Final edition Board meeting notes of February 20, 2018

BOARD MEETING NOTES... February 20, 2018 (FINAL EDITION)

Open Forum consisted of a discussion of excess restaurant equipment salability, the possibility of establishing a fund raising group to fund Savannah Oaks purchases, and a request for donation of some of the restaurant decor for raffle items for Lake/Links.

AQUA had no report.

Matt Studt was formally recognized as the Chief of Public Safety.

Boone County Sheriff Dave Ernst gave a short presentation on the status of the department including the need for additional funding through the sales tax proposal on the March ballot. I hope it passes this time. Law enforcement should be a priority.

Finance Commission reports our standing at the end of January is Operating Cash $1,220,762.83, Operating Investments $824,369.96, Reserve Investments $3,486,072.45. Total Investments $4,310,442.41, and Total Cash $5,521,205.24.

We are currently under budgeted expense by $168,217.30 and over revenue budget $63,764.33, meaning we came out “to the good” by $231,941.63 this fiscal year through the end of January.

Accounting adjustments for January equal $ 0  Write-offs for the month total $$155,753.06. Over $95,000 of that is Boone County owned lots. The rest is difficult to collect items but collection efforts are continuing. Provisions are in place to cover such items in our yearly budgets.

The Finance Commission recommends Wipfli LLP for our annual audit.

Lake Management indicates our Lake Biologist recommends having a meeting of the Grant Commission to review the watershed plan. Egg addling will start in April, volunteers sign up in March.  February 21st Clarke Aquatics will be making a presentation regarding our Milfoil treatment plan for the coming spring, 6:30 at the Rec Center.  More fish structures are planned before ice out. Lake/Links was discussed. Tallgrass will be handling the prescribed bioswale burn this spring.

The Golf Commission discussed possibilities for the Lake/Links event planned for June 10th from noon to five. The new driving range cage has a bent pipe but the fittings are still fine and it is an easy fix. The golf cart corral is in bad shape. Repairs and strengthening of the corral are in the works for spring. Establishing sub-committees was discussed so specific areas of interest can be better addressed. The course has a planned opening for April 13th, weather permitting. The commission would like for Links Management to take care of the grubs, widen the fairway, and make the second cut lower. April 21st first Pub Trivia, May 5 season opener tournament, May 21 Pub Trivia, and May 27 the Memorial Tournament.

The Rec. Commission says Youth Cheer Fit will be starting in May. After school still has 10 to 16 kids in attendance. Cardio Drumming 3 to 4, Pickleball 4 to 6, Mexican Train Dominos 4 to 8, Rummikub attracts 4 to 10 players. Bunco had 20 participants. Lake/Links is planned for June 10th. Discussion was held about playground equipment that needs replacing and installation of a sand volleyball court at Friendship Park.

Events tells us getting the food from McDonalds worked so well for Breakfast with Santa the plan is to continue handling the food in that manner. The cost will be $7.00 going forward. The dues raffle is ongoing with the drawing April 17th at the Board meeting. Valentine Bingo was rescheduled for February 23 due to weather issues. Lake/Links plans were discussed. The operator of the new Lakeside Eatery didn’t attend the meeting so discussion was tabled until next month. Fourth of July celebration will be July 7th this year. Fall garage sale is planned for September 14 and 15.

Public Safety will staff a safety tent for Lake/ Links. Starting in March meeting time will be at 6:30 p.m.

The Roads Commission had no meeting.

Communications indicates Randy Alberts and Dale Mediema are putting together an article about Randy’s experience working behind the scenes at this year’s Super Bowl. Lake/Links will have a booth manned by Communications.

Further decisions regarding the Outpost will be in the hands of the new Board that will be seated for the March regular meeting on the 20th . With over 40% of the Board changing it is appropriate to have the new Board make those decisions.

A resolution was passed purchasing new computers to replace the failing ones. This was a planned replacement reserve purchase.

A resolution was passed instructing the General Manager to sell the decorations from the restaurant area by any means necessary to obtain the best price. The new lessees do not want the Northwoods theme and the association owns the decor. The canoe and snowshoes will be donated to Lake/Links.

A resolution was brought forward to raise the golf cart rental fees by one dollar due to the cost of upgrading to a better and newer cart. Passed.

A resolution selecting an auditing firm for our next audit was passed awarding the bid to Wiplfi LLP for a three year contract.

A resolution contracting with Area Services for our mowing and general landscaping needs was passed. The cost will be the same as last year. They do a fine job.

Ice rescue training will be held February 27th on our lake.

Be sure to watch for official minutes printed in your Candlewick Paper. Thank all of you for your past readership.   Ken

Personal meeting notes January 16, 2018

BOARD MEETING NOTES... January 16, 2018

Open Forum consisted of a question on return on investments,
wanting the restaurant operating, and requirements for being a good board
member.

Beth Penisis from AQUA said there is nothing new to report.

Theresa Balk, G.M. tells us Roland Wood, Chief of Public Safety,
has submitted his resignation effective January 26th. Interviews
are starting for his replacement.

Finance Commission meeting is scheduled for next Tuesday so no report
this month.

Accounting adjustments for December equal $110.00, renters purchased
home. Write-offs for the month total $50.00.

Lake Management indicates test holes were dug through the lake ice
and no vegetation was seen growing. All seems dead or dormant.
The fish shocking results seem to be stable with prior results.
More fish structures are planned to be added this winter.
A meeting was held with the farmer from across Caledonia Road
where we get the runoff for the dip to see if there is an agreement
available to put in buffer strips to filter and slow the run-off into our lake.

The Golf Commission had no meeting, Clubhouse closed and course
closed for the winter

The Rec. Commission had no meeting

Events had no meeting

The Roads Commission had no meeting.

Communications indicates there was not much of substance from the
meeting, just general discussion.

Now it gets complicated…. A survey was taken for property owner input
on whether to allow another operator to open our restaurant. The survey
indicated it would be at no cost to the property owners. That is true as far
as it goes. It does not mention the cost savings of over $200,000 if the
restaurant space is used as the Outpost replacement and the structure
torn down. It also doesn’t indicate our association would not have to
pay insurance, maintenance, utilities, etc. on the outpost. We would not
have to continue contributing to replacement reserves for the building.
That being said, your Board voted Rich Witt yes, Jeff Lutzow absent,
Randy Budreau yes, Chuck Corso yes, Gary Kurpeski yes, Steve Lambright
not yet arrived, and myself no to allowing re-opening the restaurant. The
survey results came back about 90% for allowing the restaurant as expected
given the wording of the question.  

Now the motion to spend up to $25,000 for architectural drawings for
the remodel of the Outpost. The vote failed with Gary Kurpeski’s request
to investigate just a minor necessary remodel costing much less.

A resolution was passed covering the furnace replacement at the Outpost.

A property owner requested permission to park his truck in his driveway
during the very cold weather so he could plug it in so it would start.
The Board allowed the exception only until the road are posted.

Be sure to watch for official minutes printed in your Candlewick Paper.

BOARD MEETING NOTES... December 19, 2017

Open Forum consisted of many comments from attendees wanting the restaurant opened and the Outpost remodeled. One comment was from someone wanting the rocks removed from their ditch due to the shouldering work.

Finance Commission reports our standing at the end of November is Operating Cash $1,203,093.82, Operating Investments $814,333.31, Reserve Investments $3,503,100.45. Total Investments $4,317,433.76, and Total Cash $5,520,527.58.
We are currently under budgeted expense by $141,724.74 and over revenue budget $50,317.05, meaning we came out “to the good” by $192,041.79 this fiscal year through the end of November.
Accounting adjustments for November equal $130.00 due to renters leaving with no replacement. Write-offs for the month total $244.62. Banks only are required to repay six months of dues on repossessions.

Lake Management indicates the leaf pick up was the largest ever even with the rainy weather. February 21 will be the Clarke Aquatics meeting about the spring milfoil treatment. Hopefully there will be a large turn-out. A general discussion was held about wake/surf boards, algae treatment in ditches and creek before it hits the lake, purple loosestrife, can collection, and dredging.

The Golf Commission had no meeting

The Rec. Commission says numbers are the same for after school and karate, Y-Chi class is forming a club, an instructor is needed for poms/dance. Next Bunco is January 19^th, Lake/Links planning is January 23 at 6:30 p.m., dog park winter hours, vaccinations, and insurance are under consideration. Tickets are still available for the Ice Hogs game February 18^th, get the tickets at the Rec Center or fill out the form in the CWL paper.

Events tells us they would like to have kitchen equipment left so they could cook food for events The Board decided to table the motion to sell the equipment at this time. Turkey Bingo was a big success, Breakfast with Santa had a great turn-out, dues raffle starts march 1^st.

Public Safety had no meeting

The Roads Commission had no meeting.

Communications indicates Festival of Lights is now in progress until December 31^st. This will be the last photo contest.

Savannah Oaks Clubhouse is closed for the season as is the course. Welcome back in spring!
The S.O. profit and loss statement for November that covers retail sales shows a gross profit of 84.5%, a reaction due to inventory counting errors in the prior report.
S.O. year to year comparison shows revenue down as expected but the expenses are also down, keeping us ahead by $16,605 compared to last year so we have lowered the losses.

Last month the question arose of allowing golfing walkers onto the golf course during the months the course is closed. The board decided to allow it if it is controlled to allow no harm to the course.

A resolution was proposed funding blueprints to remodel the Outpost at a cost not to exceed $25,000.00.  There was lengthy discussion regarding whether to fund this, leading to the Outpost rebuild. When the vote was taken it failed on a vote of 4 to 3. Yes votes were Rich, Chuck, and Randy.
Communication was received from KLH Construction indicating if the roofline stays as is the savings would be $31,000.00. 

A resolution was passed continuing the golf course maintenance by Links Management at the same cost as last year.

A resolution was discussed proposing installing a new HVAC system for the Rec Center at a cost of $6,436.00 rather than pay $3,800 in repairs on a 13 year old system The board decided to go with the new one.

A resolution was brought forward to table the bid for the bulk of the restaurant equipment so the restaurant space could be re-purposed. There will be a survey of property owners to see if they want a restaurant if it is at no cost to them.

A resolution to re-hire Tallgrass Restoration for stewardship of the no-mow areas and bioswales plus a prescribed spring burn of the same areas at a cost of $8,630.00 was passed by the Board.

Be sure to watch for official minutes printed in your Candlewick Paper.

December 19 Board meeting agenda

BOARD MEETING NOTES... November 21, 2017

 Open Forum consisted of thanks for the leaf drop off, thanks for the great volunteer dinner, thanks for the good work on the roads, please remodel the Outpost, try another restaurant operator, Neighbors Helping Neighbors is in full swing, want to golf off season, want to snow ski in the winter on Savannah Oaks course.

Employee service awards were presented to Matt Studt and Kevin Aten, both from our Public Safety Department and both for ten year’s tenure. Congratulations to both for a job well done and adding to the professionalism of our department.

Beth Penisis from AQUA said old meters are still being changed out and should be done around the first of the year. Those affected have been notified.

Finance Commission reports our standing at the end of October is Operating Cash $1,830,863.17, Operating Investments $214,388.04, Reserve Investments $3,506,344.29. Total Investments $3,720,732.33, and Total Cash $5,551,595.50.
We are currently under budgeted expense by $112,910.08 and over revenue budget $49,933.88, meaning we came out “to the good” by $162,903.96 this fiscal year through the end of October.
Accounting adjustments for October equal $225.00 due to renters leaving with no replacement. Write-offs for the month total $1,333.96. Banks only are required to repay six months of dues on repossessions.

Lake Management indicates the blue/green algae warning is now over, weeds are down, and fishing has been good. Leaf collection was strong again this year even with the rainy weather. ( It will be interesting next year to see if participation drops with the sanitary service no longer charging for pick up if the paper bags are used.) Fish shocking was handled and a report will be released soon indicating he health and strength of the population. Spring shocking will be in May and be held more toward evening so more large fish will be in the shock areas. We have received our fish delivery. 750 Smallmouth, 2,000 Walleye, and 2,745 Crappie. Maintenance will spray designated areas before the spring planting of additional bioswale at Whiting Park and Firefly Bay.

The Golf Commission has provided wishes for the next season. They would like a storage shed outside so it is not so cramped, sound absorbing ceiling tiles to cut the amount of noise in the clubhouse, expand the food menu, and be open weekends through the Super Bowl. They promise to start new events to draw enough people to make the extra hours not be a net loss. Not all wishes of course are met but some will be. We also are passing a reso to rent higher quality, newer carts for the golfers in the coming years.
Steve Johnson and Don Trippiccio will now co-chair the commission. Chuck Corso will no longer be on the commission. The next commission meeting will be February 7^th.

The Rec. Commission says an average of 19-23 kids are using after school daily. Yo-Chi is averaging 3 people per week, Cardio Drumming is averaging 7, and Karate has seven kids and seven adults. Bunco had 17 in attendance in October. Kite Fest had limited success. Candlewick has a block of tickets for the Ice Hogs game of February 18^th. Information will be forthcoming in the paper about how to purchase seats. Next meeting November 30 at 6:30 p.m. at the Rec Center.

Events says Saturday, December 16^th, will be Breakfast with Santa. Breakfasts will be purchased from McDonalds for the event. There will be gifts for the kids as well. Kathi is handling this procurement. Holiday light judging will be December 18^th. There have been resignations from the commission and a reorganization.

Public Safety is considering a monthly focus on a specific subject, such as fire safety, holiday safety, boat safety, etc. Guest speakers will be sought to promote the monthly themes.

The Roads Commission had no meeting. Shouldering continues and most road work is done for the year at this point. There was, however, a resolution to pay William Charles Construction $21,296.00 for additional work we had requested. Funds will come from our replacement reserves. Motion carried.

Communications indicates the Festival of Lights opens December 1^st. We have a yearly display at Sinnissippi Park in Rockford. The plan is to start Candlewick advertising in the Daily Herald in May for the year’s promotion.

The Golf Course report from Tom Schneider says the course is prepped for winter. Lines are blown out, mower reels are being removed for sharpening, and they are waiting until the last minute to spray the greens to stop snow mold so it should last the entire winter. The course is in good shape.

Savannah Oaks Clubhouse reports there have been some complaints about no New Years Eve party this year. (It should be pointed out there is a party at the Rec Center as usual to attend) 20 people played the final tournament of the season. The Halloween Party was a great success. Pub trivia had a good turnout. The clubhouse is closed for the year at this point.
The S.O. profit and loss statement for October showed some problems. Some of the department’s profits made no sense. There is either a problem with counting inventory or we have a pricing problem. Pro Shop showed less than $20.00 per week in sales. The overall gross profit mix is good but specific areas need work.
S.O. year to year comparison showed some deterioration. We are still in better shape than last year to date by about $22,000 less loss than 2016 but that has deteriorated from last month due to an invoice from Links Management that carried into this period. Savings are strictly from cost cutting measures put in place by the Board last year for this season. Revenues are down fiscal year to date.

The date set for the budget hearing and candidate forum will be February 11 next year. That is before the ballots are mailed.

A resolution was proposed funding blueprints to remodel the Outpost at a cost not to exceed $25,000.00. The Board again tabled the reso wanting more information. (I have to comment: when there is a very viable alternative to the Outpost rebuild I can not in good conscience vote to spend around a quarter million of our property owners’ dollars for the rebuild or even take the ten dollars or so from each property owner simply to fund the blueprint for the project before even a hammer is picked up.)

A resolution was passed covering the contracted cost of work-out equipment maintenance by Direct Fitness Solutions.

A new contract was approved with Hadler to be our golf cart supplier for next 6 years.

A resolution was passed designating Blue Cross/Blue Shield as the insurance provider for our employees in the coming year.

A resolution was passed putting into effect our updated Board policy. Revisions started a year ago in Board workshops and it is now set to go.
A resolution was passed funding another culvert repair and other remediation that is affecting a property owner’s home. Funding will be from our Replacement Reserves.

Be sure to watch for official minutes printed in your Candlewick Paper.

November 21, 2017 Board meeting agenda

Board personal notes 10-17-2017

BOARD MEETING NOTES... October 17, 2017

Open Forum consisted of myself publicly thanking Chief Wood for helping my son get off the floor after another fall. I was out of town and he came to help in my place. I very much appreciated it.
A P.O. Asked about removing the thruster posts from the dip inlet this year so the kids could ice skate. A question was raised about why we are changing the roof line on the Outpost rather than saving money keeping the same roof line. Another question was about restaurant equipment for the S.O. Clubhouse and a couple adjacent buildings.



Finance Commission reports our standing at the end of September is Operating Cash $1,903,497.54, Operating Investments $400,162.65, Reserve Investments $3,574,768.77. Total Investments $3,974,921.42 and Total Cash $5,878,418.96.
We are currently under budgeted expense by $94,227.36 and over revenue budget $51,219.47, meaning we came out “to the good” by $150,448.83 this fiscal year through the end of September.
Accounting adjustments for September equal $470.60 due to rental properties not currently rented. Write-offs for the month total $557.98.



Lake Management indicates the lake level is down and weeds seem to be growing again. Leaf collection will be November 4 and 18. Show up at maintenance at 9 to help out. Budget requests include more money for additional bioswale plantings, a dock extension behind the Rec Center, and lake treatments by Clarke Aquatics. Fish stocking will be 750 Small Mouth Bass, 1245 Crappie, and 2000 Walleye. The kid's fishing tournament will be held June 10, 2018 from 10:30 to noon (just before Lake/Links).



The Golf Commission asks for $10,00 for another grounds person, $3,500 for a storage building with refrigeration, $6,500 for a pole building so carts can be out of the weather. They would like the kitchen equipment from the restaurant for their use. They would like the Clubhouse open all year. This will be discussed in the Board's upcoming budget meeting.



The Golf course report shows the losses are $28,993 less than last year so we are gaining on it but the savings are from expense reductions, not revenue growth, so as with golf courses in general it is a tough market.



The Rec. Commission says After School is averaging 19 to 23 kids, Yoga has 5, Cardio Drumming has about 6, Karate 7 kids and 7 adults. Go Glo Run had 32 walkers meaning $160.00 revenue and spent $205.77 to run the event. Bunco has 16 participants in September.



Events went over the Lake/Links event and there was substantial dissention regarding the change of date which took the date used prior by Vino/Vintage. First Responders Picnic will be after the Fourth of July parade. Turkey Bingo will be November 17^th. Dandy Donuts (Dan and Mary) will be supplying the food at no cost (thank you) and any donations will go to the fireworks fund.

The Roads Commission had no meeting but Randy indicated there werer two miles of noicrosurfacing, 1.6 miles of two inch overlay, 3.2 miles of shouldering work. Culverts were also repllaced.



The Golf Course report from Tom Schneider says lack of rain had become a problem and watering has increased. The greens look good but the tees and fairways are not as good as they would like. The tees will be aerated and wetting agent used to impove the functionality. Greens have been aerated.



The Board discussed what to do with the restaurant space that is soon to be vacated. It was decided since it is not a viable space for a restaurant we will sell all the unneeded equipment and set up a catering kitchen area, needing little changes to the existing space. &&&&&&&&



The Outpost ADHOC recommends to the Board remodeling the Outpost as was suggested at the last Board meeting rather than tearing it down and replacing it. (This was the proposal obtained by the board that was within budget) They also would like to have a town hall for P.O. Input.



The Outpost remodel was again discussed. The board decided to see if there are better costs avilable if we were to skip the roof tear off and profile replacement. We will see the cost variences before going for blueprints and possibly proceeding.



Savannah Oaks Clubhouse reports there have been some complaints about the shorter hours and the tees being too hard. The Labor Day tournament went well with 19 men and one lady participating. First place was a tie so the prize was split. Pub Trivia had a good turn out. The Halloween Party will be October 28 starting at 8 p.m.



A resolution was passed funding the emergency culvert replacements from the replacement reserves.



A resolution was passed covering maintenence truck installation of a carbon steel bed floor overlay. Cost is from replacement reserves.

Be sure to watch for official minutes printed in your Candlewick Paper.

PERSONAL BOARD MEETING NOTES... September 19, 2017

BOARD MEETING NOTES... September 19, 2017

Open Forum consisted of questions on the Outpost building staying under budget, getting other bids, and fixing the lake problems for next year.



The AQUA update indicated the manhole repairs are underway but one is on backorder and may be a problem.



Finance Commission reports our standing at the end of August is Operating Cash $1,924,023.32, Operating Investments $400,149.47, Reserve Investments $3,577,037.79. Total Investments $3,977,186.80 and Total Cash $5,901,210.18.
We are currently under budgeted expense by $71,994.82 and over revenue budget $44,378.75, meaning we came out “to the good” by $116,373.57 this fiscal year through the end of August.
Accounting adjustments for August equal $925.60 due to rental changes Write-offs for the month total $279.96.
Just as a side note, Savannah Oaks is operating better this year, cutting the losses by over $14,500 compared to 2016. Nice to see!



Lake Management indicates lake conditions have improved but we still have weeds and blue/green algae. Budget requests will be for additional bioswale plantings in Firefly Bay and Whiting Park. Clarke Aquatics will be performing a systemic treatment in the spring with a community meeting prior to the treatment so all can understand the plan. Additional treatments may be needed throughout the year as well to stay on top of the situation. Leaf collection will be November 4^th and 18^th. A request was made for two "NO FISHING BETWEEN SIGNS" for the beach area.



The Golf Commission would like some signage for holes 5 and 7 so new people will know where to go. Signage is also needed for the driving nets. Sand has arrived for the traps. The commission questioned the timing of watering and why only greens are watered. The last tournament of the season will be October 14^th and the annual Halloween Party is the 28^th.



The Rec. Commission says it would like for the board to fund Lake/Links as an annual event to be held the second Sunday in June when gates are open for open houses. Granted. After school started August 17^th with 20 kids enrolled. Yoga started August 30 with 5 signed up. Cardio Drumming started September 6^th. Karate had seven kids and seven adults this season. Preschool was cancelled due to low enrollment. Biggest loser has 8 signed up. Glo Go Run will be September 23. Registration at 6:30 at the S.O. Clubhouse and a $5.00 fee per entry. Lake/Links gave 123 boat rides, 1,135 tickets sold for kid's activities at ten cents each. Cost for the event was about $1,700.00



Communications discussed asking the Board to have the gates open for the kite flying October 15^th from 11 to 4 for the postponed Chicago Kite event. The board agreed. The picture contest has not garnered enough participation to warrant it's continuance.



Public Safety tells us they would like to see the citations published in the paper broken into groups of Public Safety and Building violations. The board decided to investigate the possibility further. Signs were requested for two areas stating " CAUTION CHILDREN PLAYING." The board agreed.

The Roads Commission had no meeting but the road paving, shouldering, culverts, etc. are continuing as per the project.



The Golf Course report from Tom Schneider indicates the course is still playing well and they are having to water the heck out of it due to no rain. A section of the pump intake line had to be replaced due to failure.



The Outpost remodel was again discussed. This became a lot more complicated during the last five days. A couple of us on the Board have recently been working with Kirk Hollembeak about our desires for remodeling the Outpost. Kirk put a lot of work into this and came up with what I consider a good proposal that covered our needs well and kept us on budget. We would have an attractive, functional, building that would be an asset to our community.
Dandy Donuts Lakeside had requested a meeting with Theresa and myself to discuss the restaurant. That was on Thursday, September 14^th. They knew we were close to making a decision on the Outpost and wanted us to know their plans prior to the vote. Dan and Mary have decided for a variety of reasons to vacate the space after November 18^th of this year. They have worked very hard not only in the restaurant but also through volunteerism and donations. They deserve a lot of thanks from our community. They are great people that intend to stay involved in bettering Candlewick.
Prior to speaking with Dan and Mary about leasing the space three or so years ago there was discussion on the board about simply razing the Outpost and using the restaurant space for the same purpose as the Outpost. The idea was dropped because so many people felt we really need a restaurant here. That has proven a false assumption. The support is not here for even a short hours facility. If it could be done Dan and Mary would have accomplished it.
The idea of using it as rental space has now become a viable option once again and the board decided to investigate the modification cost for the restaurant area while tabling the Outpost bid for the next meeting. The view from the room is breathtaking. It has a gas fireplace. The kitchen area can be set up for the same use as the Outpost and can be locked off except for special uses. It has video monitoring. The space is a little smaller but not much and the patio is there as well to use. There will not be additional utility costs. No need to insure a new building. No Outpost to maintain. Our employee would already be on site during the usage. So many positives to this idea.
Dan stated he would be happy to help set up the kitchen area as needed for our use. Most of what we need is already in the kitchen so very little expense involved.
Let's get into the numbers. If we go with using the restaurant space and teardown of the Outpost we can save around $200,000 even with the lastest bid after the cost of razing that eyesore of an Outpost. That money could stay in the replacement reserve account to offset some of the shortfall that will show in our lastest reserve study that was completed this year. Another factor will be there is no need to put a remodeled Outpost in the reserves with contributions each year for future replacement. Even more savings! More information coming at next month's Board meeting. No decision yet.



New East Gate signage is now in and looking great! Try to take a look at night while it is lighted.



Savannah Oaks Clubhouse reports Lake and Links went well with a putting contest, mini horse cart rides (43), and a ping pong ball drop with the Berdis family winning $208.00



Caledonia Road clean up is set for Tuesday, September 26^th at 4:30 p.m. Help is always needed and appreciated! Meet at the West gate for supplies.



The AQUA proposal for a rate increase was discussed. The Attorney General is involved but not a lot of new information at this time.



A resolution was passed regarding testing for the pavement and culvert work. Payment will come from replacement reserves.



A resolution was passed contracting for a service plan regarding the computerized watering system at Savannah Oaks. Again, budgeted and paid from replacement reserves.



A resolution was passed contracting with Clarke Aquatics for next year's treatment of our lake Milfoil as well as lake testing and "bump treatments" as necessary to stay on top of the situation. Expensive... not to exceed $60,000 and this will not come from reserves. It is from our operating account. This is an unplanned expense that must be budgeted next year. Be sure to thank whomever brought this into our lake on their boat!

Be sure to watch for official minutes printed in your Candlewick Paper.

Board meeting agenda of September 19, 2017

Can't win 'em all! The weather bit us.

August 15 Board meeting personal notes

BOARD MEETING NOTES... August 15, 2017

Open Forum consisted of mainly concerns about the condition of the lake and methods being used to remedy it. Closer spraying, upstream improvements including purchasing land above the dip stream to curb the inflow with plantings and other measures. Some good suggestions were aired. Discussion was also held about paving the golf path in sections and doing some drainage work for some of the path areas. In general allocating more funds for the course.



The AQUA update indicated the work had begun Tuesday paving the road cuts they have made and the seeding and landscaping should be finished the first week of September on James and Galahad.



Finance Commission reports our standing at the end of July is Operating Cash $1,969,513.65, Operating Investments $400,145.85, Reserve Investments $3,679,201.57. Total Investments $4,079,347.42 and Total Cash $6,048,861.07.
We are currently under budgeted expense by $64,465.98 and over revenue budget $38,205.44, meaning we came out “to the good” by $102,671.42 this fiscal year through the end of July.
Accounting adjustments for July equal $600.00 due to two homes that were rentals now being owner occupied. Write-offs for the month total $452.75 due to banks only being required to pay 6 months of common expenses and charged citation after assessment paid.



Lake Management indicates the grant application was submitted for cooperative funding of modification of the area above the "dip", remediating some of the run off sedimentation as well as nutrient feed into the lake that promotes algae blooms and weed propogation. Will we get the grant? Doubtful since this is a non-priority year for our geographical location.
Lake conditions are improving but many residents are unhappy with the lake condition (as am I) as well as the chemical treatment of the lake. It is still not as it should be but all reasonable measures are being taken. We must live with a less than perfect lake until this milfoil problem is under control. Remember, this is a self inflicted wound by one or more of our residents that brought this scourge into our lake from elsewhere. It is ugly and expensive.
The fish stocking request for next year will be $10,000. The early fish shocking survey was discussed. This report is where the information is obtained leading to the stocking necessary to retain a good fishery. The next fish shocking is planned for September or October. Some additional monies may be requested for more bioswale plantings at Whiting Park.
Leaf collection dates will be November 4^th and 18^th this year. Volunteers always welcomed.



The Golf Commission recommends John Stern be an alternate member. The top budget request for next year will once again be paving of the cart paths. The youth league tournament had ten participants in each age group. No tournaments in August.



The Rec. Commission says yoga will run from August 30 to October 4^th. Summer camp is having 6 to 13 kids per day. Lap swimming is producing very low numbers and will be re-evaluated for next year. Bunko is August 18^th. The last Bunko had 16 participants. The next meeting will be August 24^th at 6:30 p.m. for anyone interested.



Communications discussed how to get and retain members. My comment, the time of day for the meetings is a problem for many. Candlewick promotional ads will continue to run twice per month. Lake and Links discussed.



Public Safety tells us Dan Calhoun is now a member of the Public Safety Commission. The commission feels "CAUTION CHILDREN PLAYING" signs should be placed in some areas. Recommendation to follow.

The Roads Commission had no meeting but the 4 tubes by Savannah Oaks have been replaced because the area was sinking. It was a good job finished ahead of schedule. The tube that failed on Candlewick Drive after the heavy rain was also replaced and we will be replacing three more due to deterioration. This is very expensive work but if not repaired it can be not only a danger but also a liability to your association. The two inch overlay will also be starting soon so there will be some traffic disruption but as usual it will be handled with as little inconvenience as possible.



The Golf Course report from Tom Schneider indicates the course is in great shape. Keeping up with mowing and spraying. Also doing some maintenance work on sand bunkers and cart paths.



The Outpost remodel was again discussed. We should.... underline should ... have a couple prices by our next meeting but this is like pulling teeth getting specs and bids on this.



New East Gate signage is in the manufacturing process so we are waiting for completion.



Savannah Oaks Clubhouse reports Pub Trivia pulled in 56 participants. The driving nets are set to go and working well. Lots of use. Lake and Links will be August 27^th with a ping pong ball drop and a putting tournament.



The AQUA proposal for a rate increase was discussed. The judge has sided with the ICC and AQUA, ruling against the requested public hearing. Not much more can be done at this point besides comment online to the ICC and hope for some reduction from the requested rate increase, which I expect will be mitigated to some extent.



A resolution was passed to replace three more culverts in danger of failure prior to the overlay project to avoid tearing up the road after paving. Payment will come from replacement reserves. Culvert replacements this year will surpass $100,000.00. This is why we must have solid reserves.



A resolution was passed to replace windows that rotting out in the pool bath house. Again, from replacement reserves.

Be sure to watch for official minutes printed in your Candlewick Paper.

I was asked to pass this along

 Anyone interested in planning is invited to attend.   Ken

Not that it helps, but we are not alone

These are a couple views of the north end of Pierce Lake at Rock Cut Park, about ten miles from Candlewick. Ugly, isn't it. Try to boat or fish in this!
Ken

Looking North

Looking South

This is the last week's stats. At least the Russians like me!

You figure it out. Makes no sense to me!
Ken

Thank you for the emails.

 It appears there is still enough interest in my personal board meeting notes for me to continue publishing them. I post on my blog so little now I wasn't sure if many people bothered to look at them. 
Ken

Board meeting agenda 8-15-2017

Please drop me an email

 If you still have an interest in reading my personal notes from our board meetings please let me know. Time is really a problem for me but I am happy to continue if enough people are interested. If not that is fine as well.
 Thanks,  Ken

Tube replacement.. fighting machines!

Candlewick "National Night Out"

Barb Appelhans was kind enough to share some pictures of the Night Out event here in Candlewick. I was unable to attend this one but she tells me there was a good turn out. It was a great opportunity to meet our Public Safety force as well as Boone County law enforcement including a canine officer.

Personal board notes from July 18, 2017

BOARD MEETING NOTES... July 18, 2017

Open Forum consisted of A request for a speed bump on Rochester due to speeding and accidents in that area. One gentleman requested the 90 horse motors for boats be denied for lake use. A lady asked the opposite, that the 90 horse be allowed. A gentleman asked our plan for lake remediation next year to avoid another problem like this year.



The AQUA update consisted of Beth Penisis passing out a list of answers to questions from their open house meeting explaining their rate request.



Finance Commission reports our standing at the end of June is Operating Cash $1,979,664.45, Operating Investments $400,142.56, Reserve Investments $3,636,884.16. Total Investments $4,037,026.74 and Total Cash $6,016,691.19.
We are currently under budgeted expense by $52,125.80 and over revenue budget $7,587.14, meaning we came out “to the good” by $59,712.94 this fiscal year at the end of June.
Accounting adjustments for June equal $456.62. Write offs for the month are $35.00



Lake Management indicates they are waiting for information from Floating Island International regarding a proposed natural biofilter for the area above the dip. Clearwater Harvester was out last weekend harvesting a lot of the floating debris and coontail. Milfoil and algae is being chemically treated in house and the skimmer will continue with algae removal as well. If you noticed Clearwater had the same problem as our Ecoharvester. About thirty very expensive hours on the lake, a huge amount of weeds taken from the surface, and still there is much more.



Events reports Vino and Vintage was a huge success. $1,000 was donated to Boone County Animal Services. No incidents in the 4^th of July parade. Lake/Links will be August 27^th. First Responders picnic will be held September 30 from 5:30 to 7:30 at Dandy Donuts. It will be called Pasta 'Preciation an will be for first responders and their families with food available for purchase by other attendees. Laketoberfest is already rolling with 22 vendors signed up plus 95.3 "The Bull" and Manley Motors already signed on as sponsors. This is an October event.



The Golf Commission had no meeting but Chuck Corso went over the results to date and we are gaining ground, looking better even with the rainy weather.



The Rec. Commission says Karate numbers have dropped in youth class but staying consistant in the adult classes. Summer camp is running 6 to 13 kids per day. 23 dogs are registered for the dog park. The baby pool is maintaining water level so things are fine there after the repairs. Bunco has 18 participants in June. Playgrounds have been mulched. The new pergola is up and looking good.



Public Safety says they are preparing for the August 1^st National Night Out event. This is normally a free ice cream evening event for all to meet the members of our Public Safety Department.

The Roads Commission had no meeting but Randy Budreau updated the board on the status of the culvert replacement on Candlewick Drive by Savannah Oaks. Replacement is expected to begin in mid August with plans to finish just prior to the opening of schools. We are going out for bids on the overlay road work to hopefully start around the same time. The 2 inch overlay will continue on Candlewick Drive to Stanford Way plus some patching and shouldering work.



The Golf Course report from Tom Schneider shows conditions are ripe with the rain, heat, and humidity to promote disease on the course but they are remaining proactive and preventative. The weather has also made weed spraying much more difficult but they are doing the best they can.



The Outpost rebuild was again discussed. The blueprints needed for going out for bids have yet to appear so other contractors are being contacted with the parameters of the remodel so they can submit the necessary information and get the ball rolling. We need to get a board vote up or down soon so this can be started by fall if it is a yes vote.



New East Gate signage. All the necessary permits are in place so the manufacturing process can begin. We hope you will be seeing it in three months or so. It will be attractive.



Savannah Oaks clubhouse reports the Youth League will be having a tournament August 5 with lunch afterward. June Pub Trivia has a count of 42 participants. Food sales have been strong. The new driving nets are now up and being used. August 27 will feature a ping pong ball drop and a putting tournament with Lake/Links.



There was a second reading of the policy change for lake horsepower limit. It is proposed to go from 75 h.p. To 90 h.p. The vote was taken and the change was approved with a 5-1 vote. I was the dissenting vote.



There was a second reading of a policy change regarding citations for businesses called in by property owners. The change to the rule passed with a unanimous vote. Now businesses that enter going to more than one property will be personally ticketed rather than the P.O. And if they do not pay in thirty days they will be barred from Candlewick. This is fair,



The AQUA proposal for a rate increase was discussed. Your board has petitioned the ICC for an open hearing so all can be heard on the issue. This will be months away if granted but the ball is rolling.

Be sure to watch for official minutes printed in your Candlewick Paper.