Spring/Summer 2023

In this Issue

Chesapeake Region Chapter of CAI

Valerie Lykins, Executive Director

Angela Marsh, Marketing and Events Manager

Christina Killian, Office Administrator

PO Box 6838, Columbia, MD 21045

Office Line: 410-348-1534 Membership Line: 410-505-8746

Office Email: contact@caimdches.org

Membership Email: membership@caimdches.org

www.caimdches.org

This publication attempts to provide CAI’s membership with information on community association issues. Authors are responsible for developing the logic of their expressed opinions and for the authenticity of all presented facts in articles. CAI does not necessarily endorse or approve statements of fact or opinion made in these pages and assumes no responsibility for those statements. This publication is issued with the understanding that the publisher is not engaged in rendering legal, accounting or other professional services. If legal advice or other expert assistance is required, the services of a competent professional should be sought. Permission to reprint articles in Beacon may be granted only after receiving prior written approval from the CED of CRC/CAI.

EXECUTIVE BOARD

President Rebecca Clemson-Petrik, CMCA, AMS, PCAM

President-Elect

Vice-President

FirstService Residential

James Anderson, PE

Becht Engineering BT, Inc

Gail Windisch, CMCA, AMS, PCAM, Tidewater Property Management, Inc. AAMC

Secretary Noni Roan, CMCA, Pinnacle Financial Partners

Treasurer Vicki Eaton, CMCA, AMS, LSM, PCAM Community Association Services, Inc., AAMC

DIRECTORS

Hillary Collins, Esq, Rees Broome, PC

Cynthia McKoin, Potomac Ridge Condominium, Inc.

B.K. Swartwood, CMCA, AMS, PCAM, Montego Bay Civic Association

Gary Saylor, Atlantic Maintenance Group

COMMITTEE CHAIRS

Social Dani Bressler, Chair

Toepfer Construction Co., Inc.

Carrie Ehart, Vice-Chair

Raine & Son, LLC

DelMarva Chad Toms, Chair

WHITEFORD

Lisa Meck, CMCA, AMS, Vice-Chair

Carl M. Freeman Companies

Education

Christa Brady, AMS, PCAM, Chair

USI Insurance Services

Michelle Jones, CMCA, AMS, PCAM, Vice-Chair

General Manager, Lake Linganore Association

EXPO Ellen Throop, Chair

Davis, Agnor, Rapaport & Skalny, LLC

Joanne Frallicciardi, CMCA, AMS, Vice-Chair

Tidewater Property Management, Inc. AAMC

Golf

Chase Hudson, Chair

Sahouri Insurance

T.J. Socks, Vice-Chair

Becht Engineering BT

Legislative

Cynthia Hitt Kent, Chair, Chair

Law Office of Cynthia Hitt Kent, LLC

Karen Fooks, CMCA, AMS, Vice-Chair

Community Management Corporation/Associa

Membership

Jennifer Melson, CMCA, AMS, Chair

Premier Property Management

Beth Bencivenni, Vice-Chair

SecureCore

Magazine

Michelle Baldry, Chair

Reserve Advisors

Don Plank, PCAM, Vice-Chair

National Cooperative Bank

Communication

Alicia Menefee, CMCA, AMS, Chair

FirstService Residential

Vince Scarfo, CMCA, Vice-Chair

Clear: Restoration and PreDisaster Consulting

Hello Chapter Members and Future Members,

Thank you to each and every one of you that has assisted in each of our successful events so far this year. I’m grateful for all of our volunteers serving as committee members, who create our calendar of amazing events and for everyone who attends, listens, networks, and provides feedback. Along with our incredible staff that ensures everything is taken care of. It’s been wonderful to see so many familiar faces and new faces at our educational events, networking events and our Delmarva Golf Outing. I’m excited for what the summer has instore for us, with more education opportunities, our second golf outing of the year, the crab feast and our very first joint chapter event with the Washington Chapter at Loan Oak Brewery. Then, before we realize, fall will be here along with our Expo. Who’s excited for Maryland Live!? I’m ecstatic that the Board, Committees and members have been just as excited as I am about moving forward with “No Limits” thinking, as we continue to finalize plans for this year and look into the future. Our Chapter continues to grow and develop; new events and opportunities are on our horizon!

I hope you are able to attend a manager huddle, the golf outing, the crab feast, or the joint chapter event. From personal experience, this chapter provides opportunities that we can all benefit from, whether you’re a Board Member, Community Manager, Business Parter or just YOU. I urge all 1200 of you to try something different. Attend an event, if you haven’t. Join a committee (and don’t say “I don’t have time”, find the time). Or start small and reach out to someone here that you haven’t had the chance to connect with. Like Pele said, “love what you are doing” and persevere and sacrifice to achieve success.

Yours truly,

Rebecca Clemson-Petrik

Rebecca Clemson-Petrik CMCA, AMS, PCAM

Chesapeake Region Chapter President Regional Director, FirstService Residential

“Success is no accident. It is hard work, perseverance, learning, studying, sacrifice and most of all, love of what you are doing or learning to do.” ~Pele

To our new Board Member

Civic Association

To our Chapter Board Member and President-Elect

James Anderson, PE with Becht Engineering BT, Inc. for winning the Award of Excellence in Membership at the Community Associations Institute National Conference in Dallas, Texas!

B.K. SWARTWOOD, CMCA, AMS, PCAM, from Montego Bay

Welcome new members

Mr. Nick Alexopulos

Chapel Hill Community Association, Inc

Mr. Robert Alonso

Leisure World of Maryland Corporation

Mr. Torin Andrews

Community Association Legal Services, LLC

Ms. Rita Bajkowski

Harbour Club Condominium Association

Mr. Dennis Barton

Villages at Red Mill Pond

Mr. Robert Baxley

Holland Mills Homeowners Association

Ms. Janice Beaver

Heritage Harbour Community Association

Mr. Dave Behler

Savannahs Landing Home Owners Association

Mr. Richard Bogan

Tilghman on Chesapeake Community Association

Mr. James Bolin III

The Reserves at Ocean View

Mr. Michael Boyle

Heritage Harbour Community Association

Mr. David Breen

Marsh Farm Estates

Ms. Angela Brown

Sunnyfield Estates Homeowners Association

Mr. Scott Burka

EJF Real Estate Services, Inc.

Mrs. Faye Charles

VPS Recreation, Inc.

Ms. Christine Chesternutt

Deer Harbour Improvement Association

Ms. Susan Choquette

The Residence Park Place Condominium

Mr. Nashid Coleman Comsource Management, Inc.

Ms. Melissa Cook Russett Community Association

Mr. Frank Daquila

Marsh Farm Estates

Mr. Joshua Davis Renovia

Mr. Steven DiCarlo

The Reserves at Ocean View

Ms. Shantelle Dunlap

Ms. Nancy Emerick Symphony Village Homeowners Association

Mr. Brian England Columbia Association, Inc.

Mr. Martin Eno

Ms. Jennifer Fannin

SeaScape Property Management

Mr. Roger Fons FirstService Residential

Mr. Thomas Ford

Savannahs Landing Home Owners Association

Mr. Chuck Foy Villages at Red Mill Pond

Mr. Steve Gallagher

Marsh Farm Estates

Ms. Lynn Gordon Villages at Woodholme Condominium

Ms. Michele Gould

Legum & Norman

Mr. Jeffrey Gover

Mr. Eric Greenberg Columbia Association, Inc.

Mr. Jean-paul

Halstead HPS Management

Mr. Neil Hardman

Marsh Farm Estates

Dr. Johnette Hartnett

Mr. Justin Hawkins CAMS

Ms. Amy Heller

The Residence Park Place Condominium

Mr. Eric Hess

HPS Management

Ms. Julie Holly Woodstream East Homeowners Association, Inc.

Mr. Tom Holzer

Marsh Farm Estates

Mr. James Ireland

The Reserves at Ocean View

Ms. Jennifer Johns

Sunnyfield Estates Homeowners Association

Ms. Priscilla Johnson

Russett Community Association

Kimberly Jones

Legum & Norman Inc.

Ms. Monique Jones

Marsh Farm Estates

Mr. Ian Jones

Tilghman on Chesapeake Community Association

Mr. Eugene Jubber

Harbour Club Condominium Association

Mrs. Charlene Kammer Reserve at Chestnut Ridge

Mr. Anthony Kazzi

Russett Community Association

Mr. William Kehoe

Villages at Red Mill Pond

Ms. Noreen Kelly

Beachfield HOA

Mr. Sherman Kerbel

Villages at Woodholme Condominium

Mrs. Deborah Kidwell

Heritage Harbour Community Association

Ms. Kelsey Lang

Tilghman on Chesapeake Community Association

Dr. Anne Lara

Mr. Fred Latteri

Reserve at Chestnut Ridge

Mr. David Leight

Russett Community Association

Ms. Janet Leister

Symphony Village Homeowners Association

Crystal Marine

Tidewater Property Management

Ms. Regina Martone

Mr. James Mata

Maryland Premier Exteriors, Inc.

Mr. Dennis Mattey

Columbia Association, Inc.

Ms. Patricia McAuliffe

Tilghman on Chesapeake Community Association

Mr. Neal McLems

The Reserves at Ocean View

Ms. Theresa Middlebrooks Reserve at Chestnut Ridge

Mr. Sam Mullins

Marsh Farm Estates

Ms. Gayatn Mundyle

Chapel Hill Community Association, Inc

Ms. Diane Nicholson

Heritage Harbour Community Association

Ms. Pam Orlando

Villages at Red Mill Pond

Lisa Oxendine

Legum & Norman

Mr. Allison Palmer

The Reserves at Ocean View

Ms. Wendy Poulson

Villages at Woodholme Condominium

Ms. Charlotte Prado

Savannahs Landing Home Owners Association

Mrs. Nancy Reger

Marsh Farm Estates

Ms. Phyllis Regotti

Bay Forest Community Association

Ms. Desirae Reider

Community Association Services, Inc.

Mr. Marc Remillard

Waverly Woods West HOA

Mr. Aramis Rodriguez

U.S. Lawns

Welcome new members cont.

Mr. Mike Rogers

Marsh Farm Estates

Ms. Gina Rooney

Tidewater Property Management

Mr. Benjamin Rudo

Villages at Woodholme Condominium

Ms. Theresa Sakalski

Mr. Douglas Scheer

Reserve at Chestnut Ridge

Mr. Nal Scholdenpres

Marsh Farm Estates

Ms. MaryAnne Schouw

Glade Towne Community Association

Ms. Cindi Schuman

Villages at Woodholme Condominium

Ms. Leslie Seff

Villages at Woodholme Condominium

Ms. Kay Senft

Chapel Hill Community Association, Inc

Eva Shallis

HPS Management

Mrs. Linda Sheets

Bopat Electric

Mr. Jonathan Shurtleff

Heritage Harbour Community Association

Ms. Roberta Smith

Villages at Woodholme Condominium

Mr. Robert Spanier

Reserve at Chestnut Ridge

Mr. Otis Sprow

Villages at Woodholme Condominium

Mr. Tom Stoner

The Gatherings at Jefferson Place Condominium Association

Mr. Terence Sweeney

Heritage Harbour Community Association

Ms. Vickey Testa

Tilghman on Chesapeake Community Association

Ms. Virginia Thomas

Columbia Association, Inc.

Miss Karen Thompson

Tidewater Property Management

Mr. Harry Trumbore

Savannahs Landing Home Owners Association

Ms. Staci Vest

Tidewater Property Management

Ms. Sandra Vitale Savannahs Landing Home Owners Association

Ms. Noravia Washington Woodstream East Homeowners Association, Inc.

Mr. Edward Wienefeld

Tilghman on Chesapeake Community Association

Mr. Stuart Wilkinson Reserve Study Group, LLC

Mr. Michael Winn

Heritage Harbour Community Association

Ms. Dawn Winters

Legum & Norman

Ms. Kimberly Wise

SeaScape Property Management

Ms. Anne Wright

DoodyCalls of Owings Mills

Mr. Jack Wuerker

Tilghman on Chesapeake Community Association

Ms. Nancy Yurek

Tilghman on Chesapeake Community Association

Ms. Joanna Zachos

Villages at Red Mill Pond

Ms. Sue Zwolinski

Complete Landscaping Service

Delmarva Golf Outing Delmarva Golf Outing

We had a great Golf Outing on the Eastern Shore at Glen Riddle Golf Course - War Admiral on Monday, May 8th!

Many Thanks to our Delmarva Golf Outing Committee, Golfers, Volunteers and Sponsors who helped to make this such a great event!

Many Thanks to our Sponsors!

Atlantic Maintenance Group, LLC

BrightView Landscapes

CallTrackingMetrics

Chester River Landscaping

Kris Konstruction Roofing Professionals

Legum & Norman

NFP Property & Casualty

Pinnacle Financial Partners

Ruppert Landscape

Sullivan’s Landscaping & Maintenance

The Witmer Group

Tidewater Property Management, Inc

WHITEFORD

Congratulations to our Delmarva Golf Outing Foursome Winners!

Congratulations to our Delmarva Golf Outing Foursome Winners!

First Place: T.J. Socks, Chase Hudson, Mark Brennan

Second Place: Roberto Montesinos, Ian Douglas, Drew Terrell, Quinn Griffith

First Place: T.J. Socks, Chase Hudson, Mark Brennan

Second Place: Roberto Montesinos, Ian Douglas, Drew Terrell, Quinn Griffith

Third Place: Scott Karam, Todd Wawrzeniak, Trent Harrison, Evan Picciotto

MARYLAND HIDDEN TREASURES

Assateague Island: A Wild and Wondrous Ecosystem

Assateague Island is a barrier island located off the coast of Maryland and Virginia. The island is known for its wild horses, sandy beaches, and unique ecosystem that supports a diverse array of plants and animals.

The island has a rich history dating back thousands of years when it was home to the Assateague tribe of Native Americans before European settlers arrived in the 1600s. The island was used for farming, fishing, and hunting before becoming a national wildlife refuge in 1943. Today the island is managed by the National Park Service and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.

The island is about 37 miles long, with the southernmost third located in Virginia. The island is divided by the Maryland-Virginia state line, with the Maryland side of the island protected as the Assateague Island National Seashore and the Virginia side protected as the Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge.

Assateague is a unique and fragile ecosystem that includes beaches, dunes, salt marshes, bays, and water forests. The island’s habitats support a diverse array of plants and animal life, including over 320 bird species, 58 species of reptiles and amphibians, and forty species of mammals, that require careful management and protection. Visitors are encouraged to follow the “Leave NO Trace” principles, including packing out all trash. The delicate ecosystem is vulnerable to the effects of climate change, including sea level rise, storm surges, and increased erosion.

The most famous residents of Assateague Island are its wild horses. These horses are believed to have been on the island for hundreds of years, and their story is a fascinating one. The origin of the horses is shrouded in mystery; however, one theory is that they were brought to the island by early settlers who used them to graze on marsh grasses. Another theory suggests the horses swam ashore after a Spanish shipwreck in the 16th century. Regardless, the horses have adapted to the harsh conditions of the island and have thrived in their natural habitat. In fact, their ability to survive harsh conditions is remarkable. They graze on the salt marsh grasses and drink from the island’s freshwater ponds and have adapted to the frequent storms and hurricanes that batter the island. Despite their rugged appearance, the horses are sensitive to human interference and protected by federal law.

Assateague Island is a wild and wondrous place that offers visitors a chance to experience the beauty of nature. The wild horses are one of the most beloved parts of the region’s history and culture. From its wild horses to its unique salt marshes, the island’s ecosystem is a testament to the resilience and adaptability of the natural world. Whether you are a local or a visitor, Assateague Island and its horses are an unforgettable site that will leave a lasting impression on anyone who goes and encounters them.

Written by: Elisabeth Kirk TRC Engineering, EBP ekirk@trc-engineering.com

FLOUNDER PAVILION BEACH FRONT

Many Thanks

TO OUR ANNUAL SPONSOR S!

2023 DIAMOND SPONSORS

Atlantic Maintenance Group

Becht Engineering BT, Inc.

ETC, Inc

Hann & Hann Construction Services

Kris Konstruction Roofing Professionals

Mid Atlantic Asphalt, Inc.

MillerDodson Associates, Inc.

Minkoff Company

North Arundel Contracting, Inc.

Pinnacle Financial Partners

Rees Broome, PC

RoofPRO, LLC

Sahouri Insurance

The Falcon Group Engineers, Architects & Reserve Specialists

Tidewater Property Management, Inc., AAMC

2023 PLATINUM SPONSORS

Davis, Agnor, Rapaport & Skalny

EJF Real Estate Services

FirstService Residential

Nagle & Zaller, P.C.

Palmer Brothers Painting & General Contracting

SI Restoration

Simmerer Insurance LLC

Unlimited Restoration, Inc.

WHITEFORD

WPM Real Estate Management

2023 Gold Sponsors

Connie Phillips Insurance

Truist Association Services

Pacific Premier Bank Community Association Banking

Condominium Venture, Inc.

Guinness Happy Hour

We had a great Happy Hour on Thursday, April 12th at the Guinness Open Gate Brewery filled with great people, food, beer & a good time! Many Thanks to our Social Committee for planning this fun event!

Thank you to our sponsors!

Becht Engineering BT, Inc.

BrightView Landscapes

Capitol Boiler Works

FirstService Residential

Kris Konstruction Roofing Professionals

Mid Atlantic Asphalt Inc

Miller Dodson Associates, Inc.

Oliveri & Larsen

Planned Companies

Rees Broome, PC

RESCON Restoration & Construction

Sahouri Insurance

The Falcon Group

Toepfer Construction Co., Inc.

TRC Engineering

DEI Upcoming Events: Save the date!

As we enter the next four months, there are several historical and social occurrences that highlight the ongoing importance of inclusion and representation in our society. These events provide an opportunity to reflect on past struggles, celebrate progress, and identify areas where more work is needed towards creating a more inclusive and equitable future.

Juneteenth National Independence Day

On June 19th, the United States officially recognizes Juneteenth National Independence Day as a federal holiday. Juneteenth commemorates the day in 1865 when Union General Gordon Granger arrived in Galveston TX and announced the end of slavery in the United States. The holiday has been celebrated in Black Communities for over a century, and its recognition as a federal holiday signals the importance of acknowledging and honoring the contributions and experiences of Black Americans.

International Day of Friendship

On July 30th, the United Nations recognizes the International Day of Friendship. The day is dedicated to promoting friendship among all peoples, cultures, and backgrounds with the goal of fostering peace and understanding. In a world that often focuses on differences, the International Day of Friendship is a reminder of the power of connection and the importance of building bridges across different communities.

Women’s Equality Day

On August 26th the United States celebrates Women’s Equality Day, which commemorates the passage of the 19th amendment to the US Constitution, granting women the right to vote. While there has been progress towards gender equality since 1920, women still face significant barriers and challenges, particularly women of color, transgender women, and those in marginalized communities. Women’s Equality Day is an important opportunity to celebrate past achievements and to advocate for continued progress towards gender equality.

International Day of Sign Languages

On September 23rd, the United Nations recognizes the International Day of Sign Languages. The day is dedicated to raising awareness about the importance of sign languages and promoting the rights of deaf people worldwide. Sign languages are unique and vibrant languages that are essential to the communication and cultural expression of deaf individuals. The International Day of Sign Languages provides an opportunity to celebrate diversity and recognize the contributions of the deaf community.

Hispanic Heritage Month

From September 15th to October 15th the United States celebrates Hispanic Heritage Month, recognizing the contributions and experiences of Hispanic Americans. The month celebrates the history, culture, and achievements of individuals with roots in Spain, Mexico, Central and South America, and the Caribbean. It provides an opportunity to celebrate diversity and highlights the importance of inclusion and representation in our communities.

In conclusion, the next four months are filled with important historical and social events that highlight the ongoing struggle for inclusion and representation. These events provide an opportunity to reflect on past struggles, celebrate progress, and identify areas where more work is needed towards creating a more inclusive and equitable future. By staying informed and engaged we can continue to work towards a world where all individuals are valued, respected, and empowered.

Written by: Dani Bressler, CAS, EBP, Toepfer Construction Co., Inc dbressler@toepferco.com & Elisabeth Kirk, TRC Engineering, EBP ekirk@trc-engineering.com

LOW IMPACT LANDSCAPING

A few trends in landscaping are: incorporating eco-friendly designs that: use plants that require less watering, are native, and attract local wildlife; create less lawn and more meadow; use permeable paving material, and create active/passive uses in the outdoors. What can you do with your own property? Homeowners are becoming iancreasingly aware of the impact, and responsibility to, their immediate environment. Here are some suggestions.

Invasive Plants

Invasives can change the ecosystem quickly due to their ability to flourish and spread. We in the landscape industry and homeowners should continue to diligently remove all invasives such as (the more common ones):

• Trees: Black Locust, White Poplar, Tree of Heaven, Bamboo

• Shrubs: Barberry, Butterfly Bush, Burning Bush, Autumn Olive, Privet, Honeysuckle, Nandina Domestica

• Perennials/Grasses: Loosestrife, Pampas Grass, Maiden Grass, Phragmites

• Vines: Porcelain Berry, English Ivy, Bittersweet, Honeysuckle, Autumn Clematis

How to Remove Invasive Plants?

• Pull up roots and all, continuously! They will eventually stop growing.

• Adding mulch and ground covers to prevent sunlight needed for weed seed germination.

• Mow lawns before weed seed heads form.

• In large plots of land, a prescribed controlled burning will work.

• Last resort, use herbicide properly (please read the directions).

Right Plant/Right Place

• Take a fist full of soil from at least 6” below the surface. Clumpy/solid = clay based, falls apart = sand based. Clay holds the water and, therefore, can be more prone to retaining wetness. Sandy soil allows water and nutrients/fertilizer to leach through more quickly and will require additional application. Choose the correct plants according to your damp or dry conditions.

• Lear n how tall and wide plants will grow. Learn if it prefers sun or shade. Install accordingly.

Water Runoff

Downspouts should NOT empty onto a neighbor’s property or the street. Create a low area (rain garden) that will hold most of the runoff and install plant species that

prefer damp/wet soil. Rain Garden construction and plant lists can be found on the internet. Here is an excellent example:

https://www.familyhandyman.com/project/how-to-builda-rain-garden-in-your-yard/#:~:text=Create%20the%20 rain%20garden%20by,to%20the%20different%20water%20 depths.

Native Plants

Try to use pure/”straight” native species as much as possible. Natives support more varieties of native insects than cultivated varieties. Natives have a much stronger ability to survive local climate extremes and conditions. A second option is to choose cultivated or a “variety” of native plants. Also, choose a variety of plants so they provide bloom times throughout the year for bees and butterfly pollination and nectar opportunities. A few suggestions: Mountain Mint (it doesn’t spread), Joe Pye Weed, Coreopsis, Aster, Coral Bells, Phlox, Coneflower. https://extension.umd.edu/resource/pollinator-gardens

Reduce Lawn Areas

Constant watering (irrigation), herbicides, pesticides, and regular mowing are required to maintain a green, weed free lawn. To reduce those environmental detriments, consider setting aside areas and allow the turf to mature and other species will grow. If native perennials and grasses are introduced to those areas, we can create a positive environmental impact. Another excellent source of information about turning lawns into meadows: https:// extension.umd.edu/resource/converting-lawns-diverselandscapes-case-studies

Written by: Meredith Watters, MLA Landscape Designer, Chester River Landscaping

Benefits of Being Proactive vs. Reactive in Community Associations

Managing physical assets and employees of a community association can be a daunting task. As a manager, you can either be proactive or reactive. A proactive manager takes measures to prevent issues before they occur, while a reactive manager only acts after a problem has already arisen. The benefits of being proactive are numerous, especially when it comes to managing physical assets and employees. In this article, we will explore the advantages of being a proactive manager and board member, as well as the importance of maintaining good relationships with vendors.

Community associations, whether it’s a homeowners association (HOA) or a condominium association, require the skills and expertise of a proactive manager to keep the community running smoothly. Community Association Institute (CAI) recommends a proactive management approach for managing physical assets and employees of a community association.

A proactive manager takes a preventative approach, predicting and identifying potential problems before they occur. This management style requires forethought, planning, and a good sense of the community’s needs. In contrast, a reactive manager responds to issues as they arise. A reactive manager is often forced to make quick decisions without considering the impact on the community. Proactive management offers numerous benefits that can make a community association more efficient and effective. Some of these benefits include:

Cost savings

A proactive manager can save the community association a lot of money in the long run. By identifying and fixing problems before they become major issues, the manager can prevent costly repairs and replacements. For example, a proactive manager may notice that a roof is starting to deteriorate and schedule repairs before the roof fails, causing water damage and other problems.

Improved communication

Proactive managers often communicate more effectively with the community association’s board, employees, and

residents. They provide regular updates on projects, maintenance, and other issues, which can prevent misunderstandings and confusion. Additionally, proactive managers are more likely to seek feedback from stakeholders, ensuring that their needs are being met.

Better planning and organization

Proactive managers are skilled at planning and organizing projects, maintenance, and other tasks. They create schedules and timelines that allow the community association to operate smoothly and efficiently. This ensures that tasks are completed on time and that there is no disruption to the community’s daily operations.

Increased safety and security

A proactive manager takes safety and security seriously. They identify potential safety hazards and take steps to mitigate them before accidents occur. Additionally, proactive managers work with local law enforcement to ensure that the community association is safe and secure.

CAI Best Practices for Proactive Management

CAI recommends several best practices for proactive management of physical assets and employees of a community association. These include:

DEVELOP A LONG-TERM PLAN

A proactive manager should work with the community association’s board to develop a long-term plan for maintenance, repairs, and replacements. This plan should be based on the community’s needs and priorities and should be regularly updated.

CONDUCT REGULAR INSPECTIONS

Regular inspections of the community’s physical assets, such as buildings, roads, and landscaping, can identify potential problems before they become major issues. A proactive manager should conduct regular inspections and create a schedule for routine maintenance and repairs.

INVEST IN TRAINING AND DEVELOPMENT

A proactive manager should invest in the training and development of employees. This can help ensure that employees are skilled and knowledgeable, which can improve the quality of work and prevent costly mistakes.

CREATE A COMMUNICATION PLAN

A proactive manager should create a communication plan that includes regular updates to the community association’s board, employees, and residents. This plan should be tailored to the needs of the community and should be regularly reviewed and updated.

WORK WITH A NETWORK OF PROFESSIONALS

A proactive manager should work with a network of professionals, including contractors, engineers, and attorneys. This can ensure that the community association receives high-quality services and advice, which can prevent costly mistakes and improve the community’s operations.

Benefits of Being a Proactive Board Member

In addition to the benefits of being a proactive manager, there are also advantages to being a proactive board member. One of the most significant benefits is that it helps ensure the community association is well-managed and financially stable. A proactive board member will take steps to monitor the association’s financial health and make adjustments as needed. This can include reviewing budgets regularly, negotiating contracts with vendors, and identifying areas where cost savings can be achieved. Another benefit of being a proactive board member is that it helps build relationships with community members. By being visible and engaging with members regularly, board members can build trust and confidence in the association’s leadership. This can lead to increased member participation in association activities and a more vibrant, engaged community.

Being a proactive board member also helps ensure that the association is compliant with all relevant laws and regulations. This includes maintaining accurate records and documentation, ensuring that all financial transactions are transparent and above board, and complying with all applicable employment laws and regulations.

Importance of Good Vendor Relationships

In addition to being proactive in managing physical assets and employees and serving as a proactive board member, it is also important to maintain good relationships with the vendors used by the community association. Vendors play an important role in maintaining the physical assets of the community, and a good relationship with them can help

ensure that work is completed on time and within budget. A good vendor relationship can also lead to cost savings. When a vendor knows that they have a good relationship with the community association, they may be more likely to offer discounts or other cost-saving measures. This can help the community association save money over time. Maintaining good vendor relationships also helps ensure quality work. When a vendor knows that they have a good relationship with the community association, they are more likely to go the extra mile to ensure that work is completed to a high standard. This can help prevent issues from arising in the first place, which can save the community association time and money over the long run.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the benefits of being a proactive manager when managing physical assets and employees of a community association cannot be overstated. Proactive managers are able to anticipate problems and take preemptive action to prevent them from occurring. This helps to avoid costly repairs and downtime, as well as employee turnover and low morale. Proactive managers are also able to identify areas for improvement and implement changes that benefit the community as a whole. Similarly, proactive board members are crucial to the success of a community association. They are able to provide direction and guidance to the management team, ensuring that the association is run efficiently and effectively. They also represent the interests of the community and are responsible for making decisions that benefit all residents.

Finally, it is important to have good relationships with the vendors used at the associations we manage. Vendors play a critical role in maintaining the physical assets of the community and ensuring that residents have access to necessary services. Good relationships with vendors help to ensure that work is completed in a timely and efficient manner, and that the community receives high-quality service.

Overall, being proactive rather than reactive in managing physical assets and employees, serving on a Board of Directors, and working with vendors is essential to the success of a community association. It requires careful planning, communication, and collaboration, but the benefits are well worth the effort. By working proactively, community associations can create a better living environment for their residents and ensure long-term success for the community as a whole.

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Written by: Chris Petrik, CMCA, AMS, PCAM General Manager, Silo Point Condominium Chris.Petrik@FSResidential.com

Collections Options Collections Options

No matter the size, type, or location, every association has to deal with collecting dues from its members. Most homeowners know and understand their obligation to pay association dues, and if they fall on hard times or just plain miss a payment, they make the effort to bring their account current. But what about those owners who, for whatever reason, just will not make their payments in full or on time? The association spends money and turns the account over to an attorney for collections, but then how does the association actually get paid? There are multiple options for an association to employ, and some of those options are not as standard as maybe they should be. The traditional option that most Boards are aware of is filing a lawsuit to obtain a judgment. Once a judgment is entered, the association has the pleasure of going through the laborious steps of garnishing wages or bank accounts. These steps cost the association additional time and money, and the costs are mostly non-recoverable (including the cost of locating an asset to be garnished). The other option is to place a lien on the lot/unit to secure the amount due in the event of a sale of the lot/unit or if the owner files bankruptcy. This is typically a passive collection option – record the lien and forget it. In most cases, the lien will only be satisfied when the property is voluntarily conveyed.

But what do you do when a lien and/or a lawsuit simply cannot compel the intransigent owner to pay what’s owed?

1. Restricting Voting or Access to Facilities – Does your Board have the authority?

Enforcing a judgment requires information about an owner’s employment or assets and foreclosing on a statutory lien is time consuming. Not every consequence has to be monetary. An alternative is to check the association’s governing documents for what powers the Board has to suspend voting rights, candidacy for a Board position, or restrict access to facilities if an owner’s account is delinquent. When an owner finds out that they cannot vote at the annual meeting or their families cannot enjoy the pool during the summer months, that is quite often the time that the association will hear from the owner to bring the account current or work out a payment arrangement. These non-monetary methods are strong tools to use as leverage to get paid, but there is a note of caution. Under Maryland law, the authority to impose any of these restrictions has to be specifically granted in the

association’s governing documents. It’s not enough for the Board to pass a simple resolution – suspension authority has to be in the recorded governing documents to be enforceable and any process listed should be strictly followed.

2. Mediation or Alternative Dispute Resolution – Is it really worth the Board’s time?

In some cases, an account being tur ned over to an attorney for collections automatically makes the situation adversarial. Owners pretend the attorney does not exist or they are just scared and shy away from communicating. In these situations, mediation and alternative dispute resolution (ADR) can be helpful. All of the courts in Maryland have mediators available, and the judges are strong advocates for mediation. For some judges even, there is no choice: the parties are going outside the courtroom to mediate. Mediation has the benefit of allowing owners to feel heard in a less adversarial space than a courtroom. It gives both parties more control over the outcome of a case in lieu of a judge making the final decision. Note that the association does not need to file a lawsuit and go to court to obtain the benefit of a mediator; certified mediators are available across the State of Maryland. There are also ADR organizations where the claim is brought in front of an arbitrator instead of a judge. ADR sessions can be more flexible with dates and allow for more discussion for a resolution than a courtroom provides. However, ADR or arbitration can be just as expensive, if not more expensive, than hiring an attorney and filing a lawsuit. If the association ends up having to enforce the arbitrator’s decision, then the association has ended up right back in the courtroom.

3. Property based remedies

When an owner is either delinquent for extended periods of time, or is frequently delinquent, the Board may feel that it is necessary to ratchet up the pressure to try to put an end to the cycle. In such cases, the association may want to take drastic measures by foreclosing on the judgment or statutory liens against an owner’s property. In Maryland, judgment liens may be satisfied by seizing and selling a vehicle, or any of the owner’s real property. In both cases the sheriff is involved which is usually enough to get an owner’s attention. And, obviously, selling the real property will at least prevent further delinquency on the account.

Maryland law also permits the holder of a statutory lien on property within the association to sell the property and satisfy the lien. This procedure is a considerably longer process with more requirements, but it allows the association to recover most of what is owed in total. Either way, foreclosing on one of the liens tends to get the attention of a delinquent owner. Owners may complain bitterly about the association going to such extremes, but it may be what the association needs to do to make sure assessments are taken seriously and paid. Not every option is available or right for every association. Associations may not have the money for litigation or ADR, and having restriction authority in their governing documents may be the best leverage that they have to collect dues. Other associations may not have facilities or benefits to restrict and filing a lawsuit or lien may be their only options. It is best for Boards to discuss with their attorney what options are possible and most beneficial to their specific association.

Written by: Rasneek Gujral & R.A. Hurley Rees Broome, PC rgujral@reesbroome.com rhurley@reesbroome.com

In Memoriam:

Michael Klein, CMCA®, AMS®

It is with great sadness that we share the loss of our friend and colleague, Michael “Mike” Klein, President of Commercial Real Estate & Construction Services at WPM Real Estate Management. Mike was well known in the real estate industry and a long-standing member of the Chesapeake Chapter of CAI. He was instrumental in building WPM’s in-house services team to offer clients comprehensive construction services for ongoing preventive maintenance, capital improvement projects, and emergency response to crisis situations. As a licensed commercial real estate agent, he also led the growth of WPM’s commercial real estate portfolio. Mike’s career spanned nearly 40 years in property management. He joined WPM Real Estate Management as a founding partner in 2005. Prior to that, he spent 20 years with Metro Property Management, an association management firm he founded that served the needs of homeowner and condominium associations throughout the Baltimore region. His early career included work with Martin Realty, Fairfax Savings & Loan, and as an OSHA building inspector for the federal government.

Committed to education and training, Mike earned the Certified Community Association Manager (CMCA®) and

2023 Professional Management Development Program (PMDP)

For more information and to view the list of courses offered in 2023, visit www.caionline.org/LearningCenter/ Education-for-Managers/Pages/default.aspx

Association Management Specialist (AMS®) designations. He also held an A.A. degree in Real Estate from Catonsville Community College and a B.S. from St. Mary’s College of Maryland.

Driven by a passion to help others, Mike believed in giving back. He led a number of WPM’s community impact initiatives, including transformation of a vacant downtown Baltimore parking lot into a community food garden (Exeter Gardens) and construction of Hodge Podge Lodge educational classroom at Irvine Nature Center. He also volunteered in his personal life, fostering dogs and actively supporting nonprofit organizations in the region.

We are grateful for Mike’s many contributions to the profession and to CAI. He will be missed.

Splashing New Trends

Whether it’s time to overhaul an aging pool or add a new one, choosing the features is bound to be a hot topic. Do you build a separate wading pool or include a large zero entry area? What about a built-in or separate splash pad? Diving board, sliding board, climbing walls, lazy river, tanning ledge, sitting shelf, shade structures… the list is endless. While much of the project will be budget driven, some of the latest, most popular trends may help you narrow down the options. The most popular feature, whether as part of a new facility or refurbished, is a splash pad. Some are incorporated into a large, zero-entry area of the main pool and include waterfalls and lighting. Others are separate and include elements to entertain. Hilton Head Plantation POA included a splash pad when they built a new complex in 2016, that incorporates music and timed water streams for interactive play. Whether splashing in or out of the main pool, these new pads are replacing the traditional wading pool.

Existing wading pools are being repurposed not only into splash pads but also waterplay areas for all. In 2020, Broadlands Association in Virginia converted three wading pools into a 20’ x 40’ recreation pool with volleyball and basketball. GM Sarah Gerstein shared the “area that was totally underutilized is now thoroughly enjoyed by a wide variety of ages”. Large, zero-entry areas (gentle slope instead of steps) are also replacing the traditionally separate shallow pools. Instead of having to potentially move between two pools, parents can relax in the zero-entry area of the main pool with younger children while still being able to maintain a watchful eye on their older kids,” says Brett Hamilton, Operations Manager of Lake Linganore Association.

Another big hit seems to be the sitting or tanning shelf. Some are narrower for simply sitting in the water around the edge while others are much wider and allow for lounge chairs to sit down in the water. They allow members to enjoy being in the water while reading a book, sunning themselves, watching their children play or simply easily reaching for a beverage. These shelves can also incorporate another trending feature which is shade structures.

In addition to the obvious benefit of reduced UV exposure and nice aesthetics, shade structures also provide many other advantages to a community pool complex. They help keep tables, chair arms, and equipment surfaces cooler helping to reduce the chance of burnt fingers, feet, and arms. They can also extend the useful life of your equipment and amenities. Over time, with constant exposure, fabric, plastic, composite, and other materials may fade, deteriorate, crack, and warp faster. This not only speeds up the need for replacement, but it can also expose sharp edges and metal surfaces and cause injury. So, keeping them under shade can be helpful and useful in many ways.

Balancing the needs and desires of your members along with your reserve budget will certainly help your community decide the overall scope of your project, but with so many options, it may be hard for members and Boards to fine tune the details. There’s nothing wrong with leaning on the experience of others to help narrow the options. So, are any of these trendy features right for your community?

Written by: Michelle Jones, CMCA, AMS, PCAM General Manager, Lake Linganore Association gm@lakelinganore.org

MARYLAND LEGISLATIVE UPDATE

Once again the Maryland legislature had a busy legislative session and kept CAI’s Maryland Legislative Action Committee (“LAC”) busy as well. The LAC monitored, supported and opposed many bills. The following is a summary of legislation that passed and will go into effect on October 1, 2023, unless otherwise noted:

House Bill 90 addresses invasive bamboo and authorizes counties and municipalities to adopt ordinances to regulate invasive bamboo, which may include prohibiting a person from selling it, planting it, or allowing it to grow without proper upkeep and containment measures. It also authorizes counties and municipalities to establish civil fines and other enforcement measures for violations of the ordinances.

House Bill 98/Senate Bill 403 modified the insurance requirements for residential condominiums and made a distinction between attached or multifamily condominium units and detached condominium units. When it comes to detached condominium units, the condominium’s council of unit owners is only required to obtain and maintain insurance covering the common elements and the owner of the detached unit is required to carry insurance covering the entirety of the unit. Prior to the modifications imposed by this bill, the council of unit owners was required to maintain insurance covering the unit, excluding betterments and improvements installed by unit owners other than the developer.

House Bill 505/Senate Bill 198 addresses elevator safety and requires the registration of an elevator in a privately owned single-family dwelling with the Maryland Commissioner of Labor and Industry prior to placing the elevator in service. This bill goes into effect July 1, 2023.

House Bill 830 requires any new construction of singlefamily detached houses, duplexes and townhouses that

include a garage, carport or driveway to include the installation of one electric vehicle charging station or a dedicated electric line of sufficient voltage to support the installation of an electric vehicle charging station. The bill also requires the Maryland Energy Administration to study the cost of requiring newly constructed multifamily residential buildings to include electric vehicle charging stations and the cost to retrofit existing multifamily residential buildings with electric vehicle charging stations. The study must also determine the appropriate ratios of electric vehicle charging stations to dwelling units based on the estimated number of electric vehicles that will be on Maryland roads each year from 2024 through 2050, and options for paying for vehicle charging directly at the stations or through rent, condominium fees or homeowners association fees. The Maryland Energy Administration must report its findings and recommendations to the Governor on or before December 1, 2023.

House Bill 844 requires the Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development to establish and maintain a website that provides information on the rights and responsibilities of residents living in a common ownership community, along with hyperlinks to the websites of each local common ownership community program in the state, and hyperlinks to statewide legislation regarding the rights and responsibilities of residents living in a common ownership community.

Senate Bill 106/House Bill 42 addresses exemptions from judgment executions and exempts up to $500 in a deposit account held by a debtor in a bank, credit union, trust company, or savings and loan association. The exemption applies separately to each depository institution. A writ of garnishment to a depository institution must contain certain notices regarding the exemption.

House Bill 1292/Senate Bill 970 requires certain highrise buildings, beginning July 1, 2023, to have automatic smoke alarms installed in each public corridor accessible by units. In addition, by January 1, 2033, each high-rise building, regardless of the date of construction, shall have an automatic sprinkler system installed, except for buildings where each unit has exterior exit access as provided in the NFPA 101:Life Safety Code. If a high-rise building is not protected with an automatic sprinkler system, each unit must be equipped with a fire extinguisher. In addition, beginning on July 1, 2023, the owner of a high-rise building that is not protected with an automatic sprinkler system must comply with certain notice requirements and post conspicuous notices at all main building entrances that the building is not protected by an automatic sprinkler system and is required to have an automatic sprinkler system by January 1, 2033. The Department of Housing and Community Development, in coordination with the State Fire Marshal and the Maryland Department of Emergency Management, shall identify funding sources to assist the owners of high-rise buildings in installing the automatic sprinkler systems.

Senate Bill 535 addresses housing discrimination and prohibits discrimination in the sale or rental of housing to a person with a disability who has a service dog. The bill amended existing law to define and address service dogs. A service dog is defined as a dog that is individually trained to do work or perform tasks for the benefit of an individual with a disability. A service dog does not include a dog that only provides emotional support or that is meant to deter crime. A disabled person who has a service dog cannot be required to pay additional rent or fees for the service dog, must be exempt from any prohibition of keeping dogs, and may keep a service dog in the dwelling for the life of the service dog even after its retirement from service.

If you have questions or comments, please contact CAI’s Government and Public Affairs team at government@ caionline.org.

Written by: Judyann Lee, Esq. Partner at McMillan Metro, P.C. jlee@mcmillanmetro.com

Community Management Corporation (CMC) proudly announces the promotion of: Heather McGeeney, PCAM, to Vice President, Maryland Division

Karen Fooks, PCAM, to Maryland Division Director

Cheryl Butler-Walker, PCAM, to Maryland Division Director, Prince Georges Region. All bring collectively over 50 years of Community and Condo Management experience and a wealth of knowledge and leadership to CMC’s Maryland Team.

We Want

Hear From

We routinely handle a variety of tasks for our clients including the review of vendor contracts, the preparations of resolutions and amendments to governing documents, the enforcement of covenants, bylaws and rules, and the collection of delinquent accounts.

CALS actively represents associations throughout Anne Arundel, Baltimore, Calvert, Carroll, Charles, Frederick, Howard, Montgomery, Prince George’s, and St. Mary’s county in Maryland, and is wellacquainted with the courts in these Maryland counties.

We are members of the Washington Metropolitan and Chesapeake chapters of the Community Association Institute. We belong to the Maryland State Bar Association, D.C. Bar Association, Montgomery County Bar Association, and Prince George's County Bar Association.

At CALS, our attorneys and staff strive to provide the most cost-effective legal representation to community associations throughout Maryland.

Community Association Legal Services, LLC

Community Association Legal Services, LLC, (CALS), is a boutique law firm practicing homeowners’ association, cooperative, and condominium law.

THE HIDDEN DANGERS OF SPRINGTIME HOW TO AVOID MOLD & WATER DISASTERS

Awareness of seasonal hazards like mold is not only important for your property, it’s necessary to maintain occupant safety and health. This article reviews the most common hidden dangers that come with warmer weather and provides tips and suggestions for preventing and dealing with mold and water damage.

Mold + Springtime = Perfect Storm

Why is mold most apparent during the spring and summer months?

Springtime creates the ‘perfect storm’ scenario for mold growth because of the warmer weather and heavy rainfall. Mold is caused by warm and humid conditions and is likely to grow and become a problem where there is indoor moisture, dampness, flooding, leaky roofs, improper ventilation, faulty appliances, high humidity, improper landscaping grading or most commonly, indoor plumbing issues.

Mold Facts:

• 100% of all types of mold have the potential to cause some health effects (EPA)

• 8 symptoms of mold: sneezing, itchy & watery eyes, runny or itchy nose, congestion, dry mouth and respiratory issues.

• 93% of chronic sinus infections attributed to mold (Mayo Clinic)

• 70% of structures estimated to have mold behind walls (Harvard EDU)

• 100,000 different species and types of mold

• 30% of brand new homes have mold (CNN)

What Can I Do to Prevent Mold & Bacterial Growth & Limit Damages?

Quick action is required when visible leaks or standing water is present. Water is unforgiving and mold and structural damages can begin within mere hours of an incident. Prolonging action can cause severe secondary damages, contact your community manager for immediate assistance!

Follow these steps until a mitigation professional can intervene:

DO NOT:

❍ Enter a room with standing water

❍ Use household vacuum to remove water

❍ Remove wall-to-wall carpet

❍ Use electrical appliances while on wet flooring

❍ Do not remove books from shelves, instead pack them in tightly to prevent page warping

❍ Disturb visible mold

❍ Wait for standing water to dry on its own

DO:

❍ Contact your property manager or restoration professional and notify them of damages

❍ Remove as much water as possible by mopping/blotting

❍ Remove wet area rugs or other floor coverings

❍ Wipe down furniture and prop-up wet draperies & furniture cushions for even drying

❍ Move wall hangings to a safe, dry location

❍ Open drawers, closets and cabinet doors to enhance drying

Is it Mold or Mildew?

Both are Fungi, love damp environments and can grow on virtually any surface. Both can also cause air quality issues and exposure symptoms, putting occupants at risk of serious illness.

Mildew:

• Texture: powdery

• Colors: gray, white, black, yellow, brown

• Growth pattern: grows flat on the surface

• Exposure symptoms: headache, respiratory issues, sore throat

• How to remove safely: can be easily removed with common household cleaning products (remember: follow the manufacturer instructions carefully!)

Mold:

• Texture: Slimy or fuzzy

• Colors include: black, white, yellow, green, pink

• Growth pattern: burrows under the surface

• Exposure symptoms: respiratory issues, chronic cough, sinus irritation, headache, allergic reaction, rash, neurological issues, joint pain, hair loss, chronic fatigue, nausea and death

• How to remove safely: contact professional help

Assessing the Damage: When to Seek Help

Warning Signs:

• visible mold

• water stains on walls and ceiling

• cracks around windows or doors

• musty smell or strange odor present

• wood rot around exterior doors and trim

• peeling paint

• leaking faucets, bath or toilets

• improper bathroom ventilation

Contact your Community Manager and seek a licensed restoration professional if you have:

• Visible mold or suspect an occurrence of mold based on the warning signs above

• Severe allergic reactions/air quality issues

• Standing water or visible water leakage from a recent rainfall or flood and need extraction & structural drying services

• Recent sewage backup or other plumbing issues

Written by: Adrianne Gracias Director, Marketing, Tri State Restorations Tri State Restorations agracias@tristaterestores.com

2023 Events

JANUARY

Wednesday, 18th - Charting Your Course Webinar (9-10 am)

Wednesday, 25th - How to Get the Most Out of Your Management

Contract Homeowner Webinar (6:30-8:30 pm)

FEBRUARY

Wednesday, 15th

Breakfast Webinar: Money Management (9:30 am - Noon)

MARCH

Wednesday, 22nd

Breakfast Seminar: Deeper Dive Into Reserve Studies & Funding

Ten Oaks Ballroom, Clarksville, MD

APRIL

Wednesday, 12th - Happy Hour at Guinness Brewery

Halethorpe, MD

Friday, 21st - Delmarva Breakfast Seminar: Budget Roundtable

Atlantic Sands Hotel & Conference Center Rehoboth, DE

MAY

Monday, 8th - Delmarva Golf Outing

Glen Riddle Golf Club, Berlin, MD

Wednesday - Saturday, 17th - 20th - CAI National Conference Dallas, TX

Wednesday, 24th - Breakfast Webinar: Board Meetings (9:30 am - Noon)

JUNE

Thursday, 15th - Multi-Chapter Block Party

Lone Oak Farm Brewing Co., Olney, MD

BuildingCommunitiesBetter

JULY

Wednesday, 12th - Manager Huddle (Virtual)

Thursday, 20th - Crab Feast

Sandy Point Park Annapolis, MD

AUGUST

Tuesday, 1st - The Complete Player Charity Event

Monday, 14th - Golf Outing

Norbeck Country Club, Rockville, MD

Wednesday, 16th - Landscaping Day

Marley Glen School, Glen Burnie, MD

Date TBD - Manager Huddle (Virtual)

SEPTEMBER

Wednesday, 13th - Breakfast Seminar:

“The Top Five Things You Should Know Before You

Ten Oaks Ballroom, Clarksville, MD

OCTOBER

Monday, 2nd - Annual Expo & Symposium

LIVE! Casino and Hotel Hanover, MD

Friday, 27th - Annual Social historic Savage Mill, Savage, MD

NOVEMBER

Friday, 10th - Delmarva Expo Princess Royale, Ocean City, MD

DECEMBER

Wednesday, 13th - Breakfast Seminar: Strange But True Things That Happen in Our Industry and at Your Community Ten Oaks Ballroom, Clarksville, MD