hemlock farms election supplement 2015

Candidates for the Board of Directors

HFCA Election Notice The rights of members, including members of the Board of Directors and its advisory committees,

to petition and vote are automatically revoked if the member is in default of any monetary obligation owed to the Association. The member’s right(s) to petition and vote shall be restored after all defaults have been cured

as determined by the Board of Directors. (See Bylaws Article 2, Section 2.5)Three valid petitions were submitted to the Corporate Secretary this year. Accordingly, there are three candidates

for election to the three open seats on the Board. They are Jeffrey Ferretti, Karen Wilshinsky Griffiths, and Michael Spitzer. Information about each of these candidates can be found in this Election Insert.

Jeffrey

FERRETTIpage 3E

Karen Wilshinsky

GRIFFITHSpage 3E

Michael

SPITZERpage 3E

ELECTION 2015H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H

H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H

HH

VOTE ON Saturday, July 11: 11:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m.Sunday, July 19: 10:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m.

2E • J U N E 2 0 1 5 H E M L O C K N E W SH H H ELECTION 2015 H H H

TABLE OF CONTENTS

SERVING APPROXIMATELY 4,000 HOMEOWNERS and lot owners of Hemlock Farms.

Published monthly by the HEMLOCK FARMS COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION,

1007 Hemlock Farms, Lords Valley, PA 18428.

EDITOR: Connie KernNEWS STAFF: Mary Beth Connors, Kathie WaibelPRODUCTION: MKmediaCOPY EDITOR: Mary Huber

BOARD OF DIRECTORS:Robert Wolff, President

Anne Marie Zenie, Vice PresidentMichael Spitzer, Treasurer

Pete Ferris, Assistant TreasurerGloria Talman, Secretary

Lyn AttreedPhil Blecker

Jeffrey FerrettiRobert Treptow

Official Publication of the HEMLOCK FARMS COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION • www.hemlockfarms.orgO f f i c i a l P u b l i c a t i o n o f t h e H E M L O C K F A R M S C O M M U N I T Y • w w w . h e m l o c k f a r m s . o r g

HemlockNewsClose Enough Far Enough

The Perfect Place To Be

A Supplement of

Elections Committee Prepares for HFCA 2015 Vote .................................................2

Candidate Statements ...................................................3

Annual Membership Meeting Agenda .........................4

Annual Membership Meeting Minutes ........................6

Recessed Annual Membership Meeting Minutes ........8

Photo by Kathie WaibelToro RTV service will be available at the Steer Barn Clubhouse between the parking area and the upper level for those who need assistance to vote.

By GAIL BLAU-KALMAN, Election Committee Chairperson

As July approaches, preparations are being made for the 2015 Hemlock Farms Community Asso-ciation elections. We begin the process with the Candidates’ Forum on June 20 at the new time of 2 p.m. in the Steer Barn Clubhouse. This event is organized for the members to hear how the can-didates feel about issues that concern our lives at Hemlock Farms. Each candidate will present an opening statement as well as answer questions that represent topics of interest that will be asked informally by the members. This will be done in small groups to help the membership better know those who are soliciting your votes. After these discussions, refreshments will be served. This will be a time to individually meet the candidates and talk about your concerns.We also offer an Alternative Voting procedure

to provide more availability to those who cannot be here on the regular two voting days. This starts on Friday, June 26, at the HFCA Office. You are required to bring a photo identification and be a member in good standing. Some mem-bers choose to make their selections immediately in the office; others take the ballot home and return it later. If you do not return your alterna-tive voting ballot, you are still entitled to vote in person. Alternative voting ends on Wednesday, July 8, at 3:00 p.m.The administrative business of the Annual Meet-

ing, which is required by the Bylaws, will be held at 10 a.m. on Saturday, July 11, in the Clubhouse. All members are encouraged to attend. We espe-cially need the attendance of multiple-lot owners, as we need a 100-vote quorum to open the meet-ing. With Alternative Voting, this has sometimes been a challenge. This year, the Association will begin the day with a “thank you” breakfast at 8:30 a.m. for those who have served as volunteers in the community.Regular voting begins in the Clubhouse Large

Art Room, once the Annual Meeting has been

closed. Our members will be able to vote for the three Board candidates of their choice as well as three propositions. See the Annual Membership Meeting Agenda on page 4E of this insert for the complete explanation of the propositions. All three propositions win or lose by a simple major-ity.Please remember to bring your signature iden-

tification and have your dues and fines paid in order to be eligible to vote. Anyone who does not provide signature ID will be turned away.As in the past, we will have a Toro RTV vehi-

cle to bring less-abled members from the Steer Barn parking lot to the upper level Clubhouse entrance. From there, it is a flat walk to the voting area. There will be an elevator operator to assist anyone who needs to get up to the second level for voting or meeting attendance.I hope to see as many of you as possible at both

the Candidates’ Forum and voting. This is your time to have input into how Hemlock Farms is run. Your vote matters here!

Elections Committee Prepares for HFCA 2015 Vote

H E M L O C K N E W S J U N E 2 0 1 5 • 3EH H H ELECTION 2015 H H H

CANDIDATE STATEMENTS

Michael SPITZER

I am the current Trea-surer of the HFCA Board of Directors seeking reelection to the Board.

When my family built a home in Hemlock Farms 10 years ago, we first enjoyed its beauty, and the many cultural and recreational activities, and soon took an active role in community life.

I joined the Finance Committee, and have been a very proactive member as well as vice chairperson. I have served as the Board Liaison to the Finance, OPPI, and Architecture committees, as well as a member and/or chairperson of many ad hoc and sub-committees, many of which deal with the fiscal well being of the commu-nity. These include: Information Technology; Financial Management Planning; HFCA Audit Committee; Long Range Planning; Replacement Reserve Review; Revenue Enhancement; Project Funding; and Alternative Voting. As chairperson of the Purchasing sub-committee, I led the drive to establish protocols and improvements to HFCA’s procurement procedures. I am the treasurer of the Hem-lock Farms Conservancy.

I authored the Board’s Ethics Policy, which ensures that Board members adhere to a high personal/professional standard, while also ensuring Board transparency to com-munity members.

The next Board will be addressing critical financial decisions including the budget, stormwater management, maintenance and improvement of the infrastructure, and the possible creation of a Municipal Authority. I believe that my life experiences, qualifications, and decision-making capabilities are all assets to the Board in address-ing these issues.

My professional background prepared me well to serve on our Board of Directors. As the former Assistant Comp-troller of the City of New York, and the City’s Chief Accountant before that, I was responsible for the design and implementation of the City’s current accounting system; coordinated the audit of the City by an indepen-dent accounting firm; promulgated new accounting rules for the City; and issued accounting directives affecting City agencies. Upon my retirement, I was called back by the Mayor to serve on the City’s Audit Committee. I dedi-cated my entire career to all aspects of the City’s fiscal strength and integrity, by analyzing finances, auditing, preparing financial statements, anticipating issues, and then finding solutions.

I believe my skills will serve you well, but even more, listening to your comments and suggestions, has, and will continue to help me in the task of making Hemlock Farms the best it can be, now and for generations to come.

I hope I can count on your vote.

Jeffrey FERRETTIAllow me to introduce

myself. I have resided in Hemlock Farms since 1979 as an owner. My parents and I have homes here, along with my son, brother, and cousins. After serving a few years on the OPPI and Public Safety Committees, I felt and was encouraged to become more involved and run for our Board of Directors, of which I am currently a member. I also attend most of the other committees as often as possible to see firsthand what the committees’ needs are from the member view.

It is important to myself, friends and family, to enhance the great efforts our Board is doing and help make our community a better place to live. I am 57 years old and married to Shari. She has two amazing sons, Ross and Jesse. We reside part-time in Brooklyn, New York, and enjoy every weekend at our home here in Hemlock Farms. I promise that I will listen to all your concerns and hope to resolve any issues to the best of my abilities.

My vast experience on several boards made me understand how Hemlock Farms Community Associa-tion can use my expertise. I’ve served as president of the Brooklyn Board of Realtors, and as chairman and past president of the Flatbush Real Estate Board. I was director on the following social and charitable boards: The Mill Basin Beach Lions Club and Charter Presi-dent of the Mill Bergen Kiwanis Club, both located in Brooklyn, New York. I currently serve as a director of senior umbrella serving needs of our seniors. I also am a member of St. John’s Knights of Columbus here in Lords Valley. Professionally, for the last 38 years, I have been a New York and Pennsylvania Licensed Real Estate Broker and Registered Mortgage Broker. I am a Realtor and graduate of the National Association of Realtors Institute. A few years ago, I received the pres-tigious award of Realtor of the Year. I also attended St. John’s University in Jamaica, Queens.

I am currently presiding on the Board since last year and hope to continue making progress and help spend our dollars wisely. I hope that, like many HFCA resi-dents, I have your support since I have our interests at heart making our community the best place it can be. See you in and around the community and feel free to call or email ([email protected]) me with any ques-tions or concerns.

Karen Wilshinsky GRIFFITHSI am Karen Wilshin-

sky Griffiths, a candi-date for the Board of Directors of the Hem-lock Farms Community Association. Hemlock Farms holds a special place in my heart, as I had the pleasure of being a child, ‘tween, and teenager here, before raising my own family in Hemlock Farms. During college at George Washington University, and during twenty-three years spent living and working in Manhattan, I always found my way back to Hemlock Farms. In 2009, we moved to Hemlock Farms full-time. My parents, uncle, and father-in-law also have homes in Hemlock Farms. My brother and aunt live nearby. I’ve always been interested in events within Hemlock Farms, but now that I am raising my son here, that interest has become more acute. I served on Hemlock Farms ad hoc 50th Anniversary Committee, and I currently serve on the Planning, Land Use and Architecture Committee. I am also involved in our local community and am a com-mittee member of local Cub Scout Pack 229.

I am a practicing attorney and Founding Partner of McLaughlin & Wilshinsky PC, admitted in Pennsyl-vania, New York and New Jersey, and a member of the Pike County and Pennsylvania Bar Associations. Although my firm’s practice is general, I focus on con-tractual business matters, with a specialty in intellec-tual property protection. I have counseled clients rang-ing from Fortune 500 corporations to small-business owners and individuals. The practice of law neces-sitates keen negotiation, research, and drafting skills, and an ability to deal effectively and persuasively with a diverse array of individuals. On behalf of my clients, I am a counselor, advisor, diplomat and, when necessary, defender of their interests against all threats. Manag-ing my own firm and Manhattan office suite entails an additional skill set, including business management and issues of finance, real estate, employment, and taxation. All of these skills translate directly to the issues facing our community, including ensuring fiscal responsibil-ity and the proper management and sustainability of the natural resources and assets that make Hemlock Farms the pre-eminent community in our area.

The world has changed dramatically since my hus-band, Carl, and I met as carefree teenagers in Hemlock Farms. I feel a responsibility to step up and do what I can to ensure the future health and success of Hemlock Farms for us, for our children, and for all future gen-erations. Please join me in this effort by supporting my candidacy.


ANNUAL MEMBERSHIP MEETING AGENDA

Continued on page 5E

TO ALL HFCA MEMBERSNOTICE OF ANNUAL MEETING, ELECTIONS AND VOTING ON THREE (3) PROPOSITIONS

ANNUAL MEETINGThe 2015 Annual Membership Meeting of the Hemlock Farms Community Association will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, July 11, 2015, in the Steer Barn Clubhouse. The agenda for the meeting is enclosed. Included on the agenda are three (3) propositions, which are being submitted for your consideration. Please also note that there are three (3) seats on the Board of Directors to be filled at this election.

ELECTION NOTICE

The rights of members, including members on the Board of Directors and its advisory committees, to petition and vote are automatically revoked if the member is in default of any monetary obligation owed to the Association. The member’s rights to petition and vote shall be restored after all defaults have been cured as determined by the Board of Directors. (See Bylaws Article 2, Section 2.5.)

Three (3) valid petitions were submitted to the Corporate Secretary this year. Accordingly, there are three (3) candidates for election to the three open seats on the Board. The names of Michael Spitzer, Jeffrey Ferretti, and Karen Wilshinsky Griffiths will appear on the ballot. Information about each of these three (3) candidates can be found in the “Election Insert” of the June issue of Hemlock News.

VOTING PLACE, DAYS, AND HOURS

Place: Steer Barn Clubhouse

Dates: Saturday, July 11, 2015 – 11:00 A.M. to 5:00 P.M. (After the Annual Meeting)

Sunday, July 19, 2015 – 10:00 A.M. to 5:00 P.M.

***ALL VOTERS MUST BRING SIGNED PHOTO I.D.***

Notice by: _________________________________Gloria Talman, Board Secretary

May 27, 2015

AGENDAANNUAL MEMBERSHIP MEETING

SATURDAY, JULY 11, 201510:00 A.M. – STEER BARN CLUBHOUSE

I. CALL TO ORDER

II. DETERMINATION OF QUORUM

III. ANNOUNCEMENT OF POLLING DAYS AND HOURS

IV. CANDIDATES’ ADDRESSES TO THE MEMBERSHIP

V. APPROVAL OF MINUTES

A. 2014 Annual Membership Meeting (July 12, 2014):

MOTION: _____/Seconded _____ - To approve minutes of the July 12, 2014 Annual Membership Meeting as submitted/amended.

VOTING: AYE __ NAY __ ABSTAIN ___

B. 2014 Recessed Annual Membership Meeting (July 20, 2014):

MOTION: _____/Seconded _____ - To approve the minutes of the July 20, 2014 Recessed Annual Membership Meeting as submitted/amended.


VI. PRESENTATION OF THE ANNUAL REPORT

VII. APPROVAL OR DISAPPROVAL OF THE 2014 STATUTORY REPORT OF THE HFCA:

A. MOTION: _____/Seconded _____ - To approve the 2014 Statutory Report as submitted by the HFCA Auditor and included in the 2014 Annual Report.


VIII. ELECTION OF AUDITOR

MOTION: _____/Seconded _____ - To appoint Zavada & Associates to serve as the Auditor for the calendar year 2016 to audit the 2015 books.

VOTING: AYE ___ NAY ___ ABSTAIN ___

IX. OTHER BUSINESS

A. Propositions

Proposition #1: Restore Our Forest

Authorize the Board of Directors to

use lethal means of deer population management, if needed, to maintain our goals that are to restore our forest and healthy deer. This authorization shall expire on July 9, 2016, or on the date of the 2016 Annual Membership Meeting, whichever occurs first.

Rationale: A sustainable deer herd is dynamic and HFCA must monitor and manage the deer to continue realizing the benefits of financial investments in restoring our forests. If deer are not maintained at sustainable levels, the number of deer will return to prior levels in a few short years. Too many deer will over browse newly germinated and growing tree seedlings and other forest vegetation. Loss of vegetative cover will increase our stormwater costs, our drinking water will be at a higher risk of contamination due to lack of vegetation and excessive deer feces, and wildlife species that depend upon forest floor vegetation will be negatively affected. Members will be exposed to a greater risk from deer-vehicle collisions and illness from Lyme disease. HFCA costs to remove dead deer carcasses will increase. Protecting our landscape plantings from deer will be much more expensive and time-consuming. Deer will deplete their natural food sources and, once again, become malnourished. Also, chronic wasting disease (CWD) is spreading throughout the state. Community approval of this proposition and good stewardship will continue to promote healthy deer, a diversity of plants and wildlife, decrease stormwater costs, and restore and preserve our rural forested community.

Proposition #2: Clubhouse Aquatic Upgrades

Authorize the Board of Directors to expend an amount of eighty one thousand ($81,000) dollars from the Capital Improvement Fee Fund, in accordance with the HFCA bylaws, for the purchase and installation of an Ultraviolet (UV) light system on the three indoor pools (Main Pool, Hot Tub and Wading Pool) in the Clubhouse Natatorium, to sanitize the water in each pool; purchase and install a propane fired Clubhouse Outdoor Pool heater, and add cameras to


HFCA

the whole Clubhouse Complex for added security.

Rationale: Capital Improvement Fee (CIF) Funds do not come from dues. These fees are collected on the sale of properties in the Community and can only be expended for new capital projects approved by membership.

Adding a UV system on the three indoor pools will eliminate unwanted chloramines from accumulating inside the Clubhouse Natatorium. Chloramines are the main reason for the heavy chlorine smell that is often associated with the Natatorium and they could cause bather irritation to eyes, skin and lungs. Chloramines are becoming increasingly costly to the Association as they are deteriorating the Natatorium’s Pool Pak (HVAC) system ($28,000 for repairs in 2014 alone). Chloramines are very corrosive and they eat away at the expensive metal parts in the Pool Pak, pool heaters, pool pumps and also all the metal parts around the pool deck including the building’s doors. Over its expected life, this system is estimated to reduce chemical costs by approximately $800 per year and lowering repair and maintenance costs by saving about $5,500 annually on the Pool Pak unit alone.

Installing a propane fired pool heater at the Clubhouse Outdoor Pool will allow for much warmer pool water temperatures for members to enjoy. This pool is kept open longer in the season and this improvement will allow for more comfortable use during the extended season. We anticipate that the annual propane expense will not exceed $12,000, which is less than $4.00 per member per year. The Clubhouse Outdoor Pool is the only unheated Association pool and installing this heater will put the Association in the forefront of Pocono Mountain Communities in the number of heated outdoor pools.

With all of these upgrades and with the new addition to the Fitness Center finishing up this year we also want to ensure the whole Clubhouse Complex is secure. Adding security cameras to the inside and outside of the Clubhouse Complex at various locations for Public Safety to monitor will ensure

supervision when the Clubhouse is not staffed.

Proposition #3: Signage and Landscape Improvements

To authorize the Board of Directors to expend an amount of $220,000 from the Capital Improvement Fee (CIF) Fund, in accordance with the HFCA bylaws, for the design and construction of signage and landscape improvements on Lot #3 located between Hemlock Farms Road at its intersection with Route 739.

Rationale: We have an opportunity to create a striking gateway into the community, one of which every member can be proud. We engaged the services of an acclaimed landscape architect to design the landscape and signage improvements and he worked closely with Management and our ad hoc Gateway Corridor Beautification Committee to refine a concept that will impress members and visitors to Hemlock Farms.

Membership approval of this much needed improvement will surely attract new home buyers to Hemlock Farms, increasing demand and elevating property values. The new signage will reflect the historic Brewster Estate style and quality that is so important to our community. The project further represents the strength, stability and style that our members have come to expect.

This project will be constructed utilizing the Capital Improvement Fee (CIF) Fund. The CIF Fund receives all of its revenue from the sale of properties in Hemlock Farms, not from dues. Much thought and consideration was given to the materials to be used in the project to minimize maintenance costs annually. Therefore, there will be a minimal effect of approximately $3.00 per property on annual dues as a result of this project.

B. Committee Member Recognition.

C. Membership Input.

D. Recess until July 19, 2015, at 5:00 p.m.

AnnuAl MeMbership Meeting AgendAContinued from page 4E HFCA Annual

Membership Meeting and Voting Days

The 2015 Hemlock Farms Community Association (HFCA) Annual Meeting will be held on Saturday, July 11, at

10:00 a.m. at the Clubhouse.The two-day annual election will be

held during these hours:Saturday, July 11, from 11:00 a.m.

until 5:00 p.m., and Sunday, July 19, from 10:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m.

CANDIDATESfor the HFCA Board of Directors

At the 2015 election, HFCA members will elect three members to the Board of Directors for three-year terms each.

Board members whose terms expire are Jeffrey Ferretti, Michael Spitzer,

and Gloria Talman.HFCA Bylaws – ARTICLE 3, SECTION 3.2 Number of Directors; Term; Qualifications

There shall be nine (9) Directors who shall be elected at the annual meeting of the members. The three (3) candidates receiving the highest number of votes shall be elected for three-year terms to replace the three (3) Directors whose terms expire during that year. Directors shall serve without compensation for staggered three (3) year terms that begin at 10:00 a.m. of the first Saturday in August following the date of their election. All nominees and directors shall be over the age of eighteen (18), shall be members of the Association entitled to vote, shall have completed at least one (1) year of service or are currently serving on a Standing Committee, and shall be free of any conflict of interest including but not limited to the type of conflict referred to in Section 3.6.

Candidates’ ForumMeet the candidates running for the Hemlock Farms Board of Directors:

Jeffrey Ferretti • Karen Wilshinsky GriffithsMichael Spitzer

Saturday, June 20NEW TIME: 2:00-4:00 p.m.

Steer Barn Clubhouse AuditoriumNEW FORMAT: Candidates will have the opportunity to

address the group for approximately three minutes each, outlining their biographies and qualifications.

After the candidates speak, they will spend several minutes speaking to members seated at tables in the

Clubhouse. The candidates will move from table to table, giving members a chance to question them on issues and

concerns that are of interest to members and the community.

All are encouraged to attend. Light refreshments provided.


ANNUAL MEMBERSHIP MEETING MINUTES

Continued on page 7E

HEMLOCK FARMS COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION1007 HEMLOCK FARMS, LORDS VALLEY, PA 18428

MINUTES OF THE ANNUAL MEMBERSHIP MEETING HELD ON SATURDAY, JULY 12, 2014, AT THE STEER BARN CLUBHOUSE (UPPER LEVEL).

Notice: The May 28, 2014 Notice of Annual Meeting, Elections and Voting on Three (3) Propositions by Corporate Secretary Gloria Talman along with the 2014 Annual Membership Meeting Agenda, Annual Membership Meeting Minutes of July 13, 2013, the Recessed Annual Membership Meeting Minutes of July 20, 2013, and the 2013 Annual (Statutory) Report, were mailed to all members by Courier Printing.

Agenda: The four page Agenda prepared by the HFCA Community Manager, which had been mailed to each member with the Annual Report, was used for this meeting. A copy of the Agenda is attached to the original copy of these Minutes.

The Notice and Agenda for this meeting were also published in the June, 2014 Election Insert, Volume XXXX, Number 6, issue of Hemlock News, which was mailed on a timely basis to all members pursuant to Bylaws Section 2.6.

I. CALL TO ORDER By Rob Wolff, President at 10:00 a.m. at which time he welcomed those members in attendance.

II. Quorum = 100 votes (See Bylaws’ Section 2.9 (a) as adopted on July 18, 1981.) Upon verification that a quorum was present by Michael J. Sibio, Community Manager, President Rob Wolff opened the meeting.

Board Members present were: Lyn Attreed, Phil Blecker, Jeffrey Ferretti, Pete Ferris, Michael Spitzer, Glorial Talman, Bob Treptow, Rob Wolff and Anne Marie Zenie.

Also present were Community Manager Michael J. Sibio, Executive Office Manager Elaine Peney and HFCA Attorney Alan Young.

III. ANNOUNCEMENT OF POLLING DAYS AND HOURS

Voting machines have been set up in the Steer Barn Art Room. President Rob Wolff stated voting hours are from 11:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m. today, July 12th, and next Sunday, July 20th, voting hours are from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

IV. CANDIDATES’ ADDRESSES TO THE MEMBERSHIP

Board candidates Anne Marie Zenie, Pete Ferris, Jeffrey Ferretti and Rob Wolff addressed the membership.

V. APPROVAL OF MINUTES

A. 2013 Annual Membership Meeting (July 13, 2013):

.01 MOTION: L. Snyder/P. Quinn - To approve minutes of the July 13, 2013 Annual Membership Meeting, as submitted.

VOTE ON MOTION #.01 – APPROVED BY A SHOW OF HANDS.

B. 2013 Recessed Annual Membership Meeting (July 21, 2013):

.02 MOTION: J. Pellechia/J. Sussman - To approve the minutes of the July 21, 2013 Recessed Annual Membership Meeting, as submitted.

VOTE ON MOTION #.02 – APPROVED BY A SHOW OF HANDS.

VI. PRESENTATION OF THE ANNUAL REPORT by Board Treasurer Michael Spitzer.

VII. APPROVAL OR DISAPPROVAL OF THE 2013 STATUTORY REPORT OF THE HFCA

.03 MOTION: N. Barmann/C. Eagan - To approve the 2013 Statutory Report as submitted by the HFCA Auditor and included in the 2013 Annual Report.

VOTE ON MOTION #.03– APPROVED BY A SHOW OF HANDS.

VIII. ELECTION OF AUDITOR

.04 MOTION: G. Snyder/C. Morrow -To appoint Zavada & Associates to serve as the Auditor for the calendar year 2015 to audit the 2014 books.

VOTE ON MOTION #.04 – APPROVED BY A MAJORITY.

IX. OTHER BUSINESS

A. PROPOSITIONS

Proposition # 1. Fitness Center Upgrade and Expansion

That the Fitness Center Upgrade and Expansion construction project be approved at a cost of $775,000, in accordance with the bylaws, with funds to come from the Capital Improvement Fund (CIF).

Rationale: Project will include expanding the existing facility by adding a 40’ x 50’ room to replace the current 20’ x 20’ space. The proposed expansion will be built with climate-controlled, green energy efficient systems and include windowed walls for natural, more efficient lighting. This addition will also provide a second-story storage space which can be accessed from both within and outside the building. Upgrade and expansion is needed to provide a safer and roomier space that will accommodate additional equipment and programs for members. An emergency generator will enable the building to be used as an emergency shelter in case of power outages. The one-lane access road to the rear of the building for emergency vehicles and maintenance will also accommodate a footpath for members to be able to walk around to access the fitness center when the remainder of the building is closed.

Proposition #2. Restore Our Forest

Authorize the Board of Directors to use lethal means of deer population control, if needed, to maintain our goals that are to restore our forest and healthy deer. This authorization shall expire on July 11, 2015, or on the date of the 2015 Annual Membership Meeting, whichever occurs first.

Rationale: HFCA needs to monitor and control the deer to continue realizing the benefits of financial investments in restoring our forests. In recent years, monitoring showed that the deer population was below our sustainable goal of 10 deer per square mile. However, if food and weather conditions are favorable, the population will likely to be over our goal. Then, if HFCA does not maintain the deer population to the sustainable goal, the number of deer will return to overabundant numbers in a few short years. Rising deer populations will browse on newly germinated and growing tree seedlings and other forest vegetation. Loss of vegetative cover will increase our stormwater costs, and our drinking water


AnnuAl MeMbership Meeting MinutesContinued from page 5E

will be at a higher risk of contamination due to lack of vegetation. Excessive deer feces will pollute our waters. Members will be exposed to greater risk of injury from vehicle collisions and illness from Lyme disease and other tick borne diseases. HFCA costs to remove dead deer carcasses will increase. Protecting our landscape plantings from deer will be much more expensive and time-consuming. Eventually, deer will deplete their natural food sources and, once again, become malnourished. Community approval and good stewardship will continue to restore our forests and preserve our rural forested community.

Proposition #3. By-Law Amendment to Section 3.10 Directors, Meetings; Quorum, etc.

Section 3.10 Directors, Meetings; Quorum, etc.

A. An organizational meeting of the Board shall be held annually at 10:00 a.m. on the first Saturday in August. At that meeting the Board shall:

1. Elect officers from amongst its members.

2. Set the calendar of regular meetings for the coming year.

3. Appoint members of standing committees.

4. Review and establish annual Board Goals.

Rationale: This bylaw amendment is necessary to allow the Board of Directors to conduct goal planning discussion during the annual organizational meeting held each August.

Several members addressed the Board during the Open Discussion. A summary of the questions follow:

Joan Curcio: Stated that the generator portion of the Fitness Center was a great idea and asked how much just that part of the project cost.

President Wolff: Responded that the dollar amount is included in the total project cost of $775,000.

Bob Treptow: Added that the approximate cost of the generator is $50,000.

Ray Pohlod: Asked if new equipment will be part of this project.

President Wolff: Responded that new equipment will be included using CIF funds.

Ray Pohlod: Asked what is lethal means – poison, hunting?

President Wolff: Responded that sharpshooters are used and the meat is donated to a food bank.

Laurence Benjamin: Asked if the generator will be fueled by diesel or natural gas.

President Wolff: Explained that there is no localized natural gas and that the generator will be propane fueled.

Fred Jorgenson: Asked for an update on the gypsy moth status.

Mike Sibio: Responded that last year, the aerial treatment reduced the numbers of gypsy moths, except for two hotspots, which are isolated and localized. He stated that the hotspots will be addressed using a fungal treatment, which will have some impact and was proven effective in the past.

Richard Seltzer: Stated that in many gyms, there are televisions attached to the treadmills and suggested that in the proposed project, the purchase of a TV be added and put in a centralized area in the Center.

President Wolff: Responded that there is WiFi in the building so members can bring their smartphones and tablets but that a TV could be put into the operating budget.

John Brophy: Stated ¾ million dollars is a large expense. He suggested that a restaurant or sports bar be proposed instead to generate income. He added that these types of amenities would enhance social gathering among Hemlock Farmers. Mr. Brophy stated that the expansion will generate expenses with regard to maintenance once it is built, which will be borne by the members.

President Wolff: Responded that due to our corporate structure, we are not allowed to run a sports bar/restaurant.

Anthony Gambino: Asked how there could be no increase in dues? Won’t there be more employees needed?

President Wolff: Responded that there will be one Fitness Center Attendant, as there is now. He added that the access road portion of the proposition is also of great importance.

Anthony Gambino: Asked the Board to guarantee that the Fitness Center Expansion will not increase the dues.

President Wolff: Commented that there may be some custodial staff cost.

Joan Curcio: Asked about heating the Fawn Hill Pool because the children are freezing.

President Wolff: Explained that a pool heater proposition failed in the past. He said the estimates for heating the pool varied and the operating costs were high. He stated, however, that a committee is still looking into it.

Linda Strauchler: Stated that a heater would enable the pool to be open beyond Labor Day.

Marjorie Loffredo: Asked for what purpose the Board approved the purchase of the entrance property and why the funds could not come from CIF?

President Wolff: Explained that membership approved the purchase of Lot 3. He stated that in 2007, the LLC was created and this funded the purchase of Lot 2. He said that is why the HFCA could not use CIF funds. He then stated that some tenants are there and the leases are being reviewed and that committees are actively discussing building usage.

Discussion ended at 10:45 a.m.

B. RECESS

.05 MOTION: P. Talman/L. Kelly - To recess the meeting until July 20, 2014 at 5:00 p.m.

VOTE ON MOTION #.05 – APPROVED BY A MAJORITY.

Minutes prepared by Elaine Peney, Executive Office Manager, and Gloria Talman, Secretary.

Submitted by: ______________________________Gloria Talman, Secretary (July 12, 2014)

Approved by the Membership on July 11, 2015, with/without corrections.

Minutes herein are initialed as correct (as per Board approval) by:

__________________________________________Gloria Talman, Secretary (July 11, 2015)


RECESSED ANNUAL MEMBERSHIP MEETING MINUTES

Introduction: At the conclusion of Agenda business at the July 12, 2014, Annual Membership Meeting, President Robert Wolff recessed the Annual Membership Meeting until 5:00 p.m. on Sunday, July 20, 2014, in the Steer Barn Clubhouse (upper level).

Closing of Polls: Today, the polls were closed at 5:00 p.m. Elections Committee Chairperson Gail Blau-Kalman, was assisted by Election Committee members, Assistant Community Manager Dorisann Mooring, and Community Manager Michael J. Sibio. The results were read and recorded from the counters of the four (4) voting machines. The procedure was witnessed by Bob Treptow, Gloria Talman, Lyn Attreed, Anne Marie Zenie, Phil Blecker, Election Committee members, and Board candidate guests.

Also in attendance were Elaine Peney, Executive Office Manager, Accounts Receivable Administrator Dana Vandertoorn, and Mary Beth Connors, Hemlock News Coordinator. The results were tallied on the Official Tally Sheet. The Tally Sheet was verified and signed by Election Committee members.

I. CALL TO ORDER by Board President Robert Wolff after the tally sheet results were completed at 5:20 p.m.

.01 MOTION: B. Zenie/P. Quinn - To reconvene the meeting of July 12, 2014.

Motion approved by show of hands.

Board President Rob Wolff announced the results of voting for the Board of Director Candidates, beginning with the most number of votes cast. Serving three year terms are: Anne Marie Zenie, Pete Ferris, and Robert Wolff. Serving a one-year term is Jeffrey Ferretti.

The positions will commence on August 2, 2014.

II. VOTING RESULTS

Total Term Candidates:

Anne Marie Zenie 1,213 3 yr.

Pete Ferris 1,160 3 yr.

Rob Wolff 1,073 3 yr.

Jeffrey Ferretti 939 1 yr.

PASSED YES NO OR FAILED

Proposition I 1,198 436 Passed

Proposition II 1,141 453 Passed

Proposition III 1,272 287 Passed

.02 MOTION: – G. Talman/G. Snyder - To accept the election results.

Motion approved by show of hands.

III. ADJOURNMENT

.03 MOTION: L. Snyder/N. Barman - To adjourn the Recessed Meeting at 5:30 p.m.

VOTE ON MOTION .03: APPROVED UNANIMOUSLY.

Minutes prepared by Elaine Peney, Executive Office Manager, and Gloria Talman, Secretary.

Submitted by: ______________________________Gloria Talman, Secretary (July 20, 2014)

Approved by the Membership on July 11, 2015, with/without corrections.

These Minutes are initialed as correct (as per Membership approval):

Attested to by: ______________________________ Gloria Talman, Secretary (July 11, 2015)

HEMLOCK FARMS COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION1007 HEMLOCK FARMS, LORDS VALLEY, PA 18428

MINUTES OF THE HFCA RECESSED ANNUAL MEMBERSHIP MEETING HELD ON SUNDAY, JULY 20, 2014, AT THE STEER BARN CLUBHOUSE (UPPER LEVEL). VOTING

The privilege of voting is extended to members

in good standing.

HFCA

Signed Photo ID Required

When you cast your vote, by either the alternative method of voting or on regular voting

days, you must provide both a signature and photo identification. This may be

the same document, such as a driver’s license or passport.

Alternative Method of Voting

We are happy to again offer the alternative method of voting for

those members who cannot be in Hemlock Farms on voting days.However, in order to minimize

costs and staff time, we ask that you use the alternative method

only if necessary.

Alternative Method of Voting ProcedureBallots will be made available beginning Friday, June 26, through 3:00 p.m. on Wednesday,

July 8, with the exception of Tuesdays, when the Administration Office is closed.Ballots will be available from and returned to the HFCA Administration Office only.

HFCA

hemlock farms election supplement 2015

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