Thursday, January 10, 2013

2012 Wrap-up and 2013 look ahead

As we enter 2013, the board wanted to review some community milestones from 2012 and share some thoughts looking forward to 2013.  We hope 2012 was enjoyable for you at Island Gate and hope 2013 is even better.

Ten days into 2013 with no snow in the forecast, we haven’t  spend a cent on snow removal since 2011. The budgeted funds for 2012 removal snow instead went for much needed pool furniture replacement.  Our budgeted amount for 2013 is ~10k we expect to use the full amount in 2013, but are hopeful we don’t.  Even with a new less expensive snow removal company.

Over the last 15 months any surface in the community that required paint, sealant, cleaning or repair has been addressed.  The lawn has been aerated twice in that time, almost a ton of grass seed and more than a ton of soil has been spread over our community and hundreds of plants shrubs and trees have been added or replaced.

Over the last 18 months we have accomplished most of our repair and maintenance goals in the community.  The one significant task that remains and hopefully be addressed in 2013 is the replacement of the exterior light fixtures.  We hope to accomplish this in 2013.

We have a new insurance carrier that provided more coverage for less money. As the policy comes up for renewal we are hoping this continues, given all the natural disasters in our area prices may rise significantly, we will keep you informed of any significant changes. 

As far as disasters we have been extremely fortunate to have been spared twice in the last two years.  We hope this continues also.  

Given the completion of most of the urgent community projects we hope to be able to put more money into reserves in 2013 than ever before.

The Board feels confident that the communities’ repair, maintenance and ascetic issues are being addressed.  If you do not agree please let us know, it is crucial you tell us.   

Over and over we find that the most crucial part of success in the community continues to be communication; to our neighbors, vendors, management company, and even each other.  The more we communicate the better things turn out.  Given that if you have a thought, comment, concern, even a critique let us know we will be sure to respond and discuss it.

Early in 2013 we will roll out our final budget for 2013 and actual figures from 2012 and detail more of our goals for the coming year.  Until then we wish you a Happy, Healthy and Prosperous 2013.