Newsletter column: Year-end financials, cell towers, new capital projects, and more

The following appeared in the spring 2023 Ocean Pines Report quarterly newsletter: /documents/20124/91011/OP_newsletter_v55no3_web.pdf/48fe5b2d-9750-8028-7c2a-eba214908eba

 
Financial updates

The unaudited numbers for April were positive to budget by approximately $36,000. The favorability was largely driven by a strong showing from Golf operations and maintenance, which were positive to budget by $52,000.

Overall, the Association finished the fiscal year ahead of budget projections by just over $1.15 million.

Over 90 percent of the favorability is driven by revenue growth, because across the board we have a very good product. When you have a good product and the weather agrees with us, we're going to make those good numbers.

The preliminary estimate for May, which was the start of a new fiscal year, was $150,000 positive to budget.

 
Cell service improvements coming

The Association reached out to Verizon about the poor cell phone reception in Ocean Pines, and upon request provided a list of problem areas, as well as phone numbers of volunteers who agreed to help the company explore the issue.

Verizon representatives said there are plans to upgrade existing equipment in the Berlin and Ocean Pines area next year, but they will try to get the work done this year. The company is also looking into the possibility of additional cell towers.

An Ocean Pines workgroup will continue to work with Verizon and provide updates.

 
Marina gas dock

The new Marina gas dock is open seven days a week, from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. All five gas pumps are up and running.

The Association received a few questions about the decision to go with an aluminum dock. The new dock meets all necessary safety requirements and is more durable than similar wooden structures.

Installation was done following standards of the American Boat and Yacht Council and the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers/National Electrical Contractors Association. The dock was inspected and certified by the contractor and the State of Maryland.

Many marinas have aluminum docks, as they require less maintenance, have a long life, and are cooler to the touch and more environmentally friendly. No paint or other chemicals go into the bay while power washing.  

In short, you have a product that will last way longer – and is more efficient and effective – than the wooden docks.

Also at the Marina, Dockmaster Ron Fisher has introduced a new line of merchandise in the shop, including fishing gear and bait, shirts and hats, and soda, ice cream and other snacks.

 
Proposed capital projects

Capital projects in consideration for the next fiscal-year budget include playground upgrades at Bainbridge Park, a toll area for the boat launches, a new irrigation system at the Golf Club, a new Racquet Center building, a pavilion at the Veterans Memorial, and a new south fire station.

Each project will be reviewed by the Budget and Finance Committee, and each will be vetted through benchmarks.

Specifically on Bainbridge Park, we formed a work group to study replacing the existing structure with a new ADA compliant one. A survey on the playground was released on June 15, and preplanning discussions occurred with two vendors. The Association is exploring grants to help at least partially fund the project.

 
Maintenance update

Maintenance continues to be a high priority, with work being split between Ocean Pines Public Works and outside contractors.

Recently completed initiatives include painting the Clubhouse and Yacht Club bathrooms, and painting the Yacht Club bar area. A new baby swing was added at Bridgewater Playground, and the Manklin Meadows Playground entrance was updated to make it more ADA accessible.

Ongoing initiatives include maintenance of Ocean Pines walking trails, general landscaping, and the addition of a second fountain at the North Gate.

 
Golf updates

The Golf Club recently hosted several major tournaments, including the 2023 Men's Club Championship on June 24-25, and the annual Ravens Roost Tournament on June 2. The Ravens Roost event raised funds for scholarships for local high school students.

Business at the course and the pro shop continue to be robust, and Golf Director Bob Beckleman is a big reason why. Since Bob's been here, every month has been a big increase from the prior year – all record breaking.

Golf Superintendent Justin Hartshorne and his staff also deserve a lot of credit for keeping the course well maintained.

The course is in excellent shape, and the place is packed.

 
Racquet Center updates

The Racquet Center has also been busy, holding a Davis Cup tennis event on June 10 and a "Pickle Bowl" on June 23.

Staff held an open house on May 27, and platform tennis clinics are scheduled each Saturday in June.

 
Recreation and Parks events

The Veterans Memorial recently hosted field trips for Worcester County fifth graders, an annual Memorial Day ceremony, and a car show sponsored by Kiwanis.

Coming up, the Recreation and Parks Department will host Family Fun Nights on Wednesdays, June 21-Aug. 23, at the Yacht Club Pool from 6-8 p.m. Concerts in the Park return on Thursdays, June 22 to Aug. 24, at White Horse Park from 7-9 p.m.

 
Rules reminder

As a public service announcement, we’re asking residents to keep in mind that all dogs must be on a leash – even on Ocean Pines property – per county law. Dog owners should also clean up after their pets.

Additionally, per Ocean Pines guidelines, trash cans must be stored away from the curb on the evening after trash is collected.

 
CPI, work orders, and other questions

The Compliance, Permit and Inspections (CPI) Department saw 73 new violations opened in May, including 56 for maintenance, trash or high grass. During the same period, 48 cases were closed. In total, 167 remain open.

The department also saw 121 new work orders opened in May and 117 work orders closed. As of May 31, 110 remain open, most of which are related to drainage items.

The [email protected] email for general questions received 156 questions in May. Most, 84, were general questions. Thirty-five were about amenities, 24 were about Public Works issues, and 13 were for CPI.

For additional questions, email [email protected] any time or call 410-641-7717 during normal business hours.