Annual Meeting – 05/27/06
NORTH SHORES ANNUAL MEETING
Saturday, May 27, 2006
Approved May 26, 2007
Pro-tem President Paul Salditt called the meeting to order at 10:06 am, on Saturday, May 27, 2006. He explained that Fred Rockwell was out of the country and unable to attend. He introduced Board members Dan Anderson, Roy Parks, Jim Stallings, and the Board`s attorney, David Weidman, and staff members, Phyllis Donovan, Maureen Brown and Lee Stewart. He also mentioned Danny Donovan who was not in the room. There were 75 homeowners represented in person and 68 by proxy, for a total of 143, which constitutes a quorum.
The 2005 Minutes had been posted on the web site and mailed to all homeowners. Mrs. Anderson made a motion to dispense with the reading of the Minutes, and this was seconded by Roy Parks, and so moved.
Lee Stewart, the Security Supervisor, was introduced. He said that the patrols run 24 hours a day between North Shores and Henlopen Acres. Since they cannot be everywhere at once he asked the homeowners to be the “eyes and ears” and let security know if anything seems out of the ordinary. He also asked that homeowners provide rules for their renters.
There was again discussion regarding security checks inside of 21 Ocean Drive. Mr. Pratt said that many people in 21 Ocean Drive want the security back as it used to be. It was pointed out that they pay the same fee as everyone else, and should get the same service. Roy Parks said that we need to do tough negotiations with Henlopen Acres. Mr. Pratt said that he would have a representative from 21 Ocean Drive contact Roy Parks and Lee Stewart.
Maureen Brown, Manager of the Club and lifeguards, was then introduced. She said the rules are the same. An owner said that the rule regarding dogs on the beach should be enforced from 9 to 6 as posted, not just when guards are on duty. Maureen said they could do that but only when she had guards available. She also reminded everyone that bonfires on the beach are not permitted, and that there should be no standing on the jetty. A new larger flag will denote swimming conditions. She reported that a new handrail had been installed at the pool along with major repair to the steps. Only a few of last year`s lifeguard staff are returning, but the beach crew is the same. Since there will be new personnel, she asked that everyone bear with the staff as they learn their duties.
She reported there is an increase in the price of umbrellas and chairs this season. There is a list of babysitters at the pool and Jessie Green will be giving swim lessons. The beach looks great, and the pool is warm. One owner had a complaint about the beach service and Maureen said she would try to oversee it. She also said we will be putting up signs regarding the umbrellas being rented, in an effort of keep unauthorized usage under control. Mr. Zappa asked if more comfortable chairs could be bought.
Paul Salditt gave the President`s Report. He said God has been good to us and we had no bad storms. The beach looks the best it has in many years. The Covenants were passed and we have not experienced any real problems. Mr. Coan suggested a round of applause to show the appreciation of the homeowners for Paul`s work on the Amendment to the Covenants.
Dan Anderson gave a Financial Report. On April 17th the year-end financial report and Budget for 2006 was mailed to every homeowner. The Board is responsible for setting the budget under our Covenants. Last year our budget was in balance. The largest cost was for replenishment, which was approximately $1,000,000. This was financed by our own reserves and a bank loan, which was repaid within four months with our special assessments. Many thanks to all of you. He also pointed out that the ocean front homeowners paid almost double the regular assessment. On December 31st we had a reserve of $155,000. In addition we have a line of credit for $200,000 to be used for a “rainy day”. Assessments were $1450 per unit, which is the same as it has been for the past five years. We have no outstanding debts, and $204,000 in the bank at this time. George Luff, an independent CPA, reviews our accounts. Finally, none of this would be possible without Phyllis Donovan who keeps track of it all.
An owner asked why Snug Harbor`s assessment was so low. Phyllis explained that because we had used the jetty funds to help reduce our cost, and Snug Harbor had paid the full special assessment for the beach replenishment, the formula worked out with a large decrease in the assessment for Snug Harbor this year. However, next year it should return to the normal level.
An owner asked why there is no Directory expense for this year, and Phyllis explained that the Directory would be published every two years.
He then went forward with a Beach Report. We have wide strong dunes, and the beach is in the best shape in at least the last six years when the previous replenishment was done. Approximately 100,000 cubic yards of sand was placed on our beach. Since we have a private beach we are 100 responsible for the cost. We worked closely with Rehoboth Beach, Dewey Beach, Federal and State agencies and the dredging contractor. In addition we have planted 59,000 beach grass plants, and installed 2200` of sand and privacy fencing. Once a week we have the beach mechanically cleaned.
An owner asked what the status of the jetty repair was. Because the permits expired and could not be extended again, the project was abandoned since it might not be needed after replenishment. An owner said there is concern that the sand is going to erode because of the holes in the jetty. Roy Parks said that two years ago experts were here and all said the groins do not work, and are not properly designed. After some discussion it was suggested we proceed with the permitting process for whatever period of time is allowed, to have them in place when needed. Mr. Zappa suggested the Board look into the cost of correcting the present jetty design, or putting in a new jetty. Mr. Zappa made a motion to follow up on re-permitting and get permits in place. Dan Anderson asked Mr. Zappa if he is willing to serve on the committee. It was also pointed out that the Sierra Club would sue, just as they did before, to block any permits for the jetty. An owner suggested we table this discussion and move forward.
The office has received calls from homeowners who were having problems with Waste Management. After a few calls, Waste Management was reminded of their agreement to provide twice a week pick up in North Shores. However Phyllis pointed out that when the homeowner calls for the service to begin, they must specify they are residents of North Shores. Another owner said they called Moor Disposal and are getting twice a week pick up at a lower cost.
The next item was New Business. It was suggested that homeowners leave a note for their renters that trash is not to be left on the curb. Mrs. Stallings said that the flower gardens need to be weeded on a regular basis and suggested hiring someone specifically to do that weeding. Mrs. Santos said we should have a line item in the budget for landscaping instead of burying it in General Maintenance. Mr. Redington reported that the playground equipment needs some attention.
There was discussion regarding ticks. Mr. Redington said he had contracted with Brasure Pest Control to put down tick repellant. Dr. Stallings said that the best way to prevent Lyme disease is to check every day for ticks. If one is found, gently remove it using tweezers. Lyme disease will present itself with a red rash around the bite area in most cases. Mr. Collis said that Lowes has spray that can be used.
Candidates for the Board were introduced and asked to give any remarks they would like.
Mr. Ed Strickler said he is now a permanent resident. He has a business financial management background and is interested in enhancing the values of properties in North Shores.
Mrs. Joan Churchill said she feels serving on the Board is a way to give back to the community. She and her husband spend a great deal of time in North Shores. She has the time and energy to serve. She has experience, is very organized, is good with finances, and has experience with By-Laws, which she believes the Board should look at updating. She would like to see more usage of the web site and communication improvements through the use of emails.
Mr. Salditt stated that the ballots will be counted immediately following the meeting at the office and that the results will be posted on the web site and at the pool.
ADJOURNMENT
There being no further business the meeting was adjourned at 11:10 a.m.
PHYLLIS A. DONOVAN
Acting Secretary
ELECTION RESULTS:
Joan Churchill 93 votes
Ed Strickler 87 votes