A group calling themselves “COOL” mailed me a thank you letter. The first thanks was for the help last March in electing a Board of Directors that has been able to work together.

Their perception that our “08” Board lacked in their abilities to function and perform their expected tasks might lead one to believe this Board had also a professed lack of accomplishments? Such an assumption usually holds true but when one takes the time to compare our 2007-08-09 minutes, they find that this so called dysfunctional Board accomplished as much if not more than the former or ensuing boards respectfully.
In addition one might even marvel at how this bunch of misfits saved our Village more money than they spent and finished their fervent year with leaving more than $50,000 in the budget.
As a rule Directors of our Board quickly relinquished their honorary position when subjected to obstacles that become personal or intentionally designed to limit their abilities. A remarkable resilience was shown by our six “08” Directors when they all decided quitting was not an option on issues they knew would better our Village. The best examples were the replacement of the GM, our licensed Security, and the new Time Warner cable company and its contract.
The “08” Board can be best described as incompatible but never dysfunctional. What the Board lacked socially was more than made up for in the physical and financial Village enhancements done under their watch. Now “COOL” wants to thank me for replacing those who stood their ground for the like-minded people who seem happy to fit under the President's thumb and become a Social Club of Directors.
Go figure?


The second thanks in the “COOL” letter was for the help last March in electing a Board of Directors that has been able to work with management.
Now this confused me a little. Is the “COOL” talking about being able to work with that previous general manager who quit a month after the elections leaving the Park high and dry for three months or is it being able to work with a replacement, something those six previous Directors was sued over for originally trying to orchestrate? If it’s Rick Horner, save the thanks. Any mentally challenged Board member could work well with him because he happens to be a people person. He exhibits no accountability hang-ups and has outstanding management skills, the very qualities six “08” Directors went through hell in wanting to work with.


The final thanks were for electing a Board of Directors that has been able to solve some problems we were experiencing.
Putting aside Hurricane Dolly, weren’t these six Directors branded as being the biggest problems when they threatened replacement consequences on our former GM if he didn’t become accountable for his actions and raise his job performance to levels as per Aramark’s contract by an appointed time? Wasn’t that the reason why our Association wasted tens of thousands of dollars towards the silly Priest/Mulch lawsuit designed to idle their replacement threat?

Should not this letter better read “COOL wanted to thank you for your help last March in electing our people who will never bring up the word accountability while also solving some “COOL” problems?”
You make that call!

Below is a précis as to how the obstacle laden 2008 events unfolded

MARCH 2008 ELECTIONS
March 26th (meeting) Four newly elected directors immediately acted upon their campaign promises with making Aramark management more accountable. Management was told to fulfill their obligations to care for our common ground-golf course areas per Aramark’s contract. The Board issued new measures requiring the use of new comprehensive checklists and a change in work order performance actualities.
April 23rd (meeting) Immediately following an executive session, a motion was made to send a letter to Aramark requesting the replacement of the current GM. After some lewd and intimidating audience behavior and one GM supporting Director hinting of possible legal action due to lack of having evaluation records, two directors decided to wait. This led the Board to vote (5-4) at tabling this “Letter” motion for 60 days.
May 2nd (special meeting) This same 5-4 vote approved a new motion to start the general manager on a 90 day evaluation.
May 28th (meeting) The GM replacement letter motion was withdrawn.
June 26th (meeting) Senior Director Pat Burke accused newly elected Director Ed McBride at violating a recent agreement that said no one was to forward manager accountability issues to Aramark. Senior Director Leroy Mulch followed with saying there are persons presently on the Board and a minority of others who interpret the results of this year’s elections as a mandate to fire the GM and Aramark.
Reta Priest began her three Director Recall petition for their part in advocating the GM letter of replacement.
Every new director along with any supporters soon received anonymous personal attacks. One example was a Director’s court file being flaunted about the Village containing personal events of a long ago messy divorce. With it was the claimed that this was public information for everyone to see and a good reason for his removal.
July 22nd (event) Hurricane Dolly hits our Village and added a slew of new issues for the Board.
August 27th (meeting) A staged recall petition submittal by Reta Priest caused an immediate recess to this Hurricane agenda filled meeting. There was a request for a recall petition validation evaluation. No Board issues were addressed because of this submission.
September 4th (8/27 meeting continuance) Village legal counsel ruled the entire recall petition invalid. To Note: unfounded details and bogus numbers from this invalid petition still fill two pages of the Minutes. Why?
September 26th (meeting) Weeks after submitting an unsuccessful invalid recall petition, Reta Priest along with senior Director Leroy Mulch filed a lawsuit against the six elected Directors who originally supported the April GM replacement letter costing many thousands of dollars to our Association. Once again an agenda filled meeting was postponed. This lawsuit imposed restrictions on these six directors for the rest of their term.
2009 Court Imposed March Election During this lawsuit tainted "09" election, Villagers received propaganda letters and telephone follow-ups by Reta Priest and a group calling themselves the “COOL”, advocating certain candidates and vying for control of the election’s “proxy” bloc votes.
2009 March Re-Election Summary There were an unprecedented number of total votes with the bulk coming from bloc vote proxies that interestingly increased nearly threefold from previous years.

Result These events in 2008 divided our Village in ways yet resolved. Again this was all over six Board member's insistence that an Aramark manager should improve upon his performance per Aramark’s contract standards and demonstrate accountability for actions. Tens of thousands of your owner dollars were thrown away over an unmeritorious lawsuit calling these Directors actions a breach of fiduciary duties. Insurance agent Rick May said at our March "09" Coffee meeting that the Village insurance premiums will now go up for the Directors and Officers Liability policy.

It seems ironic that we had every director wanting management accountability replaced.
Did the tail wag the dog this time?
I feel as you may that these extraordinary events should never be forgotten if only to keep it from ever happening again. These “COOL” people should receive a thank you letter from Village owners for their helpful reminder of these past events.

Highlights of 2007 Board Accomplishments
March 28th a motion passed to change golf rate as suggested by the Golf Committee, a motion passed to add a 4 month rate to Renters, a motion passed to purchase 75 banquet tables for $4,050, a motion passed to lease new exercise equipment and sell existing old equipment rather than try to keep present equipment in good repair
April 25th a motion passed to add all motorized vehicles and all bicycles shall comply with the above speed limits and shall be required to come to a stop at all stop signs in the Village to #5 of the Rules & Regulations,
May 23rd this was a special meeting about Dick Stabler's resignation from the Long Island Village, Long Island Owners Association (Bridge), Newsletter, Beautification, D & E Committees/Boards over a possible dispute with the GM.
May 23rd a motion passed for the Board to approve the Policies as the Rule & Policy Committee has written them, a motion passed to use $5000 of Golf fund raisers to concrete golf paths, Director Nixon said he was upset that the Board lost a good person (Stabler) because of management business issues, a motion passed to add a pool limit of 8 people per lot to the summer in Door/Out Door Pool Regulations
June 27th a motion passed to approve the installation of the golf path from the golf budget with the balance to be paid for by the golf committee, a motion passed that this item be considered maintenance, a motion passed to establish an emergency/reserve fund for the 2008 Budget, a motion passed that any item regarding any communication from the attorney, variance requests, hearings, or issues thereof should be placed on the agenda for regular Board of Directors meeting for purpose of record.
July 1 from a motion passed on Feb. 28th to increase the condo fee dues by $20 started
per month. Reasons were anticipated raises in salaries, electricity, cable, garbage, and Swing Bridge.
August 29th a motion passed to enact Boards decision on July 26, 2007 Special Sewer Meeting to transfer funds from the Major Project Improvement Funds, Building Permit Fund and Utilities (Operating Fund) to the sewer account to cover expenses incurred, and Would include loan payment, trucking our sewage, divers, etc, a motion passed to establish May 15, 2008 through September 15, 2008, swim band program with proceeds present and future monies to purchase pool furniture, a motion passed to accept Berry's Pool & Supply, a motion passed that ARAMARK be awarded the contract for gate attendants and patrol because of cost savings and the fact that we get more services, .
Sept 26th One variance motion passed.
Oct. 24th a motion passed to assess LIV owners $332,800.00 and request equal payment from each condo unit at Sun Harbor for $325 to cover the costs of replacing the sewer line that crosses the Intracoastal Waterway.
Nov. 21st a motion passed to accept Billy Kenan's sewer pipe removal bid of $25,000, a motion passed on "use of Office Machinery" shall be used only by staff, current Board, others will be charged a nominal fee, a motion passed to give the owner the option to read the newsletter online.
Dec 19th a motion passed to make a $10 cash award to Yard of the Year.
Jan. 23rd saw a fundraising activity motion pass in order to fund golf cart pathways. A motion was approved to take $250 out of the Major Improvement fund to match golf course Beautification funds. Motion to allow the operation of John Deere skid steer having a provision operator signs a hold harmless agreement. Motion passed to establish a contingency fund in the 2008 Budget and have such funds continue in the following years. Motion passed to have designated parking for manager/directors on south side of Welcome Center.
Feb. 27th had a motion to appoint Aaron H. Garcia as trustee of LIV’s corporate resolution. Motion passed to have Port Isabel’s senior prom at our Rec. Hall.

Highlights of 2008 Board Accomplishments
March 26th saw the Board implement measures to require the general and hospitality managers become more accountable for their actions and fulfill their obligation to care for our common ground-golf course areas per Aramark’s contract. Comprehensive checklists and work order performance actualities were asked for and put into practice.
April 23rd, Board passed a rental office increase rental charge of $10 for maid service. Motion passed that work orders start showing exact times of request.
May 28th, Motion passed to allocate $2100 to build boat ramp gate and fences. The Board negotiated a ten year contract (max 5% annual rise in cost) with Time Warner Cable to replace Arroyo Cable for at least a net savings of $50,000 for the Village annually, with twice the channels and all the new fiber optic cable hardware.
June 26th a motion passed that all golf carts have a license driver in cart. Board started to now have all corrections to the Minutes be done via email to save time and copier expense. Board created a Safety Committee. Due to $4 a gallon for gas and higher food prices, the board approved a $50 a week gas/grocery gift card to 41 employees now through August ($12,300 for 6 weeks).
Sept 4th Approved Securitas as LIV’s new licensed security replacing the unlicensed entry keepers being managed by Aramark for an estimated $12-$18,000 increase. The Board created a new hurricane evacuation policy (since dropped) and the reactivation of the mandatory GM evacuation committee as per Aramark’s contract. The Board approved that sea cottages are now allowed to use 30 year TDI approved shingles.
October 22nd the Board approved $2125 in hurricane bonuses for 17 employees. Approved bath house 1 and 3 renovations not to exceed the original total of $28,000, after it had climbed to around $50,000 from the new designs submitted. Director Hensen discovered that trash pickup charges were inaccurate and estimated the overbilling amount might be as much as $60,000 annually. Board immediately moved to acquire 3 bids from other companies and started monitoring current billing.
November 19th the Board approved audit recommendations to improve the Pro Shop revenues. Board made an owner timeline for hurricane related repairs. Board approved replacing sidewalks around the Activity Center, helicopter pad, tennis court, parking lot, and a grassy area leading to nowhere for $18,428. New handicap golf cart application for the golf course was made. The Board turned down Director Mulch’s motion to approve management’s only bid for outdoor pool restoration from Berry Pool’s for $59,000; the Board later approved the outdoor pool restoration for $32,868, saving nearly $26,000 for insisting on 3 bids. A new 3 bid policy with specifications for projects of over $7500 was adopted. Board approved a new ($1000 max) TV for the Rec. Hall aerobics class.
Dec.17th Board approved $10,500 insurance deductible for reimbursement to the six directors that were sued by then current director Leroy Mulch and owner Reta Priest.
Jan 30th the Board made 51 recommendations to improve four of our revenue centers. This included 18 Audit committee recommendations to improve restaurant revenue performances. There were 5 Audit committee recommendations towards the miscellaneous revenue and petty cash areas to include all areas of possible misuse by management (company credit cards). Board approved a new LIV internet website for $1900+$25 per hr.
Feb 25th approved the repair-replace of the Welcome Center’s roof for $30,000 that was provided by hurricane insurance money. Board passed to have a symbol somewhere on each copy made off the office’s copier machine to cease apparent misuse. Board delegated a procedure to stop Aramark management from selling Villager’s personal information to anyone who wanted it for $25. The Board required that LIV’s operating cash change previous practices to now always be in the FDIC insured limits.

2009 Board Accomplishment Highlights
March 25th approved giving Mr. Freeland $2500 towards a rerouting survey, installed a curb around the boat ramp, and marked the Conference microphones.
April 29th the Board continued with the wrist band use year round. Board replaced the engine on skid steer for $10,095, replaced the indoor pool heater for $2995, and bought two lift station pumps for $4734. The Board approved $3000 to remove the Activity Center’s old sidewalk. The Board accepted the new and higher Berry Pool contract of $15,540 annually plus their chemicals that have to be purchase at market price. In an executive meeting the Board apparently approved but never publicly disclosed the 2 day retirement notice of the General Manager.
May 27th saw a new 45 minute courtesy pass program initiated by the Board and the creation of a new policy on the of reading of Coffee meeting comments. Board purchased a 3 TB Workstation for $2018.
June 27th a motion was passed authorizing President Burke and Vice President Halback to be able to authorize committees requesting to have a Village snack bar. Board invokes a one hour parking limit at the Welcome Center, added a sentence to Village building codes, and passed that Canal lots put their lot numbers also at the rear. Board approved installation of the pool hand railings for $700 and changed the renter parking policy ($5 for parking) at Welcome Center.
August 29th had a motion made not to change the current procedure on owners who are in condo fee arrears. The Board approved taking $22,473 from the $50,000 left from the previous year’s budget (outdoor pool work that was in 2008 was determined unnecessary) to pay for the repair of four sinkholes. The Board approves a hotdog day fundraiser along with a motion to replacing Larry DeMalade with Richard Horner on petty cash checking accounts. The Board passed that it is now required to have building permit application signatures verified.
Sept 30th approved the purchase of a 3 door refrigerator for $3538, passed new 6.4 Rec. Hall rental policy, and gave clarification of the 6.3 Policy on the uses of our Owners Lounge. Board approved to resurface the billiard tables for $2700.
October 28th approved doing away with Saturday’s meetings. The Board approved that two Aramark Managers were to receive an undisclosed bonus amount for working three and a half months as interim GMs.
Nov 21st approved the patchwork for Village roads for approximately $16,900 and ruled no fishing off the canal bridges.
Dec. 16th the Board raised Village condo fees by $245,760. 00 annually and will spend an additional $110,000 for a road repair project that’s will be separate from the budget and subject to a possible partial individual owner assessment charge. The Board revised the Village policy towards quarterly assessments late fees. They produced a new owner-agent form to reduce Village liability.
Jan. 27th Motion passed to approve three changes in our Building Codes. Motion passed to table estimated $1,000,000.00 dredging project until the Annual Meeting.
Feb. 24th Motion was approved to purchase a new 2010 Ford F-150 from Tipton Ford for $20,462


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FEBRUARY 24TH BOARD OF DIRECTORS MEETING

Pledge of Allegiance

Owners Speaking on Issues
None

President’s Remarks-Burke went at length at saying no decision has be made on the dredging
Manager’s Report-Horner said the usual on permits, letters sent for violations and so forth. It was the first time that the owners received true numbers on work request. Mr. Horner realized and changed the method that was used previously.

Approval of Minutes-motion was approved

Treasurers Report-Steffensen went through the report. Nothing stood out. No P&L because of the auditors. The motion to approve the 2010 Budget passed. Major Improvement Fund was discussed touching on the money for our road repair.

Committee Reports
Golf-Pelletier mentioned they had their first meeting
Pool-Steffensen N/A
Finance-Steffensen N/A
Other Dir. White brought up all the D&E activities, times and dates.
Dir. Pelletier said arts and craft lockers are having maintenance. Need keys.
Dir. Bergsman talked on dredging which brought another scolding at the people speech about rumors.

Dir. Bergsma said the last osprey house was taken down across the canal which brought owners to ask (Lot 376) if our Park would make some. SC 120 said where the gazebo is in the little Sea Cottage Park would be a good spot. SC 52 asked if it could start right now. Answer was not clear.
There was a discussion between Dir. Montalvo and P. Burke on what are limited common elements. P. Burke said she didn’t know one in our Park.

Unfinished Business-Burke talked about the pending litigation. Bottom line all are still pending.

New Business-Montalvo was told that Aramark provided lunch at the Annual Meeting.

Other-Treas. Steffensen discussed different new trucks with prices. Motion was approved to purchase a new 2010 Ford F-150 from Tipton Ford for $20,462 out the door. (Means tax, title, everything)

Adjournment

* The contents of this meeting were condensed.

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FEBRUARY 17TH COFFEE with the DIRECTORS

Pledge of Allegiance

Comments from the Directors
P. Burke mentioned the Texas early voting and there are bridge board applications available. She said that Tom Cain will not serve another term on the bridge board and found out that Leo traveled 104 miles on his bike-a-thon fund raiser. She said forms to ask any new candidate questions are now available at the activity center along with the drop box.
Dir. White said that D&E will have the Shelton Tucker show tonight at 7pm, Little Brass Band Sat. 20th, Good Times Band Sat. on the 27th with Pot Luck as food.

Comments from the Suggestion Box
Lot 121 complained about the exercise room not being consistently supplied.
Lot 620 asked for a stool for the women’s handicapped shower in Sand Dollar bath house.
Lot 837 complained about Monday night parking because of Rec. Hall activities.
Lot 463 complained about the cleanliness of the aplliances and the conditions of the tables in the Owner’s Lounge.
SC 120 asked that the two roof holes in the indoor pool.

Owners speaking from the Audience
SC 43 Selba said she had and will leave copies of the Texas voting ballots in the Activity Center.
Lot 174 complained that it was too loud at these cocktail parties.
Lot 638 was concerned about the number of people at the cocktail parties and safety in locking of the entry accesses. Answer was you can still exit.
Lot 726 had several questions pertaining to dredging issues. Asked when the last dredging was, which canals were dredged and who paid for it? He asked how many people have complained about the sediment build up and where are these problems. P. Burke said a number of owners have complained about the corners and entrances to our canals. He mentioned that since he was an inside owner he had a problem with being assessed. P. Burke said the Declaration clearly states everyone pays their 1024th share.
Lot? Asked how many Board members own water front property? Dir. White was the only one who said she didn’t. Dir. Gagan said he owns two boats, one a 24’ that drafts a lot of water. He said he took that boat out last Sunday from canal F through G and down H without stirring up one bit of silt. P. Burke rambled for five minutes until Dir. Bergsma gave his assessment towards why we should dredge the canals. He said he can only get his boat up on his lift during high tide. He remembers when dolphins and trout swam the canals. He said the Village canals have a bad silt problem and they are full of crap. He said we have a permit that ends this year and we have John Freeland who is willing to take this crap and save the Park possibly 3 million dollars in disposal costs. He said it will decrease property values if left undone. He said this was a onetime offer to save a lot of money.
Lot 288 said to please mail in your proxies or attend to vote to make a quorum. March the 1st will be candidate’s night.
Lot 744 had a suggestion for bettering our Village web site.
SC 120 asked again about the indoor pool roof and was told the roof panels are ordered
Lot? Owner asked a question pertaining to how the dredging affects the sea walls.

WORKSHOP
Dir. Halbach wants to talk about the alcohol problems that could affect our license.
Lot 802 said we have a criminal working in our Park. He said guy ripped him off for $1300 last year. After proving that to management and some of the people on the Board, he was assured that this person would never be allowed in this Park. This owner said he saw just now working in the Park. Management said they didn’t know he was here and had to be working for a contractor that didn’t know he was banned.
Treasurer Steffensen said that the finance committee met again and has trimmed the budget’s bottom line with changes to the Major Improvements.
P. Burke said she talked to the Mayor about having a hurricane meeting in April and the rerouting of the intercoastal. She said the final inspection to acquire a bridge rating will be next week. That may qualify the bridge for possible state funding and John Freeland said Barge Masters have said they would concede to an alternative route close to where he proposed. The Oliver lawsuit appeal was denied by the Supreme Court to end litigation.

Adjournment

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FEBRUARY COMMENTS OR SUGGESTIONS

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January 27th Board Meeting

Pledge of Allegiance

Owners Speaking on Agenda IssuesLot? Spoke long about her concerns of the revenue losses in all the revenue sources, spending of the money on the roads and the cost of dredging. She also talked about the issues of the Bridge.

Directors Speaking
Dir. White mentioned a man named Ernest from the census will stop by to speak to owners.
Dir. Gagan said there was an e-mail scam going around with someone saying they lost their wallet and want you to send them money.

President’s Remarks-P. Burke took many minutes to say she had nothing to talk about.

Manager’s Report –Rick Horner said there were 12 building permits, three letters sent for violations, and $51,344 worth of condo fees in arrears. Mr. Horner said he had been bothered since starting his job that every work order in every month was completed because he knew that was impossible. He said that they were being put into the system after they were completed and starting Feb. 1st this will stop. They will go in the system (except cable) when received. He did not have the figures yet but knows the Restaurant is doing better.

Approval of Minutes for December

Treasurer’s Report-Treas. Steffensen touched on the operating funds, major improvement funds, building permit accts, insurance escrow accts, and cash in banks, holdings-investment accts, and accts. receivable totals. Question was asked where was the contingency funds the Board created when the condo fees were raised last time? The answer was those monies are now paying for the increased bridge assessments followed by a five minute orientation from P. Burke of what the Village has done to get help from the county and state. The P&L showed that every revenue center lost money with the exception of the Rental Dept. P. Burke made the comment that our Village is getting more rentals and dividends from implementing suggestions from a study made last year.

Committee Reports

1. D&E-Dir. White said the cocktail party with was a success. Upcoming events is the sock hop 1/30, Leslie on 2/1, raptor man will visit 2/5, trash & treasures on 2/6, Valentine and Retro dances will be sometime in February.
2. Golf-Dir. Pelletier said the committee meets the first Wed. each month at noon, everyone is welcomed. He said there will be an upcoming fundraiser and the concrete cart paths will be completed this year.
3. Pool-Treas. Steffensen had nothing to report except the wrist bands will change color this year.
4. Finance-Treas. Steffensen said the committee will meet Monday before the Coffee Meeting and the Audit has begun by a new person called Ron Rivera.
5. Other N/A

Unfinished Business

1. Budget 2010-Treas. Steffensen discussed with the other Directors the corrections in the current proposed budget. She made the comment in this Village budget that’s heavy with equipment the Village would be better off to buy used instead of lease.
2. Building Code changes-Dir. Pelletier got a motion passed to change wording of certification of contractors, eliminate the minimum of 36” height for park models, and that all outside lights in the canals must not bother neighbors.
Dir. Bergsma wanted to know exactly why the board doesn’t allow it the enclosing of decks with products like clear plastic easy breeze panels. P. Burke’s answer was the standards with putting them up and the enforcement in taking them. There would also be questions if this might add to the max total cubic ft. allowed for units. Motion made and died for a lack of a second to go further on the subject.
3. Check-In/Auto Pass-P. Burke passed this item on to Mr. Horner, who said the office had been confused for a long time on what to charge people, but it’s now corrected and prices are posted.
4. Dredging Report- Dir. Bergsma introduced Chris Ransom of a survey company that explained what they did and answered questions very well. Dir. Gagan explained his concern that John Freeland’s new canal will deposit material back into our canals when his canals are built. It was brought up about what action should be taken in getting permission from the Cowan Group to dredge canal H. One owner mentioned the possibility of a class action lawsuit if this dredging starts. All in all Dir. Bergsma did a great job at explaining the need, the survey costs, and the four steps necessary to dredge our waterways, but the overall cost are still a question. Lot 284 asked why our Village can’t we the $15,000 needed to pay for the initial survey so we know what money we are talking about. Motioned passed to table until the annual meeting.
5. 2010 Election Info-Dir. White gave the floor to Liz Deitrick who said on Feb 6th the packets will be mailed. She mentioned that same day there will be the Annual Wildlife and Outdoor Expo, featuring the Birds of Prey at the Convention Center. She said the proxy will now need a photo ID or notarized signature.
6. Security Concerns-P. Burke said security started a new method with documenting concerns and follow-up.
7. Vehicle Parking-P. Burke voiced that vehicles must not hang out in the road or be on the grass. Dir. Pelletier asked what it takes to tow cars parking over the allotted time in the Welcome Center.
SC51 request to allow the posting of their Church sales event sign was approved in the activity center.
8. Lot 267-Raynundo Lopez was a no show. Motion passed to give owner 30 days to start restoration of structure or its removal and must sign a form saying LIV can remove it at his expense if over that deadline.

New business N/A

Other N/A

Adjournment

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JANUARY 20TH COFFEE W/ DIRECTORS

Pledge of Allegiance

Comments from the suggestion box-VP Halbach
Lot 428 brought up reflectors to indicate what lots are for sell or rent. Response was this was brought up before, but will review again.
Lot 796 brought up how great the game of washers and bolts is and suggested the making of four boxes. Owner also asked to reset the horseshoe pegs.
Lot 184 said lot 183 is trashy and something needs to be done.
SC 12 asked if Security would stop the practice of people parking their vehicles on the grass or sticking out in the street.
Lot 759 said there seems a need for the towels and cleaner to be replaced earlier in the morning for the exercise room.
Lot 229 brought up an incident two months ago that she thought it was terrible when she heard a Board member was walking an unleashed dog that chased a renter’s cat. The facts were the dog just got loose and the board member was trying to catch it. P.Burke gave a long speech on rules and stories of barking dogs and even gave her own impersonation a dog barking.

Comments from the Audience
Lot 638 asked LIV's Security Manager if he allowed any of his employees to watch TV. Mr. Salazar said they watch for training at the guard house, but are never allowed to watch TV during rush hours. P. Burke said she has no objections for Security to watch TV.
Lot 631 complained about the wild cats who serenade late at night. P. Burke gave her opinion along with the rules of the Park.
Lot 288 Co-chairperson of the Election Committee announced information about the three vacancies available in the upcoming election.
SC120 asked why the picture of the old Hospitality Manager was still in the current management/director showcase. P. Burke said she has been trying to get the new GM, Hospitality manager, Ramona, and Armando together at the same time to take their individual pictures before she can remove that picture. Julio was mention for the first time in a meeting as the new Hospitality Manager.
Lot 443 had a large complaint about the condition of lot 267. P. Burke said it is at the Attorney.
SC120 asked about the music being shut off on channel 18 and if maintenance had sprayed for weeds on the golf course. P. Burke tried to make a joke when saying Elvis was singing at 2am and Armando said maintenance sprayed last Saturday.
Lot 229 asked if the Board had noticed the cable going out a few days back.

Comments from the Directors
Dir. Gagan said he is considering on waiting for the key card initiative and mentioned the number of raccoons in the Village.
Dir. Guerra told everyone happy new year.
Dir. Bergsma said at the next board meeting he will have consultants from Houston to talk about the dredging engineering study our Park is going to contract. He said our Village has applied for an extension to our dredging permit and that John Freeland will share in dredging costs. Freeland has also agreed to take our dredging material which might save our Village millions of dollars. This is a hydraulic survey engineering firm that uses high tech side scanning and GPS for preparing bid specifications for dredging operators, and will oversee the final bids for accuracy. Dir. Bergsma went on to say we are looking to do this by summer because Freeland’s need for this dredging material will end then. There was a question from the audience about dredging for all lots on the intercoastal waterway and canal H, which by the way are not the Village's common ground. Dir. Bergsma replied that no one should object in doing those too.
Dir. White mentioned the Monday 1/25 a cocktail party with Debbie Moore, a sock hop party on Sat. 1/30, and the trash and treasure on Sat. 2/6. There is also going to be a quilt raffle with the winner drawn at the annual meeting.
P. Burke said pool wrist bands are required 365 days a year and you will be asked to leave for not wearing one. No posting of signs will be tolerated unless approved by the Board. P. Burke said a decision was made to shelter the homeless at our Rec. Hall if Port Isabel had thought necessary during this last cold spell. She then read a letter of thanks from the Mayor.
Owner from lot #172 was left to speak about asking to sponsor to him in the Girls and Boys club bike marathon.

Workshop
Dir. White wanted to talk about having different days for the early cocktail party events to spread the often overtime interruptions around.
Dir. Pelletier asked to move the Board meetings back into the A&C room. He talked about the three alterations for the Building Codes. Discussions were abounding that included the one on Dir. Bergsma request about enclosing his deck.
Treas. Steffensen talked on her major improvement lists and said there is funding now for a new truck and tractor. She talk about items that were put in their proper place. She touched on Water and Legal estimates.
Dir. Halbach talked on the earlier reflector request and it was decided to not do it. There was a rumor brought up about the line dancing instructor charging for her services. Rumor was found to be incorrect.
Dir. Gagan made a concern about way the Green Bikers were biking which brought out P. Burke’s speech on LIV’s road rules.

End


1/29 NOTE* IN THE "COMMENTS FROM THE AUDIENCE, SC120' RAMONA IN INCORRECT, IT SHOULD BE AURORA.

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JANUARY SUGGESTIONS

We would love your suggestion that will improve our Village. Suggestions may be viewed by those visiting. We will renew the display each month. Anonymous are welcomed. So throw one in the box.

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DECEMBER 16TH BOARD OF DIRECTORS MEETING

Pledge of Allegiance

Owners Speaking on Agenda Issues
Lot 759-Owner had concerns about the proposed $20 condo fee increase. She asked where we get the information that future increases are going to happen. Owner asked why not one time assessments instead of an increase in fees that never will decrease. She also asked if these increase percentages are going to be an annual event.

Presidents Remarks-Burke
Urged owners to register to vote so as to influence government help with the swing bridge and keep Port Isabel from annexing our Village.
Tom Cain will not continue on the Bridge Board and asked for replacements.
She gave the Christmas house lighting contests results.
She expressed the legalities of driving a golf carts outside the Village.

Manager Report-Horner/Zamora
Work orders from Oct-26 to the end of Nov-57, with most completed. Late condo fees (73-15 to 30 days) (22-60 days) (3-90 days). There are 98 lots in arrears for a total of $34,158. Third letter issued to Lot 784 for not keeping the lot clean and neat. Building permits 4. Golf course sprinklers working while it’s raining were again mentioned. An issue about the pool exhaust fan coming on and being too noisy during exercise class.

Approval of Minutes for November-Burke
Motion made and approved

Treasurer Report-Steffensen
The December report balances were read with no questions. Profit & Loss net income for 2009 was $157,326 less than 2008. All Profit and loss centers were in the red except the rental office. That showed $27, 982 in the black, but it was reminded that $38,000 from hurricane insurance was added to that department. The laundry was questioned as to why it was still a loser. No answer was able to be given.

Committee Reports:
1. D&E-White said there were 218 people at the cocktail party w/Leslie. New Year’s party coming up.
2. Golf-Pelletier said meetings are at noon on the first Wed. of each month at the restaurant patio area. Everyone is invited. Is beginning a fund raiser in selling brick paver memorials.
3. Pool-Steffensen N/A
4. Finance-Steffensen said there will be a meeting in January
5. Other

Unfinished Business
1. Dredging Report-Bergsma said LIV needs a hydrographic survey engineer to come in with his equipment and pull readings of the canals. This will give an accurate amount of dredging material removed. He said the amount that is read on the dredge company's meters are inaccurate and this could save the Village a tremendous amount of money. He said that he talked to John Freeland who wished to share the use of the dredging company and that will also reduce the cost. Freeland will take our dredge material onto his land which will again save LIV money. One problem is that this must be done within six months per Freeland. It was said by Dir. Bergsma that the cost will probably be in the area of one million dollars. There was talk about property values if this was not done. Dir. Bergsma is currently looking for a surveyor.

2. Budget 2010-Steffensen said she put the newsletter an eight year comparison of direct expense increases. She reviewed the needs for a condo fee increase, and then made the motion for a $20 monthly increase starting Feb.1st. Motion passed unanimously. P. Burke said that if we have too much money, we have to give it back. Treas. Steffensen wants the finance committee to take on a five year plan towards projected capital needs of our Village.

Intermission

Owners given opportunity to speak
Lot 679 commented that she thought most owners would like to know where the increase in fees is going to be spent. Treas. Steffensen said the money is for the $41,000 budget deficit and the $126,000 major improvement plans. We have $110,000 that also has to be spent on patching the roads.
Lot 759 said she personally would like to see the Board go one step further and show evidence to owners of these costs increases we are having . She wished for more transparency. P. Burke said they do provide information when asked and then mentioned something about if you want a full time treasurer, but didn’t finish her statement. This owner said because of a condo fee increase a few years ago along with this one, she just wanted a little more transparency that shows these increase in costs.
SC111 remarked angrily towards the owner of lot 759 even questioning the Board.

New Business
1. Revised Policy 5.2 Quarterly Assessment/Late Fees-Burke
Board made clearer wording about assessments due dates and late fees to create a better position when legal action occurs.
2. Clergy Pass-White
This is still being debated on exactly how to implement.
3. Owner-Agent Resignation Form-Burke
This form is for owners to authorize and allow a hired agent to do things to their property and hold our Village harmless to such events. Motion made and passed.
4. 2010 Election-Burke
Leroy Mulch and Liz Deitrick was appointed by P. Burke to replace Sandra Etter on the Election Committee.

Other

Adjournment




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DECEMBER 9TH COFFEE with the DIRECTORS

Directors Gagan, Bergsma, and Montalvo were not present. GM Horner was not present.

Pledge of Allegiance

Comments from the Directors
Dir. White mentioned December’s activities. Friday (11th) Employee Christmas Party at 3pm, Saturday (12th) White Elephant Party, Monday (14th) Christmas Cocktail Party bring a toy w/Leslie, New Years Eve Party. She also mentioned church functions for the needy. Dir. Pelletier thanked the choir and golf parade participants.

P. Burke said to wear swim bands.

Treas. Steffensen mentioned the number of people around the world that visit our LIV website.

From the Suggestion Box
SC 109 asked to investigate solar heat for the swimming pool.

Comments from the Audience
Lot 251 said the curve at Cockle and Conch needs attention because people are running off the pavement and making a deep rut.

Lot 638 asked for the Board to consider charging owners a membership fee to our restaurant. He asked if the security cameras were operating in the maintenance area. He asked if there was an arrangement to have a trailer park there until after the hurricane season. After P. Burke gave her rendition of the event, this owner thought the park should replace the tires to the owner of that trailer that were thought to have been vandalized. P.Burke went on at length to scold the scoundrel who did such a thing. Other members of the Board thought likewise on giving compensation.

Lot 329 said it was announced that there’s a new government grant that was just issued that our Village might look into. He also asked questions about items in the budget.

Lot 832 asked if all the water goes through the golf course. Answer was no.

Lot 512 asked if clergy could get a clergy pass. There was discussion.

SC 120 said she for the Boards information that she heard there were osprey towers used for nesting that the Cowen Group wanted our Park to remove. P. Burke gave a lengthy legal orientation on ramifications towards anyone removing these.

WORKSHOP
It was announce the Library will have a get together 4-6 pm this Sunday. Also the manager of Securitas was complimented on showing up at our meetings every month.

Dir. White wanted the clergy pass on the agenda

Dir. Guerra asked about progress on lot 267 about their repairs and what the attorney said. Nothing further has happened.

P. Burke wants to revise wording on condo fees (assessments). She wants to talk about owner designation forms to better protect our Park. This will clarify on who has authority to act for owners in our Park. She also mentioned the Election Committee President has resigned and will need to be addressed.

Treas. Steffensen discussed different items in the budget with the other Directors. She explained on the capital side there is a $41,000 budget deficit for 2010. On the major improvement side we are looking at $126,000 for 2010. In her opinion a revenue increase is the only way to make this possible. She said a revenue increase of $20 will cover both above and leave $59,000 that would be put towards the Park’s roads. This increase now has to be voted on by next week because of having to give notice and make the coupons to send. P. Burke then gave a speech on why it’s not a bad deal. An owner asked why not just increases it by $5 and P. Burke said we need to do the roads. There was mentioned the electricity and legal fees are expenses LIV has no control of.

The Board started suggesting implementing a set revenue increase amount every year, then switching to fill in the amount as needed. When all said and done, Treas. Steffensen said she will bring up a motion next week of a $20 increase in the condo fees starting Feb. 1st and study on automatic increases each year.

Dir. White asked how far we are at removing the hydraulic system from the sprinkler system on the golf course. It will be completed this coming year. It was also asked about the sprinklers running when it rains.

End




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DECEMBER SUGGESTIONS

We would love your suggestion that will improve our Village. Suggestions may be viewed by those visiting. We will renew the display each month. Anonymous are welcomed. So throw one in the box.
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NOVEMBER 21ST BOARD MEETING

Pledge of allegiance

Owners Speaking
Lot SC 18 bought up this year’s boat parade and said she had posters and applications. This owner gave recommendations on applicants our Village should support for the Chamber of Commerce Director’s position. P. Burke then made it official to support those recommendations.

President’s remarks-Burke
Library schedule in Dec. will be open Mon-Fri. 11am-1pm

Manager’s Report-Horner/ Zamora
Five building permits were given and two letters sent out to Lots 490 and 784. Condo fee report had 54 lots @ fifteen days, 33 @ sixty days, and 4 @ ninety days. He said the Restaurant sales were up by 21%.

Director’s Public Comments
This was scratched

Approval of October Minutes
There was a correction to clarify wording between bridge cost and condo fees not increasing.
Motion for both Executive and Board minutes was made and passed.

Treasurer Report-Steffensen
The treasurer’s report was read, after which it was determine not to be necessary in future meetings. Profit and Loss showed all losers as usual except for Rental Dept because it received insurance from Dolly of 38K to put it in the black.

Committee Reports
a. D&E-White-talked about the Thanksgiving feast table sign-ups, Christmas concert on Dec. 6th, and giving employee Christmas donations to Dick Stabler. Other events were the golf cart Christmas parade and chili dump along with the White Elephant being now an open party on Dec 12th. Cocktail toys for tots party with Leslie on Dec. 14th and New Year’s dinner and dance party on Dec.31st.
b. Golf-Pelletier-said there is now a meeting every month. Will complete all of the cart paths from donations.
c. Pool-Steffensen-N/A
d. Other-N/A

Budget for 2010-Steffensen
It was said they are looking to lease a new truck through Aramark along with numerous minor items. Questions were asked about the 2011 items. It was asked if the new riding mower and truck could be leased through Aramark at the same time. The skid steer was brought up as an example that if our Village had tried to purchase this, it would have cost $52,000 instead of going through Aramark at $39,000. At the nest workshop there will have a final Budget. Then it came to the operating budget for 2010. With 11% water increase ($33,000), garbage pickup increase of 25%, cost of goods overall at 2% increase will all lead to a deficit of $41,000 in 2010. A condo fee increase next year of $20 is recommended to get the operating capital in line. Dir. Guerra said he had a problem with a condo increase because there are people in the Park living off a fixed income. An owner made the comment that this is the facts of life, things go up. One owner brought up the idea of charging for the pool and tennis courts. There was discussion about privatizing the amenities. Director Bergsma said privatization of the amenities will not work.

Recess

Unfinished Business
a. Paving Contract-Pelletier – a motion received and passed having the original company at the original amount ($16,000) to patch a certain amount of Village roads.
b. Superior Alarms-Gagan - was discussed to do in stages (main gate and boat dock)

New Business
a. Burke
1. No Fishing Off Bridge & Area Rule- motion made and passed that no fishing off canal bridges
2. Chamber Vote see above
b. Bergsma
1. Update on Canal “H” from Ramona so far that Cowen has no responsibility to dredge canal H and probably residents on canal H could dredge. Armando said so far $980,000 will be the anticipated cost at ten feet from sea walls so far without canal H and with spoils to Freeland property. Discussions then continued about spending more to include dredging to the seawalls.
2. Report on Freeland Taking Spoils of Dredge-P.Burke said this seemed ok with him.
3. Paving Repairs on Sea Cottage N/A
Other
a. Another executive meeting to discuss managerial issues.
b. Update on arrears
1. Lot 267 may be looked at to foreclose upon.
2. A lot owner wanted to delay on paying arrears until January

Adjournment

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A TIDBIT

It has been three months since our general manager Rick Horner started working here. In that short time he has captured the praise of many. The small things that were overlooked before are now being done. It seems a proactive approach is now being used without fabrications.

Owners have recently seen that when problems present themselves beyond the Gm’s control, he doesn’t mind working up a sweat and getting his hands a little dirty. The latest was witnessed this evening at Chicken Night. The relatively new hospitality supervisor quit without notice leaving Rick and Armando holding the Chicken Night doggie bag.

Rick rolled up his sleeves and was doing the chores with Armando. I mean nonstop work filling up the food trough, serving coffee, and everything else that makes for happy owners at this event.

If this first ninety days is any indication of what we have as a new Gm, I believe we’ve got a keeper.

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NOVEMBER 14, 2009, COFFEE w/DIRECTORS

Pledge of Allegiance

Suggestion Box
Lot 316 had issues with lights shining directly at his residence all night. Director Pelletier said the rules prohibit that and security needs to be told to correct it.

From the Audience
Lot 870 had concernes about a young man fishing in an area that seems dangerous. Lot owner also pointed out that at times this person is trespassing.
Lot 329 asked for the update on the Rec. Hall toilets. Armando said the clog has been removed and Rick the GM said they are in the process of acquiring some toilet seat cover dispensers to keep people from using towels to cover the seat that did this last clog.
Lot ? said the service and food was wonderful at the Village Grille.
Lot 345 brought up again the problems in obtaining loans for LIV properties.
S C 120 said there have been temperature and chlorine problems with the pool again. This was supported by Dir. White that show the audience several swim wear garments that have changed color after one swim. Dir. White said she felt the Board needs to reconsider the use of Berry Pools. Dir. Guerra said the rep for Berry Pools came in here and put on a very good show, but this? Rick the GM said they recently replaced the thermostat and that was the reason for the temperature flux. He said there have been too many problems with these Berry people. He said he has talked to another company and soon will talk to several more. He said there is a 30 day notice in the Berry contract to cancel. The GM also said Berry Pools was over charging LIV $100 each month for the last six months. P. Burke said since she signed the last contract, service has declined. She said the sales rep. failed to tell Berry Pools about the $1295 a month renegotiated price, a cost that is to just monitor and chemically feed the pools.
Lot 830 commented on how nice the Park looks. P.Burke said she could not take the credit for that.
Dir. White said Dick Stabler is heading up the employee appreciation fund. She mentioned Thanksgiving dinner signup procedures and things to remember.
Lot 174 wanted to help organize the trash and treasure. Management said it was their fault because they failed to tell hospitality supervisor that he was responsible for this event.
Treas. Steffensen said they are in the talking stages on what to put in the outdoor pool island to dress it up. One suggestion was a statue of some kind.
Lot 496 commented how lovely the pelican welcome home sign looked.
P.Burke said only Security will now have keys to the tennis courts. The Coffee meeting lost their cookies over this.
Dir. Pelletier mentioned for the Board to use the microphones more often at the meetings.

WORKSHOP
Chicken night will start on Nov. 18 at a price of $7.21 including tax.
Armando started talking about dredging of the channels. This led to over a forty five minute conversation that ended up with trying to use a dredging company that will be working in this area. It sounds like a large future assessment to every owner is on its way.
Dir. Pelletier talked about the patch work that took a 50% increase in price because the Board cut back the size of the job. P. Burke said they can't get any more bids because no one except this guy who worked out of his truck up until a year ago. The thinking now is leaning toward paying him the $16,000 to do the original large job and save $8000. Dir. Bergsma again brought up the concrete repairs needed in the Sea Cottage streets.
Voting for which candidate that’s running for the Port Isabel Chamber of Commerce was brought up by P. Burke.
Dir. Gagan had a person present at the meeting to discuss the problems and cost of replacing the palm trees around the pool. It seemed the price area is around $1000 per palm times sixteen.
Treas. Steffensen talked about the budget. She said because of the increase expenses in water, trash, wages, and legal fees that there will be a minuscule amount that will be budgeted for major improvement fund (max. $15000). Dir. Montalva asked if the Village Grille is a revenue loser, why do we keep pouring money in it and still seem to express this attitude towards outsiders that we don’t want them here. The result to all this budget talk is that there will be about a 10% increase ($20 a month) in condo fees starting in March.
When asked by Dir. Pelletier about the arrangement of cabinets in the A&C room, P. Burke gave the explanation and said just how everyone is so happy with the situation.
A suggestion was made to post the recycling locations in the trash bin areas for Villagers.

Meeting over.

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NOVEMBER SUGGESTIONS

We would love your suggestion that will improve our Village. Suggestions may be viewed by those visiting. We will renew the display each month. Anonymous are welcomed. So throw one in the box.

Read more on this article...

At the October 28th Board meeting Director Gagen brought up an idea of key cards to be used to access entry into our Park, pool facility, exercise room, billiards room, boat ramp, and tennis court.

This is not the first time that this topic has been brought up, but since there have been fantastic improvements in this field in the past five years; it is well worth another look.

We as a park could monitor the use of each amenity and know the number of owners, renters, visitors, and others who made use of them. Our future cameras when installed would let Security be able to monitor each card holder to verify their identity when using the amenity without leaving the guard house.

Security at the front gate can verify the people entering our Park for a change instead of a car that just happens to have a Park sticker. It would virtually guarantee that no one could just drive in and use our amenities undetected.

It would enhance our security, make amenity analysis more accurate, and be a great selling point. It doesn't get any better that non owners paying a small fee for their temporary cards to make this item self sufficient and a constant revenue provider with no money out of the owner's pockets.
I for one think it is a great idea. Git er done.

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OCTOBER 28, 2009 BOARD MEETING

Pledge of Allegiance

Owners Speaking on Agenda Issues – NONE

President Remarks – P. Burke asked for a moment of silence to honor and pray for those who are ill and who have recently passed away. She mentioned Warren Lee’s funeral this coming Wednesday. She talked at length about her Port Isabel pirate cruise outing where she represented LIV and took pictures of our GM dressed up as a pirate.

Managers Report – GM said there were 9 building permits, 97 work orders, and 3 violation letters sent. There are 79 lots 15 days late, 4 lots at 60 days late, and 6 lots at 90 days late on Condo fees. He talked about major improvement projects in the works, the picking up of dead fish from the red tide, and said 80 % of the common area palm trees are cut. He said the current plan is to open the restaurant on Nov. 7th. Matt Wilson is our new Hospitality/Housekeeping Supervisor, and not a manager as I first expressed. I apologize for that error.

Approval of Minutes for September - Treas. Steffensen made a correction in the minutes and made the comment that Aramark was billing LIV too late in the month to administrate corrections within that month. She will bring that up during the contract talks with Aramark. Minutes were approved.

Treasurer’s Report – Treas. Steffensen read the report. Nothing stood out as being out of line. On the Financial Profit & Loss had all revenue areas year to date were a loser except for the rental dept.

Committee Reports
a. D&E – Dir. White said it was a wonderful time this last Saturday and that next Saturday from 4-8 pm will be a Halloween cocktail party. Nov. 6th there will be Levi and the Good Times Band.
b. Golf – Dir. Pelletier N/A
c. Pool – Treas. Steffensen said the remaining 12 old pool chairs will be sold at the Trash and Treasure. She said the cost of the pool chemicals this year has been tremendous and wanted to look to see what if anything can be done in this area to save money.
d. Finance – Treas. Steffensen wanted to remind our Directors the 2010 Major Improvement projection lists she gave to them needs to be returned by Nov. 11th, in time for the that month's workshop. She said if any owner has any ideas to get with their director.
e. Other – Dir. Pelletier said he wanted a spokesperson from the stain glass group to get with him and Reta Priest to discuss what they wish to do as improvements in the Arts & Crafts room.

Unfinished Business
a. Paving Contract – Dir. Pelletier - Armando said there were two additional contractors who have yet turned in a bid, He said the Board might want to consider waiting until next year with the Winter Texans returning. P. Burke said there are spots that need immediate attention. Armando also questioned if there is enough money for this project and was told by the Board that since there will be no increase in this year's bridge assessments, the Park will be in good shape. Dir. Bergsma wanted action started now on the Sea Cottage roads and asked to get a contractor out to at least find out what the cost might be. P.Burke gave him her permission.
b. Arts & Crafts Room Counters – P. Burke said this was already talked about.
c. Other – P. Burke said she felt the Village belonging to the Better Business Bureau would not be a cost effective benefit. Action towards this cancelled.

New Business
a. Saturday Meetings – Burke proposed to change meetings back to Wednesday. Motion made that starting in Jan. 2010, Board meetings will be on Wednesday. Motion approved. Dir. Bergsma wanted to talk about having informational meetings somewhere in the Valley for the Valley owners. P. Burke said they will discuss the different ways to provide this. P. Burke proposed having a memorial gathering at the end of the year for all owners who have passed away within that year. She wanted a committee to be organized for this.
b. Building Code Committee – P. Burke directed the building code committee members to consolidate this years changes into a onetime affair to save filing cost.
c. Common Area Palm Trees – Dir. Gagen proposed replacing every Washingtonian Palm Tree that dies with a Royal palm because of its beauty and easy maintenance. This ended with Dir. Gagen and former director Ed McBride looking further into the matter.
d. Proposal and Presentation for Card Entry Security System – Dir. Gagen had Roger Rea from Superior Alarms give a presentation about key card entry systems. So far ten different accesses to certain amenities were being looked to possibly use this. The bottom-line was that this would self sufficient to the owners cost wise with the funds coming out of the renters, contractors, and etc pockets.
e. Dredging LIV Canals – Dir. Bergsma discussed the dredging our canals. It ended with P. Burke saying she has already had our Village attorney start to find out how the easement reads exactly before our Park should make plans on dredging.
Other

Break to an Executive Meeting
a. Legal strategies for pending cases
b. Strategies for other legal issues.

Adjournment





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OCTOBER 21, 2009 COFFEE WITH THE DIRECTORS

Pledge of Allegiance

To Note: Our prayers to Dir. Pelletier’s daughter who is to have open heart surgery.

From the Directors
Dir. White thanked our GM for the pelican sign on the main entry road. There is a cocktail party with Angie from 4-6pm this Saturday and a Halloween Party with the Wranglers next Saturday from 4-8pm.
P. Burke and others welcomed everyone back.

From the Suggestion Box
Lot 359 the head of the A&C committee said since there are inadequate funds to update the Arts & Crafts room the way they want, they choose to wait.
Lot 828 said please do not consider the spending of $7000+ for these Sunday television commercials.
Lot 284 wanted to thank the GM for cleaning up the dumpster area nearest to her residence. She also asked if the fence around the dumpsters could get a fresh coat of stain.
Lot 475 said when she arrived back from up north her grass and foliage around her home was dead. It appeared it was not watered even though they made sure the sprinkler system was working properly when they left. She asked why didn’t lawn maintenance notice this happening and report it.
Lot 288 wanted to thank the Board for hiring a GM who has started to maintain the many different items within our Park.

From the Audience
Selba Campbell announced she is signing up LIV owners to vote.
Lot 744 made the comment to the Board about making a good decision putting the pelican sign up.
Because someone asked about a new assessment on our swing bridge from Txdot, it gave way to a lengthy orientation by P. Burke on the different possible ways our Bridge may be taken over, replaced, intercoastal rerouting and so forth. The bottom line was this assessment is to update the 2004 assessment rating that will help our Park in the cost of our swing bridge. This was confused with the $2500 given to Mr. Freeland for the new survey to reroute our intercoastal waterway. This later led to a long discussion on the dredging our canals.
The Village Grille will try to open on Oct. 30th. There will be new ideas on menu, chicken night, and carryout with stressing that this is your restaurant and needs your input.
Lot? An owner asked P. Burke for her short version update on LIV’s current lawsuits. P.Burke explained;
1. Smith vs.LIV & L is in the discovery stage and hopefully will be resolved soon.
2. Hamlinck vs LIV Armstrong etc, court date is in November.
3. Cowen is in discovery.
4. Arroyo Cablevision court date is Nov. 10th.
Tom Cain said all owners need to register with Mrs. Campbell to increase our capacity to sway the city and county on our bridge needs.
Lot 251 said propositions 2, 8, 9, and 11 need to be voted yes by owners. P. Burke then took it upon herself to read word for word each proposition along with her comments for each.

Workshop / Agendas
This opened with the announcement that Welcome Center employees have come down with the H1N1 flu virus.
Dir. Montalva-none
Dir. Gagan-none
Dir. Bergsma wants to include Sea Cottage roads to the patchwork and start the ball rolling on getting the Cowen Group involved on dredging certain canals.
Dir. White asked about the video conferencing. It seems that there were only 12 responses to the article put in the newsletter, but it will be brought back up in January. It was also asked about what exactly was done to correct the outdoor pool problems. Tres. Steffensen and Burke said a valve was opened and a leak was repaired. There was a debate as to if there was any suction happening in the middle skimmers. There was a discussion about how to handle the differences between owners in remodeling Arts and Crafts room.
Dir. Guerra-none
Dir. Pelletier said he is still working on the street repairs which led to a twenty minute discussion on different streets in need of repair.
VP Halback-none
Tres. Steffensen started with wanting the Board to categorize by importance the list of major improvement projects, work on projecting their accurate costs, and turn them back in by November 9th. There was a broad range of reserve fund items discussed. P. Burke made the comment that if an owner wants any input on these projects, they need to talk to their Director.
P. Burke said there will be an executive meeting after the next regular meeting to discuss the continuing litigation issues. She mentioned that Saturday meetings will probably change back to Wednesday.

Adjourned

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A TIDBIT

At the September’s Board meeting it was asked why the new Webinar system was not in operation with telecasting our Board meetings via the internet. Last April the Board told owners this was to start in August when Director Bergsma returned. I don’t recall it later being openly discussed at any meeting but understand now that our Board has decided to cancell this because there was so little response from owners.

This invaluable service would cost less a year than our Village pays a month for th inept service from Berry Pools. Might it be possible that only a few owners read this one and only Webinar system article posted in our June’s newsletter? After all, this was when the LIV’s new website was first initiated with all kinds of technical problems unresolved until the following month.. In addition the article really didn’t indicate it wanted any immediate response. It just asked if owners had some kind of input to share.

The Board might find that there may be many more owners wanting this service more than the Rental Department and Berry Pools combined. Shouldn't the Board give the Webinar system a chance? Maybe at least a year’s worth of service before making a decision?

Director Bergsma, we need you.

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Concern- Compliment- Comment

Will owners question the spending of their money for two managers acting as GM for three and a half months? Can any owner argue that these two salaried managers don’t deserve receiving a bonus for their 105 days worth of additional obligations when after last year’s hurricane, salaried management were awarded over $11,000 for their 5 day additional effort?

If they do ask questions, will it include if this generous bonus of undisclosed proportions is for what these managers did or was it a cost for what our ex Gm and Aramark didn’t do.

Will anyone add an inquiry if two day notices of retirement from Aramark employees holding the most important management positions are long enough to find a replacement? Does Aramark condone these notices in believing that it is in the best interest to their clients? One would think not but then again one might also think Aramark should have policies they enforce not to allow two day notices like this to happen at all?

Why on earth with ARAMARK having in their words approximately 260,000 employees serving clients in this field, did it take over 60 days to find a minuscule number (4) of GM candidates to choose from?

Should the question be raise of why our Board didn’t feel it necessary to demand his stay until the replacement was found?

One wonders when will this Park start to hold Aramark and their $100,000+ annual fee for managerial support a wee bit more accountable for actions or non-actions.

Owners wish to know if they paid Aramark for any GM services or related expenses (e.g. vacation, sick, bonus, or severance days) from May through August 2009? Did Park owners contribute to the new manager’s relocation costs or is it Aramark’s responsibility since it was their employee who decided to retire attached with their blessing? Concerned owners feel they deserve to know all expenses they pay for and what has been the total price tag to replace this retired GM starting from when he gave his two day notice.

Should not all Park expenditures using Villager’s money have total transparency?

You make the call!



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OCTOBER SUGGESTIONS

We would love your suggestion that will improve our Village. Suggestions may be viewed by those visiting. We will renew the display each month. Anonymous are welcomed. So throw one in the box.
Read more on this article...

BOARD MEETING 9/30/2009

Pledge of Allegiance

Owners Speaking
Lot 744 talked about the manner in how the Board is acquiring sealed bids

from contractors. Example given was the sealed bid assumed opened for the first time at the last Coffee Meeting was actually sent to LIV and an Aramark employee put it in an envelope and sealed it before the meeting. Also discussed was the lack of getting the necessary three bids. Example given was the five step asphalt repair.

Presidents Remarks-Burke
Had nothing but small talk


Manager Report-Horner
All work orders completed, seven building permits, condo fees late, problem letters sent to owners, 4 returned. Armando was sick and missed the meeting.

Directors Speaking
P.Burke made comments about the letter sent to an owner about their grill on top of their shed for about ten minutes. Also Dir. Guerra and P. Burke talked back and forth about code violations on this undisclosed lot number.

Approval of Minutes July
Motion made and past.

Treasurer’s Report-Steffensen
Treas. Stefffensen went through the report line by line. Profit and loss-net income and every center was a higher loss than last year except the news letter. She talked about the various bonds that LIV has.There was questions of why we are keeping the restaurant open if it keeps losing money along with if it is a true amenity, why isn’t it open year round?

Committee’s Reports

a. D&E-White said there will be two events in October, a cocktail party on the 24th w/Angie, and a Halloween party on the 31st w/ Mangling Wranglers

b. Golf-Pelletier-N/A

c. Pool-Steffensen said old wrist bands will not be allowed to be exchanged.

d. Finance-Steffensen N/A

e. Other-Burke said there is an opening for the Security Committee. Anyone interested is to put a letter in her box. There was mentioned about a Securitas score card.

Unfinished Business

a. Paving Contract-Pelletier discussed the patching and the receiving of only one bid. Made a motion to approve $16,989 to repair rated items 1 and 2 on his list. After some discussion the motion was removed and tabled due to discovering no warranty and that the contractor having less than a year background. Owner SC 57 asked Dir. Pelletier if he rated East and West Scallop for any repairs. Dir. Pelletier replied no. Owner said there were several large pot holes he would like to show him.

b. Refrigeration Bids-Steffensen discussed three bids for one refrigerator to replace two in the restaurant. A Village owner helped the Board understand the energy efficiency differences between the three and favored going with the cheapest bid. Motion made to approve $3589 plus tax for new refrigerator. Motion approved. There was a longer discussion on what to do with the old regrigerators.

c. Rental Hall Rates & Forms-Burke spent twenty minutes going through all the rates and logic behind the rates. Rates were too numerous to mention. P.Burke verbally motioned for one of the director to make a motion to approve the changes. Motion made and passed.

d. Arts & Crafts-Burke said she couldn’t discuss this topic since Armando was not present. Then there was some orientation by our ex-gm and his wife on what changes they wanted to have in the room.

New Business

a. Pool Tables-Halbach made a motion to approve $3400 to recover the pool tables. Motion passed.

b. Better Business Bureau-Burke said she didn’t have the time to get to it yet. Moved to table.
c. Dog Issue-Burke said an owner wanted permission to keep puppies after breeding. P.Burke had questions about if this is a business along with receiving complaints about controlling her existing dogs. P. Burke asked the Board if we want to encourage or discourage this owner.

d. Clarification of 6.3 Policy-Use of Owners Lounge-Burke discussed the wording and it was decided that owners only can use the lounge, no owner sponsoring for renters or others. Not included here was P.Burke 15 minute reading word for word of the rules along with her comments? Also said the $50 charge is a refundable deposit and not a non refundable fee.

e. Lot 795 & 796 Owner Wanting Hearing-Montalvo-P.Burke spoke on this saying this will be talked about in executive session.

f. Ole Television Presentation Eddie and Sandy gave a sales pitch to have our Village sponsor a show or have commercial spots. These people cater the high income audience market in the Valley and Mexico. Costs start at around $7500.

Other Some small talk and broke to go to an executive session.

Adjournment


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9/23/ 2009 COFFEE WITH THE DIRECTORS

Pledge of Allegiance

Directors Gagan, Bergsma, and Montalva were not present

From the Suggestion Box
SC 13 wanted the grass mowed and said whoever put in the asphalt in front of the Activity Center should not be paid for doing such a poor job. He also asked who OK’d that work.
Lot ? Asked if the rusted hot tub heater chimney pipes are going to be replaced?
Lot 288 thanked our new GM and maintenance staff for fixing some the things that have been an eyesore for so long.

Comments from the Directors
Director Guerra asked if the BBQ sitting on top of a structure had been removed. Response was notification letter was sent about code violation and haven’t received a response.
Director White said a Mr. Flores from the Census Bureau would like an audience with the Villagers.
Armando explained why the mowing was behind. There was rain and a death in the family that affected several employees. He also mentioned that he and the new GM were mowing.

Comments from the audience
Lot 870 gave a compliment to security. He also said he had continuous problems with barking dogs from a certain Sea Cottage.
After being asked, our Bridge Board President explained that two of the bridge lawsuits that LIV had previously won are being appealed.
Lot 870 said he had smelled a sewage odor around the pool. P. Burke said it is coming from Sun Harbor.
Lot ? Asked if at the next meeting there can be a discussion about what can be done with her problem of getting mortgage loans in our Park.
It needs to be noted that the manager in charge of Securitas, Mr. Salazar has been to every Coffee meeting since he took over the position.

Workshop
Treas. Steffensen said she would like to talk about at the next meeting that they are getting three bids for our refrigerator in Village Grille that has rusted out and needs to be replaced. The restaurant ceiling is being worked on. The menu is going to be changed a little. She will discuss the LIV’s CD. There was a question about trading out pool wrist bands because of sanitary reasons.
V.P. Halbach said he went to a dust meeting on what things that can be done solve this problem. Mulching certain areas was mentioned. He said he would keep everyone posted at what happens in the upcoming meetings. He made a negative comment about our Village Attorney. He mentioned the pool tables need to be recovered again, and the cost will be brought up at the Reg. Meeting.
Dir. Pelletier said in his opinion the hurricane manual was very well done and will be on the web site. He and Dir. Guerra opened one sealed bid for the road repairs.
Director Guerra asked if they could cut the rust off and replace the metal on that refrigerator for the restaurant. Answer was no.
Dir. White gave the update on the sound system and lights for D&E. She said Hot Dog day was a success and raised $ 320 for habitat of humanity. She had questions on mosquito fogging and asked if there can be less fogging the streets and more in the grass area this year.
P. Burke talked about possibly joining the Better Business Bureau. She said she had received two invitations from the Port Isabel Table of Commerce to join festivities which she and the GM will attend. Boys and Girls Club wants LIV to be sponsors which will be talked about at the next meeting. The committee formed for pricing the rent of the Rec. Hall came up with a list of charges. After P.Burke went through all of it, there still was some confusion about the charges which seemed to take this back to the drawing board. There was an issue about an owner asking if they could keep a litter of puppies for several weeks until they are sold. P. Burke asked the audience if anyone would like to make a comment on this. Larry DeMalade raised his hand and asked when is the work to be completed here in the Arts & Crafts room.
Dir. Pelletier wanted owners to send a bunch of letters to the City of Port Isabel about a condemned property being an eyesore on Garcia St.
There was small talk that did not pertain to the workshop.
Meeting adjourned.



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