OPEN MINUTES
February 20, 2012
Board Members
Present: Ellena, Guyer, Jane, Moles,
Smith
Management Present: Miller, Lyon, Sinicropi
Members: Sign-in sheet available
Meeting called to
order at 6:00 p.m.
MINUTES
The Open Minutes of January 9, 2012 were table until the March meeting.
Pet Policy
The proposed changes to Highlands’ Pet Policy were discussed and edited.
Ellena moved, Guyer seconded to accept the proposed Pet Policy with corrections. Approved 5-0
Smith Tree & Landscape Services.
The Board reviewed the service agreement with Smith Tree & Landscape Service. Two-thousand twelve (2012) is the seconded year of the five year agreement that was signed on May 2, 2011. The cost of the service for 2012 is $36,651.00. Last year the Board elected to prepay the service saving the Cooperative 5% of the cost.
If the Board elects to take advantage of the 5% savings this year, the cost would be $34,816.45 with a savings of $1,832.55.
Guyer moved, Moles seconded to prepay Smith Trees & Landscape Services $34,816.45 with a savings of $1, 832.55 for the 2012 service agreement year. Approved 5-0
Management is instructed to bring this issue back to the
Board each year for approval.
OLD BUSINESS
Gas Transportation Costs
Mr. Lyon informed the Board that he was able to obtain a gas transportation cost of only $4.20 per mcf for Highlands this year. With gas prices are continuing to rise, this is good news. Gas prices rose 12% in 2011, and are expected to rise 9.5% in both 2012 and 2013. Mr. Lyon warned the Board that future budget’s could be hit hard when gas prices rise if the Cooperative is not prepared for these increases.
Mr. Lyon also informed the Board that as of 2013 all furnaces must have a energy savings rating of 92%. As a result, the cost of furnaces is expected to be much more expensive. Highlands should have about fifteen (15) years before any major replacement is needed. But, the cost will be a significant to the Cooperative.
Porch Lights
Smith inquired if there has been any feedback regarding the new porch lights from the Members that have received them and if both the front and back lights are being installed.
Member, Catherine Runge, 1741 Georgetown also asked if these new porch lights were intended to replace the large lights on the buildings.
Management stated that only a few have made any comments but, Members seem to “love” them. But, reminded the Board that with the lack of snow this has not been a good winter to test the porch lights effectiveness.
Ms. Runge was informed that with these new, brighter, energy-efficient porch lights it is hoped that the larger, more expensive building lights that the Cooperative will save money.
Management will follow-up regarding the installation of both front and back porch lights.
NEW BUSINESS
2011 Audit
Mr. Lyon informed the Board that no problems or ill
regularities were found in Highlands 2011 Audit.
Meeting Adjourned at 6:40 p.m.
I certify that this is a true and accurate statement of the Board Meeting of February 20, 2012.
Respectfully submitted,
Jackie Guyer, Secretary, Board of Directors