I attended a community meeting on Sept. 12, at the Highlands Club House, that discussed the proposed dues increase for the Property Owners Association in Bella Vista. The meeting was conducted by Tom Judson, COO of the POA. This letter summarizes my takeaways from the meeting.
There is a lot of misinformation being presented primarily through social media.
POA golf, like golf for most private clubs, is not designed to be a profit center. Part of our dues goes to support golf. The objective is to be efficient and provide a good value between fees charged and dues paid. Outside players in slow time slots, like mid-afternoon and after 10 a.m. on weekends, is one way to hold down fees and dues contribution.
Improvements to restaurants were and are not expected to generate profits for the first three years. The BV Bar and Grill and Lakepoint Event Operations are ahead of expectations. Lakepoint Restaurant Operations has lagged behind. Adjustments have been made to increase business.
Feasibility of proposed improvements, including the Community Center, was based on conservative projections by knowledgeable financial people. Management is willing to meet individually if someone has a particular question or concern.
The proposed new Community Center will be available only to POA members and their guests.
The board of directors determined it is legal for the board to vote for the lots owned by the POA and are leaning toward doing so. There was a lot of discussion with a number of individuals suggesting the board not cast votes for those lots. My view is the board voted to present this assessment increase to the membership, indicating its belief an assessment increase is needed for the improvements and continued maintenance of facilities. To not vote the POA lots would be saying the board does not fully support this increase and it is not needed.
A number of people have negative opinions and attitudes toward the board based on past experiences. I have trouble understanding that since four of the nine board members were just elected. Board members present seemed to be more than willing to listen to member thoughts, opinions and concerns.
If you have not done so, I would encourage you to attend the community meeting on Sept. 25 at Riordan Hall -- 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Make your decision based on facts, not rumors and false information.
Jack Doyle
Bella Vista
Editorial on 09/19/2018