Announcement

'A Community Effort' - A message from the Association President

Tuesday, July 7, 2020

The following column was part of the summer 2020 Ocean Pines Report quarterly newsletter:

Doug Parks

My favorite part of the year is summer and while it officially started as of June 20, unfortunately things are going to be a little different this season. The COVID- 19 pandemic has affected all of us in one way or another. Compliance with the state mandates from Governor Hogan has required us to change the day-to- day operations of Ocean Pines including its amenities and services. My Board colleagues and I, along with the

General Manager and his team, have been working to manage our community during these unprecedented times. Fortunately, the members of our Ocean Pines community have an understanding of the difficult situation we face and have made adjustments as well. Social distancing, face masks and gatherings of less than 10 people are currently a part of our everyday routines. But it’s not all bad. A good example of the resiliency of our members is popularity of take-out meals at the Yacht Club that have been a welcomed service to the community.

Things are beginning to return to somewhat normal as racquet sports, and pools have opened up with capacity restrictions. Playgrounds and parks have reopened as well. Outdoor seating on the Yacht Club patio has been ex- tremely well received. I’ve seen a willingness within the community to change our approach to things as we move towards a new normal. Hopefully we will be able to put the global pandemic and associated concerns behind us sooner rather than later. Regardless of how long that will take, the safety and health of our community, families and friends are the most important considerations.

From a project perspective, the clubhouse has been completed and came in under budget. The cart barn has also been completed and was also under budget. The addition to the administration building to accommodate our police department is on budget and due for completion in mid-August. From a financial and business perspective we closed out our fiscal year with a surplus for the first time in several years. We will still have a challenge going into the fiscal 2021-2022 budget year due to the pandemic, but the Board and the GM will continue to monitor and manage our finances within the requirements of state regulations and work to ensure we are extremely prudent regarding expenses during the current fiscal year.

Summer is here and I propose we try to enjoy it as much as possible given the circumstances of the world we live in today. Being respectful of others and understanding different points of view go a long way in getting through these times. I wish everyone a safe, healthy and happy summer season with family and friends.

Announcement

'A Community Effort' - A message from the Association President

Doug Parks

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