Task Force looks at capital projects

With reserves dwindling and new projects suggested, the POA formed a five-year financial task force in January with goals of assessing the current financial state, considering upcoming capital projects and analyzing both existing and possibly new sources of revenue. At its most recent meeting, the task force looked at capital projects.

The maintenance and upkeep of current facilities are already included in the POA budget, Judson explained. The profit and loss statement includes most of those expenses but not new projects. Among the new projects that Judson believes should be considered is a new community center. The cost of the center can't be estimated until planning is further along. Two meetings are scheduled this month to give members a chance to input their ideas for a new community center.

Other projects come with estimated costs attached, including a new dog park for the east side at about $75,000; four additional outdoor pickleball courts at a cost of $105,000; plus renovation of the racketball courts at Branchwood which are also used by pickleball players for $23,000; new playground equipment for Riordan Hall, Blowing Springs Park, Tanyard Creek Park and Loch Lomond Park for a total of $365,000.

Renovation of the tennis courts will be spread out over three years with a cost of $150,000 for two courts each year.

A total of $44,000 to add kayak launching sites on four lakes is included. A launch site is a plastic stand that is used to keep the kayak stable while the passenger climbs on and off, he explained.

The costs to turn the Berksdale golf course into a park are another unknown, but Judson added a $500,000 placeholder in his capital plan. He hopes to find partners to share the cost of the new park, but the POA will need to contribute as well.

The board is looking for a golf course architectural firm to undertake a renovation of the Country Club and make it more flood resistant. Since the scope of the project hasn't been determined, there's no way to estimate the cost. Judson suggested a $1.5 million placeholder be a part of the plan.

Also, he asked for $250,000 each year to cover small projects that are not listed.

At next month's meeting, scheduled for Monday, August 6, at 3 p.m., the task force will review its work on the capital plan and the revenue and expense suggestions discussed at earlier meetings. A recommendation for the board will be completed at that meeting.