Following are some facts concerning the controversy in Sedgefield Lakes described in your article of March 8.

The homeowner's association (SELCO) is attempting to impose a restrictive covenant on the community. SELCO maintains that the covenant is necessary to maintain the property. This is false. Since 1956, we've had a voluntary association, which has supplied all of the necessary funding.

Fiscal 2004 was a typical year in which expenses totaled $9,079 while dues from the 107 members totaled $18,725, an excess of $9,646. At the end of the year, the treasury balance was $30,000. SELCO, under the voluntary membership, is in excellent financial health.

Under the new system, a property owner who wishes to enjoy the amenities we now have would be forced to sign a covenant that subjects the property to liens. Those of us who have been dues-paying members for decades will be kicked out if we don't sign. The injustice is obvious.

The SELCO spokesman states that 49 members have signed, but 74 are needed to meet expenses. Amazingly, we had 107 members in 2004 but are now trying to get 74. The irrationality of this scheme is obvious.

It's time that SELCO obey the adage: "If it ain't broke, don't fix it."

E.H. "Zeke" Hull
Greensboro