A survey was conducted concerning a proposed paver project in Gables Estates. The survey was put to the Gables Estates membership on January 20, 2010. The deadline for the survey results were closed on February 24, 2010.
The results are as follows:
Members in favor of the paver project : 66
Members opposed to the paver project : 44
Members who did not participate : 83
Of the surveys submitted 34% were in favor of the paver project
An aerial computer rendition of the paver project proposed for Leucadendra Drive, Arvida Parkway, and Casaurina Concourse (Clicking each photo will enlarge the photo)
Sunday January 31, 2010
Save the date !
Gables Estates Block Party - CARNIVAL RIO STYLE
The Gables Estates 2nd Annual Holiday Boat Parade of Lights was held on Decemeber 12, 2009. The Boat parade was a great success as fun and holiday cheer were had by all. The participants in the parade and those on shore admiring the lighted vessels thoroughly enjoyed the parade. The winner was chosen by a panel of judges and the trophy was awarded to the winner by Santa Claus himself. This year’s winner was the vessel “Patent Pending” owned and operated by Kevin and Kim Smith. To see photographs of the 2nd Annual Holiday Boat Parade click HERE
Holiday 2009 Newsletter
December 3, 2009
Dear Friends and Neighbors,
Holiday Gifts
Although the Board does give a holiday gift to each Wackenhut Guard based on performance, rank and time served, we also suggest that each member generously give a holiday gift to the Wackenhut Guards. We ask that you make your check out to Gables Estates Club, Inc., you may drop your contribution off, in a sealed envelope, at either gatehouse or mail directly to Kathleen. The Board will be happy to make the distribution for you. This year there are fifteen (15) full time guards serving Gables Estates and one handyman . Each officer is listed on the back of this newsletter along with the time he has served at Gables Estates. Please do not give checks or money to an individual to distribute, other than Kathleen. Your contributions to the security staff will be logged in the Club’s ledger and dispersed to each employee based on his performance, rank and time served with Gables Estates. Your contribution is greatly welcomed and appreciated. So Pleaseremember your security staff this holiday season.
2nd Annual Holiday Boat Parade of Lights
It’s not too late, all Boats and members are welcomed to participate in the “decorated boats parade” which will take place on Saturday, December 12th at 6:00 p.m. Please contact Kathleen for the details.
22nd Annual Club Block Party
Invitations will go out shortly for our Annual Club Block Party which has been planned for the afternoon of Sunday, January 31, 2010 from 2:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. This year’s theme will be “Carnaval Rio Style “. Suggestions and volunteers are welcomed. Please contact Kathleen or Mrs. Audrey Ross if you’d like to help.
Date to Remember
Just a reminder, in case it slipped your mind, January 31, 2010 all Maintenance fees must be received in full (6,000. per lot) in order to avoid a lien being placed on your property. If you have any questions regarding the status of your bill, please call Kathleen.
Thanks
Once again, our thanks go out to Mrs. Sissy Ruffe for decorating the gatehouses for the Holiday Season and working so diligently as the Chair of Beautification. As always, your Board of Governors and Kathleen, would like to extend to you and yours a very Safe and Happy Seasons Greetings. Best Wishes to you and yours for a healthy, prosperous New Year.
Sincerely,
Rene Guerra
President
2009 Gables Estates Club Wackenhut Security Staff
Officer’s Name / Time Served at Gables Estates Starting Date
Captain Roberto Urra / thirteen years & nine months @ site /
ten & 12 ½ years as Supervisor 03/96
Lieutenant Juan Castillo / nineteen years & 2 months 10/90
Sergeant Joseph Smith / Sixteen years & ten months 2/93
Sergeant William Hammett / fifteen years and four months 8/94
Officer Antonio Romero / sixteen years and four months 8/93
Officer Juan Morales/ six years and six months 6/03
Officer Jason Webster / six years and four months 8/03
Officer Reinier Barrios / three years & four months 08/06
Officer Juan Vera / three years & two months 10/06
Officer Bayardo Bojorge / two year & eight months 4/07
Officer Robert Dorris / two year & five months 7/07
Officer Peter Linares / one year & 10 months 2/08
Officer Dale Kosak / one year & two months 10/08
Officer Edgar Medina / ten months 02/09
Officer Pierre Beaton / three months 09/09
Gables Estates Club Handyman:
Jose Orozco / three years & eleven months 01/06
WHEN: Saturday December 12, 2009, 6PM
WHO: Gables Estates Yacht Club
Your Commodore Daniel Canel cordially invites you and your family and friends to come and celebrate with your fellow members beginning at 6PM the 2nd Annual Holiday Boat Parade of Lights. The parade will start from the main canal (marked “A” on your map) and travel through the Gables Estates canals. Each participating boat will receive a yacht club burgee. Votes will be cast to determine the winning entry for the best decorated boat and the first holiday boat parade of lights award will be given. Please bring your holiday spirit and play your best holiday music for everyone to enjoy. You can register by filling out the entry form below and returning it to the Arvida Parkway gatehouse or fax it to (305) 246-5288.
2nd Annual Gables Estates Yacht Club Holiday Boat Parade of Lights
Entry Form
NAME:________________________________________
PHONE:_______________________________________
ADDRESS:______________________________________
E-MAIL:_______________________________________
TYPE AND LENGTH OF BOAT:_______________________
This is my entry form for participation in the Gables Estates Yacht Club’s 2nd Annual Holiday Parade of Lights
A G E N D A
Wednesday, December 2nd , 2009 @
7:00 PM @ Fairchild Gardens, Classroom “A”
1) BALLOT COUNTING PROTOCOL & ANNOUNCEMENT OF RESULTS - Attorney Laura Russo
2)APPROVE MINUTES: - President Rene Guerra
a) Board of Governors - 10/20/09
b) Annual Membership Meeting - October 29, 2009 (as circulated to the general membership for membership approval at the next Annual Meeting in April)
3)ELECTION OF NEW OFFICERS: (due to ballot results)- Full Board
a) President
b) Vice President/s
i.
ii.
c) Treasurer
d) Secretary
e) Executive Committee - 5 Members = President, Vice President, 2nd Vice President,
Secretary and Treasurer
4) VARIANCES REQUESTED:
Bill Box, Chairman of the Architectural Review Committee
a) Appeal Review - 8545 Old Cutler Road - Mr. and Mrs. Nicolas Finazzo
b) Variance - 50 Casuarina Concourse - Mr. and Mrs. Armando Codina
5) SECURITY:
Meeting with Wackenhut Manageent - Daniel Canel, Chairman
6) CODE AND COMPLIANCE COMMITTEE MODIFICATION
President Rene Guerra
7) BOARD DISCUSSION - President Rene Guerra
a) Casuarina Concourse Overhead Cables Converted to Underground Cables
b) Canal Dredging Due Diligence
c) Look into complaint of bad odor on Leucadendra Drive with City of Coral Gables Public Works Department
Ten minute recess
8) NEW/OLD BUSINESS:
a) Suggestions and Complaints - Dr. Ricardo Pines, 8805 Arvida Drive
b) General Membership
THE ANNUAL MEETING OF THE MEMBERSHIP OF GABLES ESTATES CLUB, INC., TOOK PLACE AT FAIRCHILD TROPICAL GARDEN, “BALLROOM”, 10901 OLD CUTLER ROAD, MIAMI, FLORIDA AT 7:30 P.M. THURSDAY, OCTOBER 29, 2009.
WELCOME & INTRODUCTION
MR. RENE GUERRA, PRESIDENT, CALLED THE MEETING TO ORDER AND WELCOMED THOSE PRESENT. MR. GUERRA INTRODUCED THOSE BOARD MEMBERS PRESENT: MR. JOSE BARED, VICE PRESIDENT; MR. ANTHONY ARGIZ, TREASURER; MR. BILL BOX, SECRETARY; DIRECTORS; MRS. TRISH BELL, MRS. BUNNY BASTIAN , MR. DANIEL CANEL AND MRS. CRISTINA MIRANDA. MRS. SISSY RUFFE WAS UNABLE TO ATTEND.
THE PRESIDENT WELCOMED & INTRODUCED MR. AND MRS. NAMIKI, CONSUL GENERAL OF JAPAN TO THE MEETING. THE MEMBERSHIP WELCOMED THEM WITH A WARM APPLAUSE.
THE PRESIDENT INTRODUCED THE HONORABLE MAYOR DON SLESNICK AND MR. SLESNICK ADDRESSED THE MEMBERSHIP. THE MAYOR STATED THERE HAD BEEN MANY CHALLENGES BOTH FOR THE MAYOR’S OFFICE AND THE CLUB. HE PLEDGE TO CONTINUE TO WORK WITH THE BOARD AND PLEDGED THAT HIS DOOR IS ALWAYS OPEN AND HIS HEART IS IN THE RIGHT PLACE. HE STATED HE WILL CONTINUE TO WORK ON ISSUES WITH THE OUR BOARD SUCH AS THE TRASH COLLECTION AND REPORTED THAT THE SECOND SEAWITCH WAS ON ORDER FROM ENGLAND AT A COST OF $250,000. WHICH WILL BE USED TO HELP CLEAN THE DEBRIS FROM THE CANALS. THE MAYOR RECEIVED A HEARTY APPLAUSE FROM THE MEMBERSHIP AND DEPARTED THE MEETING.
PROXY REPORT
MR. CANAL, CHAIR OF THE PROXY COMMITTEE GAVE THE FOLLOWING REPORT:
THERE ARE 193 VOTING INTERESTS IN GABLES ESTATES, EVERYONE OWNING A LOT IN GABLES ESTATES IS ENTITLED TO VOTE, IN ACCORDANCE WITH FLORIDA STATUE 617.305 (a). FLORIDA STATUTES 617.305 (1) PROVIDES THAT 30% OF THE VOTING INTEREST SHALL CONSTITUTE A QUORUM. 30% x 192 = 57.90 VOTING INTERESTS SHALL CONSTITUTE A QUORUM. THE NUMBER OF INTERESTS VOTING BY PROXY IS 42. THE NUMBER OF INTERESTS VOTING IN PERSON IS 31. THE TOTAL NUMBER VOTING IS 73. THEREFORE, WE HAVE A LEGAL QUORUM. SIGNED: MR. DANIEL CANEL, CHAIR.
MINUTES - SEMI ANNUAL MINUTES, APRIL 22, 2009 (AS CIRCULATED TO THE MEMBERSHIP)
MR. GUERRA ASKED FOR A MOTION TO BE MADE THAT THE READING OF THE MINUTES OF THE SEMI ANNUAL MEETING OF APRIL 22, 2009 BE WAIVED AND BE ADOPTED AS CIRCULATED TO THE MEMBERSHIP. A MOTION WAS SO MOVED BY MR. BOX AND SECONDED BY MRS. BELL. ALL WERE IN FAVOR AND THE MOTION CARRIED.
NOMINATING COMMITTEE:
THE CHAIR GAVE THE FOLLOWING REPORT: THE NOMINATING COMMITTEE MET AT THE HOME OF THE BARBARA KELLY, 640 ARVIDA PARKWAY, ON THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 10, 2009 AT 7:30 P.M. THOSE SERVING ON THE NOMINATING COMMITTEE WERE: CHAIR; MRS. BARBARA KELLY, MR. SALVADOR JURADO, DR. ALBERT TANO, DR. SANFORD RAKOFSKY, AND MRS. IRKA CHOATE.
NAMES OF PERSONS NOMINATED:
1. MRS. TRISH BELL
2. MRS. CRISTINA MIRANDA
3. MRS. BUNNY BASTIAN
4. MR. ANTONY ARGIZ
5.
ALL FOUR MEMBERS HAVE AGREED TO SERVE ON THE BOARD FOR A TWO YEAR TERM. THE CHAIR ASKED FOR ANY ADDITIONAL NOMINATIONS FROM THE FLOOR? MR. EUGENE CONESE NOMINATED MR. ANTHONY MORGENTHAU, WHOM AGREED TO SERVE. UPON HEARING NO ADDITIONAL NOMINATIONS THE NOMINATIONS WERE CLOSED.
THE ADMINISTRATOR STATED MEMBERS WILL RECEIVE THEIR WRITTEN BALLOTS IN THE MAIL WITHIN SEVEN DAYS AS PER THE CLUB’S BY-LAWS SECTION 12.
ADMISSION COMMITTEE
MRS. BELL, STATED SHE WAS DELIGHTED TO SEE SO MANY MEMBERS ATTENDING TONIGHT’S MEETING. CHAIR READ AND WELCOMED THE FOLLOWING NEW MEMBERS APPROVED SINCE THE CLUB’S LAST SEMI ANNUAL MEETING, SIX MONTHS AGO:
MR. AND MRS. RICHARD LUNEBURG PF 455 CASUARINA CONCOURSE
MR. AND MRS. SERAFIN GARCIA - 631 ARVIDA PARKWAY
MR. AND MRS. GIRALDO LEYVA - 100 CASUARINA CONCOURSE
MR. AND MRS. RENE DE JESUS VALVERDE - 460 LEUCADENDRA DRIVE
MR. AND MRS. BENJAMIN LEON III - 9100 ARVIDA DRIVE
PRESIDENT’S OVERVIEW OF CLUB AFFAIRS
THE PRESIDENT STATED THE FOLLOWING ACCOMPLISHMENTS TOOK PLACE IN 2008:
• PHASE II OF CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT ARVIDA, LEUCADENDRA & CASUARINA CONCOURSE BRIDGE LIGHTING COMPLETE
• PHASE II OF CAPITAL IMPROVEMENTS THROUGHOUT THE COMMUNITY HEDGE INSTALLATION COMPLETE.
• PHASE II OF CAPITAL IMPROVEMENTS - 600 BRIDGE PLANTING COMPLETE
• CLUB SECURITY ENHANCED WITH ADDITIONAL WATERWAY CAMERAS AND ENTRANCE CAMERAS CONVERTED TO COMCAST DLS FAST SPEED LINES.
• CONTINUE PROGRAM WITH OFF DUTY POLICE OFFICERS AS WELL AS WACKENHUT BIKE PATROL AND THE 2ND PATROL VEHICLE.
• FILED LIENS ON DELINQUENT MEMBERSHIPS
• BOARD VOTED TO INCREASE THE APPLICATION FEE TO $60,000.
• BOARD ESTABLISHED PRESIDENTIAL AWARD FOR OUTSTANDING SERVICE TO THE CLUB
• BOARD ESTABLISHED PIN CEREMONY FOR WACKENHUT SECURITY STAFF RECOGNITION
• BOARD MEMBERS MET WITH MAYOR SLESNICK ON BEHALF OF CLUB REGARDING THE BETTER REPRESENTATIVE OF THE CLUB BY THE CITY, CLEANING OF DEBRIS FROM OUR CANALS, INADEQUATE CANAL DEPTH, MAINTENANCE OF ROADS AND THE PURCHASE FROM THE CITY OF THE 2ND SEAWITCH TO CLEAN THE CANALS.
• PRESIDENT AND BOARD MEMBERS MET WITH THE NEW CITY MANAAGER PATRICK SALERNO REGARDING CLIPPING PILE PICK UP FOR FRIDAYS AND 25 YEAR AGREEMENT TO REIMBURSE CLUB UP TO $20,000. FOR LANDSCAPING MAINTENANCE
• MEMBERSHIP DIRECTORIES WITH REVISED CHARTER, BY-LAWS AND DECLARATION OF PROTECTIVE COVENENTS DELIVERED TO EVERY CLUB MEMBER.
• BY- LAWS WERE PASSED TO FORM CODE AND COMPLIANCE COMMITTEE WITH ABILITY TO FINE VIOLATORS.
• FIRST ANNUAL YACHT CLUB BOAT PARADE TOOK PLACE WITH FIRST PLACE AWARD AND PARTICIPATE AWARDS.
THE PRESIDENT STATED THE FOLLOWING ACCOMPLISHMENTS HAVE TAKEN PLACE OR WILL TAKE PLACE IN 2009:
• BOARD VOTED TO INCREASE THE ARCHITECTURAL FEE TO $750. PER VISIT TO COVER EXPENSES
• BOARD VOTED TO INCREASE THE TRANSFER FEE TO $5,000. PER TRANSFER
• BOARD HAS RESERVE OF $200,000. WHICH WILL BE USED FOR CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT FOR THE COMMUNITY.
• BOARD WILL REFUND $100,000. IN TOTAL TO THE CURRENT MEMBERSHIP IN GOOD STANDING FISCAL YEAR 2008/09.
• RENEGOTIATE WACKENHUT CONTRACT WITH SAVING APPROXIMATELY $80,000. PER YEAR & ACCEPT NEW LANDSCAPING CONTRACT SAVING $20,000. PER YEAR.
• CHANGE BY LAW TO HAVE ANNUAL MEETINGS IN MID NOVEMBER OF EACH YEAR.
• CHANGE BY LAW TO INCREASE ONE TIME VIOLATIONS OF CODE AND COMPLIANCE COMMITTEE FINES TO MAXIMUM OF $10,000.
• HOLIDAY BONUS GIVEN BY BOARD TO BE BASED ON PERFORMANCE AND LONGEVITY.
• BOARD WORKING WITH CITY OF CORAL GABLES TO CREATE SAFETY OF CIRCLE AT LEUCADENDRA DRIVE AND ARVIDA PARKWAY - AWAITING CITY’S FINDINGS.
• NO INCREASES IN MAINTENANCE FEES GOING INTO THE SEVENTH YEAR AT $6,000. PER LOT
• CREATED $500,000. RESERVE FUND
• SALES IN BUDGET PROJECTED AT THREE AND THIS GOALS HAS ALREADY BEEN MET IN FIRST MONTH OF FISCAL YEAR.
• REDUCED BUDGET FROM LAST YEAR BY 11%
DR. PINES OF 8805 ARVIDA DRIVE RAISED HIS OBJECTION TO THE AMENDMENT TO INCREASE THE CODE AND COMPLIANCE FINE FROM $1,000. TO $10,000. DISCUSSION TOOK PLACE. MR. GUERRA STATED HE WILL TAKE DR. PINES OBJECTION TO THE BOARD FOR CONSIDERATION.
MRS. ROSS ASKED FOR CLARIFICATION OF THE CODE AND COMPLIANCE BY- LAW INCLUDING LICENSEES SUCH AS REALTORS BEING INCLUDED IN THE LANGUAGE SINCE THEY ARE NOT RESPONSIBLE FOR THE PROPERTY, MR. GUERRA EXPLAINED THAT ALL OWNERS ARE RESPONSIBLE FOR ENSURING THAT ANY AGENT OR EMPLOYEE, INCLUDING REALTORS ARE RESPONSIBLE FOR THE HOME IN THE OWNER’S ABSENCE COMPLIES WITH THE STANDARDS SET FORTH IN CORAL GABLES CODE AND IN THESE BY LAWS AND ANY RULES AND REGULATIONS ADOPTED BY THE BOARD OF GOVERNORS. HE STRESSED IT IS THE PROPERTY OWNERS RESPONSIBILITY TO ASSURE STANDARDS ARE MET AND ONLY THE PROPERTY OWNERS CAN BE FINED. THE PRESIDENT ADDED THAT NON BOARD MEMBERS SERVE ON THE CODE AND COMPLIANCE COMMITTEE AND THEY ARE REQUIRED TO HOLD HEARINGS ALLOWING PROPERTY OWNERS TO APPEAL THEIR DECISIONS. MR. FINKLE COMPLIMENTED THE BOARD FOR INCREASING THE VIOLATION FINE SINCE IN THE PAST SEVERAL HOUSES ON CASUARINA CONCOURSE HAVE LOOKED DERELICT AND HE HOPES THE COMMITTEE WILL NOT HESITATE WHEN NEEDED TO IMPOSE THIS FINE AS A MEANS OF PROTECTING THE PROPERTY VALUES WITHIN GABLES ESTATES.
MR. EUGENE CONESE OF 650 LEUCADENDRA DRIVE REQUESTED TO ADDRESS THE MEMBERSHIP SINCE HIS WIFE WAS ILL AND HE WOULD NEED TO LEAVE THE MEETING. MR. CONESE STATED HIS GENERAL IMPRESSION OVER THE LAST FIFTEEN YEARS WAS THAT THE CLUB NEEDED A POLITICAL ACTION COMMITTEE. MOST MEMBERS HAVE THEIR CHILDREN IN PRIVATE SCHOOLS AND TAXES FOR THE SCHOOLS WAS A GREAT BURDEN. HE SUGGESTION THE CLUB’S ACTION COMMITTEE JOIN OTHER ACTIONS COMMITTEES OF SURROUNDING NEIGHBORHOODS AND HE OPPOSES SPENDING THE MONEY ON PAVERS AND FEELS THE OVERHEAD CABLES SHOULD BE PLACED UNDERGROUND FOR SAFETY REASONS. HE STATED THIS ITEM IS VERY ESSENTIAL AND HE WOULD RECOMMEND THAT THIS MATTER GO OUT TO THE MEMBERSHIP FOR A VOTE
DR. PINES ALSO REQUESTED TO ADDRESS THE MEMBERSHIP SINCE HE TOO HAD A SICK WIFE AT HOME AND NEEDED TO LEAVE THE MEETING EARLY. DR. PINES STATED HE HAD WRITTEN MR. GUERRA REGARDING AN ACCOUNTING MISTAKE HIS ACCOUNTANT HAD FOUND WITH THE BOOKS. MR. ARGIZ STATED HE CHECKED THE BOOKS AND AGREED A CLERICAL ERROR HAD OCCURRED. MR. GUERRA HAD INVITED DR. PINES TO SERVE ON THE BUDGET COMMITTEE. MR. FINKLE STATED HE HAD ATTENDED THE BUDGET COMMITTEE MEETING HELD AT DR. PINES HOME AND THE ERROR WAS DISCUSSED AND CLARIFICATION WAS MADE AT THAT TIME THAT IT WAS AN ERROR IN BOOK KEEPING. THE ADMINISTRATOR EXPLAINED THAT SHE HAD APOLOGIZED TO DR. PINES AT THE TIME AND WILL AGAIN THAT SHE SIMPLY MADE IN INPUT ERROR WHICH WAS CORRECTED. DR. PINES STATED HE WAS NOT IN AGREEMENT WITH THE SECURITY EXPENDITURES OF $800,000. FOR GUARD SERVICE NOR THE $80,000 FOR OFF DUTY POLICE. HE STATED THE MEMBERS OF GABLES ESTATES PAY 20% OF THE CITY OF CORAL GABLES REAL ESTATE TAXES AND HE FEELS THE COMMUNITY SHOULD GET THEIR SECURITY FREE. DR. PINES ALSO OBJECTED TO THE CAPITAL IMPROVEMENTS MADE TO LANDSCAPING WHICH HE STATED WAS OVER $800,000. HE STATED THE BOARD MUST REDUCE IT’S EXPENSES AND MEMBERS MUST CHECK ON WHAT THE BOARD IS DOING AND STOP EXCESSIVE EXPENSES. THE PRESIDENT STATED THERE ARE 193 LOTS IN GABLES ESTATES AND COLLECTIVELY WE PAID $4.5 MILLION IN REAL ESTATES TAXES TO THE CITY OF CORAL GABLES.
FINANCIAL REPORT
MR. ARGIZ, TREASURER INVITED THE MEMBERSHIP TO REVIEW THE FINANCIAL STATEMENT FROM THE CLUB’S ACCOUNTANTS CATARINEAU AND GIVENS, P.A. HE NOTED THAT THE FIRM PREFORMED AN AUDIT (SEE ATTACHED) DISCUSSION TOOK PLACE. MR. BARED MOVED TO APPROVE THE AUDITOR’S REPORT. MRS. BELL SECONDED THE MOTION AND ALL WERE IN FAVOR. THE TREASURER ENCOURAGED THE MEMBERSHIP TO REVIEW THE PROPOSED BUDGET (SEE ATTACHED) APPROVED BY THE BOARD AT THEIR BOARD MEETING HELD ON OCTOBER 20, 2009. HE ASKED IF THERE WERE ANY QUESTION. NONE WERE PRESENTED. MR. BARED MOVED TO APPROVE THE PROPOSED BUDGET AS PRESENTED AND MRS. BELL SECONDED THE MOTION AND ALL WERE IN FAVOR.
MRS. BELL REQUESTED TO TAKE AN ITEM OUT OF ORDER SINCE THERE HAD BEEN A GREAT DEAL OF CONTROVERSY SURROUNDING THE PAVING OF PORTIONS OF THE STREETS. SHE STATED THAT SINCE WE ARE ALL FRIENDS AND NEIGHBORS AND THE BOARD IS TRYING TO DO THE VERY BEST AND IT HAS COME TO THEIR ATTENTION THAT THERE IS A DEGREE OF UNHAPPINESS WITH THE PROPOSED PAVER PROJECT SHE BELIEVES THE MISINFORMATION OR LACK OF INFORMATION REGARDING THE PAVERS NEEDS TO BE ADDRESSED. MRS. BELL STATED THE ITEMS REGARDING OVERHEAD CABLES BEING PLACED UNDERGROUND AND THE DREDGING OF THE CANALS WERE SEPARATE ISSUES AND WOULD NEED TO BE ADDRESS AS SUCH. MRS. BELL MOVED TO TABLE THESE MATTERS FOR ANOTHER DATE UNTIL THE MEMBERSHIP CAN BE WELL INFORMED REGARDING THE PAVERS, CABLES AND DREDGING. MRS. BELL STATED THE BOARD WILL PROVIDE A QUESTIONNAIRE FOR THE MEMBERS TO FILL OUT AND ALLOW THE NEIGHBORS AND BOARD TO HAVE A BETTER OPPORTUNITY TO SEE HOW EVERYONE FEELS AND ACT ACCORDINGLY. MR. BOX SECONDED THE MOTION AND ALL WERE IN FAVOR.
MR. JEFFREY WECHSLER OF 485 LEUCADENDRA DRIVE STATED HIS CONCERNS REGARDING THE INFRASTRUCTURE, MAINLY THE SEWAGE PROBLEMS ON LEUCADENDRA DRIVE. THE PRESIDENT STATED THIS MATTER HAD BEEN ADDRESSED WITH THE CITY AND HE AGREES THAT HE WILL MAKE THIS A PRIORITY ISSUE.
BEAUTIFICATION COMMITTEE
THE PRESIDENT ADVISED THE MEMBERSHIP THAT MRS. RUFFE, CHAIR OF THE BEAUTIFICATION COMMITTEE WAS UNABLE TO ATTEND TONIGHT’S MEETING. HE STATED THE COMPLETION OF THE CLIPPING PILE HEDGES AND 600 LEUCADENDRA DRIVE BRIDGE WERE COMPLETED.
SECURITY COMMITTEE
MR. CANEL, THE NEWLY APPOINTED CHAIR STATED HE WANTED TO COMMEND MRS. MIRANDA FOR THE WONDERFUL JOB SHE HAD DONE OVER THE LAST COUPLE OF YEARS CHAIRING THE SECURITY COMMITTEE. MRS. MIRANDA RECEIVED A HEARTY APPLAUSE. MR. CANEL STATED HE HAD MET WITH CAPTAIN URRA, SITE SUPERVISOR OF THE WACKENHUT SECURITY STAFF AND WILL MEET WITH THE OTHER OFFICERS. MR. CANELS WILL KEEP THE CLUB’S MONETARY CONCERNS IN MIND AS HE WORKS TO IMPROVE THE CLUB’S SECURITY. A COMMITTEE OF THREE BOARD MEMBERS WILL BE MEETING WITH WACKENHUT MANAGEMENT TO RENEGOIATE THE WACKENHUT CONTRACT IN ORDER TO REDUCE COSTS. MR. CANEL STATED ONE OF OUR CLUB MEMBERS, MR. NICOLAS JUNCADELLA, A SECURITY EXPERT, WILL WORK CLOSELY WITH HIS COMMITTEE AND MAKE RECOMMENDATIONS TO THE BOARD TO ADDRESS SECURITY ISSUES. MR. CANEL ASKED FOR FEEDBACK FROM THE MEMBERSHIP REGARDING SECURITY AND STATED PLEASE CALL KATHLEEN FOR HIS PERSONAL EMAIL ADDRESS TO COMMUNICATE WITH HIM DIRECTLY.
YACHT CLUB REPORT:
MR. CANEL STATED THE 2ND ANNUAL HOLIDAY PARADE WILL TAKE PLACE ON DECEMBER 12TH. MORE DETAILS WILL BE SENT TO THE MEMBERSHIP VIA MAIL.
THE PRESIDENT STATED THAT THE BOARD MEMBERS HAVE MET WITH COMMISSIONERS HOWEVER THE CLUB NEEDS MORE REPRESENTATION FROM THE CLUB AND HE INVITED THE MEMBERSHIP TO GET MORE INVOLVED AT THE CLUB AND CITY LEVEL.
THE PRESIDENT STATED ALBERTO DELGADO’S PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT PAVED ALL OF ARVIDA PARKWAY AND ARVIDA DRIVE AND HAVE COMMITTED TO PAVING ALL OF LEUCADENDRA AND CASUARINA WITHIN THE NEXT TWO YEARS. THE PRESIDENT ADDED THE BOARD WILL ADDRESS THE CONCERNS WITH THE PAVERS AND CLARIFY THE SITUATION, LISTEN TO WHAT THE MEMBERS HAVE TO SAY AND IF NEED BE, TAKE THE MATTER TO A VOTE.
MRS. KELLY STATED HER CONCERN REGARDING WHAT WILL TAKE PLACE ONCE THE MEMBERSHIP HAS THE INFORMATION PROVIDED BY THE BOARD. SHE SAID THE BUDGET MUST BE A GUIDING FORCE FOR THE BOARD AND CAPITAL IMPROVEMENTS DO NOT APPEAR ON THE BUDGET ND IS CONCERNED ABOUT THE PROCESS. MR. KELLY STATED LONG RANGE PROJECTS SHOULD BE INCLUDED IN THE BUDGET AND THE MEMBERSHIP SHOULD BE INVOLVED AND FEEL COMFORTABLE WITH LARGE DECISIONS INVOLVING MEMBERSHIP VOTES.
MR. PEREZ OF 50 LEUCADENDRA DRIVE STATED HE WAS HAPPY TO BE BACK AND WANTED TO CONGRATULATE THE BOARD IN NOT INCREASING THE MAINTENANCE FEES IN SEVEN YEARS. HE SAID THE BOARD DID A GREAT JOB.
ANNOUNCEMENTS:
MRS. KELLY STATED THE HALLOWEEN HAYRIDE AND PARTY IS TAKING PLACE TOMORROW STARTING AT 6:00 P.M. AT THE CUL-DE-SAC IN FRONT OF 369 LEUCADENDRA AND EVERYONE IS INVITED.
ANNUAL BLOCK PARTY:
MRS. ROSS, STATED THAT THE ANNUAL BLOCK PARTY IS SCHEDULED FOR SUNDAY, JANUARY 31, 2010. FESTIVITIES WILL BEGIN AT 2:00 P.M. AT THE 369 LEUCADENDRA DRIVE ISLAND. THE THEME WILL BE “CARNAVAL RIO STYLE ”. MRS. ROSS INVITED ALL MEMBERS INTERESTED IN SERVING ON THE BLOCK PARTY COMMITTEE TO PLEASE LET HER KNOW. MRS. ROSS ENCOURAGED MEMBERS TO ATTEND AND BRING THEIR CHILDREN AND GRANDCHILDREN TO THIS COMMUNITY EVENT. SHE STRESSED THAT THIS IS AN OPPORTUNITY TO MEET YOUR NEIGHBORS AND FRIENDS AND ENJOY THE GREAT WEATHER THAT TIME OF YEAR.
OLD BUSINESS/NEW BUSINESS:
MR. BARED STATED THAT IN THE NEXT CITY ELECTION, THREE COMMISSIONERS TERMS EXPIRE. HE STRESSED THE MEMBERSHIP MUST GET OUT AND VOTE. VERY IMPORTANT TO SHOW UNITY BY VOTING AS A COMMUNITY FOR WHICHEVER CANDIDATE YOU PREFER JUST AS LONG AS YOU VOTE.
ADJOURNMENT
THERE BEING NO FURTHER BUSINESS, A MOTION TO ADJOURN THE MEETING WAS MADE AND SECONDED. ALL WERE IN FAVOR. THE MEETING WAS ADJOURNED AT 9:15 P.M.
Board of Governors MeetingThe Board of Governors met at Fairchild Gardens, Classroom “A”, on Tuesday, October 20, 2009 at 7:00 p.m. Present were: President; Rene Guerra, 1st Vice President; Sissy Ruffe, 2nd Vice President; Jose Bared , Treasurer; Anthony Argiz, Secretary; Bill Box. Directors: Trish Bell, Daniel Canel and Bunny Bastian. Mrs. Irka Choate of 480 Arvida Parkway, Mr. Nicholas Kelly and Mrs. Barbara Kelly of 640 Arvida Parkway were in attendance.
Draft Minutes
October 20, 2009
Opening of Meeting and Introduction of Guest Speaker: Alberto Delgado, Public Works Director
LEUCADENDRA DRIVE / ARVIDA PARKWAY TRAFFIC CALMING CIRCLE
The President welcomed those present to the meeting. He introduced Mr. Alberto Delgado, Public Works Director to the meeting. He thanked Mr. Delgado for resurfacing the entire roads of Arvida Parkway and Arvida Drive instead of just a small portion of the 100 block of Arvida Parkway. He stated this was a vast improvement and the membership greatly appreciated it. He also stated that Leucadendra Drive and Casuarina Concourse will be resurfaced over the next two years as promised by Mr. Delgado. Mr. Guerra stated the Proposed Capital Improvement Project will not include the enhancement of the Traffic Calming Circle at this time do to safety reasons. The President asked Mr. Delgado to address the issue regarding the safety of the design of the Leucadendra Drive / Arvida Parkway Traffic Calming Circle. Mr. Delgado informed those present that each Traffic Calming Circle the City has installed required some type of adjustment. In the case of the Gables Estates Traffic Calming Circle his department is looking into using “splitters” islands to assure that cars use the proper use as the circle was intended. Mr. Delgado stated that vehicles must slow down to the 15 MPH speed limit as this is what the circle was design to do, slow down traffic. City will make adjustments to the circle and the final decision may be to remove the circle if that is what the Association requests. Mr. Delgado added that the circle can have up lights to help with better visibility at night.
Mrs. Kelly stated she was concern about the safety of the Traffic Calming Circle prior to its installation in 2006. She felt that there was a constant sense there would be a head on collision and now she feels the problem is basically worse than before the circle was installed. She had recommended that a medium be installed instead of the circle to force the proper turn onto Leucadendra Drive. Mrs. Kelly stressed that the circle has created a major intersection in front of her house and that her wall mirrors the design of the circle. If delineations are installed, they will block her driveway and she feels it is imperative that her family be informed each step of this process to protect their interest. Mrs. Ruffe stated the traffic calming circle has slowed down traffic going to the far end of Arvida Parkway. Lengthy discussion took place. Mr. Bared explained the circle is there now and the professionals from the City Public Works Department are looking into making this circle safe with other alternatives. He suggest the Board afford them this opportunity to fix the issues and wait for their solution. If a solution cannot be found, the Board can vote to have the circle removed. The Board was in agreement with this. Mr. Guerra stated his personal commitment to Mrs. Kelly was that she would be informed and a part of the process regarding decisions pertaining to the circle.
PROPOSED CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT EXPENDITURE FOR PAVERS FOR CASUARINA CONCOURSE’S FIVE (5) TRAFFIC CALMING ISLANDS & TWO (2) ARVIDA PARKWAY AND ONE (1) LEUCADENDRA DRIVE BRIDGES AND CURBING AND GUTTERS FOR MUNICIPAL DOCK AREA.
The President explained the Beautification Committee’s recommendation to pave with Chicago Cement Brick Pavers the five traffic calming islands on Casuarina Concourse, the two bridges on Arvida Parkway, the first bridge on Leucadendra Drive; and the municipal dock area with curbing and gutters only. Mr. Delgado showed those present a couple of samples of the design layout of the brick pavers which could be used. Mr. Delgado recommended using the bands around the pavers and with a pattern to control movement of the pavers and minimize maintenance costs. Mrs. Bastian objected to the idea of the pavers and she felt the membership should vote on this issue and raised the concern of the bumpiness of the road. Mr. Kelly stated his concern was the cost of the pavers as well as the noise factor and felt neighbors should have the right to vote on this matter. Mr. Box stated the membership voted the Board in place and he feels issues should not go to the membership, but the Board must make these decisions. Mr. Delgado stated the cement Chicago brick paver is a very thick paver which is packed down and serves as a noise deterrent. This would not be the same cobblestone type brick as used at our entrances as this brick is a very flat brick and has not created a noise issue elsewhere. Mr. Guerra stated the Board has historically felt the reserve fund should have $500,000. and in the recent past the Club had between $350,000. To $450,000. in the reserve fund. The Board has taken measures like increasing the application fee to $60,000. and reducing spending whenever possible and as a result the Club now has $850,000. Two hundred fifty thousand has been place in IBF and Community Bank in one year CDs. Mr. Guerra proposed returning $100,000. in total to the current membership in “Good Standing” as part of the Boards fiscal responsibility. The President stated this would allow up to $350,000. for Capital Improvements which would increase the value of the properties in Gables Estates. Mr. Bared stated Mrs. Ruffe, as Chair of the Beautification Committee, has done a wonderful job enhancing the aesthetics our community. Mr. Bared said he feels under her charge our area will continue to be greatly improved. Mr. Kelly questions the cost of the proposed Capital Improvement . Mr. Guerra stated the cost would be $200,000. Mr. Bared moved to approve the Beautification Committee’s request for $200,000. to pave with Chicago Cement Brick Pavers the five traffic calming islands on Casuarina Concourse, the two bridges on Arvida Parkway, the first bridge on Leucadendra Drive; and the municipal dock area with curbing and gutters only. Mr. Canel second the motion and all were in favor.
PROPOSED BUDGET
The Treasurer, Mr. Argiz, reviewed the proposed budget with the Board, see attached. Discussion took place. Mrs. Bell moved to approve the proposed budget with attachments to present to the membership at the Annual Meeting, October 29,2009Mr. Box second the motion and all were in favor. Mr. Bared moved that all Club funds must be Federal Insured and no account shall exceed $250,000. The Administrator informed the Board the Mr. Guerra would be meeting with a representative to go over the CDARS program with a built in Ladder to address the Club’s financial needs this coming week. She explained that Mr. Guerra would come back to the Board for a final vote. All were in agreement.
CODE AND COMPLIANCE COMMITTEE
The President stated he felt Mrs. Ruffe as Chair of the Beautification Committee should oversee the Code and Compliance Committee. All were in agreement.
CHILDREN’S PARK
The President asked for instructions from the Board whether or not to pursue a Children’s Park to be located within Gables Estates Club. The President explained this would be a City Park with no parking allowed and the City would assume all liabilities and upkeep. The Club could go into a matching funds venture with the City. Mrs. Bastian suggested surveying the immediate neighbors as a first step to see if they were in favor of this approach or not. All were in agreement.
APPOINT SECURITY CHAIR
The President stated the Mrs. Miranda has agreed to continue to serve on the Board however time did not permit her to continue to serve as Chair of the Security Committee and therefore she handed in her resignation. The President wished to appoint Mr. Canel as Chair of the Security Committee and Mr. Bared so moved and Mr. Argiz second the motion and all were in favor.
CHANGE LANDSCAPE PROVIDERS
The Chair of Beautification recommended accepting the bid from Golden Sun Tree Farms for $72,999. per year starting on November 1st, 2009. Mr. Argiz so moved and Mrs. Bell second the motion. All were in favor.
NOTICE OF ANNUAL MEETING
The Board was reminded to attend the Annual Meeting on Thursday, October 29th at 7:30 p.m. @ Fairchild Gardens, “Ballroom” and the invited guest speaker was Mayor Donald Slesnick. Mrs. Kelly suggested a flyer should go out to the membership advising that the Mayor would be the guest speaker. All were in agreement.
NEW BUSINESS
Mr. Bared discussed the lack of proper markers on the waterway entrance into Gables Estates. Captain Urra explained the Pat Burns from the City had replaced one marker and was still working on the others as they had to be ordered and should be installed within the next month.
ADJOURNMENT
As no other business came before the Board, Mr. Box moved to adjourn the meeting. Mr. Bared second the motion and all were in favor. The meeting adjourned at 8:45 p.m
A G E N D A
ANNUAL MEETING
October 29, 2009 @ 7:30 p.m.
1) WELCOME GENERAL MEMBERSHIP & INTRODUCTION OF BOARD MEMBERS :
- RENE GUERRA, PRESIDENT
2) REPORT ON PROXIES FOR QUORUM: - DANIEL CANEL, CHAIR
3) MINUTES: RENE GUERRA, PRESIDENT
SEMI ANNUAL MINUTES, APRIL 22, 2009 (as circulated to the membership)
4) NOMINATIONS TO THE BOARD OF GOVERNORS: - BARBARA KELLY, CHAIR
a) Nominating Committee Report
b) Nominations from the Floor
5) NEW MEMBERS: - TRISH BELL, CHAIR
New Memberships as of the Semi Annual Meeting:
a) Mr. and Mrs. Richard Luneburg- 455 Casuarina Concourse
b) Mr. and Mrs. Serafin Garcia - 631 Arvida Parkway
c) Mr. and Mrs. Giraldo Leyva - 100 Casuarina Concourse
d) Mr. and Mrs. Rene de Jesus Valverde - 460 Leucadendra Drive
6) PRESIDENT’S ACCOMPLISHED 08/09:
CHANGES & OBJECTIVE FOR 2009/10
- RENE GUERRA, PRESIDENT
7) FINANCIAL REPORT: - ANTHONY ARGIZ, TREASURER
a) Review Auditor’s Report, Receipts & Disbursements
b) Review Proposed Budget for fiscal year 2009/10 (presented for membership approval)
8) BEAUTIFICATION COMMITTEE REPORT: - SISSY RUFFE, CHAIR
a) Completion of all clipping pile hedges throughout Community
b) Completion of 600 Leucadendra Drive bridge planting to match existing plantings
c) Compliance and Code Committee will report findings to the Chair of the Beautification Committee
9) SECURITY REPORT: - CRISTINA MIRANDA, CHAIR
a) Briefing from Captain Roberto Urra, Wackenhut Site Supervisor
b) Briefing from Officer Michael Hearns, City of Coral Gables Police
10) YACHT CLUB REPORT: - DANIEL CANEL, COMMODORE
11) OLD BUSINESS / NEW BUSINESS: - RENE GUERRA, PRESIDENT
a) Need Community Involvement For Better Representation @ City Level
b) Road Paving Commitment from Director of Public Works Department, Alberto Delgado
12) ANNOUNCEMENTS:
a) CHILDRENS’ CLUB: HALLOWEEN HAYRIDE & PARTY - PATRICIA CRUZ, CHAIR
b) BLOCK PARTY: - AUDREY ROSS, CHAIR
13) ELECT NEW OFFICERS AND COMMITTEE MEMBERS: - FULL BOARD - PROVIDED NO
NOMINATIONS ARE MADE FROM THE FLOOR - (IF NOMINATIONS FROM THE FLOOR,
ELECTION PROCESS WILL TAKE PLACE)
14) CLOSING/ADJOURNMENT :- RENE GUERRA, PRESIDENT