The Landings Management Association, Inc.
Chairman Bob Capo called the meeting to order at 7:00 PM at the Landings Racquet Club, 5350 Landings Boulevard, Sarasota, Florida.
Present were Bob Capo, Laurence Spelman, Ted Humphrey, Ray Rakoff, Fred Stanyer, Dee Ricapito, and Jerry McFadden, constituting a quorum. Also present were, Ron Ditch of Argus Property Management, Inc., and a small audience.
The notice was posted in accordance with the Bylaws of the Association and requirements of Florida Statutes.
President’s Report (Bob Capo)
There are still some problems with the wiring at the main entrance, as the lights have been on and off. Work is scheduled this week to replace the remaining old cable in the ground which will eliminate the problems.
The lighting on the island at the Treehouses is also having remedial electric work being completed this week.
We are continuing to look at reconfiguring the north gatehouse to become additional storage. Preliminary estimates put the cost at around $12,000. We will continue to flesh this out, and we will likely be contacting a professional designer- perhaps a design/build contractor or an architect- in order to complete the process.
Treasurer’s Report (Ted Humphrey)
The preliminary 2004 YE reports are indicating a deficit of around $16,000. This takes into account the completed road projects and extensive electrical work completed at the main entry. The $4 monthly increase in 2005 fees will cover it adequately.
There were about twenty-five people who added late fees to their 2005 payments due to a misreading of the coupons. We are in the process of refunding those over-payments. (The coupons are supplied by the bank, and we are requesting a change to avoid future confusion).
Roads and Drainage Report (Don Smally)
(No report)
Safety and Security Report (Ray Rakoff)
The north gate has been having some difficulties due to problems with the antenna.
There was a report of a break-in, but there were questions about the nature of the report, and it has not been substantiated as such. Investigations continue.
Landscape Report (Fred Stanyer)
We are very proud of the new landscape at the front entry. The new annuals are in, and the Pineapple palm (Phoenix canariensis) is a great addition. (Several members of the audience expressed their appreciation for a job well done, and the entire audience gave an enthusiastic round of applause).
Lakes Committee (Jerry McFadden)
Replacement parts are on order for the fountain at Lake 2, and repairs will be completed soon.
(A question was asked regarding stocking the lakes with algae-eating carp.) There has been some discussion about stocking the lakes with carp (large gold fish). It would cost about $600. The fish are sterile, but would live for many years. That discussion has not been concluded at this time.
Nature Trail Committee
The nature trail is need of a good clean up from the storms that hit us this past summer. We will present a full report in the future.
Public Relations Report (Dee Recapito)
There will be a “Newcomers Welcome Party” on January 25th from 6 to 8 pm. One hundred invitations have gone out (representing those who are new to the Landings this past fifteen months. All owners are encouraged attend to get acquainted with our new neighbors (ATTACHED)
Old Business
Annual Meeting and Election
Mr. Spelman reviewed the process of the upcoming Annual meeting:
There will be a truncated Board of Directors meeting at 6:30 pm.
The Members (represented by the presidents of the various governing Boards within the Landings) will meet at 7 pm, and the new members of the Board will be elected. Five seats will be open, with four incumbents standing for re-election.
The new Board will convene immediately following adjournment of the Members meeting for the purpose of electing officers, and appointment of Committee Chairs.
The notices, letters and election package will go out January 20th.
New Business
No new business was introduced.
There were numerous comments and questions from the audience throughout the meeting. Some of the responses follow:
In Mr. Smally’s absence, and in response to a question from the floor, the board reiterated that LMA is not responsible for culverts under driveways.
Kanes will be contacted regarding their dumpsters and keeping their dumpster area in order.
There has been no consideration, nor any discussion whatsoever by this Board to use any part of the eagle preserve as a playground or any other use. Mr. Spelman emphasized that the preserve has been given as a charitable contribution to be kept in perpetuity. This Board rejects the idea of any development in that area, as have all previous Boards.
Larry Spelman Stands Down:
Mr. Capo expressed the Board’s gratitude and deepest appreciation to Mr. Spelman who is standing down after many years of dedicated service and contributions to the Landings Community. The audience seconded the motion with heartfelt applause.
Adjournment
A motion was made and seconded to adjourn the meeting. The motion passed unanimously.
The next meeting is scheduled for February 3, 2005 at the Annual Meeting.
Respectfully Submitted,
Ron Ditch, Acting Secretary