From the General Manager
T
his is my time of year to be thankful and reflect on the past season. Living in this great community is certainly something you can be grateful for. I really enjoy seeing and reading about how many members are always willing to help other members. This is just one of the many things that keeps the community bonded, and certainly a nice benefit just knowing that help is available anytime it may be needed.
GREG BABBITT General Manager gbabbitt@clpoc.org
OFFICE 10690 Pierce Rd. Canadian Lakes, MI 49346 Phone: 231-972-7651 OFFICE HOURS Monday - Friday 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Saturday 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. MEMBER SERVICES Dawn McNeill Faith Markin Jane Hensley memberservices@clpoc.org
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SEASONAL RECAP This past season, we continued to see increased activity at both The Highlands and The Pines golf course, as well as the outdoor pool. Even The Royal saw increased rounds. This benefited the Royal Grille as activity was up and has continued into the off-season. This has been one of our best off-season starts thus far at the restaurant. I really want to thank the members, and all of their guests, for the support they have given to the amenities this season. Unfortunately, like some of you perhaps, this has been another stressful year for my staff and especially my department heads. Continuing to deal with lingering pandemic issues and dealing with being short-staffed in many areas for most of the season. Even with these conditions, staff has done an excellent job in operating the community to the best of their ability. I am truly grateful for the staff I have and enjoyed watching them again this year, rise to the challenge of another season. BUDGET We are currently in the process of preparing next fiscal year’s budget, FY 2023. One factor that exists is the Consumer Price Index; similar to inflation it is currently over the ceiling (4.3%) allowed for increasing the amount of the membership fee. The Board will need to decide as to the exact percentage that will be used. Another factor being considered, is the fact that it is proving impossible to hire good employees in many areas at minimum wage or even slightly higher. Good employees in various areas are requiring $12-$15 an hour. We are unsure how long these higher wage needs will continue but to operate the community effectively and not be understaffed again next year we will be requesting budget adjustments. This budget process involves establishing the 2022 Rates and Fees Schedule. The staff, Finance Committee, and Board are all engaged in the process of preparing the FY 23 budget and 2022 Fee Schedule. The ProForma version of the budget and fee schedule will be voted on at the Board’s December 18th meeting. The Board and management continue to be cognizant of the current economic conditions while at the same time trying to balance expenses for services against income. OFF-SEASON We will be operating the tubing tow at the Highland Haus on weekends when the hill conditions permit. Staff, along with some volunteers, will be maintaining the ice skating rink again this year at the Highland Haus and the cross-country ski/biking trail on The Highlands golf course. Stay tuned to the Member Bulletin and our website for the latest updates on all our wintertime activities.
T h e C a n ad i a n L a ke r
