve any issue that any other resident of the Town of Falmouth might have, such as trash collection, unrestrained animals, noisy neighbors, etc. The GHRA is focused on recreation and community activities.

I am interested in purchasing a home in Great Harbors. How can I determine whether the seller is a member of the Association and is current with dues and any assessments?

You or your attorney should inquire directly with the GHRA to determine the status of a particular property. Those properties that did not choose to renew the covenant (at no cost to them) or join the Association when the prior covenants expired are now subject to a $3,500 initiation fee. Overdue assessments and back dues are linked to the parcel of land, not the owner. Make sure that you know whether the property is in good standing prior to closing.

Does the town provide basic services within Great Harbors even though the roads are private?

Yes, the town plows and picks up trash within Great Harbors.

When does the Great Harbors summer season begin and end?

The season offically starts the last Sunday in June (the day after the annual meeting of the Association) and ends on the Sunday of Labor Day weekend.

How do I get a key to the tennis courts?

If you are a member in good standing, and would like to use the 3rd tennis court during the off season, a key can be acquired by contacting Emily Heald.

How do I rent the Clubhouse?

Members can rent the Clubhouse for a nominal fee. Please contact Peg McGaffigan for the rental form and to make sure the date is available. Remember, the Clubhouse must be left in the same condition after the rental. It's for all of GHRA to enjoy, so please be respectful.

How can I check my status on the dock waiting list?

If you are currently on the dock list, you can get your current status by checking the list that is at the toll house or by stopping by for the monthly BoD meetings. Keep in mind that only a few docks are turning over annually, and there are currently around 40 people on the waiting list. If you would like to added to the waiting list, please send a letter to the GHRA Clerk, PO Box 988, East Falmouth, MA 02536. You must be a member in full standing to be added to the waiting list.

Are there any other social groups within Great Harbors?

There are several; The Women's Club, The Men's Club, and a Neighborhood Watch group are a few. These groups always welcome new members!

Can renters use the facilities?

If the homeowner that you rented from is a member in good standing, and all current dues are paid, then renters can take advantage of the association facilities for an additional fee that should be paid in advance of the summer season.

If I intend to rent my property, do I have to pay the Facilities Fee, even if I do not intend to use the facilities myself?

Yes, and it will be between the landlord and the renter who pays for the additional weekly renter fees.

How much do renters pay?

Renters pay $160 for a family of six per week if the passes are purchased by the landlord prior to 6/15, $200 if purchased by the landlord after 6/15. Walkup renters who wish to use the facilities pay $250/week for a family of six. In either case it is an additional $25 per week for each additional person over the six person limit.