As the water levels decreased over the past month, it was clear to see that the leaks (reported last month) at the spillway were being caused by large surface cracks.  The spur cement retaining walls of the spillway also have many large (approx 3" in width) cracks and are bowing, causing the integrity of the surrounding area to be in danger of caving in.  I have ordered a structural engineer to examine it (as was done) and recommend a course(s) of action in getting this repaired, and the timeframe required.  I should have their report within the next week.

It was recently made known to me that the Security Dept and the previous General Manager had ordered and received a badge maker system back in January, 2006.  Unaware of the selection process that was employed prior to the purchase order being issued, it is now known that the printer was placed in its box and the order was cancelled due to unresolved issues.  However, since the unit was a special order (non returnable unless faulty) and it was rendered functional as ordered, there is battle ensuing regarding the payment and liability for the unit purchase.  I have advised to hold off on the purchase of the Zebra system (reported last month) until this $7,000 + issue is resolved.  The Board may wish to vote on the Zebra system, pending the possible release from the previous obligation.

All of the Umbrella departments and committees are diligently working on 6 year plan revisions and an annual operations budget for 2007.  As you may know, with regards to the 6 year plan, it is very difficult, especially in a community that is 30+ years old, to adequately provide for what is expected and needed, while holding assessment increases to a minimum.   Remember that the Board, as that body usually having final word on assessments, has to 1) do its fiduciary duty to provide for the Community, 2) pay assessments as everyone else, and 3) understand how assessments affect resale value of your homes vs. surrounding areas.

 As a Community Manager, I am constantly faced with performing functions regarding GOVERNANCE and administration of the Community and being involved with issues more POLITICAL in nature. Certainly, my main objective is to always work for the good of the Community and provide for its health. During the last thirty years at HeatherRidge, many Boards and Managers have come and gone, some of which were more lax at enforcing rules than others.  Some are more political than others, some more demanding than others, some more relaxed, some more urgent, some with personal agendas, but most with good intentions and concern for the welfare of the Community in which they live and work.  Volunteers serving a Community are most always concerned and really want to do good for all.  Sometimes that involves creating conflicts with residents having their own motives and interpretations as to what's right and what's wrong, what's agreeable and what isn't. Different opinions are healthy.  That's why Committees and Boards change. New ideas and methods are always welcome in providing for growth and care in a community.

Resolving issues concerning GOVERNANCE of a community are usually clear. Rules are written, followed, enforced, or changed to reflect current needs and desires. And they are administered for the good of all and  as fairly as possible considering current and past procedures. Rules and governance exists to better the Association, even though to some it may not appear that way.  ..\umbrella/management_reportAUG06.htmlIssues that are POLITICAL in nature must be addressed by Management only to the extent of advisement.

Bob Marcus, CMCA, AMS Community Manager