Viola shines spotlight on OPA teamwork

(Feb. 22, 2021) General Manager John Viola, on Saturday, highlighted staff teamwork during his monthly report to the Board. 

“I’ve said this before and I’ll say it again … our team is fully engaged [and] is operating on all cylinders,” he said.  

He extensively featured Public Works’ efforts on recent drainage projects, including on a Board-approved initiative to use a new process on drainage pipes along Ocean Parkway. 

According to Viola, the new process would help address aged and rusted-out piping in a manner than is cheaper and less disruptive than prior methods used in the community. The Association budgeted $375,000 for the work, but the new “cured-in-place pipe” (CIPP) process is expected to cost just $207,000.  

Viola also credited the Finance team for work done on the fiscal year 2021-2022 budget, and he said Director of Finance and Operational Logistics Steve Phillips put in some last-minute work to help reduce assessments ahead of the Board’s vote to approve the budget. 

He said Recreation and Parks would oversee repaving on the White Horse Park parking lot during the spring, once asphalt plants reopen. The department will also handle improvements to the Robin Hood Park playground. 

Marina maintenance will occur from now through April 1, with board replacements expected to wrap about a month before the season starts. 

Viola said the Golf maintenance team continues to work on greens, fairways and trees near holes two and three. The Association sent an email update to Golf members last week, which also included details about a new handicap program and new hours at the Clubhouse Grille.  

Ocean Pines also made improvements at the Yacht Club, including new wallpapering and painting in the ballroom and foyer, and new carpeting, lighting and painting in the bridal suite.  

Viola said the county reviewed plans for new Racquet Sports courts, with permitting expected to follow shortly. 

Turning to financials, Viola the Association closed out January roughly flat when compared to budget estimates, with revenues off by $6,000, but expenses finishing about $7,000 better than expectations.  

Year to date, Ocean Pines is ahead of budget by about $1.147 million. Viola said the current forecast for the close of the fiscal year is a positive balance of around $650,000.  

Following his report, Association Vice President Colette Horn thanked Viola for promoting teamwork within the Association, and especially for highlighting workers who normally fly under the radar.  

Viola said one of his favorite words is “balance,” and that he’s encouraged both department heads and their subordinates to step up on key projects. 

“I’m trying to get everybody involved, especially the number twos … [and] they are doing a tremendous job,” he said. “We’re certainly seeing it in the results. A lot is getting done.” 

To view video of the full General Manager’s Report, visit https://youtu.be/ff05F_4GQUY?t=1649.