Winter/Spring 2025

THE Winter/Spring 2025

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THE BEACON

In this Issue

EXECUTIVE BOARD President

Presidents Message . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-5 Chapter Mission and Vision . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 Welcome New Members . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-7 We Want to Hear from You . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 Congratulations 2025 Board of Directors . . . . . . . . . . . 8 Maryland and Delaware Hidden Treasures . . . . . . . . .9-10 PMDP . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 Sponsors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 Jump-Start Your Landscape . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12-13 MACo . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 Beacon Advertising . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 EJF Real Estate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 DEI Article . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16-17 Cardinal Management Group . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 Community Association of the Year Award . . . . . . . . . . 18 Tidewater Property Management . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 How to Prepare for the Condo/HOA Insurance Market . 20 March 19th Breakfast Series . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21 Pop Tab Challenge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .22 April 11th Breakfast Series . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .23 Turning Your Biggest Headache into your Biggesst Asset . . . 24-25 Marylands Building Energy Performace Standards . . . . . 26 Deeley Insurance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .26 Kris Konstruction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .27 Getting Ready for Spring . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28-29 The Falcon Group . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30 The Discretionary Nature of Reserve Studies . . . . . . 31-32 D.H. Bader Management . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .32 Delmarva Golf Outing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .33 Congratulations - Professional Credential Recipients . 34-35 Chesapeake Region Chapter’s Annual Golf Outing . . . . .36 Palmer Brothers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .37 Save the Date - Annual Symposium . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38 Doody Calls . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .39 2025 Events . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40

President-Elect Vice-President Secretary Treasurer

DIRECTORS

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: contact@caimdches.org • Membership: 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.

Gary Saylor Atlantic Maintenance Group

Cynthia McKoin Potomac Ridge Condominium, Inc.

Jennifer Melson, CMCA, AMS Premier Community Association Management Michelle Jones, CMCA, AMS, PCAM, LSM Lake Linganore Association

James Anderson, PE, Becht Engineering BT

Rebecca Clemson-Petrik, CMCA, AMS, PCAM, FirstService Residential Hillary Collins, Esq., Rees Broome, PC

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

COMMITTEE CHAIRS & VICE CHAIRS Communications

Delmarva

Education

EXPO

Golf

Legislative

Chesapeake Region Chapter of CAI

Noni Roan, CMCA Pinnacle Financial Partners

Magazine

Membership Engagement

Social

Adam Smith, Chair Level Green Landscaping

Vince Scarfo, CMCA, Vice-Chair Clear: Restoration and PreDisaster Consulting Lisa Meck, CMCA, AMS, PCAM, Chair Carl M. Freeman Companies

Stephan Kaganzev, CMCA, AMS, PCAM, Vice-Chair FirstService Residential Staci M. Gelfound, CMCA, AMS, PCAM, Chair WPM Real Estate Management, AAMC Beth Brittingham, PCAM, Vice-Chair Alliance Association Bank Ellen Throop, Esq., Chair Davis, Agnor, Rapaport & Skalny, LLC

Dani Bressler, CAS, EBP, Vice-Chair Toepfer Construction Co., Inc.

Chase Hudson, CIRMS, CISR, EBP, Chair Sahouri Insurance T.J. Socks, Vice-Chair Becht Engineering BT

Karen Fooks, CMCA, AMS, PCAM, Chair Community Management Corporation/Associa Renee Dubois, Vice-Chair Village of River Hill

Jedd Narsavage, LEED AP, Chair GreenSweep, LLC

Dawn Lewis, CMCA, AMS, Vice-Chair Property Management People, Inc. Beth Bencivenni, Chair RestoreCore

Don Plank, PCAM, Vice-Chair Pinnacle Financial Partners Eddie Ramos, Chair Atlantic Maintenance Group

Ashley Zayas, CMCA, AMS, Vice-Chair Tidewater Property Management

PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE

Together, let us work towards making this Chapter thrive.

As I prepared to be the 2025 Chapter president, I considered what I wanted for the Chesapeake Chapter.

After realizing it’s not just about me, I assembled a team of business partners and managers and conducted an information road show. We visited management companies to ask staff open-ended questions about CAI and the Chesapeake Chapter. We inquired about their attendance at education and networking events and what the Chapter could offer them. The constructive feedback highlighted that we could do more for our members, and that improving the Chapter requires effort from ALL members.

But let me start at the beginning, my beginning.

As a community manager, I often faced disrespect and confusion about my role. Homeowners viewed community associations and managers as regulators of their “own” homes. When I sent violation letters for not following Covenants or Bylaws, I was called nasty names and sometimes threatened. This made me wonder if homeowners truly understood what living in a community association meant and the manager’s responsibilities were.

Surely, they read the resale package and memorized the covenants and bylaws, right? I would have. Ha. Not a

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chance. I currently live in a community with no association.

Yes, I can paint my door orange with yellow and pink stripes, make my front yard a huge vegetable garden, and run my dump truck at 5am daily, but would you want to live next door to me? Probably not.

As a community manager, I recognized the importance of continuous education to maintain professional expertise.

While learning through trial and error is possible, there is a vast reservoir of knowledge available from seasoned professionals. Community managers must be versatile, possessing a broad understanding of fields such as engineering, landscaping, communication, and law. Retaining skilled managers remains a significant challenge for management companies due to the limited pool of qualified individuals. The extensive demands of writing RFPs, meeting with contractors, attending board meetings, and managing communications leave minimal time for further education.

Upon transitioning to community association banking, I observed that many of my business partners, although skilled in their trades, lacked a comprehensive understanding of community associations and boards.

Education is unquestionably essential. Business partners

THE BEACON

need to understand their clients and how they function.

Board members need to be fully aware of their duties and what they can reasonably expect from their management company and manager. Homeowners should understand the intricacies of living in a community association, including covenants, bylaws, and local laws. Did you know that if your neighbor’s tree fell into your yard, it was your responsibility? I didn’t until that happened to me. Fortunately, we have a wonderful resource through our local CAI Chapter which provides virtual board member development classes, homeowner webinars, informative articles in the digital ‘Beacon’ magazine, and educational seminars, all of which are available at no cost or at a reasonable cost.

The Chapter’s mission is to support and enable our members’ success and to create conditions favorable to the well-being of community associations and the advancement of community association governance,

Credentialing has transformed community management into a recognized profession. Experience combined with mandated courses equips managers with crucial knowledge. Continuing education allows managers to deepen their understanding of important subjects such as budgets, finance, insurance, and industry trends.

Furthermore, CAI has introduced the Educated Business Partner designation, enabling business partners to gain insights into community association operations and board responsibilities.

management, and living in the

Despite the importance of education, homeowners often do not join CAI or participate in educational events. Managers, already stretched thin, find it challenging to allocate time for classes and certification exams. It is important to remember that this involves your home and your career, and learning from experts is invaluable and actually, pretty interesting.

The Chesapeake Chapter is a vibrant

During my presidency, I will keep you informed about Board actions addressing your suggestions for CAI. But I need your help. Your engagement is crucial. Attend networking events, introduce yourself to new people, ask them questions and learn something new, and join a committee. Together, let us work towards making this Chapter thrive.

Chesapeake Region.

and most respected source of knowledge, resources and education for professionals who work with homeowners living in Community Associations throughout the Chesapeake Region.

I can’t wait to see what we can accomplish together!

Noni Roan Chesapeake Region Chapter President Financial Advisor, SVP, Pinnacle Financial Partners

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Welcome new members

Mr. Stephen Agetstein 130 Slade Avenue Condominium Association, Inc.

Mr. Isaac Camacho Wallrug DBA hoacta.app

Mr. Jim Gottschalk Deer Harbour Improvement Association

Ms. Judith Alexander Andover Condominium Association, Inc.

Mr. Tim Carrico Leisure World Community Corporation

Ms. Joan Gregorek Hines Estates HOA

Mr. Dan Anderson Canal Corkran Homeowners Association

Mr. Alfredo Casta Windward Key Homes Corporation

Dana Hall The Mallard Lake Community Association Inc

Ms. Susan Appling

Mr. Jeffrey Cheney CWR, Inc.

Mr. Laszlo Harshanyi Derwood Station Homeowners Association #2 Inc.

Mr. John Costello Captain’s Cove Golf & Yacht Club, Inc.

Mr. Tim Hearn Captain’s Cove Golf & Yacht Club, Inc.

Christopher Couzens

Ms. Patricia Hempstead Leisure World Community Corporation

Mr. John Athas Symphony Village Homeowners Association Dr. Andro Barnett Potomac Ridge Condominium, Inc. Beth Barnett The Marina at Pepper’s Creek Ms. Diane Baumann Derwood Station Homeowners Association #2 Inc.

Mr. Ron Dixon Woodview Village West Community Association

Dr. Tyler Beck Derwood Station Homeowners Association #2 Inc.

Mr. Lawrence Dobres The Village of Timbergrove HOA

Mr. Timothy Bender Avenel Community Association INC

Ms. Deborah Dopkin English Towers Condominium Association

Ms. Sharon Blatt 130 Slade Avenue Condominium Association, Inc.

Ms. Patricia Dunn Spring Meadows Condominiums

Mr. Chester Boggs Academic Partnerships, LLC

Mr. Stephen Durst Hunters Run Community Association, Inc

Ms. Desmine Boyce Metropolis Condominium Management

Ms. Carol Edwards Leisure World Community Corporation

Mr. Marc Boyd Hunters Run Community Association, Inc

Mr. Dennis Epps Park Place at Esplanade HOA

Mr. Alexy Braznikov Derwood Station Homeowners Association #2 Inc.

Ms. Kim Eraso Hunters Run Community Association, Inc

Kitty Bridges The Residences at the Colonnade

Ms. Theresa Espy Derwood Station Homeowners Association #2 Inc.

Mr. Robert Brown English Run Homeowners Association

Tosin Fashanu Woodview Village West Community Association

Ms. Sandra Brownfield 130 Slade Avenue Condominium Association, Inc.

Teresa Fields

Ms. Sandra Burch Esplanade at Red Run Neighborhood Association Ms. Sandra Burch Park Place at Esplanade HOA Raymond Burke Gordon Feinblatt LLC Ms. Vicki Caine The Towers Condominium, Inc. 6

Mr. Kenneth Deutsch Windward Key Homes Corporation

Mr. Ernest Flowers 130 Slade Avenue Condominium Association, Inc. Edward Fratantuono

Mr. Jim Frost The Residences at the Colonnade Ms. Barbara Geiser English Towers Condominium Association Mr. Barry Goldschmidt The Village of Timbergrove HOA

Ms. Helen Hines The Village of Timbergrove HOA Mr. Roger Holland Captain’s Cove Golf & Yacht Club, Inc. Ms. Michelle Hudgens Woodview Village West Community Association Mr. Marcella Jones Esplanade at Red Run Neighborhood Association Ms. Mary Jones Greenhaven Condominium Association Ms. Paula Junghans The Residences at the Colonnade Mr. Barry Kane The Village of Timbergrove HOA Thomas Keaets THE HOA MANAGERS LLC Ms. Mary Jo Keefe Volpicelli Symphony Village Homeowners Association Mr. Bill Kendall Hunters Run Community Association, Inc Mr. Brian Knauer First National Bank of PA Ms. Kim Kries Cedar Oaks Homeowners Association, Inc. Brian Kuhn

Mr. Corey Lepson

Ms. Candace Lewis Cardinal Management Group, LLC Ms. Sherri Little Lions Gate Townhouse Condominium Inc.

THE BEACON

Welcome new members

Mr. Paul Litvak Avenel Community Association INC

Mr. Robert Ossakow English Run Homeowners Association

Ms. Jennifer St. Clair Piney Orchard Community Association

Michael Locher On Target Remodeling

Mr. Gary Palmer Derwood Station Homeowners Association #2 Inc.

Ms. Alicianna Swett Hunters Run Community Association, Inc

Ms. Francine Lubera Council of Unit Owners of Silverbrook Wood Condominium, Inc.

Mrs. Aleia Pickett Crofton Mews Condominium No. 1, Inc.

Mr. Jordan Thomas Derwood Station Homeowners Association #2 Inc.

Miss Reid Raker English Run Homeowners Association

Ms. Leon Thompson Esplanade at Red Run Neighborhood Association

Moe Marien

Ms. Walda Reese Piney Orchard Community Association

Ms. Colette Trohan Leisure World Community Corporation

Ms. Gail Massey 130 Slade Avenue Condominium Association, Inc.

Ms. Danielle Richard Crofton Mews Condominium No. 1, Inc.

Ms. Kathy Viney Leisure World Community Corporation

Ms. Angela McCargo Esplanade at Red Run Neighborhood Association

Ms. Rhonda Richards English Run Homeowners Association

Mr. Bob Wajer Greenhaven Condominium Association

Ms. Roberta McCarten Crofton Mews Condominium No. 1, Inc.

Mr. Larry Robinson The Residences at the Colonnade

Ms. Carol Walker Andover Condominium Association, Inc.

Mr. David Mcdermott Greenhaven Condominium Association

Mr. Fred Sacks The Village of Timbergrove HOA

Ms. Karen Wallace 130 Slade Avenue Condominium Association, Inc.

Mr. Jim McMahan Hunters Run Community Association, Inc

Mr. Cliff Scott Avenel Community Association, Inc.

Ms. Gail Wallace Greenspring Quarry

Ms. Theresa Melson Windward Key Homes Corporation

Ms. Maureen Scott Avenel Community Association, Inc.

Ms. Leanda Welker Hunters Run Community Association, Inc

Ms. Michelle Merchant Woodview Village West Community Association

Mr. Wayne Scott Andover Condominium Association, Inc.

Mr. Peter Wenger Crofton Mews Condominium No. 1, Inc.

Ms. Diane Michaud 130 Slade Avenue Condominium Association, Inc.

Ms. Stephanie Scott Lions Gate Townhouse Condominium Inc.

Amber Whitley

Mr. Joseph Miller English Run Homeowners Association

Mr. Peter Scott Deer Harbour Improvement Association

Mr. Bruce Montogomery Windward Key Homes Corporation

Ms. Juanita Sealy-Williams Leisure World Community Corporation

Mr. Howard Moore Lions Gate Townhouse Condominium Inc.

Mr. David Shapiro Signature Club at Greenview

Jill Morrison Clagett Enterprises, Inc.

Kelvin Sherman Woodview Village West Community Association

Ms. Melanie Mullaney Property Management People, Inc.

Ms. Sandy Simms Salisbury’s Centennial Village Homeowner’s Association, Inc.

Mrs. Carol Maranto Greenhaven Condominium Association

Ms. Angela Muse Leisure World of Maryland Corporation Mr. John Newbery Cedar Oaks Homeowners Association, Inc. Ms. Michelle Nicholson Mr. Donald O’Grady The Southern Company

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Mr. Jeff Winfield Greenhaven Condominium Association Mr. Peter Winkel English Run Homeowners Association Ms. Janelle Wright Avenel Community Association INC Mr. Mike Yadach Sposato Landscape Company, Inc. Mr. Miguel Zuniga English Run Homeowners Association Greenspring East Condo

Ms. Theresa Smith Canary Creek Homeowner Association

Wyndham Commons Condominium Association

Mr. Victor Smith Windward Key Homes Corporation

Woodbrook On Charles

Mr. Zed Smith The Residences at the Colonnade

Annen Woods Maintenance

112 East West Condominium Timbergrove Condo Hotwire Communications 7

Congratulations to our Board of Directors for 2025!

Congratulations to our 2025 Chapter President!

Noni Roan, CMCA, Financial Advisor, SVP, Pinnacle Financial Partners

We would like to welcome and congratulate our new Board Members!

We Want to Hear From You! What have you gained through your membership in CAI? The Chesapeake Region Chapter loves our members, and we want to know!

CRCCAI launched “Testimonial Tuesdays”, giving our membership an opportunity to express how membership with CAI has influenced your career, education, board, or business.

Please send us your testimonial to be featured on our social media pages over the next coming months! Use the link below to submit your testimonial! www.surveymonkey.com/r/L2Z8W65

Michelle Jones, CMCA, AMS, PCAM, LSM, General Manager, Lake Linganore Association Jennifer Melson, CMCA, AMS, PCAM, Regional Manager, Premier Community Association Management

Thank you to our returning Board Members!

James Anderson, Chief Operating Officer, Becht Engineering BT Rebecca Clemson-Petrik, CMCA, AMS, PCAM, Regional Manager, FirstService Residential Hillary Collins, Esq., Shareholder, Rees Broome, PC Cindy McKoin, Homeowner Member, Potomac Ridge Condominium Inc. Gary Saylor, President, Atlantic Maintenance Group B.K. Swartwood, CMCA, AMS, PCAM, Homeowner Member, Montego Bay Civic Association

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8 THE BEACON

MARYLAND AND DELAWARE TREASURES BITE-SIZE RESTAURANT REVIEWS While we don’t pretend to be gastronomes extraordinaire here at The Beacon, we do appreciate a great place to grab a meal and a drink with friends and colleagues just as much as anyone does. No, we’re not transforming The Beacon into Food & Wine magazine, and no, we don’t claim to be arbiters of fine dining or influencers pushing the latest trendy and hip spots. But, we do know a few good places to grab a tasty meal, a cold beer and some friendly atmosphere. From the western mountains of Maryland, to the cobblestone streets of Fells Point in Baltimore, to the sandy shores of Bethany Beach in Delaware, here are three “Bite Size Restaurant Reviews” for a few hidden treasures of the culinary world right in our own backyards. Bon Appetit!

Firewater Kitchen & Bar: Deep Creek, Maryland

(Reviewed by Connie Phillips, Connie Phillips Insurance) Great food, creative cocktails, amazing scenery and warm ambiance are all on the menu at Firewater Kitchen & Bar on the shore of Deep Creek Lake. The family-owned restaurant’s location at the widest point of the lake provides exceptional views from the expansive outdoor decks and patios. Fireplaces keep you warm on crisp autumn nights, and breakaway windows let the balmy mountain breeze through in the summertime. Be sure to try their fresh craft cocktails and craft beers. Their food is amazing but don’t forget to make room for the roasted beet salad and French dip sandwiches. Stop by on Wednesdays for pasta nights! After your meal, gather around one of the outdoor firepits to unwind and take in the breathtaking views of the lake.

Photos from firewaterkitchen.com

If you’re heading to Deep Creek and are looking for a more casual setting—maybe someplace to take the kids—you can never go wrong with pizza. In Deep Creek you can get the unique experience of eating a whopping 26” pizza at Brenda’s New York Style Pizzeria. Widely considered the best pizza on the lake, bring a big group and make sure everyone is really hungry! www.brendaspizzeria.com/pizza

Kooper’s Tavern: Baltimore, Maryland

(Reviewed by Dani Bressler, Toepfer Construction Co., Inc.) Baltimore is home to many restaurants. Historic Fells Point is the perfect area to visit when you are craving a delicious meal in a quaint neighborhood. While looking for a location to visit with colleagues, I came across Kooper’s Tavern, and it didn’t disappoint.

Kooper’s Tavern is well known for its burgers, so that made the meal choice easy: burgers all around! I had a patty melt, a burger with onion and bacon jam on marble rye bread. It was fantastic; cooked to perfection and beyond delicious. I am lover of all things truffle-related, so I opted for truffle fries on the side. Again, wow!

These were the best truffle fries I’ve had, seasoned perfectly. One of my colleagues opted for a simple burger with wedge fries on the side. She couldn’t stop talking about how perfect everything was.

The atmosphere and service were as great as the food. During the holidays, at the time we visited, the neighborhood is beautifully decorated to celebrate the winter season. Upon entering the restaurant, I was immediately impressed by its quaint and cozy ambiance. As a pet lover, I was even more impressed by all the dog paintings on the walls. We were fortunate to sit directly across from a painting of Kooper himself! As for the service, our server was smiling the entire time, which made the experience even more enjoyable. Our food came out quickly and was cooked perfectly.

If you are looking for a delicious meal in a charming area of Baltimore, Kooper’s Tavern is the place to go! www.kooperstavern.com

(Photo by Dani Bressler) W INT E R/S P RING 20 2 5

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Fins Ale House & Raw Bar: Bethany Beach, Delaware

(Reviewed by Jedd Narsavage, GreenSweep LLC) If you take a trip to the beach and don’t eat some fantastic seafood, then did you really take a trip to the beach? The next time you’re soaking in the sunshine and enjoying the sound of the waves along the Delaware shore, stop by any one of the four Fins Ale House & Raw Bar locations to make sure your beach trip is complete. The Bethany Beach location is just south of “downtown” Bethany, directly across the road from Sea Colony.

Here you will find excellent seafood and cold beers in a casual, friendly, unpretentious setting.

Get started with fresh-shucked oysters, served ice cold and ready to slurp down. Fins routinely has at least three to four East Coast oyster varieties to choose from. Personally, I like a combo of the meaty Blue Point oysters from Connecticut and the silky smooth Beausoleil oysters from New Brunswick. If you want something local, Fins often has Chincoteague oysters on the menu, and they are fantastic. Oysters aren’t your thing?

No worries. The fried green tomatoes are excellent. Lightly breaded, crisp, and served with corn and a spicy chipotle mayo sauce. They taste like summer, no matter the month. If wings are what you’re craving, the Old Bay wings are the ideal mix of flavor and heat.

Moving to the main course, if it swims in the sea, Fins probably has it on the menu! Pasta with clams and mussels; glazed tender salmon; traditional shrimp and grits; crab cakes…you name it.

It is a pescatarian’s dream, but there are also plates for the landlovers. I’ve personally had the hand-made Angus cheeseburger and the Nashville Hot Chicken sandwich and neither of those will let you down. But if there is one dish that Fins does to perfection above all others, it is the Fish & Chips. The perfect meal for a beach dinner, it is so simple, yet so easy to get wrong.

Fins nails it. The flavorful cod is perfectly fried to a light golden brown. The crust stays on the fish when you cut into it, giving you the best of the warm breading and the meaty fish.

And the fries are no second fiddle here, they’re awesome too.

Excellent tartar sauce and fresh, zesty coleslaw round out the ideal beach meal.

Wash it all down with one of Fins’ exclusive Big Oyster Brewery microbrews. They usually have at least a dozen or so on tap, from IPAs to pilsners to ales to fruit-based beers. I’d recommend the Solar Power, the Mega Hazy or the Hammerhead, but really, there is no such thing as a bad beer when you’re at the beach.

(Photos from finsrawbar.com)

2025 Professional Management Development Program (PMDP) For more information and to visit the list of courses offered in 2025 visit here: www.caionline.org/LearningCenter/Educationfor-Managers/Pages/default.aspx

While the food and drinks are superb, the best part about Fins is that unlike many beach restaurants, it is open year-round. So, whether it is the heat of summer or the chill of winter, head to Fins for some of the best seafood and craft brews on the shore. www.finsrawbar.com

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THE BEACON

Many Thanks

TO OUR ANNUAL SPONSORS! S!

THE

2025 DIAMOND SPONSORS Atlantic Maintenance Group 2025

Becht Engineering BT, Inc. Hann & Hann Construction Services Kris Konstruction Roofing Professionals MillerDodson Associates, Inc. Minkoff Company

2025 PLATINUM SPONSORS Clear: Restoration and PreDisaster Consulting Community Association Underwriters of America

Nagle & Zaller, P.C. North Arundel Contracting, Inc. Pinnacle Financial Partners

Davis, Agnor, Rapaport & Skalny Duradek MidAtlantic EJF Real Estate Services

Prestige Tree Experts

Palmer Brothers Painting & General Contracting

Rees Broome, PC

SI Restoration

Sahouri Insurance

WHITEFORD

The Falcon Group Engineers, Architects & Reserve Specialists

2025

Tidewater Property Management, Inc., AAMC WPM Real Estate Management

2025 Gold Sponsors Condominium Venture, Inc. D.H. Bader Management, Inc. FirstService Residential Pacific Premier Bank Structural Restoration Services, Inc

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2025

11

JUMP-START YOUR LANDSCAPE WITH A SPRING CLEANUP Springtime is a period of growth and rebirth. The natural world comes out of a winter slumber, pushes aside the detritus and drabness of the colder months, and prepares to start a new year. Many communities will take advantage of the warmer weather and newfound energy to tackle spring cleaning projects, both inside and outside. One of the most important is to ensure the landscapes of a community get a comprehensive spring cleanup and fresh mulching. A spring cleanup does far more than just give the landscape an annual makeover, it also gives a healthy jump-start to the trees, shrubs and turf, setting them up for success the rest of the year. A thorough spring cleanup should consist of three tasks, each with aesthetic and health benefits for a community landscape:

Leaf & Debris Removal Leaves, limbs and other horticultural debris accumulate on turf and in landscape beds throughout the winter. Cleaning the community spaces of these items in the spring has an obvious positive aesthetic impact, but it also promotes healthy growth for turf and other plants as the weather warms. As turf comes out of dormancy, it craves sunlight to kick new growth into gear. When a lawn is covered with leftover leaves and debris, sunlight cannot reach the grass beneath. A clean lawn allows the turf to start soaking up sunlight as the days slowly get longer and soak up the early spring rains. Wet winter leaves are also a breeding ground for fungi, mildew, and mold. Piles of leaves and debris in window wells, outdoor stairwells, and within landscape beds can house snakes, rodents and troublesome insects.

Leaving wet winter leaves in your landscape beds is not a healthy alternative to fresh shredded hardwood mulch. If the leaves have not been properly dried and shredded, the large wet leaves can form heavy mats and prevent water and air 12

Cut Back Flowering Perennials In Spring

filtration to a plant’s roots. Additionally, some leaves such as oak leaves can negatively contribute to soil acidity and walnut leaves contain chemical compounds which harm many shrubs and perennials.

Get those ugly, swampy winter leftovers cleaned up and give your landscape some breathing room!

Shrub Pruning & Perennial Cutback Selective pruning and the cutback of perennial flowers and grasses in the spring is important to ensure year-round healthy growth and brilliant spring/summer blooms.

Reshaping shrubs, removing dead branches and stimulating new growth are just a few of the benefits of this essential spring task.

The late winter or early spring is an ideal time to take care of pruning; after the last hard frosts has passed, but before plants fully come out of dormancy. At that time, you have a clear sightline to the interior branches and your plants can grow into their new shape as warmer weather arrives.

Perennials bring beauty to the landscape throughout the spring and summer with colors and blooms that attract pollinators.

All they ask for in return is a little “haircut” in the spring! Cutting back perennials and ornamental grasses rids the plants of their old foliage and makes room for new growth and flowers. They should be cut back nearly all the way to the ground, leaving about a 1-2” stub. This does not harm the plant and in fact is essential to maintaining their healthy growth for the rest of the year. Some leafy perennials such as hostas, daylilies, salvia and catmint ideally should actually be cut back in the fall after the first couple of frost events.

The majority of flowering perennials provide food for birds throughout the cold winter. These plants, such as coneflowers, black-eyed susans, sunflowers and lavender, should be cut back just before new growth emerges in the spring.

Springtime Shrub Trimming and Shaping

Clear Landscape Beds of Leaves & Debris In Spring

Fresh Mulch THEEnsures BEACONPlants Retain Moisture & Nutrients

Fresh Mulch Application Some people love the smell of fresh mulch—others hate it. Whatever your opinion, the aroma of fresh shredded hardwood mulch is a surefire sign that spring is upon us.

A fresh layer of spring mulch in all planting beds and tree rings plays an important role in ensuring the long-term vitality of your landscape. Not only does fresh mulch look crisp and clean, improving a community’s appearance and curb appeal, but it serves many functions related to plant health. Mulch helps to conserve and maintain soil moisture, which is a huge benefit for plants. By mitigating erosion, it slows water runoff after rain events, leaving more water for the roots. In the cool days and nights of early spring, mulch provides insulation, promoting earlier root growth and earlier plant growth. Mulched tree rings and beds protect tree trunks and shrub branches from compacting foot traffic and damage from lawn equipment.

Natural shredded hardwood mulch also adds organic matter to the soil as it slowly biodegrades over the course of the year. This serves to improve the soil’s water holding

capacity, increases the number of microorganisms in the soil profile, and improves soil nutrient holding.

However, mulch should not be seen as a “silver bullet” for weed prevention. Mulch does have a positive impact on suppressing weeds and unwanted grass—especially when combined with a pre-emergent weed control in either pellet or liquid form. This will suppress weed or grass seeds that already exist in the soil or under the mulch.

But, the majority of weed seeds are wind-blown spores.

They will land and put down roots in even the smallest sliver of organic matter. Your mulch beds and rings should be routinely policed for weeds throughout the year to keep them clean.

A community should consult with their landscape maintenance partner to ensure their spring cleanup incorporates all of these important aspects. Just like how you eat a healthy breakfast and get dressed up for the day every morning, a comprehensive spring cleanup provides the same healthy jump-start to your landscape, and gets it looking great for the whole year ahead!

Shrub & Tree Pruning Basics Diseased, Damaged, and Dead Branches: Also known as the 3 D’s, all of these branches should be pruned away to remove the risk of any infections. Prune the D’s from all of your shrubs and trees, regardless of whether or not the branch still has foliage or blooms.

Crossing Branches: Any crossing branches will rub on each other in the wind, eventually wearing away bark and exposing your plant to pests. Remove them now to avoid future problems and retain a good shape.

Reducing & Reshaping: Reduce the size of shrubs or small trees that have grown too big, or are growing onto pathways or into structures. As a general rule, don’t remove more than 1/3 of the plant at one time.

Reshaping keeps shrubs, hedges, and small trees neat and organized.

Rejuvenation: Some shrubs or trees may have been neglected, become overgrown, and have many dead or tangled branches. Rejuvenate these plants by clearing away the dead branches, removing unproductive branches, and cutting back to encourage new growth.

Written by: Jedd Narsavage, LEED AP Director of Business Development, GreenSweep LLC jedd@greensweepllc.com

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Mulch Do’s & Don’ts DO: Apply mulch whenever completing new planting, and then annually as needed. Be sure to remove weeds prior to mulching and regularly during the season. By edging the area to be mulched, you can keep mulch where it is supposed to be and give your beds clean, professional lines. Mulch should be applied to a depth of two to four inches.

DON’T: Mulch that is less than two inches in depth does not serve the purpose of conserving moisture, reducing erosion, or providing any of the other benefits of mulch. Mulch should not be in contact with the trunk of the tree, and should never be piled up against the tree, as in the case of the often seen and much-hated mulch volcano. When mulch is piled against the stems of shrubs or the trunks of trees, it keeps this tissue too wet, and sets up an environment for insect and diseases to move into the stem or trunk of the covered plant.

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Maryland Association of Counties (MACo) Winter Conference On December 11th and 12th, 2024, representatives from the Legislative Committee of the Chesapeake Region Chapter of the Community Association Institute (CRCCAI) attended the Maryland Association of Counties (MACo) Winter Conference to network and share best practices with local elected officials and lawmakers. Thank you to all legislators who connected with us to learn more about educational opportunities and resources for homeowners living in common interest communities. We believe strongly that legislative collaboration can support your homeowner constituents throughout Maryland and Delaware counties. In the new year, we hope to be a resource, providing data, support and guidance, for legislators who are contemplating regulations that will affect communities in your jurisdiction. #caicrc #MACoCon #WeAreCAI Maryland Association of Counties (MACo) CRCCAI

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DEI Article Every March, we celebrate Women’s History Month to spotlight the achievements, innovations, and relentless spirit of women throughout the ages. While these contributions often go unnoticed, they have profoundly shaped our social, economic, and cultural landscapes.

This annual observance also serves as a crucial reminder that progress is ongoing, the fight for equality and justice continues, propelled by both renowned pioneers and countless unsung heroes.

Five Influential Women Who Shaped History 1. Marie Curie (1867–1934) As a groundbreaking physicist and chemist, Curie became the first woman to earn a Nobel Prize and the only person to win Nobel Prizes in two different scientific fields (Physics and Chemistry). Her research on radioactivity revolutionized medical diagnostics and treatment, laying the groundwork for modern cancer therapies.

2. Rosa Parks (1913–2005) Often called the “Mother of the Civil Rights Movement,” Parks sparked national change by refusing to surrender her bus seat to a white passenger in 1955.

Her defiance lit a fire under the civil rights movement, proving that one quiet act of bravery can galvanize millions in the pursuit of justice.

3. Ada Lovelace (1815–1852) Hailed as the first computer programmer, Lovelace collaborated with Charles Babbage on his Analytical Engine—an early prototype of today’s computers.

She envisioned how such a device could handle complex, non-numerical tasks, foreshadowing the vast possibilities of modern computing.

4. Dolores Huerta (b. 1930) A labor leader and civil rights activist, Huerta cofounded the National Farmworkers Association with César Chávez. She coined the rallying cry “Sí, se puede (yes, it can be done),” which continues to inspire social justice movements across the globe, underscoring her enduring impact on grassroots organizing.

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5. Ruth Bader Ginsburg (1933–2020) Appointed to the U.S. Supreme Court in 1993, Ginsburg championed women’s rights and gender equality. Her pioneering opinions and notable dissents expanded legal protections against discrimination, cementing her legacy as a legal icon and cultural trailblazer.

Collectively, these figures illustrate how vision, determination, and resilience can reshape the course of history. Their stories remind us that when barriers are dismantled and voices are amplified, whole societies move forward.

Key Rights Women Have Secured in the U.S. 1. Property Ownership (Mid-1800s) Significance: State-level Married Women’s Property Acts allowed married women to own and inherit property independently, rather than surrendering control to their husbands. This crucial milestone laid the foundation for women’s economic autonomy.

2. Right to Vote (1920) Significance: The Nineteenth Amendment prohibited states from denying citizens the right to vote based on sex. Women’s enfranchisement opened the door for fuller political participation and representation, forever altering American governance.

3. Workplace Equality (1964) Significance: Title VII of the Civil Rights Act outlawed employment discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, or national origin. Though inequalities remain, this law carved out vital protections for women striving for fair opportunities and wages.

4. Equal Pay (1963) Significance: The Equal Pay Act demanded equal compensation for the same work, establishing the legal framework for closing the wage gap. While many women still earn less than their male counterparts, the act remains a critical tool in the fight for pay equity.

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5. Credit Without Male Cosigner (1974) Significance: The Equal Credit Opportunity Act (ECOA) banned lenders from denying credit based on sex (among other categories). Women could finally secure mortgages, loans, and credit in their own names—an essential step toward true financial independence.

6. Educational Equity (1972) Significance: Title IX barred sex-based discrimination in federally funded education programs. The policy opened doors to college scholarships, expanded athletic opportunities, and increased academic representation for women and girls nationwide.

7. Reproductive Rights (1973) Significance: Roe v. Wade initially upheld a woman’s constitutional right to an abortion, reshaping discussions about bodily autonomy and healthcare access. Subsequent rulings have modified these protections at the state level, but the impact on women’s autonomy remains significant.

8. Further Workplace Protections (Late 20th Century – Present)

workplace safeguards, addressing issues like sexual harassment and parental leave. These measures continue to evolve, reflecting society’s ongoing efforts to accommodate the diverse needs of women in the workforce.

Why These Milestones Matter These rights are not isolated achievements; they form a cumulative framework that enriches every aspect of women’s social, economic, and political power. Each victory has paved the way for the next, ensuring that future generations inherit a more equitable foundation to build upon. Whether it’s owning property, earning equal pay, or shaping legislation from the halls of power, these hard-won rights reinforce the principle that true progress includes and benefits everyone.

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

Significance: Amendments to civil rights laws and the Family and Medical Leave Act (1993) extended

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How to Prepare for the Condo/HOA Insurance Market for 2025 and Beyond Insurance premiums are increasing, policies are being cancelled, or coverages are limited or reduced by the insurance carrier. It is a national problem, and everyone is struggling to keep insurance affordable.

Let’s take a look back at several factors that are driving the rate increases in condo and HOA premiums.

1. Reinsurance Market: Major changes in the reinsurance market have led to carriers having to limit the number of policies that they can write and the maximum property value they can offer.

2. Skyrocketing Reconstruction Costs: As reconstruction costs rise, so do the insurable values.

For example, $18M in property value may now cost $20M to rebuild, and then must be insured for $20M. 3. Increased Premiums: Premiums from the reinsurance market have increased substantially and this increase is passed on to the insurance carrier, then ultimately your insurance policy. As losses across the country and around the world keep increasing, all insurance premiums will increase.

4. Nuclear Verdicts and Litigation Financing: Large jury awards and hedge funds backing litigation are causing general liability and umbrella premiums to increase. You cannot watch TV today without seeing 2-3 commercials a day advising you to sue your insurance company.

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So, what will happen in 2025 and beyond? While some aspects of the hard market are subsiding, challenges remain from social inflation, increases in crime, and increases in catastrophic events. We are faced with reduced carrier appetites and stricter underwriting that does not seem to get any better.

What can you do to face these challenges in the insurance market? Be sure to communicate to your association exactly what they are facing. Be mindful of your budget and projections for the future cost of insurance. We cannot predict the future with normal rate increases, much less what the premiums will be if your insurance is cancelled.

Invest in the maintenance and upkeep of the property. Try to prevent water claims, replace the roofs as needed and keep up with scheduled preventative maintenance - make it a priority! Being able to present your community to the insurance company in the best possible light is imperative.

You can do this by keeping maintenance up to date and not having to file any claims.

Work as a team with your board and insurance agent.

While it is a challenging landscape, a collaborative and proactive approach can help navigate these rising costs.

Written by: Connie Phillips, CIC, EBP, CIRMS Connie Phillips Insurance cpi@insurance-financial.net

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• When does the Association have to get involved?

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• When to call an attorney Did you Know? Should you have known?

Talk about gray area! Good News! You don’t have to navigate alone. Join us for an interactive morning learning best practices for scenarios you face on the day to day.

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Support the Ronald McDonald House of Maryland

At our upcoming breakfast seminar, join The Membership Engagement Committee in supporting the incredible work of the Ronald McDonald House of Maryland by participating in our Pop Tab Fundraiser Contest! Here's how you can get involved:

Why Pop Tabs?

The Ronald McDonald House of Maryland provides a “home away from home” for families with critically ill children receiving care at local hospitals.

Pop tabs from aluminum cans are recycled to generate funds that help offset the cost of operating the house and supporting these families.

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Breakfast Seminars: March 19th

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Join experts in the industry focusing on the importance of efficient cost saving preventive maintenance techniques, communication, and organizational tools as well as meticulous record keeping ensuring optimal operations.

Attendees will learn strategies to develop and implement proactive maintenance schedules, improve team communication for better coordination, and maintain accurate records for compliance and performance tracking.

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Turning your biggest headache into your

Lakes and ponds captivate us due to our innate attraction to water, making them popular focal points in HOAs and residential communities. Unfortunately, weeds, algae, muck, and erosion can make your waterbody noticeable for the wrong reasons, potentially leading to complaints, safety hazards, infrastructure damage, and a bruised reputation.

Healthy waterbodies contribute to happy communities and managing them should never be a headache.

Nutrient remediation Nutrient remediation can help communities achieve cleaner water that’s less hospitable to weeds and algae.

Several eco-friendly products are available to remove excess nutrients from both the water column and sediments, leading to long-lasting improvements in water quality. To recommend the right solution, experts assess waterbody size, function, and degree of water movement.

For most communities, the ideal waterbody is balanced, functional, and beautiful—and achieving this trifecta can be challenging. However, proactive, environmentallyresponsible management solutions can help stakeholders amplify its benefits and maximize the value that it adds to their property.

Biologicals Biological bacteria help make the decomposition of nutrient-rich bottom muck more efficient, which can help alleviate foul odors, improve water clarity, and prevent imbalances. More importantly, depth and volume may be restored as muck decomposes, reducing flood risks and allowing stakeholders to prolong the need for physical removal via dredging, which most communities need at least a decade to budget for.

Promoting Ecological Balance Nuisance weed and algae growth, bottom muck, and foul odors may signify nutrient imbalances in the water.

Excess nutrients can enter the water through runoff from construction sites, fertilized lawns and gardens, agricultural land, dog parks, or polluted areas. Water quality imbalances jeopardize the health of aquatic ecosystems and can create prime conditions for cyanobacteria (blue-green algae), which produce toxins that are harmful to humans and potentially deadly to wildlife, livestock, and dogs.

If water quality testing reveals significant imbalances, several eco-friendly solutions are available to help counteract and prevent them.

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Dissolved oxygen Dissolved oxygen (DO) aids bacteria in the breakdown of muck and is crucial to support aquatic life. DO-rich waterbodies often provide fantastic fishing and beautiful views. However, DO can become depleted due to high temperatures, abundant sunlight, or stagnation.

Submersed aerators are one of the more common solutions to promote DO, but other new technologies are showing promise by producing higher DO concentrations with longer-lasting results.

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Promoting Functionality One of the most important functions of waterbodies is the collection of water during rainstorms. Failure to do so can result in dangerous consequences like flooding in the community. It’s important to conduct regular inspections to help stakeholders identify potential impediments and develop a plan to repair or restore them.

Shoreline restoration Erosion is natural, but it can be accelerated by human activities. Beyond being an eyesore, eroded shorelines can collapse and injure residents, guests, or landscapers, leading to potential lawsuits. Professionals utilize bioengineering techniques to rebuild eroded shorelines by filling geotextile mesh with sediment, shaping it to natural contours, and anchoring it securely. Native vegetation or sod is then planted over the material, creating a living shoreline that restores waterfront land, helps improve water quality and enhances property values.

Muck removal Eroded sediment progresses into muck that may clog stormwater equipment, reduce depth, and impede drainage. During storms, floodwater can damage building foundations, roads, and other infrastructure. Muck and debris removal are key to preventing this. A hydro-rake, similar to a floating backhoe, can restore depth to areas with high sediment accumulation. This may help prolong or prevent the need for more costly dredging, allowing communities to divert funds to more urgent projects.

Promoting Beauty While naturally breathtaking, lakes and ponds can be enhanced through color, movement, and lighting to fulfill different aesthetic needs. Goals can vary significantly among stakeholders, and a wide range of options are available to customize waterbodies of all shapes and sizes.

Fountains Often placed in high visibility areas like community entrances, fountains provide eye-catching beauty and intrigue that may make a community more desirable to new residents and help increase property values. With intricate water patterns, graceful silhouettes, and nighttime lighting elements, they can be highly customized.

Fountains also provide added benefits of circulation and adding oxygen near the surface of the water.

Vegetative buffers Though native vegetation is primarily recommended to help stabilize shorelines and prevent erosion, they can also serve as a beautiful accent by framing a waterbody with colorful plants and flowers. Moreover, buffer vegetation helps filter stormwater runoff, reducing the influx of excess nutrients and promoting clean water that is less prone to weeds and algae.

Pond dye Few things are as beautiful as the reflection of a sunset on glistening water. For communities that wish to maintain a vibrant look throughout the day, eco-friendly pond dyes are a great option. Customizable shades of blue can create a welcoming, pristine appearance while still looking natural. Pond dyes may also help limit the penetration of sunlight, slowing the process of photosynthesis and the subsequent weed and algae growth and DO depletion.

Overseeing a waterbody may seem like a blessing and a curse at times. As aquatic experts, we view it as an amazing opportunity to not only improve the appearance and value of a property, but most importantly, enhance lives. By focusing on proactive, sustainable management strategies, you can better sidestep the headaches and instead help your community enjoy the long-term financial, physical, and spiritual rewards.

Written by: SOLitude Lake Management

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Are you aware of Maryland’s Building Energy Performance Standards (BEPS)? Our next publication will explain the legal implications of the standards and penalties for non-conformance. In the meantime, here are the facts and a link to learn more to ensure your community complies with the regulation.

Multifamily residential, public, and commercial properties over 35,000 square feet.

Building Energy Performance Standards (BEPS) is a requirement under the Climate Solutions Now Act of 2022. The goal is to have covered buildings achieve net-zero direct greenhouse gas emissions by 2040.

A building’s energy use must be tracked in the Energy Star Portfolio Manager and reported to the state annually for public disclosure, and the building must meet long-term site energy use intensity performance standards. Energy Benchmarking data must be reported annually by June 1.

June 1st annual energy benchmarking deadline beginning in 2025, with third party benchmark verification due in 2026 and every 5 years thereafter. BEPS mandates will begin in 2030.

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Getting Ready for Spring

TIPS FOR HOAS AND HOMEOWNERS Spring is just around the corner! As we get further away from the chill of Winter, it’s time to look ahead to the warmer months. This is the perfect time for HOAs and homeowners to start preparing for the months ahead. Spring brings new growth, fresh starts, and an opportunity to tackle those lingering maintenance tasks. Here are some tips to help communities and individual homeowners get ready for the season.

FOR HOAS: COMMUNITY-WIDE READINESS 1. Landscaping Cleanup. Winter can leave common areas looking a little rough around the edges. Coordinate the following services with your landscaper: • Remove trash/debris, fallen branches, and any leftover leaves from common ground • Inspect trees for dead branches (these pose as safety hazards and are unhealthy for the tree).

• Trim trees and bushes, especially those encroaching on walkways or diminishing line of sight.

• Schedule mulching, aerating, and fertilizing.

• Inspect Storm Water Management Ponds and schedule any necessary services to the mechanical systems that often get clogged.

2. Inspect Common Areas. Spring is a great time to evaluate the condition of amenities and shared spaces.

• Playgrounds: check for loose bolts, worn-out parts, or damage. Have a Playground Inspection Company visit for in-depth examination and repairs.

• Clubhouses and pools: contact your pool management company to schedule a deep clean, inspect for leaks, and ensure equipment is in working order. Most pool companies have a list of Spring readiness items they follow.

• Parking lots and sidewalks: look for cracks, potholes, or uneven surfaces caused by winter weather. Now is the perfect time to get that parking lot sealed and re-striped.

• Benches and other outside furniture: check for any cracking or severely weathered surfaces and arrange to replace anything beyond repair.

• Power washing: schedule annual cleaning of any entrance monuments, clubhouse structures, sidewalks, and pool decks.

3. Plan Ahead for Projects. Spring is usually the busiest season for contractors. Does your HOA have major projects planned (like repainting, roofing, or road work)? Book contractors now to avoid delays. You may also get a discounted price if booked during the cold weather months.

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4. Communicate with Residents. Send a spring update to homeowners. This could include reminders about:

4. Declutter and Deep Clean. Clearing clutter is essential to maintaining a clean and organized community.

• Lawn care expectations (e.g., mowing, weed control)

• Declutter your garage, closets, and storage areas.

• Upcoming events like spring clean-ups or community garage sales

• Deep clean your windows, carpets, and curtains to let the fresh air and sunlight in.

• Maintenance deadlines, such as exterior home repairs or pressure washing • Spring cleanup guidelines, including specific landscaping or exterior standards

For Homeowners: Getting Your Property Spring-Ready 1. Tidy Up Your Yard. Our yards take a beating over the winter. Refresh it by: • Raking up leftover leaves and debris • Pruning shrubs and trimming back overgrown branches • Planting flowers (after the last frost) or adding fresh mulch to brighten up your landscape 2. Check Your Exterior. Inspect your home’s exterior; pay attention to: • Roof: look for missing shingles or potential leaks.

• Gutters: clear out leaves and debris to ensure proper drainage.

• Siding: clean siding free of any mold, algae, or dirt.

• Paint: touch up any peeling or faded areas to protect siding.

• Donate or dispose of items you no longer need.

Bonus: Eco-Friendly Spring Prep Spring is also a great time to go green! HOAs and homeowners alike can embrace sustainable practices: • Encourage native plants in landscaping to save water and support local wildlife.

• Consider installing rain barrels for irrigation (check if these are permitted in your HOA).

• Host a community recycling drive for items like old electronics, paint, or hazardous materials.

Spring cleanup is all about coming together to make our community look great, feel safe, and boost property values.

When the HOA board and homeowners team up, the whole process can be smooth and even fun. A clean and vibrant neighborhood isn’t just about looks—it creates a sense of pride and sets the stage for an awesome year ahead!

Written by: Steffanie Nollie, CMCA, AMS Portfolio Community Manager, Community Management Corporation, Select Community Services, Associa Companies snollie@cmc-management.com

3. Outdoor Items. Make sure everything is running smoothly before spring activities begin: • Sprinkler systems: check for broken sprinkler heads or leaks.

• Outdoor lighting: replace bulbs and clean fixtures.

• Decks and patios: sweep, power wash, and reseal if necessary.

• Submit any requests for exterior improvements or modifications well in advance.

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Not a Crystal Ball THE DISCRETIONARY NATURE OF RESERVE STUDIES Reserve studies have much to say about the future, from project timing and cost to funding levels and balances. While this information is useful, insightful, and as accurate as possible, reserve studies are not and never will be a crystal ball. And though boards and managers may wish they had such a crystal ball; the discretionary and flexible nature of reserve studies can prove beneficial in many scenarios.

The Community Associations Institute’s Reserve Study Standards do not present a minimum cost threshold for a component’s inclusion as either a reserve or operating expense. Certain components such as roofs, streets, pools, and other capital-intensive items will always fall within the reserve expense threshold, however, where do components like landscaping, trees, or even playground mulch fall? In a large-scale HOA spanning numerous neighborhoods where landscaping may take up a large percentage of the budget annually, it might make sense to also include a reserve expense. But, for a condominium or smaller HOA, landscaping may be a cheaper endeavor classified as only an operating expense.

The threshold for what is assumed to be a reserve expense or operating expense is not consistent between reserve study providers and will always be determined on a case-by-case basis, as it will align with each association’s unique budget and preferences. While this threshold is flexible, it is not an estimate and should be determined alongside a reserve study professional with experience in capital reserve budgets and life cycle cost analyses.

When a reserve study is compiled, providers should include a section detailing the items under this threshold – for example, mulch in a playground. Say an association has a large playground whose mulch is supplemented annually for $1,000. This would be assumed to be an operating expense and called out as such in the reserve study report.

However, the association might prefer a full replacement of the mulch every three years, totaling $3,000. This association can work with their provider to tweak the reserve study, re-classifying the mulch as a reserve expense and funding it as such.

Similarly, reserve study providers do not typically include landscaping as a reserve expense for multiple reasons.

Landscaping is unpredictable, whereas the useful lives of typical reserve components such as roofs, pavement, and heating systems can be accurately estimated. Arborists can estimate how long a tree or bush will last, but because it is living, breathing, and easily damaged, these predictions are fluid and can change quickly due to many reasons, including the elements.

Additionally, reserve studies project the cost of replacements using similar materials. For example, asphalt will be replaced with asphalt, so the project pricing estimates are predictable. With landscaping, many communities do not just replace – they add, upgrade, and beautify. Also, because of board turnover, the current board may choose to spend W INT E R/S P RING 20 2 5

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a certain amount on landscaping, while the next board may want to spend more. Because boards spend discretionary amounts on landscaping, it is usually not feasible to predict project pricing for the near or long-term future.

There is one caveat, however. Large associations or communities with many landscaping elements expend money on trimming, pruning, or upkeep on a predictable, periodic schedule. If an association has a solid grasp on the cost and frequency of this upkeep, such as knowing they spend $50,000 on pruning every 3-5 years, this can be worked into the reserve study.

Like the classification of a component as a reserve or operating expense, project timing is not set in stone, but again, associations should consult with their reserve study provider before making changes, especially if the project is safetyrelated or structural in nature. If an association has a roof replacement slated for the coming year but would PROVIDING EXCEPTIONAL COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION MANAGEMENT SINCE 1991 like to defer the project as they feel their roofs are in decent shape, this is an option, but conditionally. First, a roofing contractor should be consulted to inspect the roofs and determine if D.H. BADER MANAGEMENT project deferment is a safe option. If this association gets the OK from the MAINTAINING roofing specialist to defer the roof YOUR COMMUNITY replacement, they should work with their reserve study provider to alter LIKE IT’S OUR OWN the capital replacement schedule and funding plan accordingly.

However, just because a project is deferred does not mean the funds already set aside for the project should be spent elsewhere. While the timing of a project can be subject to change, funding for the project cannot. The funds set aside in reserves for any major capital project should always remain available, regardless of when the project will occur.

From comprehensive HOA and condo management to secure financial services and on-demand maintenance, our full suite of services will help your association thrive.

Each association is unique, so their reserve study, the threshold for component inclusion, and project timing will be too. The discretionary nature of reserve studies allows for the study to ebb and flow, just as the association does. After all, reserve studies are many things, but a crystal ball is not one of them.

Written by: Michelle Baldry Regional Executive Director, PE, PRA, RS, Reserve Advisors mbaldry@reserveadvisors.com

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For information on how to receive CAI professional credentials visit https://www. caionline.org/LearningCenter/credentials/Pages/default.aspx For information on how to receive your CMCA visit https://www.camicb.org/

LARGE-SCALE MANAGER (LSM) This specialist designation is designed to allow PCAM designees to specialize within their profession. CAI acknowledges the unique aspects of being a large-scale community manager and is providing an opportunity for recognition and continuing education in order for you to expand your career opportunities.

PROFESSIONAL COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION MANAGER (PCAM) The pinnacle of community association management. The PCAM designation is the highest professional recognition available nationwide to managers who specialize in community association management. Earn your PCAM and join the elite—the select—the best.

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COLLEGE OF COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION LAWYERS (CCAL) Since 1994, CAI has recognized excellence in the practice of community association law through the College of Community Association Lawyers. The approximately 200 CCAL fellows distinguish themselves by advancing community association law for the betterment of the communities they serve.

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CHESAPEAKE REGION CHAPTER OF CAI 2025 EVENTS AND MEETINGS JANUARY

JULY

THURSDAY, JANUARY 16TH

THURSDAY, JULY 10TH

VIRTUAL

KURTZ’S BEACH, PASADENA, MD

FEBRUARY

AUGUST

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 19TH

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 13TH

CHARTING YOUR COURSE

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MARCH WEDNESDAY, MARCH 19TH

BREAKFAST SEMINAR

TEN OAKS BALLROOM, CLARKSVILLE, MD

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DELMARVA BREAKFAST SEMINAR

PRINCESS ROYALE, OCEAN CITY, MD TUESDAY, APRIL 22ND

HOMEOWNER WEBINAR

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MANAGER HUDDLE

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CHAPTER BOARD AND COMMITTEE MEETINGS Board of Directors First Wednesday at 9:00 am Communications Committee Fourth Tuesday at 10:00 am Delmarva Committee Third Wednesday at 9:00 am Education Committee Second Thursday at 9:30 am Expo Committee Third Tuesday at 9:30 am Golf Committee Second Friday at 9:30 am Legislative Committee Second Thursday at 4:00 pm Magazine Committee First Thursday at 10:00 am Membership Engagement Committee Third Tuesday at 3:00 pm Social Committee Fourth Thursday at 10:00 am

HOMEOWNER WEBINAR

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