Board Meeting 12/16/2010

Call to Order -- Susan got hold of Frank by speakerphone to establish a quorum. Mike Hogan called the meeting to order. Two motions were immediately made and passed:

First, Len Sirotzki and Tyler Linkenhoker were appointed to fill vacancies on the Board. The vacancies were a consequence of resignations by Wendy Edler and Pat Whitesel.

Second, the Board rescinded the Special Assessment process being planned now that the front pond project is completed at significantly reduced expense.

Board Organization -- Wendy's term was 2009/2010, and Pat's term was 2010/2011. Since the Annual Meeting did not achieve a quorum, all Board members with expiring terms were automatically re-elected. Thus it would seem whoever is appointed to Wendy's vacancy will serve 2011/2012, and whoever is appointed to Pat's vacancy will serve 2011 only. Validating this and deciding which vacancy Len and Tyler have filled was put off to the next meeting.

Also discussed was the suggestion that newly appointed Director Len Sirotzki take over the role of Social Director. The Board was enthusiastic about this proposal, and will include this in the organizational meeting next month.

Pond Repair / SWFWMD Issue -- The large front pond has been re-permitted and re-certified through 5/23/2012. This was done by a new engineer named Chris Lynch after Jayme placed some gravel. The cost of Mr. Lynch's services was $225. A Special Assessment is no longer required.

Susan recounted the events over the past few months, since the September Board Meeting, where several Hawthorn Park residents raised concerns about the actions of ZNS Engineering. Long story short, Susan discussed the pond situation with SWFWMD face-to-face, learned the remediation actions required might be different than previously understood, and involved Director Ray Dalto to also meet with SWFWMD face-to-face. These meetings triggered the Board to get a second engineering opinion, which led to rapid low-cost resolution of this matter.

Mike Hogan terminated our engagement with ZNS Engineering and requested a final bill, which has been paid. The amount paid to ZNS on this project was not immediately available at the meeting. After discussion it was decided that no further action will be taken at this time.

Shirley suggested that dues be raised by $100 per year to bolster our rainy day fund, in case a major pond repair becomes necessary in 2012. Susan confirmed that the budget can be amended at any time by the Board. Mike Hogan viewed the proposal positively, but no action was taken at this meeting.

Financial Report -- Mike Sandstrom reported that our current year Surplus is $9,754. When added to the Surplus from past years, the grand total Surplus right now stands at $41,312. Mike also reported that assessments (dues) past due is standing at $1,485, and one of the homeowners involved is working to pay it down.

Common Grounds -- Mike Hogan authorized Ray to authorize Frank to authorize Jayme to put down some new mulch at the front entrance.

Robinson Farms Development -- Mike Hogan asked Len Sirotzki to summarize the current status. Len explained that the State has approved the County's recommendation to approve the zoning change. However, there is an outside chance that the State's decision can be appealed. Len also gave thanks to Katie Pierola for all she has done to lead the crusade.

Bob Adema asked if anyone knew if the Robinson Farm development would include a street connection to Hawthorn Park's 10th Avenue. Mike Hogan said he believed it would connect, in order to facilitate fire and safety vehicles. Bob suggested a "break-away" device that would prevent normal traffic but would allow emergency vehicles to ram through.

Ditch Clean-Up -- Len Lesjak shared his delight with the County's clean-up of the ditch along 9th Avenue. Len explained why this work helps prevent flooding risks. Len wrote a Thank You letter to the County, which he requested Mike Hogan to sign and send. Mike agreed to send the letter on behalf of the Hawthorn Park Association.

The meeting ended approximately 7:50 p.m.