Master Association Annual Meeting: Updates, Achievements, and a Look Ahead
The Master Association Annual Meeting on November 13, 2024, provided a comprehensive update on the progress, finances, and future initiatives for the Kings Point community. Reports were delivered by General Manager Shawna Deiulio, Treasurer Jayne Nardin, and outgoing President Jim Haggerty, culminating in the announcement of election results and the introduction of the new board.
General Manager’s Report
General Manager Shawna Deiulio presented an extensive update on completed projects, ongoing work, and future initiatives aimed at enhancing Kings Point.
Irrigation and Maintenance:
In the first quarter, the team completed 850 irrigation work orders—slightly down from the previous 968—along with 342 monthly inspections, 56 alteration requests, and 24 emergency calls, all answered within 15 minutes. Major repairs included 38 mainline breaks, 40 valve replacements, and 22 lateral line breaks, as well as the drilling of a new recharge well. Thanks to a 10-year warranty on Baseline components, the association saved $25,006 in replacement parts this quarter, following similar savings last quarter.
Final inspections for irrigation were completed for several communities, with others progressing. All audits are complete, and December will bring meetings with the last two hubs to review their numbers.
Cost-Saving Measures & Rebates:
Negotiated pricing with suppliers and manufacturers resulted in savings of over $200,000 across three hubs, complemented by an additional $21,853 in manufacturer rebates. These savings are funding essential community improvements.
Repair and Maintenance
Highlights:
Routine upkeep included tree removals, bench replacements, pothole filling, and sidewalk pressure washing. Significant projects included the replacement of 130 feet of failing drainage pipe on Fox Glove—a major undertaking.
Upcoming Projects:
•Landscape Beautification: Enhancements at the front gate, medians, and other areas are underway, with designs expected to be shared early next year.
•Crosswalk Lighting: A pilot program for illuminated crosswalks aims to improve safety at busy intersections.
•Closed Golf Course Lease: After years of delays, a decision on the lease extension is anticipated early next year.
•2024 Paving and Road Striping: Paving is on hold pending the outcome of our claim against FCC on oil spilled roads. If successfull, this could save us hundreds of thousands of dollars from this year’s budget.
•Private Website for Boards: A secure platform for board members to access documents will launch in January.
•Cell Tower Installation: A signed lease for a cell tower may bring up to $5,000 monthly in revenue.
•Creek Maintenance:
and quickly became active members of the community. Chris began his service in 2010 when he volunteered to join the Portsmith Board, where he held roles as secretary, vice president, and president, leading the association for eight of his ten years on the board. His leadership extended beyond Portsmith, as he also served as Kings Point’s liaison to the Sun City Center Holiday Parade for five years and has been involved with several Kings Point clubs and committees, including the KP Garden Club, Vehicle Storage Club, and the Woodchoppers Club.
December 2024
and prioritizing residents’ needs.
Jim introduced a special initiative: bringing irrigation services in-house. This plan proposes hiring and training an in-house team to manage irrigation, reducing reliance on contractors while saving money and increasing control over operations.
For more details about this project, see page 2.
Election Results and New Board Leadership
Chris and his wife,
to Kings Point in November 2009
Since being elected to the Master Association Board in 2020, Chris has worked tirelessly to address
Engineering assessments and agency meetings are planned for January to develop a cleanup strategy.
•Front Gate Expansion: Plans for an additional visitor lane are being revisited with traffic counts scheduled for peak season.
Treasurer’s Report: 2024 Budget Highlights
Treasurer Jayne Nardin expressed gratitude to the Finance Committee for their hard work during the budgeting process. Using a line-by-line comparison with last year’s budget, she highlighted a significant achievement: zero percent increase in assessments for the upcoming year.
This accomplishment reflects the Master Association’s commitment to financial responsibility, ensuring residents benefit from ongoing services and improvements without increased costs.
President’s Report: A Farewell and a New Innovation Outgoing President Jim Haggerty delivered his final report, thanking the voting members for their trust and the opportunity to serve over the past four years. He also acknowledged General Manager Shawna Deiulio and her team for their dedication to ensuring the board’s success
the complexity of Kings Point’s infrastructure. Recognizing the critical role of irrigation, drainage, roads, and ponds, he has been instrumental in supporting key Master initiatives He has also been a champion for transparency and open communication, moving workshops to accessible locations, updating the Master Association website regularly, and ensuring timely responses to resident inquiries.
One of Chris’s signature achievements is the establishment of the Presidents Round Table, a forum where board members and association presidents can engage in open discussions in a casual and comfortable setting. This initiative has been well-received and
The highlight of the Master Association Annual Meeting was the announcement of election results. Secretary Jim Allen shared that three positions on the Master Board were up for election this year. With only two candidates applying, both were welcomed to the board without a formal vote.
Jim warmly welcomed George Cordelli from Somerset, returning for another term on the board, and Sandy Collins from Oakley Green, joining as a new member.
During the organizational meeting, the board elected its new leadership:
•President: Chris Robinson
•Vice President: Rodney Green
•Secretary/Treasurer: Jim Allen
•Directors: George Cordelli, Ray Vaccaro, and Sandy Collins
A call for candidates to fill the remaining vacant seat will be announced soon. Residents with experience in infrastructure who are passionate about serving the community are encouraged to apply.
Overall, the Master Association Annual Meeting reflected a strong focus on transparency, financial prudence, and a commitment to enhancing the quality of life for all Kings Point residents. The meeting concluded with optimism for the year ahead and a renewed commitment to serving the needs of the community.
continues to foster collaboration and understanding among Kings Point leaders.
Chris campaigned last year on a commitment to maintain a zero percent budget increase, and he has helped fulfill that promise for 2024. His focus remains on fiscal responsibility while prioritizing improvements that enhance the quality of life for residents.
As President, Chris is committed to continuing the progress made in recent years and to working toward even greater achievements for the Kings Point community. His dedication, transparency, and collaborative approach ensure that Kings Point remains a thriving and wellmanaged community.
Welcome Chris Robinson, New Master Association President
Kings Point residents are excited to welcome Chris Robinson as the new President of the Master Association. With a long history of community service and a deep commitment to the betterment of Kings Point, Chris brings both experience and a clear vision for the future.
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During the Master Association Annual Meeting, outgoing President Jim Haggerty introduced an innovative plan to transition Kings Point’s irrigation system management from a contractor-based model to an in-house team. This move aims to increase efficiency, enhance service quality, and save the community significant costs over time.
Why the Change?
While Kings Point has enjoyed a mostly positive relationship with ITS, the current irrigation contractor, the decision to explore an in-house model stems from a commitment to act in the community’s financial best interest. “Paying more for fewer services simply doesn’t align with our responsibility to make financially sound decisions,” Jim explained.
Additionally, the Master Association has longstanding relationships with the Irrigation Association and the Florida Irrigation Society, providing valuable resources and insights that further support this initiative.
Building the Team
The proposed in-house irrigation team will consist of nine technicians and one manager, hired through the community’s management company, Artemis. To attract and retain skilled employees, the Master Association plans to offer competitive wages, vacation and sick days, health insurance, a 401(k) program, and other benefits.
This investment in personnel is
With over 36 years of experience in infrastructure development, George Cordelli brings unparalleled expertise to the Master Association Board. As Engineer in Charge with the New York State Department of Transportation, he managed projects up to $68 million, ensuring quality construction, compliance with regulations, and efficient dispute resolution.
George also served as a Resident Engineer, addressing challenges similar to those at Kings Point, such as stormwater management, road maintenance, and drainage systems.
In the past two years as a member of the Master Board, George has leveraged his engineering background to deliver significant cost savings and improvements. He played a pivotal role in securing a $34,000 credit and a 10-year warranty on road paving completed in 2022, a reflection of his dedication to cost-effective and sustainable
Master Association Proposes Transition to In-House Irrigation Team
expected to create a stable and committed workforce with a strong connection to the community, ensuring consistency and quality in irrigation services. Operational Benefits Transitioning to an in-house model will provide several advantages:
Direct Oversight and Accountability: Having employees on staff allows the Master Association to closely monitor performance and ensure that irrigation standards are met consistently.
Flexibility and Responsiveness:
The in-house team will have the ability to set priorities, authorize overtime, and carry out repairs and maintenance according to community needs.
Proactive Maintenance: The team will replace outdated sensors, install new moisture and rain sensors, and adopt a proactive approach to repairs and upgrades, saving time and resources.
Currently, under ITS, the community often falls short of the allocated 410 hours per week, resulting in missed opportunities for additional projects and improvements.
Financial Savings
A key driver of this transition is the potential cost savings.
solutions. He has also been instrumental in enhancing community engagement, fostering transparent decisionmaking processes, and spearheading projects like our paving initiatives.
George’s vision for Kings Point includes developing a long-term, comprehensive infrastructure plan to address pressing needs while minimizing costs and maximizing the value of every dollar spent. He is looking forward to continuing his service for the betterment of our community.
Continuing with ITS under their proposed contract comes with significant cost increases. For 2025, ITS proposed a 9% increase over this year’s rates, followed by a 3% annual increase in subsequent years. Over three years, this would bring the total cost of ITS services to over $4.95 million.
In comparison, the estimated cost of the proposed in-house irrigation team is $2.92 million over the same period, even with a projected 5% annual increase in salaries and expenses to account for inflation and adjustments. This represents a potential savings of more than $2 million in just three years.
While the in-house cost projections include some uncertainties and may involve unforeseen expenses, the financial advantage remains clear. This move positions the community to gain greater value for its investment while reducing long-term expenses.
Preparing for the Transition
The transition plan is already underway, with Artemis actively searching for a qualified irrigation manager and technician positions set to be posted in January. Policies and procedures are being developed, and the manager will play a key role in training the team.
The target date for assuming full irrigation responsibilities is April 1, 2025.
Contingency Measures
Recognizing potential challenges, the Master Association has built in safeguards to ensure a smooth transition:
- $75,000 Budget for Off-Site Repairs: To cover major repairs or additional workload if needed.
- $200,000 Financial Buffer: To address unforseen expenses within the first year.
- Temporary Staffing: A partnership with a temp agency will allow for quick adjustments if staffing issues arise.
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By bringing irrigation services in-house, the community gains enhanced control, operational flexibility, and significant cost savings. This move ensures a proactive approach to maintaining Kings Point’s irrigation infrastructure while providing reliable service tailored to the community’s needs.
Jim concluded by emphasizing the importance of patience during the initial transition: “We know there will be challenges as we start this new venture, but we are confident this move will benefit the community in the long term.”
The Master Association looks forward to the successful implementation of the in-house irrigation team, with significant progress already underway.
Since moving to Kings Point from Kansas City, MO, in 2016, Sandy Collins has been an active and dedicated member of the Oakley Green Association. She began her volunteer journey as Communication Chair, where she launched and continues to manage the association’s website. Sandy also serves as the Landscape POC, Liaison for the Rules and Regulations Committee, and Secretary/ Treasurer of the Board of Directors, demonstrating her commitment to fostering a strong and well-organized community.
Professionally, Sandy has a rich and diverse background. As a licensed nursing home administrator, she managed long-term care facilities and later founded a successful consulting company, helping care communities navigate the complexities of operations and compliance. She has also owned and operated a child care center, pest control company, and antique gift shop, showcasing her entrepreneurial spirit and leadership skills.
Sandy is passionate about helping residents understand the budget, resolving disputes with a neighborly approach, and fostering collaboration among board members. She is eager to bring a positive, wellrounded voice to the Master Association and is committed to listening to the needs of the community while working toward its continued success.
2024
We are excited to announce the 4th Annual Celebration of the Holidays will be held on December 9th in the North Clubhouse! There will be tasty entrées and desserts along with a collection of adult beverages. Numerous clubs will be stationed throughout the North Clubhouse to allow for some last-minute shopping, photos with Santa will be available, and thousands of dollars in raffle prizes will be won by the residents of Kings Point! (Prizes to include $1,000.00 Amazon Gift Card, Gaspirilla Inn Weekend Getaway, Tablets, $1,500 set of Car Tires with Car care kit, Smart watches, & various other gift cards and prizes!). We look forward to enjoying all the festivities!
Q: What is the Celebration of the Holidays, and what will the event raise funds for?
A: The Celebration of the Holidays will be held Monday, December 9th from 4:15pm8:30pm throughout the KPCH and in the Veterans Theatre. This holiday celebration is sure to be the social event of the season. Festivities will include a collection of tasty entrée samples, desserts, adult beverages, shopping with local clubs and vendors, raffles and Santa will be here too! Raffle prizes are being donated by KP vendors and local businesses. All proceeds will benefit A kids place. For more information, please click here: https:// akidsplacetb.org/
Q: How do I attend the Celebration of the Holidays on Monday, December 9th?
A: If you are interested in participating in the raffle,
shopping with our clubs, bidding on trees or wreaths, or even just walking around to take part in the Holiday Spirit, feel free to come to the Kings Point Main Clubhouse anytime between 4:15 pm-8:30pm. The only fees involved are if you choose to participate in the raffle or if you would like to purchase admission to the dining event.
Dining admission and raffle tickets can be purchased with Card, Cash, or Checks made payable to A kids place.
All Food and Beverage tickets can be purchased with Card, Cash, or Checks made payable to Vesta.
Dining Admission Wristbands are $5.00 and 100% of the proceeds will go toward A kids place. Please note we will have limited seating for both time slots, 4:15pm-6:15pm and 6:30pm8:30pm, and these wristbands will NOT be sold for the tasting the night of the event.
Raffle tickets can be purchased in $1.00 increments.
Food tickets will be sold for $3 each ticket.
1 Food ticket will be redeemable for 1 menu item.
Beverage tickets will be sold for $5.00 for each ticket. 1 Beverage ticket will be redeemable for 1 adult beverage or 2 sodas.
All food and raffle tickets can be purchased in advance and the night of the event.
www.kpmaster.com/holidays
Ask the Pet Vet
Yosha, DVM, PhD
Q. My dog or cat had diarrhea during the recent storms. What can I do for them?
A. Stress is a condition that allows an animal (or human) to respond to potentially dangerous situations (flight or fight) when adrenalin increases blood flow to the brain, heart, lungs and muscles --while also reducing flow to gut, hair and other organs that are not used to respond to danger. They can then develop diarrhea commonly, even with blood in it, also called stress diarrhea or colitis.
It is common to see this in pets during stressful times such as storms, separation anxiety, boarding, a death in the family, changes in schedules or environment etc., so it is also common to see this during the holiday season.
The vet will still want to do an exam to rule out other medical causes, toxicity or parasites, but recent activity or circumstance is important figuring out the cause. VOMITING is a bad sign and should not be ignored. However, there are some things you can do to reduce stress diarrhea.
1. Maintain hydration (water or Pedialyte or a veterinary electrolyte solution)
2. Do not give ANY treats and use bland food
3. Use probiotics, Propectalin (available OTC—over the counter without a prescription)
4. ADDRESS THE STRESS—start with Feliway or Thunderease (Adaptil) sprays for the home
You’ve probably seen commercials for services that promise to monitor your property records for a fee, but did you know that Hillsborough County offers this protection for free? Property and mortgage fraud is the fastest-growing whitecollar crime in the United States, according to the FBI. Scammers file fake deeds to make it appear as if they own homes that aren’t theirs, then trick people into paying to rent or buy those properties.
The Property Fraud Alert service is a free tool provided by the Clerk of Court to help protect your property from such fraud. It monitors documents recorded in the county’s Official Records and alerts you to any activity under your name or your business name.
By signing up for this free service, you’ll receive notifications via email or phone whenever
a document is recorded. If you notice any unauthorized activity, this early warning gives you critical time to take action and stop criminals before they succeed.
Don’t pay for protection when you can get it for free—sign up today!
Sign up quick and easy:
1. Go online or call (800) 7283858.
2. Click “Continue” to start the registration process.
3.Choose to monitor a person’s name or a business name.
4.Enter the name you want to monitor.
5.Provide an email address or telephone number for alerts. Take advantage of this free service today and gain peace of mind knowing your property is protected!
5. Some pets also respond to Thundershirt or a comfort wrap, and soft background music or noise
6. Seek veterinary care when stronger prescription stress relievers (gabapentin, trazodone, or other prescription products) are needed. PLAN AHEAD because vet visits during the holidays or storms might not be available.
Holiday season has many additional risks, but one of the most common is consuming foods or medications that are toxic or eating objects (including bones or strings, ornaments) that become an obstruction— which could result in surgery or even death. One Tylenol can kill a cat and xylitol (sweetener), chocolate and Christmas tree water are also toxins. Christmas trees, wreaths, poinsettias, ornaments and decorations can also present hazards to pets.
There are many references for these –and keeping a list on your phone, computer or on paper can be helpful to refer to as needed. www.aaha.org/resources/ household-pet-toxins/ https://www.fda.gov/ consumers/consumer-updates/ keep-your-dogs-and-cats-safeholiday-hazards
When in doubt or if your pet is not responding or is getting worse, then seek veterinary care. Identifying the correct cause or diagnosis is critical for successful recovery.
COA December Meeting
The December Business Meeting of the COA will be held on Tuesday, December 3 at 2:00 PM in the Main Clubhouse Banquet Room. Join us for some Special Holiday Sweets!
If you haven’t signed up for the Kings Point COA Holiday Light Contest (Dec. 20) and COA Golf Cart Parade (Dec. 21) now’s the time! Go to kpmaster.com/holidays to join in
Everyone is asking about Shredding Day – this year it is scheduled for April 29, 2025 from 9:00 AM – Noon.
We are also getting questions about the 2025 Small Calendars – many people still like using them in addition to their cell phones. Yes we have ordered them – we will let you know as soon as they come in.
COA Membership Directory: we are still accepting listings for the upcoming Directory if you are a Member of the COA. If your Association did not include your
dues in their budget, you can come in, pay your dues and sign up as a Member.
It’s Budget Time! Association Boards can elect to add the COA fee in the draft budget package they just received. The fee is $5.00 for the entire year ($0.42 per Unit per month). Join the COA and take advantage of the many services available such as shredding, notary service, loan of walkers, canes & wheelchairs. Save a trip to the post office, avoid the traffic, and purchase your stamps at the COA Office behind the North Clubhouse.
Stop by the COA Office at 1902 Clubhouse Drive Suite B – we are open Monday – Friday from 9:00AM – Noon. Meet the COA Volunteers and learn about all the services we offer Kings Point Resident Members. See you there…
Sandra
Kings Point Festival of Trees
This December, we are proud to recognize Les Raba as Kings Point’s Volunteer of the Month. Les’s extraordinary contributions to our community are rooted in a lifetime of resilience, dedication, and service.
A Bronze Star Vet and self-made man, Les fled his homeland of Budapest, Hungary, at just 15 years old during the 1956 Hungarian Communist Revolution. After escaping to Austria, he legally immigrated to the US a year later, where he supported himself by working while attending night school.
During Kings Point’s development, Les worked for WCI, contributing significantly to the community’s infrastructure. As part of WCI he was involved in the planning and construction of new associations. His professional expertise continues to benefit Kings Point today, particularly through his instrumental role in helping the Master Association GIS map the community’s stormwater system, showing where all pipes flow and discharge.
Les has also been an active leader in the Manchester-II, serving six years on its board and managing landscaping, irrigation, and buildings. Additionally, he served for six years as a Master Association Director, focusing on infrastructure, roads, and irrigation.
Beyond his technical contributions, Les’s creativity and community spirit shine through in the holiday woodwork displays he crafts for the gazebo and other decorations. Twice a winner of the Sun City Center golf cart parade for his decorated cart, Les brings joy and festivity to our community.
Les’ dedication, expertise, and passion make Les a truly deserving Volunteer of the Month. Thank you, Les, for your invaluable service and for making Kings Point a better place for all!
Congratulations Les!!!
Part of the Celebration of the Holidays is The Festival of Trees. The Trees and Wreaths that are being collected at this time will be on display at the Celebration of the Holidays event on December 9th in the North Clubhouse giving you the opportunity to bid on a special themed trees, wreaths, menorahs, or dreidels.
All proceeds from the Festival of Trees will benefit A kids place,
Kings Point Mixed Chorus Concert
Get your tickets for the Kings Point Mixed Chorus Holiday Concert, Joy to The World, for the low, low price of $13!! Tickets are now available at the Kings Point Box Office, North Club. The performance will be in the Veterans Theater, Kings Point North Clubhouse on Friday, December 13, 5PM.
Seating is cabaret style, so enjoy a lively holiday evening with friends, along with snacks and beverages of your choice. Theater style bleacher seating is also available. Our Director, Faye Nepon has put together a brilliant combination of holiday pieces, ensembles, and audience singalong favorites. This 55+ mixed chorus includes performers from Kings Point, Sun City Center, Wimauma, and Apollo Beach.
If you are arriving from outside Kings Point, enter through the Visitors Gate and inform the guard that you are here to buy tickets or attend the concert.
a foster home in Brandon that focuses on keeping siblings together.
If you would like to participate by donating a Tree, Wreath, Menorah, or Dreidel, please email Sue Martucci, Coordinator - suemartucci@gmail.com. Your donation of a new or nearly new, themed, decorated, artificial tree (mini to 6’) or wreath would be appreciated.
Kings Point Michigan Club Dances
Michigan Club Christmas in Florida Dance will be held December 7th. Contact miclupkp@gmail.com for tickets.
On Saturday, January 18th at Veterans Hall the Michigan Club will welcome back all of our outof-town members who return to spend their winters in sunny Florida! Entertainment will be one of our favorite bands, SoulRCoaster. Doors will open 5:30 - Music 6-9. The Club will be serving 1/2 a Publix sub and cookies -- price is $5 for members and $12 for nonmembers.
Ticket sales will take place on Tuesdays, January 6th and 13th from 9-noon in the NC Lobby. BYOE - ice and water provided but no glasses.
The recipient of the Care/Share Raffle will be Human Trafficking. Tickets are 8 for $5 -- please be generous.
Is your medicine cabinet full of expired drugs or medications you no longer use? Your medicine is for you. What’s safe for you might be harmful for someone else. Keeping unused, expired and unwanted prescriptions and medications in your home can have tragic consequences. The best way to dispose of your expired, unwanted, or unused medicines is through a drug take back program. One of the most successful drug take back programs is Operation Medicine Cabinet, right here in Sun City Center. Another reason for the collection is the improper disposal of drugs when folks flush them down the toilet or throw them in the trash. This contaminates our public water supply and county landfills.
On Friday, December 6, 2024, from 8 a.m. until noon, current Sun City Center Community Resource Deputy Jeff Merry will be collecting any and all unused and expired medications. This includes prescription medication, over the counter medication, pet medication, liquid medication, and sharps. Just drive to
Community Hall, located at 1910 S. Pebble Beach Blvd, and hand them your medication. It is not even necessary to get out of the vehicle. Put those drugs and drug containers in a grocery bag and hand them over. Everything is accepted as is, you don’t need to remove any labels, and we don’t ask questions. It is completely confidential.
Once drugs are taken into custody, they’re boxed and officially sealed, labeled and transported to the HCSO District 2 office. They’re securely stored until they can be taken for incineration in the same manner as illegal drugs and confiscated guns. This program has kept the community safer from medication errors and actually saved lives, it has also kept drugs out of the hands of contractors, service providers and relatives who either end up personally misusing them or illegally selling them on the street. The event is open to anyone and conducted twice a year, April and December. For more information, call Deputy Merry at 813-242-5525.
Master Association Board Member Wanted!
The Master Association is seeking to fill a vacancy on the board. This is a great opportunity to contribute to the Kings Point community! If you have experience in accounting or infrastructure and are passionate about volunteering, this may be the perfect fit for you.
If interested, please email master@kpmaster.com to request an application. The board will review resumes and conduct interviews in the near future. Don’t miss this chance to make a difference!
Master Deputy Jeffery E. Merry Jr.
Operation Medicine Cabinet
