OPEN MINUTES
August 20, 2008
Board Members Present: Ellena, Guyer, Smith, P. Smydra
Board Members Absent: Jane
Management Present: Miller, Lyon, Sinicropi
Members: Sign-in sheet available
Meeting called to
order at 6:02 p.m.
MINUTES
Ellena moved, Smydra seconded to accept the July 30, 2008 Open Minutes with corrections. Approved 4-0
Emergency Procedure
Manual
The Board was presented with the following information for review:
a) Property Quick Response Guide developed
by
b) Pages from a reference book from MAHC
Entitled: Developing an Emergency Procedures
Manuel
c) Copy of Family Preparedness Guide from the
Management will use the various materials to develop an Emergency Procedure Manual specifically for Highlands Cooperative Association to be presented at a future Board Meeting.
Utility Usage Survey
Management presented a survey/report from Waterstone Utility
Services concerning utility usage and possible savings identified should
over 10 years.
The Board would like a comparison survey done by another company before any further discussion on this proposal.
Waterstone also proposed the option of installing individual water meters in each unit at total cost of $80,730.00. The Board was in unanimous consensus not to pursue this option at this time.
MEMBER CONCERNS
Georgia Vroman, 6220
Balfour
Ms. Vroman, a member on the Playground Committee, questioned why the committee is no longer having meetings. The Board and Management explained that since the representative from one of the playground equipment companies presented their cost analysis at the March Board meeting; replacement plans had been put on hold until a company offering a better price could be found.
Ms. Vroman was unaware of this event happening, and requested a copy of the minutes and any other pertinent information. Management will follow-up with this request.
Mr. Lyon also announced that he is investigating the possibility of replacing current structures with plastic playground equipment as the cost could be quite less. He will be reporting back to the Board concerning this endeavor.
Ms. Vroman stated that because the kitchen sinks are so shallow and the faucets so low, she often had to use extra water to wash/rinse large dishes and pans; and asked if the Board had ever thought of replacing kitchen faucets with a taller, different style.
Management will look into this idea while researching the utility usage surveys previously mentioned.
Ms. Vroman also asked if the Board had ever considered doing a blood drive for the local Red Cross as blood supplies are extremely low, and they are in great need of help.
Management stated that we have done them in the past, and will follow-up contacting the Red Cross regarding this matter.
OLD BUSINESS
Member Survey
Ms. Ellena presented the Board with a draft for the member survey she has been compiling. She asked if the Board would review it, and contact her with any suggestions or changes. Once this is completed it will go out to the members.
A stamped, self-addressed envelope will be provided with the
survey. It will be addressed to the
Board of Directors, care of the
Highlands 2008-2009
Budget
Management presented a draft of the proposed 2008-2009 budget. This draft represents a $7.00 increase. Mr. Lyons asked that questions and suggestions be directed to him as soon as possible so he is prepared to address them at the September 17, 2008 Board Meeting.
Front Clubhouse
Walkway
Management asked for direction concerning the placement of handrails by the front sidewalk and ramp area. Does the Board want any at all?
Guyer stated concern that people in a wheelchair may not be able to use the sidewalk effectively, especially in the winter months, with out them. It was felt that at least one railing should be installed. Further discussion followed.
Management will investigate what type of railing(s) may be required. If guidelines do not require two railings, at least one railing will installed at this time. Board consensus
OFFICER REPORTS None
Meeting Adjourned at 7:02 p.m.
I certify that this is a true and accurate statement of the Board Meeting of August 20, 2008.
Respectfully submitted,
Jackie Guyer, Secretary, Board of Directors