City History

Highland Haven began as a subdivision developed by Jones & Pike Real Estate in 1962. Deed restrictions and covenants were established by the developer. In December of 1976 the majority of property owners voted to be controlled by an incorporated nonprofit property-owners’ association.

The elected Board of Directors of the Highland Haven Property Owners Association (HHPOA) were entrusted with the responsibility of road and park maintenance, mowing, maintaining restrictions set up by Mr. Pike, collection of funds, and any other such matters related to the Highland Haven Subdivision.

Over a period of time, the HHPOA acquired title to six parks, over two acres of land, several storage sheds and RV shelters, and the building now used as the City Hall.

The HHPOA instituted several changes to deed restrictions over the years. The Community Center was built in 1985, expanded in 1998, and is operated by the HHPOA.

HHPOA activities are funded through donations and the rental of storage sheds and RV, boat and boat trailer storage spaces, as well as facility rental of the Community Center.

The responsibilities of HHPOA were reduced significantly with the incorporation of the City of Highland Haven in 1995.

The association is no longer responsible for street maintenance, assessment collection or enforcement of deed restrictions.

Highland Haven was incorporated as a Type A General Law Municipality on November 5, 1995, and operates under a Mayor-Council form of government consisting of a Mayor and five City Aldermen (or council members).

The City assumed responsibility for street maintenance, building codes, adoption and enforcement of ordinances affecting the welfare and safety of citizens, budget creation and administration. In 2009, the City purchased and now administers the local water system under the name Highland Haven Water System.

City expenses are funded through a city property tax. The building now used as City Hall was donated to the City of Highland Haven by the HHPOA.

John Josefy was our first mayor, serving from 1995 until 1998. He was followed by John Heath, 1998-1999, Jake Kalisvaart 2000-2004 and Roscoe Holt 2004-2006.

In January 2007, the Board of Alderman under Mayor Peter Freehill, passed a resolution naming City Hall after Roscoe Holt, who gave tirelessly to the community as an elected official and volunteer.

Mayor Pete Freehill served the community from 2007 to 2014. Irene Dauphin, our first female mayor, served 2014-2015. She was followed in June 2015 by Olan Kelley, who is our current Mayor.

Toward the end of Highland Drive, as it intersects with Quail Dr., the City of Highland Haven ends. The area beyond this is known as the Nobles Addition. We consider the residents of Nobles part of our community, appreciate their volunteer contributions and include them in neighborhood social activities. They are not, however, governed by the City and are not official members of the POA.