Meeting – 03/30/14
A special meeting of the Board was held on Sunday, March 30, 2014 at the office of Board President Bruce Wilson. Present in person and by teleconference were: President Bruce Wilson; Secretary Debbie Director; Treasurer Donnee Ramelli; ARC Head Paul Salditt; Vice President Mary Haverback and staff member Phyllis Donovan.
President Wilson requested the proposed budget for 2014 as the first item for discussion at the meeting. Changes to the proposed budget included reducing the amounts designated for the capital study and increasing miscellaneous capital expenditures. Other changes included an increase in the line item for snow removal as a result of actual expenses, and change in donations. Bruce Wilson reported that he had spoken with Maureen Brown, Beach Club Manager, about beach equipment purchases. In the past, North Shores had ordered beach chairs with a white powder coat finish, which added approximately $20.00 to the cost of each chair. The finish was not contributing to the durability of the chairs, leading to the decision that this year’s chair order will be the regular aluminum finish. The chair order will be increased to expand the number of chairs available for rental. Bruce reported that use of wooden chairs had been explored as possibility. Further investigation revealed that the weight of the chairs would require a new truck, trailer and storage hut that would need to be located on the beach. ARC head Paul Salditt commented on the difficult task of locating a storage hut on the beach. The discussion concluded with the decision not to undertake the transition to wooden chairs this year.
President Wilson proposed increasing the proposed maintenance assessment this year to $2250.00 to allow adequate funding of key areas of the budget. The proposed increase in the maintenance assessment unanimously approved.
Phyllis Donovan, bookkeeper, reported that progress was being made on preparing for the April 15 mailing. Phyllis is preparing homeowner assessment bills. President Wilson and Secretary Debbie Director are currently preparing other documents for the mailing.
Current construction applications were the next item for discussion. 14 Ocean Drive submitted an application for a beach crossover. Discussion involved the type of construction, its elevation and handrail, and homeowner responsibility related to damages and liability. 16 Cardinal Lane submitted plans for a new garage and rooftop deck. Discussion involved the proposed plans compliance with North Shores set back requirements and covenant compliance. 19 Harbor submitted plans to construct and pergola that will require a height variance from Sussex County. President Wilson will request neighbor input on the proposed project. North Shores will not take a formal position regarding the variance absent neighbor input.
Treasurer Donnee Ramelli reported that the beach was in good condition after the winter. Tidal pool were developing between two ridges of sand, indicating a sand build up. He also reported that the sand fence is being covered by about a third, with the sand accumulation.
Bruce Wilson reported that minor repairs will be made to the pool surface before the season opens. Additional resurfacing and underground drain valve work will be scheduled for the fall.
Vice President Mary Haverback reported that preparations for this year’s annual Memorial Weekend party were in the final stages. The party will contract with the same caterer that was used last year. Some modification of food placement will be made to improve the setup. Mary reported that the invitations will be included in the annual mailing. Bruce Wilson will ask for volunteers to organize a July 4th cookout at the annual meeting.
Time restrictions led to the postponement of some agenda items. Tabled items included: the City of Rehoboth Outfall Project; Website Inventory System update; Office Improvement report; and the Capital Asset survey.