Spring/Summer 2024

BEA C ON THE

Spring/Summer 2024

Lookinsideforphotosfromour Delmarva Golf Outing, Breakfast Seminars, informative articlesonhottopics,informationon upcoming events & more!

In this Issue

EXECUTIVE BOARD

President James Anderson, PE Becht Engineering BT, Inc.

President-Elect Noni Roan, CMCA

Pinnacle Financial Partners

Vice-President Vicki Eaton, CMCA, AMS, PCAM, LSM

Secretary Hillary Collins, Esq. Rees Broome, PC

Treasurer Rebecca Clemson-Petrik, CMCA, AMS, PCAM FirstService Residential

DIRECTORS

Cynthia McKoin, Potomac Ridge Condominium, Inc.

Gary Saylor, Atlantic Maintenance Group

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

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

COMMITTEE CHAIRS & VICE CHAIRS

Communications Adrianne Gracias, Chair Tri State Restorations

Vince Scarfo, CMCA, Vice-Chair Clear : Restoration and PreDisaster Consulting

Delmarva Chad Toms, Chair WHITEFORD

Lisa Meck, CMCA, AMS, Vice-Chair Carl M. Freeman Companies

Education Michelle Jones, CMCA, AMS, PCAM, LSM, Chair General Manager, Lake Linganore Association

Christa Brady, AMS, PCAM, CIRMS, Vice-Chair USI Insurance Services

EXPO

Golf

Chesapeake Region Chapter of CAI

Valerie Lykins, Executive Director

Angela Marsh, Marketing and Events Manager

Mahogani Brevett, Administrative Specialist

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

Ellen Throop, Esq., Chair Davis, Agnor, Rapaport & Skalny, LLC

Joanne Frallicciardi, CMCA, AMS, Vice-Chair Pelican Property Management, AAMC

Chase Hudson, CIRMS, Chair Sahouri Insurance

T.J. Socks, Vice-Chair Becht Engineering BT

Legislative Cynthia Hitt Kent, Esq., Chair

Law Office of Cynthia Hitt Kent, LLC

Karen Fooks, CMCA, AMS, PCAM, Vice-Chair Community Management Corporation/Associa

Magazine Michelle Baldry, Chair Reserve Advisors

Don Plank, PCAM, Vice-Chair EJF Real Estate Services

Membership Jennifer Melson, CMCA, AMS, Chair

Premier Property Management

Beth Bencivenni, Vice-Chair

RestoreCore

Social

Eddie Ramos, Chair

Atlantic Maintenance Group

Kelly Rae, Vice-Chair Roofpro, LLC

Succession. PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE

(More on that later…)

Happy Spring! It looks like spring is finally here and that hopefully means everyone is getting out more. More daylight! More activities!

Pool season…

Landscaping…

Building/Community maintenance and winter/spring cleanups…

These are some of our seasonal activities which, sometimes unfortunately, are necessary for us to engage in to enjoy some of the fruits of our labors.

Speaking of enjoying fruits of our labors –our Chesapeake Chapter CAI events season is underway! We’ve had fantastic education sessions (both virtually and in-person, and on BOTH sides of the Bay Bridge), our first of TWO Chapter golf events is complete, our in-person and remote Breakfast Seminars are in the books – great work! Our second golf outing at the Norbeck Country Club in Rockville is right around the corner... followed by our annual Crab Feast… followed by our 2nd Joint Chapter Social Event… followed by… (you get the picture)! Needless to say, our committees have been working hard to get all of these events underway so kudos and thank you!

I know in my last writing, I emphasized “back to basics” and focusing on building quality over engaging in bigger/new things. Well, I’m sorry but… We are doing one new thing this year – we’re participating in planning and organizing the Virginia Leadership Retreat (VLR) with our amazing neighbors at the Washington Metro, Central Virginia and Southwest Virginia Chapters. The event is geared towards providing PCAM level education sessions, high level networking and amazing social interactions. If you’ve never been, the best way I can describe it is an education session/expo/social/happy hour all in one, spread over three days in a beautiful (but remote) setting. I hope our Chapter members will take advantage and I look forward to seeing you there.

Returning to Succession…

Succession can mean many things, from seasonal changes and new growth to corporate succession: finding and training people to take our places as we transition to different phases of life. Here I sit, just about in the middle of my season as Chapter President and I couldn’t be more amazed and proud of what we’re doing. Guess what? Succession -

before we know it, our amazing Chapter Staff will have a new “boss” and the cycle will continue. I credit my predecessors for setting up processes and planning for every new Chapter President to succeed. Is succession in a “replacement” mindset enough? Wouldn’t it be better to have the next generation be or do “better?” How do we do that? (Feel free to put your comments in the chat box.)

Continuing with my engagement theme, how does engagement relate to succession? I’d suggest it’s critical – we can easily elect new Board members and nominate people to serve on committees, but while we’re focusing on our daily to-dos or juggling schedules and out-of-control inboxes, it’s critically important we look to the future. Our Chapter is made up of many, many hard-working people, many of whom I’ve had the pleasure of learning from and working with over the years, some of whom I am just getting to know. None

of us are getting younger, so we really need to keep our focus on identifying and training those people that will replace us. This year is almost half over – time is flying by; I’m looking forward to seeing many of you all at our upcoming events. I’d love to hear your thoughts about succession and our Chapter.

PS: Spoiler alert – I’ve not finished watching the show –don’t tell me how it ends.

Regards,

James W. Anderson

James

W. Anderson, P.E Chesapeake Region Chapter President

Vice

President/Principal Engineer, Becht Engineering BT

Ms. Evelyn Appleman

Welcome new members

Clipper Cay Condominium Council of Unit Owners, Inc.

Tammy Baczynskyj Life Safety Systems

Mr. Dave Baldo

Excel Management Services Inc.

Ms. Mary Ann Bastnagel

The Residence Park Place Condominium

Chris Becker

The Mallard Lake Community Association Inc

Marie Bernier

Village at Bear Trap Dunes

Mr. Paul Bookstein

Clipper Cay Condominium Council of Unit Owners, Inc.

Mr. Michael Boyle

Meadows At Shawnee

Gayle Brooks

Village at Bear Trap Dunes

Mr. John Brown

iSTORMWATER

Mr. Whistler Burch

Roundwood Ridge III Condominium

Mr. Zane Byers

Clipper Cay Condominium Council of Unit Owners, Inc.

Mr. Alex Campbell

Greenbelt Station Master Association

Mr. Tony Capone

Sawgrass Community Homeowners Association

Mrs. Emily Carey Feazel, Inc.

Fagan Carey

Village at Bear Trap Dunes

Mrs. Michelle Cerny

Mr. Carl Cherney

Independence HOA

Sydney Chittum

Tidewater Property Management

Ms. Emmy Cole

Coventry at Westminster

Mr. Michael Comeau

Clipper Cay Condominium Council of Unit Owners, Inc.

Ms. Penny Comeau

Clipper Cay Condominium Council of Unit Owners, Inc.

William Costa

Village at Bear Trap Dunes

Marie Curran

Village at Bear Trap Dunes

Mrs. Shirley Davis

Clagett Enterprises, Inc.

Mr. Hank Davis

Coventry at Westminster

Pat DeCanio

Village at Bear Trap Dunes

Mr. Arnold Di Gregorio

Waverly Woods West HOA

Ms. Anna Dolina

Rosslare Ridge Condominium, Inc

Ms. Evelyn Dorn

Clipper Cay Condominium Council of Unit Owners, Inc.

Mr. Larry Edmonds

American Pest

Ms. Johanna Eisenberger

Mr. John Evans

Two Rivers Homeowners Association

Ms. Sandy Evans

Waverly Woods West HOA

Mr. David Felt

Captain’s Cove Golf & Yacht Club, Inc.

Mr. Phillip Garner

Legum & Norman, Inc.

Jim Garrity

Village at Bear Trap Dunes

Mr. Paul Graves

Marsh Farm Estates

Mr. George Guthridge

Captain’s Cove Golf & Yacht Club, Inc.

Mr. Frank Haberek

Captain’s Cove Golf & Yacht Club, Inc.

Patricia Haughton

CUO Watermark Place Condominium Residences

Mr. Bruce Hedrick

Chapel Hill Community Association, Inc

Ms. Cheney Hibschman

Rosslare Ridge Condominium, Inc

Mr. Wayne Hill

Twelve Trees Association

Ms. Anne Holub

Marsh Farm Estates

Mr. Trevor Huey

RSC Electrical, Inc.

Ms. Geneva Hunter

Mr. Ken Jeske

Sawgrass Community Homeowners Association

Bob Johnson

Village at Bear Trap Dunes

Leigh ann Johnson

Legum & Norman

Mr. Garland Johnson

Marsh Farm Estates

Ms. Michelle Kolankowski

Brookshire I Condominium Association

Mr. Jack Kopko

Platinum Roofs

Mrs. Tammy Langley

Vacasa Community Association Management

Peter Leibhold

CUO Watermark Place Condominium Residences

Mr. Len Levy

Bay Forest Community Association

Mr. Kevin Lindsey

Cedar Bay Condominiums Owners Association

Fei Liu

Greenbelt Station Master Association

Mr. Cornell Lynch

Greenbelt Station Master Association

Mr. Thomas Mack

Chester River Landing Council of Unit Owners

Mr. Mark Majerus

Captain’s Cove Golf & Yacht Club, Inc.

Mr. William Malfara

Clipper Cay Condominium Council of Unit Owners, Inc.

Ms. Deborah Mathias

Carroll Vista Condominium I, Inc.

Mr. Brandon Mckinley

Legum & Norman

Ms. Danielle McKinney

Greenbelt Station Master Association

Mr. Steve Mikelman

Marsh Farm Estates

Ms. Marion Miller

CUO Watermark Place Condominium Residences

Robin Miller

Marsh Farm Estates

Mr. Kevin Milligan

The McGowan Companies

Ms. Rae Millman

Welcome new members

Ms. Amy Sloane

Kendall Overlook Condominium

Ms. Suzanne Soules

CUO Watermark Place Condominium Residences

Joe Molash

Marsh Farm Estates

Mr. Sean Moore

Peninsula Village Community Association, Inc.

Mr. Glenn Mortoro

The Residence Park Place Condominium

Julianna Nally

Ms. Ruth Nimmo

CUO Watermark Place Condominium Residences

Mr. Thomas Novak

Independence HOA

Mr. Wayne Ortner

Sawgrass Community Homeowners Association

Ms. Meg Oskam

Carroll Vista Condominium I, Inc.

Ms. Pat Pelino

Captain’s Cove Golf & Yacht Club, Inc.

Mr. Kurtis Peterson

The Inspectors of Election, LLC

Mr. Mark Post

Sawgrass Community Homeowners Association

David Price

Village at Bear Trap Dunes

Ms. Shirley Raymond

Holland Mills Homeowners Association

Mr. Rob Reigle

Two Rivers Homeowners Association

Ms. Karen Ritgert

Cedar Bay Condominiums Owners Association

Mrs. Ercilia Rodriguez

Metropolis Condominium Management, Inc

Mr. Gerard Rosolie

Forest Landing Community Association, Inc.

Ashley Seen

Ms. Joanne Settel

CUO Watermark Place Condominium Residences

William Sharp

CUO Watermark Place Condominium Residences

Mr. Mark Shekletski

Greenlink Incorporated

Mr. Carlos Siquel

Community Management Corporation

Kendall Overlook Condominium

Mr. Justin Spradling

Marsh Farm Estates

Ms. Elizabeth Staley

Clipper Cay Condominium Council of Unit Owners, Inc.

Mr. John Stottlemire

Carroll Vista Community Association

Ms. Rebecca Strandberg

Clipper Cay Condominium Council of Unit Owners, Inc.

Mr. Mike Sunderman

Greenbelt Station Master Association

Joe Teipe

Village at Bear Trap Dunes

Ms. Diane Thompson

Waverly Woods West HOA

Ms. Angel Thornes

Metropolis Condominium Management

Mr. Harry Towner

Independence HOA

Ms. Tatia Troy

Stoneridge Condominium

Steve Tuleya

Village at Bear Trap Dunes

Mr. Thomas Twedt

White Flint Station Condominium

David Vincent Legum & Norman

Ms. Donna Voigt

Sawgrass Community Homeowners Association

Ms. Ariel Walker

Community Management Corporation

Mr. Stan Walz

The Residence Park Place Condominium

Mr. Keith Warner

Holland Mills Homeowners Association

Ms. Rochelle Washington

Two Rivers Homeowners Association

Ms. Susan Watkins

CUO Watermark Place Condominium Residences

Mr. Ron Weisletten

Rose Paving

Mr. Michael Wolk

Independence HOA

Thursday, July 25th from 3:00 – 7:00 pm

Sandy Point State Park • Annapolis, MD

Flounder Pavilion Beach Front

Early-Bird rates for homeowners and manager members ends on Wednesday, May 15th!

TICKET PRICING:

Tickets include unlimited crabs, BBQ, drinks, and games!

Early-Bird Homeowner members – $55

Early-Bird Manager members - $65

Business Partner members - $95

Ticket price for all member registrations after May 15th - $95

Non-Members - $115

THREE LEVELS OF SPONSORSHIP ARE AVAILABLE!

Medium - $500

Includes signage at the event and inclusion on email and social media marketing.

Large - $700 (Limited to 5)

Includes one ticket to the event, a pop-up tent and table at the event for a representative and marketing materials, and inclusion on email and social media marketing. Sponsor is responsible for providing their own pop-up tent and table.

Jumbo - $1,100 (Limited to 2)

Includes two tickets to the event, your company logo on a koozie given to all attendees, a pop-up tent and table at the event for a representative and marketing materials, an opportunity to introduce your company during the event and inclusion on email and social media marketing. Sponsor is responsible for providing their own pop-up tent and table.

$5 park entry fee per person upon arrival

SCAN TO REGISTER

MARYLAND HIDDEN GEMS

Visit Frederick: A Place to Love

People refer to Frederick as historic, charming, vibrant, and the heart and soul of a city brimming with culture. I think Frederick, Maryland captures all of these qualities. It offers a history of events of national importance. Whether taking in the sites on foot or venturing out to Frederick County, Frederick offers plenty of reasons to visit.

Frederick is rich in history dating back to colonial times. The city played a pivotal role during the Civil War and was the site of several significant battles and events. Visitors can explore historic sites such as the Schifferstadt Architectural Museum, built in 1758. It is the oldest standing house in the city and offers one of the finest examples of German-Georgian colonial architecture.

Or visit the National Museum of Civil War Medicine and learn the fascinating history of the medical practices and challenges faced by doctors and nurses during the Civil War era. Uncover how this medicine impacts us today.

The Barbara Fritchie House and Museum teaches you about the legendary American patriot who waved the Union flag defiantly during the Confederate General Stonewall Jackson’s march through Frederick in 1862. At the age of 95, her brave words, captured in John Greenleaf Whittier’s famous poem, were “Shoot, if you must, this old gray head, but spare your country’s flag!” Did you know the house has been renovated as an Airbnb?

Barbara Fritchie is buried in Frederick’s historic Mount Olivet Cemetery along with another Frederick native, Francis Scott Key, the author of “The Star-Spangled Banner.” Visitors can explore the monument and memorial park and learn about Key’s contributions to American history.

Be sure also to visit the Monocacy National Battlefield, where the Battle of Monocacy Junction took place in 1864 (often referred to as “The Battle that Saved Washington, D.C.”) These sites provide educational and outdoor exploration.

Frederick’s charming downtown can be enjoyed on foot to take in the 18th and 19th century architecture.

Historic walking tours, driving tours, or bicycle tours are an exciting way to learn about the past. Be sure to check out the Frederick Visitor Center which offers maps, brochures, and information about self-guided tours. The Center offers information about the city’s architecture, landmarks, and notable residents.

Market Street is a shopper’s paradise. The street is lined with quaint shops, art galleries, cozy cafes, and restaurants that offer a range of culinary experiences.

Following two devastating floods in the 1970’s, the City of Frederick designed an underground system to convey the storm water safely through downtown Frederick. This mile and a half long park is known as “Carroll Creek Park.” Be sure to visit and enjoy the waterway lined with sculptures and artwork. Bring your camera to capture the colorful paintings, vibrant flowers, and the unique architecture along the creek.

Do not miss the opportunity to view the beauty of the old churches in downtown Frederick - known as the “City of Clustered Spires.” This is a group of historic church steeples from Evangelical Lutheran Church, All Saint’s Episcopal Church, St. John the Evangelist Roman Catholic Church, Trinity Chapel, and more.

While in downtown Frederick, be sure to check out the murals and street art. Explore the alleyways and side streets to discover hidden gems and vibrant artwork. Be sure to check out “The Edge of Gravity Mural,” “Splash of Color Mural at South & Market,” “Community Bridge Mural,” “Earthbound Mural,” and many others.

Cultural attractions include the Weinberg Center for the Arts, New Spire Arts, and the Maryland Ensemble Theatre (ME), which hosts a variety of live performances and cultural events. Check out the Delaplaine Arts Center where you can enjoy local artwork and take art classes.

Families will find plenty of attractions in Frederick. Baker Park offers playgrounds, walking trails and recreational facilities. The Joseph Dill Baker Memorial Carillon was constructed as a memorial to “Frederick’s First Citizen,” Joseph Dill Baker. The instrument and tower offer weekly carillon recitals on Sunday from March through December.

Nature lovers can also enjoy outdoor recreation with destinations such as Catoctin Mountain Park and Cunningham Falls State Park. These parks offer hiking, picnicking, fishing, and breathtaking landscape scenes.

You may also want to explore the three historic covered bridges in Frederick County. These charming, covered bridges are listed on the National Park Services National Register and include Loy’s Station Covered Bridge, Utica Mills Covered Bridge, and Roddy Road Covered Bridge. These covered bridges were built before the Civil War and have survived floods, fires, and stand the test of time. They offer great photo opportunities with rustic backdrops that will give you timeless images.

Visitors can enjoy wine and brewery tours along the Frederick Wine Trail, where they can discover several wineries and breweries. These establishments offer tastings, tours, and the opportunity to sample a variety of locally crafter beers and wines. It’s a wonderful way to experience the flavors of the region and learn about the art of brewing and winemaking.

Throughout the year, there are festivals and events celebrating music, art, food, and culture. Highlights include the Maryland Craft Beer Festival in May, Frederick Festival of the Arts and Frederick Pride in June, High Wheel Race in July, The Great Frederick Fair in September, Railroad Days and Catoctin Colorfest in October, and Candlelight tour of Historic House of Worship in December, Sailing Through the Winter

Solstice (all winter long), Frederick Fire in Ice sculptures in February, and the Candlelight Ghost tours (April through December).

One cannot leave the city without visiting one of the oldest institutions in Frederick and knowing Frederick’s value of education. Established in 1893 as the Women’s College of Frederick, Hood College is widely respected for its strong ties to the community and the region’s history. Located on 50 acres, this historic institution of higher education is conveniently situated within walking distance of downtown Frederick. In addition to Hood College, Frederick boasts other educational institutions such as Frederick Community College, Frederick County Public Schools, and various private schools, all of which contribute to the city’s rich and historic opportunities.

Take time to visit Frederick, a convenient location that offers a welcoming atmosphere away from the hustle and bustle of city life. Enjoy the many sites of Frederick and allow Frederick to captivate you!

For more information: https://www.visitfrederick.org/plan-your-visit/visitor-center/ https://www.visitfrederick.org/events/

Written by:

Connie E Phillips, CIC, EBP, CIRMS

Certified Insurance Counselor (CIC)

National Community Association Institute

Educated Business Partner (EBP) Community Insurance and Risk Management Specialist (CIRMS) Connie Phillips Insurance 888-439-0479

cpi@insurance-financial.net

Many Thanks

TO OUR ANNUAL SPONSOR S!

2024 DIAMOND SPONSORS

Atlantic Maintenance Group

Becht Engineering BT, Inc.

Hann & Hann Construction Services

Kris Konstruction Roofing Professionals

MillerDodson Associates, Inc.

Minkoff Company

Nagle & Zaller, P.C.

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

2024 PLATINUM SPONSORS

Davis, Agnor, Rapaport & Skalny

Duradek MidAtlantic

EJF Real Estate Services

Four Twelve Roofing

Palmer Brothers Painting & General Contracting

SI Restoration WHITEFORD

WPM Real Estate Management

2024 Gold Sponsors

Clear: Restoration and PreDisaster Consulting

D.H. Bader Management, Inc.

FirstService Residential

Condominium Venture, Inc.

Why Many HOA Rules May Not Be Enforceable in Maryland Why Many HOA Rules May Not Be Enforceable in Maryland

Whether they were drafted 10 years ago by a developer, amended last week by an HOA’s Board of Directors, meticulously hewed to the letter of the law, long and technical or brief and simple, the bylaws, architectural guidelines and rules of every Maryland homeowner’s association all have one essential trait in common. None of them are enforceable unless they have been filed in one of the HOA Depositories set up by the State.

Maryland enacted this requirement so that the public can know where to access the regulations and policies that pertain to any particular association.

That is not a problem with some legal documents. For example, when we create HOA’s for our homebuilder and developer clients, we file their Articles of Incorporation with the State Department of Assessments and Taxation. We also record the Declaration of Covenants, Conditions, Easements and Restrictions in the Land Records of the County where the HOA is located.

But other than the Depositories, there is no comparable official “home” for HOA bylaws and rules. According to State law, the bylaws and any rules – setting forth the association’s operating procedures and covering everything from the election of directors to fees collection procedures and architectural control guidelines – must be submitted to the Depository in the association’s County (or Baltimore City). And this is not a “one time only” submission. New or revised rules, policies and guidelines adapted by the HOA’s Board of Directors must also be submitted.

This is where things can get dicey. It is perfectly possible to publish bylaws and rules without putting them in the Depository. It’s also possible – and even likely – that Boards will add or change governing rules without updating the Depository’s records. The HOA may even function forever without consequence.

But if owners or other interested parties consult the Depository – and discover that a particular rule or regulation is not on record – they have grounds to disregard it. It is perfectly conceivable that an association might be unable to enforce properly adopted rules. A supplemental fee levied as the result of an unrecorded Board decision may be uncollectible. A homeowner may even discover legitimate grounds to challenge a duly held election.

The Depository filings can be made by developers and builders during the time they are in control of the HOA, and by owner-controlled Boards of Directors after transition of control from the developer or builder.

Whatever your relationship may be to an HOA – as a founding developer, a Board member or homeowner – it is absolutely crucial to add newly adopted bylaws, rules, policies, and other guidelines to the Depository so that they remain up-to-date and enforceable.

Michael Faerber is the Managing Partner and Chair of the Real Estate Department for the law fir m, McMillan Metro Faerber P.C., located in Potomac, Maryland. McMillan Metro Faerber, P.C. represents developers, builders, homeowners and condominium associations on all aspects of real estate, business and governance legal issues.

Written by: Michael Faerber Shareholder, McMillan Metro Faerber, P.C. mfaerber@mcmillanmetro.com

WE PROVIDE EXCEPTIONAL SERVICE

INNOVATIVE TECHNOLOGY

The utilization of web based software with accompanying app allows transparent, easily accessible information for homeowners and board members alike.

YOUR MANAGEMENT RESOURCE

Our mission is to be familiar with every property, to understand our owners’ problems and successes, to pay attention to detail, and to visit each property often.

EXPERIENCED PROFESSIONALS

Our team undergoes extensive training and are members of CAI, allowing additional educational opportunities to ensure they are the most prepared and qualified team to provide you the best service.

COMPREHENSIVE SERVICES

From preparing notices and noncompliance letters to managing financials and contacts, Tidewater is a one stop shop for all your community management needs.

ABOUT US

Tidewater Property Management has grown to become one of the largest family owned and operated real estate management firms in the greater Baltimore area. With the reach to now serve Maryland, including the Eastern Shore, Pennsylvania, Delaware, Virginia, and West Virginia, Tidewater truly is the region’s Management Resource.

QUICK SERVICE

Our team is ready to serve 24/7/365! Whether board member or homeowner, our next business day response time guarantees quick, accurate service!

The Importance of Proactive Tree Management The Importance of Proactive Tree Management

Walk outside in just about any condominium community, HOA or neighborhood in the region and look around. What are the most visible, most dominant, most eye-catching features in the landscape? Chances are, they’re trees. Towering oaks, maples and poplars; stately elms, lindens and magnolias; lush evergreen pines; flowering dogwoods, cherries plums and redbuds. The trees in our yards and lining our streets provide an endless list of benefits. They provide fragrant florals in spring, cooling shade in summer, and vibrant foliage in autumn. Trees provide habitats and food for birds and wildlife, enhance the overall visual appeal of a neighborhood, and improve air quality. Due to the wide range of benefits derived from our urban forest, it should be considered an important part of a community’s infrastructure. Like any piece of important infrastructure, trees need to be properly and proactively maintained to ensure their long-term health. To protect these large leafy investments, a community needs a Tree Management Plan.

Unfortunately, HOA and community tree management doesn’t always happen proactively like it should. Instead, trees are often only in front of mind when they are a major problem for a community. A large branch breaks off in a storm and causes property damage, a beloved tree is ravaged by disease and becomes a visual blight, or unkempt and unruly growth threatens nearby structures or power lines. Major problems mean major expenses for a community. An effective and updated Tree Management Plan will allow a community to keep budgets in check while providing trees with the proactive maintenance they need to keep any small problems—and small costs—from getting out of control.

The responsibility of creating and maintaining a Tree Management Plan can be addressed by an HOA or Condominium’s architectural review or landscape/ grounds committees, or a new “tree management” committee could be established with the sole responsibility of creating, implementing, and regularly updating the Plan. Regardless of who spearheads

the process, the community should engage from the start with an independent tree consultant, certified arborist or tree care professional. The best place to turn for such a professional will be the community’s landscape maintenance contractor. They will either have someone properly certified already on staff, or they will have a close partnership with an independent arborist they can recommend. That person will assess the existing urban forest in the community and provide critical advice and guidance. They may even recommend conducting a tree inventory. This will create a comprehensive database of all community trees, their locations, their condition, and customized recommendations for their future care—or removal. The community should also account for regular inspections. Regular tree inspections can help identify issues early, and plan for maintenance or removal as needed.

The objectives of a Tree Management Plan should always be focused on one paramount goal: Maintaining the long-term health and vitality of the community’s urban forest. Actions to achieve that long-term goal should be clearly laid out, with corresponding budgets and timeframes. Some actions may be one-time events, like removing a large dead tree threatening to collapse in a storm. Other actions are ongoing, such as developing a fertilization program for the community trees or establishing a schedule for seasonal pruning depending on tree species. For example, evergreens can be effectively sheared back year-round, but flowering trees such as crapemyrtles should only be pruned in the winter to avoid stunting future growth and blooms.

An effective Tree Management Plan should include a combination of these short-term and long-term objectives. Short-term objectives should be analyzed by priority and cost, and then addressed accordingly.

Long-term objectives should be coordinated with the community’s landscape maintenance contractor to ensure they are part of the regular grounds maintenance.

In summary, trees are a vital component of any community, offering numerous benefits in terms of aesthetics, property values, and environmental quality. However, their management can present challenges related to costs, liability, and homeowner conflicts. By creating and maintaining a Tree Management Plan,

Best Practices for Tree Management Plans

Professional Support: Engage with independent tree consultants, certified arborists or tree care professionals to assess, maintain, and manage the trees within the community.

Clear Guidelines: Establish and communicate clear guidelines and policies for residents, related to tree planting, removal, and maintenance. This should include trees in common areas and those on resident property.

Proper Budgeting: Include tree care and maintenance in the annual budget, including funds for unexpected tree-related expenses, such as storm damage.

Written by: Jedd Narsavage, LEED AP Vice President of Design & Development, GreenSweep LLC jedd@greensweepllc.com

communities can harness the advantages of trees while effectively addressing these challenges.

The most important thing to remember is that a Tree Management Plan is only effective when it is constantly reviewed, updated and modified to match the changing urban forest characteristics of the community. The Plan should not just sit on a shelf and gather dust. It should be a living, breathing, growing entity. You know… like a tree!

Community Engagement: Educate residents about the benefits of trees and tree maintenance. Foster a sense of community responsibility for tree care and preservation.

Regular Inspections: Regularly assess trees for potential hazards, diseases or needs, especially those in high-traffic or high-risk areas. Proactively address issues.

Sustainable Care: Work with a landscape professional to implement sustainable tree care practices, such as mulching, proper pruning, and responsible watering. Choose a diverse range of tree species to reduce vulnerability to pests and diseases. Consider the local climate and soil conditions when selecting tree species.

Clearing invasive vines and undergrowth is essential to long-term tree health

Selective tree removals can be beneficial to the overall community urban forest

Proactive pruning improves tree health and growth habits

How Artificial Intelligence Chatbots Can Help You Now

If you, as a board member or property manager, had access to a free tool that could save you many hours of time and effort, wouldn’t you want to give it a try and encourage others to use it?

Artificial intelligence (AI) chatbots are such tools, and the purposes of this article are to describe some specific ways that chatbots can help HOAs and condominiums and also to pique your interest enough that you will try one out for yourself and then use your imagination to explore ways it can help you and your community.

While previous BEACON articles on AI have provided very valuable information on a broad and general level, you may have been left wondering how AI can help you right now. This article provides specific examples of how an AI chatbot, several of which are available for free, can draft documents, summarize information, and investigate issues.

At Kingsgate Condominium in Columbia, MD, we have used ChatGPT extensively to draft various policies and guidelines. Perhaps like many associations—especially those that have been in existence for many years—our founding documents do not deal with some current issues, and previous boards have drifted away from original practices. So when responsibility for landscaping shifted from the association to individual townhouse owners, we needed guidelines. Yes, we could have searched the internet for other association’s guidelines (how many would be enough?), tried to come up with a format (how to organize the topic?), and pieced together a draft. That would have taken many hours and much effort. Using ChatGPT, we typed in a few facts about our community and asked it to draft landscaping guidelines. It instantly produced an excellent, comprehensive draft. Of course, we asked ChatGPT to make some modifications to the draft (they are called “chat bots” because of this give and take), and we made some other minor modifications ourselves. That whole process took about 30 minutes, and when it was complete we had a document that we could distribute to the board and then to the community for comments and further tweaking.

Do you need a policy for installation and/or use of electrical vehicle charging stations? Guidelines for privacy screening for decks? Guidelines on the use and placement of PODS (portable on-demand storage)? A chatbot such as ChatGPT can be a huge help. If you have not used a chatbot for such tasks, you will be surprised—perhaps shocked—at how quickly chatbots can produce excellent draft documents.

ChatGPT also does a great job of summarizing. Have you done, or would you like to do, a survey of your community’s opinions on some issue? How would you go about summarizing the results? Copy and paste the survey results into ChatGPT, and you will be amazed at how quickly and accurately it will produce a summary.

Perhaps you have a major project coming up, and you want to make sure you are considering all the factors you should be considering. We asked ChatGPT questions about our

elevator modernization project. Much of the response confirmed what we already knew—that was helpful, too— but we also got other ideas of areas to investigate that saved us money. Again, we might have done something similar simply by searching the internet, but ChatGPT is much better at understanding complex questions than a normal search engine.

There are some caveats, of course, in using chatbots. They can “hallucinate”—i.e., make things up, so it’s best to ask for help with issues that you know something about so that you will be able to judge the quality of the output. Also, there is an art to asking the questions, or, as they say, in creating a good “prompt.” You should give the chatbot enough context for the prompt. Chatbots do have biases, too, based on the documents they have been trained on, so be careful of those. And you must take care to protect privacy. Don’t give the chatbot any privileged information because the privacy of your interactions with the chatbot is not guaranteed. A final caveat: the data available to most chatbots is not up to date and may be a year or more old, so you won’t find information about the latest happenings.

In spite of the caveats in using them, chatbots can be extremely helpful to community associations boards and managers. AI in general is going to have tremendous untold impact on the future, and capabilities are literally improving daily. But AI chatbots can be very useful right now, so give one a try!

Written by: Scribner Messenger Vice President, Kingsgate Condominium Association

In Memoriam

It is with great sadness that we announce that past Chesapeake Region Chapter Member, Carol Hooper, passed away on Tuesday, April 16th, 2024, at the age of 70.

Carol worked as a Community Manager at WPM Real Estate Management for over 20 years and was an active member of the Chesapeake Region Chapter for almost 10 years. Carol continued her passion for helping communities once she retired and joined the Homeowner’s Association Community Board at the Marina at Pepper’s Creek.

Please keep Carol’s family, friends and colleagues in your thoughts and prayers during this difficult time. Her kindness and willingness to help others will be dearly missed.

VIRGINIA LEADERSHIP RETREAT (VLR) Ahead of Its Time and Still Cutting Edge!

I still remember the call. It was 2012. Rebecca Woodring, then Chapter Executive Director of the Southeastern Virginia Chapter of CAI, was on the line. “Hey, Tom. I’m calling for the Virginia Leadership Retreat. We would like you to speak at the event. We have a topic for you – Manager in the Middle.” I had never heard of the event before. And the subject matter she asked me to present was not as expansive as I had wanted. Rebecca gave me the lowdown on the VLR and permitted me to push the envelope’s edge in the presentation. By the end of the conversation, I was hooked. A regional event bringing together people from the whole state? An event focused on leadership? Flexibility in the presentation to go deeply into current issues impacting management companies and managers at the time? I knew it would be a great experience…and I was right. Flash forward 12 years: I’ve been able to attend, sponsor, speak several times, and for the last two years, have had the privilege of being on the Committee that puts it all together. The VLR has become a highlight of my professional year.

CAI does a great job serving its community association volunteer leader, professional manager, and business partner members. The organization provides a wide variety of conferences, networking opportunities, and educational programs both nationally and through local chapters. But the Virginia Leadership Retreat is unique. It’s not just an educational and networking event, it’s an experience.

What Makes it So Special?

As I have reflected on the VLR experience, I believe it comes down to four factors:

(1) A focus on leadership and high-level learning for executives, experienced managers, and emerging leaders with opportunities for team building

(2) The value of a regional event that eases the burden and expense of travel while bringing people together who might not otherwise have the opportunity, leading to an enhanced level of camaraderie

(3) The benefit of an intimate space to deepen professional relationships and grow new ones

(4) A place to disconnect, relax, reset, and recharge, and for many, the chance to share the experience with family and loved ones

Balancing these four elements is a huge challenge, but doing so is vital for the VLR’s success.

The Past, The Present, and The Future

Interestingly, the industry is just now catching up to the VLR. CAI National’s CEO-MC Retreat and Law Conference have always been venues for higher-level subject matter. Still, it has only been in the last few years that local chapters have begun to create regional opportunities to share this value high-level content for industry leaders. We have also recently seen an uptick in multi-chapter joint venture events, all of which have been met with enthusiasm and yielded beneficial results. Yet, the VLR has been providing this unique value for 15 years! And, while it remains a Virginiacentered event and program, it now draws participants from other nearby states! Clearly, this was an excellent idea for a retreat. So I did a little digging to learn the origin story and found it fascinating.

The VLR was the brainchild of five visionary ladies. It all started with a family trip to the Boar’s Head Inn by Kim Niesel in 2008. Sitting on the porch during one sunny day, she had a flash of inspiration, visualizing a distinctive, Virginia-based, two-day event. Working with Rebecca, a budget and plan were proposed at a board meeting in early 2009. But there was a hitch – both the SEVA and Central Virginia Chapters would need to put up $5,000 each for seed money to make it happen. Two SEVA board members, Carol Lare and Bonnie Herring, immediately agreed to take the lead with Kim and Rebecca to make it happen. The SEVA Board saw the potential and approved the project. The reach out to the CVC Chapter Executive Director Stacey Drayer resulted in an enthusiastic buy-in and approval by the CVC Board. These five ladies shared this inspired vision with business partners who became eager early adopters and supported the event, which made it financially viable. Then came the final piece of the puzzle. The working name had been “Virginia Conference,” but the group recognized that it did not capture the essence of the vision. According to Kim, when Bonnie said, “What about the Virginia Leadership Retreat?” they were off to the races. The event was so successful that it outgrew the venue after the first year. We’ve been at The Homestead ever since.

Here we are in 2024, preparing for the 15th VLR! (If you are doing the math, yes, we missed one year for COVID). The industry has changed. The workplace has changed. Technology has changed. Laws have changed. Society has changed. All of it impacts us. Leaders must remain equipped to manage all these changes for themselves, their organizations, and their clients. The VLR Committee remains committed to helping our industry leaders thrive in the present, keep their eyes on the horizon, and guide their organizations and clients into the future. It’s not 2009 anymore, and 2029 will be here before you know it.

Our challenge is to build on the foundation laid by the VLR’s visionaries and translate it to meet current needs and ever evolving conditions. This requires us to maintain the balance of the four keys to success. Over the last two years, the Committee has focused on the broad input received from participants, modeling leadership in change management by trying new things and balancing the needs and wants of all participants. Our goal is to create a platform that will allow you to “experience the VLR your way,” taking full advantage of everything the event offers in the way that works best for you.

Last year’s keynote and breakout sessions knocked it out of the park and drew rave reviews. Personally, I am STILL working through my notes of all the valuable takeaways we got from keynote speaker Terry Watson and our presenters! This year, we are excited that Dennis McIntee, founder of the Leadership Development Group and author of The 8 Qualities of Drama Free Teams, will deliver our keynote. Additionally, this year, our call for presentations was met with enthusiasm again, and several great proposals have

already been submitted. The deadline is April 15th, so if you have an advanced idea that would contribute to this year’s theme of “Bridging the Gap Between the Past, The Present, and the Future!” please consider submitting a proposal!

The Place For Leaders To Be

The VLR remains the place where management company executives, emerging leaders, experienced community association managers, and our esteemed business partners meet to share best practices and cutting-edge ideas to advance their professional development, hone their leadership abilities, create and deepen their professional relationships, and make a positive impact on the community association industry as a whole. Are you ready to go to the next level? If so, we hope to see you at The Homestead in July!

Written

by: Tom Willis, PCAM Association Bridge tom@associationbridge.com

VLR has expanded to include the Chesapeake Region Chapter! Click here for more information and to register!

the industry leader

Low-Impact Landscaping: 3 Perspectives

We ask our urban and suburban landscapes to do a lot of work. With so much land taken up by buildings and roads, our little patches of green have the opportunity to soak up more rainwater and provide even richer habitat value. Trading unused lawn space for native plants can create a more absorbent, native ecosystem oasis known as low-impact landscaping. Community associations can work closely with their partners in the landscaping, conservation, and legal professions to help any low-impact landscape project look beautiful, maximize environmental benefits, comply with current law while avoiding adverse effects for neighboring properties or for the association at large.

As with so many home projects, consulting with these expert partners early in the process can help ensure maximum value and benefits for the homeowner–and the environment–while balancing the aesthetic guidelines and permissions of the association. Better understanding the implications of both association rules and local laws can ensure you navigate the environmentally-friendly terrain with ease.

What Do Our Laws Say?

In 2021, Maryland became the first state in our service area to have a law specifically addressing low-impact landscaping in community associations - via HB 322), whereas other neighboring states such as Virginia and Delaware do not have such provisions.

In Maryland, the law is codified in Real Property, Section 2-125 of the Maryland Code. Per the statute, “low-impact landscaping” refers to bio-habitat gardens designed to attract wildlife, pollinator gardens, rain gardens, and xeriscaping that reduces or eliminates the need for supplemental water from irrigation. “Unreasonable limitations” on low-impact landscaping are prohibited, such as a restriction that significantly increases the cost, decreases the efficiency, or mandates turf grass for the low-impact landscaping. The law does allow community associations to adopt “reasonable” design and aesthetic guidelines regarding the type, number, and location of low-impact landscaping features.

In practice, the Maryland law limits the ability of community associations to apply and enforce certain covenants that unreasonably restrict the ability of the homeowner to install and maintain low-impact landscaping in a homeowner’s yard or area of exclusive use. Examples of restrictive covenants typically found in governing documents that could be deemed “unreasonable” under the low-impact landscaping law are restrictions on the height and appearance of lawn vegetation, provisions requiring manicured turf, mandates on the use of fertilizer and pesticides, and limits on the species of trees and shrubs that can be planted, such as not allowing for native trees. That said, associations do not have to allow for landscaping that is diseased, attracts unreasonable levels of vermin, or permit landscaping that adversely affects neighboring properties such as encroachments or causing water runoff to be redirected into another owner’s property or common area.

Boards and managers should work closely with their association’s legal counsel in reviewing existing covenants and rules that may run afoul of any state laws -

Eastern Redbud

such as the new Maryland law) and in preparing reasonable design and aesthetic guidelines clarifying the type, number, and location of low-impact landscaping features that homeowners may install on their properties.

What Are the Benefits of Low-Impact Landscaping?

Low-impact landscaping techniques can help heal our natural world in two primary ways: by reconnecting us to nature and by absorbing more rain to minimize erosion of and pollution in our streams and the Chesapeake Bay. Shifting mindsets about how our landscapes function ecologically can open new worlds – from supporting the metamorphosis of a caterpillar into a butterfly to reducing localized flooding.

Native plants are key components of low-impact landscaping. They have evolved over millions of years to work in harmony with the native birds, butterflies, and bees around us. They’re hearty too. Native plants are adapted to our region’s climate and soil conditions, put down deeper and stronger roots than lawn grass and non-native plants, and, once established, require far less water. And they’re beautiful.

Improving the hydrology of a site is another key component of low-impact landscaping. A landscaper with a keen eye for the drainage patterns on your property will be able to suggest where to install features, such as rain gardens, to capture and keep water on your property. This allows water to slowly absorb back into the ground instead of running off onto, and often harming, neighboring properties. Installing native plants that tolerate moist soils and swampy conditions helps soak up water too. These features mitigate drainage issues without dramatic and expensive topography changes or earthwork.

No landscaping is maintenance-free – commonplace landscaping practices apply here too, such as pruning and appropriate mulching. However, low-impact landscaping requires less maintenance than traditional landscaping, particularly in reducing or eliminating the need for fertilizers, pesticides, and frequent watering. And, as with any landscaping, it can be a nice complement to turf lawn space –they are not mutually exclusive.

Who Can Help Create Effective Low-Impact Landscapes?

Associations and homeowners interested in low-impact landscaping can work closely with a professional landscaper to develop a low-impact design that maximizes the “pros” in a space and eliminates or mitigates the “cons.” For example, built environments can be improved by replacing an impermeable concrete patio with a semipermeable crushed stone space. Or perhaps an unwanted view can be screened with lush native shrubs providing privacy with more ecological benefit.

A professional landscaper can help a homeowner identify the native, non-native and invasive plants on their property, and can make informed recommendations on improvements. Not all native plants are perfect for every low-impact landscape, and not all non-native plants are invasive or need to be removed. A reputable landscaper will strike the right balance and consider plant selection early in the process. They can also select native additions to the landscape that provide year-round beauty and do not become unwieldy or overgrown–keeping the homeowner and the association happy.

Easier-to-maintain gardens are often those with native shrubs, trees, or wellbehaved perennial flowers and grasses. “Right place, right plant” is a key concept: -

Semi-Pervious Patio

Lawn Replacement New Jersey Tea

think about if you have sun or shade, and if your area is wet or dry. These site conditions can impact how well a plant does in that area – some will be better adapted than others to certain conditions.

Native Plants in Delaware, Maryland, and Virginia include:

SHRUBS:

• Inkberry Holly - glossy evergreen with small white flowers and black berries

• New Jersey Tea - deciduous shrub with bright summer blooms

• Virgina Sweetspire - small shrub with pendulous fragrant flowers

• Winterberry Holly - upright multi-stem shrub with brilliant red berries in winter

TREES:

• White Oak - large, robust shade tree providing excellent wildlife habitat

• Eastern Redbud - medium ornamental with showy pink/purple spring flowers

• Serviceberry - small ornamental ideal for home gardens, with great fall color

PERENNIALS OR GRASSES:

• Purple Love Grass - very short grass with airy clouds of purple seed head

• Switchgrass - large grass with many native cultivars, ideal for erosion control.

• Golden Ragwort - spreading groundcover with yellow blooms,

• Black-Eyed Susan - tall sun-loving perennial with distinctive yellow flowers

• White Wood Aster - medium, arching perennial with small blueish-white flowers

When designed and installed properly with professional input from landscapers and/or conservationists, a low-impact landscape will respect the existing drainage patterns of the site, maximize the use of native plants, minimize or eliminate the need for fertilizers and pesticides, reduce or eliminate impermeable surfaces, and provide an enjoyable outdoor space for both wildlife and people. This can all be achieved while balancing homeowner and community association priorities.

Useful Resources:

Plant NOVA Natives: https://www.plantnovanatives.org/

University of Maryland Cooperative Extension recommended native plants: https:// extension.umd.edu/resources/#!/category/3/subcategory/866

University of Delaware Cooperative Extension recommended native plants: https://www. udel.edu/academics/colleges/canr/cooperative-extension/fact-sheets/native-plants-fordelaware-landscapes/

Chesapeake Bay Foundation: https://www.cbf.org/join-us/more-things-you-can-do/in-youryard/index.html

Written by:

Leslie Brown, Esq. Rees Broome, PC, lbrown@reesbroome.com

Renee Grebe, Northern Virginia Conservation Advocate, Nature Forward, renee.grebe@natureforward.org

Jedd Narsavage, GreenSweep LLC, jedd@greensweepllc.com

Panicum Heavy Metal

Black Eyed Susan

Inkberry Holly

PLATINUMSHOWCASESPONSOR

Natural Waste Removal in a Homeowners Association

I am a Community Manager with The Woods Homeowners Association (WHOA), a large HOA in the eastern panhandle of West Virginia. Like many other homeowner associations, a standard component of our governing documents is the requirement for the property owners to maintain their property to preserve aesthetic appeal, thereby preserving property values. This includes routine maintenance of all structures and landscapes. Part of this routine maintenance is the cleaning up of natural materials such as disposal of leaves, trimming of bushes and shrubs, pruning of trees, and removal of downed trees and limbs. While this is the responsibility of the property owners, there are several ways the HOA can assist property owners with these types of projects.

Here in my community, we have developed a number of programs to aid homeowners in maintaining their property. Initially the program centered on education and resource information. WHOA developed a list of local resources such as recycling centers, landscaping contractors, arborists, etc., which is published in the homeowners directory and on the WHOA website.

The next logical step was to seek resources outside of the community that might provide additional educational information or guidance. Through this search the community became aware of the nationally recognized Firewise Program which “provides a framework to help neighbors get organized, find direction, and take action“ to reduce the risk of wildfire to their homes and community through lot maintenance. Included in this program is guidance on removal of fire fuels such as leaves, branches, dead and fallen trees. Due to the heavily wooded nature of WHOA, mitigating wildfire is crucial to the safety and welfare of those in the community.

With the addition of the Firewise program, the initiative expanded to include ways the HOA could assist homeowners in meeting governing document requirements as well as qualifying for and maintaining the status of a Firewise Community. One such initiative included hosting an annual wood Chipping Day. This program offered two different choices. One in which the wood chippings were removed from the property and one in which the wood chippings were left onsite to be used in flower beds and pathways or to naturally decompose. The process was simple. The property owner would sign up to participate in the program and the HOA would oversee the hiring of a professional tree service to provide the workforce and equipment to chip the wood, schedule chipping dates and times, develop the location map for participating properties, and collect the associated fees. The property owners gathered tree limbs, branches, and small logs and stacked them along the road to be chipped by the contracted tree company. Since this was an organized community-wide program, the price to each property owner was discounted.

As the needs of the community changed, the Chipping Day program couldn’t keep up with the need for year-round yard cleanup. Many options were explored including quarterly Chipping Days, volunteer programs, contracted landscape services, and yard waste dumpster service. Ultimately the Board

decided on a dedicated yard waste removal program. This service included the installation of an onsite yard waste dumpster that is filled by the property owners with all types of natural waste from grass and shrub clippings to branches and logs. Once filled, the dumpster is removed and taken to a processing location where the materials are shredded and turned into mulch or composted and turned into usable garden soil. Waste Management and many other large waste management and environmental service companies offer this program. There are many advantages to year-round yard waste removal, one of which is the removal of unsightly flammable materials from the community. By removing downed trees, branches, and leaves, property owners help mitigate the risk of wildfire and decrease the likelihood of a house fire spreading to adjoining properties. Additionally, the removal of organic materials from landfills is beneficial to the environment. Instead of putting useful wood, tree trimmings, and clippings in the landfill, those materials are turned into a useful environmentally friendly end product in the form of mulch and enriched gardening soil. The program saves money that would be spent on regular trash service by lessening the tonnage weight in the community dumpsters.

There are many resources for those who wish to start a natural waste removal program in their community. Locally you can contact your local solid waste authority or your trash removal services. Nationally you can contact Firewise USA at https://www. nfpa.org/education-and-research/ wildfire/firewise-usa/become-afirewise-usa-site.

Written by: Dawn Lewis, CMCA, AMS Community Manager, WHOA

Property Management People, Inc. dawn.lewis@pmpbiz.com

SavetheDate

PREVENT ALGAE in Your Community Ponds This Growing Season

Ponds are a popular feature in many communities. From fishing and kayaking to bird watching and picnicking, ponds are a gathering place for community members, as well as vital infrastructure for stormwater collection. Community managers and board members work hard to keep their ponds beautiful; however, as with any body of water, they are susceptible to algae growth, which can quickly turn a beautiful pond into a green, smelly eyesore.

Not only does pond algae detract from aesthetic appeal and frustrate residents, but it can also negatively impact home values and the overall perception of community leaders. And if the problem goes unaddressed for too long, it can cripple the functionality of a stormwater retention pond, leading to muck development and flooding. Once reaching this point, the only way to reverse the problem is through costly dredging.

Before you can understand how to control and prevent algae growth, it’s important to be aware of what you’re dealing with. Algae fall into three primary categories –filamentous, planktonic, and macro-algae:

FILAMENTOUS ALGAE

Filamentous algae typically appear as stringy, slimy green or yellow patches. Small stormwater ponds and the shoreline areas around larger lakes can be overwhelmed with filamentous algae due to stagnation and elevated nutrient levels.

PLANKTONIC ALGAE

Planktonic algae are microscopic organisms that can appear in many colors such as green, blue, golden, and red. They may also resemble dye, oil, or spilled paint in the water. And some species like cyanobacteria (blue-green algae) are capable of producing dangerous toxins that are harmful to humans and pets.

MACRO-ALGAE

Macro-algae are multicellular and often found in marine ecosystems. Many are considered invasive and are sometimes mistaken for weeds due to their more vegetal appearance, but they do not have true root systems.

Do algae have any redeeming qualities? Absolutely! In a balanced food web, they serve as food and refuge for desirable fish, insects, birds, and other wildlife. However, if they become a nuisance, it’s crucial to return them to acceptable thresholds.

If you’re already faced with a severe algae problem or your community desires urgent algae removal, licensed professionals may turn to EPA-registered algaecides. These products have been specifically developed to only eliminate undesirable growth without affecting beneficial species. Advanced drones with GPS navigation features are making applications more precise and efficient – and less intrusive – in residential areas.

Though algaecide applications are highly effective, they are not considered a long-term solution. Once algae have become established in a waterbody, they can be difficult to control. Some species reproduce through fragmentation, meaning even small pieces can develop new infestations. Others reproduce via cell division or spores. The resilient nature of algae can be costly and time-consuming to overcome; that’s why the best solution is prevention.

Many proactive tools and technologies are available to help prevent algae growth in community ponds:

Water quality testing

Algae are merely a symptom of poor water quality. Water quality imbalances can often be detected before algae become visible. Through recurring water quality testing, Aquatic Experts can track a variety of important water quality parameters in a professional laboratory. This data

makes it easier to identify negative trends and implement solutions to restore balance to the ecosystem.

Nutrient management

Bottom muck and debris contain high concentrations of the nutrients that algae need to grow. Eco-friendly nutrient remediation products can be applied to permanently “lock up” excess nutrients, converting them to forms that do not sustain algae. Beneficial bacteria (think probiotics) may also be applied to aid in the natural decomposition of nutrient-rich muck and debris.

Fountains and aeration

Algae tend to thrive in imbalanced water quality conditions. Fountains, surface aerators, and submersed aerators can help disrupt areas of stagnation and introduce dissolved oxygen into the water, which helps improve water quality and makes the decomposition of nutrient-rich muck and debris more efficient.

Shoreline management

Shoreline erosion can have detrimental effects on water quality. As shorelines deteriorate due to wind, rain, and activity around the water, the eroded sediment brings with it excess nutrients and can build up over time, reducing the overall holding capacity of the pond. Establishing a dense buffer of beneficial vegetation can help filter nutrients from stormwater runoff as it flows into the waterbody. The complex root systems that develop will also help contain soil. For more severe erosion problems, professionals may recommend bioengineering techniques that physically anchor the shoreline in place.

Community education

Educating residents and employees can also help prevent nutrient accumulation in community ponds:

• Speak with lawn maintenance professionals about strategies to reduce or end the use of fertilizers

• Bag yard debris and grass clippings

• Limit mowing around the perimeter of the water

• Properly dispose of trash and pet waste

• Avoid feeding fish and waterfowl – organic materials will release nutrients into the water as they break down

• Use biodegradable detergents and cleaners when washing vehicles and pressure-washing houses

Each of these strategies may be used independently to support healthy water quality conditions, but in combination, they can help completely transform a waterbody. Through a customized annual management program, communities can access these solutions, as well as ongoing support and monitoring by Aquatic Experts. When partnering with a provider that’s experienced in preventative management, community managers and board members can avoid the headaches and complaints that always follow the emergence of algae, and direct their focus to other important needs in their association.

Learn more about this topic at www.solitudelakemanagement.com/knowledge.

Written by: Brendon Donnelly

Lake and Pond Management

Consultant

GA, AL, MS, North FL bdonnelly@solitudelake.com

Eastern Shore Golf Outing

We had a great Delmarva Golf Outing at Glen Riddle Golf Course on Monday, May 6th!

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

Belfor Property Restoration

BrightView Landscape Services

Kris Konstruction Roofing Professionals

Mann Properties

NFP Insurance

Sposato Landscape

Standard Paving & Concrete

The Witmer Group WHITEFORD

Congratulations to our Delmarva Golf Outing Winners!

First Place:

Standard Paving & Concrete - Jack Rogers, Matt Rogers, Joe Cox, Matt Baldwin

Second Place:

Belfor Property Restoration - Todd Stiegler, Jim Covey, Ed Asher, Tim Hensley

Third Place:

Atlantic Maintenance Group – Gary Saylor, Don Gentry, Kate Cornell, Ashley Zayas

Ladies Longest Drive – Kate Cornell

Men’s Longest Drive – Mike Cropper

Men’s Closest to the Pin – Ed Asher

Condo & Community Association Insurance Specialists

Wednesday, March 20th

“Keys to Strategic Planning Success”

We had a great day at our first in-person Breakfast Seminar of the Year!

Many thanks to our Speaker, Cate Fulkerson, CMCA, EBP, Principal of Points North Strategies LLC

Thank you to our Sponsors!

Atlantic Maintenance Group

Becht Engineering BT BECS

BrightView

Community Association Underwriters of America

Connie Phillips Insurance

Construction Systems Group

Environmental Solutions, Inc.

First Citizens Bank

Hann & Hann Construction Services

Katchmark - A Tecta America Company

Knott Mechanical

MillerDodson Associates

Mr. Clean Power Washing

National Cooperative Bank

North Arundel Contracting

Pro Painting & Contracting

RestoreCore

RoofPro

SI Restoration

Structural Restoration Services

USI Insurance Services

Walker Consultants

Homeowner associations and community associations face an abundance of specialized legal challenges. Our experienced Community Associations attorneys have worked with hundreds of condominiums, homeowners associations, and housing cooperatives throughout the Mid-Atlantic region and have gained a deep under standing of the unique issues you deal with every day. Rely on us for comprehensive legal services, creative problem-solving, and a common-sense approach to keep your association running smoothly.

We had a great turnout at our 2024 Delmarva Roundtable Breakfast Seminar!

Friday, April 12, 2024 “Introduction to Legal Trends”

Thank you to our Sponsors!

Atlantic Maintenance Group

Becht Engineering BT

BrightView Landscape Services

Constructions Systems Group

CoreCom Commercial Painting

Criterium-Harbor Engineers

Deeley Insurance Group

Envirotech Environmental Consulting

F&S Power Washing

Hann & Hann Construction Services

Kris Konstruction Roofing Professionals

Mid-Atlantic Prowash

MillerDodson Associates, Inc.

NFP Insurance

Reserve Advisors

Residential Realty Group

The Witmer Group

Tidewater Property Management, Inc.

WHITEFORD

Many thanks to our Roundtable Speakers & Delmarva committee for putting this Seminar together!

JUNETEENTH

Juneteenth holds profound significance beyond its status as the newest Federal holiday. It commemorates the end of slavery in the United States and serves as a powerful reminder of the struggles endured by generations of enslaved individuals and their journey towards freedom. Despite this great importance, Juneteeth remains mostly unknown and misunderstood to many people. Let’s explore the history and significance of the newest American holiday.

President Lincoln’s Emancipation Proclamation of January 1,1863 marked the most crucial step towards the abolition and eradication of slavery in America. However, it wasn’t until June 19, 1865, over two years later, that Union troops arrived in Galveston, Texas, to announce the Emancipation Proclamation to local residents. This finally ended slavery in the last part of the former Confederacy yet to receive the news of the Proclamation. The message read, “The people of Texas are informed that in accordance with a Proclamation from the Executive of the United States, all slaves are free. This involves an absolute equality of rights and rights of property between former masters and slaves, and the connection heretofore existing between them becomes that between employer and hired laborer.” Why it took more than two years for the news to reach Texas has been debated, though the poor communication infrastructure throughout the South combined with pockets of stubborn Confederate resistance surely played a part What we do know is that this news brought about a chance for the last remaining slaves in the South to finally reunite with families and start their lives as free men and women. Regardless of how long it took for word of the Emancipation Proclamation to reach Galveston, the profound impact it had on the lives of the enslaved individuals who received the news is undeniable. At last, they were free.

The establishment of the Freedmen’s Bureau in March 1865 further supported the transition from slavery to freedom by providing essential resources such as food, clothing, medical care, legal representation, and education. It facilitated the legalization of marriages and assisted African American soldiers and sailors in securing their rights and benefits. Early Juneteenth celebrations date back to 1866, initially involving church gatherings in Texas. They spread across the South and gradually became more common in AfricanAmerican communities throughout the country.

Today Juneteenth is not merely a day of celebration but also one of education, reflection, and remembrance. It honors the resilience and perseverance of African Americans throughout history and highlights the ongoing struggle for equality and justice. The holiday has been called “America’s second Independence Day.” Juneteenth falls on June 19 and is traditionally celebrated on the third Saturday in June. It is not just an African American holiday - it is a day to be revered by all Americans. Today, Juneteenth celebrations are stronger than ever, with communities across the country organizing activities to commemorate African American freedom and promote cultural awareness.

The journey to make Juneteenth a national holiday was championed by individuals like Opal Lee and Reverend Ronald Myers Sr., who tirelessly advocated for its recognition. Opal Lee’s symbolic walks, representing the two and a half years of slavery that persisted after the Emancipation Proclamation, garnered widespread support and helped elevate Juneteenth’s visibility. In light of heightened racial tensions, the momentum and collective desire for recognizing Juneteenth as a national holiday grew stronger in recent years. This effort was strongly supported by social justice organizations, such as the Black Lives Matter movement.

Finally, in 2021, Juneteenth was officially designated as a federal holiday, marking a historic milestone in acknowledging African American history and heritage. Its recognition on a national level underscores the importance of commemorating the struggles and achievements of African Americans and reaffirms the commitment to building a more inclusive and equitable society for all. Juneteenth serves as a reminder of the ongoing journey towards freedom, justice, and equality and the collective responsibility to uphold these principles for future generations.

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

CHESAPEAKE REGION CHAPTER OF CAI 2024 EVENTS

JANUARY

Thursday 11th

Charting Your Course – Virtual

Tuesday 30th

Homeowner Webinar“Working Together as a Board”

FEBRUARY

Wednesday 21st

Breakfast Webinar – “Governance”

Tuesday 27th & Wednesday 28th

Board Leadership Development Workshop

MARCH

Wednesday 20th Breakfast Seminar

Ten Oaks Ballroom, Clarksville, MD

APRIL

Friday 12th

Delmarva Breakfast Seminar, Legal Roundtable Atlantic Sands, Rehoboth, DE

MAY

Monday 6th

Delmarva Golf

Glen Riddle Golf Club, Berlin, MD

Wednesday 8th – Saturday 11th CAI National Conference Las Vegas, NV Wednesday 22nd

Seminar

Oaks Ballroom, Clarksville, MD JUNE Monday 24th Golf Outing Norbeck Country Club, Rockville, MD

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