I had the opportunity to meet with two of the association members to discuss the unused flag pole in the cul-de-sac.  Apparently the property of the cul-de-sac is actually Rick and Sue (next door neighbors and me) along with a small portion that is the right of way for the local road commission.  I suggested that we remove the flag pole and update the landscape to something that required less maintenance (like a few pine trees). It all was readily accepted and I started contacting local companies that might be able to remove the pole.