October 2024 Newsletter
Board Officer Nominations
We are pleased to announce the nominations for your 2024-2025 Board of Trustees:
- President: Bill Graber
- Vice President: Bradley White
- Treasurer: James Mangan
- Co-Secretaries: Anthony Venuto & James Mangan
- At-Large: Vacant
Board Vacancy
We want to inform you that, as of October 8, 2024, we received the resignation of a Trustee. We thank Kurt for his service and wish him the best moving forward. In accordance with our bylaws, the remaining trustees will fill this vacancy by majority vote at a special meeting.
We encourage any owner in good standing who is interested in serving on the Board to submit a letter of interest to the Board by November 1st. This is an excellent opportunity for those passionate about contributing to the future of our community.
Meeting Schedule
We are committed to ensuring transparency and communication with all owners. We will begin virtual meetings in November, with in-person meetings at the clubhouse resuming in May. The Trustees have set the following schedule for open meetings:
- Thursday, November 21, 2024 – Virtual
- Thursday, January 25, 2025 – Virtual
- Thursday, March 20, 2025 – Virtual
- Sunday, May 17, 2025 – In-Person at the Clubhouse
- Sunday, July 19, 2025 – In-Person at the Clubhouse
- Sunday, September 20, 2025 – In-Person at the Clubhouse
Upcoming Priorities
As your newly elected trustees, we are eager to work collaboratively with the community and our key partners to address the immediate needs of Lighthouse Pointe Marina. In our first 30 days, we will focus on the following key areas:
- Board Onboarding: Review bylaws, NJ statutes, and fiduciary responsibilities.
- State of Affairs: Engage with our legal counsel, property manager (PMC), and other key stakeholders to assess ongoing matters.
- Reserve Study: Initiate an updated reserve study to plan for future capital improvements and inform the 2025 budget.
- Formalize Processes: Establish clear procedures for repairs, bids, collections, and other operational matters.
- Dockmaster Role: Finalize and publish the job description for our Dockmaster position.
- Owner Communication: Develop a regular monthly communication system to keep all owners informed of ongoing developments.
A Positive Path Forward
We are excited about the future of Lighthouse Pointe Marina. Though transitional leadership requires time to take effect, we want to assure you that we are actively working to address both immediate and long-term needs. We understand that visible progress takes time, but we are confident that together, we can continue to enhance our community.
Please feel free to contact the Board at info@lhpmarina.org with any questions, concerns, or feedback. We value your input and look forward to working alongside each of you.
Thank you for your continued support!
Sincerely,
The Lighthouse Pointe Marina Board of Trustees
Bill Graber, Bradley White, James Mangan and Anthony Venuto
Dock Master Notes
Effective last billing cycle, the Marina Electric will be adjusted from $0.17 to $0.23 p/kh to reflect increase from AC Electric.
Season ending dates announced
- 10/15: Summer Rent Leases Expired
- 11/3 : Last Pump Out
- 11/8: Water Off - Bathhouse & Outside Showers Winterized
- 12/1: Live-aboard Ends
LHPM January Newsletter From Your Board of Trustees A Note from the Board Welcome to a new year at LHPM! We hope you had a safe and restful holiday season. We always strive to keep you updated on community matters, upcoming projects, and important reminders. Please review the highlights below and don't hesitate to reach out with any questions or concerns. 1. Dockmaster Status & Contact Info Seasonal Hiatus: Our Dockmaster remains off-duty until April 1. Contact the Board: If you notice anything that needs immediate attention or have any concerns, please email the Board directly at trustees@lhpmarina.org . We appreciate your cooperation during this transitional period. 2. D23 Foreclosure Update Blind Bidding Process: The association-owned slip (D23), obtained through foreclosure, has been under a blind bidding process. Successful Bid: We are pleased to announce that the winning bid of $24,500 exceeded the total amount owed. This outcome helps recoup costs and benefits the entire community. Next Steps: The closing process is ongoing, and we will provide final updates once the sale is complete. 3. Engineering & Legal Upper Deck Project: An engineer has been hired to conduct a thorough inspection of the upper deck repair project and provide expert reports for our ongoing counter-suit litigation. Scope of Work: This engineer will also prepare a Scope of Work to guide the completion of the deck project. Reserve Study: As required by New Jersey law, the Board is considering engaging the same engineer for a reserve study, ensuring our community remains financially prepared for future repairs and replacements. 4. First Quarter Assessment Reminder Due Date: The 1st Quarter Common Area Assessment invoices are due no later than January 30 . ACH Withdrawals: Available through PMC and processed on the 15th of each billing month. One-Off Payments: As outlined in the Uniform Collection Policy, you can also arrange a one-time ACH to avoid late fees. Avoid Late Charges: Please ensure timely payment to help maintain consistent cash flow for community operations and improvements. 5. Dredge Permit Progress Finalizing Pending Approvals: Water's Edge LLC will assist in completing the necessary edits to our previously approved NJDEP permit. Army Corps of Engineers: The final step is to obtain approval from the Army Corps, as previous documentation was never fully completed. Moving Forward: Once the permit is complete and all requirements are satisfied, the Board will revisit the dredging plans and schedules. 6. Proof of Insurance & Rental Guidelines Insurance Requirements: All property owners, including those renting their properties, must maintain up-to-date proof of insurance with the association. Signed Lease & Restrictions: Rentals require a signed lease agreement and Renter Restrictions document on file. Fines & Responsibility: Owners are responsible for any penalties/fines resulting from a tenant violating the community's rules. Winter Occupancy Checks: The association will reach out to confirm valid lease documents for any slip occupied during the winter to avoid unauthorized tenants. 7. Upcoming Open Meeting – January 23, 2025 Date & Time: January 23, 2025, at 6:30 PM. Location: Zoom (The Board will send a link via email). Why Attend? We'll discuss recent updates, review community projects, and address owners' questions. Your input is invaluable in shaping the future of LHPM. Stay Connected Board Emails: trustees@lhpmarina.org General Inquiries: info@lhpmarina.org We appreciate your cooperation, feedback, and dedication to making LHPM a welcoming, well-maintained community. Wishing everyone a wonderful start to the new year! Warm regards, Your LHPM Board of Trustees
Dear LHPM Owners, As we settle into the quieter winter season, we’d like to take a moment to update you on the latest developments within our community. We appreciate your ongoing involvement, understanding, and commitment to making LHPM a wonderful place to enjoy life by the water. Personnel Updates Seasonal Staffing Adjustments: As we do each year, our full-time staff members Russ and Jack have been laid off in November. In 2025, we will be cutting payroll expenses by transitioning Russ into a 1099 contractor role, as-needed. This ensures we’ll may still have his expertise available, while maintaining fiscal responsibility. JT will remain on a part-time schedule throughout the winter, working two days each week (up to 10 hours total). His duties will include property walk-throughs, mooring line and bilge checks, spot-cleaning in the Clubhouse, and promptly reporting any concerns back to the Board. Ongoing Oversight: While the property will have limited on-site staffing, members of the Board of Trustees will also stop by periodically for inspections. As always, we value your feedback. If you have any concerns, please don’t hesitate to reach out at: trustees@lhpmarina.org Operational Updates Deck Litigation: The deck litigation process continues, with the formal discovery period wrapping up on February 7th. We will keep you informed as we move forward. Engineering Assessment: We have engaged an engineer to conduct a thorough evaluation of the upper deck repairs and to create a clear Scope of Work for final completion. This ensures that when the time comes to move forward, we will do so with a well-defined plan supported by expert advice. Dredge Permits: Our NJDEP dredge permit requires finalization with the Army Corps of Engineers. Our consultants at Water’s Edge are leading this effort. We will refrain from any dredge-related activity until all proper documentation and approvals are obtained, ensuring we follow best practices and meet all necessary regulatory requirements. Winter Clubhouse Access: Owners who wish to use the Clubhouse this winter can request lockbox access by emailing info@lhpmarina.org. If you choose to use the facility, please remember that you are responsible for leaving it clean and returning the key afterward. Please note that winter leases do not guarantee Clubhouse amenities, so this is an optional convenience rather than a guaranteed service during these months. D23 Unit Update: The deed-in-lieu of foreclosure for D23 is now finalized. Owners have the first right of refusal to submit a purchase bid by December 31, 2024. Please refer to the email sent by our Secretary for more details. Board Updates Vacant Board Seat: We appreciate the thoughtful submissions from qualified owners interested in filling the vacant Board seat. The Board plans to review and finalize a nomination at our Executive Working Session on December 12, 2024. We look forward to welcoming a new member to our dedicated team and continuing our mission to serve the community effectively. 2025 Budget and Assessment: After careful consideration, the Board has approved the 2025 budget and an assessment increase starting in Q1 2025. Going forward, annual increases will generally align with the Consumer Price Index to maintain financial stability and support our reserve funds. This year’s additional increase helps ensure we can meet our operational goals and continue improving LHPM for all owners. Please see the attached deck that explains the budget process in more detail. Next Open Meeting January 25, 2025 at 6:30 PM via Zoom Mark your calendars! We look forward to your participation and constructive dialogue as we plan for an even better year ahead. Delinquency Management & Financial Health November Financials to be posted in the members portal by 12/18 Receivable Balance improved by $36,411 (12/02: $48,466 vs 11/01: $84,877) We are pleased to report that increased clarity, consistent communication, and a compassionate approach have continued to improve our community’s financial health. Reducing arrears not only improves cash flow for operations and upgrades but also fosters a more positive environment for everyone. At a Glance: 26 Properties (8 Owners / 21% of Ownership) are currently in arrears. 3 of 26 Properties Liened (1 Owner / 2.21% of Ownership) remain in arrears. 8 of 26 Properties (3 Owners / 5.47% of Ownership) have approved monthly installments. 18 of 26 Properties (4 Owners / 15.65% of Ownership) are approaching lien status. These figures show that while challenges remain, our shared efforts are making a difference. Together, we can continue to lower these numbers and strengthen our community’s financial stability. In Closing We understand that winter at LHPM brings a different pace and new responsibilities. Thank you for working together with us to maintain a safe, secure, and welcoming environment. Your feedback, initiative, and cooperation ensure that as we enter the new year, LHPM will remain a place we’re all proud to call our home away from home. Warm regards, Your LHPM Board of Trustees
Executive Board Summary - November Newsletter As we reflect on the activities since the recent board election, it’s clear that significant strides have been made across various categories of our operations. We have a clear path forward to continue making progress over the winter months ahead. Please take a moment and review the details outlined below. Activity Since Election Financial Management Property Management Review: Analyzed current service model and identified gaps with PMC. Insurance: Authorized current renewal payments while positioning for competitive bid options for additional renewals in April. Delinquent Accounts: Implemented a uniform collection policy in line with clear standards for escalating to liens and foreclosures. Financial Review: Conducted a thorough analysis of financial statements, including delinquencies and accounts payable. Assessment Analysis: Reviewed operating and special assessments for sustainability. Budget Planning: Drafted the 2025 budget and three-year financial plan. Governance Master Deed Review: Ensured board members are familiar with governing documents. Officer Elections: Elected President, Vice President, Secretary, and Treasurer. Meeting Cadence: Scheduled quarterly owners' meetings and recurring working sessions. Board Transition: Engaged with previous board members for updates on key issues (deck, dredge, HVAC, bulkhead, pool) and facilitated access to communication channels. Legal Counsel Meeting: Reviewed active litigation and existing contracts. Operations Dock Master Position: Developed a job description and performance survey with a clear decision-making matrix (expenses capped at $500). Competitive Quote Policy: Established standard procedures for obtaining quotes for major repairs. Communications Community Involvement: Initiated a monthly letter to owners and developed strategies for increased community engagement. Website Development: Finalized updates to the association website. Safety & Security Lower Deck Safety: Bracing remediation between docks B and C. CCTV Assessment: Evaluating camera functionality and determined cost and timeline for system upgrades. Reminders 10/15: Summer rental agreements expired; new agreements required for winter renters. 11/3: Final pump-out completed. 11/8: Water shut-off and poolhouse winterization. 11/27: Clubhouse secured for winter. 11/27: Staff’s last day of the Season. 12/1: Commencement of no live-aboard period. Upcoming Board Meeting: Date: Thursday, November 21st at 6:30 PM (Virtual). Meeting materials to be distributed on 11/15. Board Vacancy: Owners in good standing are encouraged to submit a letter of interest to serve on the Board. Maintenance Updates Lower deck bracing repaired near C dock Clubhouse walls: Patched primed and painted. Clubhouse railing: Primed and ready for top coat. Water Shut off access panel built near B dock. Trailers removed from the Parking lot. Outdoor shower floors: Scraped and painted . Marina Boat trailer axel repaired. Electric meter readings completed; invoices forthcoming from PMC. Survey Reminder: Please complete the 5-question survey on Dock Master Performance here . Focus over the Next 60 Days Delinquent Accounts: Address and minimize arrears while facilitating member communication. Commercial Property Strategy: Engage with commercial property owners to discuss strategies. Legal Actions: File up to six liens and notify additional accounts of collection notices. Foreclosure Process: Finalize foreclosure on D23 and accept deed in lieu of foreclosure, with plans to list at fair market value. Engineering Review: Engage a professional engineer for deck replacement oversight. Necessary for the ongoing litigation and future completion of repairs. Financial Planning Adopt a share three-year financial strategy including budget and common area assessment schedule. HVAC Repairs: Approve vendor and schedule repairs ahead of the 2025 season. Dredging Options: Conduct a comprehensive review of minimally viable maintenance dredging during the winter. We appreciate your continued engagement and support as we work together to enhance our community. -Board of Trustees: Bill Graber, President Bradley White, Vice President James Mangan, Treasurer & Co-Secretary Anthony Venuto, Co-Secretary Board of Trustee Email: Trustees@lhpmarina.org