July 19, 2025
Dear Incline Pines Homeowners,
Please know that I have been continuously communicating with BurnBot through project manager Alexis “Lex” Nelson. Last week I asked her to come to the site so we could make her aware of the concerns we were hearing from homeowners. I, too, was shocked by the appearance of the property– especially after the handcrew had been here. She told me this was not unusual.
HOA board member Susan Schwerd and I attended the walkthrough with Lex last week. She assured us they would focus on areas where a fire could start in the low brush and then jump to the larger trees.
They were not supposed to take any ornamental plants (planted by owners), and they were not allowed by TRPA to remove any riparian (water holding) plants. Although in some cases an ornamental plant was cut down, overall they took out the most dangerous plants. The majority of the plants removed were only in the common area.
Lex told us their goal was to make our property one that firefighters would prioritize in a serious wildfire. They often skip homes and properties where adequate defensible space steps have not been taken.
Lex assured Susan and me on our walkthrough the project still needs to be finished– which includes crews going back over the entire property, raking and blowing the roads and walkways. They could be here for at least another week.
Please see this letter with her summary of the project and what comes next.
Thanks to everyone for your patience and understanding. If you have more questions I have invited Lex to attend our next HOA Board meeting on Aug. 6.
Sincerely,
Heidi Burton
Incline Pines HOA President