From the General Manager

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 This 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.

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.

THANKFUL

I am certainly thankful to all the many volunteers we have. Whether you volunteer for the Board or a committee, donate expertise or money, organize an event, support the amenities, or just pay your membership fee, you all play an important role in our success. Volunteerism is priceless and Canadian Lakes is extremely fortunate to have such an amazing group of volunteers.

I am also very thankful of my dedicated staff of employees. I would specifically like to thank my department heads: Kim Dowell, Casey Smith, Jessica Slendak, Dennis Wolfe, Bill Hull, Kristin Wilcox, and Kendall Ouwinga. These department heads and their staff take operating this place very personal and attempt to do it in a frugal business manner on a very tight budget. They all do a lot of their work behind the scenes, but without their devoted efforts Canadian Lakes would not be the place it is.

As with every year during this wonderful holiday time, my staff joins me in wishing each of you a joyous holiday season and a very happy and healthy New Year!

Serving all of Canadian Lakes

Remodel, new construction service and water softeners sales Water heaters | Bladder tanks | Pressure switchs 616-238-7333

oberlinplumbing@gmail.com

NOW BUILDING IN CANADIAN LAKES

MAYFAIR DRIVE - SAINT IVES - SLEEPY HOLLOW - WAIVING AVE