Seminole Lakes Property Owners Association
Board of Directors Meeting
September 8, 2008
Minutes
Call to Order: Bob Toth called the meeting to order at 10:00 AM.
Establish a Quorum: A quorum was established with the following present: Bob Toth, Jay Ward, Nick Cole, Linda Huber, and Joe Ring.
Also present, was Sherry Danko, from Star Hospitality Management.
Proof of Notice: The meeting notice was distributed and posted as per the Association Bylaws and Florida Statute 720.
Disposal of Minutes: With no corrections, the June 9, 2008 minutes were considered accepted.
President’s Report: Bob Toth presented an overview on the following topics: completion of Lake D rip-rap, numerous maintenance and landscape projects, generator purchase and wiring for the guardhouse for Hurricane use, Hurricane Fay preparations, ongoing police investigation of three burglaries, additional police patrol due to recycling thefts, and attorney discussions for covenants and bylaws updates.
Bob Toth continued with a slide presentation highlighting the background of the easement issue and SEMLAK lawsuit. At turnover in May 2001, the documents provided to the POA from the Developer did not include any information regarding the drainage or road easements. In 2004, the POA learned about the drainage easement from the plaza into Lake A. There was an original drainage and road easement included in a warranty deed to the Farmers Market on Sept. 9, 1986. In 1991, this was challenged and a settlement agreement was reached between Seminole Lakes, Inc. and the Farmers Market. The specific financial arrangements of this are unavailable. As the agreement was never recorded, the previous Board only learned about the agreement in 2007. SEMLAK, who acquired the property from Farmers Market, is suing the POA. The previous Board performed research and attempted to reach a settlement (with the assistance of the Association attorneys) with RUDCO Properties (on behalf of SEMLAK) to maintain the safety of the residents and payment of a contribution for the road maintenance. The Board felt they were close to reaching a settlement. However, SEMLAK filed a lawsuit on June 24, 2008. Through the attorney, the POA has responded to the lawsuit seeking a contribution to road maintenance and resolution of issues regarding lighting, construction traffic, landscaping, and signage. It is important for the POA to remain united as we move forward through this process. Sketches of the affected areas were shown. One owner inquired about the cost if this lawsuit goes to court. Bob Toth replied approximately $40,000 but added that the attorney felt this would be settled at mediation. It was also asked if the Plaza owners have a timetable they must meet due to new tenants or new construction—it was thought no.
Vice President’s Report: Jay Ward discussed the Away from Home program advising that additional details can be found in the September Grapevine. He also reported that that Health Management Associates will be moving their cardiac care unit to Peace River Medical Center from Charlotte Regional. Lastly, Jay Ward reminded owners about the safety warning posted on the COPG website regarding the removal of hurricane shutters from at least one window of each bedroom to allow for emergency access.
Treasurer’s Report: Nick Cole reported that the year-to-date budget is on track with a $22,000 deficit per the revised 2008 budget. Despite the additional legal expenses for the lawsuit, Nick Cole hopes to remain on budget even if it becomes necessary to postpone some discretionary costs until next year. The Board was asked to assist in the efforts to remain on budget.
Committee Reports: Linda Huber introduced the following:
Activity: Wayne Karlak reported on past activities: Rays baseball game, bingo, August 10th Scramble followed by dinner at Benedetto’s, and a Labor Day party. The Cabbage Key cruise was cancelled—may try again in November. Upcoming events include: bingo, Oktoberfest, Halloween Party, Christmas Party, and the January 1st Blood Mary Party.
CERT: Ray Negrycz stated that CERT held two disaster preparedness training meetings. He also noted that CERT was on standby for Tropical Storm Fay and is in constant communications with the COPG Emergency Operations Center for hurricane updates. Owners were reminded to check the Sept. 7th Charlotte Sun for hurricane tips and the list of shelters. This list will be added to the SL website: http://www.slccfl.com/
Management Report: Sherry Danko reported on the current accounts receivable (2.22% of owners), AVOs and work orders for Greenscapes, and an overview of violation letters mailed since the June Board meeting (241 letters).
Old Business: None.
New Business:
Architectural Review: Jay Ward stated that 26367 Stillwater Circle was given preliminary approval for the proposed pool and cage contingent upon receipt of a COPG permit. It was agreed to approve this request. 26060 Seminole Lakes Blvd requested permission to install a chain link fence on their side yard. Article V, Section X of the Covenants prohibits fences. Unfortunately, the neighbor has an existing fence. By general consensus, the Board agreed to deny the fence request in accordance with the Covenants and would review any existing fences in the Community; possibly contacting the attorney for advice.
Exercise Room A/C: The 15 year old A/C unit in the exercise room needs to be replaced as it no longer warranted spending any further money on it. The developer obtained multiple bids and recommended the purchase of a Carrier unit with costs shared by the POA and the Developer. Joe Ring moved, and Jay Ward seconded to ratify the earlier decision to contribute $1,464 towards the new A/C. The motion carried. The total cost of the unit was $2,428.
Political Signs: The Board received a request for permission to place a political sign on a resident’s property until Election Day. The resident asked that the issue be placed on the agenda. Linda Huber moved, and Nick Cole seconded to deny the request for placement of a political sign citing Covenants Article V. Section 5. The owner expressed his opinion advising that this type of signage helps the POA remain connected with the larger community. He added that limitations on time and size could help election signs from getting out of control. The Board discussed further. Other owners expressed their opinions, both pros and cons. The motion to deny the request carried.
Collection Procedure: Nick Cole presented a power point presentation on a proposed financial policy and procedure for collections in the POA. Payments are due on the first of every month. The process includes a friendly reminder on the 20th day if the maintenance fee remains outstanding. If still unpaid on the 31st day, interest is added and a delinquency letter is mailed. On the 46th day, if still outstanding, a final demand letter is sent. If payment is not received prior to the 61st day, the account will be sent to the attorney for a 45-day notice of lien. A lien will be filed if payment is not made within 45 days and will be accompanied by a 45-day notice of foreclosure. If payment remains outstanding after 45 days, the attorney will pursue foreclosure. Nick Cole moved, and Linda Huber seconded to approve the collection procedure. The motion carried.
Next Meeting: The next Board meeting will be October 13, 2008.
Owner Comments: None.
Adjournment: With no further business to come before the Board, Jay Ward moved, and Nick Cole seconded to adjourn the meeting. The motion carried, and the meeting adjourned at 11:30 AM.
Submitted by,
Sherry Danko
Sherry Danko
For Linda Huber, Secretary