www.OceanPinesToday.com
June - Early July 2015
Vol. 11, No. 3
443-359-7527
www.issuu.com/oceanpinesprogress Complaints abound about Yacht Club at Town Hall meeting
THE OCEAN PINES JOURNAL OF NEWS & COMMENTARY COVER STORY
Clarke, Stevens question Renaud’s neutrality in Ocean Pines election Board secretary denies quid pro quo to obtain OPA presidency By TOM STAUSS Publisher t’s still very early in the annual Ocean Pines election season, but already rumors are circulating about which directors are supporting which candidates in this summer’s Board of Directors’ contest. This year, the maneuvering seems to be causing some hard feelings among the directors and is dividing erstwhile allies. It has even generated a contention from the OPA President Dave Stevens and Vice-president Martin D. Clarke that OPA secretary Pat Renaud is supporting two of three female candidates running for the board this summer and, if one or both are successful, they will vote to elect him president in September. Renaud is disputing both contentions. In last summer’s election, Renaud and Stevens were the top two vote-getters, with the active support and endorsement of STOP (Stop Taxing Ocean Pines), an advocacy group founded years ago by Martin D. Clarke, an OPA director who is retiring this year. The group supports curbs on OPA spending and assessments and strong oversight of General Manager Bob Thompson. Stevens was elected president with the support of Renaud and a new majority bloc of directors that included Clarke and Jack Collins, the OPA treasurer. Another candidate last summer, Slobodan Trendic, dropped out of the race to endorse Stevens and Renaud, with the understanding that STOP, Stevens
Left to right: Pat Renaud Dave Stevens Marty Clarke Slobodan Trendic
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and Renaud would support his election bid this summer. The support for Trendic of STOP and Stevens seems assured. Stevens told the Progress that he will not issue a public endorsement and will limit himself to behind-the-scenes assistance for candidates he favors. What will not happen, however, is any kind of meaningful support for Trendic’s candidacy by Renaud, and that has led Stevens and Clarke to conclude that Renaud has reneged on a promise made to Trendic last summer and instead is, or soon will be, actively supporting two of the three female candidates running for the board, most likely Cheryl Jacobs and Carol Ludwig. Stevens and Clarke contend they have it on good authority that Renaud recently hosted in his home all three female candidates, Jacobs, Ludwig and former director Teri Mohr. Also attending were OPA Directors Tom Terry and Bill Cordwell, whom Renaud invited, because they, like him, “wanted to give the candidates advice on how to run a campaign” for the Ocean
To Page 37
Seven candidates competing for two seats on OPA board ~ Page 31
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Pines board. Renaud said he’s been working closely with Terry on some issues – he cited the OPA budget for 2015-16 – so it was only natural that he would invite him to attend a meeting with candidates who had reached out. Stevens made it clear he’s not inclined to accept any of Renaud’s explanations. “I believe it will prove out that if any of these candidates (who attended the meeting with Renaud) get elected, they will make Pat president in the fall,” Stevens told the Progress. “And everyone will know what happened.” Taking a page from STOP’s playbook from last summer, one of the three female candidates, most likely Mohr, probably will be persuaded to drop out to help out the other two at some point during the campaign, Stevens said. Clarke slammed Renaud for hosting three candidates and two of his fellow directors in his home while maintaining a pretense of neutrality. “In spite of the fact that Pat Renaud
After weeks of negotiations that iroAnyone expecting relentless cheerleading for the year-old Ocean Pines Yacht Club at General Manager Bob Thompson’s June 3 town hall meeting must have been sorely disappointed. To say that Thompson’s typical emphasis on the positive was drowned out by complaints understates the obvious. Nearly half of the two-hour long town hall meeting hosted by the Ocean Pines Association’s general manager was devoted to a question and answer session about the status of theYacht Club. ~ Page 6
Thompson back in as lead negotiator with Sandpiper
Ocean Pines Association director Bill Cordwell, unhappy with the apparent lack of movement in discussions between the OPA and Sandpiper Energy for a new natural gas franchise agreement, recently suggested that General Manager Bob Thompson be given the task of checking out whether negotiations that could lead to an agreement can be jump-started. ~ Page 9
Boaters oppose draft use policy for Community Hall
A least one major Ocean Pines community group – the 400-member (give or take) Ocean Pines Boat Club – is resisting a proposed new Community Center use policy unveiled during a special meeting May 20 by General Manager Bob Thompson and a group of Ocean Pines residents advising him. Walt Lischak, fleet captain of the boat club, called the proposed use policy “unworkable” for his organization. He said club members might have to donate between “1,200 and 2,000 hours of community service annually” to meet the policy requirementgs. ~ Page 28
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OPA to self-manage tennis complex
contract was not signed at the point when the budget was approved by the board of directors. Instead of simply renewing the management contract, he said the OPA looked at strategies to improve tennis operations. The Racquet Advisory Committee made a strong recommendation not to renew the contract this year. “They requested that we try self-management,” he said. Should the self-management option not work out, the OPA can always return to signing a third party contract for management of the racquet facilities, Thompson said.
OPA president, board make appointments
Dave Stevens, president of the Ocean Pines Association, during a May 28 meeting appointed several members to advisory committees with the unanimous concurrence of other board members. Stevens appointed Cheryll Bissell to a second term on the Elections Committee. He appointed Frank Daly to the Comprehensive Plan Committee and Thomas Beery to the Budget and Fi-
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ased on a recommendation from the Racquet Sports Advisory Committee, the Ocean Pines Association has decided to self-manage the racquet sports complex off Manklin Creek Road in South Ocean Pines this summer. Bob Thompson said in his monthly general manager’s report to the board of directors on May 28 that the OPA entered this season without renewing its tennis contract with Marshall and Associates. “The Racquet Committee requested we not renew the contract, and our team felt it was possible to move managing the racquet center internally” to the Department of Parks and Recreation. Thompson said staff is working with some local tennis professionals to provide lessons and, with the committee as the association looks to hire the appropriate staff, to run the facility. Director Marty Clarke said he thought the annual OPA operating budget for tennis was struck with funding included for the contract with Marshall and Associates. “We allocate an amount of money each year for tennis management,” Thompson responded, adding that the
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From Page 3 nance Committee, both for first terms.
CPI action tabled against owner
Despite claims from one member of the Board of Directors that her friend would never knowingly violate the Ocean Pines Association’s governing documents, another director said it looks like that is exactly what happened. According to the Compliance, Permits and Inspections office, two violations exist on the property at 78 Quarterstaff Place, one for an unapproved shed and anther for a box trailer parked on the site. Director Sharyn O’Hare didn’t cite
the owner well and that she had no idea there were violations on the property. “I know this person personally, and I tend to believe her,” O’Hare said. She said the owner claims to have received no notice from the association that there were any problems. O’Hare said she called the property owner and had no problem reaching her. “Why didn’t somebody pick up the phone and call her?” she asked. O’Hare said the owner has promised to work aggressively to remedy these violations. “She was just mortified when she found out this was going on. Very upset,” O’Hare said. She even hinted that staff didn’t have the correct address for the property to send notices.
OCEAN PINES O’Hare said the owner agreed to remove the box trailer from the property by the forthcoming Monday and that she was contacting the Architectural Review Committee to determine what needed to be done to bring the shed into compliance. O’Hare asked the board to table any further action, such as sending it to the OPA attorney, for one month in order to give the property owner time to address the violations. Director Tom Terry said he would support O’Hare’s motion but added that there is evidence that the property owner knew about at least one of the violations. He said at one point the owner made application to the Architectural Review Committee to keep the box trailer on the property, but that application
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was denied. “So how can she state that she knew nothing,” Terry said. The board supported the motion to hold off on action for one month and have CPI follow up to ensure that the owner is taking the appropriate steps to address the violations.
Pines affected by trash service glitches
General Manager Bob Thompson talked trash during his June 3 Town Hall meeting on issues of import in the Ocean Pines Association. He acknowledged that there have been some glitches in the collection system since Republic Services was awarded an exclusive three-year franchise to operate within the confines of Ocean Pines. “We’ve had some issues,” Thompson said, but added that he believes they have all now been worked out, and the company is back on schedule. A confluence of events led to the contractor not being able to collect refuse and recycling in certain sections of Ocean Pines at the scheduled times over the last few weeks. He said at the same time the OPA began to experience its seasonal influx of residents and visitors over Memorial Day weekend, the trash contractor had a truck recalled and taken out of service. That led to missed pick-ups, particularly in the Innerlinks which was skipped several times. Since then the contractor has purchased a new truck and added another recycling truck to its routes in Ocean Pines. “They seem to have corrected the issue or issues.” Thompson said one benefit of working with Republic Services is that the company doesn’t alter its collection schedule for holidays. As long as a holiday doesn’t fall on a weekend, the crews will work on that day. That helped them catch up with the collection in Ocean Pines; crews that would typically have picked up in other locations, which were closed for the holiday, actually came to Ocean Pines on Memorial Day instead.
McMullen golf tourney scheduled for Aug. 7
The Fourth Annual Mary McMullen Memorial Golf Tourney is scheduled for on Aug. 7 at the Ocean Pines golf course. Mary McMullen (1948-2012) was a Special Education Instructor at Severna Park High School and Ruth Eason School. She was a founder of the Ocean Pines Youth Program, an administrator at the Maryland School for the Deaf, and President of the Old Mill Booster’s Club. Proceeds from the tournament will be donated to the Ocean Pines Recreation Department, Ruth Eason School, Severna Park High School Special Education Department, and the Diakonia Homeless Shelter. Proceeds will also be used to sponsor a student at the Good Samaritans School in Haiti. A scholarship in her name has also been established at Severna Park High School. The tourney sponsors are inviting business owners to participate in the event as golfers and tee sign sponsors.
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4 Ocean Pines PROGRESS June - Early July 2015 the owner by name but said she knows OCEAN PINES BRIEFS
OCEAN PINES OCEAN PINES BRIEFS From Page 4 Merchandise and gift certificates for a silent auction are also needed. Those interested in golfing should call Don Mac at 443-388-2941. Those interested in making a charitable donation or donating an item for the silent auction should contact Susan at 410-925-0472 or Erin at 443-465-8687. Those interested in sponsoring a hole should Tim McMullen at 443-827-2091. The Mary Mac Foundation is a “not for profit” organization. The Maryland State non-profit customer ID # is 002924225. The Federal Tax ID # is 462720845. Last year, through participation in the Baltimore Running Festival and the Mary Mac Golf Tournament, over $30,000 was raised for PHA and various charitable organizations. Donations are welcome and go directly to the Mary Mac Foundation.
Choptank to introduce advanced metering
June - Early July 2015Ocean Pines PROGRESS non-residents. Only those swimming pay a fee. Ocean Pines’ popular summer music series, Thursday Concerts in the Park, will begin on Thursday, June 18, from 7-9 p.m. A variety of free family-friendly musical performances will be held weekly through Aug. 27 at White Horse Park. Family games, food and more will be featured. OceanPines.org lists scheduled performers. These events are open to the public.
Library announces featured artists
Friends of the Ocean Pines Library
The Ocean Pines Yacht Club marina has been awarded a Clean Marina certification by the Maryland Department of Natural Resources. This certification is presented to Maryland Marina facilities that demonstrate a high level of clean environmental achievement through knowledge, practice, and active participation of the marina’s staff.
Popular summer events return to Ocean Pines
Summer is heating up in Ocean Pines as several popular events offered by the Recreation and Parks Department return for the season. Monday Movies in the Park returns for its second season beginning Monday, June 15, at 8 p.m. in White Horse Park. A different free family-friendly movie will be shown every Monday through Aug. 31. Concessions will be for sale. OceanPines.org lists scheduled movies. The Yacht Club Pool will open up for families Wednesday evenings June 17Sept. 2 from 6-8 p.m. Games, contests and music will be part of the fun. Food and beverages will be for sale poolside. The cost is $3 for swim members, $5 for Ocean Pines residents and $7 for
areas of the library through July. She is a former board member of the Worcester Arts Council. She exhibits regularly as a member of the Art League of Ocean City Center for Arts and as a member at the Worcester County Arts Council. Photographer John McManus will display his work in the two computer room in July. He has photographing the rivers, bays harbors, and wildlife of Pennsylvania and Ocean City for nearly three decades. In recent years, with the advances in digital technology, he has developed a technique which blends the richness of color photography with the soft beauty of oils and water colors.
Get to know your Board candidate, Slobodan Trendic TRUTH, TRUST, DOING IT RIGHT, DOING IT NOW S L O B O D A N
Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI) by Choptank Electric Cooperative is coming to Ocean Pines shortly. The am AGAINST: utility Icompany will be hosting an open house on Thursday, June Projects 18, to inform ency Nonessential members about the advantages it offers. The AMI Open House will be held at the Ocean Pines Community Center, Assateague Meeting Room, from 2 to 6 p.m. For additional information, fact sheets, videos, and information about AMI deployment, check out the AMI information at www.choptankelectric.coop or visit Choptank’s Facebook, Twitter, or YouTube pages.
Yacht Club marina certified ‘clean’
recently announced art exhibits for June and July at the library. Mary Jane Hasting, who paints in acrylics, has her work on display in the two computer rooms to the right of the common areas upon entering the library for the month of June.Her exhibitions have been seen at galleries and libraries in Salisbury, Berlin, and Ocean City, where she has won many prizes. She was also given an award by the National Society of the Daughters of the American Revolution for her painting, “Hand Sewing the American Flag.” Marcy Snyder, a watercolor artist, has her work featured in the main common
Someone you can trust Let’s make a difference Only the TRUTH Building better tomorrow Opportunity to do it RIGHT Don’t be misled Actions start NOW New Voice, New Ideas
As a 30-year professional with the information industry I will bring:
• Innovation and creativity to the board • Help protect property values • Focus on your needs and goals, not those of the Board or general manager I AM FOR:
I AM AGAINST:
• Outsourcing certain services • Fixing crumbling bridges • Improving community appearance • More transparency
• Wasteful spending • Raising HOA or AMENITY FEES • Excessive reserve fund • Non-essential projects
I will work on getting our priorities in order. We need to invest in what many owners are asking for. For example more walking trails, bike trails and pedestrian friendly neighborhoods. When elected I will work with my board colleagues in a collaborative way to address our infrastructure challenges. Everything is possible if we embrace common goals and work together as a TEAM.
The stakes are too high. Elect the right candidates. If you AGREE please consider voting for me. THANK YOU! Paid Advertisement, Authority Slobodan Trendic
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6 Ocean Pines PROGRESS
OCEAN PINES
June - Early July 2015
Yacht Club complaints abound at Town Hall meeting By ROTA L. KNOTT Contributing Writer nyone expecting relentless cheerleading for the year-old Ocean Pines Yacht Club at General Manager Bob Thompson’s June 3 town hall meeting must have been sorely disappointed. To say that Thompson’s typical emphasis on the positive was drowned out by complaints understates the obvious. Nearly half of the two-hour long town hall meeting hosted by the Ocean Pines Association’s general manager was devoted to a question and answer session about the status of theYacht Club, with members grilling Bob Thompson about everything from finances to staffing to what some say is the boring décor of the amenity. Thompson kicked off the meeting with an overview of Yacht Club operations since the facility opened Memorial Day weekend last year. “It was extremely successful from a revenue standpoint,” he said, adding that the club generated the largest amount of revenue in its history when the OPA first opened its doors. But, he said, running the new Yacht
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Thompson calls first year of operating the new amenity a learning experience, but expects better results with the new manager, Jerry Lewis Club has been a learning process for everyone involved. While the OPA managed to get the facility open, not everything was finished, and functionally it was not as efficient or effective as needed. “We had some things that we Bob Thompson didn’t do so well,” he said. Indeed, the bottom line results weren’t all that rosy. Yacht Club operations lost just a tad less than $190,000 in the fiscal year that ended this past April 30, excluding depreciation. Depreciation charged against the building is the way that current Ocean Pines property owners, who have just spent the past five years paying for the new Yacht Club with a year or two to go, get to pay for this building’s replace-
ment in about 40 years from now. Last year, Thompson said the costs of operating the facility were much higher than they needed to be for several reasons. Wages and benefits “killed us,” he said. After Labor Day staffing costs needed to be reduced dramatically, but that didn’t happen, he said, adding that there were simply too many people working there through the fall. The OPA did not make those cuts “as quickly or as deeply as we should have.” One Ocean Pines resident asked how much the OPA pays seasonal employees at the Yacht Club and said they could be paid less at half of the minimum wage rate. Thompson responded that he would never pay someone who is not a tipped employee just $4 per hour to work at the Yacht Club. He noted that the rate is $3.63 an hour for tipped employees like servers. Utility costs were also excessive be-
cause the second floor was heated all year, staff had a hard time learning to adjust the computerized equipment like the thermostats, and gas costs were higher than expected, he said. Now, the OPA has installed propane tanks so it can purchase fuel at a lower cost and intends to close off the second floor whenever possible. Service and supply costs were also more than originally budgeted. Because the facility was so well used, the OPA had to purchase additional items like bowls and flatware, Thompson said. In response to numerous questions about when certain things will happen at the Yacht Club, such as decorating of the amenity, Thompson said issues that have a direct effect on the bottom line need to receive priority attention. He said he would love to be able to hire a decorator and dress up the entire place, but that isn’t financially possible right now. Instead, the OPA is adding small elements such as palm trees and other seasonal plantings. “Our money has to be spent on operational efficiencies. It just has to,” he said. Thompson cited the tiki bar as a porTo Page 8
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Another woman complained about the sun shining on the tiki bar and asked Thompson to do something about From Page 7 tion of the amenity that wasn’t finished it. “It’s horrible,� she said. when the Yacht Club first opened. In As with many other items, Thompson fact, the OPA is still making improve- said it’s a matter of funding priorities. ments to the tiki bar to increase its func- He said that perhaps it can be addressed Wiine Tasting a gincluding Every Dayyadding in some way in the future with the additionality and security, Nat a ur uraal Light g CK Monda vi and installing taps for draft beer hurrition of an awning. $15 99 1.5L $9.99 30 Packk $15.99 cane shutters. When questioned about He said there were other glitches in Ocean Pines PROGRESS August - Early September 2014 the need for hurricane shutters, the gen- the building, including a reduction in eral manager said they are required to the size of the kitchen that wasn’t dissecure the facility. Last year, staff had covered by the OPA until it was time to to break down everything in the bar and install equipment. The change in size take it into the Yacht Club building ev- was made to meet requirements of the ery night. fire marshal, but the OPA didn’t know When asked why the OPA didn’t that until the equipment arrived and include the hurricane shutters on the staff asked “Why the hell doesn’t this structure when it was built, he said the fit?� Thompson said. original plan was todepart reuse the shutters Coynes Other OPA members were buzzing from the old tiki bar,was butheld they A farewell dinner on didn’t fit. about the proliferation of flies in the “We didn’t ignore it.5, Things Tuesday evening, Aug. at the just don’t Yacht Club dining room. Thompson said go perfectly when you start a new build- he has a plan to deal with the Ž pests this Lighthouse Sound restaurant for anding what impo ortant ing,� he said. Understa year by’s altering the service flow and inCarolyn and Jim Coyne, longthe timesize of the stalling fans to disrupt the airflow at the Residents questioned Ocean Pines residents who will tiki bar, saying it is smaller be than the old entrances to the building. Last year all backreduced to the Washington, bar moving and has access by patrons of the glass doors were kept open, allowbecause of the new design. ing flies to enter the building easily. DC area. “Good planning,� quipped one man in But this year the plan is for staff to the audience. exit and enter the dining room via the “Those are the digs that aren’t neces- side exterior doors only. Additionally, sary,� Thompson responded. “It was good fans will be installed above the doorplanning.� ways to create an airflow that prevents
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A farewell dinner was held on Tuesday evening, Aug. 5, at the Lighthouse Sound restaurant for Carolyn and Jim Coyne, long time Ocean Pines residents who will be moving back to the Washington, DC area.
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were open in the restaurant and lack of flies from entering. If those steps are not enough to re- menu variety. Thompson said the new duce the invasion of flies, Thompson said food and beverage manager is already the next step is to install an air curtain, working to address those issues. The OPA just hired a new Yacht Club a device that shoots burst of air at the CLEANERS & ALewis, LT TER RA Awho TIONS T has more Jerry doorways. One resident wanted to know Manager, why the OPA wouldn’t just go ahead and than 20 years of food and beverage mantake step, Prthat ofeessio nal but NailThompson Care for bsaid oth the agement experience in restaurants as hotels and resorts. He previously air curtains are&significantly Ladies Gentlemen more ex- well as Hof A D and bevSER RVIthe CESdirector WITH THIS served as food pensive than fans. for both the Princess A woman in the audience added that erage EX XPIRES Royale 12-31-15 and 410-641-6362 last year patrons couldn’t be seated Conference Center in Ocean City and will be less expensive ultimately to bu outside from the outside, but had to go Wyndham Hotels and Resorts in New all of atserved one time becau Hethose most courts recently as the inside the Yacht Club to the hostess sta- Jersey. From Page 11 of the cost of site preparation and co manager of the Ocean City Brewing tion and then back out to a table. She 410-208-0 0 atap patia.com struction involved. “In the long run i Company. saidplan that for waspickleball confusingcourts for patrons. grew from insaid toLewis’ experience Thompson said going to befiscal Thompson less expensive do it that way,� he sa cluding four to that eightisn’t courts in this eating establishments changed for this year because it would with local Clarke also questioned the and need f year. “We’ve always talked about four,� makes him the ideal candidate require double staffing, a hostess inside resorts additional platform tennis courts. Wh he said, in reference to the capital budand one outside. He said the hostess sta- to manage the food and beverage opereveryone keeps saying that sports for this fiscal yearside back in ations in Ocean Pines. He has experitionget wasapproved located near the building’s growing, the platform tennis membe February. ence in food and beverage management, door so patrons could enter there and go ship management, has actually fallen by 35cost percen property budgeting, directlyHe to said the station to be seated. the OPA only has 63 picklecontrol He say that planstoto he and said.human resources. balldid members andthere that are equates about Other members asked forabout sports improve operations by adding a service When asked by Collins a tim six users per court. on the TVs and a dance floor. bar on the far side of the building by the packages line for building the new courts, Thom Director Jack Collins said it is a matstairs. The service bar will be for staff Thompson didn’t rule out either but said sonabout said he couldn’t provide one yet. ofso thethey “economies scale.� said it it is all funding. He said last year use ter only no longerofneed to He go to the regular bar for drinks for seated din- the sports package was too expensive ing patrons. That should reduce conges- because it was based on the number of seats in the entire Yacht Club building. tion at the bar, he said. Other complaints were about waiting “That’s why we didn’t do it last season. too long to be seated even though tables It’s a terribly expensive endeavor.�
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Nextcourts to Subwa S at ay all of those one time because of the cost of site preparation and construction involved. “In the long run it’s less expensive to do it(ffax) that way,� he said. 410-629-1048 Clarke also questioned the need for additional platform tennis courts. While everyone keeps saying that sports is growing, the platform tennis membership has actually fallen by 35 percent, he said. When asked by Collins about a timeline for building the new courts, Thompson said he couldn’t provide one yet.
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From Page 11 plan for pickleball courts grew from including four to eight courts in this fiscal year. “We’ve always talked about four,� he said, in reference to the capital budget approved for this fiscal year back in February. He said the OPA only has 63 pickleball members and that equates to about six users per court. Director Jack Collins said it is a matter of the “economies of scale.� He said it
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OCEAN PINES By TOM STAUSS Publisher cean Pines Association director Bill Cordwell, unhappy with the apparent lack of movement in discussions between the OPA and Sandpiper Energy for a new natural gas franchise agreement, recently suggested that General Manager Bob Thompson be given the task of checking out whether negotiations that could lead to an agreement can be jump-started. In a June 3 special board meeting, the directors agreed to allow Thompson to contact Sandpiper representatives to determine the status of issues that previously had divided the two sides, such as a franchise fee and reimbursement for OPA legal fees. The action effectively makes the general manager the OPA’s lead negotiator, a role he had briefly this past December until a kerfuffle with Director Marty Clarke over quotes about the status of negotiations in the local media led the general manager unilaterally to take himself out of the role. There is no indication that the OPA is prepared to make any concessions about the board’s desire for a reported $150,000 franchise fee as part of a new agreement or its insistence on reimbursement for legal expenses incurred in negotiations
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June - Early July 2015Ocean Pines PROGRESS
Thompson back in as lead OPA negotiator in talks with Sandpiper Board directs general manager to check with utility company to determine if there’s any way to get natural gas franchise agreement discussions back on track thus far, roughly $70,000. Last year, the OPA hired a Salisbury attorney to assist in hammering out a natural gas franchise agreement. Any franchise fee, even if it is part of an agreement with Sandpiper, would be contingent on approval by the Maryland Public Service Commission. At the board’s May 28 monthly meeting, Cordwell asked OPA President Dave Stevens whether there had been any progress in the effort to bring natural gas to Ocean Pines and, if not, if the OPA is “doing anything about it.” It is assumed that conversion of natural gas in Ocean Pines is impractical without the active involvement of the
OPA. That involvement could only occur in the context of a new natural gas agreement. The short answer to Cordwell’s question, Stevens said, is no; but he said that the old 1990s agreement covering propane delivery is still in force. He said Sandpiper recently has given the four-member Sandpiper task force no reason or basis to proceed with drafting an agreement, although he has confirmed that communications from the utility last year had seemed promising at the time. Stevens is a member of the task force together with Clarke, director Jack Collins and Thompson.
OPA directors to review Thompson performance, bonus compensation By TOM STAUSS Publisher he Board of Directors shortly will be tackling the politically-fraught issue of reviewing General Manager Bob Thompson’s job performance since the approval of a controversial new contract in April of last year and whether he will qualify for additional bonus compensation under that contract, Ocean Pines Association President Dave Stevens said recently. Without giving a precise date or even a rough idea for when that performance review will occur, Stevens said only that it would occur sometime before a new board takes office in August after the annual OPA election. Because it’s a personnel issue, the review and discussion about bonus compensation will occur in closed session. One issue to be discussed is whether Thompson will qualify for roughly $10,000 in additional compensation unrelated to meeting financial goals. Another $30,000 or so in incentives are tied to reaching amenity financial goals, and probably are out of reach because key amenities in the aggregate failed to meet budgetary forecasts in the 2014-15 fiscal year that ended April 30. The $10,000 bonus unattached to financial performance is discretionary. The employment contract that the board extended to Thompson in April of last year specified that the criteria for the
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non-financial goals would be worked out over the summer, and it was. Thompson’s base pay was increased from $150,000 to $165,000, but the incentives in theory could have boosted the final compensation to $205,000, not including health insurance and a retirement plan. During a July 29 special meeting last year, the directors voted 7-0 to approve a list of six “non-financial” objectives under which Thompson is eligible for a $10,000 bonus under the incentive package approved in April of last year. The six objectives were essentially the same as the five objectives proposed by former director Jeff Knepper at the board’s June 21 meeting and discussed again at the board’s regular meeting July 23. The directors had been exchanging emails word-smithing the details of the non-financial objectives, including adding deadlines by which measurable progress is supposed to be delivered. A sixth item was added as part of the motion approving the objectives at the July 29 meeting. The objectives are: • delivery of an information technology plan for updating the OPA’s network of computers and software, as measured by completeness and accuracy, with a deadline of January of this year. • coordination with the county and development and implementation of a plan
for OPA oversight of a county program to replace aging water mains in Ocean Pines, as measured by quality and implementation, listed as a “fall project” with no firm deadline. • updating the OPA’s capital improvement plan for presentation to the board, as measured by completeness for a plan of action through 2020, with a December deadline. Thompson gave the board a new version of the plan in two phases in 2013, with the second phase delivered in November of last year. It included a so-called “rack and stack” of proposed projects totaling about $17 million. The CIP process has been taken over by Stevens since then, with no obvious path for Thompson to make good on this item in order to achieve a bonus. • successful operation of the new Yacht Club, as measured by quality of service, speed of service, quality of food and completion of the building, as measured by monthly reports. The Yacht Club lost $189,152 last year, according to unaudited results from the April 30 financial statement. It opened in May of last year. development of a drainage strategic plan and successful operations, as measured by responsiveness and quality of work, with a deadline of March of this year. • delivery of a summary of suggested changes in internal OPA procedures, guidelines and restrictions for junk To Page 12
9
Cordwell made it clear that the impasse is frustrating to him and others in the community who want to see a franchise agreement that would govern the roll-out of natural gas conversion in Ocean Pines. He said the OPA shouldn’t insist on a “come see us” approach with Sandpiper. “I’d like to see the GM and the GM alone make contact (with Sandpiper),” Cordwell said. “It (negotiations) stopped when the board got involved, adding, “once it got involved, things got bogged down.” Collins, one of the task force members, took exception to Cordwell’s view that the board is largely to blame for the current impasse. “I don’t buy it,” he said, blaming it instead on the task force being “stonewalled” by Sandpiper, adding, however, that he didn’t have “a problem with asking the general manager” to reopen communications with Sandpiper. He suggested that one director should accompany Thompson in attending any face-to-face meetings with Sandpiper executives that result from any new opening. Clarke seemed to lean against appointing Thompson as lead negotiator, suggesting that “we have a team in place” to deal with Sandpiper. He said Ocean Pines has a “gas company problem” that will continue indefinitely “as long as people don’t understand they’re paying 45 percent more” for propane than they need to by having it delivered via pipeline. Terry backed Cordwell’s proposal without backing his assertion that the board caused the current impasse. “We’ve had a group in place,” he said. “Nobody’s moving. What you tried didn’t work.” He said the board should authorize Thompson to “reach out and in non-confrontational way” ask Sandpiper whether the company is “ready to move” on a new franchise agreement. “They can’t move (in Ocean Pines) without it,” Terry said. Stevens initially pushed back against a public vote on whether to appoint or reauthorize Thompson as lead negotiator, adding that “he was not unappointed by the board” to that role last December. He then suggested a special meeting of the board in closed session to hammer out the issue of whether Thompson would resume the role of lead negotiator and whether any OPA negotiating position will change if and when any new talks emerge. Cordwell initially objected to the meeting being held in closed session, but other directors – Clarke, Stevens and Collins – all said it should be in closed session since it dealt with a contract matter. Director Sharyn O’Hare then asked Thompson if he wanted to comment. “You don’t want my comments,” he told the board, somewhat facetiously. Terry then said he would go along with a special meeting on the subject and, after discussing possible dates, the board settled on June 3.
10 Ocean Pines PROGRESS
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to achieve 90 percent of the deficit target of the five amenities combined, or a loss From Page 9 of $97,000 under last year’s approved vehicles, overgrown landscaping and budget. Thompson could have earned that “un-maintained/abandoned” homes, first $10,000 if the combined loss in with a December 2014 deadline. the five departments turned out to be Thompson’s contract includes a nine$109,000 or better. month severance package that guaranTo earn a second $10,000 bonus, the tees salary and health care benefits. The board can terminate Thompson’s contract says that that Thompson would employment “without cause or at our have needed to trim $50,000 off that iniconvenience” at any time, but the OPA tial $109,000. A third $10,000 would have been is liable for his salary and health care earned if the deficit had been trimmed benefits for nine months after any offiby another $50,000. He would have recial termination date, according to an ceived the full bonus if these five departaccount in the May, 2014, Progress. Thompson can earn an additional ments were close to break-even. The incentive package was specifical25 percent of his base salary, or roughly designed to avoid payouts for sepaly $40,000, by meeting certain perforrate amenity departments. mance standards. A quick review of the unaudited reOf that $40,000, $30,000 could come sults for the fiscal year ending April 30 from meeting amenity targets that even shows that aquatics, Yacht Club and at the time appeared to pose a difficult golf operations missed their budgets by challenge. The contract specifies that five amen- $46,648, $189,152 and $34,349, respecity operations together – golf, the Yacht tively. Actual losses were $168,614, Club food and beverage, aquatics and Beach Club food and beverage – are the $189,152 and $107,649, respectively. The Beach Club, however, did much measures against which Thompson’s better. It out-performed its budget by performance will be compared for the $10,189, earning $92,723 for the OPA in purpose of determining a bonus pay-out. the 2014-15 fiscal year. Specifically excluded from the benchIt would appear that if the directors mark calculation are tennis, Beach Club want to give Thompson a bonus, it would parking and marinas. have to be the $10,000 not tethered to To earn first $10,000Paper amenity YDI the 150403 - Progress 4_975w inx 5.67h.pdf 4/9/15 10:34:41 AM centive, Thompson would have needed financial performance.
Performance review
June - Early July 2015Ocean Pines PROGRESS
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OCEAN PINES
June - Early July 2015
By ROTA L. KNOTT Contributing Writer fter months of searching for a remedy to the splitting, slippery, sloping situation at the Swim and Racquet Club splash pad, the Ocean Pines Association Board of Directors has decided to replace the surface with a rubberized coating. That was the recommendation of General Manager Bob Thompson together with Aquatics Director Colby Phillips and Public Works Director Eddie Wells. During the board’s May 28 monthly meeting, the directors accepted a $9,180 proposal from the firm of Pools and Spas Unlimited of Milford, Del. to remove the crumbling tiles, level out the base as much as possible to improve water flow and install a Rubaroc surface on the splash pad. Rubaroc, a resin and rubber based product, was also just installed around the pool perimeter at Mumford’s Landing and, according to Thompson, is getting rave reviews from pool patrons. Instead of redesigning the children’s pool at the Swim and Racquet Club to make it handicap accessible, the OPA last year opted to replace it with a new splash pad. The American Disabilities Act required the baby pool to have a zero entry access. Rather than making changes necessary to create the zero entry access, the OPA decided to replace
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Rubber and resin-based coat touted as fix to S&R Club splash pad woes Fourth of July reopening targeted; OPA to seek legal advice on status of payment to original contractor
the baby pool with a splash pad that would satisfy the ADA requirement and eliminate the need for a lifeguard at the site. However, the OPA was not happy with the work of the original splash pad contractor and has refused to finish paying the company for the work. Thompson said the OPA is not pleased with the condition or the workmanship of the splash pad that was completed last year. He said he explored some opportunities with the current contractor to fix the problems at the amenity but those discussions didn’t net the results the OPA wanted. “So we sought some additional options,” Thompson said, finally settling on the Rubaroc material after seeing it on other aquatics facilities and using it at the Mumford’s Landing pool. “We reviewed it at a couple of different locations. And it seems like a really good option,” he said. OPA President Dave Stevens asked if this is a single piece of material as opposed to individual tiles like the original
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design. “Correct,” Thompson responded. “Rubarock is actually a resin mixed with a shredded rubber material,” he said. “And it’s troweled into place,” which means it’s possible to level out low areas. He said the contractor mixes the color for the surface, adds the resin material to it and then spreads it on the surface to be covered. “It seems like a really, really nice option,” Thompson said. “It also created a non-slip area around that pool. And it looks fabulous.” Director Sharyn O’Hare said the Rubaroc material is very soft to walk or stand on. “No more scratches or banged toes,” she said. Directors asked whether or not the new surface will improve drainage on the splash pad. Thompson said the contractor will re-level the surface to enhance the ability for water to run off but, without completely redoing the structure, drainage can only be improved so much. “We think that with the Rubaroc material, even though were not 100 percent pleased with the elements the way they are, we can have a functional pad,” he said. O’Hare asked if the splash pad would be open for use by July 4. Thompson said if the OPA is able to garner the required state approvals soon, then construction can be completed by the holiday. She said inspectors have looked at the facility and provided input as the OPA weighed its options for replacing the surface. Director Marty Clarke wanted to know what Thompson plans to do about the balance owed to the original project contractor. He said making changes to the amenity could negate any chance the OPA has of proving that the company did faulty work.
“Once we go in and start fooling with their product, we will have to pay the other guys,” Clarke said. Thompson questioned Clarke about his comments saying that just a few weeks ago the director was adamant that the OPA not pay the original contractor, instead forcing it to file a lawsuit against the association if it wants any more money. “What you just said is different than what you said then,” he told Clarke, adding, “You just said pay them; that’s different than let them sue us.” Clarke responded that he “didn’t say that at all.” Instead he said he just wants to know if the OPA had sought an opinion from legal counsel about the status of that pending payment if it hires another contractor to make changes to the splash pad. Thompson said he had not yet sought input from the OPA attorney. “I think what he’s going to tell you is the minute you do this, you’re going to have to write a check to these other guys,” Clarke said, taking a guess at what the legal advice would be from OPA attorney Joe Moore. “That’s just what I think he’s going to tell you.” OPA President Dave Stevens said he doesn’t see any issue with moving forward to replace the faulty and dangerous existing splash pad surface. He cited two reasons, the quality of the original construction and the need for an immediate remedy to the problem created by the original contractor. “They have given us a product with very poor workmanship,” Stevens said. “We are retaining part of the contract amount because of that.” Because of that, the OPA was forced to rectify the problem and hire another company to fix the defective surface in order to have a usable pool, Stevens said. “I don’t think there’s anything that can prevent us from fixing the pool to our satisfaction,” he said, adding that the OPA has found a way to do just that at a reasonable cost. Still, he didn’t object to asking the opinion of the OPA attorney. Director Sharyn O’Hare made a mo-
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14 Ocean Pines PROGRESS
OCEAN PINES
June - Early July 2015Ocean Pines PROGRESS 15
Resurfacing would occur in late August-early September if board approves By TOM STAUSS Publisher he Ocean Pines Association is soliciting proposals for the repair and refinishing of the Sports Core pool and is targeting the end of August and early September to close the pool in order to do the work. Some outdoor pools will be open during the repair so pool members and daily users will experience minimal inconvenience. The project also is subject to approval by the OPA Board of Directors once General Manager Bob Thompson and his review team recommend a contractor from among the bidders. A request for proposals (RFP) was posted on the OPA Web site June 10 for the pool repairs. A separate RFP will be posted for a Rubaroc decking surface in
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Splash pad From Page 14 tion to award the contract to Pools and Spas Unlimited for the Rubaroc surface. When Clarke asked that she include in the motion that staff get a legal opinion on the issue, O’Hare initially balked, saying that “personally I think we need to get this done.” She eventually backpedaled and said she doesn’t have a problem with Thompson talking with legal counsel and that if he finds out there is a problem, she would expect him to come back to the board with it. “Right. Exactly,” Stevens responded. Director Pat Renaud was worried that delaying the project could result in someone getting hurt on the existing broken surface. Even though the facility isn’t open, he said someone could get in and get hurt. “We don’t intend to open the splash pad in its current condition. So we won’t put ourselves in that position,” Thompson said. The board ultimately unanimously approved O’Hare’s motion.
a portion of the pool area. A pre-bid walk-through at the Sports Core pool is scheduled for the morning of June 17. Bids are due June 25 with a contract to be awarded shortly thereafter, subject to board approval. The project is included at a cost of $150,000 in this year’s approved capital budget and has been for at least three years. Long a priority of the Aquatics Advisory Committee, it appears that the Sports Core pool will at long last get the attention committee members have supported. The scope of the project includes the removal and replacement of 12 deteriorated skimmers, as well as the installation of 12-inch wide bull nosed safety coping around the edge of the pool. The contractor will also install a single row of waterline tile along the interior vertical wall of the pool, just below the coping. Also included are depth markers and “no diving” tiles within the interior tile band. The RFP asks contractors to submit prices for reconditioning the existing
concrete surface with a traditional plaster finish with a Diamond-Brite finish coat or replacing it with a vinyl membrane such as the Natare system that was recently installed at the Mumford’s Landing pool. The Natare membrane has certain advantages – relative ease of cleaning and a ten-year warranty. A traditional plaster surface normally is less expensive than a Natare system, however. The resurfacing work will include cutting-in existing racing lane lines, racing lane targets, demarcation line tile, and waterline tiles, in addition to preparing pool surfaces for all interior pool fittings, such as return line fittings, main drains, lights, lane line anchors, and interior pool rail anchors. If a traditional resurfacing option is chosen, it would include the application of a bond coat and the final Diamond-Brite surface. The RFP asks contractors to submit proposals for non-budgeted items that may or may not be included in the final scope of work. These items include two commercial-grade pumps to replacing pumps in
Outdoor pools open on time Contractor meets deadline for completing repairs on Mumford’s Landing and Swim and Racquet Club pools By TOM STAUSS Publisher ust in time for Memorial Day weekend, repairs and resurfacing of two of the Ocean Pines Association outdoor swimming pools were completed by contractors. The pools opened on time as had been promised by OPA General Manager Bob Thompson. The Beach Club and Yacht Club pools also reopened as scheduled for the holiday weekend. After months of debate about how to
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address problems with air pockets under the Mumford’s Landing pool that led to sinking of one end, the contractor, Pools & Spas, poured a concrete slurry mix in areas under the pool floor and decking, allowing gravity to fill voids in the soil as required. The work involved digging a trench around the perimeter of the pool, pouring the fill material into the trench and allowing gravity to work it into the voids. In lieu of simply resurfacing and retiling the Mumford’s Landing swimming pool once structural issues were repaired,
the pump room, a new pool slide, easyroll stainless steel pool access steps, and a new 10 foot by 10 foot stepped entry into the pool in the area where the current pool slide is currently located. The new stepped entry would make it easier to accommodate very young children during swimming lessons and older people. The stepped entry is an idea of Aquatics Director Colby Phillips and has the backing of the aquatics advisory committee. The plans call for the relocating the slide on the other side of the deep well area of the pool from the existing location. An existing pool ladder in the four foot area of the pool is slated for removal. A separate RFP would deal with decking issues, with plans for Rubaroc around the pool similar to that which has been installed around the pool at Mumford’s Landing. The Sports Core pool has a lot of low areas where water accumulates during periods of heavy pool use. Rubaroc, which is troweled on over concrete, is seen as a product that can improve the aesthetics of the decking while dealing with poor drainage.
the board on the recommendation of Thompson voted to install a pool liner at the amenity rather than do a traditional plaster resurfacing. Thompson said the liner technology offers several advantages as compared to traditional pool surfaces. The Natare liner system provides for a pool surface that is easily cleaned and maintained, and the smooth surface membrane generally does not allow dirt to penetrate the surface of the membrane and is formulated with anti-microbial agents designed to inhibit the growth of bacteria and algae. Natare warrants its system for a period of ten years against peel, flake, crack, tear, delaminate and guarantees that it will retain its integrity as a watertight membrane during the warranty period.
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OCEAN PINES
June - Early July 2015
By TOM STAUSS Publisher t probably does good work at times and probably has played a useful role over the decades, but lately the Clubs Advisory Committee has descended into acrimony. Some of that was on display at the committee’s May meeting, during which committee chairman Les Purcell and committee member Steve Linn exchanged invitations for the other to resign his position. Purcell is a former OPA board member and Linn has emerged as a committee member not afraid to take on what
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Outdoor pools From Page 15 Another new feature at the Mumford’s Landing pool is a Rubaroc finish that was troweled on for several feet around the perimeter of the pool, which adds to pool aesthetics and offers a soft transition to the pool from the concrete decking. At the Swim and Racquet Club pool, the contractor removed the old finish down to the concrete, repaired tiles and lane markers and then replastered the entire pool. The project included changing the ladders by installing wall treads and top railings, reinstalling swim blocks so they line up evenly and repairing the expansion joint in the first phase of the work.
Acrimony divides Clubs Committee New Yacht Club manager introduces himself to panel he perceives as management defects at the Yacht Club. At a recent meeting of the Board of Directors, during the public comments segment, he suggested that the OPA consider leasing out the amenity to a competent local restaurateur with the proviso that it be kept open year-round. The committee’s May meeting started off amicably enough with the arrival
and introduction of the new Yacht Club manager, Jerry Lewis. The gregarious Lewis told the group that he had been on the job for roughly a month and was learning the staff and systems used at the amenity. In an aside to the panel, he said he had a “thick skin” and could handle constructive criticism well. There was little of that at the meeting directed at him,
The second phase involved replacing the handicapped entry chair for a pole that swings either way, replacing all tiles and applying the bond coating and a new Diamond Brite finish coat. New at the Swim and Racquet Club pool this summer, food service will begin on a limited basis on weekends starting Memorial Day weekend, to expand to daily service in mid-June. The splash pad at the pool is undergoing repair, with new Rubaroc to be installed in place over the slip-prone concrete decking. Fourth of July weekend is the target date for the reopening of the splash pad. The OPA also is working on new fencing and other improvements to the Beach Club pool deck area that could be completed as soon as mid-June. New white sand will be brought into an ex-
panded fenced-in area by the OPA Public Works Department, along with new beach umbrellas and other pool furniture, and palm trees. The project will add 3,930 square feet of enclosed space available for pool users, according to Aquatics Director Colby Phillips. If the expanded enclosed sandy beach is well received, it’s possible that the concrete decking expansion included in this year’s OPA capital budget for up to $100,000 won’t need to be spent, she recently told members of the OPA’s Aquatics Advisory Committee. Also expected for later in the year is the installation of two new pool covers for Mumford’s Landing and the Swim and Racquet Club pools once they close for the season. The pool covers, at roughly $5,000 each, were included in the approved capital budget for 2015-16.
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although members told Lewis he would be well advised to restore the 4-7 p.m. happy hour schedule at the club rather than cut off reduced drink prices at 6 p.m. Lewis said the extra hour was already in the works for implementation. He won kudos from the committee for expediting the recent installation of a draught beer line to the Yacht Club deck’s tiki bar in time for Memorial Day weekend. Lewis said he made a call to an individual in Ocean City that he’s known for years as the “beer guy.” That individual showed up soon after to do the installation, much sooner than otherwise would have occurred had Lewis, a veteran of the Ocean City restaurant and bar business, not known whom to call. He also told the panel that he regards employee training as a critical part of his job description and that his arrival on the job before Memorial Day weekend had given him time to “polish up” the service skills of the staff he inherited. Committee members advised him to expect “wall to wall” people at the amenity that weekend. After Lewis left the meeting to return to his duties, the committee addressed but took no action on a written motion by Linn that Purcell in particular found objectionable. The motion read: “The CAC respectfully advises the Board of Directors that we, as well as many in the community, To Page 18
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OCEAN PINES
June - Early July 2015
Board withdraws F-01 investment resolution from second reading
TOM STAUSS Publisher n order to give the Budget and Finance Advisory Committee more time to review the document with certain directors, the Ocean Pines Association Board of Directors on May 28 withdrew from second reading a revised version of resolution F-01 on investment guidelines. Director Jack Collins made the motion to withdraw the resolution from consideration and to send it back to the committee for further refinement. He said that after discussion with members of the committee it was determined that additional information needs to be added to the resolution concerning investment policy. The committee plans to hold a special meeting with three board members to discuss the topic further. “It will be a healthy exercise,” he said. OPA President Dave Stevens said it is likely that the committee will still recommend revisions to resolution F-01. At that time, the resolution will be brought
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before the board again for a first reading. Although a revised investment policy resolution narrowly had passed the Board of Directors on first reading in late April – the vote was 4-3 in favor Jack Collins -- it could be tough sledding ahead for a proposed revised resolution that would change, albeit modestly, the Ocean Pines Association’s very conservative policy of investing its reserve funds in government-backed securities only. On behalf of the Budget and Finance Advisory Committee, to which he is board liaison, Collins introduced for first reading, at the board’s April 30 monthly meeting, the proposed change in Board Resolution F-01. The resolution governs the OPA investment policy and has been on the committee’s agenda for years, with very little to show for the time and energy expended. A similar change in F-01 was adopted on first reading by the board of
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directors in November of 2013, only to be pulled for consideration a month later when a board majority, including chief critic Marty Clarke, strenuously objected. The matter hasn’t been addressed formally at the board level since then. Its chief architect and supporter is committee member Gene Ringsdorf, who
so far has been unable to convince a majority of OPA directors that even a modest easing in the OPA’s investment policy is warranted. If Collin’s introduction of a revised F-01 shows anything, it’s that Ringsdorf is doggedly persistent. Although Collins voted with the 4-3
Clubs Committee
ing. Of those who remained, only Wayne Littleton seemed somewhat supportive of Linn’s motion. At one point during the discussion, Linn brought up a matter that has roiled the committee previously. According to Linn, at a recent meeting OPA General Manager Bob Thompson “came to chastise me” for comments the committee member had made previously, apparently regarding Yacht Club financial performance and Thompson’s refusal to provide financial data about certain Yacht Club events. “If we’re filling the seats, why are we still losing money (at the Yacht Club)?” Linn asked. He attributed the annual loss at the club to the fact that it doesn’t make enough money in the summertime to offset losses in the colder months. Purcell said that Linn was making a lot of statements and that he “didn’t know what he was talking about” in some of them. Linn responded that Thompson had targeted him for criticism and that he wanted Purcell out as chairman of the committee because he was “rude and nasty.” Member Gary Miller defended Purcell and said it was Linn who was rude and nasty during committee discussion. The committee’s board liaison, Bill Cordwell, finally had enough and left the meeting before it officially adjourned, muttering on his way out that the meeting had been a waste of time. Shortly before adjournment, Linn told Purcell that he should resign as chairman, prompting Purcell to tell Linn that he should resign as a committee member. There’s been no indication that either will act on the other’s suggestion.
From Page 16 feel that the new clubs manager should be allowed to perform his job with the same autonomy that other department managers/chiefs are afforded. The GM (general manager) and the board should not interfere with the daily operations of the YC facility in any way, and the board and GM should not dictate pricing, menu items, services offered, or anything else specifically related to the board/restaurant/catering business.” The motion went on to say that the “new manager should be permitted to assume the role of the ‘owner’ of the business and make all decisions required while acting in that capacity. The roles of both the GM and the board should be limited to supervising Mr. Lewis’ performance as an OPA employee as well as setting community policy governing the amenity such as hours of operation, hours of entertainment, etc.” “Furthermore, neither the GM nor Board members should address Yacht Club/Cove-related customer complaints, comments, or suggestions but should instead refer those making said complaints, comments or suggestions directly to the new manager,” the motion concluded. Noting that the meeting was about four members short of its full committee complement, Purcell suggested that Linn’s motion be postponed for consideration at another time, although his body language suggested that another time could be never and he wouldn’t mind. One member, George Bowers, left the meeting early because he said he didn’t want his comments to be quoted by a newspaper reporter present at the meet-
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Revised policy gets sent back to budget and finance committee for ‘further refinement’
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OCEAN PINES Investment policy From Page 18
majority to pass the proposed change in F-01 on first reading, it almost seemed as if he was doing so as a courtesy to the committee and Ringsdorf. After the meeting, he told the Progress he was not at all sure he, in the end, will be able to vote for any change in policy that would allow the OPA to invest in anything but low yielding investments backed by the federal government. Those generally are certificates of deposits, CDs, or Certificates of Deposit Account Registry Services, known as CDARs for short. The proposed F-01 introduced by Collins on behalf of the committee doesn’t explicitly address the types of securities in which the OPA would be allowed to invest. It doesn’t even modify the resolution’s current language that sets out “capital preservation” as the primary goal of the OPA’s investment policy. It adds “preservation of purchasing power” as a secondary investment goal, code for allowing higher yielding investments that won’t necessarily be government-backed securities such as CDs or CDARs. In addition to the language change pertaining to a secondary investment goal for OPA reserve funds that are held for longer periods of time, the proposed revised F-01 would establish a procedure for a quarterly performance review
June - Early July 2015Ocean Pines PROGRESS of the OPA’s investment portfolio by the OPA treasurer and OPA management (presumably the OPA General Manager and the Controller Art Carmine). The revised F-01 also calls for an investment policy statement to be developed by the budget and finance committee that would specify allowable fund investments, subject to board approval, that would be recommended by an investment advisory professional. These investments would include investments “other than those guaranteed by the U.S. government,” according to a summary provided to the board by Collins. No doubt aware that the proposed revision of F-01 as drafted would face resistance from a board majority, OPA Director Tom Terry suggested a revision to the motion of approval offered by Collins. Terry said that his amended motion would allow a sub-committee of board members to work collaboratively with the Budget and Finance Committee to work out yet another revision of F-01 that might be able to attract the votes of a board majority when it is presented for second reading. Although Terry didn’t mention it, it’s possible that the “collaborative effort” might also include development of a specific investment policy statement that could be presented to the board along with a revised F-01 on second reading. Collins accepted Terry’s amendment, and it passed 4-3, with Collins, Terry, Pat
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Junior golf scholarships
At the Stephen Decatur High School Awards Ceremony May 20, the Members Golf Council of the Ocean Pines Golf Club presented two scholarships in the amount of $1500 each to members of the senior class. Danny Parker (left), played on the golf team during his tenure at SDHS. He was a former bag boy at Ocean Pines and will use his scholarship at Dominican College in Orangetown, NY. Brooks Holloway was on the varsity golf team for three years and is ranked 59 in the state. He will use his scholarship at Stevenson University in Owings Mills, Md. Both participated in the junior golf program in Ocean Pines. The awards were presented by Suzanne Brooke, chair of the Junior Golf Scholarship Committee from Ocean Pines Golf & Country Club. Renaud and Sharyn O’Hare voting in favor. Opposed were Clarke, OPA President Dave Stevens and Director Bill Cordwell, the latter of whom was serving as OPA treasurer when amending F-01 was last considered by the board in November and December of 2013. Stevens said he wouldn’t accept any change in investment policy that sets
forth the primary and only goal of capital preservation. “We should stick with what we have,” he said. Clarke echoed Stevens’ opposition, adding that, as presented by Collins, the proposed revision in F-01 did not include a proposed investment policy statement or a list of potential investments.
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By ROTA L. KNOTT Contributing Writer hat’s for dinner at the Yacht Club this summer? Bob Thompson, Ocean Pines Association general manager, joked during his June 3 town hall meeting that it could be goose if other methods don’t succeed at keeping Ocean Pines’ waterfowl population under control. Thompson fielded questions from members about various issues in Ocean Pines. One member wanted to know what’s up with the unattractive orange fence at the South Gate pond and when it will be removed. In response, Thompson dodged, saying the OPA has certain conditions to address related to the number of geese that call Ocean Pines ponds their home. Based on a recommendation from the Environment and Natural Assets Advisory Committee, the OPA Board of Directors last year adopted a multipronged approach to goose control in lieu of more lethal options. Those measures include creating a no-mow zone around the South and North Gate ponds, installing a barrier to the water and spraying a chemical deterrent. “The alternative plans were basically killing geese,” Thompson said, adding the board was not willing to make that decision. “So this was an alternative plan that would help mitigate the condi-
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OCEAN PINES
June - Early July 2015
WHAT’S FOR DINNER?
OPA implements multi-tiered approach to goose control at South & North Gate ponds General manager jokes that if methods fail, goose could appear on the Yacht Club menu this summer tions without taking that next step.” He said the plan included creating a 20-foot wide no-mow zone around the ponds in order to allow the grass to grow to a certain height. “The geese don’t like the fact that predators can hide in the grass once it gets to a certain level. So they’re uncomfortable, and they won’t nest or be entering in or out of the water that way.” But at the South Gate the OPA has had problems getting the grass to grow in certain areas. Thus, the orange fence was installed to keep people, bicycles and cars off of an area that has been filled and seeded in an attempt to grow vegetation. Because of the high sand content of the soil around the pond it’s a slow growth process, according to the general manager. “So that orange fence stays until I get that grass to grow properly,” Thompson
said. He didn’t offer a solution or a timetable for removing the fence if the grass simply refuses to grow. One person in the audience at the town hall meeting said that in the meantime the geese are just going around the fence to access the water. Thompson said he knows. “Oh, they’re laughing. I got it.” The audience chuckled when he mentioned the monofilament line that has been strung around the ponds to help keep the geese from waddling down to the water. “I see them bouncing on it. I got it,” Thompson again responded. Finally, a process to keep the goose eggs from hatching was undertaken. The OPA applied a chemical called Flight Control to certain sections of the field around the pond as goose deterrent. He said the geese do not like
the taste of the chemical and therefore will not stay and eat the grass. When audience members made rumblings about the effectiveness of the goose control methods and what may happen in the future, Thompson quipped that he’s “not going to tell you what we might have as a special at the (Yacht) Club one night.” In response to audience rumbling, he said, “That was a joke.” During the town hall meeting, residents asked about the OPA’s plans to deter ticks, mosquitos and other pests from the paths around the pond given the 20foot no-mow zone. One resident asked that the grass be kept five feet from the paths. Thompson suggested she take up the issue with the board, as his instructions are to create the 20-foot deep vegetated area. Another resident wanted to know if the OPA plans to clean up the ponds, once the goose population is reduced to a comfortable number. Similarly, a resident wanted to know if someone is in charge of collecting goose droppings. She said those droppings are dangerous for other animals, such as if they get on a dog’s paws and the animal licks it off. “I don’t have a team that cleans up goose droppings,” Thompson responded. He did say that, aside from the goose issues, the OPA is looking into ways to help improve the water quality and reduce algae in the ponds.
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20 Ocean Pines PROGRESS
OCEAN PINES
June - Early July 2015Ocean Pines PROGRESS
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TOM CETOLA, 81
Goose control
Pines says goodbye to long-time community leader By ROTA L. KNOTT Contributing Writer n Ocean Pines legend, Tom Cetola, died in May, but he left behind a legacy of service to the community that he called home full-time for more than 20 years. Among his many prominent community roles throughout the years were those of Worcester County commissioner and president and director of the Ocean Pines Association. Cetola, 81, passed away on May 24 at Coastal Hospice at the Lake in Salisbury. Born in Allentown, Pa., he is survived by his wife, Mary, and children, Thomas A. Cetola, Jr., Michael A. Cetola, Sr., Mary Beth Watters and Kathleen Cetola. “He was one of the legends in our community,” OPA Director Sharyn O’Hare said of Cetola. “He will be greatly missed.” A full time resident of the area since 1994, Cetola served on the Ocean Pines Association board of directors for four years, including two years as OPA president, was the general manager for a time during a transition in leadership and a member of the OPA Budget and Finance Committee. He was also the liaison for Ocean Pines to the county and state for local funding for hiking, bik-
A
ing and walking trails and served on the Maryland Association of Counties legislative committee. Following years of service within the boundaries of Ocean Pines, Cetola stepped forward in 2002 Tom Cetola seeking election to the Worcester County Board of Commissioners. During his four years as the District 6 commissioner, Cetola proved his ability to think on his feet, listen to what people say and make decisions for the good of his district and everyone in the county. He represented a diverse district that is comprised of part of Ocean Pines, Bishopville and Showell. While in office, Cetola cited reducing the real estate tax for all property owners, a reduction in the Homestead tax for full time residents of the county, increased funding for ambulance service, restoration of the Bishopville Pond, starting the process for construction of
a new Worcester Career and Technology Center and opening a new Ocean City Elementary School among the achievements of which he was most proud. Cetola was also a member of the Atlantic General Hospital Foundation, including being appointed to serve as the chairman of the foundation’s donor recognition committee, which was charged with coordinating and organizing all donor recognition programs. In this capacity, Cetola headed up a membership made up of local residents and professionals. Prior to moving to the area, Cetola served as a director for over five years with the Leukemia Society, began the Father’s Association for two private schools and served as President at both schools, and was the campaign manager for a state representative for 12 years. He was selected while in the Junior Chamber of Commerce as the Spoke Award winner in his first year in the chamber; he also worked as a counselor for the youth of the area in business development, all while a resident of Wilmington in New Castle County, Del. Cetola held a degree in business administration with majors in accounting,
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From Page 20 A few days earlier, Thompson updated the OPA board during a May 28 meeting on implementation of the goose control measures as well. He was more reserved in his comments at that time. There were no jokes about additions to the Yacht Club dinner menu. He told directors that he is following the Sept. 16, 2014 motion to implement the multi-tiered approach to goose control at the ponds. In his general manager’s report he wrote that the OPA has “created the 20-foot no-mow area. The grass is growing; however, it has not substantially grown yet. We have also installed temporary fencing at the South Gate pond to reduce traffic on that area to promote grass growth.” Thompson said members of the advisory committee took on the task of oiling the eggs laid by geese to keep them from hatching. There was some confusion about whether or not staff with state natural resources department was going to perform the work or the OPA, so the oiling happened later than planned. As a result, there have been some goslings hatched this year. But Thompson said it is significantly reduced from previous years.
22 Ocean Pines PROGRESS
OCEAN PINES
June - Early July 2015
OPA FINANCES
OPA misses budget by $78,057 in April Association loses $182,174 for the fiscal year that ended April 30, subject to audit
T
In a year-end forecast issued in February, OPA General Manager Bob Thompson and Controller Art Carmine predicted a modest actual deficit for the year of $24,492, compared to the budgeted surplus of $198,301. Excluding capital additions and Sports Core principal, they only missed that forecast by roughly $5,000. As forecasts go, it’s hard to imagine how it could have come in any closer to the actual result. According to Carmine’s April financial report, the month’s $78,057 negative variance to budget was produced by revenues that were under budget by $118,359 and expenses that were over budget by $5,200. New capital expenditures, which are paid for out of the general fund rather than reserves, were under budget by $45,502. For the fiscal year, revenues were over budget by $40,665 while total expenses exceeded budget by $268,383; while new capital expenditures were under budget by $45,244, resulting in the $182,474 loss for the year. All major amenity departments with
the notable exception of golf lost money in April. As it has throughout all the winter months, the Yacht Club was the amenity department with the most significant loss. The Yacht Club’s negative variance to budget was a whopping $64,930 and its actual loss in April was $35,479. For the year, the Yacht Club lost $189,152. Bright spots were hard to come by in the club’s April financial results. Total revenues of $95,353 missed budget by $30,947, and net revenues of $53,552
missed budget by $33,866. Wages and benefits were over budget by $18,378 and services and supplies missed budget by $14,791. Maintenance and utility expense, on the other hand, were close to budget. In the aggregate, expenses of $89,031 were over budget by $31,064 for the month, suggesting that the new Yacht Club manager, Jerry Lewis, has a tough road ahead to bring expenses in line. The $35,479 actual loss for the month contrasts with what was sup-
Tom Cetola
chairman of the Worcester County northern YMCA committee, Choptank Aware Committee, 589 Task Force, Worcester County Veterans Memorial board, Ocean City Optimist Club, Kiwanis Club of Ocean Pines, the Romeo Men’s Breakfast Club, Knights of Columbus (Grand Knight), and Ocean Pines Golf Club. He was the Ocean Pines Chamber of Commerce’s Citizen of the Year in 20012002. He was a member, Lector, and Eucharistic Minister at St. John Neumann Catholic Church in Ocean Pines.
From Page 21
finance, statistics and economics. He was an owner and vice-president of a specialty printing company before relocating to Ocean Pines and spent more than ten years prior to becoming a commissioner as a Realtor in the Ocean Pines and Ocean City area. Once elected as a Commissioner, he resigned from his real estate career. His civic involvement locally included
q
By TOM STAUSS Publisher he Ocean Pines Association in April recorded a negative operating variance to budget of $78,057, closing out the 2014-15 fiscal year with an operating fund negative variance and loss for the year of $182,474. It actually wasn’t bad as it looks at first blush. All OPA departments in the aggregate lost a relatively modest $29,417 for the year, albeit with a $227,718 negative variance to budget. Actual performance and financial results relative to budget are the two ways in which financial results can be measured. The $182,474 loss for the year includes the $29,417 departmental loss, along with $87,056 in new capital additions and a $66,001 reduction in Sports Core loan principal, both of which adversely affect the bottom line. The loss is subject to adjustment by the year-end audit process that concludes with the official release of the annual audit report at the annual meeting of the OPA in August.
OCEAN PINES OPA finances
June - Early July 2015Ocean Pines PROGRESS
23
From Page 22
As a result of this maintenance surplus, total expenses in golf for the month were only $80,165, which beat the April budget by a whopping $51,118. This line item, like others, is still subject to review by the OPA auditors. The unusual “profit” in maintenance for the month raised some eyebrows among OPA directors and they questioned Thompson about the accuracy of this number during the Board of Directors’ May 28 regular meeting. Thompson said the number reflected a charge-back for chemicals that had been purchased earlier in the year but not used. In response to a question by Director Marty Clarke, Thompson ac-
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knowledged that this line item could exceed budget sometime in the new fiscal year. But he said the golf course is in great shape and has not suffered from any deferred maintenance. Issued prior to the decision to replace Billy Casper Golf with Landscapes Unlimited in February, Thompson’s endof-year forecast had golf losing roughly $90,000 for the year. With the change in management, Thompson more recently backpedaled from that rosy forecast. Even so, the actual $107,649 loss for the year was close to what Thompson and some board members said would be the result during at times contentious debate over whether to retain Billy Casper
Golf. In his May 26 written general manager’s report, Thompson attributed lower-than-budget revenues on rounds of golf that missed budget. He that said rounds on the Ocean Pines golf course were 30,489 in 2014-15, 3,300 better than the previous fiscal year. In April, rounds missed budget by 2,322 and were 419 fewer than April of 2014, according to Thompson. The $107,650 loss for the year represents a $218,399 year-over-year improvement in golf, according to Thompson’s report. In other budget results for April,
q
posed to have been a $29,451 surplus, resulting in the $64,930 negative variance to budget. For the year, the Yacht Club generated $1,441,031 in expenses, $304,899 more than budget. If the Yacht Club ended on a somewhat downbeat note, the same could not be said for golf operations in April, the last month that Billy Casper Golf managed the amenity for the OPA. Golf and related food and beverage operations recorded a $38,550 surplus for the month, while missing its budget by $20,435. The actual surplus was a significant reversal from results in the prior three months. Golf in March lost $49,496, $53,389 in February, and $70,596 in January. The positive result apparently had nothing to with revenues, which totaled $127,597 but missed budget by $77,626 for the month. Net revenues of $118,714, after deductions for merchandise, food and beverage costs, missed budget by $71,554. Savings in labor expenses relative to budget also apparently had relatively little to do with the month’s positive results. Total labor and health benefit costs for the month were $59,827, better than budget by $6,291. The positive result for April can almost be entirely attributed to a single line item, maintenance, which actually cost the OPA nothing for the month other than employee expense, which is accounted for in another line item. Maintenance expense, where the cost of chemical fertilizer normally appears, actually generated a $21,187 surplus for the golf operations, an occurrence that no one can recall has ever happened in the history of Ocean Pines. According to the departmental summary, golf course maintenance was supposed to cost the OPA $36,066 for the month. The difference between the actual $21,187 surplus and the budgeted $36,066 expenditure resulted in a $57,253 positive variance in this particular line item.
24 Ocean Pines PROGRESS
OCEAN PINES
June - Early July 2015
OPA finances From Page 23
aquatics lost $26,531 for the month against a budgeted loss of $31,135, for a positive variance to budget of $4,604. For the year, aquatics lost $168,614, with a $46,648 negative variance. Revenues of $628,799 for the year actually hit budget almost exactly; there was a $19 positive variance to budget in the bottom line results. Expenses, however, exceeded budget by $46,667. Aquatics ended the year on a positive note on the expense side, however, with a $7,168 positive variance to budget. Utility expense was a relatively modest $6,794 compared to the budgeted $15,351, the result of less expensive propane delivered to underground tanks by Sharp Energy, as opposed to propane delivered via pipeline by Sandpiper Energy. Both are subsidiaries of Chesapeake Utilities. Thompson had projected a $173,783 loss in aquatics for the year according to the year-end forecast issued in late February. The final number of $168,614 beat that forecast by roughly $5,000. The three racquet sport departments in aggregate produced a modest surplus by year’s end. Pickleball produced a $9,209 surplus, tennis lost $4,993, and platform tennis lost $223. Status of reserves – The reserve summary released as part of the April financial report shows that the OPA’s allocated reserve balance dropped during
the month and ended for the fiscal year at $3,494,470, a decline from $4,065,822 balance at the end of March. The balance stood at $4,306,867 in February, $4,398,600 in January, $4,483,293 in December, $4,699,394 in November, 4,871,868 in October, $5,128,136 in September, $5,178,302 in August, $5,519,149 in July, $5,786,683 in June and $6,003,165 in May of last year. The annual contribution from assessments traditionally is recorded in May, the first month of the fiscal year. The reserve balance tends to drop throughout the fiscal year reflecting transfers out of reserves to pay for capital expenditures. [See separate story for details] Status of the balance sheet – According to the April 30 balance sheet, the OPA has assets valued at $36,123,146, against liabilities of $10,476,566 and owner equity of $25,646,580. This represents relatively little change in the balance sheet from March 3. Operating cash, however, rose significantly to $4,197,070 while short term investments increased to $4,015,568. In March, operating cash totaled $1,648,757, compared to February’s $1,025,804. Cash on hand was $1.74 million in January and $1,384,425 at the end of December. These kinds of fluctuations are considered normal. The March balance sheet indicated that the OPA had $2,013,757 in short-term investments as of March 31, a sizable reduction from February’s $3,020,750 and January’s $3,019,058 balance.
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26 Ocean Pines PROGRESS
June - Early July 2015
OPA reserves drop to $3.494 million in April By TOM STAUSS Publisher he reserve summary released as part of the April financial report shows that the Ocean Pines Association’s allocated reserve balance dropped sharply to $3,494,470 from the March balance of $4,064,822. Subject to the end of year annual audit, the $3.5 million balance should serve as the starting point for the OPA’s reserve funds at the May 1 launch of the new fiscal year. When the May reserve summary is released in mid-June, the balance will reflect roughly $2.75 million in fresh contributions from assessments, in two funding streams, funded depreciation in the amount of about $1.65 million and another $1.1 million in five-year-plan funding. Funded depreciation appears under the “historical” column as a component of the major maintenance and replacement reserve. As part of the 2015-16 budget process, OPA President Dave Stevens suggested a name change for the five-yearplan funding stream – the legacy fund – so it’s possible, but by no means definite,
T
that the name change will be reflected in a revised reserve summary. The fiveyear plan nomenclature is controversial because it has been in existence for much longer than five years. The reserve balance stood at $4,306,868 in February, $4,398,600 in January, $4,483,293 in December, $4,699,394 in November, $4,871,868 in October, $5,128,136 in September, $5,178,302 in August, $5,519,149 in July, $5,786,683 in June, and $6,003,165 in May of last year.
The erosion is typical as the OPA makes expenditures from the reserves through the year. The May reserve summary reflects the annual contribution from assessments that traditionally is recorded in the first month of the fiscal year. Usually, most of the month-tomonth reduction in the overall reserve balance is attributable to activity in the major maintenance and replacement reserve which as of May 31 last year had a balance of $4,754,531, re-
flecting the full annual transfer from lot assessments into this fund. This reserve explains much of the decrease in the overall reserves from March to April. As of March 31, the balance was $3,693,632, compared to $3,853,356 on Feb. 28 and $3,865,232 on Jan. 30. As of April 30, this reserve had declined to $3,260,900. For the year through April 30, total capital spending from this reserve was $1,820,164, comprised of $1,552,191 from To Page 28
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28 Ocean Pines PROGRESS
OCEAN PINES
June - Early July 2015
Ocean Pines boat club objects to draft Community Hall use policy It’s either pay or donate time to the OPA if board approves Thompson and working group’s proposal Walt Lischak, fleet captain of the boat club, called the proposed use policy “unworkable” for his organization. Depending on how the club would be classified under the proposed new policy, he said club members might have to donate between “1,200 and 2,000 hours of community service annually” to meet the policy requirementgs. The latter is equivalent to a full-time employee working 50 weeks per year, he
said. Lischak, during the public comments segment of the Board of Directors May 28 meeting, wondered who would be supervising all the new volunteers the proposal anticipates. “Who is going to be responsible and liable for injuries and Workman’s Compensation for mostly 60- to 80-year-old volunteers?” he asked. “What if (someone) belongs to multiple clubs? Is there
Reserve funds
$408,795 for the year, with $230,000 in casino impact funds allocated to this reserve in March. The roads reserve had a carryover balance of $67,068 at the beginning of the fiscal year. The bulkhead/waterways reserve had a balance of $912,213 on April 30, a slight decline from the March balance of $928,532, February’s $937,323 and January’s $1,016,914 balance. The future projects reserve had a deficit of $60,462, the golf drainage reserve had a deficit of $643,607 and the operating recovery reserve had a surplus of $135,934. The operating recovery reserve had been zeroed out last year, on the theory
that previous year deficits had been sufficiently offset by subsequent surpluses, but the OPA Board of Directors last year authorized $135,100 from last year’s assessment to be allocated to this previously zeroed out reserve. The purpose of resurrecting this fund and adding money to it purportedly involved the possibility that funds will be needed to address certain tax liability issues in future years. More recently, it’s been suggested that this reserve could serve as a source of funds for any operating deficits that occurred last year or in future years. The OPA did rack up a $182,474 operating deficit for the fiscal year that ended this past April 30.
A
From Page 26 the historical (funded depreciation) component and $267,973 from the five-year plan, most of which related to Yacht Club construction costs. The other OPA reserve funds – bulkheads, future projects, roads, golf drainage, and operating recovery -- were mostly unchanged or only insignificantly changed from earlier months. The roads reserve was the exception with a negative balance of $110,508 as of April 30. On March 31, the roads reserve had a positive balance of $10,524. Capital spending from this reserve totaled
a limit on hours owed, and how do you expect us to coerce our members into putting in the time?” Lischak also questioned whether the working group that Thompson assembled to draft his proposed use policy was truly representative of Ocean Pines, particularly its many organizations. “We are the largest club in Ocean Pines and assuredly were not” asked to serve on the working group or offer views on the proposal before it was unveiled, he said, adding, “Many people feel we paid for these facilities and pay for their continued staff and maintenance. They do not feel that they should pay, in either time or money, to use them.” In a follow-up telephone interview, Thompson said his presentation on May 20 was intended to be a first look only at a work in progress, with plans to meet with groups such as the Ocean Pines Boat Club to go over how the proposed policy would work in practice, before a policy recommendation is finalized. He said the community service option in lieu of payment might turn out to be less onerous than Lischak suggested because many club members may already be donating time for the benefit of the q
By TOM STAUSS Publisher least one major Ocean Pines community group – the 400-member (give or take) Ocean Pines Boat Club – is resisting a proposed new Community Center use policy unveiled during a special meeting May 20 by General Manager Bob Thompson and a group of Ocean Pines residents advising him.
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OCEAN PINES Facility use
June - Early July 2015Ocean Pines PROGRESS
OPA. He said the draft policy is intended to “capture” donated time that already occurs because Ocean Pines is a community that thrives on volunteerism. The proposed policy, not yet in its final form nor anywhere close to approval by the OPA Board of Directors, sets out a structure for charging community and civic groups, social clubs, business and so-called special interest groups, such as political parties, to use the Community Center and, perhaps, the second floor of the Country Club at some point. The proposed policy allows for these group’s members to donate time to the OPA as a way of defraying a portion of or all of the fees. For instance, a community organization, one that has at least 75 percent of its membership Ocean Pines residents, would be given “free” use of the Assateague Room for up to 52 hours per year, with a maximum of four hours per use. But the group would be required to donate to the OPA the equivalent of five hours per group member during the year to qualify for free use, not necessarily requiring the participation of every member. To calculate the community service requirement – the service would have to directly benefit an OPA department, Thompson said – a roster of members
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in volunteer hours, while a $500 to $999 contribution would result in a 15 percent reduction. For groups contributing $100 to $499 the reduction in volunteer hours would be ten percent, while $25 to $99 contributions would reduce volunteer hours by 5 percent. Unlike current board Resolution M-02, which exempts many groups with substantial Ocean Pines memberships from having to pay to use the Community Center, under the proposed new policy no community group would be exempt from either paying fees or donating time to the OPA. An indelicate way of describing the proposed new policy: What’s been “free” use for many groups since the opening of the building less than five years ago no longer would be if a majority of OPA directors find the proposed policy to be reasonable. In a PowerPoint presentation to the board, Thompson defended the proposal as a well thought-out reaction to the large number of requests for use of the Community Center that can’t be accommodated by the OPA’s Parks and Recreation Department. Thompson said the department receives more than 1,800 requests for use per year for the building, many of which can’t be accommodated. He said in effect that M-02 is outdated and that the new policy is needed as a matter of fairness to various groups that
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have been denied access since the building has been functioning. The proposal suggests that the general manager is feeling more comfortable offering a fundamental change in policy – a new direction – in a year in which his role has been somewhat eclipsed by a resurgent board. But with directors Tom Terry and Pat Renaud having forged a close working relationship, it no longer seems apparent that a board majority – the bloc of Dave Stevens, Marty Clarke, Jack Collins and Renaud that emerged after last summer’s board election – is predisposed to reject any Thompson policy initiative. If Terry and Renaud agree, it’s likely that directors Sharyn O’Hare and Bill Cordwell will join with Terry and Renaud to forge a new majority. With Clarke and O’Hare leaving the board this August, newly elected directors could dramatically change board dynamics. It’s not clear whether the board will next publicly address the proposed new use policy and will make a decision on it before a new board is seated in August. In remarks after Thompson concluded his presentation, Renaud seemed very complimentary of Thompson and his working group’s efforts in devising the proposed new policy. He also sent an email to Thompson and his board colleagues “apologizing” to the general q
From Page 28
apparently would have to be provided to the OPA. The same requirements would pertain to a civic group, defined as an organization with at least 60 percent of its membership Ocean Pines residents. Organizations would have the ability to self-identify which category – community, civic or social – under which they would operate, subject to verification by the OPA Parks and Recreation Department Social groups, defined as those whose memberships are at least 75 percent Ocean Pines residents, would only have to donate to the OPA the equivalent of three hours per year per member to use the Assateague Room, but would be limited to three hours per use rather than the four hours allowed for community and civic groups. The OPA board and OPA advisory committees would be given free use of the Marlin Room. But business groups and special interest groups apparently would not be given the option of donating time to the OPA. They would be required to pay for use, in much the way that many do already. The proposed policy makes it clear that any direct monetary contributions to the OPA would result in a reduction in the volunteer hours required. For instance, contributions of $1,000 or more would result in a 20 percent reduction
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30 Ocean Pines PROGRESS Facility use
OCEAN PINES
June - Early July 2015
From Page 29 manager for what Renaud apparently regarded as rude interruptions by Stevens and Clarke during the general manager’s presentation. Whether this means in the end that he will support a change in policy requiring fees or donated time to use the Community Center remains to be seen. Stevens has already positioned himself as a skeptic. He pointed out during Thompson’s presentation, and reiterated the point after the meeting, that the proposal was not generated by any specific request by any OPA director or the board as a group. Instead, it percolated up from staff and was developed by a group of individuals who were neither representing an official Ocean Pines advisory committee nor appointed by the board. At the same time, he said that the general manager has the right to talk to anyone he pleases and to obtain counsel from them. Cognizant that his working group might be criticized if it’s just a handful of his favored advisors, Thompson twice expanded the group from its original core of Sonya Bounds, the OPA’s parks and recreation director; Jessica Conway, a department employee; Carol Ludwig, a candidate for the OPA board this sum-
mer; and Thompson. The initial group was expanded to include Carol Quinto, Barbara Kissel, Frank Creamer and Marie Gilmore. More recently it was expanded yet again, to include Barbara Coughlan, Grace Smearman, Linda Sirianni, Phil Quito, Pat Gibbons, Dick Ziegler, Lynn Gibbons, Katie Goetzinger and Debbie Donahue. That’s a total of 17 individuals. Another possible skeptic of the proposal is Collins, who said recently that his email has been running mostly negative since initial reports about the proposed policy were published in local weeklies. Even Terry, who normally tries to find ways to be supportive of Thompson initiatives, had some difficulties with what the working group proposed. He noted the proposal’s omission of charities as a group in the list of Community Center users. Thompson said the working group is still wrestling with that but he later said that one notable local example of a charity, Anna Foultz’ Starr Charities, could be classified as a special interest group, which, according to a chart in the written version of the proposed use policy, would not have the option of donating time to the OPA even if it wanted to or could. Business groups and special interests would be required to pay for
Kiwanis donation
Ocean Pines Department of Parks and Recreation Supervisor of Recreation Katie Goetzinger (left) accepts two donations from Kiwanis Club of Greater Ocean Pines - Ocean City from President Carolyn Dryzga. The $500 check is for the department’s Summer Day Camps Program and the other $350 check is for the Ocean Pines Thursday Summer Concerts in the Park. use, as many now already do. The proposed use policy gives each group a right to self-identify, subject to validation by staff, but a group like Starr Charities does not seem to fall easily into any of the categories – including community, civic, social, business, and
special interest. Terry and others also raised the issue of what would happen if a community organization, having pledged a certain amount of donated time to qualify for a fee waiver, falls short of the commitment made.
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OCEAN PINES
June - Early July 2015Ocean Pines PROGRESS
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Seven candidates running for OPA board Three former directors among those running to fill two vacancies By TOM STAUSS Publisher even candidates are competing for two open seats on the Board of Directors to replace Sharyn O’Hare and Marty Clarke, who are not seeking reelection in this summer’s Ocean Pines Association election. Candidates who filed well before the deadline in early May were former director Ray Unger along with Slobodan Trendic and Tom Herrick. Unger was defeated for reelection in his most recent bid and also was an also-ran in the Republican primary for District 5 county commissioner last year. Trendic is a 30-year information technology executive who first emerged on the scene about a year ago as a critic of what he regarded as an overly generous employment contract for General Manager Bob Thompson. In a paid political ad placed in this edition of the Progress and in interviews, Trendic says he favors outsourcing certain OPA functions such as ac-
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counting, as well as refurbishing bridges and entrances into Ocean Pines. He opposes what he calls a pattern of wasteful spending and raising annual assessments and amenity fees, at the same time he supports reducing OPA reserves until such time as there is a capital improvement plan in place. Herrick is a former police investigator with the New York State Police. He’s an advocate of Ocean Pines amenities – a member of both the golf and racquet sport clubs – who nonetheless says he’s had a problem with how the amenities have been managed by the OPA. Trendic and Herrick have been endorsed by Clarke, who says they meet his criteria as fiscal conservatives and are likely to favor strong board oversight of Thompson. Four other candidates emerged shortly after the filing deadline. The slate includes two former OPA directors, Terri Mohr, a health care administrator, and Bill Zawacki, a 35-year veteran of Xerox. Mohr, who served two of her three years on the board as the OPA treasurer and one year as secretary, was defeated for reelection last summer. Zawacki served a three-year term beginning in 2006, serving as treasurer, president
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Board candidates: (top row) Tom Herrick, Carol Jacobs, Carol Ludwig, and Terri Mohr; (bottom row) Slobodan Trendic, Ray Unger and Bill Zawacki. and vice-president. He did not seek re-election in 2009. Zawacki also has emerged as a Thompson critic, telling a local weekly recently that “I don’t like a lot of things he’s done.” Although Zawacki and Clarke did not get along when both served together on the board, Zawacki, too, can legitimately run as a fiscal conservative and as someone who wants to keep a tight rein on the general manager.
Somewhat ironically, given past differences with Clarke, he endorsed a failed motion offered by Clarke during the May board meeting that would have directed Thompson to propose options for reducing deficits at the Yacht Club, including its possible closure during the colder months of the year. At the May 28 board meeting, during the public comments segment, Zawacki To Page 33
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June - Early July 2015
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June - Early July 2015Ocean Pines PROGRESS
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OPA election
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From Page 31 said the motion, which failed on a 6-1 vote, could have been amended to make it more acceptable while preserving its primary objective, reining in deficits at the Yacht Club. Zawacki also use the occasion of board meetings in March and April to criticize the meeting agenda format that included the public comments segment after board votes. As a result, at the May meeting, public comments were moved up earlier in the meeting. He thanked Stevens and board secretary Pat Renaud for the change, and also facetiously commended Thompson for the new hardwood floor in the Community Center’s Assateague Room. The other two candidates running for the board are Carol Ludwig, a former executive director of the Ocean Pines Chamber of Commerce, and lawyer Cheryl Jacobs. Ludwig is active in local and regional branches of the Sweet Adeline’s choral group. Ludwig is a member of the Thompson-appointed task force that is attempting to draw up a new use policy for the Ocean Pines Community Center. She is a previous board candidate, having run unsuccessfully in the mid-2000s.
Giving back
At its general membership meeting on May 7, the Women’s Club of Ocean Pines presented $3,300 in college scholarships and $2,000 to community organizations that provide services to Ocean Pines residents. Scholarships were awarded to Teri Adelhardt, Gabrielle Evans and Danielle Gelinas from Stephen Decatur High School in recognition of their academic achievements, extra-curricular involvement and dedication to the community. Donations were presented to Ocean Pines EMS, Ocean Pines Police Department, Ocean Pines Recreation & Parks Department, Coastal Hospice, McGuffey Literacy Program, Mid-Atlantic Symphony Student Outreach, Women Supporting Women, Worcester County Veterans Memorial and Worcester GOLD. Pictured are Mary Stevens (MSO), Katie Goetzinger (Ocean Pines Recreation & Parks Department), Madonna Brennan (Women Supporting Women), Claire Otterbein (Worcester GOLD), Lou Etta McClaflin (McGuffey Literacy Program) and Marie Gilmore (Worcester County Veterans Memorial) receiving donations from Women’s Club President Pat Addy (left) and Treasurer Jeanie Christie (right).
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34 Ocean Pines PROGRESS
June - Early July 2015
OCEAN PINES/WORCESTER COUNTY
Tea and fashion show
The United Methodist Women and the Shepherd’s Nook of Community Church at Ocean Pines presented their annual Tea & Fashion Show May 5th to a full house of nearly 200 guests. This year’s theme was “Gifts That Keep on Giving” and featured models wearing clothes and accessories available for sale at bargain prices at the Shepherd’s Nook after the show. The fashion show has become a hit since its inception with tickets sold out within days of going on sale. All proceeds from ticket sales go to the United Methodist Committee on Relief that provides disaster relief worldwide. Profits from the silent auction and sales at the Nook that afternoon will be used to support outreach to those in need in our community. Pictured are this year’s models and show organizers.
From Page 33 She also had a long career with Verizon. Jacobs has had two distinct careers, 23 years in the telecommunications industry before going to law school later in life. For the past eight years, she has been working as a lawyer helping custodial parents collect child support, establish paternity, modify orders and process collections from worker’s compensation settlements. She teaches business law in the spring and fall semesters at Del. Tech., in Georgetown, Del. In an email to the Progress, she said her “one and only agenda in seeking to fill one of the vacancies on the board is to protect my investment in this great community, as well as for everyone else who owns property here … I am running as a fresh face who brings a lot of meaningful experience” to the role. The election is shaping as the second consecutive one in which the role of the general manager and his compensation package is likely to divide the candidates and give property owners a real choice in the direction of the community. It has already revealed a split in the majority bloc that seemingly had emerged after last summer’s election. Stevens and Renaud had run as a defacto team endorsed by STOP (Stop Taxing Ocean Pines), an organization started years ago by Clarke and that occasionally reappears to weigh-in on political, referendum or election campaigns. Both Stevens and Renaud won partly on the strength of STOP’s campaign on their behalf last year. Stevens and Renaud now appear on opposite sides in the election jockeying that has occurred so far in this election season. [See article elsewhere in this edition of the Progress for details.]
AROUND THE COUNTY County hikes water and wastewater fees
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orcester County will increase the rates for water and wastewater service in the Ocean Pines Service Area for fiscal year 201516, resulting in a hike of $5 per equivalent dwelling unit each quarter for residential customers. Commercial customers will see a significant bump in their bills with the rate jumping by 5.5 percent. The Worcester County Commissioners on June 2 held a public hearing on the fiscal year 20156 enterprise fund budgets for water and wastewater service areas. The commissioners conducted a public hearing on the proposed operating budgets for the OPSA and the ten other service areas operated by the Worcester County Department of Public Works, Water and Wastewater Division, assessments, user charges and other charges. In addition to user fees, assessments will be levied in the Ocean Pines service area and sub service areas to make debt payments. The quarterly domestic minimum water and sewer charge in the OPSA will increase from $133 to $138. The scale for usage per thousand gallons begins at $1.60 for 10,000 gallons or less for water and wastewater usage. The county will also hike the rate structure for commercial users in the Ocean Pines Service Area. The cost is based on the number of EDUs for each commercial property and an average usage of 10,000 gallons per month in a building with 18 fixtures. The cost will range from one EDU would be $158 to 25 or more at $528.
Along with the user fees, assessments will be levied in some service areas in Ocean Pines. Standard assessments for debt service in the OPSA are $54 per equivalent dwelling unit per quarter. The South Ocean Pines Sub-Area rate for debt service is $30 per equivalent dwelling unit each quarter. A $13 per EDU fee will be levied on all other customers connected to the OPSA who do not pay the regular EDU charge in order to help cover the cost of a 2014 bond issue for overall system improvements. All assessments are made on an equivalent dwelling unit basis. An EDU is a measurement that is approximately the same amount of water and sewer flow at an average single family residence. The purpose of EDU assessments in the service area or sub-area is to collect funds to pay any debt related to the acquisition or construction of sanitary facilities. The OPSA’s total revenue is budgeted at $6.18 million for FY 16, including $5.57 million in charges for water and wastewater service, $75,000 in penalties and interest, $540,212 in other revenue and transfers from reserves.
County may abolish Shoreline Commission
Questioning its usefulness in reviewing applications for projects and construction along the waterways, the Worcester County Commissioners are considering doing away with the Shoreline Commission. A public hearing will be held on the proposal June 16.
The Shoreline Commission, a seven member commission, was formed in the 1970s to help manage the rapid development along the County’s shoreline. This Commission makes rulings on all work completed channelward of the mean high water line on all bodies of water in Worcester County. The commission reviews shoreline construction projects like soft shorelines, rip rap, docks, piers and boatlifts. It reviews cases for their environmental impact, navigational impact, recreation potential, commercial benefit to the county, impact to the neighborhood and property values and any other matters as the commission may deem appropriate. “It is clear that the functions and duties of the Shoreline Commission are no longer necessary for proper issuance of shoreline construction permits,” County Attorney Sonny Bloxom said in a memo to the commissioners. That process is mostly handled by the staff of the county’s Environmental Programs department with the Shoreline Commission being a minor player in the process, Bloxom said. To abolish the Shoreline Commission, the county has to amend the section of its code that relates to construction along shorelines.
Thomas retires as library director
Worcester County Library Director Mark Thomas will retire on June 19 after more than 20 years in the position.
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OPA election
OCEAN PINES/WORCESTER COUNTY
June - Early July 2015Ocean Pines PROGRESS
New Chamber executive director
Sports Core to host swim lesson event
The Ocean Pines Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors in early May welcomed Ginger Fleming as the Chamber’s new executive director. An Ocean Pines resident, she served as membership coordinator since January 2015. Ginger brings 13 years of sales and management experience to her new role, which she began on May 11.
The Sports Core Pool, located at 11143 Cathell Road in Ocean Pines, will be a host facility for this year’s World’s Largest Swimming Lesson on Thursday, June 18, from 10-10:30 a.m. The nation’s top water safety and training organizations are joining forces to present this event to build awareness about the vital importance of teaching children to swim to help prevent drowning. Ocean Pines Swim Academy instructors, led by Michelle Hitchens, will be conducting the 30-minute group lesson. Water parks, pools and other aquatic facilities around the globe will host lessons simultaneously in an attempt to break the Guinness World Record. This community event is free and open to the public; registration at 40-6415255 is suggested. Swimming is a life-saving skill for children and a vital tool to prevent drowning, the second leading cause of unintended, injury-related death for children ages 1-14.
AROUND THE COUNTY From Page 34 The Board of Trustees of the Worcester County Library has appointed Jennifer Ranck as acting director for the library system, beginning June 20. Ranck, the library’s deputy director since August 2013, also manages the Ocean City Branch library, a role she will give up with the onset of her new position. She directed the Somerset County Library System from 2009 to 2013 and before that was the training coordinator for the Eastern Shore Regional Library, based in Salisbury. Thomas has served as library director since 2004.
Challenger appointed to heritage authority
Worcester County Tourism Director Lisa Challenger was appointed to the Maryland Heritage Areas Authority by Governor Larry Hogan and confirmed by the Maryland Senate. Challenger was selected for her tourism expertise. The MHAA governs the Maryland Heritage Areas program and is housed within the Maryland Department of
Planning. MHAA provides targeted financial and technical assistance within thirteen locally designated Heritage Areas, each of which has a distinct focus or theme that represents a unique aspect of Maryland’s character. Together, MHAA, the Heritage Areas and local partners support the economic well-being of Maryland’s communities by promoting, sustaining and creating place-based experiences for visitors and residents alike. MHAA members are committed to effectively measuring program performance through annual evaluation of Heritage Area management entity effectiveness and overall program impact in accordance with recommendations in the Authority’s strategic plan. Challenger was instrumental in developing the Lower Eastern Shore Heritage Area management plan and helping to acquire the state certification necessary for state funding. “We are extremely pleased that Director Challenger was named to the MHAA,” Worcester County Commissioner President Jim Bunting said. “Her leadership, her promotion of heritage tourism and her partnership building attitude make her a true asset.”
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Pinesteppers’ graduation
On the last Wednesday of April, the square dancers of the Pinesteppers held a celebration in honor of the three students who had completed instruction in the choreography of modern western square dancing. A pot luck supper was held followed by the graduation event. Pictured are club caller Dennis O’Neal with graduating students Greg Vernicek, Jeanette Lyons, and Kathy Feldman. The Pinesteppers meet every Wednesday at the Ocean Pines Community Center at 7 p.m. New members are welcome.
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June - Early July 2015
County approves 6.5 cent property tax increase, half percent hike in income tax Decline in assessable base made increase impossible to avoid, commissioners say
By ROTA L. KNOTT Contributing Writer p, up and away – that’s what Worcester County tax payers will be seeing happen to their annual property tax bills in fiscal year 2016 as officials voted in June to approve an operating budget that includes an increase in the tax rate. The Worcester County Commissioners on June 2 passed a $182 million spending plan that increases the real property tax rate to 83.5 cents per $100 of assessed value from the current 77 cents. The increase will generate additional net property taxes of $9.1 million to help cover a budget shortfall. The commissioners concluded that the property tax increase is necessary because since Fiscal Year 2009, the county’s assessable base has declined $5.3 billion dollars or 26 percent. To generate additional revenue, the commissioners also voted to increase the local income tax rate from 1.25 percent to 1.75 percent beginning Jan. 1, 2016. Revenues are anticipated to increase by $2.2 million over the current year based on actual receipts. The FY 16 operating budget reflects an increase in county spending of $4.46 million, or 2.5 percent more than the FY15 budget. The original requests presents by county department and other organizations and agencies funded by the county totaled $189.8 million. The county had planned to use budget stabilization funds to supplement county revenues in FY 16 but the commissioners re-evaluated that plan based upon current multi-year revenue projections. As a result, the commissioners determined that the useful life of these funds must be extended. The stable but flat economic growth projection and property tax estimates, along with the tax increases, will result in the need for these budget stabilization funds through FY 18 and beyond to supplement other revenues and satisfy projected increases in expenditures. In order to provide a balanced budget, the county budget transfers current year budget surplus funds to the fund balance. This transfer of $1.48 million will increase the budget stabilization fund for a balanced FY2016 budget. The county’s allocation for the Board of Education’s operating budget is $79.17 million, an increase of $1.2 million more than the current year adopted
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budget. School construction debt is paid by the county on behalf of the Board of Education but it is not reflected in the school system’s budget. However, it is included in the county’s operating budget. As a result the school system’s approved operating budget is $79.17 million plus debt service of $10.92 million, which totals $90.09 million or 49.4 percent of the county’s total estimated revenue. As part of the school system’s allocation, the commissioners approved an increase of $145,613 in funding for enrollment of 12 additional students to meet the maintenance of effort level for FY 16 at the per pupil funding rate of $12,134.40. The budget also includes an increase of $793,000 for escalation of health insurance costs. The total FY 16 Worcester County Education funding per student, based on the estimated student population of 6,654, equates to $16,483 per student. That does not include restricted program funds of $12.16 million from the state and federal agencies. The county’s funding allocation retains starting teacher pay at $42,433. It did not include cost of living, step increment or longevity pay for school system employees. The Board of Education is
not happy with funding levels and has been considering other cuts in order to give employees a pay raise. The homestead dredit cap remains unchanged at 3 percent and is estimated to be $1,248,609 for the county’s qualified principal resident homeowners effective July 1, 2015. Other local tax revenues will decrease by a total of $250,000, based on an increase of $250,000 in transfer tax and a decrease in recordation tax of $500,000 based on current year estimates. State shared revenues are budgeted to increase by $5,917 due to a slight increase in Highway User Taxes. The distribution from Liquor Control Department decreased $186,629 based on anticipated revenue reductions. Licenses and permits increased $126,550 because of increased estimates for occupational and environmental permits for $49,500 and increased estimates of $50,000 for liquor licenses at the current fees. Federal grants are projected to have an overall increase of $148,330. This account category includes an additional $127,800 in Homeland Security grants and $20,492 for the emergency shelter grant. State grants increased $593,524
WORCESTER COUNTY largely due to additional funds of $366,154 for the state aid for bridges, the state reinstatement of the county’s share of state park receipts with decreases to grants for tourism, waterway improvements and Program Open Space. Charges for services decreased by $307,635 in the budget mainly due to decreases for Jail use fees. Interest on investments decreased $75,000 because of lower outstanding note balances and rates of return below 1 percent. Other funds decreased by $499,352 based on the transfer in of bond premium proceeds. Funds will be used for 2014 bond interest expense payments and various bond related expenses. Casino local impact grant funds show an increase of $2,700 for the debt payment for the Worcester Career and Technical High School in FY 16. Transfers in of existing budget stabilization funds decreased by $6.39 million due to the use of increased revenues from property and income taxes. This will extend the useful life of the budget stabilization fund to cover revenue shortfalls. Included in the budget was funding increases of $245,900 for the Sheriff’s Department for new computers for office staff and road patrol, five replacement patrol vehicles and building improvements to dog kennels for safety and weather protection. The jail budget increased by $154,683 for salaries for four new correctional officers for inmate coverage and regulating agencies, and the inmate medical contract. Volunteer ambulance company grants increased by $270,476 due to increases for the funding formulas. Roads division funding increased by $1.9 million for blacktop materials and bridge replacement, for which the state will reimburse 80 percent, for dump trucks with snow plows, and heavy equipment.
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OCEAN PINES Board intrigue From Page 1 gave his word that he would give his full support to Slobodan’s candidacy for the board of directors this year, he has now reneged,” Clarke told the Progress. “He has said that he will not support any individual candidate or candidates for the board. He claims that to do so would be a direct violation of our by-laws, which is pure horse-hockey.” Clarke said it was his understanding that Renaud hosted at least two of this summer’s three female candidates “to discuss how he might assist and support them with the upcoming election. I have also been told that Tom Terry and Bill Cordwell were present. At least two of these candidates are strong Bob Thompson allies,” Clarke said, probably referring to Mohr and Ludwig. The outspoken OPA director said he was not surprised by “Renaud’s behavior after working together on the most recently approved budget.” He said it was Renaud’s vote, siding with Terry, Cordwell, and Sharyn O’Hare, “that passed the budget and funded another $1 million dollars into the already bloated $6 million dollar slush fund,” a reference to OPA allocated reserve funds. “If these guys get even one more big spender mentality elected to our board, you can kiss that fund good- bye,” Clarke said. The $1 million is the so-called fiveyear-plan revenue stream that remains largely intact in this year’s approved budget. The OPA reserves stood at $3.5 million at the end of April, but will be replenished in the amount of roughly $2.65 million in new assessment dollars in the May reserve summary, the first month of the new fiscal year, when it is released later in June. In response to Clarke and Stevens, Renaud said their conclusions about his intentions in this year’s elections are wrong. While confirming that he had invited Jacobs and Ludwig to his home – Mohr showed up uninvited, according to Renaud – he said the purpose of the meeting was not to engage in election strategy but instead was to share “with them information about what I did to get elected” last summer. He said he had not invited Mohr because she had already run twice for the board and probably didn’t need any pointers. He said that Jacobs and Ludwig had reached out to him to request a meeting and that, as board secretary, he felt he was obligated to meet with them. He said he had had a similar “informational” meeting with Tom Herrick, another candidate who is running for the board this summer, but that he has not endorsed anyone. He said OPA bylaws as he interprets them preclude him as the board secretary from endorsing anyone. Herrick’s meeting was at the Ocean Pines 7-Eleven restaurant, with no other director present.
June - Early July 2015Ocean Pines PROGRESS Renaud confirmed that he had promised Trendic that he would support his candidacy last summer but that he “can’t give him my endorsement” because of the way he reads the by-laws. He said he informed Trendic of that in recent email, and that Stevens, copied in that email exchange, wrote back advising him that he had misinterpreted the by-laws. Stevens told the Progress that the bylaws do not require the board secretary to be neutral in a board election. He said the secretary’s only role in accordance with Section 5.012 (c) and (d) of the bylaws is to confirm a candidate is in good standing, an Ocean Pines property owner with paid up in lot assessments and without any “continuing violation” of OPA regulations. Renaud reads the bylaws to say that as board secretary he was “required to support” each candidate’s eligibility, Stevens said, adding that the bylaws clearly state that it’s OPA records that must support eligibility, not the board secretary. Stevens said it’s the board member’s call whether he or she will support or endorse a candidate for the board. Renaud said that in his recent e-mail communication with Stevens, the board president “agreed with me that as a director I have every right not to endorse someone. He just didn’t like my reasons,” specifically Renaud’s interpretation of the bylaws. Trendic expressed disappointment in Renaud’s decision not to endorse him while apparently using a “wrong interpretation” of the bylaws as “an excuse to justify breaking a promise.” Trendic said that Renaud never reached out to offer election information or any other assistance, so he took the initiative, only to be rebuffed in an
email response citing the OPA bylaws. “I asked him to support me, in the same way I supported him last summer,” Trendic said. “I asked him to reciprocate and to keep his promise.” Trendic describes himself as “absolutely disappointed” that Renaud, in Trendic’s view, is failing in his role as board secretary and in a test of “personal character and integrity. “If as secretary, he is citing the bylaws incorrectly, using them as an excuse not to help my candidacy, as he promised to do, then I’m concerned about his ability to execute as secretary,” Trendic said. “It’s a matter of personal integrity if he doesn’t keep a promise to me” while “selectively using” an incorrect reading of the bylaws to help others running for the board. Renaud pushed back against the notion that he has taken sides in the election. He said he hasn’t decided who he and his wife will vote for in the election and that the candidates’ forum later in June will help him with that decision. But he made it clear that he will not endorse anyone, no matter that some people seem to believe he’s already provided assistance that is tantamount to an endorsement in deed if not in word. “People can say what they want,” he said. “I know what I said” in the meeting with the three candidates. “I made it clear I will not be endors-
37
Stevens said the bylaws do not require the board secretary to be neutral in a board election... (and) that it’s the director’s call about whether to support or endorse a candidate. ing anyone,” he said again. Renaud also denied there is any quid pro quo involved that would guarantee him election to the OPA presidency in the fall. He said he wasn’t sure he would be interested in the position but would decide once the results of the election in August are known. One thing seems clear: It’s probably unlikely that he will cast another vote for Stevens as president. “It’s safe to say I’m not happy with Dave Stevens,” he said. “That’s as far as I will go” in commenting on the matter. He added that whoever ends up as president will depend a great deal on who wins the election this summer. On that point, everyone agrees.
Board ballot positions drawn The candidates’ drawing that determines the order of the candidate names on the ballot and order of seating at the Ocean Pines Association Forum was conducted on June 11. The results: Terri Mohr, followed by Cheryl Jacobs, Ray Unger, Thomas Herrick, Bill Zawacki, Carol Ludwig and Slobodan Trendic
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38 Ocean Pines PROGRESS
LIFESTYLES
June - Early July 2015
Saturday, June 13 Ocean Pines Anglers Club monthly meeting, 9 a.m., Ocean Pines Library. Guest speaker Scott Lennox, of “Hooked On OC” and website FishinOC. com. All welcome. World Wide Knit in Public Day, Ocean Pines Farmers Market, White Horse Park, Ocean Pines, free, no registration required. Bring own lawn chair or blankets. Sunday, June 14 Sharing Sunday, 1-3 p.m., Ocean Pines Southside fire station, sponsored by Democratic Women’s Club of Worcester County. Collection of non-perishable food, toiletries and paper products, to be shared with a local food ministry. 410641-8553. Monday, June 15 Democratic Women’s Club spring luncheon and silent auction, 11:30 a.m., Lighthouse Sound restaurant. Guest speaker County Commissioner Diana Purnell. Information and reservations, 814-322-2119. Tuesday, June 16 Worcester County ommission for Women, monthly meeting, 5-6:30 p.m., Worcester County Board of Education, 6270 Worcester Highway, Newark.
HAPPENINGS Promoting social, education, and economic equality for women in Worcester County. L. Eloise Henry-Gordy at 443235-3124. Thursday, June 18 Pine’eer Craft Club monthly meeting, 9:45 a.m., Ocean Pines Community Center. Refreshments, meeting, marble necklace craft. Sharon, 410-2083032. Worcester County Tea Party speaker series, Ocean Pines library, 7 p.m. Topics: The Lies and Agenda Behind the Climate Change / Global Warming Movement, Chopank Electric smart meters. Speakers: Pastor John Abent, Mike Wheatley, President & CEO Choptank Electric Cooperative, Francis Ruffo, Director for the Ocean Pines District, Choptank Electric Cooperative. Free, open to all. Saturday, June 20 Three Tenors and Diva concert, 7:30 p.m., Ocean City Performing Arts Center. Featuring Antonia Buonauro, Thomas Bethman, James Gafgen, diva Donna Buonauro, and critically acclaimed soprano Barbara Wayman.
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Tickets by calling Ticketmaster at 800551-7328 or at the Ocean City Convention Center box office from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Sponsored by the Community Church at Ocean Pines. Teach a kid to fish event, sponsored by the Ocean Pines Anglers Club, 11 a.m., Veterans Memorial Park, South Gate Pond, Ocean Pines. Beverages and bait provided. Free rod and reel drawing. Walt Boge, 410-208-2855.
Chip Bertino, on his first year in office, and a representative from Coastal Hospice, who will discuss updates on the plans and progress for the Berlin Hospice residence facility. $17 per person. Doors open 10:30 a.m. Reservations, Ann Lutz, 410-208-9767, annlutz@verizon.net.
Wednesday, June 24 Ocean Pines Association, candidates forum, featuring candidates for Board of Directors in this summer’s OPA election, 6 p.m., Ocean Pines Community Center. Hosted by OPA Elections Committee.
Sunday, June 28 Ocean Pines Golf Members Council social, 3 p.m. shotgun start, Ocean Pines Golf and Country Club. $22, nine holes of golf, light fare and prizes; $14 light fare only. Four-person team event; sign up as a foursome, twosome or single. Each team must be mix-gendered. Team prizes and closest-to-the-pin prizes for men and women. Light fare in the Tern Grille; cash bar. Benefits Junior Golf Scholarship Fund. 410-641-5242 or visit the Pro Shop.
Thursday, June 25 Ocean Pines Association, Board of Directors meeting, 3 p.m., Ocean Pines Community Center. Agenda posted on OPA Web site a few days prior to meeting. Republican Women of Worcester County, luncheon meeting, 11 a.m., Ruth’s Chris Steak House. Guest speakers: Worcester County Commissioner,
Monday, June 29 Wilmington Veterans Administration mobile outreach clinic, 10 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., Selbyville Fire Company, 30 North Main Street, Selbyvill. Services for military veterans, including primary care services, immunizations, lab services, assistance with eligibility and enrollment questions, and mental To Page 40
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June - Early July 2015Ocean Pines PROGRESS
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40 Ocean Pines PROGRESS
LIFESTYLES
June - Early July 2015
HAPPENINGS From Page 38 health referrals. Michele Kuhn, 302250-2991, michele.kuhn@va.gov. Saturday, July 11 Kiwanis pancake breakfast, Ocean Pines Community Center, 8-11 a.m., $5 adults, $3 children under 12. Pancakes, sausages, fruit cup, orange juice, coffee and tea. Tickets at the door or in advance. Carry-out available. Ralph Chinn, 410-208-6719. Benefits community youth. Kiwanis bingo night, Ocean Pines Community Center, 5 p.m. doors open, games start 6:30 p.m. Tickets $20 in advance, $25 at the door. Refreshments for sale including hot dogs, pulled pork sandwiches, soft drinks and baked goods. $200 games, $50 games, door prizes, pull tab chances and a 50-50 drawing. Mary Lee at 410-208-4131 or Mary at 301537-8455 for advance tickets. Saturday, July 25 Ocean Pines Boat Club Boat Parade, noon, Swim and Racquet Club. Award ceremony 4 p.m,., White Horse Park pavilion. Rain Date Sunday, July 26. $10 individual entries, $25 commercial entries. This year’s theme: Yore, as in years gone by. Cash prizes will
Family swim
George Ball photo
A scene of tranquility in the cove near the Ocean Pines Yacht Club and Marina Village.
be awarded for best in parade, best theme, best costumes, best design and most active or mechanical. Boats may not be bigger than 26 feet. Fred Heinlen, 410-208-3165, fheinlen5@ msn.com or Steven Stein, 410-6418930, spikerex@aol.com.
Friday, Aug. 7 Mary Mac Foundation 4th Annual Memorial Golf Tourney, Ocean Pines Golf and Country Club, 7:30 a.m., registration and breakfast, 9 a.m. shotgun start, 2 p.m. lunch, awards and silent auction. $110 per golfer, $400 per foursome, $100 tee sign sponsorship. Don McMullen,
443-388-2941, or Tim McMullen, 443827-2091. Silent auction information, Susan Wojciechowski, 410-925-0472. Ongoing Free platform tennis clinics, Saturdays at noon, Manklin Meadows tennis complex. Bring sneakers, the rest is provided.
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June - Early July 2015Ocean Pines PROGRESS
41
FORECLOSURE SALE OF REAL ESTATE IN CAPTAIN’S COVE
June 19, 2015, 1 PM
To be held at the Marina Club in Captain’s Cove Subdivision 3323 Dock Court, Greenbackville, VA 23356 The following properties will be auctioned:
Section/Lot: 1-0568, Captain’s Cove Tax Map No. 005A10100056800 Assessed Value: $5,000.00
Section/Lot: 14-0067, Captain’s Cove Tax Map No. 005A80100006700 Assessed Value: $1,000.00
Section/Lot: 16-0086, Captain’s Cove Tax Map No. 005A90300008600 Assessed Value: $1,000.00
Section/Lot: 17-0056, Captain’s Cove Tax Map No. 005A90200005600 Assessed Value: $1,000.00
Section/Lot: 1-0744, Captain’s Cove Tax Map No. 005A10100074400 Assessed Value: $15,000.00
Section/Lot: 15-0014, Captain’s Cove Tax Map No. 005A80200001400 Assessed Value: $1,000.00
Section/Lot: 16-0089, Captain’s Cove Tax Map No. 005A90300008900 Assessed Value: $1,000.00
Section/Lot: 17-0057, Captain’s Cove Tax Map No. 005A90200005700 Assessed Value: $1,000.00
Section/Lot: 1-1034, Captain’s Cove Tax Map No. 005A10100103400 Assessed Value: $202,200.00
Section/Lot: 15-0048, Captain’s Cove Tax Map No. 005A80200004800 Assessed Value: $1,000.00
Section/Lot: 16-0094, Captain’s Cove Tax Map No. 005A90300009400 Assessed Value: $1,000.00
Section/Lot: 17-0058, Captain’s Cove Tax Map No. 005A90200005800 Assessed Value: $1,000.00
Section/Lot: 2-0350, Captain’s Cove Tax Map No. 005A20100035000 Assessed Value: $13,000.00
Section/Lot: 15-0050, Captain’s Cove Tax Map No. 005A80200005000 Assessed Value: $1,000.00
Section/Lot: 16-0100, Captain’s Cove Tax Map No. 005A90300010000 Assessed Value: $1,000.00
Section/Lot: 17-0063, Captain’s Cove Tax Map No. 005A90200006300 Assessed Value: $1,000.00
Section/Lot: 2-0420, Captain’s Cove Tax Map No. 005A20100042000 Assessed Value: $84,900.00
Section/Lot: 15-0073, Captain’s Cove Tax Map No. 005A80200007300 Assessed Value: $1,000.00
Section/Lot: 16-0113, Captain’s Cove Tax Map No. 005A90300011300 Assessed Value: $1,000.00
Section/Lot: 17-0070, Captain’s Cove Tax Map No. 005A90200007000 Assessed Value: $1,000.00
Section/Lot: 7-0086, Captain’s Cove Tax Map No. 005A60100008600 Assessed Value: $4,000.00
Section/Lot: 15-0082, Captain’s Cove Tax Map No. 005A80200008200 Assessed Value: $1,000.00
Section/Lot: 16-0128, Captain’s Cove Tax Map No. 005A90300012800 Assessed Value: $1,000.00
Section/Lot: 17-0124, Captain’s Cove Tax Map No. 005A90200012400 Assessed Value: $1,000.00
Section/Lot: 7-0088, Captain’s Cove Tax Map No. 005A60100008800 Assessed Value: $4,000.00
Section/Lot: 15-0095, Captain’s Cove Tax Map No. 005A80200009500 Assessed Value: $1,000.00
Section/Lot: 16-0136, Captain’s Cove Tax Map No. 005A90300013600 Assessed Value: $1,000.00
Section/Lot: 17-0150, Captain’s Cove Tax Map No. 005A90200015000 Assessed Value: $1,000.00
Section/Lot: 7-0215, Captain’s Cove Tax Map No. 005A60100021500 Assessed Value: $4,000.00
Section/Lot: 15-0102, Captain’s Cove Tax Map No. 005A80200010200 Assessed Value: $1,000.00
Section/Lot: 16-0138, Captain’s Cove Tax Map No. 005A90300013800 Assessed Value: $1,000.00
Section/Lot: 18-0005, Captain’s Cove Tax Map No. 005A90100000500 Assessed Value: $1,000.00
Section/Lot: 7-0216, Captain’s Cove Tax Map No. 005A60100021600 Assessed Value: $4,000.00
Section/Lot: 15-0132, Captain’s Cove Tax Map No. 005A80200013200 Assessed Value: $1,000.00
Section/Lot: 16-0141, Captain’s Cove Tax Map No. 005A90300014100 Assessed Value: $1,000.00
Section/Lot: 18-0027, Captain’s Cove Tax Map No. 005A90100002700 Assessed Value: $1,000.00
Section/Lot: 13-0190, Captain’s Cove Tax Map No. 005A70100019000 Assessed Value: $1,000.00
Section/Lot: 15-0146, Captain’s Cove Tax Map No. 005A80200014600 Assessed Value: $1,000.00
Section/Lot: 16-0142, Captain’s Cove Tax Map No. 005A90300014200 Assessed Value: $1,000.00
Section/Lot: 13-0203, Captain’s Cove Tax Map No. 005A70100020300 Assessed Value: $4,000.00
Section/Lot: 15-0125, Captain’s Cove Tax Map No. 005A80200012500 Assessed Value: $1,000.00
Section/Lot: 16-0146, Captain’s Cove Tax Map No. 005A90300014600 Assessed Value: $1,000.00
Section/Lot: 14-0007, Captain’s Cove Tax Map No. 005A80100000700 Assessed Value: $1,000.00
Section/Lot: 15-0126, Captain’s Cove Tax Map No. 005A80200012600 Assessed Value: $1,000.00
Section/Lot: 16-0148, Captain’s Cove Tax Map No. 005A90300014800 Assessed Value: $1,000.00
Section/Lot: 14-0012, Captain’s Cove Tax Map No. 005A80100001200 Assessed Value: $1,000.00
Section/Lot: 16-0014, Captain’s Cove Tax Map No. 005A90300001400 Assessed Value: $1,000.00
Section/Lot: 16-0164, Captain’s Cove Tax Map No. 005A90300016400 Assessed Value: $1,000.00
Section/Lot: 14-0021, Captain’s Cove Tax Map No. 005A80100002100 Assessed Value: $1,000.00
Section/Lot: 16-0020, Captain’s Cove Tax Map No. 005A90300002000 Assessed Value: $1,000.00
Section/Lot: 16-0165, Captain’s Cove Tax Map No. 005A90300016500 Assessed Value: $1,000.00
Section/Lot: 14-0025, Captain’s Cove Tax Map No. 005A80100002500 Assessed Value: $1,000.00
Section/Lot: 16-0056, Captain’s Cove Tax Map No. 005A90300005600 Assessed Value: $1,000.00
Section/Lot: 17-0010, Captain’s Cove Tax Map No. 005A90200001000 Assessed Value: $1,000.00
TERMS: Minimum Bids will be announced prior to the start of the auction on the date of sale. Announcements made at auction time take precedence over any print, electronic, or verbal information, including but not limited to the Minimum Bid. Successful bidder will be required to deposit with Trustee a deposit (non-refundable) in an amount equal to Minimum Bid or 10% of successful bid (whichever is greater) in cash or certified funds at time of sale, with the closing to occur within thirty days of the date of said sale. Written one-price bids will be accepted for any of the properties pursuant to the terms set forth in Va. Code § 55-516. There is no warranty relating to right, title, interest, or the like in this disposition. Property is being sold pursuant to Va. Code § 55-516, and title will be conveyed pursuant to statute and subject to all liens or encumbrances as provided in said statute. All information for review by appointment only. Notwithstanding the Minimum Bids announced at the time of sale, the Trustee reserves the right to accept and/or reject all offers. Time is of the essence. Other conditions may be announced at the sale.
Section/Lot: 14-0029, Captain’s Cove Tax Map No. 005A80100002900 Assessed Value: $1,000.00
Section/Lot: 16-0060, Captain’s Cove Tax Map No. 005A90300006000 Assessed Value: $1,000.00
Section/Lot: 17-0044, Captain’s Cove Tax Map No. 005A90200004400 Assessed Value: $1,000.00
Section/Lot: 14-0038, Captain’s Cove Tax Map No. 005A80100003800 Assessed Value: $1,000.00
Section/Lot: 16-0061, Captain’s Cove Tax Map No. 005A90300006100 Assessed Value: $1,000.00
Section/Lot: 17-0054, Captain’s Cove Tax Map No. 005A90200005400 Assessed Value: $1,000.00
TRUSTEE:
Pender & Coward, P.C., 222 Central Park Ave., Virginia Beach, VA
Phone: (757) 490-6261 Email: capcove@pendercoward.com
42 Ocean Pines PROGRESS
CAPTAIN’S COVE
June - Early July 2015
Captain’s Cove puts 60 lots up for foreclosure auction June 19 By TOM STAUSS Publisher he Captain’s Cove property owners association will conduct the latest in a series of foreclosure auctions on delinquent properties, most of which are located in the unbuildable sections 14 through 18, on June 19 at 1 p.m. in the Marina Club’s banquet room. Initially, there were 60 lots whose owners were delinquent on annual POA lot assessments that were scheduled to be sold at auction. The last such auction, conducted for the Cove POA by the Pender and Coward law firm of Virginia Beach, Va., was
T
held last October. A list of properties to be sold appears in this edition of the Progress. If past auctions are any indication, the number of lots to be sold will decline as the day of the auction approaches, as some property owners enter into some sort of arrangement with the POA to pay off their delinquencies. The Cove association likely will acquire most of the properties as a result of the foreclosure process. All but 11 of the lots scheduled to be sold are in the unbuildable sections 14 through 18. The 49 Section 14 through 18 lots to be sold are all appraised at
$1,000. The Cove POA has an announced policy of acquiring as many lots as possible in these sections in the hopes of one day reselling the acreage contained in these sections in a block sale, perhaps to farming interests. Of the 11 lots not in Sections 14 through 18, only 9 are located in buildable sections. The other two are in Section 13, currently lacking roads and utilities but considered developable one day. The two Section 13 lots are appraised at $4,000 and $1,000, respectively. Of the nine buildable lots, three are in Section 1, with one appraised at $5,000, another at $15,000 and a third
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at $202,000. Of the two lots to be sold in Section 2, one is appraised at $13,000 and the other at $84,900. All four lots in Section 7 to be sold are appraised at $4,000. Board targets $1,150 lot assessment– While it’s too early to know for sure, the Cove Association board of directors at its May 11 meeting signaled that the lot assessment for the fiscal year beginning Oct. 1 may increase $100, from the current $1,050 to $1,150. At least, that’s the number that will be included as the board and its financial management company begins the budget preparation process. Cove president Tim Hearn, back in the saddle after recent open heart surgery from which he appears to have recovered, reminded his colleagues that, when the budget for the current fiscal year was completed, “it was with the thought that we would move the number tighter to $1,200” in next year’s budget. He called a $1,200 assessment “the stable assessment number,” what it needs to be to cover annual expenses, build reserves and keep the association in good financial shape. But it’s also a number that comes with some political baggage, as only two years ago the assessment was $950. Unlike in many communities, however, including Ocean Pines, the Cove lot assessment includes membership in and access to all of the amenities – golf, swimming pools, and tennis courts -without the need for property owners to pay additional membership fees. At the golf course, Cove property owners need only pay for carts if they want to ride while playing; walking is optional and is free. Hearn said that by starting with an assessment of roughly $900 per year, fully funding depreciation in the amount of about $360,000 annually, adds $150 to the assessment base. Another $100 would be allocated to roads resurfacing, which he said hasn’t been done in the Cove for about five years; he said at least $125,000 would be used for roads resurfacing next year to deal with potholes and other wear and tear. “I’m suggesting that we direct, in the initial drafts of the budget … to use a $1,150 number on the assessments as they (L&H, the Cove’s financial management firm) build the other numbers,” Hearn said. No director objected to starting with $1,150 as the initial planning number for the assessment next year. It would be payable in two bi-annual installments of $575 each. Aqua comment period ends – The comment period for the pending sale of Captain’s Cove Utility Company assets to Aqua Virginia has closed. The State Corporation Commission had given anyone interested in commenting on the sale until May 12 to post or send their opinions. The SCC is the regulatory agency To Page 44
4243 Captai n ’ s Corri d or, Captain’s Cove -Hidden Treasure on Virginia’s Eastern Shore 302-381-6910 (cell) mugglers Way • $128,700 37059 Neptune Court • $179,900 37129 Wheelhouse Dr. • $189,900 37309 Blackjack Court • $199,500 Greenbackvi l e, VA. 23356 ce) 37309 mugglers Way • $128,700 37059 Neptune Court •888-241-9590 $179,900 37129 Wheelhouse(offi Dr. • $189,900 Blackjack Court • $199,500
June - Early July 2015Ocean Pines PROGRESS
UNDER UNDERCONTRACT CONTRACT
43
UNDER CONTRACT
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My Web site at captainscoveproperties.com Cindy Welsh Captain’s Corridor, Captain’(cell) s Cove -- Hidden4243Treasure on Virginia’s Eastern Shore 302-381-6910
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Ask Me About ... Greenbackville, VA. 23356 Ask Me About Waysite•at $128,700 37129 Wheelhouse Dr. • $189,900 My Web captainscoveproperties.com37059 Neptune Court • $179,900 Cindy AssociWelsh ation... 2247 Smugglers candhwelsh@aol.com UNDER CONTRACT GOLF COURSE UNDER CONTRACT 3844 Captain’s Corridor • $199,500 37453 Beam Court • $274,500 888-241-9590 (offi ce) 3844 Captain’ s Corridor • $199,500 BeamCOURSE Court • $274,500 For A Virtual Tour of Captain’s Cove, Please Visit 37453 UNDER CONTRACT GOLF UNDER CONTRACT
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37453 Beam$5000 Court4/2039 • $255,000 37749 Broadside Drive • $314,900 Wooded $4000 5/19 Wooded WATERVIEW LOTS GOLF COURSE $5000 Wooded $4000 Wooded WATERFRONT REDUCED NEW CONSTRUCTION $5000 8/484/2039 Clearedloaded 4/2092 WATERVIEW LOTS 3BR/2BA3/1623 • 1202 sq. Cleared ft. • Concrete driveway BR5/19 2.5 Wooded BA 1464 sq ft., 2 Car Garage Waterfront Living $18,000 W & S $4000 3BR/2.5 BA 2170 sq ft, Bonus Room 3BR/2BA with upgrades
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37145 Wheelhouse Road • $169,900
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$5000 8/48Wooded, Cleared Septic Approved $4000 Wooded $5000 4/ 2104 9/384/2092 Cleared, Septic Approved 3/1623Cleared ClearedWW&&S S$4000 $18,000 3/1629 $5000 4/ 2104 Wooded, Approved $4000 Cleared, Septic Approved $5000 4/2130 Wooded, SepticSeptic Approved 9/669/38 Cleared, Septic Approved 3/1629Cleared ClearedWW&&S S$4000 3844 Captain’ s Corridor • $199,500 $24,000374533/1628 37453 Beam Court • $274,500 $5000 4/2130 Wooded, $4000 9/66Wooded Cleared, Septic Approved $5250 Court • $274,500 Ask Me About ... S$4000 1/1252 Wooded, W &Septic S Approved 1/471 $24,000 Beam 3/1628 Cleared W&
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3BR/2.5 BA 2170 sq ft, Bonus Room
Your Home
$5250 1/1252 Wooded, &S $4000 1/471 Wooded Your Home UNDER CONTRACT $5500 GOLF COURSE UNDER CONTRACT 5/2403 Wooded, SepticWApproved $4000 4/1964 Wooded AssociCould atioBen Listed $5500 5/2403 Wooded, $4000 4/1964 Wooded Here5/2473 at $4000 $6,000 1/1250 Wooded, W &Septic S Approved $4000 Wooded, Septic Broadside Approved Drive 38020 Sailors Court• $424,752 37330 • $449,900 $6,000 1/1250 Wooded, W & S GOLF COURSE LOTS $4000 5/2473 Wooded, Septic Approved$6000 9/127 Wooded, Septic Approved $4000 9/163 Cleared, Septic Approved WATERFRONT LOTS Lots Starti n g GOLF COURSE LOTS $6000 9/127 Wooded, Septic Approved $9,000 2/379 Cleared, Alt. Septic $4000 9/163 Cleared, Septic Approved $4000 5/2562 Wooded, Septic Approved $6500 7/276 Cleared, Septic Approved $9,000 2/379 Cleared, Alt. Septic Coul d Be Li s ted Here $10,500 2/134 Wooded, Septic Approved $4000 5/2562 Wooded, Septic Approved $6500 7/276 Cleared, Septic Approved at $4000 $10,500 2/134 Wooded, Septic Approved$4000 11/97 Wooded, Septic Approved $7000 9/64 Cleared $4000 11/97 Wooded, Septic Approved $7000 9/64 Cleared $12,000 2/261 Cleared, Septic Approved $12,000 2/261 Cleared, Septic Approved $4000 1/806 Wooded $7000 11/3 Wooded Could Be Listed Here $7000 11/3 Wooded $4000 1/806 Wooded $15,000 2/221 Cleared, Septic Approved $15,000 2/221 Cleared, Septic Approved $4000 11/27 Wooded $7000 11/2 Wooded
INGAbout ... DIRECT Me UNDER CONTRACT GOLF COURSE UNDER CONTRACT Call Cindy Welsh about these and other available 3properties in Captains Cove TINGAssociation BAYDIRECT VIEWS 3BR/2BA • 1202 sq. ft. • Concrete driveway BR 2 BA, 1312 sq ft., many upgrades, 2 Car garage BAY VIEWS Lots Starting 38020 Sailors Court • $459,950 ide Court • $314,900
408 ING
UNDER CONTRACT
Captain’s Cove -- Hidden Treasure Virginia’s CouldonBe Listed Here Eastern Shore
3 BR 2 BA 1986 sq ft., Bonus Room
3 BRon 2 BAVirginia’s 1986 sq ft., Bonus Room Shore Captain’s Cove -- Hidden Treasure Eastern REDUCED
Way ED• $128,700
SOLD
37309 Blackjack Court • $199,500
3 BR 2 BA 1986 sq ft., Bonus Room $74,500 1/940 REDUCED 1408 nal $74,500 Cleared Canal1/940 w100’ 3BR/2.5 LOTS BA WATERVIEW anal Cleared Canal w100’ head Bulkhead 2160 sq. ft.W & S $18,000 3/1623 Cleared 69,900 3/1443 head Bulkhead Master BR W & S ared canal w/ 60’ $18,000 3/1629 Cleared
3BR/2.5 BA Located on Golf Course
3BR/2.5 BA Located on Golf Course NEW LISTING
$5000 4/2039Custom Wooded Designed $4000 5/19 Wooded WATERFR0NT $5000 8/48 Cleared UNDER CONTRACT $4000 4/2092 Wooded 3BR/3 BA $5000 4/ 2104 Wooded, $4000 9/38 Cleared, Septic Approved 2800 sq. Septic ft. Approved Bulkhead NEW LISTING $5000 4/2130Loaded Wooded, with Septic Approved with Sitting 9/66 Cleared, Septic Approved $54,900 3/1383 $24,000 3/1628 Cleared WArea, & S $4000 $5250 1/1252Upgrades, Wooded, W &Bonus S Oversized Garage $4000 1/471 Wooded DIRECT Cleared canal BAY VIEWS $5500 5/2403Room, Wooded,Oversized Septic Approved & Workshop, $4000 4/1964 Wooded EW Wooded, W & SViews $4000 5/2473 Wooded, Septic Approved $6,000 1/1250 Garage, Bay 74,500 1/940 EW REDUCEDBay Views $6000 9/127 Wooded, Septic Approved ared Canal w100’ $4000 9/163 Cleared, Septic Approved REDUCED REDUCED $9,000 2/379 Cleared, Alt. Septic Bulkhead REDUCED Approved $4000 5/2562 Wooded, Septic Approved $6500 7/276 Cleared, NEWSeptic LISTING $10,500 2/134 Wooded, SepticDIRECT Approved BAY VIEWS 195 $75,000 1/1196 9/64oversize Cleared garage, many upgrades $4000 11/97 Wooded,3Septic BR 3Approved BA, 2800$7000 sq ft., 1195 $75,000 1/1196 $12,000 2/261 Cleared, Septic Approved nal, Cleared canal w/75’ $7000 11/3 Wooded 1/806 Wooded REDUCED $15,000canal 2/221 Cleared, nal, Cleared w/75’ Septic Approved $4000 head Bulkhead $4000 11/27 Wooded REDUCED TING REDUCED PENDING $7000 11/2 Wooded 75,000 1/1196 $15,000 2/206 Cleared, Septic Approved khead Bulkhead ared canal w/75’ $7000 11/14 Wooded $4000 8/4 Cleared Approved Bulkhead 900 1439 $15,000 High Seas2/184 Court, Cleared, $65,000 Septic940 Sailors Court, $69,500 1443 High Seas Court, $69,900 Sailors Court, $73,000 Wooded $4000 4/2338 Wooded, Approved $7000 11/4926 1/940 $65,000 3/1439 120’ new bulkhead, bay views 100’$69,900 bulkhead, unobstructed 60’ Septic bulkhead 60’ bulkhead, minutes to bay, bay views elevation Cleared $4000 3/1657 Wooded, Septic Approved $7000 8/38high Cleared canal Cleared Canal w100’ $7000 9/101 Wooded W LISTING $4000 6/86 Wooded w/120’ Bulkhead Bulkhead ING MARSH VIEWS BUYER INCENTIVE $500 10/159 Wooded $7000 1/733 Wooded ING1/958 NEW LISTING $4000 9/185 Cleared 75,000 TING Cleared canal $2000LISTING 1/881 Wooded NEW $7900 4/2177 Wooded, Septic Approved $4021 6/40 Wooded, Septic Approved /60’ Bulkhead LOCATION $3000BAY 5/9 Wooded EASY ACCESS $8500 4/2358 Wooded, Septic Approved $4200 6/45 Wooded, Septic Approved SOLD 1045 $75,000 1/958 $3500 10/140 Wooded 1045 $75,000 1/958 BAY VIEWS $4430 5/2482 Wooded, Septic Approved $8900 3/1723 Wooded, Septic Approved NEW LISTING DIRECT anal Cleared canal or, $73,500 1195 Salty Way, $75,000 1196 Salty Way, $75,000 1045 Scimitar Way, $75,000 958 Bayside Drive, $3500 7/169 Wooded, Septic Approved anal1/1021 100’ Cleared canal $8900 11/10 Wooded, Septic $75,000 Approved 78,000 $4500 5/41 Wooded, 60’ Septic Approved ly located bulkhead, marsh views, 75’ bulkhead, protected canal, water frontage, wooded water frontage, bay views ared canal w/60’ w/60’ front Bulkhead $3500 1/467 Approved BAY VIEWS$9000 9/12660’Cleared, easy access toBulkhead bay Wooded, Septic$1500 Discount$5000 in May/June lotApproved Septic Approved 6/17 Wooded, canal Septic front w/60’ Bulkhead $4000 9/20 Cleared 4/1962 Wooded, Septic Approved $10,000 9/168 Wooded, Septic Approved $73,500 1/926 $73,500$5000 3/1408 DIRECT BAY ACCESS $4000 7/275 Cleared $5000 11/101 Wooded, Septic Approved $10,000 11/32 Wooded, Septic Approved EW LISTING Cleared Cleared canal $4000 11/85canal Wooded 80,000 4/1414 BAY VIEWS w/50’ Bulkhead w/50’LISTING Bulkhead BAY VIEWS TING $4000 11/7 Wooded ared canal w/60’ TING NEW
WATERFR0NT
3 BR 2 BA 1986 sq ft., Bonus Room
GOLF COURSE LOTS
3BR/2.5 BA 2160 sq ft, oversize garage
Your Home
3BR/2.5 BA Located on Golf Course
WATERVIEW LOTS
$7000 11/2views Wooded $4000 11/27 Wooded 3 BR 2.5 BA, 2876 sq ft., canal $15,000 and bay $5000 4/2039 Wooded $15,0002/206 2/206Cleared, Cleared,Septic SepticApproved Approved $4000 8/4 Cleared $4000 5/19 Wooded $7000 11/14 Wooded $7000 11/14 Wooded $4000 8/4 Cleared $15,000 2/184 Cleared, Septic Approved $15,000 2/184 Cleared, Septic Approved $4000 4/2338 Wooded, Septic Approved $4000 $5000 8/48 Cleared 11/4 Wooded 4/2092 Wooded $18,000 Cleared WApproved & S $7000 $7000 11/4 Wooded $4000 3/1623 4/2338 Wooded, Septic $3500 4/2338 Wooded, Septic Approved $5,000 1/1055 Wooded, W & S $65,000 3/1439 $69,900 3/1443 WATERVIEW LOTS $7000 8/38 Cleared $4000 3/1657 Wooded, Septic Approved $5000 4/Septic 2104 Wooded, $4000 9/38 Cleared, Septic Approved $3500 1/467 Wooded, Septic Approved $5000 6/17 Wooded, ApprovedSeptic Appro $7000 8/38 Cleared INTERIOR LOTS Cleared canal $4000 3/1657 Wooded, Septic Approved Cleared canal w/ 60’3/1628 $18,000 3/1629 Cleared W & S $10,000 Cleared W & S w/120’ Bulkhead $3500 6/56 Wooded, Septic Approved $7000 9/101 Wooded Bulkhead $5000 11/101 Wooded, Septic Approved $4000 6/866/86 Wooded $7000 9/101 Wooded $4000 Wooded $5000 4/2130 Wooded, Septic Approv $4000 9/66 Cleared, Septic Approved $10,000 3/1629 Cleared W &Cleared S $3750 $24,000 3/1628 W & S $500 10/159 Wooded 5/2482 $7000 Wooded, Septic Approved $5000 8/48 Cleared $500 10/159 Wooded 1/733 Wooded $4000 9/185 Cleared $7000 1/733 Wooded $4000 9/185 Cleared 1/1252 Wooded, W&S $18,000 3/1623 Cleared W & S $4000 9/20 Cleared $4000 1/471 Wooded $5000 4/2104$5250 Wooded, Septic Approved $2000 $20001/881 1/881Wooded Wooded $7900 4/2177 Wooded, Septic Approved $4021 6/406/40 Wooded, Septic Approved $7900 4/2177 Wooded, Septic Approved $4021 Wooded, Septic Approved $4000 11/85 Wooded $5000 4/2130$5500 Wooded, Septic Approved 5/2403 Wooded, Septic Approv $4000 4/1964 Wooded $3000 $30005/9 5/9Wooded Wooded $8500 4/2358 Wooded, SepticSeptic Approved $4200 6/456/45 Wooded, Septic Approved $8500 4/2358 Wooded, Approved $4000 5/19 Wooded $4200 Wooded, Septic Approved $5250 1/1252 Wooded, W & S GOLF COURSE LOTS $3500 $6,000 1/1250 Wooded, W & S 5/2473 Wooded, Septic Approved $350010/140 10/140Wooded Wooded $4000 4/2092$4000 Wooded $6000 2/89 Wooded $8900 3/1723 Wooded, Septic Approved $4430 5/2482 Wooded, Septic Approved $8900 3/1723 Wooded, Septic Approved $4430 5/2482 Wooded, Septic Approved $73,500 3/1408 $74,500 1/940 $5,900 2/379 Cleared, Alt. Septic $4000 1/471 Wooded $3500 Approved $6500 7/276 $6000 Cleared, Septic Approved CANAL VIEW $35007/169 7/169Wooded, Wooded, Septic Approved $4500 Cleared canal 9/127 Wooded, Septic Approve ClearedSeptic Canal w100’ $4000 9/16311/10 Cleared, SepticSeptic Approved $8900 11/10 Wooded, Septic Approved $78,000 5/415/41 Wooded, Septic Approved $8900 Wooded, Approved $78,0001/1021 1/1021 $4500 Wooded, Septic Approved $10,900 2/134 Wooded, Septic Approved $4000 4/1964 Wooded $7000 11/3 Wooded Cleared Clearedcanal canalw/60’ w/60’ $9,000 2/379 Cleared, Alt. Septic w/50’ Bulkhead Bulkhead $3500 1/467 Wooded, Septic Approved $3500 1/467 Wooded, Septic Approved $9000 9/126 Cleared, Septic Approved $9000 9/126 Cleared, Septic Approved $5000 6/176/17 Wooded, Septic Approved $5000 Wooded, Septic Approved $6500 7/276 Cleared, Septic Approve Bulkhead Bulkhead 5/2562 Wooded, Septic Approved $11,000 2/107 Wooded, Septic Approved $4000 5/2473$4000 Wooded, Septic Approved $7000 11/2 Wooded $10,500 2/134 Wooded, Septic Approved $40009/20 9/20Cleared Cleared$12,000 2/261 Cleared, $4000 $10,000 Wooded, Approved $10,000 9/1689/168 Wooded, SepticSeptic Approved $5000 4/1962 Wooded, Septic Approved $5000 4/1962 Wooded, Septic Approved $4000 9/163 Cleared, Septic Approved Septic Approved $7000 11/14 $7000 Wooded 9/64 Cleared $75,000 1/1195 $75,000 1/1196 $4000 11/97 Wooded, Septic Approved $40007/275 7/275Cleared Cleared$15,000 2/184 Cleared, Cleared Canal, Cleared canal $4000 $12,000 2/261 Cleared, Septic Approved $4000 5/2562 Wooded, Septic Approved $10,000 11/32 Wooded, Septic Approved $7000 11/4 Wooded $5000 11/101 Wooded, Septic Approved Septic Approved $10,000 11/32 Wooded, Septic Approved $5000 11/101 Wooded, Septic Approved NEWLISTING LISTING NEW w/100’ Bulkhead w/75’ Bulkhead CANAL VIEW $7000 11/3 Wooded $4000 1/806 Wooded $400011/85 11/85Wooded Wooded 11/97 Wooded, Septic Approved $7000 8/38 Cleared $4000 REDUCED $15,000 2/206 Cleared, $15,000Septic 2/221Approved Cleared, Septic$4000 Approved $80,0004/1414 4/1414 $80,000 $7000 9/101 $7000 Wooded 11/2 Wooded $4000 11/27 Wooded $40001/1195 11/7Wooded Wooded $15,000 2/221 Cleared, Septic Approved $4000 1/806 Wooded Clearedcanal canalw/60’ w/60’ $4000 Cleared $75,00011/7 $75,000 1/1196
INTERIOR INTERIORLOTS LOTS
Bulkhead
,000 1209 1209 ead, open anal anal head head
WS WS
1290 290 lw/60’ w/60’ dd
1021 Bayside Drive, $78,000 60’ bulkhead, protected canal, bay views
MARSH VIEW 1200 Salty Way, $79,000 60’ new vinyl bulkhead w/ boardwalk, boat lift poles
Bulkhead Bulkhead
MARSH VIEWS
$75,000 1/1045 Wooded, canal w/60’ waterfront
Cleared, canal w/75’ bulkhead
BAY VIEWS
Cleared Canal, $75,000 1/1209 w/100’ Bulkhead
NEW BULKHEAD
NEW LISTING $78,000 1/1021 Cleared canal w/60’ Bulkhead
BAY VIEWS $80,000 3/1290 Cleared canal w/60’ Bulkhead
$79,000 1/1200 $75,000 1/1045 Cleared canal w/61’ Bulkhead Wooded, canal
w/60’ water front
WIDE CANAL
NEW LISTING $80,000 4/1414
Cleared canal w/60’ $75,000 1/1209 Bulkhead
Cleared, canal w/75’ bulkhead
1290 Blackbeard Court, $80,000 75’ bulkhead, direct bay access and views
GOLF COURSE LOTS
1414 Starboard Street, $80,000 60’ bulkhead, wide canal
$15,000 2/206 Cleared, Septic$4000 Approved 11/27 Wooded
$7000 1/733 Wooded $7000 11/14 Wooded $7950 1/1091 Wooded, W & S $4000 9/64 Cleared 11/4Septic WoodedApproved 4/2358$7000 Wooded, $4000 4/2338 Wooded, Septic $8500 Approved $4000 3/1657 Wooded, Septic Approved $8900 3/1723 Wooded, Septic Approved $7000 8/38 Cleared $4000 3/1657 Wooded, Septic $8900 Approved $4000 6/86 Wooded 11/10 Wooded, Septic Approved $200 4/1947 Wooded, Septic Approved 9/101 Wooded $4000 9/185 Cleared NEW$500 LISTING $4000 6/86 Wooded $9500 9/126 $7000 Cleared, Septic Approved 10/159 Wooded $4000 6/24 Wooded, Septic Approved $10,,000 9/168 Wooded, Septic $500 10/159 Wooded $2000 10/140 Wooded $7000 1/733 WoodedApproved $4000 9/185 Cleared $75,000 1/958 $4000 3/1807 Wooded $2000 1/881 Wooded $10,000 11/32 Wooded, Septic Approved Cleared canal $2000 1/881 Wooded $7900 4/2177 Wooded, Septic Approv 6/40Septic Wooded, Septic Approved $4000 5/2411$4021 Wooded, Approved $2500 7/321 Wooded, Septic Approved w/60’ Bulkhead $4000 5/2476$4200 Wooded $3000 5/9 Wooded $3000 5/9 Wooded $8500 4/2358 Wooded, Septic Approv 6/45 Wooded, Septic Approved $4021 6/40 Wooded, Septic Approved $3000 5/2465 Wooded, Septic Approved $3500 10/140 Wooded $4200 6/45 Wooded, BAY VIEWS $4430 5/2482 Wooded, Septic $1. Approved Septic Approved $3000 4/2198 Wooded 16/33 $8900 3/1723 Wooded, Septic Approv $3500 7/169 Wooded, Septic Approved $4400 9/127 Wooded, Septic Approved $3000 4/2317 Wooded $8900 11/10 Wooded, Septic Approve $78,000 1/1021 $4500 5/41 Wooded, Septic Approved
$15,000 2/394 Cleared, Septic Approved Cleared canal w/75’ $4000 8/4 Cleared 8/4 Cleared $15,000 2/184 Cleared, Septic$4000 Approved Bulkhead
INTERIOR LOTS
INTERIOR LOTS
MEMBERSHIP LOT
Cleared canal w/60’ Bulkhead
$3500 1/467 Wooded, Septic Approved $5000 6/17 Wooded, Septic Approved
$9000 9/126 Cleared, Septic Approve
44 Ocean Pines PROGRESS
OPINION
June - Early July 2015
COMMENTARY
Proposed Community Hall use policy needs work
T
he proposed Community Hall use policy unveiled by General Manager Bob Thompson in a May special meeting needs a lot more work before it is ready for a vote by the Board of Directors. While designed to deal with space issues and to level the playing field among those groups that seek to use the facility, the method employed to achieve fairness in this draft proposal is essence offers many civic and community groups a stark choice: Either they pay a fee to use a facility that up until now has been offered without charge or they donate the volunteer labor of their members in lieu of payment. That sounds a bit harsh, even punitive, and it might even be said it turns a benevolent instinct to volunteer time and energy into a kind of indentured servitude to the almighty Ocean Pines Association. The complaints of one organization active in Ocean Pines for decades, the Ocean Pines Boat Club, with anywhere from 300 to 500 members depending on who’s counting, are compelling. Before the task force that is drafting this policy finishes its work, the concerns of organizations like the Boat Club need to be taken into account. Any proposed policy change that does not have the substantial acquiescence if not enthusiastic support of affected organizations in Ocean Pines should not be endorsed by the Board of Directors. Thompson says the proposed policy is truly a work in progress and the next steps include meeting with organizations like the Boat Club to game out exactly how the proposed volunteer program would affect them. According to him, what these groups may not understand is that many of their members are already volunteering in large numbers to help out the OPA in staffing any number of OPA-sponsored events, from Easter eggs hunts to cleaning up parks. So it becomes a matter of crediting the volunteer hours already contributed to the OPA to a particular community or civic group in calculating its volunteer contribution to the OPA. That sounds all and well and good, and it might even have the virtue of being true. But let Thompson
Captain’s Cove
From Page 42 that oversees monopoly utilities in the state, with the power to approve asset sales and rates. A review of the comments posted on the SCC Web site relative to the case, PUE-2015-00014, suggests relatively little opposition to the CCUC-owned asset sale has surfaced. Comments, including a letter from Virginia State Senator Lynwood Lewis on behalf of three Cove residents, focused for the most part on issues related to the status of ten acres located in parts of Sections 14 and 15 for the potential future use for what’s called a rapid infiltration basin, or RIB. The ten acres at issue is currently owned by Captain’s Cove Group Note, LLC, Cove’s declarant/developer. Aqua is said to have a contract to acquire use of the property in the event that RIBs elsewhere in the Cove have to be abandoned. The Cove property owners association has had long-standing use rights to the ten acres, dating back to the time, long since past, when the ten acres were
... it might even be said it turns a benevolent instinct to volunteer time and energy into a kind of indentured servitude to the almighty Ocean Pines Association. and his working group prove that to these organizations. Then let them convince these venerable organizations that their members are not going to be subtly coerced into volunteering for the OPA when their real interest is volunteering on behalf of the good works performed by the organization of which they are members. There are limited hours in a day, after all, and many of the members of these organizations are well into their 70s and 80s. Let Thompson and his task force, pen and paper in hand, sit down with the Boat Club, the Kiwanis Club, the Power Squadron and others to determine the volunteer requirements of this proposed policy change. Then it should become clear enough whether it is unworkable, as a representative of the Boat Club suggested in comments to the Board of Directors in late May. It may be, or it may not, but skepticism is warranted. The premise behind the proposed policy change is one of fairness. According to Thompson, many requests for use of the Community Center are denied because certain groups have free use of the facility grand-fathered through long tradition, monopolizing the space. If that’s true, then it should not be too difficult to document. To fully appreciate the extent of the unfairness to those denied access, let Thompson and his working group produce definitive proof of which groups exactly are being denied access to the Com-
part of a second nine-hole golf course in that area of the Cove. The Cove board of directors last October voted to sell those use rights to Aqua last year for $31,500. Lewis’ letter focused on the process by which Aqua may one day acquire title to the ten acres and how that might affect Cove property owners. Lewis said in his letter that it’s unclear whether Aqua is purchasing or leasing the ten acres. The three property owners whose letter he submitted with his own questioned why the CCG Note, LLC is selling the ten acres to CCUC rather than selling it directly to Aqua “without the middle man.” Lewis suggested that whether the land is sold or leased could affect future rate calculations by the SCC staff with a direct impact on Cove homeowners. Lewis went on to raise environmental concerns about the possible use of the ten acres as RIBs, questioning who would be responsible for an equipment failure or leak that pollutes “either land or bay.” He said POA members want to be
munity Center. Then objective judgments can be made about the extent to which there truly is a problem that needs to be remedied. Perhaps it’s a relatively small problem that can be remedied not by a major change in use policy but in making some under-utilized space – the upper floor of the Country Club comes to mind – more user friendly. Replacing the worn-out HVAC system and deodorizing the place would be a good start. Assuming there is a problem at the Community Center, and it’s safe to say that one exists at least to some extent, then care needs to be taken in implementing a remedy. The proposed solution at this stage in the process appears to be one that attempts to ration the space by imposing fees and/or a community service requirement on organizations that want to use the Community Center. Is this kind of rationing something that a majority of OPA directors will support? In Thompson’s defense, the fairness issue can be argued in another way: Why should those who use the Community Center as members of large groups be spared a usage fee (or donated time) when those who partake of Recreation Department programs and classes are not? Is it fair to exempt members of certain large groups from fees or community service when users of other OPA amenities – from swimming pools, to the golf course, to tennis courts – must pay to play? Maybe not, but it’s not as if golfers, swimmers and tennis players are complaining about a double standard. Many active users of the major amenities are also members of community and civic organizations. They already pay for Community Center maintenance and Recreation Department staffing through their annual assessments. There is a board policy resolution that codifies free use of the Community Center for many Ocean Pines organization as acceptable policy, and there needs to be a compelling rationale for changing it and replacing it with something else. To date, the rationale is tepid. And the “something else” needs to win widespread acceptance before it is imposed on those who already are giving a lot to the community. – Tom Stauss
sure that the responsible party is “properly insured and bonded” against any adverse impact. Finally, he also said the original Deed of Dedication for the acreage that included these ten acres may conflict with the proposed contract between CCUC and Aqua. He said there is some concern about “the fundamental permissibility of the transaction” because of wording in that deed of dedication. No doubt CCUC and Aqua will argue that any residual recreational use has been definitively addressed by the board’s vote to sell the use rights to the ten acres by the Cove POA. A final concern raised in the Lewis letter involves the cost of individual grinder systems that eventually will replace the aging vacuum sewer system installed decades ago in parts of the Cove. “These systems can be very expensive and it is unclear who will maintain them and insure their operation,” he wrote. With the comment period closed, the next step in the process is for the SCC staff to review the proposed sale and to
draft a recommendation to be considered by the SCC board members. Land swap program – During the May 11 board meeting, Cove Director Rosemary Hall and Hearn discussed the Cove POA’s land swap program, in which unbuildable lots in Sections 1 through 13 can be traded for buildable POA-owned lots elsewhere in the Cove. The program thus far has not been an unqualified success. Hall thinks that’s in part because, in order to participate, all arrearages need to be paid off, and the cost to do so for some people is prohibitive. But she also said the program is not well known among property owners. Hearn agreed. She suggested promoting the program in the Cove newsletter and on the Web site, in addition to a flier that would be included in assessment notices or letters sent out to property owners who are delinquent. At Hearn’s suggestion, she will be working with communication director Justin Wilder in drafting the flier. Currently, the program is limited to the first 25 property owners who come forward to propose a swap.
OPINION
June - Early July 2015Ocean Pines PROGRESS
45
Another try at a Sandpiper franchise agreement rate overseers, if it hasn’t been already. That might inject a little more urgency on their part to get a deal done before An excursion through the curious cul-de-sacs An excursion through theby-ways curious and by-ways and cul-de-sacs more of the customer base flies the coop. As for that franchise fee, which might of Worcester County’s County’s most densely community. of Worcester mostpopulated densely populated community. be passed on to customers in a $2 or $3 By TOM STAUSS/ By TOM Publisher STAUSS/Publisher monthly surcharge on their bills, that, too, can be avoided by shopping for alternative suppliers. In any event, any Simply put, Sandpiper ultimately the phone and arrange for a free proneeds a deal more than the OPA does. pane storage tank and have it filled by a such fee would have to be approved by the Maryland Public Service CommisWhen the company begins to run out of Sandpiper competitor. One of Sandpipplaces in Worcester County where it can er’s sister subsidiaries, Sharp Energy, sion, and it might not be too keen on imposing additional costs on Ocean Pines roll-out natural gas and wants to focus supplies propane to the OPA via underon Ocean Pines, then that’s when there ground storage tank, at a considerable consumers if it’s not strictly necessary. That would be especially true if a will be more energy invested in reachsavings for the OPA. contingent of local customers descend on ing an agreement with the OPA. When The best time to act is now, during there is real corporate interest in a set- the summer months, when the demand a hearing or flood the PSC Web site with negative comments. The lesson here? It tlement, that’s when it will happen, and for propane is low. Companies generally not a day sooner. offer payment plans to spread the cost in the end it may not matter whether a franchise fee is included in a Sandpiper Meanwhile, consumers in Ocean of buying propane over time. deal subject to PSC approval. Pines are not really disadvantaged. If If too many Sandpiper customers Sandpiper loses nothing by acquiescthey want to avoid the relative high leave the nest for cheaper propane altercosts of propane delivered by Sandpip- natives, that, too, ought to be noticed by ing to the fee, in some form or another, because there’s a good chance it would er’s pipeline, they simply need pick up Sandpiper executives and their corpo-
LIFE IN THE LIFE INPINES THE PINES
Unworkable guidelines for Community Hall use
LETTERS
The proposed guidelines for use of the Ocean Pines Community Center are unworkable for the Ocean Pines Boat Club. We routinely have between 400 and 500 members and, depending on how we are classified, we could have to provide between 1,200 and 2,000 hours of community service annually. The latter is equivalent to a full-time employee working 50 weeks per year. Who is going to supervise 400-plus “volunteers”? Who is going to be responsible and liable for injuries and Workman’s Compensation for mostly 60- to
80-year-old volunteers? What if they belong to multiple clubs? Is there a limit on hours owed, and how do you expect us to coerce our members into putting in the time? We also wonder what clubs were officially represented on this committee (that drafted the proposed Community Center use policy) We are the largest club in Ocean Pines and assuredly were not. I do not believe the honor system is viable since that presupposes a moral obligation. Many people feel we paid for these facilities and pay for their contin-
ued staff and maintenance. They do not feel that they should pay, in either time or money, to use them. Walt Lischak Ocean Pines Fleet captain, Ocean Pines Boat Club
Pines golfer defends membership rates
I would like to respond to Mr. Reggie Shephard Jr.’s letter to the editor [May-Early June 2015] concerning Ocean Pines’ new relationship with Landscape Unlimited and the Ocean Pines Golf Course in general. First of
Traditional & Cremation Services Available for Pre-Need Arrangements
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t is axiomatic that in any negotiation, probably the worst thing one side can do is to negotiate with itself rather than those with whom one is seeking agreement. You don’t want to send a message that you’re so eager to reach an agreement that you will unilaterally give up on a key objective. By authorizing General Manager Bob Thompson to attempt to jumpstart talks with Sandpiper Energy on a natural gas franchise agreement, as the OPA’s lead negotiator, there is a risk that the OPA will be perceived as lukewarm or squishy on its two key objectives: obtaining a $150,000 franchise fee and roughly $70,000 in legal fees incurred by the OPA in the protracted efforts thus far to secure an agreement. But that needn’t be the reality, and there is no reason why Thompson won’t be able to reiterate the OPA’s core objectives when he contacts Sandpiper executives to to see if it’s possible to hammer out a deal. After all, there was some indication in some private email communication late last year that Sandpiper was receptive to the OPA’s core requirements. What hasn’t happened since then is any follow-up, any real effort to see if a willingness to negotiate can actually result in an agreement. Tasking Thompson with the chore to see if the time is now ripe for an agreement was the right move by the Board of Directors. When he proposed that Thompson be given the job (he actually was given the job last December) as lead negotiator, Director Bill Cordwell seemed to suggest that it was the board’s fault no agreement has been reached thus far. Cordwell said that discussions had “bogged down” when the board got involved. Not quite. Director Tom Terry was somewhat more tactful and accurate in his assessment, not so much blaming the board as simply stating the obvious: What’s been tried so far hasn’t worked in producing an agreement, so let’s try something else. And that’s fine, so long as the “something else” doesn’t involve caving on core objectives. The reason talks bogged down hasn’t been the result of OPA intransigence or micro-management or too much board involvement. Or talking out of school by a certain director that then got reported in the local media, because he forgot to say “off the record” in a late night conversation. Whatever. What difference, at this point, does it make. For whatever reason, Sandpiper hasn’t been willing to put in concrete form what it said informally in e-mail late last year what it might be willing to consider in a franchise agreement. Until it is, there probably won’t be much movement on an agreement, even if Thompson camps out in Sandpiper offices in the effort to reach a deal. He needn’t do that. Indeed, he should not.
The Ocean Pines Progress, a journal of news and commentary, is published monthly throughout the year. It is circulated in Ocean Pines, Berlin, Ocean City, and Captain’s Cove, Va. Letters and other editorial submissions: Please submit via email only. Letters should be original and exclusive to the Progress. Include phone number for verification. 127 Nottingham Lane Ocean Pines, MD 21811
PUBLISHER/EDITOR Tom Stauss tstauss1@mchsi.com 433-359-7527
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PROOFREADER Joanne Williams
OPINION
June - Early July 2015 all, the membership fee with a cart at Ocean Pines Golf is $2,600, not $4,300. He is right when he says he can get to play two on-site courses of different style, neither of which can compare to the Robert Trent Jones Sr. course at Ocean Pines. Reggie can get the starting times he wants easier at the two courses because they do not get the amount of play that Ocean Pines gets. The two courses have a single owner who I guess can absorb the losses that have to be sustained to be able to guarantee the preferred times that Mr. Shephard’s group are able to get. There are a couple of things that Mr. Shephard has not taken into account in his effort to save money -- travel time and expenses. First of all he lives less than a mile to Ocean Pines golf, two minutes by car and five minutes by bike from his home. Compare that to travel to the Bay Club -- 15.4 miles 27 to 30 minutes each way. Ocean City Yacht and Country Club are about the same. If he doesn’t care about the travel costs to lesser quality courses, that’s fine, but why knock Ocean Pines, where he lives. Reggie also doesn’t take into account the social factor where a whole different lifestyle is made available to him and his family. Jerry Fennell Ocean Pines
LETTERS Another perspective on Ocean Pines golf
This is in response to the letter in the May-Early June issue of Ocean Pines Progress by Reggie Shephard, Jr. on the value of the Ocean Pines golf course. Folks in this area love to boast that their favorite restaurant has the best crab cakes, or a better view of the water, or great off season specials. Similarly, golfers talk about their course and its fast greens, challenging holes, and strategically placed sand bunkers. Within just a few miles of Ocean Pines, there are several very nice golf courses that offer good value to those who play them; Ocean Pines Golf and Country Club is certainly among them. The members of Ocean Pines choose to respect the varying opinions folks may have about which course better suits their game just as we do about which restaurant has the best seafood. It is unfortunate that local press reports more on the political unrest surrounding Ocean Pines Board of Directors’ discussions of the golf course and less about the excellent conditions and unique challenges offered by the Robert Trent Jones designed course. Ocean Pines is a course enjoyed by its members and by those who choose to play it on a
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daily fee basis. We welcome golfers of all abilities to come play Ocean Pines and to make their own decisions about the value of the course. Those who do will find daily fee rates that are competitive, and if interested, full annual memberships are just $1,315 without a cart package and $2615 with a cart package. Just like the other clubs, members receive discounts in the pro shop and other perks that at Ocean Pines include an active member program. Perhaps the $4,300 price tag Mr. Shephard used in his letter referred to the cost of a family membership at Ocean Pines; but that membership is only $4200 with a cart package. Further, the cost figures he uses for his course are different from the promotional material provided by the course. By now we all should know not to believe everything we read. If you are a golfer, we hope you will check out Ocean Pines, and find a good place to play the game at a reasonable price. This may be at our course or at one of the other fine courses in the area. Kevin Hughes, president Golf Members Council Ocean Pines
Sandpiper deadlock OPA board’s fault
How about that? Another great decision made by the Ocean Pines Association Board of Directors. Has your garbage been picked up on time lately? Talk about penny wise and pound foolish. We elect people to represent us. Have they? Were we unsatisfied with Waste Management? Did we feel we were being overcharged by them? Certainly not, but the geniuses on our board go out and save us a few pennies a month, apparently not knowing anything about the new company’s operational experience. Well, we certainly knew how Waste Management operated, but no one asked us if we wanted to change companies. How about waiting until there are complaints about garbage pickup, followed by hearings with the residents, before we make the next change? Also, why have we come to a complete standstill in our endeavors to obtain natural gas? The board’s decision to obtain a franchise fee from a utility regulated by the Maryland Public Service Commission (PSC) is preposterous and unheard of. Do we get a franchise fee from Choptank Electric or Verizon, as they have their cables in our community? No, their rates are controlled by the PSC. Only Mediacom pays it, and it is not regulated by the PSC. If Sandpiper did agree to a franchise fee, it would have to be collected from its Ocean Pines customers only, so that the board can take credit for getting a franchise fee. Ocean Pines people who don’t use Sandpiper would get a benefit. A franchise fee is another form of wealth distribution. Let’s face it: The gas main in Ocean
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46 Ocean Pines PROGRESS
OPINION Pines has absolutely no value to us; it is only a convenience to a gas supplier. If Sandpiper doesn’t use it for natural gas, what do we do, offer it to another propane supplier? Where the heck is common sense in this scenario? The people of Ocean Pines will save thousands once Sandpiper’s present tariff expires and they obtain a regular natural gas tariff similar to Chesapeake Utilities, Washington Gas and BSE. I will personally lobby for any candidates for the Ocean Pines board who breaks this franchise fee deadlock and votes to get Ocean Pines converted to natural gas ASAP. In the meantime, Sandpiper continues to financially rape the community as ESG did, having bamboozled the PSC with a promise to give customers free conversion, so they can assume the financial shenanigans of ESG. Have you noticed that although crude oil prices have dropped outstandingly, our Sandpiper propane prices have remained steadily high? Funny, isn’t it? Does Sandpiper buy its propane from Sharp Energy, another Chesapeake subsidiary? Is this another AT&T/Western Electric scheme? And what has our illustrious board done? It has played right into Sandpiper’s hand, delaying our conversion, so Sandpiper can now go back to the PSC and say they will have to continue their high rates because they haven’t been able to convert the largest entity in Worcester County. I believe we need a new board, staffed with people who truly have the interest of the majority of people in Ocean Pines. Not a small group of apparent elitists who think the board knows better than their constituents. Budd Shea Ocean Pines
That ugly orange fence
The south gate pond along Ocean Parkway has had an ugly orange fence erected for sometime now, at least since January. I have a suspicion that it has something to do with the geese. My emails to the OPA board have gone unanswered. If this is a temporary arrangement, then is there some other (more expensive) fix, hiding in the works? I surmise that some residents hate the Geese, but many of us think of them as one of our amenities (at very low cost). I thought that perhaps the fire department might have a problem with the geese, but I can’t imagine that they wouldn’t have solved such a thing after all these years. Does anyone have an answer before the board or Thompson gets carried away with this? Hal Boyd Ocean Pines
Better signage
Thank you (Ocean Pines Association) for replacing the missing STOP sign at the intersection of Beaconhill and Pine-
June - Early July 2015Ocean Pines PROGRESS
LETTERS hurst Roads. We need a four way stop at that intersection rather than just a stop for those travelling on Beaconhill Road. Overgrown shrubs and trees impede the view of Pinehurst Road, and one must approach cautiously through the intersection. Also, just past the mailboxes on Beaconhill Road the other end of Pinehurst Road dead ends into Beaconhill. Beaconhill then continues on for several hundred feet before ending in a culde-sac. Often vehicles drive all the way down only to find they have to turn around and go back. Large trucks, motorcycles
and other vehicles may have a difficult time turning their vehicles around. A No Outlet sign posted near the mailboxes would solve that problem. We have several small children on our street. Why would you not make every effort to keep them and the residents safe by placing appropriate signage? Sometimes we become so used to the way things are that we miss the opportunity to improve our community. I would ask that police officers, as they do their appointed rounds, make note of any street signs that are missing or obscured by trees, or offer their own suggestions as to where appropriate signage should be installed.
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Another approach would be for the Public Works Department to do a “sweep” of the community over a period of a few weeks and then move forward to remedy the situation. Thank you for keeping our community beautiful and safe. Jane A. Mooney Ocean Pines
Thanks to Marty Clark
I would like to thank Marty Clarke for serving on the Ocean Pines Board of Directors. His conservative attitude truly represents me and many other Ocean Pines property owners. Many of us are sorry he is not running for the board again. Mike Graves Ocean Pines
48 Ocean Pines PROGRESS 32 Ocean Pines PROGRESS
June - Early July 2015
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