On September 5, 2025, ownership of the community’s Carillon Bells will be transferred from Las Sendas to the McShane Bell Company. Founded in 1856, the McShane Bell Company is nationally respected and known for preserving, restoring, and rehoming historic bells. McShane will oversee the future of the Carillon Bells. This decision was reached after years of careful consideration, input from residents, and a thorough financial review by the Las Sendas Board of Directors. This decision was guided by the Community Association's mission to ensure the long-term success of our beautiful community.
BACKGROUND & HISTORY
In 1995, Las Sendas was gifted a set of 48 Carillon Bells by one of the original developers. Hand-cast by the Royal Bell Factory in Holland, the bells were installed on the current I-Beam frame tower, and then later relocated, now residing near the 7th Tee Box at the Las Sendas Golf Course. Over the years, this secluded location on the golf course property gradually became overgrown with trees and bushes, making the bells less visible and difficult for residents to access. In 2008, 24 of the bells were discovered missing and presumed stolen, which reduced the instrument’s range from four octaves to two. Even if restored, the Association would need to replace the 24 missing Carillon Bells to perform the original range of melodies as intended.
The original concept was to build a 60-foot enclosed tower to house the bells, but the plan was never executed. Considering the instrument's condition and the extensive refurbishment required, the Board has carefully evaluated various plans for the bells in conjunction with other community projects and priorities.
In 2019, the Board appointed a Working Group to develop a proposal for the Carillon bells as part of a 5-year Master Plan. The group’s proposal included relocating the bells to Boulder Mountain Parke, building a brand-new tower, and hiring professionals to fully refurbish and restore the bells to working order. At the time, the estimated cost was approximately $300,000 (2019), and there were no funds available for the project. Therefore, in 2020, the Board added a line item to the Reserve Study to allow the community to save for the project. Given rising construction and material costs, updated projections now place the cost closer to $400,000, not including ongoing maintenance and repair costs.
DECISION PROCESS
Although the idea to restore and relocate the bells was discussed in depth over multiple years, the Board ultimately determined that the project, while meaningful, would not be a responsible use of Association resources given current community needs. This conclusion was based on several key considerations:
1. Reserve Funding: The association’s reserve fund remains below the Board’s 70% target. The Board anticipates the need for additional assessment increases in 2026 and 2027, along with a freeze on spending for elective projects to offset rising costs and bring the community closer to a healthy Reserve Fund.
2. Current Community Needs: Ongoing projects such as continuing fire mitigation work, installing irrigation, plant replacement along public roads, maintenance, and more directly serve the residents and require financial resources.
3. Resident Sentiment: Based on ongoing feedback and the current financial standing of the community, the Board recognizes that residents expect the Association to prioritize essential projects and financial stability over elective projects. With the reserve fund remaining below the 70% goal and the projection that the restoration project will meet or exceed $400,000, the Board has determined this approach would best reflect community values and goals.
4. Noise Concerns: When the bells were operational in the past, the Association and the Golf Course received complaints about the noise, with some describing it as “intrusive”. While many residents may enjoy the sound of the bells, the Board expects that other residents would not like the bells chiming near their homes regularly and has taken a community-centered approach to this decision.
5. Future Risk: Continued inaction would likely lead to further loss or deterioration of the bells, reducing the potential of preserving the historic bells
Please note: The Las Sendas Community Association Board is committed to reviewing each proposed project independently, with consideration given to cost, resident input, and alignment with the community’s long-term priorities.
WHAT WILL BE DONE:
The Las Sendas Community Association has a mission to enrich residents’ experiences. In summary, protecting the community’s character, promoting meaningful connections, and financial strength of the community. This decision aligns with that mission by preserving the legacy of the Carillon Bells while supporting the long-term needs of the community.
More information about the Las Sendas Community Association’s mission and vision can be found
here.
Allowing McShane Bell Company to assume ownership of the bells will contribute $30,000 to the Association’s Reserves. In addition to ensuring the restoration and rehoming of the Carillon bells, this solution avoids a $400,000 community restoration and relocation project. These savings will reduce financial pressure and allow the association to continue focusing on projects that directly impact residents.
FUTURE OF THE BELLS
As stated above, on September 5, 2025, the Carillon Bells will be entrusted to McShane Bell Company. The Las Sendas Board understands the history and significance the bells hold for many residents and made this decision with the intention to protect and allow them to be cherished. The complete remaining set will be offered to potential institutional buyers. If necessary, they will divide the bells into two octaves, allowing clients to enjoy a full tune. If the bells cannot be sold in two octaves, individual bells will likely find new homes in churches, universities, or even private residences, where they can be properly maintained and appreciated for years to come.
While it may take up to two years for the rehoming process to be completed, residents can be assured that the bells will never be discarded or end up in a scrapyard. The Board is excited about this opportunity for the Carillon Bells to be appreciated anew, ensuring their legacy continues to resonate in the community.
The Board appreciates the community’s engagement and welcomes any questions about the transition. As always, our goal is to serve Las Sendas by upholding our mission to protect and enhance the vision to be The Valley of the Sun’s most desired community. ______________
VIEW VIDEO PRESENTATION HERE:
