Our community faces significant challenges. Here are the top issues with our proposed solutions.
Sod and Irrigation
Situation
Sod and Irrigation are inextricably linked and are in unacceptable condition. Irrigation system has outlived its useful life. Deferred maintenance of sod treatments and irrigation has led to an invasion of torpedo grass, weeds, fungus and cinch bugs.
Target
Quickly restore our landscaping for all PRIVATE and COMMON areas to its formerly pristine condition. Set industry performance standards for sod and irrigation contractors including measure of client satisfaction.
Proposal
Develop comprehensive , TOTAL COST, long term plan. Develop funding plan including replacement, maintenance and life cycle management. Temporarily defer major discretionary items such as Sales Center and Pool Furniture. Use experts and resident committees to research, analyze and recommend. Assume no compensation from potential Ball Janik lawsuit.
Storm Water Ponds
Situation
Our residential stormwater management ponds show signs of needed ecological maintenance. Conditions visible on the surface raise concerns. It is unsightly and can impact property values. It is also a sign of water imbalance which supports unwanted vegetation, debris, and nutrients. This can harm fish life and birdlife. Debris and vegetative growth in ponds can reduce rainfall retainage volume of storms, a design impact.
Target
The time is now to address this concern and outline an approach to professionally rectify water quality issues within and compliant to the regulations of the Southwest Florida Water Management District, who has regulatory authority over these inland water bodies.
Proposal
1.Perform technical work required by SWFWMD with approvals. 2. Prepare a plan, specific scope of work for needed services. 3.Contact 3 experienced, qualified contractor/vendors for competitive bids. 4.Review bids, check references of all bidders, then accept and issue Contract. 5.Take immediate steps to mitigate basic maintenance procedures that harm pond water such as grass clippings, weeds and growth in and around ponds. 6.Begin a preventative maintenance program of stormwater system inlet structures and pipes where inspection and removal of debris is performed before washing into the ponds and Lake.
Controlled Access Gates
Situation
Gates are repeatedly nonfunctional requiring constant repair. Replacement parts are costly and hard to obtain. Equipment and operating systems have likely outlived their useful life. Security guard expense of $120,000 per year is unacceptable.
Target
Secure a reliable, cost effective controlled access security gate system to protect our property and ensure our safety.
Proposal
Establish an expert resident committee to research and propose alternative solutions. Solicit input for decision criteria from the community. Collaborate with other HOAs to identify performance standards and best practices and best vendors. Prioritize expenditure and implementation.
Lake House
Situation
The Lake House remains a distinguishing amenity driving satisfaction and property values. A switch to a professional manager has improved satisfaction. Financial performance remains at an annual net loss of approximately $300,000. Confusion remains on the best approach to resolve this issue.
Target
Optimize client satisfaction and financial performance.
Proposal
Utilize resident committee to research, analyze, and recommend the best business model. Utilize benchmarking of comparable HOA’s and private clubs associated with each business model to determine metrics of success and determine need for capital improvements. Share analysis and recommendation with residents.
Sales Center
Situation
The Sales Center is unused and incurs an annual operating cost of approx. $100,000. Future value is unclear due to the unquantified benefits and costs for ALL alternatives. Flawed and invalid survey was used to justify current plan for repurposing.
Target
Optimize benefits and reduce expenses.
Proposal
Postpone planned expenditure to re-purpose Sales Center as a "mini" Oasis. Re-establish committee. Work with local officials to explore ALL options.