March HBTS News

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HBTSNEWS

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Board Meeting

March 2015

March 10 at 6 p.m.

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This is a publication written and produced by Sandpaper Publishing, Inc./Navarre Press for the owners of HBTS and is not an official publication of Holley by the Sea Homeowners’ Association, Inc.

Contact Holley by the Sea

Transition Plan revealed and discussed 70 days later

President Alex Crawford Internal Vice President Open External Vice President Bill Crouch Treasurer Jan Frink Secretary Rebecca Ward Email the board: BoardofDirectors@ holleybythesea.org

A large crowd attends Holley By The Sea’s first board meeting of the year with a quorum on Feb. 10.

General Manager: Alex Fambri Email: generalmanager@ holleybythesea.org

Holley by the Sea Homeowners’ Association 6845 Navarre Parkway Navarre, FL 32566 850-939-1693

By Sandi Kemp HBTSnews.com Note to readers: The transition plan and time line as presented can be found at www.hbtsnews.com under the documents tab.

Seventy days after giving FirstService Residential a 60-day“nofault”notice of cancellation, board member Bill Crouch read a transition plan at the Feb. 10 regularly scheduled board meeting of the Holley by the Sea Board of Directors.

Half of the board, Jan Frink and Rebecca Ward, were hearing the plan for the first time, and so were the rest of the 100 people in attendance.

“I wish I had had this before the meeting,”member Kelly Smith told Crouch from the podium.“You kept saying,‘We this – we that’ – who is this we? Who are the competent people that are going to do all of these data transfers – and not cost us a dime?”

Crouch replied,“Are you competent enough?”

CURRENT HBTS RESIDENT

PRST STD ECRWSS MAILED FROM ZIP CODE 32566 PERMIT NO. 61-509

Second 60-day notice sent to FirstService on 61st day

By Sandi Kemp HBTSnews.com The first 60-day no-fault termination notice was handed to FirstService ResidentialVice President Dan Buckner on Dec. 2, directly after the board meeting.

On Jan. 9, FirstService Residential sent a letter to the board and the board attorney stating that the 60-day notice letter was neither official nor legal. Board President Alex Crawford never called a special board

meeting to discuss the legality of the first notice, nor the alternatives.

Many members wondered if the facility would be open Sunday, Feb. 1, and some were unsure whether the Fishing Club’s Super Bowl Party would take place as planned.

General Manager Alex Fambri went to the recreational facility that day in case something happened and many members showed up to support the See FirstService Page 3

Smith said he was concerned because the plan lacked specifics.

“You are very general in all of your statements on what you want to do,”he said, adding that previous bookkeeping, such as Excel and Quickbooks, didn’t work for HBTS in the past and cost between $10,000 and $20,000 for the software. He was concerned about transferring funds from the management company back to HBTS. See Transition Page 2

New Attorney taking questions from members Board selects general council Staff report HBTSnews.com Holley By The Sea’s Board of Directors unanimously approved hiring the law firm of Crew and Crew as the association’s general counsel at a special board meeting Feb. 19.

Other law firms considered included Litvak, Beasley, Wilson and Ball; Coastal, Weaver, Weaver and Collins; Becker and Poliakoff.

Crew will introduce himself prior to the March 10 board meeting and will be available from 5:30 to 6 p.m. in the café area. Crew will give a brief overview of the firm and respond to questions provided in advance.

Submit any attorney questions related to HBTS prior to Friday, March 6, via email to generalmanager@holleybythesea.org. Crew will respond to as many as possible in the time available.

Photo by Sandi Kemp

RECALL BALLOT UPDATE: ■ Have 1,450.

■ Need 2,360 Just 910 more Sent in the mail to John Longdin – address on ballot.

You can download from hbtsnews.com. Click on the documents tab or visit Hbtsnews.com/ Recall_Ballot.pdf See Ad on page: 11

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Valid through March 31, 2015

2 HBTSNEWS TRANSITION PLAN

March 2015 Koenig said.

Crouch tried to convey that the timeline wasn’t set in From page 1 stone and at one point said, “nothing is definite, except “Transfer all of our funds?” that FSR is leaving.”

Smith asked.“What are the Koenig asked Crouch to penalties?” clarify when he said that volFormer board president unteers could work in core Pete Peterzen repeated his areas as necessary. previous mantra that Holley “The number one core area by the Sea was previously is child care and that is a tough self-managed, and it didn’t one to fill with volunteers,” work.

Crouch said.“However, the “The definition of insanifront desk, I have 10 to 15 ty is trying the same thing people that have said they over and over again and would help.” expecting different results,” Member Jaime Francois Peterzen said. He suggested wanted to know what Crouch that the board put off the plan planned for childcare, and to self-manage until the new was irritated that Crouch board is seated this summer.

“Of the current board, four Photos by Sandi Kemp referred to it as“babysitting.”

“You are right – it is much positions will be open in the Jaime Francois addresses the board about her childcare concerns during the transition to self-management. more than that,”Crouch said.

July election, and the only “I’m not opposed to payperson on the board that was ing the 30 percent (liquid announced it tonight.” actually elected, was elected Childcare However, there is nothing with only 377 votes,”said At the meeting, former damages) to bring those two in the contract stating for- board president Christina people (the current two fullPeterzen referring to Board mer HBTS employees can- Koenig said the transition time licensed childcare President Alex Crawford. not be approached about plan seems too idealistic in providers) back in there – but Another gentleman from reemployment if the First- terms of finding good they are not the only fish in the crowd asked Crouch if Service contract is terminat- employees and she empha- the sea, there are other peothe purpose for terminating ed.

FirstService was to negotisized that parents rely on the ple that have licenses.”

Crouch also said the two “Why don’t you tell them facility for before- and afterate for a better contract. current childcare employees that they have jobs?You are school care.

“The whole purpose was going to leave 11 people money, way too much mon“I don’t feel that you will must fill out applications, but hanging for two months – find quality employees in a there are“other choices.” ey,” Crouch said.

“You are saying –‘I’m going and you want to run Billy Neal asked board timely matter, and to rip the two people out if this place?” said members if they were aware then, who is going to Longdin. that a recall was in place and train them?”Koenig there are better fish in the sea Architectural if they understood the reaasked. According to and completely transition’– Committee Chairsons why. the timeline, jobs will what about my children and man Pete “We are upset,”Neal said. be advertised March other parents’children? It is Waschenko ques“It has nothing to do with 1 and decisions on not just about me.

You want me to trust peotioned whether the FirstService – it is because of who to be retained core (essential) the actions of you two – plus from existing staff will ple that I’ve never met – are employees identi- Waschenko be made on March you out of your mind?”Franone that resigned – on the fied by the board decision that you made in 15.“I don’t have faith cois said.

The crowd applauded and would include new hires or that the plan will be as seamthe time that you have been Billy Neal express his disappointment with two of the board members during the Feb. 10 meeting. existing employees. in office. less as you think it will be,” Crawford said residents could not use the podium to make “My concern is that we You ask us to trust you and If we are not happy with the FirstService, the association that you have everything contract – let’s talk. And then is required to pay liquidated need someone that knows under control and you will if they say no – then give them damages of 30 percent of said the (architectural) office now,” he said.“I hope you are going make the decisions – but is 60 days’notice. Where is the employee’s annual salary. there a good decision that proof where is the facts where FirstService Residential to pay for certain employyou have made as a board – is the data presented to the General Manager Alex Fam- ees.”

Crawford said Holley by July 19: New board elected: Alex Crawford, Mike Scott, Carol Scott, Ryan as a group working togeth- members on this is why we bri estimated that the liquithe Sea does not have any Miller and Earl Dean. er? Why do we not have an are getting rid of them?” dated damages to retain all employees and that to date, July 29: Three board members resign: Mike Scott, Carol Scott and Earl attorney? Why do we have employees would be approxDean. actions and issues with both Employees imately $102,000, essential- no one has applied.

“It is my understanding July 29: Former Board President Pat Traynor, applies for receivership.

DEP and the County? Why Crouch’s transition plan ly negating all of the perthat many people wish to stay Aug. 3: Rebecca Ward accepts board’s nomination, squashing the threat of do you have the number of includes cutting nearly half ceived cost savings of not the members of this com- of the staff, from 35 to 14.5 having a management com- with FirstService and that is receivership. munity upset with the actions employees. However, a week pany per the Crouch transi- their choice,”Crawford said. Sept. 11: Board approves Bill Crouch and Jan Frink as board members.

Waschenko said he has Oct. 14: Board approves Brown’s Hauling as a vendor for erosion control of the board? Why do you after presenting the plan, he tion plan. spoken to employees and work. Bid comes in close to 50 percent less than next bidder. continue down this path that sent an email to the board John Longdin asked is tearing this community stating,“I think we should Crouch and Crawford why they didn’t know they need- Oct. 15: Board President Alex Crawford signs the contract.

Oct. 15: Crawford requests a blank check from management to pay Brown. apart? Accept what the mem- ask for them all and sort it they haven’t spoken with the ed to apply.

“They do now,”Crawford Oct. 22: Brown obtains workers’ compensation insurance. bers are telling – you Let’s out later. Work out the deal 11 employees who were with Oct. 30: Crouch and Crawford sign a change order for an additional $7,000 replied. come together. However, it and move on.”

Holley by the Sea before FirstNov. 6: Board meeting results in two more projects for Brown’s, totaling However, a call to the front seems only what the presiBut if the board decided to Service came on board. dent says – it is only what she keep all of the employees and “Since there is no penal- desk 16 days later revealed more than $20,000. wants.” “sort it out later,”HBTS would ty to retain those people – the only employment appli- Nov. 7: DEP visits the site and recommends work cease on the shoreline.

The audience applauded incur unnecessary costs. why aren’t we telling them cations available were those Nov. 10: Work is complete on the shoreline.

Neal’s comments.

According to the contract ‘if you want to work here – provided by FirstService as Nov. 10: Santa Rosa County representatives visit and determine the work part of its management con- was not properly permitted.

“You talk about it all about with FirstService Residen- you will be here April 1?” saving money – where is the tial, if Holley by the Sea hires Crawford said,“we cannot tract. Neither Crouch nor Nov. 11: (Veterans Day) Final invoice from Brown walked in by erosion discussion to negotiate with employees who were origi- go to the employees and ask Crawford have delivered committee member and board member.

FirstService on the contract. nally hired and trained by them – that is why we generic employment appli- Nov. 16: Treasurer refuses to pay Brown due to discrepancies. cations and job descriptions Nov. 17: Crawford calls FirstService 30 times and the association attorney have not been made avail- to find a way to get the check cut for Brown. Crouch hand-delivers Brown’s able for review.The only posi- check and also obtains a lien release. tion that has been advertised Nov. 18: Brown cancels workers’ compensation insurance. is the general manager posi- Nov. 21: Santa Rosa County gives HBTS 90 days to submit engineering tion and that was posted on drawings.

Indeed by a member after Dec. 2: Crawford praises work done by erosion committee. Has surprise vote Crouch posted the job to give FirstService Residential a “no-fault” 60-day notice. description on a closed Face- Jan 2: Board hires Municipal Engineering Services to satisfy county recommendations. DEP has moved their meeting to accommodate engineer from book page.

Volume 4 • Issue 4 According to the contract MESI – before they were officially selected. with FirstService Residen- Jan. 6: DEP compliance and enforcement meeting.

HBTS News is published monthly by Sandpaper Publishing Inc., HBTS News and its entire contents and style are fully tial, if Holley by the Sea hires Jan 9: FirstService Residential sends letter stating the 60-day notice letter protected by copyright and registered according to copyright laws. HBTS News cannot be reproduced in any form employees who were origi- was neither official nor legal. for any purpose without the expressed written permission of Sandpaper Publishing Inc. and Navarre Press. nally hired and trained by Jan 10: Town hall meeting regarding benefits of keeping FirstService ResiAdvertising/ Publisher FirstService, the association dential Sandi Kemp Marketing Manager is required to pay liquidated Jan 13: Board meeting with no quorum. Three of five board members are info@hbtsnews.com damages of 30 percent of said no-shows.

Gail Acosta Jan 20: Municipal Engineering Services sends email saying “No thank you.” employee’s annual salary. info@hbtsnews.com Editor Jan. 21: Engineering drawings due to county – extended due to DEP work.

Ashley Varese Jan. 21: Attorney Michelle Anchors resigns.

Next Steps Production Manager info@hbtsnews.com According to the timeline, Jan. 25: Recall announced; Ryan Miller resigns from the board Dickie Williams once FirstService Residen- Feb 2: Second “no-fault” 60-day notice was sent to management company info@hbtsnews.com tial’s contract expires, HBTS – 61 days after the first was sent. will collect access codes and Feb 10: Transition plan read to the membership 70 days after initial noTo Contact Us: keys from FSR personnel; fault notice. Two of the four board members were hearing it for the first HBTS News change alarm codes and locks time.

7502 Harvest Village Court where needed; have volun- Feb. 19: Board votes unanimously to hire Crew and Crew as general counsel Navarre, FL 32566 teers in place at core areas if for the association. necessary; hire a human Feb. 24: DEP agrees that the 90-day clock will start when a new engineerPhone: (850) 939-8040 resources company and hire ing company is selected.

Fax: (850) 939-4575 selected applicants; close cen- March 2: Special board meeting regarding human resources company selecWeb: www.HBTSNEWS.com ter on April 4 to conduct an tion.

E-mail: info@HBTSNEWS.com March 10: Regular board meeting. New general counsel will be in atteninventory of assets. dance.

Transition

Timeline

HBTSNEWS

HBTSNEWS 3

TRANSITION PLAN SECOND 60-DAY NOTICE SENT March 2015

bership) before you did this.” personal remarks.

Member Ed Goode “We know it is important to have childcare – I was a inquired why the board keeps working mother myself. It is saying the reason for termiimportant that the parents nating FSR was financial, but like the caregivers. Let me there was no mention of the assure you we will have care- financial impact.

“Is this going to save mongivers,” Crawford said.

Francois also asked Craw- ey or increase costs?”he asked.

Crouch made reference to ford why she requested contact information for the par- the town hall meeting in January where his wife handed ents who use childcare.

“Childcare was one of the out a spreadsheet of costs reasons that we did not pur- savings if the association was sue the fact that we had giv- self-managed.

“So, what you presented en legally sufficient notice; it was entirely about childcare,” tonight is a mirror image of the cost analysis?”Alex CrawCrawford said.

Crawford also stumbled ford nodded her head no and with the time frame of the Bill Crouch said yes.

Member Mary Langdon said second 60-day notice – saying it was 30 days – then 90 she read the contract and is days and finally settling on concerned that FirstService makes 25 percent off of every a 60-day notice. employee. She gave Francois asked her an example, stating to destroy the parwith $1 million in ents’ contact inforsalary, FirstService mation to which would make $250,000 Crawford agreed. of the top. Crawford Member Bob started to agree with Bower thanked the her, until Frink corboard and praised rected her that the 25 members’ intent to percent included FICA, save money.

Bower FUTA, other taxes, “I would have expected to have had this training, cellphones, uniforms (transition plan) in Decem- and more.

“Twenty-five percent is the ber,” Bower said.“Good first start, but I would think we labor burden – which is a lot would need three more meet- more than other companies,” ings like this to work on the Crawford said.

In a slide presented by Crawdetails.”

Bower said FirstService ford at the Feb. 19 special meetreceived one 60-day notice ing,“labor burden”was defined and then another.“We are as payroll taxes (FICA, FUTA, jerking them around. This SUTA,) Workers Comp, human could have waited until you resources services, fee for paygot buy in (from the mem- roll processing, and tracking for not destroying our community. But, I am guns blazing in getting rid of FSR. From page 1 Tomorrow, I am all about a employees, but there was day off and encouraging my no action taken. favorite team to win. GO Unbeknownst to many, team.” the evening before, on SatA certified return receipt urday, Jan. 31, at letter was sent to 5:22 p.m., Board FirstService on President Alex February 2nd, that Crawford sent an stated“By this letemail to the board ter we do not with the subject acknowledge that “Sunday and going the prior notice was forward.” invalid but in an “While in no way abundance of cauam I suggesting that Crouch tion, we are sendthe letter of termiing you this second nation to FSR was in any notice of termination so there way invalid - it was in fact is no question that the conlegally sufficient - it would tract is terminated sixty (60) be harmful to the commu- days from this date at latnity to close the Rec Center est.” to make this point,” she Long-time Holley by the wrote in the email.“There Sea attorney Michele are concerns about the child Anchors resigned on Jan. care on which so many par- 21. However, in an email ents depend, that for now sent to select residents Feb. this option is on hold.”

2 and posted on the ourhbtExternal Vice President, slife.com website, Crawford Bill Crouch replied,“I am all wrote,“Neighbors, A certi-

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sick time and vacation time.

The labor burden is also affected by the code necessary for workers’compensation insurance. A clerical worker’s code will have a lower cost versus a code for a maintenance worker or a pool chemical handler, which would be much higher. The codes used for the quotes from the payroll processing companies presented at the special meeting were the existing codes. However, Crawford and Crouch have a cost savings of bringing the pool service in house on their cost savings analysis which would drive the worker’s compensation codes a lot higher.

Also, there was one company that already had a nearly 22 percent labor burden – which is not“a lot more”than the current cost – as Crawford has presented it to be.

As of Feb. 26, none of the transition items scheduled for completion on Feb. 20 were accomplished.

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fied registered letter was sent to the attorney at FSR. This is the second and final 60-day notice of termination. While I believe and have been advised by our previous attorney that the first notice was legally sufficient, in an abundance of caution we are sending this final one. I believe that this approach is in the best interest of all homeowners and best preserves the peace in our community.”

On Feb. 3, former board member Beth Walter sent the following email out to the board.

“I understand that a second letter to terminate FSR has been sent,”she wrote.

“As a former board member I find this action to be against our covenants and by-laws. A legal letter was sent to each board member by FSR stating that the termination letter originally submitted to them was not valid. It is NOT the board president's sole

responsibility to respond to this letter. The response should be a BOARD decision and not just one individual's decision. This should be brought to an open board meeting for discussion and motion.”

New general counsel for the association, Crew & Crew, was selected at the Feb. 19 special meeting. The firm has yet to make a public determination on the Dec. 2 or the Feb. 2 notice. From the general manager’s column: Mr. Crew will introduce himself prior to the March 10 board meeting and will be available from 5:30 to 6 p.m. in the café area.

Crew will give a brief overview of the firm and respond to questions provided in advance. Submit any attorney questions related to HBTS prior to Friday, March 6, via email to generalmanager@holleybythesea.org. Crew will respond to as many as possible in the time available.

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4.

Why didn’t you read Earl Dean’s resignation letter and Mike and Carol Scott’s resignation letter when they resigned. Would you mind reading them at the next meeting? I have them if you need them.

When contacted for comment, Why didn’t you think it Crawford and Crouch declined. was important to comCrawford refused to answer pare the health plans that the the following questions: employees are currently privy What was your reason- to – when comparing HR ing for sending another Companies?

60-day notice to FSR after the Why didn’t you think it first 60-day notice expired? was important – when Why do you think your comparing costs – to considsecond 60-day notice is er the things that First Service any more valid than the orig- provides in the 25% charged inal 60-day notice that you for each employee – which also handed to the representative covers employment taxes, etc.? of FSR at the Dec. 2 meeting? You will still need background Did you write Ryan checks, drug screenings, and Miller’s resignation let- training – and those would be ter? an additional cost to the asso-

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Board President Alex Crawford addresses residents at the podium during the Feb. 10 meeting.

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2.

Transition plan: Why was Alex Crawford very familiar with your new transition plan, but Jan Frink and Rebecca Ward were not familiar with your transition plan?

What in your background qualifies you to lead the largest homeowner’s association from a management company to self-management?

How many employees do you plan on having at HBTS – the day after the transition?

Why do you post things on Facebook and then not answer people when they have questions?

Crouch refused to answer the Why are you so enamfollowing questions: ored with Cloud comTransition plan: The transition plan you presented puting?

What makes you think at the February 10 meeting.Was the second“no-fault” it sent to Jan Frink or Rebecca notice to FSR is valid?

Ward prior to the meeting?

ciation and not included in the percentages that you presented at the special meeting on Feb. 19.

What is your past experience that makes you think that you can totally reorganize the largest homeowner’s association in north Florida?

What would have happened if FSR decided to take you up on your first 60day notice and just walked out on February 1? How will you be more prepared now – than you were then?

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4 HBTSNEWS

FIRSTSERVICE RESIDENTIAL RECEIVES AWARD MEMBER FEELS MISLED BY CRAFORD PRECEDENT: MILLER’S RESIGNATION LETTER March 2015

FirstService Residential Receives 2015 Florida Community Association Journal Readers’ Choice Diamond Award -Florida’s Leading Community Association Management Company Rises Above Its Competitors(Hollywood, FL – February,2, 2015): FirstService Residential has been awarded the Diamond Award in the Management category by the Florida Community Association Journal (FLCAJ), the state’s most respected and widely read industry publication.

The annual FLCAJ Readers’ Choice Award showcases community association service

providers from a variety of industries that have demonstrated, through their commitment to the community associations they serve, an exemplary level of proficiency, reliability, fairness and integrity. This year, 300 such providers competed and 7,400 votes were cast.

“FirstService Residential is very proud to have received this prestig i o u s award,”said David Diestel, President of the South Region for FirstService Residential.

“Our goal is to make a difference

“Our goal is to make a difference every day for the communities we manage by elevating property values and enhancing the lifestyles of the residents we serve.”

–David Diestel, President of the South Region for FirstService Residential. every day for the communities we manage by elevating property values and enhancing the lifestyles of the residents we serve. It is truly gratifying to have our clients and the vendors we work with take the time to cast their votes for us and validate our efforts!”

About Florida Community Association Journal Florida Community Association Journal provides new and vital information to operators of Condominiums, homeowners associations, cooperatives, timeshares and other multi-unit communities every month since its

founding in 1987 as Managers Report in West Palm Beach, FL. For more information, visit http://www.fcaj.com/main.cf m.

About FirstService Residential FirstService Residential is a subsidiary of FirstSer-

vice Corporation, a global leader in the rapidly growing real estate services sector, one of the largest markets in the world. As the largest residential property manager in North America, FirstService Residential oversees more than 6,500 residential and commercial associations including 1.5 million residential units and over 50 million square feet of commercial space across 21 U.S. states and three provinces in Canada.

Member feels misled by Crawford Precedent: Ryan Miller’s resignation letter read at board meeting On July 29, 2014, 10 days after the election, Mike Scott, Carol Scott and Earl Board president Dean resigned withAlex Crawford took in hours of each othtime out of a threeer. The Scotts listed hour meeting Feb. 10 two reasons for to read Ryan Miller’s Miller resigning. The first full resignation letter mentions that they which he submitted were a married couJan. 25. The letter ple and didn’t real(1441 words) is also ize the perceived placed on Crawford’s conflict of interest and Bill Crouch’s that became apparindependent webent immediately folsite, www.ourhbtlowing the election. slife.com.

The second reason However, three Dean given was,“We have other board members have quit since Craw- a very ambitions new Presford became board president ident who has assigned us and she has not read aloud multiple tasks before we have their resignation letters or had a chance to train for our placed them on the website. jobs – before doing our jobs.”

Earl Dean wrote in an Several members have asked if someone other than Miller email,“The president has a wrote his resignation letter, leadership problem. Three and no one will confirm or board members resign in one deny the actual author of day. All because of her friend Miller’s resignation letter, Melinda Roberson over stepping her bounds as a memincluding Miller.

Staff Reports HBTSnews.com

Photo by Sandi Kemp

Dawn Griffith told Alex Crawford she wouldn’t vote for her again.

Staff Reports HBTSnews.com Member Dawn Griffith addressed HBTS Board President Alex Crawford at the Feb. 10 board meeting regarding Crawford’s election platform and expressed that she felt duped into voting for her.

“You came to my door – you wanted me to vote for you,”Griffith said.“There was nothing in your speech to say that there would be such disdain in this organization.You never said you wanted to get rid of the management company. You were concerned about your daughter’s use of the pool. If I had to vote for you again – I would not.”

Griffith also said she didn’t like the way Crawford set up the board meeting by putting two board members on one side of the room and two on the other – creating a literal division of the board.

Regarding the firing of FirstService, Griffith said Crawford was dictating to which she received loud applause. Crawford gaveled her and said that Griffith was not“allowed to make personal remarks.”

Griffith also expressed disappointment that Crawford gave an interview to Channel 3 News on Jan. 27 regarding the HBTS stormwater issues with Florida Department of Environmental Protection and the engineer quitting over the banter of the membership.

“You put all of our garbage out there, why didn’t you handle it internally?”Griffith asked.

Several times during Griffith’s speech, audience members applauded their approval.

Crawford responded by saying,“I will recess this meeting if we cannot be civil,”to which the crowd started laughing.

From the General Manager’s Column The Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP) has agreed to suspend the 90day deadline for submission of the “as-built-certification” for the compliance issue regarding the erosion project. The countdown will begin

again when a replacement engineering firm has been selected. The board will take on that task at one of the March meetings.

Several engineering firms have submitted proposals that can be viewed on the community web-

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site under the contract tab (http://fsrsouth.fsrconnect.com). Once the engineering firm decision has been made the forward progress for a solution within a consent order can be achieved. FDEP will allow us to proceed with some repairs to the

fishing pier with permits outside of the compliance issue. Other projects like the parking lot will follow once the county and DEP are satisfied.

Note: We are not allowed to repair our parking lot until FDEP has been satisfied.

HBTS Bingo Join the fun!

2015 Schedule Wednesday’s 6:45 pm Early Bird – 6:15 pm 1st and 3rd Wednesday of the month

AARP TAX-AIDE PREPARES FREE TAX RETURNS Walk-in tax preparation will be staffed by IRS certified volunteers at the Navarre Library again this year. Electronic filing is provided for the low to moderate income tax payers, with special attention to those ages 60 and older. The AARP Tax-Aide volunteers will be at the Navarre Library from 9 AM to 1 PM each Thursday, Friday, and Saturday starting Thursday February 5, 2015 through Saturday April 11, 2015. Picture ID is required and bring last year’s return.

with the First Servber, not a board ice Letter Head, member.” His forWhat happen to mal resignation letHolley by the Sea ter is printed below Home Owner Assoas it was submitted ciation, we are now to the board: First Service. For that “Alex, I was not I am giving you my aware that I had to M. Scott Resignation. All that be coursed out by a friend did to day was friend of yours in the bad mouth me to parking lot in front of Jackie in my face as an Board president if I was not there. To and told that I was my objection you wrong and I should chose and directed allow a member to and your friend a curse me out and tell member to do my me F for me to get my C. Scott job as the elected ass out of a parking External Vice Preslot that I have the same right as she, and insult ident a Friend over a electme be telling mee that I was ed Board member. You jealous of her because she Forced me to resign. was smarter than her, talking to me like I was a PC of Mr. Earl B. Dean trash and this, call me MF, USAR CW3 Retired and so many other fail nasty US Government Retired GS 12 names because she was directed by the President to All resignation letters can be do the External Vice Presi- found at HBTSnews.com under dents Job with MY objection. the documents tab.

And to send me something

Saturday – March 14 or April 25 Adult, Infant, and Child CPR and AED: 9:00 a.m.– 12:30 p.m.

First Aid: 12:30 p.m. – 2:30 p.m.

(This is not a separate class.

Student must take CPR prior to First Aid) Cost: $40 for Adult, Infant, and Child CPR AED $55 for Adult, Infant, Child CPR & First Aid A minimum of 4 students is needed for a class Instructor: Laurie Pinter (850) 221-9146

March 4 & 18 April 1 & 15 May 6 & 20 June 3 & 17 July 1 & 15

August 5 & 19 September 2 & 16 October 7 & 21 November 4 & 18 December 2 & 16

HBTSNEWS 5

NEW GENERAL MANAGER AT HIDDEN CREEK $685K UNDERWATER PIPE REPAIR March 2015

New general manager brings experience to Hidden Creek $685K underwater pipe repair

By Brian Lester info@hbtsnews.com Jim Morgan knows he has his work cut out for him as the new general manager of The Club at Hidden Creek Morgan Golf Course.

The course has been struggling financially under the ownership of the Holley-Navarre Water System, which bought Hidden Creek in 2012, and Morgan is looking forward to turning things around.

“I look forward to the challenge,” Morgan said Monday afternoon, his first day on the job.“It appears it has underperformed but I know we can get it to where it will perform and get back on the plus side.

People will appreciate that.

There will be some bumps along the way, but we will get this course to where we want it to be.”

At the HNSW board meeting Feb. 17, board members discussed the salary for the general manager position being set at $72,000 per year. However, when asked Feb. 20 after the board announced Morgan’s hiring, HNSW General Manager Ken Walker

refused to confirm his salary.

In terms of background, Morgan brings a wealth of experience with him to Hidden Creek.

Nearly 15 years ago, he helped build and then run Shark’s Tooth Golf Club in Panama City. The course was designed by former PGA star Greg Norman.

Morgan worked there from 2001 until 2007 as the construction and ground superintendent.

“I was there from the beginning,” Morgan said.

“Greg came out a few times and I had a chance to work with him. It was a pretty neat project.”

Morgan worked at a private course in his native Colorado before moving to Florida. He spent 10 years as the superintendent of Bay Point Resort Golf Club in Panama City.

Prior to taking the job at Hidden Creek, he worked as a consultant with various venture capital groups involved in family entertainment. His job required frequent trips to the Northeast.

As with any new job, it takes time to get a feel for how things work, and that is what Morgan is focused on during his first week.

“I’m getting settled in and looking at the operation and how they have been doing things here,” Morgan said.“I want to get to know everyone here and understand what the role of each person is. I love hearing stories of how things used to be, but to me, the past doesn’t matter. We’re focused on the present. We want to make this place look good.”

He said his initial impressions are that the employees genuinely care about doing their jobs well. Morgan said he has thought about ways to get the course back on track but doesn’t have anything specific to discuss at the moment.

But that will change with time.

“As I get going and become more familiar with everything, it will trigger ideas,”Morgan said.“I want to come up with good plans for the future of this course and turn it around.”

Using the course for events outside of golf, such as weddings, is one possibility, but Morgan also wants to see golf-related events take place throughout the year.

“Looking at the calendar right now, there are no (golf) events on it,” Mor-

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gan said. “I want to talk with the head pro here and a couple of other people involved with golf and see what we can come up with.”

Morgan said at every other course he has worked at, golfing events were the norm. He said Norman hosted events on occasion at Shark’s Tooth.

“Every other place I’ve been, we’ve always had member-member or member-guest events,”Morgan said.“Maybe it’s not something the club is interested in doing anymore or that membership isn’t interested in. I want to get outside groups in here to play. I would love to see it happen.”

In addition to hiring Morgan, Hidden Creek hired Jason Hughes as the executive chef for the club’s restaurant. Hughes will oversee food preparation, menu design and kitchen operations, in addition to banquet, wedding and event catering.

Hughes was born in Mobile, Ala., but grew up in Gulf Breeze. He was mentored by chefs at Commander’s Palace and Gautreau’s in New Orleans and the Flamingo Café and Rutherford’s 465 in Destin.

should alleviate ‘smelly’ water

Photo by Romi White

Crews install a new pipe to restore water distribution from HolleyNavarre Water System wells in Milton to south Santa Rosa County.

By Romi White info@hbtsnews.com After nearly a year, repairs to a water pipe that burst under East Bay from a suspected lightning strike are almost complete, said Paul Gardner, assistant general manager of HolleyNavarre Water System (HNWS).

The first contractor hired to repair the damage, Minnesota-based United Pipeline Systems, was unable to complete the job, forcing the delay. HNWS contracted the second lowest bidder, T.B. Landmark, in December for $685,000.

Since the pipe burst, the department has used local wells and some residents have complained of "rotten egg" smells coming from residential faucets. Navarre Beach Utilities Supervisor Terry Wallace said the odor is due to naturally occurring high levels of hydrogen in area water. He

said the underwater pipeline repair should remedy the issue.

Gardner expects the work to be completed by Feb. 19. He said related tasks and water quality testing will take place prior to restoring regular service to customers of HNWS, Midway Water System, Navarre Beach Water and Sewer Department and the City of Gulf Breeze's utility services department. The supply will come from wells in East Milton.

United Pipeline Systems was initially contracted to repair the line for $414,000. Ken Walker said UPS fabricated pipe for the project but after arriving on site realized they couldn't perform the repair.

A settlement was reached with the company to compensate them for $125,000 for the cost of the fabricated pipe and $25,000 in travel expenses related to performing the work.

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6 HBTSNEWS LETTER TO THE BOARD HUMAN RESOURCES COMPANY VOTE TABLED March 2015

Letter to the board Board, I have commented several times about my concerns about the transition plan. I believe the plan is flawed. This "plan" should have been begun before a notice of contract cancelation was given. That brings me to the point of contract cancelation - I don't believe either of the two cancellations were handled correctly. The Dec. 2, 2014, meeting agenda was improperly managed. There was a vote on an item that was DISCUSSION only.

Again, I caution you about any potential legal ramifications: 1. You have spoken about a transition team. Where are they and who are they? Please inform!

2. Re: the attorney and selection, I believe this is also a discussion and motion for selection. It may be prudent to discus and then have a second interview with our top two candidates.

3. You ask about CAMs and sent some resumes. Do we plan to interview all of them?

Or will we narrow the field and interview the top 4 or 5 candidates? Frankly, I am more interested in the quality of the resumes that we have. Also, have previously asked WHO we plan to interview. Should we need to advertise for additional CAM or PCAMs I believe we should have a BOD vote for funds.

4. What makes you think ALL staff wouldn't want to stay with HBTS? Why would existing staff need to submit a resume?

5. Regarding engineers: Where is the information about the engineers and their quotes? Once again, you have made a "side run" around the BOD. 6. Executive Session: Regarding staff and making a determination as to who we might need??? Might I ask, how do you think any staff would have a resume available on such short notice?

7.You are asking me to take on the youth program??? Really, after the last BOD meeting and the parents’ great dissatisfaction - why would I jump into this MAJOR problem? This is your "party" and you have already secured the information about the parents participating. The youth program should remain as it is with the licensed and certified personnel. These are people that the parents know and trust. The program, as a whole, makes money. Why would you change a money maker?

These are just some of my current concerns. I would certainly appreciate any answers you can provide.

I did not get a response to my last questions regarding the same issue.

Thanks, Rebecca Ward Secretary HBTS

Human resources company vote tabled ever, according to the cost nies to get more informasavings explained in the tion. But board member transition plan, HBTS will Rebecca Ward disagreed.

“This is premature,”Ward Early in the discussion bring the pool mainteregarding human resource nance in house which will said. “We do not have companies at the Feb. 19 require different workers’ enough information. I do special board meeting it comp codes and will cost not think a selection should be made at this time. became evident that mem- more.

The board also discussed Former board president bers did not have enough information to make a deci- Mike Hart was surprised the lack of a comparison that so many variables were between current services sion. and services provided by Currently, HBTS left up in the air.

“We interviewed HR potential firms. employees have 100 perThe board voted to concent coverage for their before,”he said.“We had health care though they quotes to the dime. There tinue the discussion at its are aware that could seems to be a lot of holes March 2 special meeting change in the future. here. It is a big deal - we after obtaining more inforHowever, no one checked shouldn't take this light- mation with some help from two volunteers from into health care policies ly.” the audience,Yvonne HarpCrawford wanted to vote offered by the companies on two of the four compa- er and Mary Langdon. being considered.

“Some may not need health care, like a wife, may be getting it from her husband,”Crawford said. She said all of the companies offered health care and that detail could be sorted out later.

“We are paying $485 now. Landrum and Progressive said they could come in under WATER SAFTEY (SWIMMING) that,”she said.

INSTRUCTOR at HBTS There are also some STARTS: Wed. May 6, 5:00 p.m. – 8:45 p.m. discrepancies over the ENDS: Sun. May 17, 6:00 p.m. workers’ compensation codes.

Wednesdays: May 6 and May 13, 5:00 p.m. – 8:45 p.m.

“I picked the codes Fridays: May 8 and May 15, 5:00 p.m. – 8:45 p.m. based on what we Saturdays: May 9 and May 16, 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. have right now,” Sundays: May 10 and May 17, 1:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.

For ages 16 and up. Must be able to swim all strokes.

Crawford said. HowBy Sandi Kemp HBTSnews.com

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C o n t e n t

From the General Manager: Soon we will turn the clocks forward and leap into Spring... the perfect time for projects and new beginnings.

The Board voted unanimously at the Special BOD Meeting on February 19th to engage the law firm of Crew & Alex Fambri Crew as general counsel for the association. Mr. Crew will be in attendance prior to the Board Meeting on March 10th to introduce himself to the community. He will be available from 5:30-6:00pm in the café area. He will give a brief overview of the firm and respond to questions that are to be provided in advance. Please submit any attorney questions related to HBTS prior to Friday, March 6th via email to generalmanager@holleybythesea.o rg . Mr. Crew will respond to as many as possible in the time available.

The Florida Department of Environmental Protection has agreed to suspend the 90 day deadline for submission of the“as-built-certification” for the compliance issue regarding the erosion project. The countdown will begin again when a replacement engineering firm has been selected. The Board will take on that task at one of the March meetings. Several Engineering firms have submitted proposals that can be viewed on the community website under the contract tab ( http://fsrsouth.fsrconnect.com ).

Once the Engineering Firm decision has been made the forward progress for a solution within a Consent Order can be achieved.

FDEP will allow us to proceed with some repairs to the fishing pier with permits outside of the compliance issue. Other projects like the parking lot will follow once the County and DEP are satisfied.

Many Thanks to those who have shown support for the Holley by the Sea staff during this challenging time. There has been much discussion regarding whose employees are they and who will be cut under the so-called-transition-plan.

Much remains unknown as the Board has not made decisions, or at least not disclosed them. These are YOUR Team Members and several are your neighbors, so what happens to the community really does matter to them on many levels. The community enjoys the benefit of staff that has corporate knowledge and is truly a part of the community. Can you see this value on paper, probably not, but you feel it in the recreation center even if you don’t realize it. It’s not just that Jackie knows where every pump, valve or breaker is located. It’s that Chris knows your name when you come in the door and the activity you participate in. It’s that Susie can clean like a Tasmanian Devil and still greet every member that crosses her path. It’s that Marsha has been here so long that she’s on the second generation of swimmers. It’s that your kids look forward to Summer Camp and B&A School Care.

It’s that you know Pam is there to support the Social Committee events. I could go on and on about your team and the behind the scenes efforts. I‘ll close by saying I am grateful that so many of you get-it and appreciate their efforts and hard work!

p r o v i d e d

b y

H o l l e y

b y

t h e

Architecture News Why Scoop the Poop?

It doesn’t take much to remember we have pets in our community. In fact, if you don’t watch your step, you are liable to step in one such reminder!

Besides being a nuisance, uncollected dog waste is a serious problem for our association. Next time you’re tempted to leave your dog’s droppings on the lawn, easement or green belts, please remember these facts: *The appearance and quality of the common areas are known to affect home sales-not just whether and for how much they sell, but how quickly. *Unsightly & smelly, animal waste can be hazardous to the health of our children who play in the community and other pets. *Uncollected dog waste spreads disease and attracts rodents who feed on pet waste. *The more residents that complain about dog waste, the more time

the Architectural Department must spend on enforcement rather than serving the other needs of the association.

Holley by the Sea is a Leash Law Area.You must have direct control of your animals at all times!

What does that mean?

Santa Rosa County Ordinance No.2004 Section 2 Definitions: (5)“Direct Control”- The term “direct control”as used in this Ordinance shall mean immediate, continuous physical control of an animal at all times such as means of a fence, leash, cord, or chain of such strength to restrain the same; (8) Direct Control Fines: $30 for 1stViolation, $60 for secondViolation of same within 1 year, $100 for 3rd subsequent violations of the same provision.

Section 12 Animal Control (8) Direct Control. It shall be a violation of this Ordinance for any animal to be off the premises of its owner or person responsible for said animal, without being in direct control of its owner, person responsible there-

for, or other person. Animals not under direct control shall be considered an animal nuisance and may be seized, restrained, impounded, and disposed of as provided by this Ordinance for any unlicensed animal.

If you see a loose animal please call Santa Rosa County Animal Control at (850) 983-4680.They are open from 8-4 M-F and 9-2 on Saturday.

For after hours, call the non-emergency number for the Santa Rosa Sheriff, (850) 983-1100.

Thank you for walking your dogs on a leash. We encourage you to immediately clean up after your pet.

Take along a baggie with you to pick up waste and dispose of properly. By taking a few simple steps to clean up after your pet and keep them under your control, you can contribute not only to the beautification of the community, but also towards the elimination of one of the most irritating nuisances in our community.

Thank you for your cooperation!

Shelby Filek and Denise Puentes, Architectural Staff.

5. Rainy day outside puddle playWhen the sun is away, there is still time for play! Splash around in the mud puddles and see who can make the biggest splash.

For more ideas for outdoor spring fun, visit http://www.sheknows.com/ parenting/articles/815350/6-outdoor-activities-for-active-families-1 There are currently 6 openings in the After School Program. If you are interested in the program for your child(ren), please get in touch with theYouth Department by phone (850939-1693 Ext. 6) or email (youth@holleybythesea.org). License # C01SR0045 Summer is right around the corner, which means another school year is coming to an end!! Summer Camp registration paperwork will be available to Holley by the Sea residents near the end of March or beginning of April.The age range for sum-

mer camp participation is, children entering kindergarten (2015-2016 school year) through 5th grade (completed 2014-2015 school year). Stay tuned for more information!

Fun Factory Hours Mornings Monday-Friday (ages 6 months5 years) Session 1- 8:30am-9:30am Session 2- 9:30am-10:30am

Youth Dept.

Greeting Parents!

Happy Spring! The spring season brings increased daylight and warmer temperatures. It’s the perfect time for outdoor activities that the whole family can enjoy. After being cooped up all winter, it is healthy for the whole family to spend time together outside. Listed below are a few outdoor activities that are great for all ages.

1. Sidewalk Chalk- Make a masterpiece using the pavement as your canvas.

2.Tag and Chase- Burn off some energy with the many different kinds of tag (movie, pizza,TV, etc.)

3. Any kind of“ball”game- No more throwing balls in the house!

Play catch OUTSIDE! 4. Relays and Races- Another great way to get the heart pumping is an old fashioned potato sack relay.

** The evening Fun Factory sessions have been cancelled due to lack of participation. Sorry for any inconvenience this may cause.

PNO Dates March 13th April 10th Wishing you a beautiful spring, Miss. Chelsea & Miss. Katie

Zumba and Pilates class times changing.

See offical Facebook page for periodic updates.

HBTS Beach House Beach House Availability Sunday 9:00 a.m. – 10:00 p.m.

Monday – Thursday 8:00 a.m. – 10:00 p.m.

Friday & Saturday 8:00 a.m. – 12:00 a.m.

Reservations are required Maximum Capacity = 150 Please review complete rules for rental of the Beach House.

Reservations can be made

by MEMBERS ONLY.

Usage Fees • All Day Rental Sunday $185.00 • All Day Rental Mon. – Thurs. $200.00 • All Day Rental Fri. - Sat. $250.00 • 4 Hour Time Slot $60.00 8:00 am – 12:00 p.m.

1:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.

6:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m.

• Friday and Saturday ONLY $100.00 6:00 p.m. – 12:00 a.m.

• Sunday (Open at 9:00am) $45.00 • 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.

Refundable Security Deposit $300.00

SECURITY DEPOSITS AND USAGE FEES ARE DUE IN FULL ON THE DAY THE RESERVATION IS MADE.

For more information call 850-939-1693

Mark your Calendars.

GREAT GAMES 3rd Saturday of each month 5:30 pm – 9:00 pm at the REC Center Café.

Please bring a snack or appetizer to share.

Easter egg hunt

April 4th Watch the official Facebook page for more details.

Eas t ter Egg Hun www.facebook.com/officialholleybythesea

S e a

President’s Corner: January has been a traumatic month for the Association. Our attorney and engineer resigned as well as BOD Alex Crawford member Ryan Miller. The Board has interviewed five attorneys and at a Special Meeting on Feb. 19 we selected attorneys Crew and Crew with a 4-0 vote. Obviously they have a lot to catch up on – we have several critical issues pending as well as a handing over of all Covenant enforcement issues.

On Monday, March 2, there is another special meeting to select an engineering company, an HR Company to perform payroll functions and also to purchase new software to help with the Accounting and A.C.C. functions. I have been keeping the DEP and SRC updated with our progress in obtaining quotes and both agencies have been very forthcoming in answering questions the prospective engineers have had.

We have prospectuses from four companies to provide HR services. Two members are assisting with information gathering to compare the services including the health care plans each offers. Once we select a company we will be able to forge ahead with transitioning employees, seeking new employees including a General Manager.

All companies have been very responsive and offer full and attractive packages of services.

The software package we are investigating is T.O.P.S. One attractive feature is a web site that can be accessed not only by staff with role based security but also owners and visitors – a great feature to show prospective buyers our Community. The rich functionality of the Accounting portion will be provided soon for the A.C.C. portion which currently has the same or better functionality that we have with our software now. The Accounting portion will allow scheduling of reports and functions which will be a big time saver. Training will of course be provided by the manufacturer and we will have on-going support.

There is a lot to do regarding the transition and I would like to say a big‘thank you’to the members who have offered their help and expertise. It is time to come together as a Community, to try to solve problems rather than continue to exacerbate them and to tone down the rhetoric that continues to stoke the fires of dissent. It is unfortunate that the level of personal attacks has not dissipated. I sometimes think Social Media does more harm than good in this respect. At the end of the day we all live in this Community and hopefully we want to show the world we are a great community rather than one that continually fights among itself. No one will agree with all decisions that are made, however the reason we are a civilized society is that we accept the decision of those elected to govern us without turning to anarchy.

I would like to provide an update on Ryan Miller. He and his family will be moving out of the State very soon and I wish them all a better experience in their new situation than they received at the hands of some of the membership in HBTS. Easter is coming, a time of renewal and hope. Can we not take this message and try to come together as a Community. Surely enough damage has been done and it is time to turn the page and finally come together.

Alex Crawford President

8 HBTSNEWS

TRANSACTIONS INCIDENTS March 2015

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Incidents

■ Seller: Whitworth Builders Buyer: Dorothy M. Krause Address: 7201 Siesta St. Date: 01-28-15 Price: $334,500

■ Seller: Beach Adventures Buyer: Dennis J. Brunet Address: 7160 Flintwood St. Date: 01-16-15 Price: $25,000

■ Seller: Arturo V. Valera Buyer: Adams Homes Address: Date: 01-15-15 Price: $39,500

■ Seller: Sara E. Stewart Buyer: Whitworth Builders Address: Date: 01-09-15 Price: $48,500

■ Seller: Mavis A. Jones Buyer: Adams Homes Address: Date: 01-15-15 Price: $38,000

■ Seller: Brian L. Juntunen Buyer: Amy L. Smith Address: 7343 Frankfort St. Date: 01-20-15 Price: $289,000

■ Seller: Angus T. Stone Buyer: Jerry D. Saunders Address: 6539 Federal St. Date: 01-14-15 Price: $209,900

■ Seller: Jamie M. Vancise Buyer: Michael B. McKeen Address: 1945 Seagrape Dr. Date: 01-20-15 Price: $256,000

■ Seller: Cary Manning Buyer: Kyle Hurley Address: 2491 Vale Dr. Date: 01-26-15 Price: $167,900

■ Seller: Joseph J. Prince, Jr. Buyer: Robbins Builders Address: Date: 01-22-15 Price: $48,000

■ Seller: Suzanne L. Bahr Buyer: Adams Homes Address: Date: 01-22-15 Price: $27,000

■ Seller: Birgit Heinen Buyer: Disraeli C. Lee Address: 7651 Sandstone St. Date: 01-21-15 Price: $250,000

■ Seller: Whitworth Builders Buyer: Lee Jones Address: 2637 Nassau Dr. Date: 01-14-15 Price: $349,300

■ Seller: Concepcion A. Santos Buyer: Sonnie Bates Address: 7009 Turnberry Cr. Date: 02-05-15 Price: $65,000

■ Seller: Rock It Homes LLC Buyer: American Estate ant Trust Address: 6900 Westcliff #603 Date: 02-06-15 Price: $14,900

■ Seller: Crismon A. Brayman Buyer: Danny P. Smith Address: 5581 Shadow Shore Pl. Date: 01-20-15 Price: $325,000

HBTS Incident Reports: January 19, 2015 to February 22, 2015 Admiral St Miscellaneous – Report Written 1/22/15 Bellingham St Disturbance – Family 1/24/15 Yorkwood St Miscellaneous – Report Written 1/24/15 Liberty St Disturbance – Family 1/27/15 Eagle Ln Disturbance – Family 1/29/15 PGA Blvd Traffic Offense – DUI 1/31/15

Everglades Dr Criminal Mischief – Misdemeanor 2/11/15 Fern St Vehicle Tags/Decals – Lost 2/12/15 Reef St Violation of County Litter Law 2/13/15 Sunrise Dr Battery 2/13/15 Bayou Dr Missing Person – Adult (No FCIC/NCIC Entry) 2/14/2015 PGA Blvd Death Investigation – Attended/Natural PHYS 2/14/15

Dudley Ct Battery 2/2/15

Bayou Dr Missing Person – Adult – Endangered 2/15/15

Resort St Fraud – Other 2/4/15

Castlewood St Fraud – Computer/Identity 2/18/15

East Bay Blvd Traffic Offense – Other or Arrest 2/5/15

East Bay Blvd Traffic Offense – Other or Arrest 2/18/15

East Bay Blvd Traffic Offense – Other or Arrest 2/6/15

Rexford St Battery 2/19/15

Flintwood St Battery 2/8/15

Summit Dr Disturbance – Family 2/19/15

Houston Cir Battery 2/10/15

Edgewood Dr/Perch St Traffic Offense – Other or Arrest 2/20/15 East Bay Blvd Burglary – Residence (Incl. Motel, Tmp Rental) 2/21/15

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HBTSNEWS 9

MEET YOUR NEIGHBOR

March 2015

Meet you neighbor

Former HBTS resident Wetherell leaves legacy of education, environmental stewardship

Determined visionary

By Ashley Varese editor@navarrepress.com If not for Jack Wetherell’s vision, the Panhandle Butterfly House may never have come to fruition.

That’s what Jeanne Blage said while remembering her friend who recently passed away at his home in Nebraska.

He was 94.

When Blage moved to Navarre in 1995, Wetherell was the president of the Santa Rosa County Master Gardener Association.

“He had camellias galore in his yard,” she said.

She and her husband, Blair, became friends with Wetherell and his wife, Fonda.

“Blair and I just wanted to support them,”Blage said.“We just wanted to support their vision and their dream.”

According to 2002 article written by Bobby Spotswood in the Navarre Press, Wetherell woke up one morning with the idea to build a butterfly house in Navarre.

“When I was a kid, I collected butterflies,” Wetherell said.“Seventy years went by and I got interested again.”

Wetherell said the first butterfly house was in his backyard. He spent three years learning about the species and then approached the Navarre Chamber of Commerce with the idea, selling it as both an educational facility and a tourist attraction.

The chamber liked the idea – as long as Wetherell did it at his own expense.

Most people would have given up at that point. But that was the thing about Wetherell, according to Blage. If someone told him no, it only fueled him more.

“Don’t say that to Jack,”she said.

“He was very determined.”

Over the next six months, the 75-year-old went to 42 different garden clubs asking for

donations to support the butterfly house.

And in 1996, his vision became a reality.

Jack and Fonda founded one of the few butterfly houses in the country that specialized in butterflies and plants found mostly in this region.

Only butterflies native to Florida are allowed in the house – the purpose“is to education people to the idea that these are OUR butterflies,” he said in 2002.

When it first opened, Wetherell said he and the volunteers caught the butterflies in the wild and raised them, but he was quoted in 2002 saying“but that is not physically possible anymore, so we buy from a Florida Supplier.”

Blage said Wetherell was well known throughout the area.

“Not just in our center of the county, he could draw a crowd from all over,” she said.“The Federation of Garden Clubs supported his idea and he was diligent in getting help. He wouldn’t give up.”

Blage said his philosophy was conservation.

“He said you’ve got to save what you have, because once you lose it, it’s gone,”she said.

According to Blage, Wetherell was big on a clean environment before words such as“organic”or“localvore”

became part of the common vernacular.

And he was influential to those around him.

“He wanted to do away with pesticides,” she said.“You don’t feed animals and insects with that if you want to have a clean environment. We jumped on his bandwagon, so to speak.”

When Margaret and Morris Fraser first moved to Navarre in 2000, Margaret saw an article about the Panhandle Butterfly House. When she realized the Wetherells lived down the street from her in Holley by the Sea, she unpacked her suitcases and made a beeline for the house.

“The appeal for me was the butterflies,” she said.“I always enjoyed being outdoors and the fact that I could be in an environment where I can share that information with people.”

Fraser described Wetherell as “unassuming.”

“He didn’t want a lot of credit for what he did,”she said, adding that he was extremely knowledgeable about gardening and the environment.

“He was very serious about what he did,”Fraser said.“He wanted to have the butterfly house for the community so people could become informed about the life cycle and keeping butterflies.”

And it wasn’t just the plight of the butterfly that interested Wetherell.

“He used to walk to our street and at that time, there were lots being cleared for new homes and he was always concerned about clearing the trees,”she said,“knowing it was the habitat of others.”

Shirley Brown, a long-time friend of Wetherell’s wife, Fonda, said she remembered Wetherell hitting up all of the local garden clubs for support.

“When we would have our district meetings, he was always (looking) for donations,”Brown said.

Brown, who didn’t start volunteering at the butterfly house until the a few years ago, said she never doubted Wetherell’s ability to finish the project.

“I’ve been amazed at how many people from foreign countries visit, and how many tourists,”she said.

The National Federation of Garden Clubs awarded Wetherell with a life membership in recognition of his efforts. He was president of the Pensacola Camellia Society, which named him‘Person of theYear’in 1991.

Navarre Press file photos

Sandra Sherman and Jack Wetherell work at the site of the new Panhandle Butterfly House in Navarre.

10 HBTSNEWS LOCAL VEGETAION PROVES TOXIC FOR PETS

March 2015

LIFEGUARD TRAINING at HBTS

Local vegetation proves toxic for pets

By Andrew Dunning andrew@navarrepress.com

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CPR FOR THE PROFESSIONAL RESCUER REVIEW Saturday: April 25m 3:00 pm – 7:00 pm Cost: $40.00, Book not included

Navarre is full of natural beauty, which is part of the reason many people move to the area with their families Rodríquez and pets. The Sago Palm is a part of this natural beauty that many homeowners use to landscape their properties, but Escuriex could prove to be deadly for pets.

“The berries and roots of the Sago Palm are what are most toxic to pets,”said Soundside Animal Hospital veterinarian Dr. Limarie Rodríquez.“Owners have no idea that this plant is toxic and that dogs love to chew on them.”

The toxins from the Sago Palm affect the functions of the dog’s liver and if not diagnosed and treated within 12 hours could cause liver failure, according to Rodríquez.

“If the owner sees the animal eating the plant, then they should induce vomiting and contact their local veterinarian or animal poison control,” Rodríquez said.“We see about two or three cases a year concerning this type of poison-

Photos by Andrew Dunning

Local Sago Palm, which is seen throughout the Navarre community, can be toxic to pets if ingested. ing due to the Sago Palm. Poisoning like this can make the dog hyperbolic, cause seizures and vomiting, and even place the dog into a coma.”

Dr. Henri Escuriex, veterinarian and owner of Soundside Animal Hospital, said that to induce vomiting, the owner can feed the dog one teaspoon of hydrogen peroxide for every 10 pounds the dog weighs.

“We get so many calls from pet owners saying that their pets ate something they shouldn’t,”Escuriex added.

“Chocolate is the biggest concern of most pet owners, but

what makes chocolate so toxic to dogs, theobromine, is mostly found in baker’s and dark chocolate, not the milk chocolate found in most candy bars and cookies.”

During the winter months, most dogs get into household products like antifreeze and medications because they taste sweet to the dogs, or owners put them within the dog’s reach unknowingly, according to Rodríquez.

“Some foods can make one dog sick but not affect another,” Escuriex said.“Grapes have a toxin in them that can affect dogs, but we rarely see

cases like that.There are newer drugs and pesticides that come onto the market each year and with that come new toxicities that can be harmful to these animals.”

“A good rule of thumb is if a pet ingests a food, chemical or product that would also be harmful for human consumption then owners need to contact animal poison control and treat the situation within two hours,”Rodríquez added.

The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals poison control center can be reached at (888) 426-4435.

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Holley by the Sea Recall By now, Holley by the Sea homeowners have received a recall ballet in the mail. Many property owners have already voted but many have not.

Longdin Some reasons given for not voting is the belief that they are not affected by the HBTS Board’s decision, while others believe what they have been told by HBTS Board President Alex Crawford.

Ms. Crawford’s stated position is that HBTS is losing money by having First Service Residential manage HBTS, thus creating a financial crisis that can only be solved by terminating FSR and returning our Association to self-management.

The Association was self-managed from 1998, when the developers turned the Association over to the members, to late 2012 when FSR was hired to manage HBTS. During the period of self-management, a lack of consistency existed due to the high turnover rate of General Managers and Board members. The 2011-12 HBTS Board decided it was time, given the size of HBTS, to bring on a professional management company. This process was deliberate and open; after more than a year of discussions and presentations, the Board elected to hire FSR. The original contract was two years. In 2013, the HBTS Board of Directors met with FSR to review the contract and discuss criteria the Board thought FSR had not met. First Service Residential offered to waive their fee for six months with the assurance they would be given that time to meet the matrix set forth by the Board. In the spring of 2014, the HBTS Board was satisfied with the progress made by FSR and the meeting of the matrix laid out by the HBTS Board; as such, the contract was

extended until 2016.

During the December 2, 2014 HBTS Board of Director’s meeting, Crawford added“Discussion of First Services”during the new items section of the agenda, in violation of Roberts Rules of Order. At the start of the meeting, items can be added to the agenda and then the agenda is approved. After that, no new items can be added to that meeting’s agenda. When the“New Items”part of the meeting began, the“discussion”item was added.

Ms. Crawford spoke about her displeasure with FSR, citing costs as the major factor; homeowner Earl Dean was invited to speak; a vote to terminate FSR was called and voted on with Ms. Crawford, Bill Crouch and Ryan Miller, via phone, voting yes. Board members Rebecca Ward and Jan Frink were unaware that this item was going to be added and voted on. After the meeting, a typed termination letter was handed to FSR. The logical conclusion is that this vote was discussed among the three board members and at least one homeowner, with the outcome decided upon prior to the meeting. Unlike the open process the Board used when hiring FSR, the process of terminating the contract was done behind closed doors, with two Board members being left in the dark and with no opportunity for the membership to provide input.

The actions of three board members have exacerbated issues such as correcting past mistakes with the 40 acres HBTS owns; while these issues were present well before this board, the actions of Ms. Crawford, Mr. Crouch and former-board member Mr. Miller have only made matters worse.

The association lost its nearly eight-year attorney of record and the engineering firm needed to help rectify the problems with the 40 acres, per the FLDEP and County’s requirements.

The notion that there is a crisis that can only be solved by terminating FSR is false. Prior to this board’s actions, there was no crisis, only personal agendas. The 2015 assessment of $347.00 is the lowest it has been in 10 years; our reserves are healthy and earning a better return than they did when we were self- managed.

The message from Ms. Crawford and Mr. Crouch has been that the consequences of wrongfully terminating FSR will be minor. Ms. Crawford has stated that they have a well thought out transition plan and the quality and service we have come expect from the management company will be unaffected.

However, with just five (5) weeks to go until the scheduled turn over date, the following is still unknown: • How many employees we plan to keep • How the employees will be paid • Who will manage the employees and daily operations of the Recreation Center • How many volunteers will be needed to fill in for proposed staff cuts • What kind of computer software we need to replace the existing systems and how it will be installed • How HBTS’s reserves and assets will be managed • Who the General Manager will be There is a lot we do not know.

While a new law firm has been selected, HR firms are still being reviewed; no engineering firm has been selected and there have been no interviews to select a General Manager.

Regarding the employees, Ms. Crawford has stated that they are not allowed to discuss employees.

This is false. The Board of Directors cannot discuss employment or

daily operations of the center with individual employees, but they can meet with FSR and discuss which employees will be kept. This has not happened. The stated plan is to operate on what would appear to be a skeleton staff with volunteers filling in as needed. Operating the Recreation Center on a skeleton crew will result in its quality deteriorating. Services provided, such as the Before- and After-School care are also in question, as no direction has been provided.

Whether you use it or not, our Recreation Center is a valuable asset and adds to all property values in HBTS, and it is a featured asset on local realtors’ sites and listings.

A management company was hired, after more than 14 years of self-management because several previous Boards understood that an organization as large as HBTS which has 4,718 properties and more people living here than in the City of Milton - would benefit from professional management.

They reached the conclusion that the Association, to include the Recreation Center, should be managed by professionals, not amateurs that change every year or two.

If this is the type of organization and leadership we can expect from Ms. Crawford and Mr. Crouch, it does not bode well for HBTS. Board members are to act in the best interest of the association and conduct themselves in accordance with F.S. 720 and run the meetings in accordance with Roberts Rule of Order. Decisions that affect every homeowner should be open and deliberate, not secret and rash. Ms. Crawford, with the full support of Mr. Crouch, has assumed power that is not hers to assume.

Please support the recall!

John Longdin, Former HBTS Board Member, HBTS resident, 936-6916

▼

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